Texas Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
General Trip Planning
What’s the best time of year to visit Texas?
Travelers consensus: Fall (October/November) and Spring (March/April/May) are ideal. The weather is pleasant, avoiding the extreme summer heat.
How long should I plan for a Texas trip?
Texas is huge, so a week is a bare minimum for a single region. To see multiple cities and regions, plan for two weeks or more.
Is Texas a good destination for a first-time visitor to the USA?
Opinions are mixed. Some say yes, as it offers a unique American experience. Others say no, as the immense size and lack of public transportation can be overwhelming for those not used to driving long distances.
How much does a Texas trip cost?
Generally, Texas is considered more affordable than major coastal cities like NYC or LA. Food and accommodation are often cheaper.
Is it possible to visit Texas without renting a car?
No. Travelers are unanimous on this: a rental car is a necessity. Public transportation is limited, especially between cities and for accessing natural areas.
Are Ubers/Lyfts available?
Yes, in major cities like Austin, Dallas, Houston, and San Antonio. However, they are not reliable for day trips outside of the city limits.
Is Texas safe for tourists?
Generally, yes. Standard safety precautions apply, especially in large cities at night.
What are the must-have apps for a Texas road trip?
Google Maps or Waze for navigation (with an eye on frontage roads!), Yelp or TripAdvisor for food, and a weather app.
Cities & Regions
Which city should I visit if I only have a few days?
San Antonio is a top recommendation for its concentration of attractions (Alamo, Riverwalk) in a walkable area.
What are the key differences between Austin, San Antonio, Dallas, and Houston?
Austin: Known for live music, quirky culture, and outdoor activities (Hill Country).
San Antonio: Rich in history and culture (The Alamo, Spanish Missions), with a focus on Tex-Mex food and the Riverwalk.
Dallas/Fort Worth: A large metroplex with a focus on cowboy culture (Stockyards), museums, and an international dining scene.
Houston: Known for NASA Space Center, diverse food, and a variety of museums.
Should I choose Austin or San Antonio for my trip?
Both are great and often combined into one trip. Austin is more modern and artsy; San Antonio is more historic and traditional.
What’s the best home base for exploring the Hill Country?
San Antonio and Austin are great starting points. New Braunfels is also highly recommended as it’s centrally located to everything.
Are Dallas and Fort Worth worth visiting?
Yes, they are a great combination. Fort Worth offers a more traditional “cowboy” experience, while Dallas is more of a modern metropolis with world-class museums.
Is West Texas worth the long drive?
Yes, for nature lovers. It’s home to Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Mountains, and a unique desert landscape. Be prepared for very long drives and limited services.
What is there to do in East Texas?
East Texas is known for its “Piney Woods” forests. The Big Thicket National Preserve is a popular spot.
What’s the beach scene like in Texas?
The Gulf Coast (Galveston, South Padre Island, Port Aransas) offers beaches. Keep in mind that the water and sand are not comparable to the Caribbean or Florida.
Is a day trip to Corpus Christi worth it?
Some travelers advise skipping it, saying the drive is long and the city is not as exciting as others. However, the USS Lexington and Texas State Aquarium are popular attractions.
What are some interesting small towns to visit?
Fredericksburg, Wimberley, Gruene, Marfa, and Alpine are frequently mentioned.
What’s the most underrated city in Texas?
Fort Worth is often cited for its authentic cowboy culture and great downtown.
Is it possible to visit El Paso and Big Bend on the same trip?
Yes, but it’s a very long drive. It’s recommended to have at least a few days dedicated just to that region.
Food & Drink
What is the one food I must try in Texas?
Authentic Texas BBQ is a non-negotiable must-try.
Where can I find the best BBQ?
Lockhart is the “BBQ Capital of Texas.” Popular spots include Franklin Barbecue (Austin), Terry Black’s BBQ (Austin), and The Salt Lick BBQ (Hill Country).
What is Tex-Mex?
It’s a fusion of Texas and Mexican cuisine. Expect lots of cheese, beef, and chili. Joe T. Garcia’s in Fort Worth is a classic, as are many spots in San Antonio.
Where can I find the best breakfast tacos?
Breakfast tacos are a Texas staple. Look for them at local food trucks and gas stations.
What are kolaches?
A Czech pastry brought to Texas by immigrants. They can be sweet (fruit) or savory (sausage, cheese). The Czech Stop in West, TX, is famous.
What is a “Whataburger”?
A Texas-based fast-food chain. It’s a rite of passage for visitors.
Should I try a 72-ounce steak?
The Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo is famous for its free 72-ounce steak if you can eat it in under an hour. It’s a tourist trap, but a fun one.
What about drinks?
Shiner Bock is a classic Texas beer. Try a “prickly pear margarita” or a local craft beer from one of the many breweries.
Activities & Attractions
What are the top things to do in San Antonio?
The Alamo, The Riverwalk, and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (a UNESCO World Heritage Site).
Is the San Antonio Riverwalk touristy?
Yes, the downtown portion is very touristy. Travelers recommend exploring the “Museum Reach” section for a quieter experience with public art.
What should I do in Austin?
Listen to live music on Sixth Street, explore Zilker Park, visit the Texas State Capitol, or go swimming at Barton Springs Pool.
Is it worth going to NASA Space Center Houston?
Yes, especially if you’re an astronaut-in-training or a space enthusiast. Book the historical Mission Control tour if you can.
What are the Fort Worth Stockyards?
A historic district where you can watch a cattle drive, visit Billy Bob’s Texas (the world’s largest honky-tonk), and get a taste of the Old West.
What are some unique Texas museums?
The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza (JFK assassination) in Dallas, the National Museum of Funeral History in Houston, and the Museum of the Weird in Austin are all recommended.
What are some great outdoor activities?
Hiking at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area or Big Bend National Park. Floating or tubing on the Guadalupe or Comal rivers.
What is tubing and where can I do it?
Tubing is floating down a river in an inner tube. New Braunfels is the most popular destination for tubing on the Guadalupe and Comal rivers.
Where can I see a canyon in Texas?
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” is the second-largest canyon in the U.S.
Are there any hot springs in Texas?
Yes, in Big Bend National Park. They are free and located adjacent to the Rio Grande.
Where can I see a “dark sky”?
Big Bend National Park and Copper Breaks State Park are both International Dark Sky Parks, offering incredible stargazing.
What’s there to do in Lubbock?
The Buddy Holly Center, Silent Wings Museum (WWII gliders), and the National Ranching Heritage Center.
What is the Cadillac Ranch?
An art installation of 10 spray-painted Cadillacs buried nose-down in a field near Amarillo. It’s a popular roadside stop.
What’s a “Buc-ee’s”?
A massive, beloved Texas gas station with a cult following. They have clean bathrooms, every kind of snack imaginable, and Buc-ee’s branded merchandise. A must-stop on any road trip.
Road Trip & Logistics
Is it true that Texas is “a lot of driving”?
Yes, absolutely. The state is massive. Driving from one major city to another can take 3-4 hours or more.
What’s the traffic like?
Traffic in major cities like Houston and Dallas can be very heavy, especially during rush hour. Plan your travel times accordingly.
What should I be aware of on Texas highways?
Frontage roads. They run parallel to the main highway and are used to access local businesses. Pay close attention to signs and your GPS.
How far is Houston from Dallas?
Approximately a 4-hour drive.
How far is San Antonio from Austin?
Approximately a 1.5-hour drive, making them a popular combination for one trip.
How far is Big Bend from the major cities?
It’s a full-day drive from any major city, often 8+ hours. Plan for it.
What should I pack for a Texas road trip?
Plenty of water, especially for West Texas. Sunscreen and a hat are essential. Comfortable shoes for walking and hiking.
Do I need a 4×4 for Big Bend?
Not for the main paved roads, but it is highly recommended if you want to explore the more remote dirt roads.
More Specific/Niche Questions
What’s a good itinerary for a week in Central Texas?
Fly into Austin or San Antonio. Spend 2-3 days in the city, then a few days exploring the Hill Country towns like Fredericksburg, Wimberley, and New Braunfels.
Are there any good museums for kids?
The Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas, the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi, and the NASA Space Center in Houston are great for families.
Where can I see a ghost town?
There are a number of ghost towns in West Texas, often a detour off the main highways.
What are the best places for live music outside of Austin?
Fort Worth’s Sundance Square and the Stockyards offer many venues. Gruene Hall is a historic dance hall that is a must-visit.
Is it true that it’s okay to wear a cowboy hat?
Yes! It’s Texas. Just don’t wear it inside a building, especially a restaurant, and don’t touch someone else’s hat.
What is the “Devil’s Backbone”?
A scenic and spooky stretch of road in the Texas Hill Country with a reputation for being haunted.
Where can I see bluebonnets?
In the spring (usually late March/April), you can find fields of Texas’s state flower along highways and at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin.
What are some unique historical sites?
The San Jacinto Battlefield and Monument near Houston (site of the final battle of the Texas Revolution), the LBJ Presidential Library in Austin, and the historic missions in San Antonio.
Are there any good hiking spots in the DFW area?
Cedar Hill State Park and Dinosaur Valley State Park are popular for local hiking.
Is Galveston worth visiting?
It’s a historic beach town with a pier and a relaxed vibe, but don’t expect pristine white sand. The historic Strand District is a highlight.
Where can I find unique souvenirs?
Small shops in the Hill Country towns, the Stockyards in Fort Worth, and the touristy areas of Austin and San Antonio. Look for local art, BBQ rubs, and Texas-themed clothing.
More to Come (more questions and answers!)
What’s the tipping culture like in Texas?
Tipping is standard practice, similar to the rest of the US. A tip of 15-20% is customary for restaurant service.
Is it possible to see a professional sports game?
Yes, depending on the season. Texas has a number of professional sports teams, including the Dallas Cowboys (NFL), Texas Rangers (MLB), Houston Astros (MLB), Dallas Mavericks (NBA), and more.
Are there any good water parks?
Schlitterbahn in New Braunfels is a massive, highly-rated water park complex.
Where can I see the bats in Austin?
The Congress Avenue Bridge is home to a massive colony of Mexican free-tailed bats. They emerge at dusk from spring to fall.
What is the best way to get around Houston?
Houston is very car-centric. The MetroRail system is limited and mainly serves downtown and the surrounding areas.
Where can I find a good taco?
Beyond breakfast tacos, Texas is a haven for all kinds of tacos. Houston and Austin have very diverse taco scenes, from traditional to fusion.
What is the “Texas Triangle”?
The area formed by the major metropolitan areas of Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston, and San Antonio-Austin. Most of the state’s population and popular attractions are within this triangle.
Is it safe to hike alone in Big Bend?
The main trails are generally safe, but always be aware of your surroundings, pack extra water, and let someone know your itinerary. The desert heat is a real danger.
What are some unique food stops on a road trip?
Buc-ee’s (of course!), the Czech Stop, and local BBQ joints in small towns.
Can I visit a real ranch?
Yes, there are a number of guest ranches that offer tours and a chance to experience ranch life.
What are the best places for a family vacation?
San Antonio (Riverwalk, zoo, SeaWorld), Dallas (Perot Museum, Dallas World Aquarium), and Houston (NASA, Children’s Museum).
Is the state fair in Dallas worth attending?
Yes, if you’re in town in the fall. It’s an iconic Texas event known for its unique fried foods and “Big Tex” statue.
What are some good spots for photography?
Enchanted Rock, Big Bend, Palo Duro Canyon, and the scenic Hill Country roads.
Are there any famous movie locations in Texas?
Yes, many films have been shot in Texas, including “No Country for Old Men” and “There Will Be Blood” in West Texas.
What is a “honky-tonk”?
A type of bar that provides live country music for dancing. Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth is the most famous.
Where can I see a cattle drive?
At the Fort Worth Stockyards, they have daily cattle drives.
What is the best way to see the Texas State Capitol?
You can take a free guided tour or wander through it on your own.
Are there any good outlet malls in Texas?
Yes, the San Marcos outlets between Austin and San Antonio are massive and very popular.
What’s a “kolache”?
A Czech pastry brought to Texas by immigrants. They can be sweet (fruit) or savory (sausage, cheese). The Czech Stop in West, TX, is famous.
What’s the best place to go fishing in Texas?
The Gulf Coast and various inland lakes and rivers offer fishing opportunities.
Are there any good places to go wine tasting?
Yes, the Texas Hill Country is a growing wine region with numerous wineries around Fredericksburg and Johnson City.
Where can I see a giant statue of Sam Houston?
On Interstate 45 in Huntsville, you’ll pass a 67-foot-tall statue of the famous Texan.
What’s a good place for a romantic getaway?
Fredericksburg with its wineries and charming B&Bs, or a secluded cabin in the Hill Country.
Are there any good places for bird watching?
The Texas coast and Big Bend National Park are major spots on migration paths.
What is the weather like in August?
Hot, hot, hot. Expect temperatures over 100°F in most parts of the state. If you visit, plan your activities around the heat (early morning/late evening).
Where can I find unique street art?
Austin and San Antonio are known for their vibrant street art scenes.
What’s a “Buc-ee’s”?
A massive, beloved Texas gas station with a cult following. They have clean bathrooms, every kind of snack imaginable, and Buc-ee’s branded merchandise. A must-stop on any road trip.
What is the “River Walk” in San Antonio?
A network of walkways along the San Antonio River, lined with restaurants, shops, and bars.
Is there anything to do in Waco?
Waco is home to the Dr. Pepper Museum and the Magnolia Market (for fans of Chip and Joanna Gaines).
What is the most scenic drive in Texas?
FM 170 (The River Road) in West Texas, which follows the Rio Grande through a stunning desert landscape.
Are there any caves in Texas?
Yes, Natural Bridge Caverns near San Antonio is a popular attraction.
What is the largest city in Texas?
Houston.
Where can I see a concert at a famous venue?
The Moody Center in Austin, Toyota Center in Houston, or a show at Gruene Hall.
What is a “longhorn”?
A breed of cattle with very long horns, a symbol of Texas. You can see a herd at Caprock Canyon State Park.
What is the best way to get to Big Bend?
By car. The closest major airports are El Paso and Midland/Odessa, but it’s still a 3-5 hour drive from there.
Can I visit a ghost town?
Yes, Terlingua is a famous ghost town near Big Bend that is worth exploring.
Are there any military museums?
The National Museum of the Pacific War in Fredericksburg is highly rated. The Cavanaugh Flight Museum near Dallas is also recommended.
Is Texas friendly?
Travelers reviews frequently mention the friendliness of Texans. You’ll often be greeted with a “Howdy!”
Is there anything unique about the Texas landscape?
Texas has a surprising variety, from the Gulf Coast beaches to the Piney Woods, the rolling Hill Country, and the vast deserts of West Texas. You’ll see a bit of everything if you travel far enough.