Must-see attractions in Texas

  • Peoples St T-Head

    Corpus Christi

    The busy fleet of shipping boats that dock here, along with the various restaurants and activities that have set up shop on the jetty, make this the most…

  • Falcon State Park

    Rio Grande Valley

    The 500-acre Falcon State Park, 3 miles west of US 83 off FM 2098, lines the US side of the lake. The land is mostly covered by cacti and shrubs, but the…

  • Guadalupe Street City Park

    Hill Country

    Take a refreshing swim in the river at this spot, on the road behind the Inn of the Hills Resort. The water here is deep and not recommended for children…

  • Kerr Arts & Cultural Center

    Hill Country

    Step inside to catch the pulse of the Hill Country art scene. Located in the old post office, it frequently changes exhibits, which could include anything…

  • Ashton Villa

    Galveston

    The Galveston Island Visitors Center occupies most of the ground floor of this 1858 Italianate villa, while the remainder is reserved for private events.

  • Laredo Center for the Arts

    Rio Grande Valley

    Rotating collections featuring work from local artists young and old can be hit or miss, but it's worth stopping in just for a look at the 1884 'El…

  • Russell-Cocke House

    Rio Grande Valley

    An 1877 Victorian house that shows the wealth of the local traders. Like many downtown buildings, it has an interesting historical marker, but the…

  • Selena Memorial & Statue

    Corpus Christi

    The life-sized statue of late Tejano singer Selena Quintanilla-Perez (1971–95) still draws an estimated 30,000 well-wishers every year more than two…

  • VW Slug Bug Ranch

    Panhandle Plains

    In response to Cadillac Ranch, five stripped down VW bugs have sprouted 18 miles east of Amarillo at an abandoned gas station.

  • Creation Evidence Museum

    Dallas & the Panhandle Plains

    Aims to dispel evolutionary theories as displayed at all the local dinosaur sites and promote the many unique theories of its founder. There's a replica…

  • Dallas World Aquarium

    Dallas

    The flora and fauna of 14 countries come alive here with animal life (including birds, reptiles and mammals) from both the rainforest and the reef.

  • Immaculate Conception Cathedral

    Rio Grande Valley

    An 1859 Gothic Revival example of the artistry of local brick masons, this was the first Texas seminary of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate.

  • Isla Blanca County Park

    Gulf Coast & South Texas

    Just south of the causeway, this county park is the most popular beach on SPI thanks to various concessions and facilities.

  • Fannin Battleground State Historic Site

    Coastal Plains

    On March 20, 1836, Col James W Fannin fought Spanish forces here at the Battle of Coleto Creek. The men were overwhelmed and surrendered. One week later…

  • Pleasure Pier

    Galveston

    Sixteen rides, two roller coasters, carnival games, and souvenir and snack kiosks: Landry's restaurant group packs a lot into its post-Ike redo of…

  • National Butterfly Center

    Rio Grande Valley

    Who isn't enchanted by butterflies? This park is both a learning center and a sanctuary for butterflies and endangered plants. More than 300 species of…

  • Schreiner Mansion

    Hill Country

    As you explore downtown, check out the opulent former residence of Charles Schreiner, the man who built half the town. The exterior stonework is…

  • Lighthouse Lakes Park

    Corpus Christi Area

    This otherwise unremarkable city park is the most accessible put-in and take-out point for the Lighthouse Lakes Paddling Trail.

  • Lawrence St T-Head

    Corpus Christi

    Home to a view, a few chain restaurants and the luckless Niña Ship Replica.

  • L Head

    Corpus Christi

    This is the least exciting of the three main piers for visitors, but the views back towards downtown are nice.

  • V Fernandez Complex

    Rio Grande Valley

    The old trade links to New Orleans are clearly visible in this dilapidated 1877 building.