Texas: Destination Gems Within the Lone Star State

While it may have the distinction of being the home for all things “dude ranch," make no mistake, Texas is that and SO much more. With its culturally diverse offerings, you are certain to find that Texas has a bevy of things to experience which will keep you and your family engaged and eager for more throughout a vacation there. Here are a few destinations within Texas that are ideal for you to consider when planning your next vacation.

Kayak or paddleboard on Lady Bird Lake.

Austin
As the capital of Texas, Austin is an ideal representation of old and new living harmoniously. In the morning, you and your family can experience a horseback ride at one of the many ranches within the Austin’s city limits, go ziplining in the afternoon and then experience live music at a host of venues in the evening. Of course, Austin is known as a major foodie capital, so finding your fill at some of the most creative and inspired eateries will be central to your visit to this welcoming city. Austin’s Hill Country is home to its vibrant wine country where dozens of estate wineries produce flavorful varietals including: Cabernet Sauvignon, Bordeaux, Pinots, and Rhone-style vintages. Virtually every imaginable global cuisine is represented within Austin, from Korean to Caribbean to Italian and every destination in between, your palate won’t experience boredom. What’s a visit to Texas without enjoying Tex-Mex, BBQ and New American cuisine? It’s an incomplete visit. So be sure to enjoy all of these mouthwatering Texan delights to your heart’s content. You can work off the indulgent calories with some kayaking at Lady Bird Lake, swimming at Zilker Park and biking throughout Austin.

The Alamo (a UNESCO Heritage Site)

San Antonio
Home to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & The Alamo (a UNESCO Heritage Site), San Antonio is not only a center of history, it is a hub for culture and the performing arts. Venues such as the Institute of Texan Cultures, Casa Navarro State Historic Site, the Carver Community Cultural Center, and the Mexican Cultural Institute are among some of the most culturally relevant places for your family to experience while visiting San Antonio.

History and the future come alive at NASA’s Johnson Space Center.

Houston
As one of Texas’s major metropolitan centers, Houston offers visitors a wide array of exciting offerings. As the fourth largest city in the US, Houston is also one of the most culturally diverse in the nation, and this is certainly the case when it comes to food! Greek, Mexican, Arabic, and Thai are just a few of the international cuisines that are represented in Houston. Of course, American culinary mainstays such as Creole, Soul Food, Tex-Mex, BBQ, Seafood, etc. are well-represented too. Exploring Houston on a Segway tour gives you a more intimate view of this sprawling city where automobile traffic can be challenging at times. By default, Segways are a nimble means of transportation, so going from a cultural landmark to a museum can be done with ease. Speaking of museums, your family will enjoy the exhibits within the Houston Museum of Natural Science which has five floors of permanent exhibits that focus on Native American culture, paleontology, astronomy, energy, and more. With its interesting and interactive exhibits, your young children will especially appreciate a visit to the Children’s Museum Houston. Billed as a “Playground of the Mind," this museum has been rated as the #1 children’s museum in the U.S. by a top magazine for parents. Your family is certain to enjoy a visit to the NASA Space Center in Houston which serves as is a science museum/visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
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About the Author: The above piece was written by Jason Gordon, a guest travel blogger, and Costco enthusiast. Jason Gordon is compensated by Costco Travel to share his travel experiences.