As the saying goes, everything is bigger in Texas. From its wide-open spaces and beautiful Gulf beaches to its towering mountain peaks and vibrant city centres, the Lone Star State packs a big punch. Whether you want to explore one of Texas’ many parks and preserves, visit the significant historical attractions, or simply gorge on the world-famous BBQ, you’ll have plenty of opportunities to do so. There are endless areas in this southern state that deserve a place on every traveller’s bucket list, but below you’ll find the top 3 cities in Texas that you HAVE to visit.
Top 3 Cities
Dallas
Dallas is the state’s northern hub and the unofficial poster child of Texas. But there’s more to see here than locals clad in big hats and cowboy boots. The modern downtown area boasts one of the largest art districts in the country, and the Dallas Museum of Art is worth a visit even if you don’t consider yourself an art buff. There are also tons of parks, bars, and restaurants to discover in Dallas’ downtown area.
Uptown is another fun area for visitors, and this lively neighbourhood is full to the brim with upscale restaurants, trendy cocktail bars, and boutique shops.
If you’re travelling with the kids, don’t miss the fabulous Dallas World Aquarium or the Perot Museum of Nature. Other noteworthy Dallas attractions you shouldn’t skip include the observation deck in the Reunion Tower, the Dallas Arboretum, and if you’re a sports fan, the AT&T Stadium – home of the Dallas Cowboys.
It may be tempting to spend all your time in Dallas, and many who visit ask themselves why they aren’t living there! But once you’re ready to explore more of Texas, take a bus from Dallas to Austin to check out the next must-see city.
Austin
Located in the south-central part of the state, the capital of Texas is known for its colourful character, awesome live-music scene, and endless expanses of green space. Lady Bird Lake is the city’s centrepiece and offers fun activities like kayaking and paddle boarding. The park surrounding the lake has verdant jogging and cycling trails as well. The nearby Zilker Metropolitan Park is a local favourite, with over 350 acres for swimming, picnicking, and canoeing. Austin is quickly making a name for itself in the culinary world. Diners will find an eclectic mix of cuisine around the city, from food trucks with finger-lickin’ good barbeque to white tablecloth restaurants serving up fresh farm-to-table meals.
After dinner, be sure to experience some of Austin’s famously vibrant nightlife. Live music can be found in bars across the city seven days a week, and whether you’re a fan of country, blues, rock n’ roll, or something else, you’ll likely find a venue suited to your preferences. Sixth Street is the hub of live music in Austin, so wander here for a while until you hear something floating out from one of the many bars along this stretch. You could also plan your trip around one of the City’s two famous music festivals: South by Southwest and Austin City Limits Festival.
Next, hop on a bus from Austin to San Antonio to discover the last of the top three cities in Texas you have to visit.
San Antonio
Located just south of Austin, San Antonio is the state’s second-biggest city. This large city is home to two of Texas’s top attractions: the Alamo and the beautiful River Walk situated along the San Antonio River. History buffs are especially fond of San Antonio, and the Alamo sees more visitors than any other historic landmark in the entire state. This is where Texas fought for independence from Mexico back in 1836, and there are also tons of fascinating museums, Spanish-era missions, and other historic sites around the city.
The River Walk cuts through the downtown area and offers up scenic views and plenty of lively cafes, shops, bars, and restaurants. You can trek this area on foot or rent a bicycle from one of the city’s many bike shops.
In addition to its two main claims to fame, San Antonio has an abundance of family-friendly offerings. There’s a wealth of amusement parks, sports fields, and shopping malls here, and adventurous travellers can head to Breckenridge Park for a game of golf, a stroll in the lush gardens, or a trip to the San Antonio Zoo.
San Antonio is a multicultural city, which extends to its food scene, as well. You’d be hard-pressed to find a better spot to enjoy some signature Tex-Mex, and there are plenty of delicious barbeque joints and upscale eateries as well.
No matter which of Texas’ top three cities you decide to visit, or if you visit all three, you’re sure to have a great time!
*Collaborative post
Debz Louise is a plus-size blogger based in Yorkshire. Behind many nationwide campaigns such as #WeaAreTheThey & winner of Best Blogger at the UK Plus Size Awards, she talkas about life as a plus-size 40-something woman in South Yorkshire.
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