As the second largest state in the U.S., Texas is overflowing with incredible tourist destinations. From lively cities to natural wonders, historical sites and theme parks, there are so many amazing places to explore.
If you’re planning a Texas vacation, you definitely want to include these top 5 tourist sites on your itinerary:
1. The Alamo – San Antonio
No trip to Texas is complete without visiting the iconic Alamo in San Antonio. This historic mission and battle site preserves the story of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution. Walking through the compound, you can visualize how the events unfolded. See artifacts like Davey Crockett’s rifle and Jim Bowie’s legendary knife. Make sure to also explore the surrounding Alamo Plaza and the River Walk area. Understanding the history and sacrifice that occurred at the Alamo is a must for any visitor to the Lone Star State.
2. Big Bend National Park
For outdoor adventure in sweeping desert landscapes, plan a visit to remote Big Bend National Park located along the Rio Grande in southwest Texas. Here you can embark on scenic drives, go hiking and backpacking through the Chihuahuan Desert, take in views from Emory Peak, and enjoy water activities like rafting and swimming in the Rio Grande. Camp under the dark night skies while looking for wildlife like roadrunners, javelina, and black bears. With over 1,200 square miles of rugged beauty and tranquility, Big Bend is one of Texas’s most prized national parks.
3. San Antonio River Walk
Meandering through downtown San Antonio, the lively River Walk is one of the city’s top attractions. Take a stroll along the walkways lining the San Antonio River and check out the restaurants, bars, shops, and historic stone bridges. Sip a margarita, indulge in some Tex-Mex cuisine, listen to live music, and soak up the festive ambiance. For a fuller experience, take a river cruise and learn about the River Walk’s fascinating history and architecture as you float by. A visit to the River Walk is easily one of the most memorable parts of any San Antonio getaway.
4. Six Flags Over Texas – Arlington
For families and thrill seekers, one of the most iconic attractions is Six Flags Over Texas theme park located between Dallas and Fort Worth. This massive park is home to over 100 rides and attractions including world-class roller coasters, tall towers, family rides, shows, restaurants, and more. Spend the day experiencing thrills like the 14-story DROP OF DOOM freefall ride along with classics like the Mine Train and Runaway Mine Train roller coasters. With so much to enjoy across the park’s different themed sections, you’ll create lifelong memories at Six Flags Over Texas.
5. Padre Island National Seashore
Located right along the Gulf of Mexico, Padre Island National Seashore is the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world at 70 miles long. Here you can swim, snorkel, camp, fish, birdwatch, and simply enjoy miles of pristine beaches. Take a beach drive to access different parts of the shoreline, go kayaking through the dunes, or try windsurfing in the waves. Keep an eye out for Kemp’s ridley sea turtles and other coastal creatures. With its natural beauty and wealth of recreation, Padre Island is a prize of the Texas coastline.
Start Planning Your Texas Adventures
From historic sites to incredible national parks, lively urban attractions and beach getaways, Texas offers incredible diversity when it comes to tourism. Add these top 5 destinations to your must-see list. Let us know in the comments below if you have visited any of these amazing Texan tourist attractions!
