Discover the 24 best tourist attractions in Texas, one of the most famous states in the United States.
1. Swimming in the Barton Springs Municipal Pool – Austin
Located in Zilker Park, the Barton Springs Municipal Pool is a natural pool whose water comes from underground springs. With crystal-clear waters and a constant temperature of 20°C to 23°C, it’s a great place to swim and relax at any time of the year.
It is open every day, from 5am to 10pm – however, on Thursdays, it usually closes between 9am and 7pm for cleaning. Children usually pay 3 dollars, while adults can pay between 5 and 9.
2. See the Reunion Tower – Dallas
The Reunion Tower is one of Dallas’ most recognizable landmarks. The 170m-high structure offers a panoramic view of the city and has a revolving restaurant at the top. Reservations for dinner there are recommended. Admission ranges from 10 to 40 dollars, depending on the age group.
- You can visit this and other attractions in the city with the Dallas CityPASS card, which allows you to save a lot.
3. Stroll through the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens – Dallas
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a 26,700-square-meter green space, ideal for peaceful strolls. With a variety of themed gardens and seasonal events, it’s a perfect place to appreciate the flora and enjoy outdoor activities. The space is open every day from 8am to 5pm.
4. Explore the Houston Museum of Natural Science – Houston
The Houston Museum of Natural Science is one of the most visited museums not only in Texas, but in the entire United States. It offers exhibitions on paleontology, astronomy, energy and much more – meaning they can be interesting for both adults and older children. The interactive exhibitions and the planetarium are unmissable highlights.
- If you like museums and are going to Houston, consider taking out a Houston Museum Pass, which entitles you to entry to the city’s best museums for up to 3 days.
5. See The Alamo ruins – San Antonio
The Alamo ruins are a historical symbol of Texas. This 1836 battle site, where a small group of Texans resisted the Mexican army, is a point of interest for anyone wishing to understand the state’s history.
6. Visit the Space Center – Houston
Space Center Houston is the official visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center. It offers exhibitions on space exploration, simulators and the chance to see real artifacts from space missions. It’s very different and has all the US technology on the subject.
7. San Antonio River Walk – San Antonio
The San Antonio River Walk is a network of promenades along the San Antonio River. With stores, restaurants and bars, it’s a great place to stroll, dine and enjoy the vibrant nightlife.
8. See the Texas State Capitol – Austin
The Texas State Capitol is one of Austin’s most iconic buildings. It offers guided tours that explain the history and architecture of the building, as well as providing a panoramic view of the city from its top – which is also a must-see on the list of things to do in Texas: 24 best tourist spots.
9. Visit the Natural Bridge Caverns nature reserve – San Antonio
The Natural Bridge Caverns are the largest commercial caverns in Texas. Visitors can explore the impressive underground formations and take part in activities such as zip-lining and fossil digging. It’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. – until 6 p.m. Wednesdays through Saturdays – and costs around 30 dollars for adults.
- If you’re interested, you can book a guided tour of the Natural Bridge Caverns.
10. See the Fort Worth Water Gardens up close – Fort Worth (near Houston)
The Fort Worth Water Gardens is an urban oasis with several fountains and pools. Designed to be a place of rest and reflection, it’s a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.
11. Explore the Dallas Farmers Market – Dallas
The Dallas Farmers Market is a historic market offering fresh produce, crafts and local foods. It’s a great place to experience authentic Texas flavors and support local producers.
12. Grape Creek Wineries – Fredericksburg
Fredericksburg is famous for its wineries, and Grape Creek is one of the most renowned. Visitors can take tours, taste award-winning wines and enjoy the beautiful scenery of the vineyards.
13. Visit the Blanton Museum of Art – Austin
The Blanton Museum of Art is known for its impressive collection of modern and contemporary art. Located at the University of Texas, it offers rotating exhibitions and educational programs.
14. Visit the Houston Zoo – Houston
The Houston Zoo is home to more than 6,000 animals from 900 different species. It’s a great place for families, with interactive areas and educational conservation programs.
- You can visit this and other attractions in the city with the Houston CityPASS card, which allows you to save a lot.
15. Visit The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza – Dallas
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is dedicated to the assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Located in the former book depository from where the shots were fired, the museum offers detailed exhibitions on the life and death of Kennedy (the 35th and one of the most emblematic presidents in US history).
- Interested in the subject? Consider also taking a Kennedy assassination tour of the city.
16. Taste authentic Tex-Mex
Texas is famous for its Tex-Mex cuisine, a fusion of Mexican and American flavors. In any major Texan city, you’ll find restaurants serving tacos, enchiladas and fajitas, which you can’t fail to love. It’s a must on your list of things to do in Texas.
- And if you enjoy exploring the local gastronomy, consider taking a food tour of San Antonio, Austin or Dallas, depending on where you are.
17. See a rodeo in Austin or Houston
Rodeos are an essential part of Texan culture. Events in Austin and Houston offer the chance to see exciting competitions, horse shows and enjoy an authentic atmosphere that doesn’t necessarily hurt animals.
18. Explore Magnolia Market – Waco (between Dallas and Austin)
Magnolia Market, founded by Chip and Joanna Gaines of the show “Fixer Upper”, is a popular destination for fans of design and decoration. Located in Waco, it offers a variety of decorative products, food and activities for the family. It’s a more specific tour, but interesting for those who like the subject.
19. See the Cadillac Ranch – Austin
The Cadillac Ranch is an outdoor art installation in Amarillo. It consists of ten old Cadillacs partially buried in the ground, where visitors are encouraged to add their own graffiti art to the cars.
20. Stroll through Moody Gardens – Galveston
Moody Gardens is an entertainment and education complex in Galveston, with an aquarium, botanical garden, amusement park and 3D movie theater. It’s a great place for a couple’s or family day out, as there’s so much to see.
21. See the Guadalupe Mountains – National Park
The Guadalupe Mountains National Park offers stunning landscapes and challenging trails. It’s an ideal destination for nature lovers, with opportunities for hiking, climbing and more.
22. Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier – Galveston
The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is a waterfront amusement park with rides, games and restaurants. It’s a great place for family fun with incredible views of the Gulf of Mexico.
23. Hiking in Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is known for its desert landscapes and very scenic trails. It offers activities such as hiking, kayaking and stargazing, and is therefore highly sought after by those who enjoy iconic trails.
24. Visit the Dallas Museum of Art – Dallas
Our final tip for the 24 best tourist attractions in Texas is the Dallas Museum of Art, which has an extensive collection of art from various cultures and historical periods. Exhibitions include contemporary, European, Asian and African art, offering a rich cultural experience for visitors.
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