You’ve probably heard the phrase, “Everything is bigger in Texas”, and that’s even true of its cities. While no single city in Texas is quite the largest in the U.S., the state still manages to have 5 of the top 12 cities with the highest population in the country.
Texas is a great destination to visit year-round. Whether you’re considering a potential move to the state or whether you’re simply looking to get away for a week, here are six of the best cities that Texas has to offer. Consider paying them a visit!
1. San Antonio
San Antonio, Texas’s second-largest city, is known for its natural beauty and rich history.
Although not surrounded by any large body of water, the San Antonio River flows through the heart of the city and is the centerpiece of the city’s Riverwalk—a market that consists of all types of stores, restaurants, and entertainment options.
Historically speaking, San Antonio is also known as being the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, and you can still visit this famous monument today.
Beyond beauty and history, however, there’s also plenty to do in San Antonio. To start, visit Market Square, home of over 100 shops and the largest Mexican market in the United States. If you’re a thrill-seeker, visit Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Splashtown Waterpark, or SeaWorld.
You might even consider getting tickets to see the NBA’s San Antonio Spurs play at the AT&T Center!
2. Houston
With roughly 2,300,000 residents, Houston is not only the largest city in Texas but also the fourth-largest city in the entire United States.
Often referred to as “Space City”, Houston is home to Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center—where astronauts have been trained, prepared, and deployed for countless NASA missions and projects. It’s here where the famous words, “Houston, we’ve had a problem” were received from Jim Lovell of the Apollo 13 crew in 1970.
Beyond space exploration, Houston’s Theater District has a constant rotation of Broadway shows and concerts for you to attend. The city also features multiple large museums, including the Houston Museum of Natural Science and the Museum of Fine Arts.
Houston natives are also passionate about their professional sports, and the city has teams in the NBA, MLB, and NFL with the Rockets, Astros, and Texans, respectively.
3. Austin
Austin is the capital city of Texas, and in a way, it embodies what the great state is all about. Its rich history is on clear display with the Texas State Capital, the LBJ Presidential Library, and the Bullock Texas State History Museum.
Natives of Austin are no strangers to scenic views, either. Traverse the Lady Bird Hike-and-Bike Trail—a path that ushers you through multiple lush green parks and around the perimeter of Lady Bird Lake itself.
You might also choose to visit Barton Springs—a natural limestone pool that spans over 1,000 feet in total length and maintains an average temperature of 68-70 degrees year-round.
Finally, Austin possesses its fair share of public parks for the whole family to enjoy. Check out the walking trails and soccer fields of Zilker Metropolitan Park or have your very own picnic at McKinney Falls State Park.
4. Dallas
Dallas is largely known for its nightlife and smoked BBQ, but its natives are also known for their appreciation of both art and nature.
Pay a visit to the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden to stroll through up to 66 acres of greenery and bright flowers. Rise 470 feet from the ground to enjoy a scenic view of the city from the top of the Reunion Tower.
But Dallas is a city that is also recognized in history, namely for being the site of the JFK assassination. Consider taking some time to reflect on this important moment in history by visiting the John F. Kennedy Memorial Plaza and the Sixth Floor Museum.
While Dallas is home to both an NHL team and an NBA team—the Stars and the Mavericks, respectively—Dallas is best known for its beloved Dallas Cowboys and their electric AT&T Stadium.
5. Fort Worth
Neighboring Dallas and rounding out the top five biggest cities in Texas is Fort Worth—a city that, while modern, has continued to stay true to its western roots over the years. When visiting Fort Worth, you can be sure that you’ll be greeted with genuine Texas hospitality.
Dive headfirst into Fort Worth’s cowboy culture by attending a rodeo show or cattle drive. Then, visit the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame, the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, or the National Multicultural Western Heritage Museum to become more acquainted with the city’s rich history and local legends.
If you’re a fan of spectacle, be sure to visit Texas Motor Speedway and witness a high-octane race on this historic NASCAR track.
Finally, wind down after an exhausting day with a peaceful walk through Fort Worth Botanic Gardens. Established back in 1934, this is Texas’s oldest major botanic garden!
6. El Paso
While El Paso is dwarfed by some of the other cities on our list, it’s still considered a major U.S. city in its own right.
As El Paso shares a border with Mexico, it possesses a very diverse demographic and culture. In fact, many of the city’s natives are fluent Spanish-speakers.
What makes El Paso particularly unique is its climate. Your plans are unlikely to be thwarted by a rainy or snowy day, as El Paso’s desert landscape typically sees over 320 days of sunshine each year. Consider visiting during a cooler month—otherwise, be sure to stock up on plenty of sunscreen!
While in El Paso, you’ll get the opportunity to enjoy a wide range of outdoor activities. Take a trip up to Scenic Drive and behold a stunning overlook of the entire city below. Choose from over 30 different hiking trails at Franklin Mountain State Park.
Last but not least, El Paso is home to multiple exhilarating rock climbing and bouldering adventures. Visit Hueco Tanks, McKelligon Canyon, or Cave Climbing for your share of adrenaline and thrills!
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