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Texas Outdoors & Landmarks
Embrace the Detours
There's something epic everywhere you look in Texas. Whether you're looking for historic landmarks like the Alamo, awe-inspiring natural wonders like Enchanted Rock and Palo Duro Canyon, you'll find beautiful landscapes to explore. With activities ranging from bird-watching, off-shore fishing, walking through historic sites, and feeling the warm southern breeze you'll never run out of ways to explore the Lone Star State.
Start Exploring
Only In Texas
Texas may not be the oldest state in the Union, but it certainly has some rich history. Some of the must see landmarks in the Lone Star State are The Alamo in San Antonio, the Texas State Capital in Austin, Strand Historic District in Galveston, USS Lexington in Corpus Christi, and the Governor's Mansion in Austin. If you haven't visited any of these landmarks, make sure you book your hotel and plan your visit today.
The Alamo
Of course, The Alamo should be number one on the itinerary of any first-time visitor to San Antonio. Site of the Battle of the Alamo, a pivotal event in the Texas Revolution, the originally named Misión San Antonio de Valero was built in 1744 and has since been named an official state shrine and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Get Outside
Abilene features a whopping 1,200-acres of parkland, pieced out into 29 different beautiful parks – including Vera Hall Minter Park and Play Faire Park.
The landmark Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge and Katy Trail are great places to stretch your legs, and Dragon Park and Klyde Warren Park are other great places to spend a sunny day.
And there's always the Dallas Aboretum & Botanical Gardens – an absolute must for first-time visitors.
Get Wild
Animal lovers of all ages flock to the Dallas Zoo, but sometimes all you need is a relaxing stroll. If you’re into family outings under the sun, the Abilene Zoological Gardens – featuring 500 animals over 13-acres – is the ideal spot. Be sure to visit the Giraffe Habitat, where you can hand-feed the giraffes from a high bridge in the middle of the Abilene Zoo. Take home your own plush long-necked friend from the Adventure Center and gift shop.
Explore The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and experience eco-tourism at it's best.
In San Antonio, creatures of land and sea are represented at San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium. There families will find a collection of over 3,500 animals representing 750 species. Embark on a San Antonio Zoo Eagle train ride to get a glimpse at the entire 35-acre park while giving your own dogs a rest.
Golden Sands on the Gulf Coast
Check out awesome beaches along the Texas Gulf Coast, Including South Padre Island, Mustang Island, and Galveston Island. No trip to the Texas Gulf Coast would be complete without exploring the beauty of the Padre Island National Seashore.
When you’re on the coast, you have to hit the beach. Luckily for you, Corpus Christi visitor, there are plenty of beaches along the Gulf Coast, and quite a handful in Corpus Christi and surrounding cities.
On Padre Island, Malaquite Beach is an absolute gem. More centrally located, North Beach runs adjacent to the harbor bay bridge, and is minutes from nearby attractions like the Texas State Aquarium.
View a list of our favorite Texas Beaches.
The 70-mile-long Padre Island houses some of the most dazzling beaches and sweeping views you’ll find. Activities like bird watching on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail come highly recommended.