The state of Texas offers numerous activities for fun, adventure, relaxation. It is also known as the second largest state both in terms of area and population. This Lone Star state is filled with sightseeing spots for every tourist to enjoy with its rich history and cultural diversity.
1.The Space Center, Houston
This Space Center is only about a half-hour away from the center of the city, is a must-see science and space learning center and is one of the best attractions to go to Texas. Prepare yourself for a day of exploring the center, which includes visiting the Starship Gallery, the Moon Rock Vault, or see the space shuttle replica on a shuttle carrier.
Additionally, it is worth noting that Space Center Houston is the Official Visitor Center of NASA’s Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center (JSC). The JSC is the space administration’s manned spacecraft research and training facility. The fairly giant complex also serves as the ground control for space launches. You can also take a Tram Tour around the complex.
2.The Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo
The Cadillac Ranch in West Texas is now nothing short of iconic as it continuously gains traction as one of Texas’s most famous contemporary landmarks. The surprising line of old Cadillacs that are half-buried face- down is a public art installation created by the members of an art group named Ant Farm.
Cadillac Ranch is also an interactive, ever-changing piece of work that makes it worthwhile to visit. Tourists go in droves not just to sightsee but also to add their impressions upon the pile of Cadillacs even for a short period. The visitors can even spray paint their designs on the cars. This creates increasing layers of paint on the cars, some of which eventually chip off and are even sold as trinkets outside the gate.
3.The Alamo, San Antonio
The Alamo in San Antonio, Texas can be considered as one of the most scenic and famous spots – almost synonymous with bold last stands.
The historic church was established in 1718 as a part of a mission station and by 1836, it had been converted into a fort. However, it had become a witness and a longstanding monument to the Texas Revolution when a small force of U. S. Soldiers, including figures such as James Bowie and Davie Crockett. The 187 defenders barricaded themselves and made their last stand against some 3,000 Mexican soldiers. After the 13- day siege, the defenders were overrun but not before inspiring the state to eventually drive the Mexicans from Texas.
The landmark still stands in its restored glory, now accompanied by a museum filled with artifacts both from the history of the mission including the famed battle. Also available is the Alamo Cenotaph, or better known as the Spirit of Sacrifice. The monument was built during the centennial celebration of the event and lists down the names of the Texans who fought in the war.
4.Museum District, Houston
Sitting right in the heart of Houston is the Museum District. It is an association of 19 museums, art galleries, cultural hubs, and community organizations; some of which are free and mostly within walking distance of each other.
All of its museums are free at certain days or times in a year, while 11 of them are free all year round. The Museum of Fine Arts, Houston is one of the highlights in the Museum District is. It houses more than 62,000 art pieces in its halls – the largest and most diverse in the U.S. Southwest. Another is the Houston Museum of Natural Science, four floors of natural science halls and exhibits branching out from a central facility.
5.The Stockyards National Historic District, Fort Worth
The Stockyards in Fort Worth, Texas, is the last surviving facility of its kind in the USA. These stockyards were an important part of the cattle industry, where millions of these cattle were bred, driven, and transported to other parts of the country.
Your visit to the stockyards is not complete without watching an actual cattle drive. Visitors can also enjoy numerous fun activities such as rodeos, concerts, theater plays, and museums. A western-styled museum that pays tribute to more than 125 cowboys and cowgirls can also be seen in this historic district of Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. Each inductee to the hall of fame has its own booth filled with memorabilia. The museum also has interactive exhibits that kids can also have fun with.
6.Guadalupe Mountains National Park
The Guadalupe Mountain National Park, known for the sprawling mountain ranges including the four highest mountain peaks in Texas, is a perfect spot for those who are more interested in taking in the natural landscape. It located on the northwestern corner of the state, some 100 miles east of El Paso, Texas.
Tourists can admire the landscape, starting with El Capitan and its great height and imposing outline, making it a natural landmark and an iconic image for travelers. The highest peak in Texas is the Guadalupe Peak, also known as Signal Peak, which can be climbed by a steep stony trail about five miles in length.
7.USS Lexington, Corpus Christi
The Essex-class aircraft carrier USS Lexington can be seen docked on the shores of the coastal town of Corpus Christi and this is also known as the “The Blue Ghost,”. This warship served in WWII and has struck fear in its Japanese opponents because of its blue camouflage and its supposed reappearances after being sunk.
It is once an active carrier and is now a naval museum with most of its wartime features restored and opened to the public. The USS Lexington showcase onboard its collection of vintage aircraft. Guests can also check out the bridge, the crew quarters, and even the catapult room which was previously off-limits. Kids and kids-at-heart can definitely enjoy the flight and navigation simulator, as well as an onboard 3D movie that will give you the first-person cockpit experience.
Even if there are limitless possibilities for fun and adventure in The Lone Star state, it certainly would make your next visit a story to tell by stopping by these must-see destinations in Texas.
