You’ll find tons of unique things to do in Texas with our western culture, warm weather and wide open skies. My home state is an awesome place to visit.
Music, sports, history and nature are just some of what‘s on offer. From the world’s largest Honky Tonk to the famous NASA space command, the Lone Star State makes an interesting destination. Texas is also more affordable than popular states like California and New York.
Read on for the best things to do in Texas from the major cities to great outdoors.
CONTENTS:
- North Texas (Dallas/Fort Worth)
- Central Texas (Austin/San Antonio)
- Southeast Texas (Houston/Gulf Coast)
Things to Do in North Texas
Explore Sundance Square
Fort Worth, TX
In the heart of Fort Worth, you’ll find a lively atmosphere at Sundance Square. It’s the center of most happenings in town, including festivals, concerts and other events. This well-maintained area is where Texas’ western culture shines through. Don’t miss the giant bejeweled Cowboy hat outside Sundance Plaza.
Looking for something to do in the evening? Catch a live show at the famous Bass Performance Hall or Jubilee Theatre. See what’s happening in Sundance Square on their event calendar.
In the square, you can sample our beloved Tex-Mex cuisine at restaurants like Mi Cocina and Salsa Limón. You can also shop the many boutiques, home goods and art galleries nearby.
Two-Step at Billy Bob’s Texas
Fort Worth, TX
There’s no better place to experience country music and line dancing than Billy Bob’s Texas. Visit this massive honky-tonk to see your favorite country music star and learn the Texas Two-Step. Don’t worry if you’re not wearing cowboy boots – we won’t hold that against you!
Check out the Billy Bob’s Texas concert and event calendar here.
Experience the State Fair of Texas
Dallas, TX
The State Fair of Texas is probably the most famous event in the state. In my childhood, the fair was a staple of fall entertainment with my family. My favorite part was eating a giant turkey leg and sampling that year’s unique fried food creations.
Taking place at Fair Park in Dallas, it features many classic attractions that Texans cherish deeply. There’s “Big Tex”, the 55-foot tall cowboy installation at the center of the park. Additionally, you can experience the Clydesdale horses, auto show and cultural exhibits like the African American Museum.
Traveling with a sports fan? See if they want to experience the annual Texas vs. Oklahoma college football game. Also known as the “Red River Rivalry,” it is one of the biggest sporting events in the country.
If you’re looking for things to do in Texas in October, don’t miss this one of a kind experience.
Discover the Fort Worth Zoo
Fort Worth, TX
At Fort Worth Zoo, you can explore collections of animals from Texas and around the world. This is one of the nation’s top zoos, housing over 7,000 members of the animal kingdom.
The zoo is organized by habitat and area of origin. My favorites are the giraffes, elephants, tigers, penguins, flamingos, and alligators. I also personally enjoy the Texas Wild! exhibit which hosts native animals of the state. This includes bobcats, roadrunners, red wolves and, of course, a bald eagle.
The zoo opens 365 days a year and offers half-price admission on Wednesdays. Plan your visit on the zoo’s website.
Recharge at White Rock Lake
Dallas, TX
Nestled in a quiet east Dallas neighborhood, White Rock Lake is a peaceful escape from the city. Here, you can hike or bike the trails around the 1,015 acre lake. The water is mostly still creating a soothing atmosphere. You can birdwatch, fish, kayak or gather for a picnic.
The lake is rarely crowded and truly a hidden gem in Dallas. The lake has many different entry points and parking areas, so check out this map before you go.
Catch a film at Palace Arts Center
Grapevine, TX
Visit this vintage theater to relive the movie-going experience of Hollywood’s golden age. You can catch a screening of classic films like Funny Face and Back to the Future.
The Historic Main Street District in Grapevine, Texas, hosts the theater. Grapevine is a small town about 20 minutes west of Dallas. The area also features charming shopping and dining options as well as events throughout the year.
Get a thrill at Six Flags Over Texas
Arlington, TX
If you’re looking for things to do in Texas with kids, I highly recommend Six Flags Over Texas. The park features roller coasters, thrill rides and other themed attractions. No matter the age, there’s something there for everyone from young kids to adults.
Some of the best rides in the park are the Titan (pictured above), New Texas Giant and Mr. Freeze roller-coasters. Less intense attractions include SUPERMAN: Tower of Power and Six Flags Speedway Go Karts.
It’s a fun place to spend a day, especially in the cooler fall, winter and spring months. It gets super hot in the summer, so I don’t recommend visiting then.
Things to Do in Central Texas
Vineyard-hop in the Hill Country
Fredericksburg, TX
Texas has its own wine country which is based north of Austin in the Hill Country. In Fredericksburg there are over 50 wineries that grow and produce their own varieties. The warm, sunny climate offers excellent growing conditions, attracting winemakers from around the globe. You can reserve a tour of the local wine trail or go behind the scenes at a specific vineyard.
Fredericksburg was founded by German settlers which influence the town to this day. As a result, you can sample German restaurants, bakeries and Biergartens on your visit.
Read about my recent cabin stay in Fredericksburg here.
Jam out at Austin City Limits
Austin, TX
This enormous music festival features 100+ artists across many genres. Austin City Limits is presented by the Austin Parks Foundation and hosts around 450,000 attendees each year. The festival takes place over two weekends in October when the Texas heat starts fading.
ACL fest takes place at Zilker Park, a spacious outdoor area west of downtown Austin. A portion of each ACL ticket purchased online (on the festival website) supports the Austin Parks Foundation. They report raising $8.4 million for Austin’s public parks in 2024 alone.
Get Boozy on 6th Street
Austin, TX
Austin is where the party’s at. Especially on 6th Street, a downtown area filled with eclectic bars, restaurants and nightlife. Looking for a craft brew house or a restaurant with an exciting theme? You’ll find it over on 6th Street.
One of my favorite spots is Idle Hands, which serves up mostly mezcal-based cocktails. You can see my mezcal-rita pictured above. Other options include The Rainey House, Banger’s Sausage House, and Electric Shuffle.
Remember the Alamo
San Antonio, TX
The Alamo is a UNESCO World Heritage Site where a famous battle took place centuries ago. It involved a small group of rebels who lasted days in battle against against the Mexican army during the Texas Revolution. This is arguably the state’s most famous landmark.
Its was originally built as a Catholic mission by the Spanish in 1718. Amazingly, it still stands in San Antonio today, serving as a symbol of Texans’ fighting spirit.
Wander along the River Walk
San Antonio, TX
One of the most popular tourist attractions in Texas is the River Walk in San Antonio. It’s a set of walkways that run along the San Antonio River lined with restaurants, nightclubs, shops, and historic landmarks. It blends natural beauty with the charm of a Mexican village.
You can take a guided boat tour through the waterway to see all the sights in the area. Otherwise, you can go on foot and stroll up and down each side. Highlights include the San Antonio Museum of Art, Casa Rio restaurant, La Villita Historic Arts Village, and The Majestic Theatre.
The area is massive, so be sure to wear comfy shoes and don’t forget where you parked!
Things to Do in Southeast Texas
Vintage Shopping for Hidden Gems
Houston, TX
Most big cities in Texas have at least one amazing thrift store. They do a great job of giving new life to vintage clothing items. Specifically, you can find some gently used western accessories like cowboy hats, boots, bolo ties, belts, etc.
One of the best in this category is Leopard Lounge, which has locations in Houston and Austin.
Escape to Clear Lake
Greater Houston, TX
Known for boating, fishing and water activities, Clear Lake spans 2,000 acres and feeds into Galveston Bay. You can rent a boat, jet ski or kayak and spend a day out on the water. Then, head over to the Kemah Boardwalk, for places to eat and shop as well as a roller coaster, Ferris wheel and other rides.
Get swampy at the Armand Bayou Nature Center. Here, you can take a boat tour of the bayou, pet an alligator or catch a rare glimpse of bats up close.
Finally, Clear Lake is close to NASA’s Johnson Space Center, the training base and control center for America’s astronauts. Ever heard the phrase, “Houston, we have a problem?” Well, this is the place they’re talking about. There’s a visitor center called Space Center Houston where you can learn the history of space exploration. In addition to artifacts and exhibits, the center offers a tram tour around the base.
Fan out at NRG Stadium
Houston, TX
From sports games to concert tours, NRG Stadium and Park hosts hundreds of major events every year. It’s where the Houston Texans play football and also a popular stop for big artists on tour. In March, it also hosts the annual Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo – the most Texan event ever made.
Keep an eye on upcoming events via NRG Stadium’s website.
Dig into some crawfish
Anywhere
Most Texans love eating crawfish, especially in the Gulf Coast area. Whether it’s an at-home boil or a Cajun restaurant, crawfish eating is always a good time. They’re usually spicy, salty and boiled along with corn, potatoes and sausage. Pictured above is JuJu’s Cajun Crawfish Shack in Beaumont, Texas.
Conclusion
George Strait left his heart in Texas, and you might too. With so many unique things to do, Texas is sure to make a memorable destination for your travels.
What activity sticks out most to you? Is there something I left off the list? Sound off in the comments!
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