10 Popular Tourists Places in Texas to Visit

When you think of Texas, a few things probably spring to mind—cowboy hats, BBQ, maybe even NASA. But beyond the stereotypes, Texas is full of surprises. Whether you're into nature, food, music, or history, there’s probably a corner of this state you’ll fall in love with. In fact, one trip won’t be enough... because Texas is massive. Like, drive-for-10-hours-and-you're-still-in-Texas massive.

So, if you’re planning a trip and wondering what are some popular tourists places in Texas, this guide might just save you hours of Googling. Or at least give you a solid place to start.

It might be a little touristy, but... there's a reason it became touristy in the first place. The San Antonio River Walk winds through the heart of downtown, lined with restaurants, art galleries, and live music spots. It feels like a hidden world beneath the city.

Sure, it can get crowded—especially in peak season—but there's a certain charm in that buzz. You can hop on a riverboat cruise, sip a frozen margarita at a riverside café, or just walk quietly and let the mix of water, stone, and color soak in.

Pro Tip: Visit at night when the lights reflect off the water—somehow it feels more cinematic than during the day.

You can’t talk about popular tourists places in Texas and not mention The Alamo. It’s practically Texas 101. While the structure itself isn’t as grand as people sometimes imagine (don’t expect a castle), the weight of history it holds is... well, heavy.

Standing there, it’s hard not to think about the 1836 battle and the people who died defending it. The site is well-maintained, free to enter, and surprisingly emotional if you pause long enough to absorb what it stands for.

You don’t need hours here. But you should go.

Now this one? It’s for the souls who crave quiet. Space. Sky. Big Bend National Park sits in West Texas and feels like it belongs on another planet.

You’ll find canyons carved by the Rio Grande, deserts that stretch for miles, and nights where the stars actually show off. And it's not just hiking—there’s kayaking, bird watching, even hot springs.

Quick List of Things to Do in Big Bend:

• Hike the Lost Mine Trail

• Soak in the Boquillas Hot Springs

• Stargaze at Chisos Basin

• Drive the scenic Ross Maxwell loop

It’s remote—like, prepare-for-no-cell-signal remote—but maybe that’s the point.

Austin claims to be the “Live Music Capital of the World” and, honestly, it kind of lives up to the hype. Walk around downtown and there’s always something spilling out of a bar—blues, indie, country... maybe even a genre that doesn’t have a name yet.

6th Street is the obvious spot, but South Congress (SoCo) and East Austin have an edgier vibe if that’s more your thing. And don’t forget to check out local festivals like Austin City Limits or SXSW if the timing lines up.

There’s a certain rawness here that feels less polished, more alive. Even if music isn’t “your thing,” it’s hard not to get swept up in it.

Houston might surprise you. People don’t always think of it as a cultural hotspot, but its Museum District is stacked. And by stacked, I mean 19 museums within a compact area.

If you’re into science, space, or art, you’ll find something. A few standouts:

• Houston Museum of Natural Science – dinosaur skeletons and a butterfly center

• Museum of Fine Arts – more than 70,000 works

• Children’s Museum Houston – if you're traveling with kids

Plus, many museums offer free admission on Thursdays. So... maybe plan accordingly?

Not every beach in Texas is Instagram-worthy, but Galveston does have its own charm. There’s a historic pier, colorful Victorian architecture, and even haunted mansions (if that’s your vibe).

Honestly, it’s a little kitschy. A bit weathered. But that’s also part of its identity. You come here for casual strolls along the seawall, to eat seafood that’s probably been swimming just hours ago, and maybe to feel that warm, muggy breeze.

List of Galveston Highlights:

• Moody Gardens

• Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

• The Strand Historic District

• Schlitterbahn Waterpark

Not bad for a weekend escape.

Pro Tip: Want to turn your trip into a romantic getaway? Check out these all-inclusive romantic getaways across Texas.

Dallas is often pegged as sleek and corporate, but the Arts District cracks that image open. It’s one of the largest urban arts districts in the U.S., with bold architecture and some serious artistic clout.

The Nasher Sculpture Center, Dallas Museum of Art, and the Winspear Opera House are just a few reasons to drop by.

And even if you're not a gallery-goer, just walking around the area... it kind of pulls you in. There’s this clean, modern energy to it that makes you feel like you’re in a creative capital, not just another city.

This one’s a little wild—literally. The Fort Worth Stockyards are like stepping into a Western film, except it’s real, and there’s the faint smell of hay in the air.

Twice a day, longhorn cattle are herded down the brick-paved streets in a real cattle drive. It’s more for show now, of course, but still—there’s something oddly powerful about it.

You can catch a rodeo, visit saloons that don’t feel like cheap props, and watch cowboys (actual ones) just... doing their thing. Fort Worth leans into its cowboy heritage unapologetically, and you know what? It kind of works.

Pro Tip: Stay for the live music in the evening. It’s touristy, yes, but with just enough grit to feel authentic.

If you're after nature without neon lights or food trucks every 100 feet, Padre Island National Seashore is the place. It's one of the longest stretches of undeveloped barrier island in the world—yep, the world.

Sea turtles nest here. Birds migrate through. And most of the time, there’s barely a crowd. You can camp right on the sand, wake up to sunrise over the Gulf, and fall asleep to nothing but wind and waves.

And while South Padre gets all the party buzz, the National Seashore is quieter, more peaceful… more alive, in a way.

You might need a 4WD vehicle if you want to explore further down the beach, but it’s worth the extra prep.

Last on the list, but definitely not least—Guadalupe Mountains National Park. It’s not as famous as Big Bend, and maybe that’s why it feels a bit like a secret.

Here, you’ll find Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas. The hike up is doable for most fit travelers, but it’s not easy. Bring water. And maybe patience.

What makes this park special isn’t just the mountains—it’s the mix of desert, canyon, forest, and fossilized reef all in one place. That kind of ecological variety doesn’t show up everywhere.

Popular Trails:

• Guadalupe Peak Trail

• Devil’s Hall Trail

• McKittrick Canyon (especially in fall)

There’s no flashy visitor center or manicured photo spots. It’s raw Texas, untouched and untamed.

So, there you have it—10 popular tourists places in Texas that prove this state isn’t just boots and brisket (though, fair warning... there’s a lot of that too).

Texas is weird in the best way possible. You can go from stargazing in the desert one night to floating down a river with a taco in hand the next.

Some spots are flashy. Others are slow and quiet. A few feel like time forgot them entirely. But that’s the thing—Texas doesn’t try to fit into a box, and maybe that’s why people keep coming back.

Whether you’re chasing culture, craving a road trip, or just curious to see what all the fuss is about, there’s a good chance Texas will surprise you.

Or at the very least… give you something to remember.

1. What is the most visited tourist destination in Texas?
The San Antonio River Walk is consistently one of the most visited spots in the state.

2. Are there any beaches worth visiting in Texas?
Yes, Galveston and Padre Island both offer enjoyable beach experiences.

3. Is Big Bend National Park safe for solo travelers?
Yes, but it’s remote, so always carry water and let someone know your plans.

4. What's the best time to visit Texas for tourism?
Spring (March–May) and fall (October–November) offer pleasant weather.

5. Are Texas museums kid-friendly?
Many, like the Houston Museum of Natural Science, are great for families and kids.

6. Can I see real cowboys in Texas?
Yes, especially in Fort Worth Stockyards during daily cattle drives.

7. Is Austin only known for music?
No, Austin also offers great food, outdoor activities, and quirky culture.

8. How many national parks are in Texas?
There are two official national parks: Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains.

9. Is it easy to travel between cities in Texas?
Distances are long, but highways are good; a rental car is highly recommended.

10. Are there budget-friendly tourist spots in Texas?
Absolutely—many parks, museums (on free days), and natural sites are very affordable.