For Stunning Cities and Natural Attractions, Head to the Lone Star State izy October 3, 2017 Travel Blog There is one thing that no one can deny about Texas—it’s big! The second largest state by area (after Alaska) and also by population (after California), it has some of the biggest cities (Houston is the fourth largest in the USA) and some of the greatest natural wonders. For a family vacation that offers a bit of everything, only bigger, give a thought to the Lone Star State. Places to Stay Like everything about Texas, the hotels come with extra pizzazz. You can opt for old-European style comfort, experience the luxury of sporting complexes and spas, or pamper your inner cowboy with Wild West hospitality. The big cities all boast excellent facilities for families, like the Marriott SpringHill Suites in Dallas. The Texas Gulf coast has some amazing beaches. Coastal communities were badly affected by Hurricane Harvey in August 2017, but you can be sure that with the Texan can-do spirit they will be getting back on their feet quickly and making every effort to attract visitors very soon. Things to Do There is no shortage of attractions if you are staying in one of the major cities. If theme parks are an essential ingredient of your family vacation, you will find some of the biggest and best in Texas. From San Antonio’s SeaWorld to Arlington’s Six Flags Over Texas near Dallas, you are guaranteed some of the best rides you will find anywhere. You may not associate Texas with museums, but you will find some amazing exhibitions where even your hard-to-please teen will get absorbed. Explore the Pacific War in Fredericksburg or the Space Center in Houston. Things to See Texas is not just about human ambition; it is also about nature at its most spectacular. Palo Duro Canyon is the “Grand Canyon of Texas.” While on a smaller scale than its more famous big brother, it is still big enough to take the breath away, and boasts excellent hiking and camping away from the crowds. Padre Island National Seashore is a vast undeveloped stretch of barrier island east of Corpus Christi. A great wilderness location for camping, surfing, and bird watching, it even has a turtle hatchery. Though not the biggest in the USA, Texas’ cave systems are still impressive. Natural Bridge Caverns are a wonderland, while Longhorn Caverns and Hueco Tanks provide a tangible link with the Native Americans who lived there long ago. If you want a link with even further back, you could visit Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose. As well as meeting model dinosaurs, you will follow genuine dinosaur tracks millions of years old. Something for Everyone Your first visit to Texas will probably be followed by more. There is so much to see and do in this big state—you will always come across experiences and sights that you will want to come back for. Whether for a solo explorer or a family seeking shared memories, Texas has much to offer. Leave a Reply Cancel ReplyYour email address will not be published.CommentName* Email* Website Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment. Δ