As the second largest state in the country, Texas is known for its unique personality. Its massive size means that Texas boasts a variety of cultures, including the Southern Dixie lifestyle in the east, the technological corridors around Austin and Houston, the Big Oil culture in Dallas, and the cattle ranchers and cowboys who are strongly influenced by Mexican culture to the west. As a result, Texas is a melting pot that features a tremendous array of attractions that stem from its diverse geography and colorful history.
The Alamo, located in the heart of San Antonio, is practically synonymous with Texan history. Originally one of five Spanish Catholic missions built in 1718, Alamo Plaza is the famous site where nearly 200 settlers fell after the 1836 siege by the Mexican army. Today, 2.5 million people visit the original fort each year where they find relics from the Battle of the Alamo and the Republic of Texas. Admission is free. Open every day except Christmas.
The Alamo
300 Alamo Plaza
San Antonio, TX 78205-2606
210-225-1391?
thealamo.org
NASA's Johnson Space Center has been the \"ground control\" to space missions since the 1960s. It is home to space shuttles, astronauts and the history of space exploration. Space Center Houston is its official visitor center, which features relics of the past, such he Historic Mission Control Center. The Center also gives visitors the chance to see NASA at work today. They can tour the current Mission Control Center from an observation catwalk, go on a behind-the-scenes tour Johnson Space Center and the watch tests in Space Vehicle Mockup Facility. They can also take a space walk in the Space Environment Simulation Lab, where astronauts train for upcoming missions. Open throughout the year.
Space Center Houston
1601 NASA Parkway (formerly NASA Rd 1)
Houston, Texas 77058
281-244-2100
nasa.gov/centers/johnson/home/index.html
The Padre Island National Seashore is situated along the south Texas coast, and protects a 70-mile stretch of barrier island coastline. The national park features a range of environments and ecosystems, including pristine sandy beaches, dunes, and tidal flats. It is a popular beach, especially for families and area college students. A park highlight is that it serves as an important refuge and research center for sea turtles. Each spring, crowds come out to watch the park biologists release sea turtle hatchlings into the Gulf of Mexico.
Padre Island National Seashore
Malaquite Visitor Center
PO Box 181300
Corpus Christi, TX 78480-1300
361-949-8068
nps.gov/pais/index.htm
The San Antonio River Walk is located one story below street-level in the city's vibrant downtown area and features a network of sheltered walkways and bridges that crisscross the San Antonio River. The scenic river is flanked by shops, restaurants, bars and art galleries, which create a unique and peaceful walkway filled with relaxing outdoor patios, lovely landscaping, public art spaces, boutiques and farmers markets. The River Walk was recently extended by a mile to the San Antonio Museum of Art. River taxis and barge cruises are a popular way experience the River Walk.
San Antonio River Walk
110 Broadway, Suite 500
San Antonio, TX 78205
210-227-4262
visitsanantonio.com/visitors/play/the-river-walk/index.aspx
