Let us help you make plans to explore Texas. Below we share our top tips and highlights from our travels to cities and great places in The Lone Star state of Texas. Check out our resources to plan your future travel adventures.
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Introduction to Texas
Visiting Texas offers an experience as big and diverse as the state itself, where every region feels like a destination in its own right. From vibrant cities filled with culture, music, and world-class dining to wide-open landscapes that stretch for miles, Texas delivers a unique blend of energy and authenticity.
There’s so much to explore, from strolling along the River Walk in San Antonio, exploring historic sites tied to the state’s independence, or taking in the creative pulse of Austin, there’s always something new to discover. For us, Texas has been a place where each visit reveals a different story—one shaped by its people, traditions, and unmistakable sense of pride.
On this page, you’ll find a collection of our firsthand experiences traveling throughout Texas, along with podcast episodes that bring those moments to life. We’ve explored destinations at our own pace, uncovering hidden gems, sampling local flavors, and capturing the spirit of each place along the way. Whether you’re planning your first trip or looking to go deeper on a return visit, our goal is to help you experience Texas not just as a destination, but as a series of memorable journeys worth savoring.
Our top podcasts on great places in Texas
Austin – Austin podcast
San Antonio – San Antonio Mission Trail and Excursions
San Antonio – The Alamo, Riverwalk, and more
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Visit Texas – Key Facts
- Second-largest state in the U.S. – Texas is massive, so distances between destinations can be long. Plan travel time accordingly.
- Major cities to explore – Highlights include Austin (live music capital), San Antonio (historic charm), Dallas (modern and cosmopolitan), and Houston (diverse and cultural).
- Famous for BBQ and Tex-Mex cuisine – Expect brisket, ribs, tacos, and bold flavors that define Texas food culture.
- Home to iconic landmarks – Don’t miss The Alamo, a symbol of Texas independence.
- Diverse landscapes – From deserts in Big Bend National Park to pine forests in East Texas and Gulf Coast beaches.
- Warm climate – Summers can be extremely hot, especially in central and southern regions—spring and fall are often the best times to visit.
- Strong cultural identity – Texas has a unique blend of Western, Mexican, and Southern influences reflected in its music, festivals, and traditions.
- No state income tax – While not directly a tourist perk, it contributes to the state’s economic environment and affordability in some areas.
- Popular for road trips – With wide highways and scenic routes, Texas is ideal for travelers exploring by car.
- Live music and festivals – Especially in Austin, where events like South by Southwest attract global attention.
- Sports culture is huge – From Friday night high school football to professional teams, sports are a big part of Texas life.
- Friendly, welcoming vibe – “Southern hospitality” is alive and well—visitors often comment on how welcoming locals are.
- Unique attractions – Think space exploration at Space Center Houston, historic missions, and quirky roadside stops.
- Shopping variety – From luxury malls to massive outlet centers and local artisan markets.
- Time zones – Mostly Central Time, but far West Texas (like El Paso) is in Mountain Time—something to keep in mind when planning.
Top Tour Books for Exploring Texas
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Travel Resources for Visiting Texas
Expedia – Our most used resource for flights, hotels, and rental cars. We recommend Expedia as a one-stop shop for making travel arrangements.
Omio – Book trains, buses, or flights across multiple destinations with a single platform. Compare routes, schedules, and prices on Omio.
Rent Cars with Discover Cars – Explore your destination with a rental car. Use Discover Cars to compare options from multiple providers, ensuring you find the best price and vehicle type to suit your travel needs.
Welcome Pickups offers convenient airport and port transfers, with professional drivers ensuring a smooth and hassle-free start to your trip. They also offer private drivers for personalized sightseeing tours, so you can explore destinations comfortably at your own pace.
Viator for Tours – Find curated tours from experienced local guides to make the most of your visit to a destination
Travel Insurance Master – Travel Insurance Master offers comprehensive travel insurance solutions, ensuring peace of mind with coverage for trip cancellations, medical emergencies, and lost luggage.