10 Can’t-Miss Things To Do In Texas
Texas is huge, so here’s a tight, no-fluff guide to the state’s most iconic outdoor adventures, culture hits, and only-in-Texas experiences. Every section includes a photo and a direct link to plan or buy tickets.
1) Hike into Big Bend’s Santa Elena Canyon
Sheer limestone walls rise 1,500 feet above the Rio Grande—an unbeatable sunrise/sunset walk and a dark-sky paradise at night. Plan it: NPS park page and “Plan Your Visit.”
2) Stroll the San Antonio River Walk + visit The Alamo
Miles of waterside paths lined with restaurants, music, and boat cruises—then pay respects at the Shrine of Texas Liberty a few blocks away. Plan / Tickets:
3) Stand beside a Saturn V at Space Center Houston
Walk the length of the moon rocket, see spacecraft, and take the NASA tram tour (availability varies). Get tickets & hours:
4) Beach days at Padre Island National Seashore
66 miles of undeveloped coastline, stellar birding, and seasonal sea-turtle releases. Plan it:
5) Sip Texas wine in Fredericksburg & the Hill Country
More than 75 wineries, tasting rooms in town, and shuttles along Wine Road 290. Plan / Tours:
6) Watch the Fort Worth Stockyards longhorn cattle drive
Twice-daily longhorn drives roll down East Exchange Ave—pure Old West. Times & details / more to do:
7) Explore Dallas’ history at The Sixth Floor Museum
Powerful exhibits on JFK’s life and assassination inside the former Texas School Book Depository. Plan & tickets:
8) “Find Your Peak” in Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Home to Texas’ four highest peaks and an exposed Permian fossil reef. Plan it:
9) Hike the Lighthouse at Palo Duro Canyon State Park
The nation’s second-largest canyon packs color-stacked cliffs and 30+ miles of trails. Plan / Reserve day-use or camping:
10) Summit the pink granite dome at Enchanted Rock
Short, steep slab hike with big-sky views (day-use reservations strongly recommended; popular park). Reserve / Plan:
