Javascript is not enabled.

Javascript must be enabled to use this site. Please enable Javascript in your browser and try again.

Skip to content
Content starts here
CLOSE ×

Search

BRANDAMP
by AARP
Brought to you by
Leaving AARP.org Website

You are now leaving AARP.org and going to a website that is not operated by AARP. A different privacy policy and terms of service will apply.

3 Texas Itineraries You’ll Want To Try This Summer

A trip unique to you awaits!


spinner image A couple riding bikes in a desert setting
Photo credit: Getty Images


Summer is on its way. Wondering where to go this year? Here’s an idea – Texas! From breathtaking skylines to some of the most dynamic cultural, culinary, and recreational opportunities, the Lone Star State truly has it all. So, fire up your imagination, then check out these three vacation possibilities.

Whatever you love to do, Texas has a trip that’ll satisfy. Read on to find the ideal itinerary for you – whether you dream of good BBQ, love country music, or prefer wide open skies.

spinner image two people sitting at a table full of brisket, chicken, sausage a sandwich and several side dishes
Photo credit: Travel Texas

1. For the Foodies. Of course, Texas is known for delicious BBQ, so how about a road trip to hit up some of the region’s best-known joints? Sample all the slow-smoked brisket, ribs, chicken, and sausage you can eat. You’ll find delectable examples all over the state.

BBQ, check. Tex-Mex, yum. But did you know that Texas has gained quite a reputation for its craft beers and wineries? Texas is the fifth largest wine-producing state, with 400-plus wineries, and there are also more than 80 breweries. Head to Saint Arnold Brewing Company in Houston, Lakewood Growler in Dallas, or San Antonio’s Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling. Or explore the more than 100 wineries in the Hill Country alone.

spinner image A singer in a cowboy hat performing for an audience
Photo credit: Travel Texas

2. For the Music Buffs. As the Live Music Capital of the World, Austin is a must-visit for music lovers. Fans pour into the city for its two large-scale music festivals – Austin City Limits and South by Southwest. Catch favorite big-name headliners as well as up-and-coming performers. Excellent tunes are also yours for the listening year-round in the city’s many venues and live shows. Check out The Continental Club, Mohawk, or the Historic Scoot Inn, originally built as a saloon in 1871.

Ready to hit the dance floor? Texas can oblige! Pull on those cowboy boots and two-step over to Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in the state, or head to Luckenbach Dance Hall in Fredericksburg. Elvis Presley and Willie Nelson both played at John T. Floore Country Store, a beloved dance hall near San Antonio. And Billy Bob’s Texas in Fort Worth is The World’s Largest Honky Tonk with 100,000 square feet of dancing room.

3. For the Outdoor Adventurers. Texas is also big on natural beauty. Go rafting or hiking in breathtaking Big Bend National Park. Wander through the gardens, natural habitats, and arboretum at the Ladybird Johnson Wildflower Center. With a vision to help restore the state’s native plants, the center was founded by the former First Lady.

Slide down sand dunes at Monahans Sandhills State Park in West Texas. Scale cliffs at Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site, a world-famous rock-climbing destination. And when you’re done with all that (phew!), cool off in one of many Texas swimming holes or head to the beach!

There are so many vacation possibilities when it comes to Texas. So dream up the one that suits you best. Eat amazing food, wear out your dancing shoes, splash in the waves…the fun to-dos are endless. Travel Texas is here to help with the planning. Whether you’re traveling solo, with friends, or with your family, we can make sure you check off all the boxes. Summer, here you come.

Click here to start planning your trip and discover for yourself what’s possible in Texas.

Discover AARP Members Only Access

Join AARP to Continue

Already a Member?