23 Tourist Places in TEXAS (Scenic, Cultural & Fascinating)

You must have heard that Texas, which is fondly called the lone star state, is home to numerous tourist attractions, sights, and cultures.

Texas, the largest state in the United States, is a melting pot of various cultures, traditions, and nations.

The state is also home to many historical sites and attractions and is visited annually by thousands of tourists looking to explore all Texas offers.

Do you, however, know all that Texas has to offer, or are you still searching for the fantastic sights in Texas?

Look no further, as this article is a worthy map for exploring all Texas offers.

So, sit back and drive through the city of Texas on the wheels of this article.

And by the way, you may also want to check out the best Places to Visit in Texas.

Tourist Places in Dallas, Texas

1. Stone Street Gardens (Cultural Cuisine Hub)

Looking for a safe and clean garden to have picnics, take walks or bask in the beautiful scenery?

Stone Street Gardens has all you need.

It is a stone-cobbled street sandwiched between Main Street and Elm Street, and it is home to numerous eating and hangout spots.

Touted as a melting point of nations, Stone Street plays host to a variety of cuisine.

Some of which include American, Mexican, Italian, and even seafood.

It also hosts several sights like the Thanksgiving Tower, Infinity Pool, and the Pegasus.

A stroll through Stone Street Gardens would leave you feeling exhilarated, allowing you to sample some of the best outdoor dishes in the heart of Texas.

So, allow your steps to wander into the mysterious world of Stone Street Gardens.

Address: Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Tower.

2. Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Tower (JFK’s Life Chronicle)

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is home to the Museum of assassinated United States President; John F. Kennedy.

Sixth Floor Museum chronicles the life of John F. Kennedy from birth up until his assassination.

It was located on the sixth floor of Dealey Plaza and was founded in 1989 by the Dallas County Dallas Foundation.

The Museum shows historic films, photographs, and artifacts to tell the story of the assassination in 1989.

You can enjoy the Museum with friends and family through its several tour companies.

A visit to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Tower would leave you inspired by one of America’s own.

So, spend a fulfilled day studying the life of one of America’s greatest presidents.

Address: 11 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202, USA

3. Bishop Arts District (Charming Dallas Hub)

Located in the heart of Dallas, Bishop Arts District is one of the most charming districts in Texas.

The district has over 60 restaurants, shopping boutiques, art galleries, parks, bars, and other outdoor events. 

It is Dallas’s most unique neighborhood due to its many outdoor activities in one location. 

If you are interested in the arts, then the Kesley Theater, Bishop Arts Theater, or the Texas Theater in the heart of Texas would be a good fit.

Restaurants such as Lucia, Bolsa, and Zen Sushi serve some of the best continental dishes in Texas, which you can sample from.

For shopping, Zola’s Everyday, Vintage, and Artisan’s Collections are some of the best fits for you.

Zola’s Everyday deals specifically in consignments, while places like we are 1976 deal in vintage styles.

So, whatever you are looking for, there is always a place for you at Bishop Arts District.

Address: Dallas, TX 75208, USA.

4. Six Flags Over Texas (Culturally Diverse Theme)

Located in Arlington, Six Flags Over Texas is a 212-acre land with amusement parks and themes.

Established as a replica of Disneyland, Six Flags Over Texas is known for its culturally diverse themes representing several cultures in the Dallas area.

Some of its events include grad nite, Oktoberfest, July fireworks, and fright fest.

The park was set up 60 years ago and has grown into one of Texas’s largest, with over 100 attractions and numerous fun activities.

Most rides at the amusement parks would leave you feeling light and exhilarated, which is just what the park is for, to enable you to make memories with loved ones.

So even if it is your first time in Texas, there is always a place and an event for you at Six Flags.

Address: Arlington, TX 76011, USA.

Also see our article on Birthday Places in Texas.

Tourist Places in East Texas, Texas

1. Jefferson Railway (19th Century Train)

The Jefferson Railway is a 19th Century railway corporation set up to imitate the train rides of the 19th century.

With a train established in 1964, the 40-minute ride takes you across Cypress Bayou.

There are so many sights to see on the way, and you get to experience East Texas through a train ride; pretty cool, yeah?

You can see the first artificial gas plant in the state, the confederate powder magazine from the civil war era, and some other scenic pictures and views.

Pets are also allowed at the premises, provided their owners can keep them in check.

The Jefferson Railway drive should be on your bucket list when you visit East Texas.

Are you ready to drive through Texas through the lens of a train ride?

Address: 400 E. Austin Street, Jefferson, TX 75657.

2. Texas Country Music Hall (Texas Eiffel Tower)

Think of the Eiffel Tower in Texas but with a cowboy hat and not in France but in the heart of East Texas.

Located in Paris, the Eiffel Tower is a worthy landmark in East Texas.

The Tower was set in 1993 alongside a similar one in Tennessee to provide a similar look to the one in France.

It also contains a 27-thirty-watt LED light often used by intending couples for gender reveal parties.

The lights function according to each festive season.

Although the Tower in Texas is smaller in height than the one in Paris, it would make a great stop on your journey around Texas, allowing you to learn a little about the culture at the Tower.

So, if you cannot get to Paris, France, you can get to Paris, East Texas.

Address: 2025 S Collegiate Dr, Paris, TX 75460, USA.

3. Goodman Le Grand House and Museum (19th Century Landmark)

The Le Grand House, referred to as Bonnie House by its owner, is a Greek-style cottage built in the latter part of the 19th century.

It is unique as it was notable for its active participation in local civil affairs in the area and was a refugee spot for numerous families fleeing the confederate war.

In 1962, the National Register for Historic Listings listed the House as a landmark.

Today, it is an open walk-in museum for the public to view East Texas’s political life and times in the 19th century.

The Museum is also a delight for antique lovers and historians who visit annually to view the masterpiece.

Goodman Le Grand House and Museum should be on your travel bucket list when visiting Texas.

Address: Goodman Park, 624 N Broadway Ave, Tyler, TX 75702, USA.

Also see our article on Abandoned Places in Texas.

Tourist Places in Houston, Texas

1. The Museum of Fine Arts (Artistic Masterpieces Collection)

The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston is one of the most prominent art museums in the United States.

With over 65,00 artworks and collections, the Museum is home to some of the finest art pieces collected from various eras in the United States.

It also contains two smaller house museums for some added artworks, 2 libraries, a cafe, a repertory cinema, the Glasses Studio Art School, a sculpture garden, a conservation facility, and a building for storage and archives.

Recognized as the oldest Museum in Texas, it opened to the public in 1924.

William Watkin designed it in the classical Greek style, which was popular in that era.

The Museum is perfect for art lovers and historians alike.

Address: 1001 Bissonnet St, Houston, TX 77005, United States.

2. Space Center (Educational Space Hub)

Have you ever wanted to visit a space center in one of America’s busiest cities?

The Space Center in Houston is your best bet.

It is one of Houston’s prominent attractions, bringing international visitors from other widely acclaimed space centers.

Educational advancement and knowledge are the focal points of the Museum; thus, it seeks to educate the local public and international community on the planet and outer space.

As mentioned, it also spikes a natural interest in science and mathematics and is considered an excellent place to start if you desire a career. 

Used as a recreational and educational advancement center, it is open to the general public and recommends arriving early on weekends, holidays, and during the summer.

So, increase your knowledge of outer space while visiting the Space Center.

Address: 1601 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058, USA.

3. Discovery Green Gardens and Parks (Nature’s Oasis in Texas)

Are you looking for a place to admire nature’s finest creations and feed your eyes on the beautiful scenery in Texas?

Then the Discovery Green Parks and Gardens is your go-to place.

It was built in the early 2000s through a public-private partnership.

Discovery Greens Park and Gardens sits on 11.8 acres of land and is home to a lake, a playground, 2 dog runs, several recreational lawns, a bandstand, and space for public events.

The park also contains a farmers market for shopping purposes, art fairs and parades to lighten the atmosphere for its visitors, and an ice skating rink depending on the time of the year you decide to visit. 

With all that you need to have maximum fun at the Center, indulge yourself in a visit to discovery green today.

Address: 1500 McKinney Street Houston, TX 77010.

4. Houston Zoo (Home to 6000+ Animals)

Get a chance to connect with some of man’s best companions at the Houston Zoo.

The zoo houses over 6000 animals from over 600 aminal species.

With a visiting population of over 2.1 million annually, it is touted as one of America’s most visited zoos annually.

To save America’s wildlife and ecotourism, the Houston Zoo connects animals, including endangered ones, to a natural habitat but in a protected space.

Its most visited animals are the African Painted Dog, American Alligator, Green Anacinda, Ankole Cattle, Bald Eagle, Black bear, Giant Anteater, Eastern Bongo, Cheetah, Cougars, Blue Duiker, Bonnethead Shark, Common Clownfish, Asian Elephant and Amazon Milk Frog.

Some of its exhibits include the African Forest and the Wortham World of Pirates.

Address: 6200 Hermann Park Dr, Houston, TX 77030, USA.

Also see our article on Museums in Texas.

Tourist Places in Hill Country, Texas

1. Greune Historic City (German-Inspired Texas)

You must have heard that there are European-themed cities in America.

Do you know that Hill Country in Texas is home to a large German city named Greune?

Greune is not just a European city in America; it is a historic city unique to the German people in Texas.

With its settlement built over a century ago, Greune was populated by German coal miners who gave rise to the significant German population in the area.

What was once a thriving city in the early 20th century became a ghost town by 1950 and solely relied on tourism in addition to agriculture.

Some notable places to visit include the Greune Hall, which is known as the oldest dance hall in Texas; the Greune Coffee House for all your caffeine needs; the Gristmill Restaurant, which is a replica of the original cotton mill, and the Greune Antique Company which houses over 6500 antique collections.

If you desire a feel of old rustic Texas in the 21st century, the Greune Historic City is your go-to spot.

Address: 1601 Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, Texas.

2. Leukenbach (Country Music Hub)

Leukenbach takes its name after a German nobleman who had been prominent in the Texas Hill Country in 1845.

Today, Leukenbach is known for its country music, with its sounds drawing out thousands of visitors annually.

The city also hosts live musical performances every weekend, with its peak days being Sundays.

Leukenbach received worldwide acclaim for the most guitar players gathered at the same time to play for more than 5 minutes in 2009 at a fundraiser organized by Voices of a Grateful Nation.

Asides from music, Leukenbach is referred to as a ghost town and only comes alive at its musical festivals, concerts, and fundraisers.

It, however, has an antique store.

Are you ready to experience the magical sounds emanating from Leukenbach?

Address: 412 Luckenbach Town Loop Fredericksburg, Texas 78624.

3. Enchanted Rock State Natural (Pink Granite Wonder)

Embrace the mystery and enchanted feeling of climbing the Enchanted Rock State Natural.

The Enchanted Rock State Natural is a pink granite-formed dome that continues to draw thousands of tourists yearly to the Hill Country area.

Established more than 3 decades ago by The Nature Conservatory, the park preserves the massive, mysterious Enchanted Rock.

Local Folklore states that the rock was formed 1 billion years ago and is the aftermath of a geographical occurrence known as the Batholith.

Many tourists embrace the magical songs of its Canyon Wrens near the base.

The area is a tourist haven for botanists who study rare bird species such as Bewick’s Wren, Carolina Chickadee, and yellow-rumped Warbler.

Get ready to step into the enchanting world that the Rock State Natural has to offer.

Address: 16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, USA.

4. Fredericksburg (Historic Hill Country)

Congratulations, you have reached the city that never sleeps!

The tourist places in the Hill Country can only be complete with a special mention of the city of Fredericksburg.

Known popularly as the most visited place in Texas, Fredericksburg has a thousand and one attractions to offer.

From restaurants to shopping malls, bars, and festivals, Fredericksburg has everything you need in one place.

The town was settled in by German immigrants in 1846 and still maintains its German culture and traditions down to its roots till date.

So, you can indulge in German Sauerbraten or pluck some unique wildflowers for yourself or someone special.

Fredericksburg is a top spot for destination weddings due to its beautiful ambiance, which comprises ranches, parks, and historic church buildings.

Pay a visit to Fredericksburg today, and you will wish never to leave. 

Also see our article on Hidden Gems in Texas.

Tourist Places in San Antonio, Texas

1. The Alamo (Historic Fortress Site)

Founded as a church in the 18th Century by Roman Catholic missionaries, Alamo has served as a fortress from the 18th century until now.

Alamo is one of the most historical sites today; with so many events and occurrences, it is one of the most visited tourist attractions in the world.

It is also the site for the infamous battle of the Alamo, which took place in the 18th century.

Today, it serves as a museum, and numerous stories are spoken of through the mouthpiece of a tour guide.

Its visitors are allowed a 30-minute tour of the building, which shaped American history and was a significant part of the battle for Texas.

The tour includes a look inside the Alamo castle and a visit to the Raelston Family Collection Center, which houses essential artifacts.

Are you ready to walk in the shoes of our heroes at the Alamo castle?

Address: 300 Alamo Plaza San Antonio, Texas 78205.

2. Six Flags Fiesta (Thrilling Theme Park)

Let your mind come alive with a visit to the Six Flags Fiesta for your vacation.

It was opened initially as a music-themed Park in 1993, later bought by Warner Company and renamed Six Flags Fiesta.

The park is home to a 205 feet tall structure known as the Scream Drop Tower Ride.

Its Scream Drop Tower Ride is so tall, and it is seen from the exterior parts of the park.

Other attractions include the Los Festivales, set up to celebrate the richness of the Hispanic culture, DC Universe, Thrill Seeker Park, Crackaxle Canyon Steampunk District, and Spassburg, which celebrates German culture in Texas, amongst others.

Are you ready to ride into the energetic world Six Flags Park offers?

Address: 17000 W I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257, USA.

3. San Antonio RiverWalk Cruise (Texas’s Top Attraction)

The San Antonio RiverWalk is a solution to a problem that has plagued the people of San Antonio.

Floods had previously destroyed lives and businesses in San Antonio, and someone suggested that the city build a bypass over a prominent bend to curtail the flooding.

The bend became San Antonio’s Riverwalk and had a dedicated commercial section.

On the Riverwalk, you can experience the sights and sounds of San Antonio through the bustling commercial district and the beautiful scenery overlooking the river.

Touted as Texas’s number one attraction, the Riverwalk features the Ford Mariachi Festival, Fiesta Artisan Show, and the Bud Light Pride River Parade & Celebration.

Are you ready to answer the call of the Riverwalk and walk through the beautiful memories which it has to offer?

Address: 100 E. Guenther St. San Antonio, Texas 78204.

4. Japanese Tea Garden (Asian Culture Oasis)

What was once an abandoned quarry in the 20th century is now home to the Japanese Tea Garden in San Antonio.

During the heat of world war 2, the garden changed to the Chinese tea garden to protect it from vandals who were anti-japanese.

Today, the tea garden is listed on the United States National Register of Historic Places and is visited annually by tourists.

Japanese Tea Garden is known for its beautiful ambiance and antique artworks and is visited by tourists who long for a glimpse into Asian culture.

It is a destination for weddings, burials, luncheons, and other outdoor events upon reservation.

The garden is also home to a large waterfall, renovated in 2007, and aquatic plants like the Koi plants.

Are you ready to immerse yourself in the rich cultures of the far east?

Address: 3853 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212, USA.

Also see our article on Castles in Texas.

Tourist Places in Austin, Texas

1. Texas Capitol Building (Architectural Marvel)

The Texas Capitol stands tall as one of the most prominent state capitol buildings in the United States.

First constructed as a log cabin with 2 smaller rooms, today it stands to stall as one of America’s most beautiful state buildings with exquisite architectural designs.

In 1986, it was placed on America’s National Historic Landmarks.

Its significant spaces include the Senate Chambers, Governors Public Reception, Rotunda, Texas Supreme Court, Legislative Reference Library, Agricultural Museum, and the South Foyer.

The Texas Capitol Building at Austin is the pride of the people of Austin, as it is a notable tourist attraction all over Texas and beyond.

Visit the Texas Capitol Building and see what it has.

It is described as Texas’s 8th wonder. 

Address: 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA.

2. Barton Springs Municipal Pool (Sacred Spring Attraction)

Do you know that the Barton Springs Municipal pool is considered sacred by the people of Austin and was used for purification rites by the tribes of Native Americans who once inhabited the area?

Today, the Barton Springs Municipal Pool attracts crowds from different walks of life, even legislators who have made laws at the pool.

Located within Zilker Park, the pool draws its water from the fourth Spring in Texas, Barton Creek.

The Spring is listed as a protected habitat and is home to the Barton Springs Salamander under the “endangered” status.

Barton Springs pool is open every day of the week from 5 AM to 8 AM and from 8 AM to 10 PM.

lt also provides a guarded swimming adventure for users between 8 AM to 10 PM.

Address: 2201 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746, USA.

3. Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (Floral Wonderland Retreat)

Are you a lover of Flowers and plants?

Would you like to spend an afternoon in the exciting world of flowers and observe them in their natural habitat?

Then you should visit the Lady Bird Wildflower Center in Austin.

Not limited to birds, the Center also conserves plants by collecting seeds and preparing ecological seedlings.

Originally established as the state’s conservatory, the state renamed it to honor the former first lady of Texas, Lady Bird Johnson, who made significant contributions to beautifying the state.

With over 970 plant species, the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower is open for tourists all year round, regardless of the season.

It would be best to watch for notable events like the Spring Native Plant sale, Tuesday Twilights, Field of Lights, and Fortlandia.

Address: 4801 La Crosse Ave, Austin, TX 78739, USA.

4. The Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge (World’s Largest Bat Colony)

Do you know that the largest bat colony in the world is in Texas?

Indeed, the largest bat colony in the world exists in Austin, Texas.

The Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridges is home to 1.5 million bats, bringing in thousands of visitors annually.

It was constructed in 1910 and is arched over Bird Lake.

The bats had been at the Center since the early 1980s but were not accepted by the public.

However, with the efforts of international societies, the public’s opinion about bats changed, increasing visitors and providing economic value to the people of Austin.

The bat is an important center of how humans and animals can coexist beautifully.

Spend an evening exploring the exciting world of bats on the bridge or the river.

Address: Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78704, USA. 

If you liked this article, you may also like to read about the best Zoos, Botanical Gardens, and Castles in Texas.

Looking beyond Texas? Check out our article on the best Tourist Places in Florida.