Things to do in Texas: Based on NeemTime research from most popular to just popular.
The Alamo, Texas
Overview: The Alamo is a historic Spanish mission and the site of a pivotal 1836 battle in the Texas Revolution.
History: Originally built in the 18th century, it became famous for the Battle of the Alamo, where Texan defenders fought against Mexican forces.
Since When: Established in 1718, with its battle occurring in 1836.
Review: Visitors find it a deeply moving experience, rich in history and cultural significance.
When to Go: Best visited in the cooler months of fall and spring for comfortable temperatures.
How to Go: Located in downtown San Antonio, easily accessible by public transportation or car.
What to Do: Explore the mission, visit the museum, and learn about the Texas Revolution.
Free or Paid: Admission to the Alamo Church is free, with paid options for guided tours and exhibits.
Space Center Houston, Texas
Overview: Space Center Houston is a premier science and space exploration center, serving as the official visitor center for NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
History: Opened in 1992, it provides an interactive learning experience about America’s space exploration history.
Since When: Established in 1992.
Review: It’s highly rated for its engaging exhibits, including real spacecraft, space artifacts, and educational programs.
When to Go: Open year-round, best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located in Houston, it’s accessible by car with ample parking available.
What to Do: Explore NASA’s Mission Control, tour exhibits, and participate in interactive space-related activities.
Free or Paid: Paid admission is required.
AT&T Stadium, Texas
Overview: AT&T Stadium is a multi-purpose stadium known for being the home of the Dallas Cowboys and for hosting major sports and entertainment events.
History: Opened in 2009, it is one of the largest and most technologically advanced stadiums in the world.
Since When: Opened in 2009.
Review: Visitors praise its impressive architecture and state-of-the-art facilities, making it a must-see for sports fans.
When to Go: The stadium is open year-round, but best to visit on game days or during major events.
How to Go: Located in Arlington, Texas, it’s accessible by car, with public transportation options available for major events.
What to Do: Attend NFL games, concerts, or take guided stadium tours to see behind-the-scenes areas.
Free or Paid: Paid admission for events or tours.
San Antonio River Walk, Texas
Overview: The San Antonio River Walk is a scenic urban waterway lined with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions.
History: Originally constructed in the 1930s as a flood control measure, it has since evolved into a popular tourist destination.
Since When: Developed in the 1930s and expanded over the decades.
Review: Visitors enjoy the vibrant atmosphere, beautiful scenery, and variety of dining and entertainment options.
When to Go: Best enjoyed in the spring or fall when the weather is pleasant for walking.
How to Go: Located in downtown San Antonio, it’s easily walkable and accessible by public transportation.
What to Do: Stroll along the river, dine at waterfront restaurants, and take a boat tour.
Free or Paid: Free to walk, with paid options for boat tours and some attractions.
Six Flags Over Texas, Texas
Overview: Six Flags Over Texas is a popular amusement park featuring roller coasters, family rides, and entertainment.
History: Opened in 1961, it was the first park in the Six Flags chain and remains a top destination for thrill-seekers.
Since When: Operating since 1961.
Review: Visitors love its diverse range of attractions, from extreme coasters to family-friendly rides.
When to Go: Best to visit in the spring or fall to avoid the summer heat and large crowds.
How to Go: Located in Arlington, Texas, it’s easily accessible by car and has ample parking.
What to Do: Enjoy roller coasters, live shows, and seasonal events like Fright Fest.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Kemah Boardwalk, Texas
Overview: Kemah Boardwalk is a waterfront amusement area with rides, dining, and entertainment, offering beautiful views of Galveston Bay.
History: Originally a small fishing town, Kemah has transformed into a tourist destination, with the boardwalk opening in 1998.
Since When: Opened in 1998.
Review: It’s praised for its family-friendly atmosphere, seaside views, and variety of attractions.
When to Go: Ideal to visit in the spring or fall for pleasant weather and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Located southeast of Houston, it’s accessible by car with parking available on-site.
What to Do: Ride roller coasters, enjoy waterfront dining, and take boat rides.
Free or Paid: Free to enter; rides and attractions require tickets.
SeaWorld San Antonio, Texas
Overview: SeaWorld San Antonio is a marine theme park known for its animal shows, aquariums, and thrill rides.
History: Opened in 1988, it’s one of the largest marine-life theme parks in the world.
Since When: Operating since 1988.
Review: Visitors appreciate the mix of marine life exhibits and high-adrenaline rides, offering something for all ages.
When to Go: Best visited in the spring or early summer for comfortable temperatures.
How to Go: Located in San Antonio, it’s accessible by car with parking available on-site.
What to Do: Watch live shows, ride roller coasters, and visit animal exhibits.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Texas
Overview: Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a theme park in San Antonio offering thrilling rides, live entertainment, and water park attractions.
History: Opened in 1992, it was originally built to celebrate Texas culture before joining the Six Flags chain.
Since When: Opened in 1992.
Review: Visitors love the wide range of roller coasters and the adjacent water park, making it great for families and thrill-seekers alike.
When to Go: Visit during the spring or fall for cooler weather and manageable crowds.
How to Go: Located in San Antonio, it’s accessible by car with parking available.
What to Do: Ride coasters, enjoy live shows, and cool off at the water park.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Houston Museum of Natural Science, Texas
Overview: The Houston Museum of Natural Science is a premier museum featuring exhibits on dinosaurs, space, and wildlife.
History: Founded in 1909, it has grown into one of the most visited museums in the United States.
Since When: Opened in 1909.
Review: Visitors appreciate its world-class exhibits, particularly the dinosaur skeletons and planetarium.
When to Go: Open year-round, best visited on weekdays to avoid crowds.
How to Go: Located in Hermann Park, Houston, it’s accessible by car, public transit, or bike.
What to Do: Explore exhibits on ancient history, astronomy, wildlife, and more.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
The Dallas World Aquarium, Texas
Overview: The Dallas World Aquarium houses a wide variety of marine life, birds, and exotic animals in unique exhibits.
History: Opened in 1992, it has since become a popular family attraction, known for its immersive habitats.
Since When: Opened in 1992.
Review: Visitors love the diverse range of animals and the rainforest-like atmosphere.
When to Go: Best visited in the morning or weekdays to avoid the crowds.
How to Go: Located in downtown Dallas, it’s accessible by car or public transit.
What to Do: Explore aquatic and land animal exhibits, including rare species and interactive displays.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, Texas
Overview: The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a 66-acre public garden offering beautiful seasonal floral displays and scenic lakeside views.
History: Established in 1984, it is situated on the former DeGolyer estate and has grown into one of the top botanical gardens in the U.S.
Since When: Open to the public since 1984.
Review: Visitors praise the garden’s peaceful atmosphere and stunning seasonal exhibits, including the Pumpkin Village in the fall.
When to Go: Best visited in the spring and fall for the colorful seasonal blooms and comfortable temperatures.
How to Go: Located near White Rock Lake in Dallas, it’s accessible by car with on-site parking available.
What to Do: Explore themed gardens, attend seasonal festivals, and stroll along the scenic paths by the lake.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Fort Worth Stockyards, Texas
Overview: The Fort Worth Stockyards is a historic district preserving Texas’ rich cattle-driving heritage, featuring daily cattle drives and Western-themed attractions.
History: Established in the late 1800s as a livestock market, it became a central hub for cattle trade in the region.
Since When: Functioning as a historic and cultural destination since the early 1900s.
Review: Visitors love the authentic Old West atmosphere, with highlights like the daily cattle drives and rodeo shows.
When to Go: Visit in the spring or fall for pleasant weather and to experience the full range of events.
How to Go: Located in Fort Worth, it’s easily accessible by car or public transit.
What to Do: Watch the cattle drives, explore the cowboy museum, enjoy live music, and shop for Western wear.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, but certain attractions and events may require tickets.
Dallas Zoo, Texas
Overview: The Dallas Zoo is one of the largest zoos in Texas, featuring over 2,000 animals and numerous interactive exhibits.
History: Founded in 1888, it has expanded into a major attraction offering educational programs and conservation initiatives.
Since When: Opened in 1888.
Review: Visitors appreciate the zoo’s spacious enclosures and diverse animal exhibits, particularly the Giants of the Savanna habitat.
When to Go: Best visited during the cooler months of spring and fall for a more enjoyable experience.
How to Go: Located just south of downtown Dallas, it’s accessible by car or public transit.
What to Do: See exotic animals, ride the monorail, and participate in animal feedings and educational programs.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Perot Museum of Nature and Science, Texas
Overview: The Perot Museum of Nature and Science is a modern museum offering hands-on exhibits focused on earth science, space, engineering, and biology.
History: Opened in 2012, it was funded by a significant donation from the Perot family and designed to inspire curiosity in science and technology.
Since When: Opened in 2012.
Review: Visitors are impressed by the museum’s interactive exhibits and educational value, making it ideal for both children and adults.
When to Go: Open year-round, but weekdays are less crowded, making it easier to enjoy the exhibits.
How to Go: Located in downtown Dallas, it is accessible by car, public transit, or bike.
What to Do: Explore the dinosaur hall, conduct hands-on science experiments, and experience the 3D theater.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Moody Gardens, Texas
Overview: Moody Gardens is a family-friendly educational attraction featuring pyramids focused on rainforests, aquariums, and 3D theaters.
History: Opened in 1986, it was created to provide an educational experience blending nature, science, and fun activities.
Since When: Officially opened to the public in 1986.
Review: Visitors enjoy the diverse attractions, especially the aquarium pyramid, which houses fascinating marine life.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or fall for comfortable weather and fewer crowds.
How to Go: Located in Galveston, Texas, it’s accessible by car with on-site parking available.
What to Do: Explore the rainforest and aquarium pyramids, enjoy 3D and 4D theaters, and relax on Palm Beach during the summer.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required for the attractions.
Klyde Warren Park, Texas
Overview: Klyde Warren Park is an urban green space built over a freeway, offering recreational areas, food trucks, and cultural events.
History: Opened in 2012, the park was built to connect downtown Dallas with uptown by constructing a park over a highway.
Since When: Opened in October 2012.
Review: Visitors appreciate the park’s vibrant atmosphere, regular events, and variety of food trucks.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or fall when outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
How to Go: Located in downtown Dallas, the park is accessible by foot, public transit, or car with nearby parking.
What to Do: Attend free fitness classes, explore the playground, visit food trucks, or enjoy live music performances.
Free or Paid: Free to enter.
Choctaw Stadium, Texas
Overview: Choctaw Stadium is a multi-purpose sports and event venue, formerly home to the Texas Rangers baseball team.
History: Built in 1994 as the Ballpark in Arlington, it was later renamed and repurposed after the Rangers moved to a new stadium.
Since When: Opened in April 1994.
Review: Visitors enjoy the stadium’s nostalgic design and variety of events, from sports to concerts.
When to Go: Visit during scheduled sporting events or concerts for the best experience.
How to Go: Located in Arlington, Texas, it’s accessible by car with ample parking nearby.
What to Do: Attend sporting events, concerts, or other entertainment shows hosted at the stadium.
Free or Paid: Paid entry for events.
Brackenridge Park, Texas
Overview: Brackenridge Park is a historic public park in San Antonio featuring walking trails, picnic areas, and access to the San Antonio Zoo.
History: Established in 1899, it was a gift to the city from philanthropist George Brackenridge.
Since When: Open to the public since 1899.
Review: Visitors love its scenic beauty, walking trails, and proximity to attractions like the San Antonio Zoo.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or fall for comfortable weather and outdoor activities.
How to Go: Located near downtown San Antonio, it’s accessible by car or public transit.
What to Do: Walk along scenic trails, enjoy a picnic, visit the zoo, or explore historic landmarks within the park.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, but some attractions like the zoo require paid admission.
Texas State Aquarium, Texas
Overview: The Texas State Aquarium is a large aquarium dedicated to marine conservation and home to a variety of aquatic species.
History: Opened in 1995, the aquarium was created to promote awareness and conservation of the Gulf of Mexico’s wildlife.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1995.
Review: Visitors praise its well-maintained exhibits and interactive experiences, including dolphin shows and touch tanks.
When to Go: Open year-round, but weekdays are less crowded for a more relaxed visit.
How to Go: Located in Corpus Christi, Texas, it’s accessible by car with on-site parking available.
What to Do: Explore marine exhibits, watch dolphin shows, interact with touch tanks, and visit the 4D theater.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Natural Bridge Caverns, Texas
Overview: Natural Bridge Caverns is a vast underground network of limestone caves offering guided tours and adventure activities.
History: Discovered in 1960 by four college students, the caverns were named after the 60-foot natural limestone bridge spanning the entrance.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1964.
Review: Visitors love the awe-inspiring stalactites and stalagmites, calling it a must-see for cave enthusiasts.
When to Go: Best visited in spring or fall to avoid the heat, though the caves maintain a constant temperature year-round.
How to Go: Located near San Antonio, Texas, it’s accessible by car with ample parking on-site.
What to Do: Take guided tours of the caverns, zip-line, explore the ropes course, or pan for gems.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Hemisfair, Texas
Overview: Hemisfair is a cultural and recreational park in downtown San Antonio, originally built for the 1968 World’s Fair.
History: The area was redeveloped for the 1968 HemisFair, which celebrated San Antonio’s 250th anniversary.
Since When: Opened in 1968 and revitalized over the years as a public park and cultural space.
Review: Visitors enjoy the beautiful landscapes, playgrounds, and the park’s proximity to the iconic Tower of the Americas.
When to Go: Year-round, but spring and fall offer the best weather for outdoor exploration.
How to Go: Located in downtown San Antonio, it’s easily accessible by public transit or car with parking nearby.
What to Do: Explore green spaces, attend cultural events, visit the Tower of the Americas, or enjoy the splash pads and playgrounds.
Free or Paid: Free to enter, but some attractions within the park, like the Tower of the Americas, require paid admission.
USS Lexington, Texas
Overview: The USS Lexington is a retired aircraft carrier turned into a naval museum on the Gulf Coast in Corpus Christi.
History: Commissioned during World War II in 1943, the USS Lexington earned the nickname “The Blue Ghost” for surviving multiple attacks.
Since When: Opened as a museum in 1992.
Review: Visitors are fascinated by the ship’s history and interactive exhibits, offering a unique look into naval aviation.
When to Go: Best visited year-round, but weekdays are quieter for a more intimate experience.
How to Go: Located in Corpus Christi, Texas, it’s accessible by car with parking available near the museum.
What to Do: Explore the ship’s decks, interactive exhibits, flight simulators, and the vintage aircraft on display.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Fort Worth Zoo, Texas
Overview: The Fort Worth Zoo is one of Texas’s oldest and most renowned zoos, housing a wide variety of animal species.
History: Opened in 1909, it has grown from a small collection of animals to one of the top-rated zoos in the United States.
Since When: Opened in 1909.
Review: Visitors rave about the diverse habitats and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great day out for kids and adults alike.
When to Go: Open year-round, but spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather for exploring the zoo.
How to Go: Located in Fort Worth, Texas, it’s easily accessible by car, with parking available.
What to Do: Explore exhibits featuring everything from exotic birds to large mammals, take a train ride, or enjoy the petting zoo.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Japanese Tea Garden, Texas
Overview: The Japanese Tea Garden is a serene public garden in San Antonio, featuring koi ponds, stone bridges, and a pagoda.
History: Originally a limestone rock quarry, it was transformed into a Japanese-style garden in 1919 by city parks commissioner Ray Lambert.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1919.
Review: Visitors praise the peaceful atmosphere and beautifully maintained gardens, making it a tranquil escape in the city.
When to Go: Best visited in spring when the flowers are in full bloom, though it’s open year-round.
How to Go: Located in Brackenridge Park, San Antonio, it’s easily accessible by car with parking available nearby.
What to Do: Stroll through the gardens, take photos by the waterfall, and enjoy the beauty of the koi-filled ponds.
Free or Paid: Free to enter.
Reunion Tower, Texas
Overview: Reunion Tower is an iconic observation deck offering panoramic views of downtown Dallas.
History: Completed in 1978, it’s known for its distinctive geodesic dome, part of the Hyatt Regency Hotel complex.
Since When: Opened to the public in 1978.
Review: Visitors love the 360-degree views and the interactive touch screens that provide details about landmarks.
When to Go: Best at sunset or night for spectacular city views.
How to Go: Located in downtown Dallas, it’s accessible by car or public transit, with parking available.
What to Do: Enjoy the observation deck, dine at the rotating restaurant, and explore interactive exhibits.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Fort Worth Water Gardens, Texas
Overview: The Fort Worth Water Gardens is a modernist urban park featuring a series of unique water features.
History: Designed by renowned architects Philip Johnson and John Burgee, it opened as part of the 1974 urban revitalization project.
Since When: Opened in 1974.
Review: Visitors are captivated by the blend of tranquility and energy, especially the active, aerating, and quiet pools.
When to Go: Open year-round, but best visited on warm, sunny days to enjoy the refreshing ambiance.
How to Go: Located in downtown Fort Worth, it’s easily accessible by car or public transit.
What to Do: Explore the different pools, walk along the cascading waterfalls, or simply relax in the peaceful environment.
Free or Paid: Free to enter.
Cadillac Ranch, Texas
Overview: Cadillac Ranch is a public art installation in Amarillo featuring half-buried, graffiti-covered Cadillacs.
History: Created in 1974 by the art collective Ant Farm as a tribute to the evolution of the Cadillac tail fin.
Since When: Installed in 1974.
Review: Visitors love the quirky, interactive nature of the site, with many adding their own graffiti to the cars.
When to Go: Open year-round, best visited during daylight for photo opportunities.
How to Go: Located along Route 66 near Amarillo, Texas, accessible by car.
What to Do: Bring your spray paint and add your mark to the Cadillacs, or just explore the vibrant colors and unique concept.
Free or Paid: Free to visit.
The Escape Game Austin, Texas
Overview: The Escape Game Austin offers immersive escape room experiences where groups solve puzzles to “escape” themed rooms.
History: Part of the popular nationwide Escape Game franchise, known for its high-quality, immersive experiences.
Since When: Opened in Austin in the mid-2010s.
Review: Highly rated for its challenging puzzles, creativity, and fun for groups of friends or family.
When to Go: Open year-round, ideal for rainy days or evening entertainment.
How to Go: Located in downtown Austin, easily accessible by car or public transport.
What to Do: Choose from various themed escape rooms, collaborate with your team to solve clues, and try to beat the clock.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
Dallas Museum of Art, Texas
Overview: The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the largest art museums in the U.S., offering a vast collection of artworks spanning thousands of years.
History: Established in 1903, the museum has grown to house over 24,000 works from ancient to contemporary art.
Since When: Opened in its current location in 1984.
Review: Visitors appreciate the diverse collection, engaging exhibits, and the fact that general admission is free.
When to Go: Open year-round, with late hours on select days for evening visits.
How to Go: Located in the Dallas Arts District, accessible by car or public transit.
What to Do: Explore permanent collections, attend special exhibitions, and participate in educational programs.
Free or Paid: General admission is free, but special exhibitions may require paid tickets.
San Antonio Aquarium, Texas
Overview: The San Antonio Aquarium offers interactive marine and wildlife experiences, from fish to reptiles.
History: Opened in 2014, the aquarium focuses on interactive exhibits and family-friendly educational experiences.
Since When: Opened in 2014.
Review: Visitors enjoy the hands-on experiences, like feeding stingrays and holding exotic animals, making it a hit with families.
When to Go: Open year-round, ideal for indoor activities on hot or rainy days.
How to Go: Located in northwest San Antonio, accessible by car with ample parking.
What to Do: Explore marine life, feed various species, hold exotic birds, or enjoy interactive displays.
Free or Paid: Paid admission required.
The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, Texas
Overview: The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is one of the largest art museums in the U.S., showcasing a vast collection spanning various cultures and periods.
History: Founded in 1900, the museum has grown into a major cultural institution with over 70,000 works of art.
Since When: The museum has been in operation since 1900, with expansions and renovations throughout the decades.
Review: Visitors praise its extensive and diverse collections, beautiful architecture, and rotating world-class exhibitions.
When to Go: Open year-round, with quieter weekdays and special late hours on select days.
How to Go: Located in Houston’s Museum District, it’s accessible by car, light rail, or bus, with parking available on-site.
What to Do: Explore ancient to contemporary art collections, attend special exhibitions, and participate in workshops or guided tours.
Free or Paid: Paid admission is required, though there are free entry options on select days and for children under 12.
External links
371 Cool and Unusual Things to Do in Texas
50 cool things to do in Texas with kids – Austin
Texas Attractions
THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Texas
THE TOP 15 Things To Do in Texas
Things to Do in Houston | Attractions, Places to Visit & …
Top Things to Do & Explore in Texas