Discover the Lone Star State
Lake Travis, located near Austin, is often celebrated as one of Texas’ most impressive lakes. This reservoir on the Colorado River is renowned for its crystal-clear waters, making it a paradise for water sports enthusiasts. It boasts over 271 miles of shoreline, dotted with numerous parks, boat ramps, and marinas. Lake Travis is not just about water activities; its surrounding area has various dining and entertainment options, including lakeside restaurants and live music venues. The lake’s unique combination of natural beauty, recreational opportunities, and proximity to the vibrant city of Austin makes it a top contender for the title of Texas’ best lake.
Top Three Facts about Texas
01
Cattle and Oil
Texas is a leading producer of both cattle and oil. The state’s ranches contribute significantly to the nation’s beef production, and Texas has been a major player in the oil industry since the early 20th century.
02
King Ranch
The King Ranch in Texas is larger than the state of Rhode Island. It’s one of the largest ranches in the world and a testament to Texas’s reputation for huge cattle ranches.
03
Economic Powerhouse
Texas has one of the largest economies in the world, driven by industries such as energy, technology, healthcare, and agriculture. If Texas were its own country, it would rank among the top economies globally.
Must See Attractions
Big Bend National Park
Nature & Parks
Spanning over 800,000 acres, the park is a haven for outdoor adventurers, offering hiking, camping, and river rafting. Its diverse ecosystems are home to various wildlife, including roadrunners, javelinas, and mountain lions. The park’s dramatic canyons and star-filled night skies provide a breathtaking backdrop for any visit.
Fort Worth Botanic Garden
Nature & Parks
The oldest botanic garden in Texas offers a stunning display of native and exotic plants across 110 acres, featuring themed gardens like the fragrant Rose Garden and the tranquil Japanese Garden.
Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Nature & Parks
Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” with its dramatic geological formations, colorful layers of rock, and variety of wildlife, Palo Duro Canyon State Park is a paradise for hikers, campers, and nature enthusiasts.
Where to Sleep
Lakes to Enjoy
1. Lady Bird Lake
A centerpiece of Austin’s outdoor activities, this lake offers excellent kayaking and paddleboarding and scenic views of downtown.
2. Lake Travis
Famous for its clear waters and recreational activities, Lake Travis is a hub for boating, fishing, swimming, and even zip-lining.
3. Canyon Lake
Known as the “Water Recreation Capital of Texas,” this lake is perfect for water sports, fishing, and boasts beautiful scenery.
4. Lake Conroe
A popular retreat for Houstonians, this lake is great for fishing, boating, and has a lively shoreline with restaurants.
5. Possum Kingdom Lake
Known for its deep blue waters and dramatic cliffs, this lake is ideal for water sports and hiking.
6. Sam Rayburn Reservoir
The largest lake wholly in Texas, known for its largemouth bass fishing and tranquil waters.
7. Lake Texoma
One of the largest reservoirs in the country, Lake Texoma is renowned for its excellent striper fishing and a variety of water sports.
8. Caddo Lake
With its enchanting cypress trees and Spanish moss, Caddo Lake offers a mystical and serene boating and fishing experience.
Annual Events and Festivals
March 4 – 23, 2025
Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is a quintessential Texan spectacle, capturing the essence of the state’s rich agricultural heritage and cowboy culture. Held annually at NRG Stadium, this sprawling event combines a world-class rodeo, one of the largest in the world, with a livestock show, carnival, and nightly musical performances. Drawing crowds in the millions, the rodeo showcases thrilling rodeo competitions, including bull riding, barrel racing, and bronc riding, attracting top-notch talent from around the globe.
April 25 – 27, 2025
Port Aransas SandFest
Port Aransas SandFest, held annually in the charming coastal town of Port Aransas, stands as a testament to the incredible artistry that can be achieved with the most transient of mediums: sand. This lively festival attracts skilled sand sculptors from around the world who converge on the sun-soaked shores to create intricate and awe-inspiring works of art. The event is a mesmerizing spectacle, where the beach transforms into an open-air gallery showcasing massive, temporary sculptures that range from whimsical figures to intricate architectural marvels.
September 2024
Marfa Lights Festival
The Marfa Lights Festival is a unique and enchanting event held annually in the small, artsy town of Marfa in West Texas, typically during the Labor Day weekend in September. Celebrating the mysterious phenomenon known as the “Marfa Lights,” which are unexplained glowing orbs that appear in the desert outside of town, the festival is a blend of curiosity, culture, and community spirit. Over the years, these lights have sparked a mix of scientific and supernatural theories, adding an air of mystery to the festival. The event features various activities, including live music, a parade, food and artisan vendors, and street dances, transforming the town into a lively hub of entertainment and communal gathering.
Top Hiking Trails
Guadalupe Peak Trail
Guadalupe Peak Trailhead, Salt Flat, Texas
Guadalupe Peak Trail, often revered as a “hiker’s paradise,” is located in Guadalupe Mountains National Park in West Texas and presents one of the most rewarding hiking experiences in the state. As the trail meanders to the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Peak, at an elevation of 8,751 feet, it offers a challenging yet exhilarating journey spanning approximately 8.5 miles round trip. With its roughly 3,000 feet of elevation gain, the ascent is strenuous but rewards hikers with views. Along the path, one is treated to diverse scenery, from rugged desert landscapes to dense forests of pinyon pine, Douglas fir, and ponderosa pine.
The Window Trail
Store To Trailhead, Big Bend National Park, Texas
This 5.6-mile round trip trail is renowned for its dramatic conclusion at “The Window,” a V-shaped gap in the mountains that frames a stunning panoramic view of the Chihuahuan Desert below. The trail begins at the Chisos Basin trailhead, leading hikers through various ecosystems, from shady, forested sections to exposed slopes. As the path descends, it offers glimpses of the vast desert landscape that stretches into Mexico. The trail culminates at The Window, where visitors are rewarded with a scene, especially during sunrise or sunset when the sunlight bathes the desert in warm hues.
Crockett Gardens Falls Trail
1065 Eagle Point Dr, Georgetown, Texas
This trail segment, approximately a six-mile round trip from the Cedar Breaks Park trailhead, is a moderately challenging hike featuring diverse landscapes, including dense woodlands, rocky outcrops, and picturesque lake views. The trail’s destination, Crockett Gardens Falls, is a hidden oasis where a small, spring-fed waterfall cascades over a fern-draped limestone cliff into a serene pool below. The site is also historically significant, as it houses the remnants of an 1850s homestead, complete with a restored garden originally established by the Crockett family. It adds a touch of Texas history to the scenic natural beauty.
Best Golf Courses
BlackHorse Golf Club
12205 Fry Road, Cypress, Texas
BlackHorse Golf Club is a premier golf destination that offers an exceptional golfing experience for players of all skill levels. Comprising two 18-hole championship courses, each designed by the renowned team of Peter Jacobsen and Jim Hardy, BlackHorse provides a diverse and memorable golfing experience. The North Course is known for its challenging layout, featuring natural wetlands, lush forestry, and a series of lakes that demand strategic play and precision. In contrast, the South Course presents a more traditional parkland style, with its fairways meandering through a landscape of mature oak trees and tranquil waters, culminating in a spectacular island green.
Tempest Golf Club
568 E Wilkins Rd, Gladewater, Texas
Tempest Golf Club, situated in the heart of the Texas Hill Country near Gladewater, is a golfing haven that seamlessly blends natural beauty with an exceptional golfing experience. Designed by acclaimed architect Jeffrey D. Blume, this 18-hole championship course offers a challenging yet enjoyable layout that caters to golfers of all skill levels. The course winds through rolling terrain, incorporating native grasses, oak and pine tree stands, and strategically placed bunkers and water hazards, adding visual appeal and tactical complexity to the game.
Memorial Park Golf Course and Driving Range
1001 E Memorial Loop Dr, Houston, Texas
Originally opened in 1923 and redesigned in 2020 by renowned golf architect Tom Doak, this 18-hole course stretches over 7,300 yards, offering a world-class golfing experience in an urban park setting. Known for its expansive, tree-lined fairways and strategically placed bunkers, the course presents a stimulating challenge for golfers of all skill levels. The layout is characterized by its variety, with each hole offering a different challenge, demanding thoughtful strategy and skillful play.
Water Sports
Gulf of Mexico Parasailing
Parasailing
Parasailing in Texas provides an exhilarating adventure that combines aerial views with the thrill of being suspended high above the sparkling waters. Whether along the Gulf Coast or on the many scenic lakes throughout the state, parasailing operators offer an unforgettable experience for thrill seekers. Parasailing along the Gulf of Mexico provides a unique perspective of the coastline, with panoramic views of the sandy beaches and turquoise waters.
Texas Surf Camps
Surfing & Windsurfing
Surfing in Texas may not be the first thing that comes to mind, but the state’s expansive coastline along the Gulf of Mexico provides ample opportunities for wave enthusiasts. One notable company that caters to those eager to ride the Texas surf is Texas Surf Camps. Operating in areas like Galveston, they offer a fantastic platform for beginners to learn the art of surfing. With experienced and certified instructors, Texas Surf Camps provides comprehensive lessons that cover the basics of paddling, balance, and catching waves. The warm Gulf waters and manageable waves make it an ideal environment for novice surfers to build confidence and skills.
Jet Skiing on Lake Travis
Jet Skiing
Lake Travis, a sprawling reservoir on the Colorado River, is a hotspot for jet skiing. The lake’s expansive surface area and clear waters create ideal conditions for high-speed adventures. Riders can explore hidden coves, race along the open stretches, or enjoy the thrill of skimming across the water. With numerous rental facilities and guided tours, Lake Travis caters to seasoned jet skiers and newcomers looking for an exhilarating experience.
Resorts to Discover
Horseshoe Bay Resort
Recreational, Family-friendly
200 Hi Circle N, Horseshoe Bay, Texas 78657
Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort And Spa
Couples, Spa
9800 Hyatt Resort Dr, San Antonio, Texas 78251
The San Luis Resort
Family-friendly
5222 Seawall Blvd, Galveston, Texas 77551
Tips on Vacationing in Texas
Explore Urban and Rural
Experience the best of both worlds by exploring vibrant cities like Austin, Houston, San Antonio, and Dallas, but also venture into rural areas to enjoy scenic landscapes and cowboy culture.
Texan Cuisine
Indulge in Texan cuisine, especially barbecue and Tex-Mex. Each region has its specialties, so don’t miss out on trying local dishes.
Outdoor Adventures
Take advantage of the diverse outdoor activities. Whether hiking in Big Bend National Park, enjoying water sports on the Gulf Coast, or stargazing in West Texas, there’s something for every outdoor enthusiast.
Frequently Asked Questions about Texas
Pack weather-appropriate clothing, especially if you plan to explore different regions. Comfortable shoes are essential for walking and outdoor activities. Sunscreen, a hat, and a reusable water bottle are recommended, especially during hot months.
Texas is famous for its barbecue, Tex-Mex cuisine, and hearty comfort food. Try dishes like brisket, tacos, chili, and Texan-style barbecue. Don’t forget to savor some authentic Mexican cuisine, as Texas shares a border with Mexico.
When planning your stay in Texas, you can choose from several luxury vacation rental websites. Some popular options are Lake, Rent By Owner™, and Airbnb. These websites offer luxurious properties, such as resorts and beachfront homes, allowing you to find the perfect accommodation.
When looking for large group vacation rentals in Texas, you can start by browsing major vacation rental websites such as Lake, Airbnb, and Rent By Owner™. Use filters like ‘guest capacity’ or ‘number of bedrooms’ to narrow your search to listings that accommodate your group size. You can also contact local vacation rental management companies, who might have suitable options in their portfolio.
Booking a last-minute vacation home in Texas is possible through websites like Lake, Airbnb, Vrbo, and Rent By Owner™. Many hosts and property owners update their availability frequently, and these platforms often have instant booking options for convenience. Remember that your options might be more limited during peak travel seasons, so booking as early as possible is always a good idea.
Vacation Destinations Nearby
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