Texas is the second largest state in America, which is why it has a lot to offer. Many of you might have seen the shape of Texas embedded in jewelry, cutting boards, bridges, tattoos etc. Its flag is more or less the same height as the American flag. These are signs that Texas has its own charm.
Texas has everything from piney woods to deserts. It also has hills as well as mountains. What makes Texas interesting is the variation in places. If you intend to really see this state from A to Z then you will have to spend time in each region.
Moreover, the state has everything. You can do barbecues, shopping, go to wineries, distilleries, bluebonnet trails etc
Ten Texas locations that you must go to
Texas has a lot more than just the San Antonio River Walk. If you are a tourist you must not just stay in the urban centers like Houston and Austin. You are missing out on a lot of you just staying in Houston and Austin. For more guidance about places to stay in Texas, do check out this blog.
The state is also called the Lone Star State. It comprises two national parks and many protected landscapes. Texas is packed with plenty of natural wonders which are mostly unseen by many people.
This Lone Star State does not lack any historic sites as well. It has many off-the-beaten path destinations which offer a satisfying journey for adventure enthusiasts.
Here are ten destinations in Texas that you must-visit:
- The Big Bend National Park
The Big Bend National Park is an ideal destination for tourists who want to have some isolation from the noisy city life. It is the biggest secured area of the Chihuahuan Desert. The Big Bend National Park is a perfect play area for outdoorsmen.
You can do a lot of activities in this park while enjoying the view. You can camp, hike, paddle and view the wildlife. Whether you are a casual hiker or an adventure enthusiast, you will have a great time exploring this park.
It also welcomes stargazers, horseback riders and fishers. If you like nature then it is a must visit location in Texas.
- The Hamilton Pool Preserve
Do you know about the Hamilton Pool Preserve in Austin? If not then it is okay many of the residents also don’t. This natural pool is as stunning as it sounds. There are times when swimming is allowed in this natural pool and when it is you must not miss the chance to dip in it. The color of the pool is soothing to the eyes.
You can also go hiking there. Visitors can go and relax at this spot while taking some of the best instagrammable photos one can capture. If you are lucky you can easily spot a golden-cheeked warbler and other birds as this pool preserve is a home to them.
This spot is a delight for the eyes. There are beautiful cypress trees and orchids along the stream.
- The Padre Island National Seashore
If you are a wildlife viewer and a bird lover, you shouldn’t miss out on this one. The Padre Island National Seashore is the world’s longest barrier island that is undeveloped. It is home to skimmers and buntings along with other exotic birds.
Tourists can also witness the sea turtle hatchlings here if they visit at the right times. It is a once in a lifetime opportunity if you are able to catch this sight.
- The Texas State Fair
The Texas State Fair is a must to attend at least once in your life. The fair provides friends and families with entertainment that can be only provided by Texans. The annual visitors of this Fair are more than 2 million. You can have an idea from the amount of visitors that come to attend this fair every year, how good it would be. It is a magical experience for the young ones especially.
- The Hidden Gems in Marfa
Marfa is a quaint artist town which also serves as a humble water stop. It welcomes all kinds of travelers. The Hidden Gems in Marfa is a must-see site in Texas. The mysterious lights here would mesmerize you in unexpected ways.
Different types of artists often visit Marfa because of its artwork. It has both beautiful artwork and an atmospheric phenomenon so whatever you are interested in you must visit it once in your life.
- The Jacob’s Well
Are you a fan of blue-green waters? If you are then you must dive into Jacob’s Well once in your lifetime. It is located in Wimberley. It is a submerged cave in Texas whose depth is 140 feet in some parts. It is one of the favorite diving and swimming spots for tourists.
- The Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Guadalupe Mountains National Park is a wonder for people who love beautiful and nature-filled outdoors. It has the highest peak in the state and is also known as the top of texas.
The National park is packed with canyons, dunes, mountains and deserts. Once you visit this place in Texas, you are sure to tick mark it on your bucket list.
- Rothko Chapel
If you are one of those who like to travel with a purpose then this one is a perfect place for you. This is a chapel cum museum which is named after the American artist Mark Rothko. It is a must-see place if you are visiting Texas.
- The Natural Bridge Caverns
If you are interested in limestone formations then the Natural Bridge Caverns are a must visit place for you. It is a tourist-friendly spot with chambers and pathways that would enchant you.
- The Johnson Space Center
The Johnson Space Center provides an out of the world experience for every age. It is a science and space education leader. It has various exhibits of aircraft, spacesuits, rockets and spacecraft.
Conclusion
Texas holds a lot more than you can think of which is why we have prepared a bucket list for you to visit the must-see places. The above ten locations in Texas would for sure be a treat to your eyes and soul.
Photo by Courtney Rose on Unsplash