Are you planning a trip to Texas but want to go beyond the usual tourist spots? We get you. With fewer tourists, visiting the Lone Star State will be much more relaxed and genuine.
In this article, you will find the 7 most underrated places to visit in Texas in 2024 that will help you prepare your itinerary and get the most out of your journey.
Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo
If you love art, you gotta stop at Cadillac Ranch. This outdoor installation is set along Interstate 40 and features a line of vibrant Cadillacs buried nose-first in the ground.
Do you wonder why the cars are so colorful? They’re painted by the visitors, and you can unleash your creativity too. Once the thick layer of the paint peels off, they make unique souvenirs out of it, which you can get in the gift shop.
Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern
Houston is best known as a booming industrial hub. Yet, it’s home to many architectonic gems. One of them is Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern – a 1926 drinking water reservoir that has been transformed into a fascinating public space.
This unique place often hosts contemporary art installations and exhibits. You can also take a guided tour and learn about the history of the Cistern and even disconnect during a healing meditation. After your visit, you can enjoy a walk and a cup of coffee at Buffalo Bayou Park with views of the city skyline.
San José Island
If you’re searching for the ultimate beach getaway without the excessive crowds, look no further. San José Island is located just a short ferry ride from Port Aransas, Corpus Christi Area, and boasts miles of pristine beaches in a tranquil setting.
The island is home to a variety of bird species, including herons and pelicans. Apart from birding, you can enjoy fishing, hiking, taking photos, and beachcombing – some unique seashells can be found there, such as shark eyes or angel wings.
Fort Worth Water Gardens
Another underrated urban place that has made it to our list is Fort Worth Water Gardens. This distinctive park is located in the downtown of Fort Worth, Dallas. Combining modernist architecture with natural elements, it creates a cooling oasis to relax.
The gardens feature three different water pools – Active Pool, Quiet Pool, and Aerating Pool – each of which offers a different experience and backdrop for your photos. What’s more, there is no entrance fee – perfect for those traveling on a budget.
The Dallas Rock Quarry
We’re gonna stay in Dallas for a while. Except for the usual urban activities, it’s also a place for adventures. Yes, that’s right – you can get your heart pumping right in the middle of the city center.
The Dallas Rock Quarry boasts dramatic rock formations and stunningly clear waters. That makes it a popular spot for outdoor lovers and photography enthusiasts. The downside? It’s a private property. So even though the blue water is so inviting, swimming and cliff jumping sadly aren’t allowed.
Guadalupe Mountains National Park
While there are over 80 amazing state parks in Texas, one of the most astonishing ones – the Guadalupe Mountains National Park – is often overseen and waiting for travelers like you to get well-deserved attention.
Full of diverse landscapes, canyons, caves, Permian fossil reefs, and viewpoints, it definitely has something to offer. There are also miles of fantastic hiking trails and camping opportunities if you’re backpacking.
Thanks to its off-the-beaten-path character, you can be sure it’s never too busy and you will find the peace you’re looking for.
The Blue Lagoon, Huntsville
Nestled in the serene landscapes of Huntsville, the Blue Lagoon is a favorite destination among divers and nature enthusiasts. Its azure waters are ideal for a refreshing dip or just to laze around in the shade of the trees. If you feel like staying overnight, there is a camping area for both tents and RVs with tables and grills.
The Blue Lagoon is privately owned by a scuba diving school, so you need to pay a small fee to enter it. But thanks to this, the area is clean and never too busy. On top of that, it’s only about an hour from Houston – perfect for a day trip.