Texas is the largest state in the continental U.S., which means it's the perfect place for a road trip. From the northwest corner of the panhandle to the southern tip of the Rio Grande is 801 miles, and from east to west, Texas spreads to 744 miles. Within all that space are some of the most amazing road trip destinations. From the well-known to the hidden gems, here are just some great stops (in no particular order) that any Texas road trip must include:
1. Marfa's Mystery Lights
Located in Marfa, Texas, these lights have gained attention because no one can explain the lights. The lights have mostly been reported in a white or yellow color and appear to move in no real pattern just around the skyline freely. No one can explain the lights because when someone is to approach, the lights disappear.
2. Dinosaur Valley State Park
Just outside of Fort Worth in Glen Rose, Texas is the Dinosaur Valley State Park. The park invites you to walk the mud tracks of dinosaurs across the edge of an ancient ocean. This is a perfect spot to visit with children, but can also be great for any age, because who doesn't like dinosaurs?
3. John Wayne's Head
If you are from anywhere in the South, you know who John Wayne is. Make a quick pit stop in Lubbock, Texas to find the boulder that has John Wayne's face carved into it.
4. Gorman Falls
For those who love to enjoy nature make sure to take a few days at the Colorado Bend State Park in Bend, Texas. There you can hike to Gorman Falls and appreciate the true beauty of nature.
5. Enchanted Rock
Located in Fredericksburg, Texas, the Enchanted Rock is made of this pink granite that draws people in. Again for those nature lovers, get out there and hike the Enchanted Rock to see its magnificent view and learn of the legends of the rock.
6. Cadillac Ranch
In Amarillo, Texas, there is the quite famous art installation: Cadillac Ranch. The Ranch was created by Chip Lord, Hudson Marquez, and Doug Michels, showing the evolution of Cadillacs. This is a great spot for a picture and to embrace some cultural art.
7. Cascade Caverns
Located in Boerne, Texas are the Cascade Caverns. The caves are just stunning. Water droplets make up the Diamond Ceiling, and there are different animals that are to be discovered. A great place for a family trip!
8. Palo Duro Canyon
Nicknamed "Texas' Grand Canyon," the Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the country, located in Canyon, Texas. If you can't make the trip to the actual Grand Canyon, Palo Duro is a great second option. Go see the gorgeous views and enjoy the nature.
9. Marburger Orchard
And while you are in Fredericksburg, Texas visiting the Enchanted Rock, make sure to stop at the Marburger Orchard to pick some fresh fruit for your road trip. Don't forget their famous peaches!
10. The Alamo
How can you have a Texas road trip without stopping by the Alamo? Located in San Antonio, Texas, the Alamo is a massive part of Texas history. This place is a must for any Texas road trip.
11. Spoetzl Brewery
Located in Shiner, Texas, the Spoetzl Brewery is the home of the Texas-famous Shiner beer. Stop in for a tour!
12. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
On the outskirts of San Antonio, Texas is the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. Here animals such as emus, giraffes, ostriches, and zebras roam in a protected environment and you are able to drive right by them, and if you are lucky a zebra will put its head in your car.
13. Space Center Houston
In Houston, Texas, Space Center Houston is the place to learn in hands-on activities, tours, and attractions all about space. The Space Center is enjoyable for all ages.
14. Six Flags Over Texas
Located in Arlington, Texas, Six Flags Over Texas is the first of the Six Flags theme parks. Six Flags Over Texas is home to the Texas Giant and the Titan (the tallest, fastest, and longest roller coaster in Texas). Enjoyed by all ages, take a day and have fun at this iconic theme park!
15. Buc-ee's
Buc-ee's is a convenience store chain that has numerous locations throughout Texas. Lake Jackson, Texas is the location of the first Buc-ee's. This place is more than just a convenient store; there is anything that you can imagine or need here. And it's the perfect stop for a road trip.
16. Moody Gardens
Located in Galveston, Texas, this indoor attraction is a great way to learn about exotic plants and animals. Broken into three different pyramids, people can learn about marine life, a rainforest life, and science-based exhibits. Great for those who love animals but cannot travel to them.
17. Sixth Floor Museum
For those interested in history, the Sixth Floor Museum located in Dallas, Texas is definitely a place to stop. The Sixth Floor Museum is in tribute to the late President John F. Kennedy who was shot from the sixth floor of this building on Elm Street.
18. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park is far from civilization in Big Bend National Park, Texas. It is over 300 miles from the nearest main city, El Paso. However, it is worth the distance; the views of the Rio Grande are just spectacular. Just make sure you have enough gas!
19. San Antonio's River Walk
Located in the heart of San Antonio, Texas, the River Walk has become a famous tourist attraction because of the restaurants and shops that line the San Antonio River. This is a great place to spend the day window shopping and lazing around.
20. Dallas Museum of Art
In Dallas, Texas, the Dallas Museum of Art has a great number of collections of art from around the world. Stop by and learn the many different cultures of others in just one place!
21. Czech Stop and Little Czech Bakery
Located in small town West, Texas, the famous is Czech Stop is the perfect pit stop for any road trip. The famous kolaches are to die for!
22. The Texas State Capital
Last on the list, but certainly not least: The Texas State Capitol in Austin, Texas needs to be on your list for a stop. Texans are a very proud people so go learn and explore the capitol building.
