Texas is one colossal state that offers endless possibilities to any road trip enthusiast. With sun-kissed beaches, vast expanses of deserts, beardless urban centers, and tranquil countryside routes, Texas is an adventure waiting for every kind of traveler. From natural wonders and cultural landmarks to mouth-watering cuisine, the Lone Star State has it all. In this article, we look at some of the best road trip destinations and provide several helpful tips for making such a journey enjoyable and safe.
Texas Road Trip Must-Sees
While there are plenty of noteworthy landmarks around Texas, here are a few of our favorites.
Hill Country: Wildflowers, Wineries, and Quaint Towns
The Texas Hill Country is a feast for the senses, from an explosion of colorful wildflowers throughout spring to renowned wineries and quaint towns like Fredericksburg and Wimberley. Take scenic drives, followed by wine tastings, and absorb the region’s rustic beauty. Stop into Luckenbach for a taste of Texas music history or explore Enchanted Rock, a large pink granite dome great for hiking and stargazing.
Big Bend National Park: Incredible Natural Beauty in a Remote Wilderness
The desert landscapes, rugged mountains, and twisting Rio Grande make Big Bend National Park one of the most stunning parts of West Texas. From relentlessly long hikes to camping and photography, one can’t get enough of the park. Take advantage of the Santa Elena Canyon Trail or a relaxing soak in the natural hot springs. This remote area is perfect for those searching for solitude and a closer connection to nature.
Austin to San Antonio: A Culture and Culinary Corridor
This ultra-classic road trip route connects Texas’s most vibrant cities: Austin and San Antonio. Take advantage of its world-class live music scene, wacky street art, and food trucks. Driving south to San Antonio, stop for local barbecue and historical landmarks like the Alamo. When you arrive, take a leisurely walk along the River Walk or visit the UNESCO World Heritage site called the Missions National Historical Park.
The Gulf Coast: Sun, Sand, and Small-Town Charm
Soft-sand beaches, succulent seafood, and a generally laid-back atmosphere make a great combination on the Gulf Coast of Texas. Check out the Texas State Aquarium or the museum aboard the USS Lexington in Corpus Christi. Galveston’s Strand District is full of historic charm. Still, if you’re looking for some thrills, Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier amusement park has them in spades. Catch the waves or enjoy a seafood extravaganza. The Gulf Coast is an absolute must-see for any lover of the coast.
Palo Duro Canyon: Don’t be fooled by the name Grand Canyon of Texas
Palo Duro Canyon Located in the Texas Panhandle, Palo Duro is the second-largest canyon in the country. It boasts vibrant red rock formations and is popular with hikers, horseback riders, and campers alike. If you’re there in the summer, be sure to catch the outdoor musical Texas played out against the dramatic backdrop of the canyon.
Dallas-Fort Worth Loop: City Lights and Local Flavor
A robust mix of culture, history, and Texas hospitality is alive in the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex. Spend time browsing the Arts District or the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza in Dallas. Meanwhile, Fort Worth is all about cowboy culture, oozing out of its Stockyards National Historic District. Be sure to sample authentic Texas-style BBQ, shop all the local boutiques, and breathe in the energetic vibe of this dynamic region.
Safety Tips for a Road Trip
Before any kind of trip, it is important to plan and prepare in advance. Here are some tips to get you started.
Plan Your Route
Texas is huge, and the long open roads are thrilling and tiring. Plan your route in advance, especially if you’re going into remote areas with spotty cell reception. You can download maps and locate all rest stops, filling stations, and emergency services.
Car Maintenance
Before you leave, ensure your car is ready for the road. Check your tire pressure, your oil, and your spare tire. Texas highways often have long stretches without service stations, and preparation is critical to not being stranded.
Be Weather-Ready
The weather could be more consistent in Texas. Summers are guaranteed to be hot, while spring and fall have plenty of thunderstorms. Pack sunscreen and rain gear accordingly, and layer those clothes for changing conditions.
Stay Alert and Take Breaks
Texas highways are sometimes long and tedious. These kinds of roads carry an excellent risk for driver fatigue. Schedule regular breaks to stretch, grab a snack, and recharge. If traveling with others, consider driver rotation so everyone will stay alert.
Navigating Texas Roads: Laws and Etiquette
Speed limits in Texas are among the highest in the nation. On some headings, you can legally drive up to 85 mph. That being said, the speed limits are all over the map, ranging from as low as 50-55 mph in residential areas or school zones; be sure to keep your eye out for signs and conform to the local conditions.
Hands-Free Laws
Texas enacted hands-free laws for using a mobile device while driving. Use Bluetooth or other hands-free options to stay safely connected.
Watch for Wildlife
Many of Texas’ country roads are populated by wildlife, especially in the early morning and dusk. Drive with caution through marked wildlife crossing areas to avoid animal-related accidents.
Handling Accidents
Even the most well-planned trips can encounter unexpected challenges, such as accidents. Having a plan in place to address such situations is crucial. If an accident occurs, seeking local legal advice can make a significant difference. In Texas, for example, state-specific laws may affect how accidents are handled. Consulting with a lawyer who is experienced in Texas law ensures that your rights are protected and that you understand the legal nuances that may apply to your situation.
Essentials to Pack for Your Texas Thru Road Trip
Pack roadside safety tools, jumper cables, first-aid kits, and flashlights. A spare tire and the tool kit needed to change it are necessary for any safe journey.
Weather-Appropriate Gear
Be prepared for Texas’s variable climate with sunscreen, hats, light layers, and rain gear. If visiting in the summer, bring extra water to stay adequately hydrated in the heat.
Navigation Tools As handy as GPS applications are, something beats a physical map when on the road in areas where cell service could be better. It’s also always a good idea to download maps offline in an emergency or print them out for easier reference.
Food and Water Supplies
Bring plenty of snacks, water, and non-perishable foods, especially if you plan on longer routes with sparser amenities.
Conclusion
Your Texas adventure awaits – from the tranquil beauty of Hill Country to the dramatic views of Big Bend and the lively energy of Austin and San Antonio, Texas has something for every kind of traveler to get excited about. The memories will be worth it: plan, stay safe, and enjoy the ride. Get packed, fill it up, and get ready for those wide-open roads of the Lone Star State!
