Things to do in Texas

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.