Texas—the Lone Star State—is massive, diverse and rich with unforgettable experiences. From historic forts and cowboy culture to world-class cities, Gulf Coast beaches and national parks, there are countless things to do in Texas whether you’re traveling solo, with family or on a road trip. If you’re searching for things to do near me in Texas, this guide highlights the best attractions across every corner of the state.

Lists of Things to Do in Texas

🏛️ Historic Attractions in Texas

Texas has a bold and complex history shaped by Indigenous cultures, Spanish missions, frontier settlers and the fight for independence. Explore these historic things to do in Texas:

• The Alamo (San Antonio): A must-see, this mission-turned-fortress was the site of the famous 1836 battle for Texas independence.
• San Jacinto Monument (La Porte): Commemorates the battle that secured Texas’ independence from Mexico.
• Texas State Capitol (Austin): One of the most beautiful state capitols in the U.S., offering free tours.
• Fort Davis National Historic Site: Preserved frontier military post in West Texas.
• Dealey Plaza & The Sixth Floor Museum (Dallas): Learn about JFK’s assassination and its lasting legacy.

🎭 Cultural Experiences in Texas

Texas is a cultural crossroads, blending Mexican, Southern and Western traditions with modern creativity. Here are some of the top cultural things to do in Texas:

• Museum of Fine Arts (Houston): One of the largest museums in the country, featuring global art collections.
• Austin’s Live Music Scene: Experience everything from blues to indie rock in the “Live Music Capital of the World.”
• Dallas Arts District: Home to the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center and Morton H. Meyerson Symphony Center.
• Marfa: A quirky desert town filled with modern art installations, including the famous Prada Marfa.
• Historic Stockyards (Fort Worth): See daily cattle drives and catch a rodeo in this Old West district.

🌿 Nature and Wildlife Attractions in Texas

Texas has deserts, mountains, forests, rivers, and coastlines. If you’re looking for natural escapes or wildlife-friendly things to do near me, try these:

• Big Bend National Park: Dramatic canyons, hiking trails and Rio Grande river rafting on the U.S.–Mexico border.
• Guadalupe Mountains National Park: Home to the highest peak in Texas and diverse wildlife.
• Enchanted Rock State Natural Area (Fredericksburg): A massive pink granite dome perfect for hiking and stargazing.
• South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center: A paradise for birdwatchers on the Gulf Coast.
• Caddo Lake: A mysterious, moss-draped lake with bayous and cypress trees in East Texas.

🏖️ Beaches and Outdoor Activities in Texas

From the Gulf Coast to mountain trails, there are endless outdoor things to do in Texas for nature lovers and adventure seekers:

• South Padre Island: Known for its beautiful beaches, dolphin watching and watersports.
• Padre Island National Seashore: The longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island in the world.
• Palo Duro Canyon: The second-largest canyon in the U.S., offering hiking, biking and horseback riding.
• Lady Bird Lake (Austin): Great for paddleboarding, kayaking and hiking along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail.
• Garner State Park: Tubing, swimming and hiking in the scenic Hill Country.

👨‍👩‍👧 Family-Friendly Attractions in Texas

Families have no shortage of fun things to do in Texas. From interactive museums to thrilling amusement parks, here are some highlights:

• Houston Museum of Natural Science: Dinosaurs, space exhibits, a planetarium and butterfly center.
• Space Center Houston: Go behind the scenes of NASA’s Johnson Space Center.
• San Antonio Zoo & The DoSeum: Great spots for younger kids with interactive play and educational exhibits.
• Texas State Aquarium (Corpus Christi): Marine life exhibits, dolphin shows and touch tanks.
• Six Flags Over Texas (Arlington): A classic amusement park with rides for all ages.

🔍 Suggestions and Local Tips

• Best Time to Visit: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer the best weather and wildflower blooms.
• Must-Try Foods: BBQ brisket (Franklin BBQ, Snow’s, or Pecan Lodge), breakfast tacos, Tex-Mex, kolaches and Blue Bell ice cream.
• Unique Experiences: Floating the rivers in New Braunfels, two-stepping at a honky-tonk or attending a Friday night high school football game.
• Popular Festivals: SXSW (Austin), State Fair of Texas (Dallas), Houston Rodeo, Fiesta San Antonio and Wurstfest (New Braunfels).

✅ Final Thoughts

With its immense size, geographic variety, and cultural diversity, Texas offers a truly unique travel experience. Whether you’re exploring its historic missions, hiking through desert canyons, relaxing on Gulf Coast beaches or enjoying big-city attractions, there are endless things to do in Texas. No matter where you are in the Lone Star State, you’ll find exciting things to do near me that match every interest and travel style.