Texas – A Comprehensive Guide
Where is Texas located?
Texas is a state in the southern United States and the second-largest state in the country, both in area and population. It is bordered by Oklahoma to the north, Louisiana and Arkansas to the east, Mexico and the Gulf of Mexico to the south, and New Mexico to the west. Texas's location makes it a hub for both American and international trade. Houston is the largest city, but Austin is the capital and is known for its creative scene and technology industry.
Map of Texas
Texas covers an area of approximately 695.662 square kilometers, making the state the size of France. Desert areas dominate West Texas, while the east coast borders the Gulf of Mexico and has lusher, more agricultural regions.
15 Important Places to Visit in Texas (Nature and Culture)
Texas offers both natural wonders and cultural attractions. Here are 15 must-see destinations:
- Big bend national park
The park is located on the border with Mexico and is known for its impressive desert landscape and mountainous areas. - Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Peak is Texas' highest point and a dream location for hikers. - San Antonio River Walk
A charming promenade filled with shops and restaurants, and close to the Alamo. - The Alamo
An important part of Texas history, where a decisive battle took place during the Texas War for Independence. - Palo Duro Canyon State Park
“Texas' Grand Canyon” with fantastic scenery for hiking and camping. - NASA's Johnson Space Center
World famous for space exploration, located in Houston. - Dallas Museum of Art
One of the country's largest art museums with works from all over the world. - Texas State Capitol
An impressive government building in Austin that is larger than the US Capitol. - Padre island national seashore
This pristine coastline offers magnificent scenery and bird watching. - Houston Museum District
The area is home to a number of museums, such as the Museum of Fine Arts and the Houston Museum of Natural Science. - South Congress Avenue (Austin)
An iconic street known for its bohemian vibe, vintage shops and live music. - Caddo Lake
Texas' only natural freshwater lake, surrounded by cypress forest. - Fort Worth Stockyards
A historic area where you can experience Texas' cowboy culture through rodeos and cattle drives. - Houston Zoo
One of the most visited zoos in the United States, with a wide variety of animals. - Fredericksburg Wine Road 290
A scenic route with wineries and wine experiences in the Texas Hill Country.
Is Texas a rich state?
Yes, Texas is one of the richest states in the United States. If Texas were an independent nation, it would be the world's 9th largest economy. The state is best known for its oil industry, but technology and agriculture also play a big role. In addition, large cities like Austin, Houston, and Dallas have seen tremendous growth thanks to tech giants like Tesla, Google, and Apple establishing themselves here.
Number of inhabitants
Texas has a population of about 30 million people (2024), making it the second most populous state in the United States. The population is growing rapidly due to high immigration and a solid birth rate.
Where should you live? (5-10 suggestions)
- The Driskill Hotel (Austin)
A historic hotel with Victorian architecture. - Emma Hotel (Saint Anthony)
A former brewery building converted into a stylish boutique hotel. - JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa
Perfect for families with golf courses and water parks. - La Cantera Resort & Spa (Saint Anthony)
Luxury resort overlooking the Texas Hill Country. - Mokara Hotel & Spa (Saint Anthony)
Luxury hotel on the San Antonio River Walk. - The Houstonian Hotel, Club & Spa (Houston)
Exclusive hotel surrounded by gardens in Houston. - The Joule Hotel (Dallas)
Elegant boutique hotel in the heart of Dallas. - The Westin Dallas Downtown
Modern hotel with fantastic views. - The Statler Hotel (Dallas)
Retro glamour and central location. - Fairmont Austin
Modern luxury hotel with a rooftop pool.
Rodeo in Texas
Rodeo is a central part of Texas culture, where cowboy traditions and rodeo competitions live on. Here are some of the best rodeo events in Texas:
- Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo
The largest rodeo in the world, with cattle ranching, bullfighting and live music. - Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo
One of the oldest rodeos in Texas, celebrating cowboy culture. - San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
Rodeo mixed with agricultural exhibitions and concerts. - Austin Rodeo
A combination of rodeo and music, held in March.
Civil War Museums in Texas
Although Texas was not a major battlefield during the Civil War, the state played an important role in the conflict. Here are some of the museums and historical sites dedicated to the Civil War:
- Texas Civil War Museum (Fort Worth)
The largest Civil War museum west of the Mississippi, featuring uniforms, weapons, and artifacts. - Galveston and the Juneteenth Story
Galveston is known as the place where news of the end of slavery reached Texas, leading to the Juneteenth celebration. - Sabine Pass Battleground State Historic Site
Commemorates an important battle during the Civil War. - Confederate Reunion Grounds State Historic Site (Mexico)
A historic site where Confederate veterans met after the war.
Typical food in Texas
Texas food culture is a fusion of American, Mexican, and cowboy heritage. Here are some iconic dishes:
- Texas BBQ – Slow smoked meat, especially brisket.
- Tex-Mex – A combination of Mexican and Texan cuisine.
- Chicken Fried Steak – Breaded and fried steak.
- Chili – Texas chili is traditionally made without beans.
- Kolaches – Sweet or savory filled buns, a Czech influence.
- Breakfast Tacos – Filled with egg, bacon, chorizo and cheese.
Good restaurants from cheap to expensive
- Franklin Barbecue (Austin)
World famous for brisket. (Cheap to mid-priced) - Pappadeaux Seafood Kitchen (Houston)
Cajun-inspired seafood. (Mid-range price) - My Land Coffee and Bakery (Saint Anthony)
Classic Tex-Mex with an authentic atmosphere. (Cheap to medium price) - The Capital Grille (Houston/Dallas)
Exclusive steakhouse. (Expensive) - uchi (Austin)
Modern Japanese cuisine and sushi. (Expensive)
Price level in Texas
Texas has a relatively low cost of living compared to many other states. A meal can cost between $10 and $30 at a regular restaurant, while fine dining can cost $50-100 per person. Hotels range in price from $80-150 per night for mid-range hotels and over $250 for luxury hotels.
🎬 Watch the journey on film — 365 ways to travel the world Watch our film →
