Explore the best of Texas with our guide to the top 25 attractions in the Lone Star State, from historical landmarks and natural wonders to world-class museums and family-friendly destinations. Uncover the beauty and history of Texas through these must-visit spots!
Texas, the second-largest state in the US, offers a rich tapestry of history, culture, and natural beauty. From historic landmarks and natural wonders to world-class museums and family-friendly attractions, there is no shortage of things to see and do. Whether you're a history buff, nature lover, or culture enthusiast, Texas has something for everyone.
In this guide, we've compiled a list of the top 25 attractions in the Lone Star State to help you explore the best that Texas has to offer. So, pack your bags and get ready to embark on an unforgettable journey through the heart of the American Southwest!
The Alamo, San Antonio:
A historic mission and the site of the famous 1836 battle for Texan independence from Mexico.
San Antonio River Walk:
A vibrant, urban waterway lined with shops, restaurants, and entertainment venues.
Space Center Houston:
The official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center, offering interactive exhibits and tours.
Big Bend National Park:
A stunning national park known for its rugged terrain, diverse wildlife, and breathtaking landscapes.
Padre Island National Seashore:
A pristine barrier island with miles of sandy beaches, ideal for swimming, fishing, and bird watching.
The State Capitol and Visitors Center, Austin:
The seat of the Texas government, with beautiful architecture and a rich history.
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Dallas:
A museum dedicated to the life and legacy of President John F. Kennedy, located in the building from where his assassin fired.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park:
A park known for its towering peaks, diverse ecosystems, and extensive hiking trails.
Galveston Island:
A coastal resort city with historic architecture, beautiful beaches, and a vibrant nightlife.
Fort Worth Stockyards:
A historic district known for its preserved cowboy culture, cattle drives, and rodeos.
Natural Bridge Caverns:
The largest commercial caverns in Texas, with stunning underground formations.
Texas State Aquarium, Corpus Christi:
A large aquarium featuring marine life from the Gulf of Mexico and the Caribbean.
Moody Gardens and Aquarium Pyramid, Galveston:
A tourist destination with a large pyramid-shaped aquarium, a rainforest exhibit, and more.
Dallas World Aquarium:
An indoor aquarium and zoo with exotic birds, mammals, and fish from around the world.
Houston Zoo:
A large zoo with over 6,000 animals from around the world.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, Austin:
A botanical garden dedicated to the conservation of native plants and landscapes.
The Kimbell Art Museum, Fort Worth:
A renowned art museum with an extensive collection ranging from ancient to modern times.
The Menil Collection, Houston:
A private art museum featuring a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts.
San Jacinto Monument and Museum, Houston:
A monument and museum dedicated to the Battle of San Jacinto, the decisive battle of the Texas Revolution.
The Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum, Waco:
A museum dedicated to the history and heritage of the Texas Rangers law enforcement agency.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Amarillo:
The second-largest canyon in the United States, known for its stunning vistas and extensive hiking trails.
The USS Lexington, Corpus Christi:
A historic aircraft carrier turned museum, offering tours and interactive exhibits.
The Houston Museum of Natural Science:
A world-class museum with extensive collections in paleontology, astronomy, wildlife, and more.
The Witte Museum, San Antonio:
A museum dedicated to Texas history, culture, and natural science, with interactive exhibits for all ages.
The Bishop's Palace, Galveston:
A stunning example of Victorian architecture, once the residence of a prominent Galveston family, now open for tours.