Things to Do in Texas During the Holidays
If you’re planning a holiday vacation to Texas, there are many things to do and see during the holidays. The Gaylord Texan is a popular spot for snow tubing and snow throwing during the holidays. You can also visit various snow slides and enjoy ICE!, a 9-degree ice show. It’s truly a winter wonderland! Make sure to wear warm coats and mittens!
Fort Worth Zoo
The Fort Worth Zoo is a family-friendly destination that will not be missed on your next trip to Texas. Opened in 1909, the zoo was initially started with one lion, two bear cubs, an alligator, a coyote, a peacock, and a few rabbits. Since then, it has grown to be one of the top attractions in Texas.
With exhibits featuring exotic animals from around the world, the Fort Worth Zoo has something for everyone. From exotic birds to endangered reptiles, there is plenty to keep children entertained for a day. The Fort Worth Zoo also features a petting zoo and the Museum of Living Art. You can also view endangered reptiles and amphibians. The zoo is open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., with half-priced admission on Wednesdays.
The Fort Worth Zoo is a family-friendly destination and is located just off Interstate 30 off University Dr. S. Known as one of the country’s top zoos, and the Fort Worth Zoo is home to over 7,000 animals from across the world. The Fort Worth Zoo also features a Museum of Living Art, where you can see more than 100 species of amphibians. If you have a child in tow, don’t miss the Fort Worth Zoo.
Dallas World Aquarium
The Dallas World Aquarium is a great option for a fun family day out if you’re traveling with children. The aquarium houses creatures from four continents and three oceans. The aquarium is located in the West End Historic District of downtown Dallas. You can park for free in surrounding parking lots, or take the DART Rail to the nearby West End Station. The Dallas World Aquarium is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m., except for Christmas day.
If you’re traveling with children, consider bringing them to the Children’s Aquarium at Fair Park. The Children’s Aquarium is open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. It’s recommended that you arrive early to ensure enough time to see the animals. Admission to Dallas World Aquarium costs less than $21. If you’re traveling with a family, you can take advantage of the discounted weekly admission.
Galveston’s Lady Bird Lake
Fishing is a popular pastime on Galveston’s Lady Bird Lake. Largemouth bass are a plentiful species here, and anglers can catch 20 to 30 bass a day. Large redear and redbreast sunfish are also prevalent. Carp are also a popular species here. Fishing is legal, but be sure to get a license. Most species of fish have daily bag limits.
If you’re interested in fishing or boating, Lady Bird Lake offers many activities, including kayaking, paddleboarding, and rowing shells. The lake is surrounded by the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail, and some businesses have waterfront locations. The lake is no motorized, so you’re free to use a pedal boat or a paddleboard. If you’re into stand-up paddleboarding, you’ll be glad to know that the rowing dock offers a variety of rentals.
Lady Bird Lake would be known as Town Lake if fishing were not allowed. But thanks to Mrs. Johnson’s vision and hard work, it’s now a beautiful place to spend an afternoon. You can fish for largemouth bass and large redbreast sunfish with plastic worms or spinnerbaits. Alternatively, fly fishing equipment is a must for catching large redbreast sunfish.
Austin’s Hamilton Pool Preserve
If you love the outdoors, things to do in Austin’s Hamilton Pool Pre preserve are sure to be a perfect fit. This awe-inspiring spot is an Austin outdoor tradition. Visiting Hamilton Pool Preserve is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Texas while enjoying a few hours of free time. One of the best parts of this Austin destination is the rare sight of an empty swimming pool.
Take a hike along the trail at Hamilton Pool Preserve to see waterfalls, towering trees, and a collapsed grotto. The view is breathtaking no matter when you visit, but fall foliage is particularly spectacular. You can also picnic along the Pedernales River or take your family on a kayak tour. A picnic in the natural area is a great way to experience the natural beauty of this place.
You can also take a dip in the crystal clear water of Hamilton Pool. The natural wonder is a renowned tourist attraction, but you’ll want to make sure you book reservations. You’ll have to wait in line, though. The park will be crowded in the summer, so making reservations in advance is a good idea. The waterfall itself is over 50 feet high and offers plenty of photo opportunities.
Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center
There are free public tours of the Meyerson Auditorium, and you can even attend a 30-minute organ recital. If you’re a non-profit organization, you’ll benefit from a preferred rent rate. Visiting Meyerson Symphony Center is a great way to enjoy a live performance and learn about the history of Dallas’s most prominent cultural center. To make your visit a success, you should consider submitting a rental application today.
When it was first proposed, Meyerson was reluctant to accept a marble floor that wasn’t made in the USA. He even hired an intermediary to convince the union head of an Italian marble quarry to cut it when Meyerson was away. In spite of the pricey marble, Pei’s design for the curtain wall is impressive. In spite of the high price, Meyerson remained committed to the project and the finished product.
In its first year of existence, the Dallas Symphony was almost insolvent due to a hefty debt. The musicians were forced to cut pay to save the organization from closure. By 1998, the organization was down to $7.3 million. Because the endowment of the Dallas Symphony guaranteed the loan, the organization was able to make up the difference. The Wortham Foundation, however, erased the debt in exchange for a balanced budget.
Jacob’s Well
If you want to spend the day exploring the beautiful natural landscape of Jacob’s Well Natural Area, you have come to the right place. You’ll find a nature center with informative signage, hiking trails, and even a labyrinth. If you’re planning to spend some time exploring the well itself, picnic tables are located throughout the park. However, you should be aware that the steep and slippery trail isn’t stroller-friendly. It’s also not recommended to bring your stroller as the hike involves several sets of stairs. You should also know that the weather can be quite warm in the area, so it’s not a good idea to bring a picnic lunch or take a drink with you.
While there’s no fee for swimming, you need to make a reservation. The park has an online reservation system that you can use to reserve your spot. The park is also home to a nature center, dispersed picnic tables, and trails. You can also take a picnic lunch at one of the many cafes and eateries in the area. Although there aren’t any facilities for overnight stays, you can enjoy swimming at the Jacob’s Well without paying for admission.
Austin’s Deep Ellum
If you’re looking for something to do in Austin, try the local brews at Braindead Brewing Company. This beer emporium features funky IPAs, fruity sours, and ballsy Belgian-style tripels. Located in Deep Ellum, this brewery is perfect for an evening of live music, with patio and indoor seating adjacent to the brewing tanks. If you want to experience Deep Ellum’s eccentricity firsthand, you should definitely try this place.
If you want to experience the culture of this neighborhood, try the nightlife. It has been home to many blues and jazz legends, including Blind Lemon Jefferson, Leadbelly, and Bessie Smith. You can also see renowned musicians performing in Deep Ellum at various bars, such as the Trees, which features performances by big name acts from around the world. The best burgers in Deep Ellum can be found at Adair’s Saloon, Twisted Root, Angry Dog, and Twenty-Seven.
While in Deep Ellum, try the local beer. Texas beer is the specialty here, and Craft Pride is the only bar in Austin dedicated exclusively to this brew. The bar has 54 taps and 2 casks, and you can sample five different Lone Star brews in one flight. It’s a must if you’re in Austin, Texas. Soak in the atmosphere and experience the city’s thriving arts scene.
San Antonio Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a relaxing and inspiring day out in Texas, you must visit the San Antonio Botanical Garden. This 38-acre garden boasts more than 250 plant species and is a must-visit for nature lovers. There are three eco-systems in this botanical garden: the Texas Hill Country, the South Texas Pineywoods, and the East Texas Pineywoods. You can also enjoy a guided walk through the gardens, or participate in a birding workshop.
The garden is home to many historic homes, and is a popular place to visit if you’re in the area. It is also an Instagram-worthy spot, so bring your camera! The garden is an outdoor destination, so you may want to avoid wearing constricting clothing. Instead, choose comfortable, yet fashionable clothing. If you don’t feel comfortable walking or riding the bus, consider using the Via Metropolitan Transit, an affordable and convenient way to travel between San Antonio and the garden.
If you’re visiting the Garden in the evening, don’t miss the Auld House, an 1880s log cabin made of pinon pine. It is believed to be the largest pine cabin in Texas, and it has been moved onto the Garden’s grounds. It is surrounded by wildflowers, Texas native plants, and South Texas adobe. You can enjoy a festive dinner or roast some s’mores in the fire pits during the evening. The Garden is a great place to visit with the whole family.
Best Sightseeing in Texas
When planning a trip to Texas, you will likely be interested in seeing the state’s different landmarks and unique aspects. Listed below are some suggestions for the best sightseeing in Texas. These sights are located in Houston, Dallas, and Abilene. Visit Lady Bird Lake in Abilene and the Perot Museum in Houston. Regardless of where you spend your time in Texas, you will want to ensure you include all of these on your itinerary.
Dallas Arts District
The arts district is a cultural mecca downtown. The Meyerson Symphony Center and Winspear Opera House are strikingly angular and lavish, respectively. The Dallas Museum of Art has a stunning collection, while the Nasher Sculpture Center features modern masterpieces in a lush setting. Visitors should also visit the Crow Collection of Asian Art to view both secular and religious works. The arts district also houses an excellent museum of modern art, namely the Modern Art Museum.
If you’re looking for a unique, culturally rich destination, start your trip downtown in the Arts District. This 68-acre, 19-block neighborhood is home to some of the best architecture in the world. It features buildings designed by Pritzker Prize-winning architects, such as I.M. Pei, Norman Foster, and Renzo Piano. If you’re a culture-lover, don’t miss out on the Tony-award-winning Opera House, the Crow Collection of Asian Art, and the Dallas Symphony Center.
Houston’s River Walk
You can enjoy the sights and sounds of Houston’s waterfront and its riverwalk during your stay in the city. For an unforgettable experience, you can purchase Houston CityPASS, which allows you to visit five top attractions for free for nine days. For a unique experience, you can also take a 75-minute Hop-On Sightseeing Tour with audio commentary. There are many things to see and do in Houston, from historic downtown buildings to the museums to the famous Alamo.
You can take an elevator up the San Jacinto monument for a $4 entrance fee, which will reward you with panoramic views of the city. The museum inside the monument is worth the cost. The Aztec Theater and the battleship Texas are two other landmarks on the waterfront. All three attractions are close, and Houston’s riverwalk provides easy access to both. You can also enjoy the sights of downtown Houston on foot, or take a taxi.
Abilene’s Lady Bird Lake
A day trip to Abilene, Texas, can include the Storybook Character Sculptures. This historical site offers three original stone buildings, a semi-intact commissary, and the original stone foundations of the fort. Other activities in Abilene include kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, and scenic views. The city is also home to the Dyess Air Force Base Memorial Center Museum & Linear Park. Visitors can also take in the views of the area during sunrise and sunset.
After a long day of sightseeing, relax at the Abilene Winery. They offer day spa packages for visitors and offer gift certificates in both printed and emailable formats. Their gift shop sells wine-related apparel and accessories. In the downtown cultural district, you can see sculptures of storybook characters, including the famous Lady Bird, the storied city of Abilene. The city is also the Official Storybook Capital of America.
Visitors can hike and fish on the trail. The lake has an ample population of white bass, crappie, and catfish. Visitors can also spot nesting bald eagles. There are also several types of woodpeckers to be found, as well as red-shouldered hawks, black-crowned night herons, and cormorants. Be sure to watch for alligators, opossums, and southern flying squirrels.
Houston’s Perot Museum
Perot is home to many exhibits in the Dallas Museum District that appeal to the entire family. Its expansive, five-story building is an architectural marvel designed by architect Thom Mayne, and includes an escalator that’s 54 feet long and a glass tube structure that’s 150 feet long. With 11 permanent exhibits, this museum provides visitors with a unique hands-on experience, ranging from programming small robots to building big dinosaur skeletons.
While the Perot Museum of Nature and Science isn’t a large attraction, it’s worth the visit just for the science, art, and history. It features 11 permanent exhibit halls, as well as a special traveling exhibit gallery. Exhibits are fun and educational, and visitors will spend an entire day here learning and experiencing the wonder of science. Visitors can also take part in special events like Discovery Days, or attend lectures that inspire them to think differently.
The Dallas Museum of Arts is the largest art museum in Texas, and its collections are extensive and diverse. It is open Monday through Sunday, and is twice the size of its predecessor. Open 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Saturdays, it is open until 6 p.m. on Sundays, it’s open from 12:30 p.m. to 6 p.m.
Austin’s State Capitol building
If you want to see the state’s government up close, you can visit Austin’s State Capitol building in the downtown area. The Texas State Capitol building houses the offices and chambers of the Texas governor and legislature. It is a popular tourist attraction and is one of the most important sites to visit while in Austin. If you’re a political buff, you’ll also enjoy seeing the State Fair and the Texas state fairgrounds, both located in downtown Austin.
The state capitol building is an architectural marvel, and is definitely one of the highlights of any visit to Austin. You can take guided tours and see exhibits in the Texas State Capitol, including a gigantic Lego model that took 65,000 blocks to complete. Visiting the Texas State Capitol building is a must for visitors to the city, and you’ll want to plan a day or two to see all the historic attractions in the area.
Fort Worth Zoo
The Fort Worth Zoo was founded in 1909, with one lion, two bear cubs, an alligator, a peacock, and a few rabbits. Today, more than 32,000 animals and 5,000 species call the Fort Worth Zoo home. The first animals included a lion, two bear cubs, an alligator, a coyote, a peacock, and a few rabbits.
The Fort Worth Zoo is a world-class facility. It features a tranquil blue pool and a meditation pool. This zoo is also a top attraction for nighttime guests, with lighted pools and a water slide. You can spend the entire day exploring the zoo or even spend the night at Panther Island Pavilion, Texas’ largest waterfront stage. A visit to the Fort Worth Zoo is sure to be an unforgettable experience.
Founded in 1909, the Fort Worth Zoo has thousands of animals, that makes it one of the best zoological parks in the United States. It’s home to various other attractions, including a Texas Wild attraction, a mini train, a rock climbing wall, and a hurricane simulator. In addition to the zoo’s animals, there are also rides, exhibits, and attractions for kids of all ages.
Natural Bridge Caverns
If you love caves, you may want to spend an afternoon touring the Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest commercial caverns in Texas. Its name is derived from a 60 ft limestone slab bridge that spans the amphitheater-like setting of the cavern’s entrance. The bridge was left suspended after a sinkhole beneath it collapsed. The natural formation of the limestone slab bridge has inspired many painters and sculptors and has become a symbol of the Texas landscape.
If you have kids, Natural Bridge Caverns offers kid-friendly activities like treasure hunting. The Mining Company allows visitors to dig up fossils and gemstones. They can also dig for gems in a tray filled with water from a wooden tower. For more excitement, visitors can visit the Discovery Village Trading Post to shop for souvenirs. The Trading Post sells everything from Texas-themed t-shirts to mineral specimens.
Palo Duro Canyon
If you’re traveling to Texas, one of the most scenic destinations you can visit is Palo Duro Canyon. Located in the Texas Panhandle, just outside Amarillo, this canyon system is the second-largest in the country and averages six miles wide. At certain points, it stretches as far as 20 miles. You’ll be amazed by the beauty of this natural wonder.
Located in the Panhandle, Palo Duro Canyon is a geological wonder and should be on everyone’s Texas bucket list. It is the second largest canyon in the country, and it’s only about an hour’s drive from Amarillo. The park is open year-round, but it closes in the summer and fall. This park is worth visiting, and you’ll be glad you did.
You’ll also see the official Longhorn Herd at Palo Duro Canyon, which exists to preserve the breed and protect it from extinction. You’ll also enjoy some breathtaking stargazing from the park’s visitor center. And don’t forget to eat a delicious 72-ounce steak at Golden Light Cafe or the Big Texan Steakhouse.
Places to Visit in Texas
Texas might be the state for you if you’re looking for a unique place to go on vacation. This state has something for everyone, from the countless restaurants to the world-renowned museums. These places are sure to make your vacation a memorable experience. Read on to learn more about these places and more! Below, we’ve listed some of our favorites. You can even find a list of places to visit in Texas by state!
San Antonio River Walk
If you’re looking for a unique place to visit in Texas, the San Antonio River Walk should be on your list. This park is a pedestrian-only street one level above the roadway. Its design makes it unique, but it’s not only a city park. You’ll find that the River Walk is a great place to stroll or run. Just make sure to bring your walking shoes, because there are plenty of places to sit and people-watch.
The Riverwalk is free to walk in, but some activities require fees. It is one level below the city streets, so you’ll need an elevator to get down there. The walk also features a large fountain and restrooms, as well as helpful information and maps. You can even print out a map of the Riverwalk to navigate it. There are many different places to visit in San Antonio, and a walking tour is one of the most popular.
Located along the Riverwalk, the San Antonio Museum of Art is an excellent place to see local art. With two wings dedicated to Asian art and Latin American history, you can see some amazing artworks. The museum also hosts 600 free public programs every year. Another place to visit in San Antonio is the Esquire Tavern. This historic landmark opened in 1933 to celebrate the end of the Prohibition era. It has a cool, cozy atmosphere that is perfect for a night of drinking.
SeaWorld San Antonio
In the Westover Hills district of San Antonio, Texas, you can explore the world of sea mammals and marine life at SeaWorld San Antonio. This 250-acre marine mammal park and oceanarium is a must-see destination for families. Guests of all ages can spend a day exploring the park’s exhibits and meeting sea creatures in person. During your visit, take the time to learn about their behavior and characteristics.
The park offers many opportunities for families to interact with sea animals and enjoy live shows. Visitors can also enjoy an Aquatica water park, ride a steel eel “hypercoaster” and get close to a great white. There are also many interactive and educational exhibits for kids, including penguins and beluga whales. Birthday parties are also available, as well as special events, including tiger encounters, shark shows, and dolphin interactions.
A single park ticket at SeaWorld San Antonio offers access to participating restaurants and all-day dining. The meal plan includes a main course, side item, dessert, and a regular-sized non-alcoholic beverage. Guests can use the ticket during regular park hours, Monday through Friday. The meal plan is also valid for children under the age of three. After dinner, there are additional events to choose from. If you’re planning to spend the day at SeaWorld San Antonio, you’ll probably find an exciting discount package on Groupon.
Museum of Fine Arts Houston
If you are searching for places to visit in Texas with a renowned collection of art, the Museum of Fine Arts Houston should be on your list. The museum houses more than 65,000 pieces, from antiquities of ancient civilizations to gold objects from African royal courts. Modern and contemporary works also abound, from Picasso to James Turrell. Visitors can also experience an audio tour of the museum and view a short film about the history of the museum.
The Museum of Fine Arts Houston is the largest art museum in the country and is located in the heart of Houston’s Museum District. Its permanent collection features more than 64,000 works from six continents spanning more than 6,000 years of history. Its two main buildings – the Audrey Jones Beck Building and the Caroline Weiss Law Building – are connected by an underground tunnel. You can even see a movie at the museum’s movie theater. The museum also has two art schools, both of which have award-winning programs.
Check out the Children’s Museum if you’re visiting Houston with kids. The museum has many hands-on exhibits that children can enjoy. For the grown-ups, visit the Museum of Fine Arts Houston. And don’t forget to take in Houston’s stunning collections of art and culture. The museum also offers educational opportunities, lectures, and musical performances.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
There are many things to do in the area, including hiking, wildlife watching, and picnic areas. On clear nights, there is stunning stargazing, which is a bonus. There are interpretive displays and hikes to explore the area’s natural history and local flora. The views of the Hill Country are breathtaking and are worth visiting on a clear day or night.
Located 90 miles northwest of San Antonio, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is arguably the most iconic landmark in Texas. This massive pink granite dome rises more than 400 feet above the surrounding terrain and offers a picturesque vista of the Hill Country. For thousands of years, the area has been the subject of myths and legends. Located in the Texas Hill Country, it is home to more than 400 archeological sites and over 120 of them are State Archeological Landmarks.
Visitors should wear comfortable shoes and wear comfortable clothes to hike on the rocky terrain. While the climbing is not difficult, younger children should be accompanied by an adult. Visitors should bring sunscreen and a water canteen, as it can get a little windy up top. This is a great place for photo shoots. A visit to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is sure to be a memorable experience.
Fort Worth Stockyards
If you are planning a trip to Texas, consider visiting the historic Fort Worth Stockyards. This district is full of history, and you’ll find ten fun things to do there. You’ll enjoy a ghost tour of the Fort Worth Stockyards, see where cattle were raised, and learn a little bit about the history of the area. There’s also the opportunity to tour the Cadillac Hotel and Miss Molly’s Hotel, which are both said to be haunted.
While you’re here, don’t miss the cattle drive! Real cowboys on horseback drive a herd of longhorn cattle down Exchange Avenue every day at 11:30am and 4:00pm. Then, head to the Cowtown Cattlepen Maze, a 5400-square-foot wooden maze with a great observation deck. Visitors can enter for $6 on Tuesdays.
If you’re looking for a great place to eat, stay at the Hotel Drover. It’s a unique hotel, with a look reminiscent of frontier-western hotels. There’s a cafe called 97 West and a lobby bar. There’s also a plush outdoor veranda. If you’re visiting the Stockyards on a Saturday or Sunday, you can also check out the famous championship rodeo held every summer at the Coliseum.
Galveston
If you are looking for exciting places to visit in Galveston, Texas, you should definitely consider going to Moody Gardens, a zoological park with giant glass pyramids housing different types of animals. The island’s south shore is also home to the historic Pleasure Pier, which is a must-visit if you are visiting Galveston. On the eastern side, you can visit East Beach and Stewart Beach.
Aside from the beaches, you can also visit the city’s many other attractions, which include the Seawall Urban Park, art galleries, museums, and excellent dining. You can also take part in a train show. These attractions are great for families with children. However, some may be closed due to the recent global health issues, so make sure to check before you go. If you want to have a fun day at the beach, you can book a hotel near the beach and the historic downtown.
Don’t miss a trip to the Pleasure Pier for an exciting family day out. This pier is filled with classic carnival staples and midway games. For those who prefer to spend the day indoors, you can also visit Houston, Texas, or the Offshore Oil and Gas Museum. These museums are set inside a decommissioned drilling rig and offer an excellent view of the Houston area’s oil and gas industry.
Austin
While traveling through Austin, Texas, be sure to check out the state’s flagship campus at the University of TX. Austin’s eclectic live music scene is one of the city’s most notable attractions. Besides the University, Austin has many parks and lakes that are ideal for hiking, biking, and swimming. Its famous circuit of the Americas racetrack has even hosted a United States Grand Prix. And while you’re in town, you can also catch some action-packed races at Circuit of the Americas racetrack.
One of the top Austin, Texas places to visit is the Umlauf House, which is the former home of American Sculptor Charles Umlauf. This museum features artists’ sculptures and native plants in the outdoor garden. The Umlauf House is located near the Texas State Capitol building. History buffs will love this museum, which has a small admission fee and exhibits that take them back in time. While you’re here, don’t forget to check out the famous “Austin City Limits” performances.
Besides the renowned music scene, the city also offers many fun activities. From a variety of live music venues to a rooftop bar, Austin offers something for everyone. Whether you’re a country music or jazz fan, the city is full of entertainment. Whether you’re looking to spend a day out with friends or family, Austin has something to offer everyone. There are countless Austin, Texas places to visit that will keep you entertained.
