23 Attractions in TEXAS (Thrilling, Touristy & Memorable)
Can I hear you say “NEVER AGAIN”?
Never again will you be stuck at home on a Saturday just because you need to know where to visit.
It’s the last time your touring friends or family will skip your city because you never know the fun places.
The last time you’ll hear the B-word, say goodbye to being Boring.
Get ready to have your need for thrill satisfied and then some.
You’ll probably become a Texas tour guide after reading this, so buckle up as you read through our lineup of top 23 attractions cutting across different cities in Texas.
Are you ready?
Then say it one more time for effect.
“NEVER AGAIN!”
And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Hidden Gems in Texas.
Attractions in Houston, Texas
1. Space Center Houston (Top Learning Center)
This is one place that is worth a trip down to Texas.
Space Center is the top learning center for space exploration and science and, as such, pulls in tremendous crowds even internationally.
It is ranked as the #1 attraction in Houston; of course, it is first on this list.
The museum showcases over 400 exhibits, artifacts, and experiences; you can bet that you’ll always learn something new and enjoy the experience with its rich collection.
While you’re there, be sure to experience the NASA Tram Tours, there’s a reason they are all-time visitors’ favorites.
On this tour, you get a close look at space exploration at the NASA Johnson Space Center (JSC).
This is most likely the closest you’ll get to space; why not take it?
Address: 1601 E NASA Parkway, Houston, TX 77058
2. Art Car Museum (Revolutionary Art Meets Automobiles)
In this museum, revolutionary art meets automobiles.
Artists transform cars into works of art by adding or subtracting from their components to meet the artist’s expression.
Just like all forms of art, these innovations convey new ideas and can be on any subject; politics, society, emotions, etc.
These vehicles, which once existed once as automobiles, now represent personal expressions and experiences.
It’s an experience you want to experience!
Exhibitions are by appointment, so be sure to make reservations before your visit.
All the car fanatics in the house already have their engines on and ready to set out.
Race you there!
Address: 140 Heights Blvd. Houston, Texas, 77007, US
3. Kemah Boardwalk (Ultimate Family Destination)
A little heads up, you will need to pry your kids and some adults from the grip of this park when it is time to leave.
Thankfully you can promise to return soon as the entry is free.
You heard right, FREE!
However, you do need to pay for individual rides.
Better still, spend a weekend at the Boardwalk Inn and enjoy all the perks.
If you are lucky enough, your visit will coincide with one of the numerous festivals or the daily shows on the seaside, and that could serve as enough entertainment without going on the rides.
This amusement park is the ultimate family destination; enjoy lovely meals at the waterfront restaurants, go shopping at the retail stores, and enjoy a variety of thrill and family rides.
Open on Monday to Thursday from 12 pm- 9 pm, Friday from 12 pm-10 pm, Saturday from 11 am-10 pm, and Sunday from 11 am-9 pm.
What better way to spend a day?
Address: 215 Kipp Avenue, Kemah, TX 77565, United States
Also see our article on Castles in Texas.
Attractions in Hill Country, Texas
1. Hamilton Pool (Natural Waterfall Serenity)
As a lover of nature and all things lovely, can you really boast of visiting Texas without stopping at the Hamilton Pool?
Hope not.
This natural waterfall is the perfect place to let loose after a day of touring the streets of Hill Country.
Enjoy the serenity and picturesque view of rocks, cliffs, and waterfalls.
You may not be allowed to swim, but the hike on its trails is definitely worth the visit.
Try to take advantage of this spot if you visit in the summer!
However, the entry fee is to be paid in cash, and a parking fee is also charged.
You may also want to confirm that no construction is going on at the time of your proposed visit.
Address: Hamilton Pool, Texas 78620, United States
2. Gruene Hall (Oldest Dance Hall)
Do you like to dance?
That’s not enough; you have to love it.
And if you do, there’s only leaving Texas once you have visited the oldest dance hall in Trace, which is the Gruene Hall.
This hall was built in 1878 and stands as a historic site.
Enjoy live music every day.
Yes, every day!
You get to dance to your heart’s content.
The bands providing live music are also available to take bookings, and the hall is available for private events.
With several shows a month, you will never run out of entertainment.
Visit Gruene Hall’s website to check out the lineup of available shows for the month.
Dance your sorrows away; book a ticket today.
Address: 1281 Gruene Rd., New Braunfels, TX 78130
Also see our article on Fun Things to do in Texas.
Attractions in Dallas, Texas
1. Reunion Tower (Breathtaking View of Dallas)
Heard of it?
You are about to fall in love with it.
The Reunion Tower, also known as the Ball, was built in 1978 and is a tower with over 250 exterior LED lights, so bring it can be seen for miles.
Can you imagine how enthralling the sight is?
However, this is just the tip of the iceberg!
On the inside of the tower, you get to enjoy the breathtaking view of Dallas from 470 feet above the ground.
Enjoy this 360 view of Texas at night or during the day at the Gro-Deck.
The Geo-deck is an observation deck that equips you to see for miles in any direction.
It is also available for private events such as date nights, proposals, group events, etc.
You can also dine at the Crown Block restaurant and enjoy exquisite steak and wine.
Address: 300 Reunion Blvd E, Dallas, Texas 75207
2. The Dallas World Aquarium (Aquatic Wonders on Display)
Ever seen an elephant manatee in real life?
Here’s your chance to, don’t miss it.
The Dallas World Aquarium, in its Dallas site, was opened in October 1992.
A number of exhibits are showcased at this aquarium, and its current list of shows includes:
- MUNDO MAYA
- CLOUD FOREST TREK
- BORNEO
- SOUTH AFRICA
- ORINOCO
- AQUARIUM
All of which showcase rare, beautiful, and some not-so-beautiful creatures.
There are also fun field trips organized for kids and adults; all you need to do is get in contact with the aquarium to make reservations.
Dallas World Aquarium also provides venues for events such as parties, weddings, receptions, etc.
Why not?
Seeing as this world of adventure also doubles as a gorgeous space.
Address: 1801 North Griffin Street, Dallas, TX 75202, United States
3. Dallas Museum of Art (25,000+ Artworks Free)
Are you really a true lover of artwork if you haven’t been to the Dallas Museum of Art?
I think not.
Prove your love by visiting this museum which is one of the largest in the United States, and you won’t regret the experience.
Imagine over 25,000 pieces of artwork in one place, all at your fingertips.
Well, not really your finger.
More like right before your eyes.
The museum houses artwork dating from as far back as the third millennium BC to the present day.
It also has a library with volumes available to everyone.
If you’re an art person, you’d probably want to spend a night here.
Admission to the museum is totally free.
Imagine seeing all those artwork without paying a dime.
All of this happens at the Dallas Museum of Art.
You can go online to check for upcoming exhibitions so you don’t miss any from your favorite artist.
It is closed on Mondays and open between 11 am to 5 pm Tuesdays to Sundays.
Address: 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States.
Also see our article on Aquariums in Texas.
Attractions in Panhandle, Texas
1. Palo Duro Canyon State Park (Grand Canyon of Texas)
Also known as the Grand Canyon of Texas.
Bold right?
Well, this might rightly be so as it spans 120 miles in length, is 20 miles wide, and is 800 feet deep, with a latitude of 34.984709 and a longitude of -101.701867.
Are you rethinking your hike around this beauty?
Oh no, don’t.
You can do it!
And if you get tired, you can pitch your tent and camp out.
You will be accompanied by a number of bird watchers.
Not in the mood to rough it out while you camp?
Then take the option of “Glamping”; this refers to luxurious camping.
So, it is camping, but without the cramps to your style, you will be provided with microwaves, gas fire pits, bicycles, gas grills, coffee makers, air conditioners, etc., at your glamping site.
Mountain bikes, horses, and cars are also allowed as you explore this magnificent location.
There are, however, some rules for your safety on these challenging trails.
Go ahead and make your reservations.
Address: 11450 Park Road 5, Canyon, TX 79015
2. Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum (History & Culture Showcase)
Ready for a trip far back in time?
Don’t worry; you will be brought right back at your first request.
Take a trip to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum.
This museum was built in 1922, and its perception of its role remains the same, which is to pass down the records of life from generation to generation.
And they have held up their end of this.
You will find so much history and culture of the Texas people in this museum and artifacts dating back decades.
Dinosaurs, check!
Conquistadors, double check!
From the time of saddles to automobiles, all things in between can be found at Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum.
Check out their website to plan your visit.
Address: 2503 4th Avenue, Canyon, Texas 79015
Also see our article on Planetariums in Texas.
Attractions in Austin, Texas
1. Blanton (Voted Best Museum)
Blanton is “the” museum for art in Austin and was voted Best Museum in 2023 Austin Chronicle’s “Best of Austin.”
Have you really experienced art till you have seen the exhibitions at Blanton?
I don’t think so.
Sections of this museum are lined with contemporary projects such as the Las Hermanas Iglesias; the film and video gallery showing VLM (Virginia L. Montgomery); the Paper Vault showcasing Medieval X Modern; Special presentations such as the Caraa cara / Face to Face: Portraits by Chicano Artists from the Gilberto Cárdenas and Dolores Garcia Collection.
These are just a few of the ongoing exhibitions to be enjoyed at Blanton.
Ticket prices differ based on the age of visitors, but this museum is open from Tuesday to Sunday.
Address: 200 E. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd. Austin, TX 78712
2. McKinney Falls State Park (Nature, Hiking & Camping)
Hiking, camping, waterfalls, and parks!
These are a few of your favorite things, right?
Knew it!
This is just the spot for you.
Relax at the McKinney Falls State Park on a Sunday afternoon with a book in your hand and the sound of the waterfall in the background.
Or take a hike on a cool Saturday morning and take in the beauty of nature.
Know what’s better?
You don’t have to pick just one.
Enjoy an entire weekend, go camping at McKinney Falls State Park, and explore it to your fullest.
However, you should ensure that your camping dates do not coincide with any events at the park.
Take a break, relax, and detox!
Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744, United States.
Also see our article on Places to Visit in Texas.
Attractions in Galveston, Texas
1. Moody Gardens (Amusement Park & Attractions)
This garden might be called moody, but there’s nothing moody about it.
If you’re in Galveston and need somewhere to take the kids to relax and have a lot of fun, this is the place for you.
Moody Gardens is an amusement park with a hotel and lots of fun attractions for both children and adults.
It has a whole lot of fun and engaging attractions that include an aquarium, zip-line, paddlewheel boat, herb garden, The Rainforest Pyramid, ropes course, a water area known as the Palm Beach, and a 4D theater, to mention a few.
They also have a bar, spa, restaurant, and an 18-hole golf course.
It is the ideal space for having the ultimate fun experience.
Moody Gardens is open from 10 am to 7 pm every day and accepts only credit card payments.
Address: 1 Hope Blvd, Galveston, TX 77554, United States.
2. Bishop’s Palace (Historic Landmark & Self-Guided Tours)
Bishop’s Palace, also known as Gresham House, is a landmark in Galveston.
The Gresham family formerly owned it in the 90s, but it is now owned by the Galveston Historical Foundation.
It is a historic site where visitors come for self-guided tours around the house.
The house has four floors, so be prepared to do a little bit of walking while you’re there.
While touring, there are audio tours with photographs and a written transcript provided.
The entrance comes at a small fee, but it is free for children five and under.
It is also a place where you can book wedding photography shoots due to its appealing background.
If you live anything from the Victorian era, this is a place you should endeavor to visit.
They are open between 10 am and 5 pm every day.
Address:1402 Broadway Avenue J, Galveston, TX 77550, United States.
3. Galveston Railroad Museum (Rail & Museum Experience)
The Galveston Railroad Museum is a rail museum.
Yes.
You heard right.
It’s the ultimate rail and museum experience.
Are you a fan of trains?
If you are, this should be on the top of your following vacation list of places you want to visit.
Just imagine.
A whole day with something you love.
The museum restores and re-uses historic facilities and equipment related to railroad transport.
They also use them to support and develop educational programs that are related to railroad transport.
Also, they allow tours of rail cars, and you can also ride on a caboose.
Lunch in a dining car is one of their unique features.
You can also book any of the rides for events like wedding dinner rehearsals.
They are open between 10 am and 5 pm every day.
Address: 2602 Santa Fe Pl, Galveston, TX 77550, United States.
Also see our article on Bowling in Texas.
Attractions in Fort Worth, Texas
1. Trinity Park (First Parkland & Scenic Trails)
Trinity Park is the first parkland in the whole Fort Worth area.
It features bike paths, walking trails and ponds, and a fishing trail, all with beautiful scenery.
Trinity Park is the place for the most enjoyable hiking experience.
There is also a playgroup that offers loads of fun and excitement for children.
Waterfowl also settle at the park in winter, and they are always an enjoyable sight to behold.
The park also has other amenities, which include a basketball court, bridge, benches, drinking fountain, electrical box, grill, bike rack, slides, swings, shelters, and restroom.
It also has tables where you can hold picnics for a group or family.
Dogs are allowed at this park, so your pets can join the fun.
The park is open from 5 am to 11: 30 pm daily, so you have almost the whole day to enjoy.
2401 University Dr, Fort Worth, TX 76102, United States.
2. Fort Worth Water Gardens (Beautiful Oasis & Water Features)
Have you ever heard of a water garden?
You’re about to, and this is a place you should definitely stop by if you’re ever in Fort Worth.
It is a beautiful oasis close to the Fort Worth Convention Center.
There are a variety of water features that you can see as you walk through the park.
One of the most eye-catching is the active pool.
The dynamic pool has water going down stores to form a small pool at the bottom.
You can walk down the steps and experience the soothing beauty of the sound of flowing water firsthand.
The park can be enjoyed at any time of the year but is most preferable when it isn’t winter for obvious reasons.
Entry into the water garden is free, but you might need to pay for parking on the street at a parking meter.
Fort Worth Water Gardens is open from 6 am to 10 pm daily.
Address: 1502 Commerce St, Fort Worth, TX 76102, United States.
Also see our article on Tourist Places in Texas.
Attractions in Amarillo, Texas
1. Big Texan Steak Ranch (72-Ounce Steak Challenge)
Is this list really complete without a food location?
Although you might not count food as an “attraction,” you are about to change your mind.
Amarillo’s Big Texan Steak Ranch is a restaurant that has become infamous for its 72-ounce steak challenge.
Yup!
You read right.
Many people have traveled down to Amarillo for the very singular purpose of partaking in this challenge.
And quite a number have been successful.
You might be the next winner.
The best part is this challenge is free; if you successfully finish the entire meal, you will be refunded the total amount.
This total payment is to be made before the challenge begins.
However, you do not need to make any prior arrangements or reservations.
Simply walk into the restaurant within business hours and indicate your interest.
Sounds fun right?
Visit the website for more details on this.
GOODLUCK!
Address: Big Texan Restaurant & Motel – 7701 Interstate 40 East Access Rd, Amarillo, TX 79118
It’s summer, and you’re tired of keeping the kids at home?
They’re bored and getting on your last nerves.
Wonderland Amusement Park was made with you in mind.
With fantastic attractions like coaster rides, thriller rides, water rides, slides, games, and lots of fun kids’ rides, you can keep them occupied the whole day and out of your space.
You, too, can have a little fun while they’re at it.
There’s a miniature golf course, a bumper car ride, and family classic rides.
The whole family gets something out of the experience.
While there, you might want to try these two amazing rides; Drop of Fear and Texas Intimidator.
Food and drink booths are also available for when you get hungry or thirsty.
The park is closed on Mondays and open between 7 to 10 pm on Tuesdays to Thursdays, 5 to 10 pm on Fridays, and 1 to 10 pm on Saturdays and Sundays.
Holiday hours are between 1 to 8 pm.
Address:2601 Dumas Drive, Amarillo, TX 79107, United States
Also see our article on Ziplining in Texas.
Attractions in San Antonio, Texas
1. Natural Bridge Caverns (Hidden Wonders of Nature)
I hope you’re not scared of bats.
Natural Bridge Caverns is a family-owned tourist attraction providing you with the hidden wonders of nature.
This Cavern is a beautiful spot with many activities; you might find some precious gems at the “Mining Company.”
Have some good old-fashioned family fun as you mine, or try to make your way through a 5,000-square-foot maze in the Amazen’ Ranch Roundup.
Are you scared of heights?
No?
Then go above Texas in the Twisted Trails.
The Discovery Tours, Hidden Wonder Tours, Adventure Tours, and many more are available daily for your experience.
You can also explore the caves, go zip-lining, and see the formation of stalagmites.
Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, Natural Bridge Caverns, TX 78266
2. The Alamo (Historic Site & Immersive Tours)
Welcome to the Historic site that is the Alamo!
Want a peek into Texas’ history?
You found just the place.
Walk through the history and events that comprise the story of the Alamo, including the Battle of the Alamo.
Experience the Alamo Exhibit, Alamo Church, and the Spanish Mission Complex
Immerse yourself in the culture of this beautiful city so rich in history and even witness a musket firing demonstration.
The best part is that there are several tour packages to best suit your needs.
Enjoy virtual or on-site tours, private or group tours, and even after-hours tours.
Great, right?
These packages come at different prices based on your preference, all of which can be seen and booked on the website.
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
Also see our article on Mountains in Texas.
Attractions in Waco, Texas
1. Dr. Pepper Museum (Soft Drink History)
Dr. Pepper Museum is a bottling plant museum in Waco, Texas, that is nonprofit and examines the history of soft drinks.
It was built in 1906, and the museum carries out tours and special programs in and around the bottling plant.
They have special programs like Make-A-Soda and Taste-A-Soda.
These programs require you to book reservations, but you do not need to book to visit the museum.
You can buy tickets for 10 dollars at the entrance to the museum, but tickets are not sold online.
What’s more?
After paying your admission fee, you get a voucher to collect a free Dr. Pepper drink, and admission is free for museum members and children four and under.
Once you’ve paid, you can go through the museum at your own pace.
No rush.
They are open between 10 am and 5:30 pm Mondays and Wednesdays, 10 am and 7 pm Thursdays to Saturdays, and 12 pm and 5:30 pm on Sundays.
Address: 300 S 5th, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
2. Cameron Park Zoo (Wildlife Experience & Exotic Animals)
Cameron Park Zoo, located within Cameron Park Waco, combines natural habitats with close-up encounters with over 1,731 animals.
It is the ultimate wildlife experience.
They feature endangered species and the most exotic animals like the Komodo Dragon, orangutans, and tigers.
Cameron Park Zoo has beautiful native vegetation, waterfalls, an attractive lake, and ponds.
It’s the perfect place to relax.
Tickets can be purchased on the website, and you can save it on your phone or print it out before coming to the zoo.
It’s the perfect place for children to keep themselves occupied and have fun at the same time.
This zoo is open from 9 am to 5 pm, Mondays to Saturdays, and 11 am to 5 pm on Sundays.
They are, however, closed on Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day.
You can get a discount admission fee if you’re going in a group of 15 or more, and tickets are free for children two and under.
Address: 1701 N 4th St, Waco, TX 76701, United States.
If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Castles, Outdoor Activities, and Trampoline Parks in Texas.
Looking beyond Texas? Check out our article on the best Attractions in Florida and New York.