It's no surprise that one of the best things to do in Texas is eat great barbecue. There are countless places in Austin where you can get your fill of authentic Texas barbecue, but just a few are rated the greatest. The state capital allows you to experience trademark meals, including what it's best known for: smokey and succulent brisket, pig, and chicken smothered in salty and savory rubs. Whether you prefer your ribs and brisket traditional or trendy, you're sure to find a new favorite among these sizzling BBQ hot spots. Don't forget about the sides, since Austin's barbecue meals are frequently served with pinto beans, potato salad, and coleslaw, which will complement your expertly made meat platters.

Franklin Barbecue is undoubtedly Austin's most famous barbecue place (President Obama went in 2014! ), while Loro serves traditional favorites with an Asian twist. Begin your day with a barbecue breakfast taco from Valentina's Tex Mex BBQ food truck, then fill up on smokey meats from the family-run Terry Black's Barbecue or Central Texas-style barbecue from La Barbecue. This can be seen as one of the Best Things To Do In Texas that you should experience.

Location: Austin, Texas, the United States

Best time to visit: September to November or March to May

Website: austintexas.gov

Austin, Texas's capital, has a unique mix of historic sites, offbeat attractions, and outdoor spaces. The Texas State Capitol is a must-see in this vibrant city, providing as both a gorgeous piece of architecture and a venue for free and informative tours. It is, in fact, the largest capitol structure in the United States!

The Texas State Capitol serves as the state's capital and seat of government. The edifice, which is located in downtown Austin, Texas, contains the offices and chambers of the Texas Legislature as well as the Governor of Texas. Take one of the free 30-minute tours of the Texas Capitol to get a behind-the-scenes peek at its historic halls. You'll have the opportunity to tour key areas of the Capitol and learn about the historic structure, Texas history, and the legislature. There are self-guided tours available, as well as special themed excursions such as Women in Texas History and Heroes of the Texas Revolution.

Visit the Visitors Center to see fascinating displays about the history of Texas traditions. The Hero's Reward exhibit, which allows you to walk in the footsteps of Texas Revolution soldiers, is a must-see. After all that trekking, you may refuel at the Capitol Grill, located in the Capitol Extension.

Address: 1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, United States

Rating: 4.7/5.0, 3,133 Google reviews

Website: https://tspb.texas.gov/prop/tc/tc/capitol.html

Lake Travis Zipline Adventures is the most exciting destination in Austin, Texas for thrill seekers. Lake Travis Zipline Adventures is a combination of thrill-seeking adventure and family entertainment, and it is home to Texas' longest and fastest zip line. The "Adventure of a Lifetime" (as the attraction claims) includes a 3-hour guided tour and the opportunity to ride five exciting zip lines.

This spectacular sight is around 45 minutes from downtown Austin and is certainly one of the most unique things to do in Texas. It is suitable for ages 10 and above. You may zip across the beautiful canyons and take in the scenery from 200 feet above! The final zip line starts off a 20-story-high cliff and travels 12 miles across Lake Travis as the grand finale. Hiking on our nature trails between zips will provide you with spectacular views of Lake Travis.

After your ride, you'll have full access to the private lakeside property, which includes picnic places, swimming areas, hammocks, and beach sports. All necessary equipment, boat transportation, water, and a light snack are all included in your stay. Bring your own lunch and drinks.

Address: 14529 Pocohontas Trail, Volente, TX 78641, United States

Rating: 4.9/5.0, 3,704 Google reviews

Website: https://www.ziplaketravis.com/

Need to get away from the Texas heat? Swim in Hamilton Pool Nature Reserve to cool off. This ancient swimming hole in Dripping Springs, about 45 minutes from Austin, has extremely appealing blue-green water. The swimming hole's centerpiece is a 50-foot waterfall that cascades over limestone croppings from Hamilton Creek. It is open for trekking and sight-seeing but requires reservations. Hamilton Pool is a natural pool formed thousands of years ago when the dome of an underground river collapsed owing to extreme erosion.

On a hot, sunny day, the iconic Central Texas attraction is the ideal place to cool off and feel rejuvenated, especially when you can sunbathe beneath the falling water. The pool is so clear that you can see colorful fish and turtles swimming about! Many locals have brought floats and pool noodles to lounge on. Because the natural pool and creek are not chemically cleaned, water quality is frequently evaluated and swimming is occasionally prohibited.

It is part of the Balcones Canyonlands Preserve, which has over 30,000 acres of natural environment and scenic paths that lead to the Pedernales River. Keep a watch out for uncommon plant species as well as native wildlife such as golden-cheeked warblers and cliff swallows. Keep in mind that reservations are usually required if you visit Hamilton Pool Nature Reserve during peak season (May to September).

Location: Travis County, Texas, U.S

Best time to visit: May to September

Rating: 4.3/5.0, 512 Google reviews

Website: https://parks.traviscountytx.gov/parks/hamilton-pool-preserve

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is certainly one of the most distinctive things to do in Texas, offering beautiful views of its gigantic pink granite dome. Enchanted Rock is a pink granite peak located about 24 miles south of Llano, Texas, on the Llano Uplift. This natural wonder, located in Fredericksburg, has drawn people for thousands of years. Hiking, backpacking, and camping are popular hobbies, as are stargazing and birdwatching. It can be considered as one of the Best Things To Do In Texas.

Nature lovers admire the informative exhibits that provide insight into this centuries-old site and its distinctive plants and creatures, while active travelers enjoy the rock climbing opportunities. There are more than ten miles of hiking routes to choose from, with many of them being short and family-friendly. If you only have time for one hike, the short but steep Summit Trail provides postcard-worthy views of the Texas Hill Country.

The greatest time to visit is in the spring, when temperatures are comfortable and wildflowers are in bloom, but if you can endure the cold, winter has less visitors. If you visit during the summer, make a reservation in advance. If you intend to visit other Texas state parks, Texas State Park Pass is a good idea. This way, you and anybody traveling in your vehicle will get access to all 89 state parks!

Location: Fredericksburg, Texas, the United States

Best time to visit: winter

Rating: 4.5/5.0, 2,337 Tripadvisor Reviews

Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/enchanted-rock

Texas bluebonnets are not only the official flower of Texas, but they are also one of the state's most gorgeous wildflowers. While these blossoming flowers can be seen on several Texas highways, one of the greatest places to see them is on the Willow City Loop in the Texas Hill Country. Willow City Loop is a lovely 13-mile journey across the magnificent rocky Texas Hill Country environment. The renowned loop is the typical Texas wildflower exhibition, particularly recognized for blankets of lovely Texas bluebonnet and ever popular Indian paintbrush.

Take Highway 16 N for 15 minutes from downtown Fredericksburg to Llano. Follow the 13-mile journey through Willow City, a small unincorporated town with a population of roughly 100 people! Over a dozen species wildflowers blanket the landscapes, which are peppered with live oak, pecan, and mesquite trees, and are bursting with blues, reds, yellows, and whites.

While the Texas bluebonnet flowers begin blooming in March, they reach their peak in mid-to-late April and are occasionally observed in May. However, because the land around the route is privately held, stopping or parking along the way is discouraged. Instead, take in the huge flower-filled fields and postcard-worthy displays.

Location: Texas, the United States

Best time to visit: March to May

Rating: 4.5/5.0, 494 Tripadvisor reviews

Website: https://www.fredericksburgtexas-online.com/plan-your-trip/willow-city-loop/

If you enjoy wine, there's no need to fly to Florence, as the Texas Hill Country has become one of the most popular wine tourist destinations in the country. With over 9 million acres, the Texas Hill Country American Viticultural Area (AVA) is the second-largest AVA in the United States. Its climate is similar to that of Rioja, Spain, or the Southern Rhone, France, making it ideal for producing world-class wine.

Winemakers produce renowned Bordeaux varietals including as Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, and Merlot from north of San Antonio to west of Austin. In the Texas Hill Country, wine fans can choose from over 50 wineries, and yearly wine-related events include grape stomps and food and wine pairing dinners.

You may swirl, sniff, and sip your way through Central Texas' quaint wineries, sampling reds, whites, and rosés. Many Hill Country vineyards provide tasting rooms where you can share a bottle while taking in the scenery. On-site tours provide a behind-the-scenes peek at the winemaking process for anyone interested in learning more. Signor Vineyards, Duchman Winery, Grape Creek Vineyards, Solaro Estate Winery, and Pedernales Cellars are among the top wineries in the Texas Hill Country.

Location: Texas, the United States

Best time to visit: spring and the fall

Summers in Texas can be sweltering, and one of the greatest ways to combat the heat is to cool off in one of the state's glittering swimming holes. Hill Country has some of the best aquatic adventures in Texas, with options for all types of travelers, whether you want a popular destination or a hidden gem. The Texas Hill Country is a geographical region in Central and South Texas that is part of the Edwards Plateau to the southeast. The Hill Country might be regarded the border between the American Southeast and Southwest due to its location, climate, terrain, and vegetation.

Jacob's Well and Blue Hole, located in the lovely hamlet of Wimberley, are two of Texas' most popular swimming holes. Comfort's James Kiehl River Bend Park is a peaceful haven surrounded by tall cypress trees. Adrenaline seekers can even try their hand at cliff jumping off the rocky outcrops at Inks Lake State Park!

Krause Springs near Spicewood has a gorgeous grotto and twin waterfalls, as well as beautiful jewel-colored waters. Tubing the Frio River's crystal-clear waters is considered a rite of passage in the Lone Star State. And Garner State Park is one of the top sites in Texas to cross this activity off your list! Hancock Springs near Lampasas, Texas, is well-known for its therapeutic benefits and is a popular destination for health aficionados.

Location: Texas, the United States

Website: https://www.visitfredericksburgtx.com/texas-hill-country/

Colorado Bend State Park, located two hours northwest of Austin, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, with 5,300 acres of untouched wilderness and 35 miles of hiking and biking trails. It is typical of the karst features found in the Hill Country, with numerous sinkholes, caverns, and springs. The park's main attraction is the spring-fed Gorman Falls, which towers at 70 feet and spans more than 150 feet. You must be prepared for a 3-mile round-trip journey over rugged and rocky terrain, but the breathtaking views of the gushing cascade make the effort worthwhile.

Spicewood Springs' spring-fed pools are another popular feature that are ideal for cooling off. Follow the 2.2-mile Tie Slide Trail across oak, pecan, and cactus-studded landscapes to the best overlook in the park for views of the Colorado River. Other popular activities include camping and river canoeing.

If you're feeling brave, some of Colorado Bend's best vistas may be seen underground in its historic caves. Sign up for a cave tour and crawl your way through the unusual rock formations to experience the darkened natural wonders. Alternatively, you can spend a quiet day on the lake because the area has some of the best bass fishing in Central Texas. This is one of the Best Things To Do In Texas.

Address: 2236 Park Hill Dr, Bend, TX 76824, United States

Rating: 4.7/5.0, 1,736 Google reviews

Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/colorado-bend

San Antonio has several world-class attractions, but none are as well-known as the River Walk. The San Antonio River Walk is a city park and special-case pedestrian path located one level below the vehicle street in San Antonio, Texas. The River Walk, one of the top things to do in Texas and the crown gem of this famous city, is a free attraction with shaded riverbank walks ideal for strolling.

One of the most exciting things to do in Texas is to cruise the canals along the River Walk. Take a narrated ride around San Antonio's historic neighborhoods on one of Go Rio's eco-friendly electric barges. Sit back and let your guide impart professional information about the city's architecture and landmarks, such as Selena's Bridge and the Briscoe Western Art Museum.

The River Walk is 15 miles long and has enough to see and do. Enjoy a dinner at one of the riverfront restaurants, go shopping at the Shops at Rivercenter, and walk the Museum Reach section of the River Walk. Alternatively, catch a live performance at Arneson River Theatre or relax with a refreshing beer at the historic Esquire Tavern, which first opened its doors in 1933, at the end of Prohibition.

Address: 849 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States

Rating: 4.7/5.0, 31,761 Google reviews

Website: https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/

The Alamo is at the top of the list of things to do in Texas for several reasons, the most important of which is that it represents the state's rich history. The Alamo Mission, also known as the Misión San Antonio de Valero and usually referred to as the Alamo, is a historic Spanish mission and fortress compound founded in the 18th century by Roman Catholic missionaries in what is now San Antonio, Texas, United States. The Alamo, one of Texas' most visited historical sites, stands as a memorial to the 189 Texan volunteers who fought and died during a memorable 13-day siege in 1836.

View displays and memorabilia utilized by military heroes such as Davy Crockett, who died defending the Alamo. Step inside this stunning 300-year-old former Spanish mission turned fortress and learn about the Texas Revolution and the Battle of the Alamo.

This free San Antonio attraction is a family-friendly venue that hosts live history demonstrations and special events throughout the year. Sign up for a 1-hour walking tour for a behind-the-scenes look at the Alamo Church and Alamo Exhibit for a deeper dig into the attraction's history.

Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
Rating: 4.6/5.0, 49,300 Google reviews
Website: https://www.thealamo.org/

Looking for one of the most unusual things to do in Texas? Natural Bridge Caverns, a short drive from San Antonio, is the world's largest natural underground cave system! The name is taken from the 60-foot natural limestone slab bridge that spans the amphitheater setting of the cavern's entrance. When a sinkhole collapsed beneath it, the span became suspended. It's on the National Register of Historic Places and a State Historical Site, with bucket-list-worthy exploits at every turn.

At Natural Bridge Caverns, you may choose from a variety of fascinating experiences, including the renowned Discovery Tour, which takes you 18 feet below earth. It has cutting-edge lighting that illuminates the ancient rock formations such as stalagmites, stalactites, flowstones, chandeliers, and soda straws. Sign up for the Hidden Passages Tour to witness some of the most unique and delicate formations.

Kids will enjoy the old-fashioned excitement at the Mining Company, where they can mine and pan for diamonds, fossils, and other treasures. Alternatively, choose an adventure in the skies with the Twisted Trails Zip Rails and Ropes Course, or get down and dirty with the Adventure Tour, which includes climbing, hiking, and exploring old tunnels. It can be seen as one of the Best Things To Do In Texas that you should try.

Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, United States

Rating: 4.7/5.0, 11,775 Google reviews

Website: https://naturalbridgecaverns.com/

The Dallas Museum of Art is an art museum in downtown Dallas, Texas, along the Woodall Rodgers Freeway between St. Paul and Harwood. The museum relocated from its old location in Fair Park to the Arts District in the 1970s. The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the country's largest art museums. It's one of the top things to do in Texas for art lovers, with over 25,000 works spanning over 5,000 years. The best part is that it is entirely free to visit.

One of the most important collections of modern and contemporary art in the United States is housed in the museum's increasing collection. If you're looking for artwork from the ancient Americas, Africa, and South Asia, as well as significant European and American paintings, sculptures, and decorative arts, The Dallas Museum of Art is the place to be.

Don't miss Jackson Pollock's oil and canvas Portrait and a Dream or Vincent van Gogh's Sheaves of Wheat. Are you a history buff? Look for the Greek Eros earrings from the late 14th century BC and the Egyptian rock crystal ewer from the late 10th-11th centuries. Every time you visit this dynamic museum, you will see something new, as new pieces are constantly being added and galleries are constantly changing. In addition, it hosts a variety of educational activities, seminars, concerts, and literary events throughout the year.

Address: 1717 N Harwood St, Dallas, TX 75201, United States

Rating: 4.7/5.0, 9,309 Google reviews

Website: https://dma.org/

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a beautiful green environment nestled on the shores of White Rock Lake that serves as an oasis among the city's towering skyscrapers. This year-round natural attraction, just minutes from downtown, boasts 66 acres of flower-filled gardens. It was built in 1984 and has continually showcased, preserved, and educated visitors on Texas' natural life and history. It's a popular tourist destination for both nature and history enthusiasts. The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden features 16 gardens, including a children's garden with over 150 engaging and instructive activities, as well as two historical structures.

This flower wonderland is ideal for a day trip, with surprises around every corner. Wander through A Woman's Garden to see the numerous sculptures, admire the seasonal flowers and plants in the Jonsson Color Garden, or let the youngsters connect with nature in the Rory Meyers Children's Adventure Garden. If you get hungry, you can try seasonal produce and meals grown locally in the kitchen at A Tasteful Place.

You can also attend seasonal festivals, art events, and educational activities throughout the year if you plan your vacation correctly. Seasons are key here, as Dallas Arboretum come alive in the spring, particularly the Color Garden with its 2,000 azalea species. Spring is also known for its vivid displays of daffodils, tulips, and tapioca plants, while autumn is known for its vibrantly colored chrysanthemums.

Address: 8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218, United States
Rating: 4.7/5.0, 18,727 Google reviews
Website: https://www.dallasarboretum.org/

Caddo Lake State Park, the state's only natural lake and an East Texas treasure, is a terrific location for nature-loving families. Caddo Lake State Park is a state park in the piney woods ecoregion of eastern Texas that operates as a wildlife management area. Caddo Lake is the lake that the state park encompasses and is one of only a few of natural lakes in Texas. Large cypress trees draped in Spanish moss overlook Caddo Lake's network of bayous, sloughs, and ponds, providing the ideal setting for a day out in nature.

While you may enjoy fishing, hiking, and camping in this magnificent park, kayaking along the natural rivers is one of the greatest ways to see its natural splendor. Rent a canoe or kayak, or bring your own, and spend the afternoon exploring the twists and turns of Caddo Lake. You'll like the tranquil environment and animal viewing chances! There are also guided boat cruises available.

You can also walk around the Caddo Lake area. The neighboring Caddo Forest Trail, with its vibrant display of fall leaves, is especially lovely in September. Take a stroll down Big Cypress Bayou and pause to watch the sunset over Saw Mill Pond. If you're not quite ready to depart, have a look at the park's campgrounds and historic cabins. This is one of the Best Things To Do In Texas.

Address: 245 Park Rd 2, Karnack, TX 75661, United States
Rating: 4.7/5.0, 1,303 Google reviews
Website: https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/caddo-lake