Texas ranks number one as a road trip destination, according to a study by the personal finance website WalletHub. They compared all 50 states based on 32 metrics in three major categories: cost, safety, and activities. “Texas excels with its vast array of attractions and scenic byways, offering a plethora of stops like zoos, botanical gardens and amusement parks,” states Cassandra Happe, analyst and communications manager for WalletHub.
However, due to the sheer amount of things to do and see, it can be a challenge for those who wish to plan out the perfect Texas road trip. From the natural attractions to the unique historical sights — and where to stop for the best food, there’s no question that the Lone Star State has much to offer.
An Array of Natural Road Trip Wonders
Texas Highways highlights a number of natural wonders that are worth a visit throughout the Lone Star State, from the Hamilton Pool Preserve to Caddo Lake and more. Some of the best natural locations include national parks, as they can serve as the perfect places to stop and stretch your legs on a long road trip. Hiking, biking, camping, and more activities can only add to your experience, whether your plans involve a short day-long visit or a stop along your route that lasts for weeks on end. One of the most well-known national parks in the state is Big Bend, which is described as “the highlight attraction of the entire region.” The national park features an impressive 800,000-acres, and is noted to be the only park in the country that contains a complete mountain range known as the Chisos.
For those who wish to explore a national park, a hidden gem can be found via Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located in West Texas. USA Today points out that the park had fewer than 220,000 visitors in 2022, and it’s known to be one of the nation’s least-visited national parks, though this doesn’t mean the location is short of things to see and do. Without major crowds that can be found at more popular parks, a visit to Guadalupe Mountains can feel like a breath of fresh air in more ways than one. “It is literally one of a kind,” noted the park’s acting superintendent and Visitor Services manager, Theresa Moore. In regard to the park’s special characteristics, Moore explains that the Guadalupe Mountains are actually a fossilized sponge reef that’s over 260 million years old. The biodiversity of the location is another great attribute of the park — in addition to the Chihuahuan Desert, a ponderosa pine forest can also be found within the area, Moore remarks. The park is also tied to a number of Native American tribes, which make it paramount to the area’s rich history.
A Touch of Nostalgia
Those who love history and who crave a touch of nostalgia can head to any one of Texas’ drive-in movie theaters for a memorable road trip activity, though it’s crucial that you’re in the right vehicle for a comfortable experience. This is particularly important for those who wish to travel with several friends or the whole family. Minivans are a great cost-effective choice, with advantages that include comfort, space, and convenient features. Today’s top models are packed with features that can make a road trip that much more comfortable to drive long distances, such as parking-assistance sensors, blind-spot warning, backup cameras, and heated seats. Ratings and reviews are a great way to successfully determine the best minivan for your needs, as they provide first-hand insight into the newest vehicles. This is also a great way to compare and contrast different minivans, as each varies in regard to price, features, and driving experience.
The decision of which drive-in to head to can be a challenge. The New York Film Academy notes that while there were drive-ins as early as the 1910s, the first patented drive-in was officially opened on June 6th of 1933, by Richard Hollingshead in New Jersey. In Texas, there are 19 drive-in theaters across the state, according to the Texas Film Commission, though Valley’s Drive-In Theater, which opened in late 2024 in McAllen, makes 20. Drive-in theaters present a great opportunity for those who aim to add a touch of nostalgia to their road trip. Moonstruck Drive-In is another that can be found in Houston’s Fifth Ward, where viewers can snag a great view of downtown in addition to their movie. Houstonia Magazine notes that outside food is prohibited, though there is an on-site concession stand for all of your movie favorites.
History-Rich Road Trip Eats
Texas is home to a number of historical attractions, such as the U.S.S. Lexington, the Alamo, and the Fulton Mansion State Historic Site. However, where you choose to stop and eat can also inject a bit of history into a Texan road trip, as the state features a myriad of choices that have long been staples in both cuisine and culture. The Blue Bonnet Cafe, for example, opened back in 1929. While the original establishment was located on Main Street in Marble Falls, it moved in 1946 to Hwy 281, blocks from Lake Marble Falls. The award-winning and family owned restaurant boasts a colorful menu that features all-day breakfast and daily specials to options like a classic burger and Hot Steak sandwich, as well as Mexican staples like enchiladas.
The Old Spanish Trail (OST) Restaurant in Bandera is another Texan eatery steeped in history, as it’s considered to be “one of the oldest continuously operating restaurants” in the state. A Texas Highways story by Pam LeBlanc notes that the restaurant opened in 1921, and is an establishment that features a particularly unique atmosphere that has drawn in visitors from all over. In addition to celebrity visits (a list that includes Matt Damon and Robert Duvall), it’s not uncommon for locals to tie their horses outside while they eat, Texas Highways points out. Gwen Janes, who purchased the establishment in 1978, notes that the restaurant is known for breakfast and chicken-fried steaks, though the menu is expansive, and includes desserts such as coconut meringue and buttermilk pies. Though the 2022 article highlights the fact that OST was put up for sale, Janes expressed hope that the new owner would continue the restaurant’s tradition as a cowboy Western atmosphere.
Texas is the perfect destination for anyone who wishes to embark on an all-American road trip. Must-see attractions range from national parks to historic eateries and nostalgic activities, which can help create a road trip like no other.
Featured photo via anyaberkut on iStock.