Things to Do in Texas

Travel Themes

• Interests (rated ★★★★): Nature ★★★; Adventure ★★/ ★★★; Culture ★★/ ★★★; Relaxation-holidays ★★★.

Nature and Adventure

Texas is one of those states associated with "wide-open spaces"—and very wide at that, given its area is larger than France. Mountains, canyons, forests, bayous, beaches, and vast desert regions are all on offer, though the landscapes may not always match the "majesty" found in, for example, American West. Still, Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and the striking Palo Duro Canyon are well worth a visit for their scenery and outdoor activities, especially hiking.

Culture

Some American regions have a distinct culture that sets them apart from the rest of the country. Texas is one of them, sitting at the crossroads of the South, Mexico, and the American West. Shaped by its history and the diverse populations that have forged its identity, Texas is a world of its own—sometimes not the most open-minded, with its "cowboy" culture, best seen in Bandera, a town near Austin that calls itself the "Cowboy Capital of the World." More broadly, cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston offer a solid selection of museums and are known for their cultural scenes. Meanwhile, San Antonio, heavily influenced by Spanish and Mexican heritage, is home to several colonial-era missions, earning it a UNESCO designation.

Relaxation and Holidays

Like any coastal state, Texas has developed a beach culture, though not on the same scale as, say, Florida. Still, it offers plenty of seaside relaxation opportunities.

Beaches and Resorts

Galveston, Corpus Christi, and especially the long, sprawling Padre Island are the main beach areas along the Gulf of Mexico. Padre Island, in particular, is a hotspot for young people and students during the famous spring breaks in March and April.

Water Activities

Deep-sea fishing:

Diving:

Water sports:

Sailing:

Hiking

Hiking

Cycling

Horseback Riding

Outdoor and Adventure Sports

Golf

Hunting and River Fishing

Other Activities

Whitewater sports:

Climbing:

Paragliding and aerial sports:

Caving:

Cultural Life and Activities

Nightlife and Going Out