4 Star Places To Visit in Texas, United States (50)
4.5San 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. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5The Alamo(19.6k reviews) - Book the timed entry online to avoid the lines Monday: 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..
4.5Space Center Houston(9.735 reviews)from $32.63 - Caution: May Cause Time Travel Monday: 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. – TripadvisorSee more..
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..
4.5Texas State Capitol(7.977 reviews) - Don't mess with Texas --- Big State Capitol for a Big State Monday: 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..
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..
Home to cowboys in addition to historic hotels and western-style shopping.See more..
4.5The Galleria(5.240 reviews) - Extremely large shopping mall with any store you would want Monday: 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..
4.5The Houston Museum of Natural Science(5.226 reviews)from $13.75 - Good exhibits Monday: 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..
4.5The Dallas World Aquarium(4.784 reviews) - Top notch aquarium Monday: 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..
4.0SeaWorld(4.748 reviews) - Go to Six Flags instead Monday: Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Immerse yourself in the wonders of the sea. Experience up-close animal interactions and dive into the world beneath the waves on thrilling rides, like the Great White coaster. Enjoy awe-inspiring shows like the beautiful and powerful One Ocean(R) featuring Shamu(R), or laugh along at our comical show Pets Ahoy, featuring locally-rescued animals. And don't miss the all-new Discovery Point, where you can experience dolphins through nose-to-bottlenose encounters. Together through inspiration, education and personal animal connections we can make a difference in the natural world we share. Discover your memories that will last a lifetime at SeaWorld(R) San Antonio.See more..
4.0Cadillac Ranch(4.246 reviews) - Nice place to stretch your legs and see some outdoor art. Monday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Points of Interest & Landmarks
This offbeat roadside attraction features 10 graffiti-covered Cadillacs standing upright in a row, buried nose-first in the ground. The sculpture is the brainchild of Amarillo millionaire Stanley Marsh III, who chose classics dating from 1948 to 1963, the "Golden Age" of the American automobile.See more..
4.5Houston Zoo(4.215 reviews) - Houston Zoo Monday: 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..
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..
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..
4.5AT&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..
4.5Natural Bridge Caverns(3.978 reviews) - Well worth spelunking Monday: 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. – TripadvisorSee more..
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..
4.5San Antonio River(3.669 reviews) - Stayed on the riverwalk. Bodies of Water
Scenic river winds through the town of San Antonio.See more..
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..
4.5Mission San Jose(3.466 reviews) - Beautiful and Historic - And on the VIA Missions Bus Route! Monday: 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..
4.5USS Lexington Museum(3.435 reviews) - A July 4th celebration aboard USS Lexington! Monday: 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..
4.0Six Flags Over Texas(3.245 reviews) - Six Flags was fun! Monday: Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks
Six Flags Over Texas is the original Six Flags theme park established over 60 years ago that includes thrilling rides, world-class shows & entertainment, unique shopping experiences, dining, and much more. Experience 14 world-class roller coasters. Discover 6 cultural areas around the park resembling the 6 countries once over Texas. Interact with classic Loony Toons and super DC characters at our character meet and greets. Find out why this is the place where family memories are made!See more..
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..
4.5Sea Turtle, Inc.(3.119 reviews) - Visit with the turtles Monday: 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..
4.5The Strand(3.095 reviews) - We enjoyed walking around, shopping, eating, drinking. Monday: 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. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.0Six Flags Fiesta Texas(3.092 reviews) - Water park could use a refresh Monday: Spent More than 3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Water Parks
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is the 2nd Six Flags theme park in Texas established 30 years ago that includes thrilling rides, a water park, world-class shows & entertainment, unique shopping experiences, dining, and much more. Experience 12 world-class roller coasters. Discover 6 excitingly themed areas around the park for a winning combination of special family moments and all out thrills. Interact with classic Loony Toons and super DC characters at our character meet and greets. Find out why this is the place where family memories are made!See more..
4.5The 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..
4.0Moody Gardens(2.816 reviews) - Not worth the money for what we got to do Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Gardens
Moody Gardens is an educational conservation center revolving around nature and wildlife. You can enjoy an interactive experience with endangered animals and plants at the Rainforest and Aquarium Pyramids. Catch a show with the kids at the 3D and 4D theaters or check out the Discovery Museum. End the day onboard the Colonel Paddlewheel Boat, complete with dinner. The best time to visit is at year-end, when the park comes alive with a mega holiday celebration—complete with ice skating and exclusive holiday shows. Snag the best deals by booking your tickets online, where you’ll find website-only discounts. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.5Barton Springs Pool(2.770 reviews) - Fun day in the sun with the family Monday: 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. – TripadvisorSee more..
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..
4.5Museum of Fine Arts, Houston(2.751 reviews) - A Wonderful Place to Spend the Day Monday: 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..
Scenic trail through lush green parks and peaceful lakes: a great place to bike, hike and run.See more..
4.0Tower of the Americas(2.617 reviews) - Great value! Monday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Architectural Buildings • Observation Decks & Towers • Civic Centres
This 750-foot tower built for the 1968 HemisFair has unbeatable panoramic views, especially if you're in the tower's revolving restaurant.See more..
4.0Texas State Aquarium(2.535 reviews) - Dolphin Show is a must! Monday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Aquariums
Discover the amazing underwater world of the Texas State Aquarium! Thousands of animals representing over 500 different species are ready to enchant, entertain, and inspire you. Conveniently located on North Beach, the Texas State Aquarium is just minutes from Corpus Christi's downtown district, convention center complex, and museums. Every visit to the Texas State Aquarium is a new and exciting discovery of animals that remind us all of our responsibility to those whose world we share. The Aquarium is an accredited member of the Association of Zoos and Aquariums and is a member of the World Association of Zoos and Aquariums. The Aquarium's mission is to engage people with animals, inspire appreciation for our seas, and support wildlife conservation.See more..
The site includes the former Texas School Book Depository and Dealey Plaza, two of the sights forever associated with the assassination of John F. Kennedy.See more..
4.5Fort Worth Zoo(2.446 reviews) - Absolute must see Monday: 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Zoos
Home to nearly 7,000 animals and 500 species, the nationally acclaimed Fort Worth Zoo has been voted the No. 1 zoo in North America by USA Today, the Best Zoo in Texas by Yahoo Travel, the No. 5 zoo in the nation by USA Travel Guide, the No. 1 family attraction in the DFW Metroplex by Zagat survey and a Top 10 Zoo or Aquarium by FamilyFun magazine.See more..
4.5Grape Creek Vineyards Fredericksburg(2.369 reviews) - Winery in the San Antonio hillside Monday: 11:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent < 1 hour Wineries & Vineyards
Experience idyllic estate vineyards, with 25 acres under vine, and Tuscan-inspired tasting rooms. Sample 90 point wines from our portfolio during a tasting or guided tour. Members enjoy peaceful patios and on-site dining. Grape Creek Vineyards is an artfully designed environment to explore and appreciate wine in a civilized oasis. Located on the same property as Heath Sparkling Wines. One Wine Estate, Two Premier Wineries. Please visit their website and see their house rules, including 21 only and no pets, prior to your visit.See more..
4.5Enchanted Rock State Natural Area(2.348 reviews) - Love Enchanted Rock! Monday: 8:00 AM - 10:00 PM Mysterious Sites • Geologic Formations
Enormous pink rock dome that rises 325 feet above a small stream.See more..
4.5Palo Duro Canyon State Park(2.345 reviews) - Great Vacation at Palo Duro Canyon State Park State Parks • Ancient Ruins • Canyons
A dramatic 60-mile long and 800-foot deep canyon noted for its excellent hiking, birding, fishing and mountain biking.See more..
Come explore over seventy acres of shared family fun, thrilling adventure, and relaxation! Schlitterbahn is nestled along the beautiful banks of the Comal River and features world-famous attractions, epic river adventures, kid’s water playgrounds, and beautiful spots to relax and share a picnic.See more..
4.0Kemah Boardwalk(2.264 reviews) - Kemal Boardwalk and The Flying Dutchman Monday: 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM Spent < 1 hour Amusement & Theme Parks
Overlooking Galveston Bay, Kemah Boardwalk is one of Bay Area Houston’s top attractions, loved for its awesome vibes, amusement rides, game arcades, waterfront restaurants, and live entertainment. The kids will probably enjoy feeding manta rays at the aquarium, the 65-foot-high Ferris wheel, and miniature train; while the adults can tackle thrilling rides like the Iron Eagle or Boardwalk Bullet wooden coaster. There are also loads of dining options for some classic Texas BBQ and Cajun seafood. Weekenders can take advantage of the bundled passes, which give you entry to nearby attractions like the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and Downtown Aquarium. – TripadvisorSee more..
4.0Historic Market Square(2.208 reviews) - Fun and Festive Monday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Shopping Malls
The Historic Market Square is a multi-business with a majority of the buildings managed by The City of San Antonio. Centro De Artes - Centro de Artes presents a full season of solo and group exhibitions and programming annually through an open call managed by the City of San Antonio, Department of Arts and Culture. El Mercado and Farmer's Market Building - The shops of The Historic Market Square, together there is a total of over 100 shops that makes it one of the largest Mexican markets north of the border Cano Fruiteria, El Merkadito, Plaza Taxco, La Margarita, Viva Villa, and Mi Tierra - These buildings and private businesses are independently owned.See more..
4.5Port Aransas Beach(2.106 reviews) - Beautiful white sand beach area Beaches
Public beach on Port Aransas that is clean, has a lifeguard and has car-free locations.See more..
4.5San Fernando De Bexar Cathedral(2.082 reviews) - Fabulous way to spend an evening! Monday: 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM, 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Churches & Cathedrals
This cathedral was built in 1873 to replace the original founded more than one hundred years earlier.See more..
4.5Globe Life Park(2.069 reviews) - Super Cool Monday: 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Arenas & Stadiums
Formerly named The Ballpark in Arlington, Ameriquest Field is the home of the Texas Rangers.See more..
4.5Dallas Museum of Art(2.062 reviews) - Great museum Monday: Spent 2-3 hours Art Museums
Established in 1903, this prestigious art venue features a wide selection of art exhibits, from Ancient Mediterranean to Contemporary Art and Design.See more..
4.5Main Street(2.054 reviews) - Great time during the holidays Points of Interest & Landmarks
My husband and I have been to Fredericksburg many times. On this trip, we went to see the holiday lights on Main Street. Those lights were ok. The lights in the Marktplatz along Main Street were super. We arrived at the Marktplatz about 30 minutes before sundown and enjoyed walking through the gardens. An ice rink was setup for ice skaters. There was a small charge for skating. From 6 pm to 6:10 pm, the story of Fredericksburg was told on speakers then 3 Christmas carols. Next, there was a count down 10 to 1 and the Marktplatz was lite with lights. I love the 26-foot tall wooden German Christmas Pyramid that was made in Germany. Main Street has lots of very interesting shops with one of a kind items. So much fun.See more..