Texas is a massive state with an even bigger personality. From its wild reputation to its diverse geography, the Lone Star State offers a little bit of everything to visitors and residents alike.
While driving in Texas, it may feel overwhelming to figure out which locations are worth your visit. With so many different attractions to see, it can be challenging to decide where you should stop on your travels.
There may be a lot to see in the Lone Star State, but some spots outshine others. These are your must-see attractions in Texas.
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#1 – South Padre Island
When you picture Texas, you may not think of the beach, but South Padre Island rivals any notable seaside town you may already be familiar with. This hidden gem is situated on the Gulf of Mexico and offers soft, powdery sand and stunning, calm blue waters.
During the day, there are many fun activities to enjoy, such as paddle boarding, parasailing, and fishing. If you’re not one for excursions, the beach is perfect for lounging and soaking up the sun’s rays.
When the sun goes down, South Padre Island comes alive with its booming nightlife. Many local bars and restaurants stay open late to accommodate late-night festivities.
Whether you enjoy the daytime scene, fun nightlife, or both, South Padre Island is a must-see stop in the Lone Star State.
#2 – Big Bend National Park
There are few places in Texas more impressive for outdoor enthusiasts than Big Bend National Park. Situated on over 800,000 acres of land, this protected portion of the desert is home to more than 450 species of birds, 75 species of mammals, 56 species of reptiles, and 11 species of amphibians.
The park is home to mountains, canyons, and the Rio Grande — a beautiful river separating the U.S. from Mexico. You can choose to take in the stunning views of Big Bend National Park from your car, as there are many scenic roads available.
If you’re more inclined to enjoy the views on foot, there are countless hiking trails throughout the area. You can also opt to take in the scenery from a river raft on the Rio Grande, on horseback through the trails, or bike.
The park also offers camping if you’re interested in extending your stay longer than a day. However, if you’re not one for camping, there is only one lodging area within the park’s perimeter. So, you may have difficulty finding an available room.
No matter how you choose to enjoy the view in Big Bend National Park, it is undoubtedly worth your visit, making it a must-see stop in the Lone Star State.
#3 – The Alamo
While the Alamo isn’t a hidden gem to most people, it is a sight worth visiting if you find yourself in Texas. The building was built in the early 1700s, and its original purpose was as a chapel. It was eventually converted into a military fortress, and in 1836, the Alamo gained its notoriety.
For 13 days, 200 volunteers held off the Mexican armies hoping to overtake the fortress. While the battle’s outcome was not in the Texans’ favor, others never forgot their strength and resistance. Their bravery inspired others to fight for Texas’ freedom, and eventually, the Mexican armies were defeated.
Today, the Alamo is a public museum that opens its doors to visitors hoping to learn more about this incredible battle and show of resilience. The museum is home to artifacts from the war and a wealth of information on its history.
If you come during the right time of year, you may even be lucky enough to catch the historical reenactment put on by volunteers. For 13 days, there will be a number of events surrounding the area to commemorate the incredible battle.
The unbelievable history of the Alamo makes it a must-see stop when traveling through the Lone Star State.
#4 – Fort Worth Stockyards
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, Fort Worth Stockyards is a truly unique experience you can only find in Texas. The entire location is centered around the area’s history, as Fort Worth was the last stop for travelers before crossing the notorious Red River.
While visiting the Fort Worth Stockyards, you’ll find many of the businesses center their stores around the Wild West theme. The Stockyards in Fort Worth enjoy leaning into their heritage — from boot-making shops to Western-themed restaurants.
There are also rodeos, fiddling contests, and the infamous cattle drive, which takes place daily to enjoy while spending time at the Stockyards. If you’re hoping to brush up on the area’s history, you’ll be pleased to find multiple museums throughout the Fort Worth Stockyards filled with documents and artifacts.
If you want a one-of-a-kind experience during your travels through the Lone Star State, the Fort Worth Stockyards is a must-see spot.
#5 – San Antonio Riverwalk
One of the most stunning areas of Texas lies in the city of San Antonio. Here, you will find a beautiful 15-mile riverwalk filled with restaurants, shopping, and events.
There are three different districts within the Riverwalk, including the Downtown Reach, the Museum Reach, and the Mission Reach. You may enjoy exploring each as they all offer their own unique atmosphere and attractions.
One of the best ways to soak up all the Riverwalk’s sights is through a riverboat tour. You will enjoy a comfortable seat as you float down the San Antonio River. The cruises run daily and allow you to get the best view possible of this great area.
The Riverwalk is one of the most popular attractions in Texas, and for a good reason. The scenery, ambiance, and activities are why the San Antonio Riverwalk is a must-see spot in the Lone Star State.
The Best Spots to Stop in Texas
A state as large as Texas can leave visitors feeling overwhelmed. It can be challenging to narrow down which ones are worth the trip with so many attractions to see.
However, some locations stick out more than others. Spots like South Padre Island, Big Bend National Park, the Alamo, the Fort Worth Stockyards, and the San Antonio Riverwalk offer you an incredible experience during your time in the Lone Star State.
There’s also a must-drive spot in Texas, especially if you like driving fast but don’t want to get in trouble for doing it: Texas Highway 130 boasts the highest posted speed limit in America — 85 mph.
Whether you choose to stop at one — or all — of these fantastic locations, you won’t be disappointed by what they offer. That’s why they are must-see spots in Texas.
Alexandra Arcand writes and researches for the insurance comparison site, ExpertInsuranceReviews.com. She is a travel enthusiast who enjoys sharing her favorite locations with others.
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