The Lone Star State
Cowboy Charm & Western Boots, Rustic & Modern Ranches
Remember the Alamo, Bluebonnets & Austin City Limits
Get To Know Texas
It conjures up visions of cowboys and rodeos, but there’s so much more to Texas than the obvious. Sure, it lives up to its reputation — you won’t be disappointed if you’re hoping to visit a ranch or purchase a pair of Western boots — but when you delve deeper you’ll find that there’s far more to explore, from history to amusement parks to sports to food venues. Where to begin? Here’s where you should go when you book a bus ticket to Texas.
There's no shortage of things to do in Texas.
A Look at Culture in Texas
The Lone Star State is, for many people, a dream destination. It’s high on must-visit lists for so many reasons: the incredible sports scene, the classic foods (chili, barbecue, sweet tea, and the list goes on) and the opportunity to road trip from one amazing city to the next. It’s all fabulous, including the weather. But one thing that really sticks in visitors’ minds when they leave? The friendly faces. People are simply polite, respectful and welcoming, whether you’re a complete newcomer or have visited a few times. If you book a bus ticket to Texas in the fall, be mindful of one thing: football is essentially the state religion, which means you may be roped into going to a game or expressing your support for one of the state’s many collegiate teams. And if it’s spring, don’t be surprised to see those friendly faces along the road, taking pictures and snapping selfies of themselves in jumbo fields of bluebonnets, the state’s official flower that grows in abundance when temperatures soar.
Must See List
- Franklin Barbecue in Austin
- Johnson Space Center
- Houston Zoo
- The Alamo in San Antonio
- San Antonio River Walk
- SeaWorld San Antonio
- Hays County Veterans Memorial
- The Sixth Floor Museum
- Dallas Museum of Art
- Nasher Sculpture Center
- Wyler Aerial Tramway
- El Paso Museum of Art
- Lady Bird Lake
- Texas Capitol Building
- Bullock Texas State History Museum
- Fort Worth Stockyards
- Fort Worth Zoo
- USS Lexington
- International Museum of Art & Science
- Quinta Mazatlan World Of Birding
- Fort Concho
Top Cities To Visit in Texas
Houston
One of the top attractions in Houston is the Johnson Space Center and neighboring Space Center Houston, where visitors can learn about the space center’s history since it opened its doors in 1961. If you’re on foot, a walk through the incredible Museum District is a must. There are 19 museums here, plus the Houston Zoo. The Houston SW bus stop is approximately 10 miles from downtown, and you’ll pass through the hip Upper Kirby district on your way. This area is worth a stop if you love farmers markets, antique stores, and charming art galleries. Nearby Katy also provides some fun options, including the kid-friendly Katy Play Station and the Katy Heritage Society Railroad Museum. Prefer a more laid-back scene? Take the bus north to Conroe, a serene city where you’ll find plenty of open park space and hiking trails. The largest oil refinery in the country is also nearby — it’s approximately 90 miles away in Port Arthur.
Dallas
Dallas is packed with history, much of it somber. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza features exhibits commemorating the life and exploring the 1963 assassination of President John F. Kennedy. Indulge your love of culture at the Dallas Museum of Art and the Nasher Sculpture Center, then bring the kids to the Perot Museum of Nature and Science to enjoy five floors of engaging, interactive exhibits. If you’re craving some quality outdoor time, head to Lake Waxahachie for some fishing. Dallas is also a great place to build into a business trip to Corsicana — the cities are under an hour away from one another.
San Antonio
A visit to the Alamo is essential while you’re in San Antonio. After you’ve toured the legendary mission and museum, walk over to the Shops at Rivercenter for a quick bite to eat. Make some time in your schedule to walk along the San Antonio River Walk, too — there are plenty of beautiful hotels and great restaurants overlooking the San Antonio River. If you’re with your family, SeaWorld San Antonio is also worth your time.
Austin
As the state’s capital, Austin offers plenty to do. The placid waters of Lady Bird Lake are worth a visit for a waterside picnic, while a trip to the Texas Capitol Building, built in 1888, provides a glimpse of the area’s iconic architecture and rich history. You can delve deep into all things Texas here, too — the Bullock Texas State History Museum features interactive exhibits and a movie theater.
San Marcos
Texas State University calls San Marcos home, but there’s more here than the usual college haunts. There’s an impressive commemorative Air Force exhibit at the Central Texas Wing featuring several historic fighter planes. You can learn intriguing facts about local history at the Hays County Historic Courthouse downtown and pay your respects to the fallen at the Hays County Veterans Memorial. Music lovers rave about Cheatham Street Warehouse, which opened its doors in 1974 and hosted everyone from Stevie Ray Vaughan to Willie Nelson.
El Paso
Over the border from Mexico, El Paso offers unique experiences. Take the Wyler Aerial Tramway in Franklin Mountain State Park and enjoy amazing views of the Franklin range below. Visit the vast collection of Southwestern exhibits at the El Paso Museum of Art, and don’t miss a show at the beautiful Plaza Theatre. It originally opened in 1929 and was restored in the early 2000s.
Fort Worth
As the home of all things cowboy, it makes sense for country and western enthusiasts to head for Fort Worth. The visitor center at the Fort Worth Stockyards makes a sensible starting point. The historic district features original elements, like old-world brick pathways and genuine corrals. The nearby Fort Worth Zoo, featuring 7,000 different animals, is also an impressive option for families.
Corpus Christi
Situated on the Gulf of Mexico, Corpus Christi is one of the state’s most beloved coastal getaways. It’s home to the USS Lexington, a National Historic Landmark that is easily one of the most celebrated attractions in the city. You can also visit the Selena Museum, created in honor of the late singer, the Texas State Aquarium and the Art Museum of South Texas.
McAllen
Anyone with an appreciation for art will want to make some time for McAllen. The International Museum of Art & Science displays numerous exhibits and interactive opportunities for visitors. The beautiful Quinta Mazatlan is an unforgettable estate featuring brilliant gardens and hundreds of bird species on its grounds.
San Angelo
Home to the Fort Concho National Historic Landmark and the Fort Concho Museum, San Angelo was a designated American Army post during the 1860s. After you’ve brushed up on local history, wander the Concho River Walk with the family and enjoy the beautiful scenery.
Where to Go in Texas
Narrowing down your must-visit list when you’re booking your bus ticket to Texas may be tricky. You could spend some time along the border and learn about local culture in Laredo, check out the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum in Amarillo, explore the Texas Zoo in Victoria, visit the Professional Wrestling Hall of Fame and Museum in Wichita Falls, observe the Rio Grande in Presidio, or head to Lubbock, where Buddy Holly was born. Even low-key cities like Alice, Kilgore, Kingsville, Beeville, Brownsville, Del Rio, Lufkin, Eagle Pass, Bayton, Pecos, and Denison via the Sherman Denison stop offer something intriguing for everyone from history buffs to nature lovers.
A Brief History of Texas
In 1836, American colonists sought their independence from Mexico — it was the start of the Texas Revolution — the most important and famous battle to develop from it was the Battle at the Alamo. Although America was defeated, the fight was a source of inspiration and renewed vigor that helped Texas achieve its independence in 1836 following the Battle at San Jacinto. The state was admitted to the Union in 1845 but seceded in 1861 to join the Confederacy during the Civil War. Though Lincoln freed all slaves through the Emancipation Proclamation in 1863, it didn’t affect those in the Confederate states. It wasn’t until June 19, 1865, that the slaves were ordered to be freed — a date that today is recognized as “Juneteenth.” The state was also home to the first United States military flight, which occurred in San Antonio in 1910.