10. Chuck Norris
It’s no surprise that the most bad-ass actor of all time played the role of a Texas Ranger. From his skin-tight wranglers to his black felt cowboy hat, Chuck Norris personified Texas to the T, literally. Although he was born in Oklahoma he got here as fast as he could, and stayed.
9. We're Out of This World!
While there may be skepticism on whether Houston was actually the first word spoken on the moon; there is no doubt that it was said. We’re not only mentioned in other states, we are mentioned outside of the Earth.
8. BBQ
Regardless of what your favorite BBQ is, ours is better. Where ever you are in Texas, whether it’s a small town or big city, the locals will have a BBQ joint to brag about, and it will be delicious. There’s a reason it’s called ‘Texas style’ brisket.
7. Our Gas Stations
We have the world’s largest gas stations, and we have multiple of them. Every Texan knows the big yellow sign of the beaver means a Buc-ee’s is near, and it’s about as exciting as stopping at an amusement park. Imagine a small Walmart with things like; fresh food, novelties, homemade snacks, clothing, and cleaner bathrooms than your mom’s kitchen table. These are just a few of the reasons why Buc-ee’s is so amazing.
6. Blue Bell
Blue Bell may not technically be the only option for ice cream in Texas but it might as well be. Even with the recent recall, many Texans are refusing to eat ice cream until Blue Bell returns. On craigslist Blue Bell has been selling for thousands of dollars and children are literally crying at grocery stores (seriously, it’s a video).
5. Tex-Mex
If you have ever enjoyed Mexican food, imagine it smothered in queso. That is essentially what Tex-Mex is. A version of Mexican food that tastes better. We know it may not be completely authentic Mexican food, you can find that here too, but we enjoy our version more.
4. Schlitterbahn
Schlitterbahn is the largest waterpark in the world. From watery attractions such as a giant lazy room, a man-made surfing wave, and a rollercoaster waterslide, Schlitterbahn is a cool spot for a hot Texas summer.
3. Whataburger
No matter where you are in Texas, you are never far from a Whataburger. The bright orange W is a sign of light for any Texan. Everyone has a favorite specialty burger on the menu and it always goes great with a Dr Pepper. It’s the best thing non-Texans never get to experience, which makes it taste so much better.
2. Music
Artist such as Willie Nelson, ZZ Top, George Straight, Buddy Holly, and Beyoncé all call Texas home. Even with our extraordinary list of musicians will still manage to beat every other state with our awesome music festivals such as Austin City Limits, South by Southwest, Fun Fun Fun Fest, and Free Press Summer Fest (to list a few). There’s a reason Austin is called the ‘live music capital of the world’.
1. Pride
To top off the list, the main reason Texas is the best state in America is because we know it is! Regardless of where you are from and why you think it is great, Texans know we live in the best state. It may be an acquired taste, but when you try it a few times you learn to love it and come to understand why it is the best, just because it is.
