Things to do & places to visit in Texas, United States

Texas has great beaches for bird watching, boating, and fishing. Plus golf courses, cowboy and high art culture, and a rich history. Bask on the beach and bird watch between golf games before, during, or after spring break in Corpus Christi, Port Aransas, Crystal Beach, or South Padre Island. Explore East Texas from Dallas to Tyler, Texarkana, Jefferson, and Nacogdoches. Enjoy golf and big city life in Dallas or Houston. Visit Galveston's coastal Strand. Tour West Texas and Hill Country from San Antonio, New Braunfels, Austin, and Fredericksburg to Amarillo and El Paso.

Texas #5 destination in United States 2023. The average rating score is 4.45 based on 494.6k traveler reviews, of 5.491 attractions. Timezone: America/Chicago, current date and time: Friday, December 08, 2023, 23:42.

Top things to do (39)

Top destinations in Texas 100

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Top places to visit (30 attractions) view more »

5.0 National Museum of the Pacific War (3.841 reviews)
- Insightful and Interesting
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • History Museums

Open Wednesday - Monday. Formerly the Nimitz Museum, the complex is now the only museum in the Continental United States centered on World War II's Pacific campaign. Since 1968, the Museum has expanded to occupy a six-acre campus and gained a reputation as one of the premier military museums in the nation. Over the years the Museum was upgraded and enlarged, and the campus grew to accommodate the Memorial Courtyard, the Plaza of Presidents, and the Japanese Garden of Peace. We opened the expanded George H. W. Bush Gallery in 2009. The Gallery's state-of-the-art 33,000 square foot exhibition features 40 media installations, approximately 900 artifacts in 97 climate-controlled cases, 15 macro-artifacts, and hundreds of photographs. Two blocks east of the main campus is the Pacific Combat Zone. Recently reopened after an $8 million renovation. The PCZ is also home to our popular WWII Pacific Combat Program that takes place on set weekends throughout the year. See more..
4.5 San Antonio River Walk (26.9k reviews)
- A must see; highly recommend!
Scenic Walking Areas

Also known as Paseo del Rio, this 15-mile-long river walk is a must-do in San Antonio. Opt for a self-guided walking or bike tour of the riverside paths, lined with beautiful cypress trees, shops, museums, hotels and of course, Tex-Mex restaurants. But one of the best ways to experience the River Walk is on a hop-on, hop-off cruise, which glides past iconic spots like the Arneson River Theatre, Marriage Island, and the San Antonio Museum of Art. Visit during festivals and holidays like St Patrick's Day and Christmas for exciting river parades and spectacular light illuminations. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 The Alamo (19.6k reviews)
- Book the timed entry online to avoid the lines
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums

Established in 1718 as Mission San Antonio de Valero, for over 300 years the former mission now known as the Alamo has been a crossroads of history. Having existed under six flags of independent nations and served as a garrison for five different armies, the Alamo has a rich history and a heritage to inspire Texans and people around the world. Although the Alamo is best known as the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, all 300 years of Alamo history are vital to our story. Visitors can take a guided battlefield tour, rent a self-guided audio tour, walk through the historic Alamo Church and Long Barrack Museum, listen to a history talk given by an Alamo Interpreter, participate in living history demonstrations, watch a documentary on the history of the Alamo, and much more. Admission to the Alamo is free, but there is a charge for guided and audio tours. See more..
4.5 Space Center Houston (9.735 reviews) from $32.63
- Caution: May Cause Time Travel
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums

Located in the heart of NASA’s spaceflight program, Space Center Houston is a must-visit for fans of space exploration. With more than 400 space-related artefacts and numerous interactive exhibitions, you can easily spend a whole day learning about NASA’s history and current work. Be sure to hop on the tram tour too, which takes you around the real site of the Johnson Space Center, including the original Mission Control room and a behind-the-scenes look at the astronaut training facilities. You might want to join VIP tours by NASA experts to gain a deeper understanding and inside knowledge of the center. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza (9.265 reviews)
- Interesting History
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Speciality Museums

One of Texas’ most visited historic sites, The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza chronicles the life, death and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. The Museum is in the former Texas School Book Depository building, where evidence of a sniper was found after the assassination of President Kennedy on November 22, 1963. Much of the exhibit space looks as it appeared in the 1960s. Highlights include a sniper’s perch, the FBI model used by the Warren Commission, an original teletype machine that first transmitted news of the president’s death, Oswald’s wedding ring, historic films, photos and more. An interactive display overlooks Dealey Plaza. Admission includes an audio guide, available in eight languages including ASL. The museum is open daily except Thanksgiving and Christmas. RECOMMENDED: Buy timed-entry tickets in advance at jfk.org. The most convenient paid parking is adjacent to the building; stay in the far right lane of Elm Street to enter the parking lot. See more..
4.5 Texas State Capitol (7.977 reviews)
- Don't mess with Texas --- Big State Capitol for a Big State
Friday: 7:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Government Buildings

If it's in Texas, it must be bigger and better. That is the motto that architects followed with the Capitol Building in Austin. At one time, it was the tallest capitol building in the nation. Others might be taller now, but this is still a beautiful building that shows off many of the natural resources which are so prevalent in Texas, such as limestone and the landscapes. See more..
4.5 Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens (5.854 reviews)
- A delightful day.
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Parks • Gardens

A nationally acclaimed 66 acre display garden features breathtaking floral displays all year long. Nestled on the shores of White Rock Lake, the Dallas Arboretum was named "One of the Most Breathtaking Gardens in the World" by Architectural Digest. Dallas Blooms festival boasts of over 500,000 spring blooming bulbs, 3,000 azaleas and hundreds of Cherry Blooms-February-April. Summer in the garden includes an outdoor concert series on Thursday evenings and numerous water features with breathtaking floral displays. Autumn at the Arboretum-September-November features a nationally acclaimed Pumpkin Village featuring over 90,000 pumpkins/gourds/squash and named one of America's Best Pumpkin festivals by Fodor's Travel. The 8 acre Rory Meyers Children’s Adventure Garden was designed to connect children with nature. Education is a central focus the gardens mission, which teach life and Earth science with 17 indoor/outdoor galleries and 150 interactive activities - Where science and fun become one. Open seven days a week and Wednesday nights until 8pm from March-October. Seasonal weekday discounts are available. The garden is closed New Year's Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas. See more..
4.5 Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District (5.427 reviews)
- Can't see Longhorns in a Zoo!
Friday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas

Home to cowboys in addition to historic hotels and western-style shopping. See more..
4.5 The Galleria (5.240 reviews)
- Extremely large shopping mall with any store you would want
Friday: 10:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Ballets • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Shopping Malls

More than 26 million visitors each year seek the dynamic & fine shopping environment uniquely offered by The Galleria, Texas’ largest shopping center and fourth largest domain nationally. International guests and Houstonians blend seamlessly in the center while on shopping excursions or entertaining guests at one of the signature eateries. Spanning 2.4 million square feet of space, housing 400 fine stores and restaurants, two high-rise hotels, and three office towers, The Galleria is Houston’s most popular retail and tourist destination, meeting every style and taste. See more..
4.5 The Houston Museum of Natural Science (5.226 reviews) from $13.75
- Good exhibits
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Speciality Museums • Science Museums

This outstanding science museum has a spectacular collection of mineral specimens, a dinosaur skeleton, space-station models, a planetarium, IMAX theater and a six-story butterfly center in which these beautiful creatures land delicately on outstretched arms. See more..
4.5 The Dallas World Aquarium (4.784 reviews)
- Top notch aquarium
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Aquariums

The adventure at The Dallas World Aquarium begins at the top of the rainforest exhibit, where exotic birds, such as Cocks-of-the-rock and many species of toucans, can be seen. Lounging around are Two-toed and Three-toed sloths. Endangered animals, such as Orinoco crocodiles, Giant river otters, Antillean manatees and several species of monkeys are part of the many conservation projects. The aquarium portion displays interesting marine life, including Japanese crabs, jellyfish, Leafy, Weedy and Ribbon seadragons. Black-footed and Blue penguins can be seen swimming as guests enjoy the outdoor South Africa exhibit. Sharks, rays and sawfish are only a few of the fish living in the Mundo Maya cenote. Safe from Neotropical eagles, are euphonias, tanagers and hummingbirds. Reptiles and amphibians, both of significance to the Maya culture, can be seen throughout the exhibit. See more..
4.5 Houston Zoo (4.215 reviews)
- Houston Zoo
Friday: 9:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Zoos

The Houston Zoo provides a fun, unique, and inspirational experience fostering appreciation, knowledge, and care for the natural world. Essentially a small city encompassing a world of ecosystems and experiences, the Houston Zoo is made up of many moving parts. We have over 6000 permanent residents (our animals) for whom we provide housing, meals, medical care and, yes, even education! In addition, we have over 1.84 million guests each year who come to experience our incredible variety of animals and ecosystems, as well as attend special private and public events and entertainment. Our dedicated staff works around the clock to ensure that the Zoo is always running smoothly for the safety and well being of our residents and guests. See more..
4.5 Galveston - Port Bolivar Ferry (4.213 reviews)
- Free, Clean and Fast
Ferries

If you are not staying or fishing over on Bolivar you might not consider taking the ferry ride. What you would be missing by not going is a great view and a free dolphin show as they are constantly playing in the wake and popping up and down all around. At peak season, it might not be high on a list of "must do" things, but after 15+ years living in Houston and making weekend trips down to Galveston, we finally were able to do this. With the relatively light late September crowds, it was well worth it. The ferries are constantly docking and leaving, so the traffic does move, but be prepared for the line up to take at least some time. Get up to the front of the boat and check out the view both from the main car deck as well as the upper passenger deck. See more..
4.5 Reunion Tower (4.116 reviews) from $24.50
- Beautiful sights of Dallas
Friday: 1:00 PM - 8:30 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Lookouts • Observation Decks & Towers

Reunion Tower, an iconic Dallas landmark, offers panoramic 360-degree views of the Dallas skyline. Located next to the Hyatt Regency Dallas, the Reunion Tower GeO-Deck offers an indoor/outdoor observation deck and unique entertaining spaces. Visit with family, friends, a group or your sweetheart to create unforgettable memories at 470 feet in the air! * Restaurants are currently closed for renovations. See more..
4.5 AT&T Stadium (3.988 reviews)
- Awesome Tour Even If You Are Not A Cowboy's Fan!
Arenas & Stadiums

Take a tour of the home of the Dallas Cowboys (American) football team. See more..
4.5 Natural Bridge Caverns (3.978 reviews)
- Well worth spelunking
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Caverns & Caves

Natural Bridge Caverns is one of Texas’ largest underground attractions that is best explored on a guided tour. The Discovery Tour takes you through the most spectacular part of the caverns 180 feet underground, whilst the Hidden Passages tour shows you a system of huge underground chambers—or experience both on a combo tour. Otherwise, navigate the outdoor Twisted Trails rope course, find your way out of the AMAZEn’ Ranch Roundup maze, and pan for fossils at the Mining Company. Don’t miss the festivities during the holidays, which include the light-ups and a cozy campfire. For additional discounts, book your tickets online in advance. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum (3.852 reviews)
- Fascinating!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums

Get an in-depth, interactive look at eight years of presidential history at America's 13th presidential library and museum. Explore important issues and events of the administration of President George W. Bush as framed by four themes: freedom, opportunity, compassion and responsibility. NEW FOR 2016: Step into the candidates' shoes in "PATH TO THE PRESIDENCY," a special exhibit on the history of campaigns and elections in the United States. Extend your visit with a stroll through the 15-acre Native Texas Park, enjoy a meal at Café 43, and take home a piece of the presidency from the Museum Store. See more..
4.5 San Antonio River (3.669 reviews)
- Stayed on the riverwalk.
Bodies of Water

Scenic river winds through the town of San Antonio. See more..
4.5 Perot Museum of Nature and Science (3.591 reviews)
- nice couple hours
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Speciality Museums

Everything from dinosaurs to DNA to diamonds are packed into five levels of hands-on discovery and adventure. Prepare to amaze your brain. See more..
4.5 LBJ Presidential Library (3.476 reviews)
- Presidential Library
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Speciality Museums • History Museums

The Lyndon Baines Johnson Library and Museum, also known as the LBJ Presidential Library, is the presidential library and museum of Lyndon Baines Johnson, the 36th President of the United States. It is one of fourteen presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and located on the campus of The University of Texas at Austin. We are open daily (except for Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day) from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., with the last admission at 4:00 p.m. Admission is $3-$13 per person, with free admission given to children 12 and under, active military, student groups, and UT Austin students, faculty, and staff with valid ID. Free parking is available in visitor lot #38. Learn more at lbjlibrary.org. See more..
4.5 Mission San Jose (3.466 reviews)
- Beautiful and Historic - And on the VIA Missions Bus Route!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Missions

Founded in 1720, this Spanish frontier mission, the largest of the five San Antonio missions, is best known for its rose window. On Sundays, this Texas and U.S. National historic site offers a mariachi mass. See more..
4.5 USS Lexington Museum (3.435 reviews)
- A July 4th celebration aboard USS Lexington!
Friday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Military Museums • History Museums

Visitors can tour the longest serving Essex Class aircraft carrier of World War II. The 16-deck "Blue Ghost" displays military artifacts and more than 20 aircraft. See all five tour routes, 3-D mega theater, Lockdown on the LEX Escape Rooms, mess deck eatery and flight simulator. National Historic Landmark located on North Beach. Elevator from the hangar deck to the flight deck. Welcome aboard! Labor Day - Memorial Day 9am - 5pm Memorial Day - Labor Day & Spring Break 9am - 6pm See admission at https://usslexington.com/visit/hours-admission/ See more..
4.5 Minute Maid Park (3.204 reviews)
- Nice, enjoyable Ballpark
Arenas & Stadiums

Took a tour of this ballpark during a layover in flights. Took about 20 minutes from the airport and easy access from the highway. Nice ballpark and they give lots of tour options to choose from. I did the quick photos only tour which was meant for those that had limited time on their hands and wanted to still see the ballpark. Definitely recommend it - $10 and gets you to check out the field and the tour guide gives a brief overview of the stadium. See more..
4.5 Sea Turtle, Inc. (3.119 reviews)
- Visit with the turtles
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas

Ila Loetscher, the "Turtle Lady of South Padre Island", originally formed our organization to save the Kemp's ridley sea turtle in 1977. Now we are a sea turtle hospital with a mission to rehabilitate and release any injured sea turtles, increase awareness concerning their safety and habitat, and assist with conservation efforts for all sea turtle species. We are funded by donations, grants and gift shop proceeds-- For rehabilitated sea turtle and hatchling release text message notifications, please see our website membership page. See you at Sea Turtle, Inc.! See more..
4.5 The Strand (3.095 reviews)
- We enjoyed walking around, shopping, eating, drinking.
Friday: 8:30 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Walking Areas

The Strand is a charming historic district in Galveston, lined with ornate late 1800s buildings and filled with restaurants, art galleries, museums, shops, bars, and more. Here, you try some old-school candy at La King’s Confectionery, shop for souvenirs, visit the Pier 21 theater, take a horse-drawn carriage, or learn about history at the Railroad Museum. Explore the area on a segway tour, or uncover its dark side on a ghost tour. Plan your visit during Mardi Gras in February when The Strand is taken over with parades, music, and parties. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 The Seawall (2.921 reviews)
- Beautiful walk any time of day
Historic Walking Areas

Walk along this eight-mile seawall built to protect Galveston from the raging winds and waters of the Gulf of Mexico. See more..
4.5 Barton Springs Pool (2.770 reviews)
- Fun day in the sun with the family
Friday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Bodies of Water • Hot Springs & Geysers

Pull off a cannonball jump at this three-acre swimming pool in Zilker Park. Fed by natural underground springs with an average temperature of 68 degrees Fahrenheit year-round, this limestone pool is a lovely respite from the scorching Texan summers. Switch between tanning on the lawns and swimming in the chilly waters. Plan your visit though as admission is only free in the early morning and late at night. Nominal fees are collected in between. The pool is closed for cleaning on some days, so it’s best to check ahead. Visit on weekdays for fewer crowds. – Tripadvisor See more..
4.5 Bullock Texas State History Museum (2.758 reviews)
- A Fantastic Must-See!
Friday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours History Museums

The Bullock Texas State History Museum is the state's official history museum and features three floors of exhibition galleries, IMAX® Theatre, Texas Spirit Theater, Story of Texas Cafe, and Bullock Museum Store. See more..
4.5 Museum of Fine Arts, Houston (2.751 reviews)
- A Wonderful Place to Spend the Day
Friday: 10:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Art Museums

The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston, is the largest cultural institution in the southwest region of the United States. The Museum’s encyclopedic collections of nearly 70,000 objects cover world cultures dating from antiquity to the present and include in-depth holdings of American art, European paintings, Pre-Columbian and African gold, decorative arts and design, photography, prints and drawings, 20th- and 21st-century painting and sculpture, and Latin American art. See more..
4.5 Lady Bird Lake Hike-and-Bike Trail (2.733 reviews)
- The of Downtown Austin at the Lady Bird Lake
Hiking Trails

Scenic trail through lush green parks and peaceful lakes: a great place to bike, hike and run. See more..