Texas has a rich history and is practically the vanguard of the old West. As the second largest state in the United States, there are many cities that should be explored by visitors to the state. With museums, food, rich history and unparalleled attractions, you can enjoy the best Texas has to offer in Austin, San Antonio, Dallas and Houston.
As the state's capital, Austin's development dates back to the 1800s and today is readily making itself known as a music, film and creative epicenter. But there's a lot more to Austin than the limestone capital building--there are countless attractions that are must-visits for Austin visitors. Also home to the University of Texas, be sure to check out the live music along East Sixth Street, the Red River and the Warehouse District--because Austin is the "Live Music Capital of the World." With dozens of golf courses and clubs, Austin is the perfect destination for avid golfers. Other points of interest include the Domain, Austin's shopping district with more than 700,000 square feet of vintage, jewelry, designer and outlet shops.
Many recognize San Antonio as the Texas city that implores you to "Remember the Alamo." Find the greatest fortress of the Texas Revolution here in San Antonio. Visit the Alamo and take one of the guided tours of the battlefields. Take a cruise along the famed River Walk, a part of the San Antonio River that winds through the city, which is lined with great dining and lots of shops. Enjoy some of the best art in Texas at the San Antonio Museum of Art, or bring the entire family to the Guinness World Records Museum. San Antonio also boasts some of the best Tex-Mex food (Texas and Mexican fusion) around.
Dallas is not only one of the largest cities in Texas but also is a part of one of the largest metropolitan areas in the country, as the economic center of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington area. For more than 6 million patrons since opening in 1989, no trip to Dallas is complete without visiting the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, a prolific museum dedicated to the life, times, and legacy of President John F. Kennedy. For opera lovers, there's the Dallas Symphony Orchestra. Shoppers will love visiting the flagship Neiman Marcus store in downtown Dallas.
The fourth largest city in the country and, naturally, the largest city in the incredibly large state of Texas, Houston is the foremost tourist destination for Texas tourists. Appropriately, find rows upon rows of fine shops (and a skating rink) in the nation's fourth largest mall, the Houston Galleria Mall. The American Cowboy Museum, the Contemporary Arts Museum and the Dunham Bible Museum are among the countless museums to be found within city limits and in the Museum District. A leader in the green movement as the Energy Capital of the World, enjoy exploring Houston's vibrant farmers markets for a nice change of pace.
