Spread out with borders touching New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana, as well as an international border alongside 4 Mexican states, Texas is the second largest and second most populous state in the USA. It is a major oil producer, and also has more farms and acreage than any other US state.
Texas has a diverse and distinctive culture, a fascinating history and a varied economy. Despite joining the Union in 1845, the state is renowned for its independent spirit and unique customs.
Fun Facts
- There is a town in Texas called Ding Dong. In 1990, the population was only 22 people.
- The King Ranch in Texas is bigger than the state of Rhode Island.
- The state was classed as an independent nation from 1836 until 1845, and is the only member to have entered the United States by treaty rather than.
- territorial annexation
- The state has a number of unusual laws, an example being that it is illegal to take more than three sips of beer while standing. It is also illegal to sell one’s eye,
- and to milk another man’s cow. In Galveston, Texas, it is prohibited to allow a camel to run loose on the beach. The word “Texas” comes from the Hasinai Indian word for “allies” or “friends”. Despite this, the Hasinai Indians and most of the other Native American tribes in Texas were totally destroyed.
Top things to do in Texas
1. Tour the Houston Space Center. This world-famous scientific site offers visitors the chance to learn more about space and NASA (National Aeronautics and Space Administration). The ‘Feel of Space’ exhibit will be of particular interest to those who wonder what it would be like to be in outer space.
2. Attend a Texan Rodeo. The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo is a 20-day event, during which huge numbers of spectators flock to the Reliant Stadium to witness the excitement. In 2013 the festival attendance reached a record high of 2.5 million and required over 28,000 volunteers.
3. See the Texas State Capitol building in Austin. Completed in 1888, this architectural marvel is the fourth building to house the government of Texas. Featuring Italian Renaissance Revival-style architecture in pink granite, the Capitol is truly a wonder to behold.
4. Take part in the Texas State Fair. The State Fair is an annual festival that has been held in Dallas since 1886. It begins on the last Friday of September, and continues for a total of 24 days.
5. Enjoy a horseback ride through the Palo Duro Canyon. As the second largest canyon in the USA, this is truly one of nature’s remarkable wonders. Visitors will have the opportunity to tour the canyon via Jeep or on horseback, and discover all of its hidden wonders.
6. Visit the ‘Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens’. One of the largest flower displays in North America, this renowned spectacle provides 66 acres of picturesque floral arrangements all year long.
7. See the ‘Alamo’ in San Antonio. Regarded as one of the most important historical sites within the USA, it is remembered as the site of the Battle of the Alamo. Visitors can browse the fascinating museum aisles, which offer artifacts dating back over 300 years.
8. Visit the Galveston beaches, and see the dolphins. Though Texas is not well-known for the activity, visitors to the Texan shores should make the most of the opportunity to take a boat trip and connect with the free dolphins near the coast.
Accommodation in Texas
When staying in this remarkable state, whether moving around or remaining in one spot, it’s advisable to find comfortable accommodation to make your vacation one to remember. Renting cottages, apartments or simply a room in a bed and breakfast is relatively easy, with tourism being a prominent feature within the state.
Stay in a Texan country cottage, and you will have the opportunity to awake to the beautiful landscapes, untainted by the imprints of mainstream tourism. Alternatively, visitors can find refuge in the vibrant and exciting cities, such as Austin, Houston and El Paso. Why not opt for a luxury apartment rental, in the cultural epicenter of one of these vibrant destinations?
If travelling alone or going on a road trip, a bed and breakfast will always be a great option. Staying with locals, you’ll not only get a real taste of the community atmosphere, you’ll also have friendly hosts offering a wealth of advice regarding where to go and what to do.
Getting Around
Arriving is unlikely to be a problem, given that Texas has more airports than any other state in the country. Rental cars are easy to obtain at most of the airports, and the state has an extensive road network despite its size - which will make it easy for you to reach your apartment rental or cottage. Intercity bus travel comes mainly in the form of the Greyhound and Megabus, and is easy to access.