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Texas

The Texas State Capitol is one of the unique places to visit in Austin TX

Laura grew up in Texas and her family still lives there, so it’s a place we explore frequently. Full of great cities like Austin, delightful small towns like Fredericksburg, and unusual spots like Luckenbach, there’s always something new to uncover in the Lone Star State.

Quick facts

Population: 28.99 million
Size: 268,596 square miles
Capital: Austin
Major cities: Houston, San Antonio, Dallas, Austin, Fort Worth

Brief history

Before Europeans arrived, the land now known as Texas was home to three indigenous cultures. There is evidence of the Pueblo people, the Mound Builders, and people from Mesoamerica all inhabiting the area. In the early 16th century, European explorers arrived ready to stake their claim.

The amusement park Six Flags Over Texas got its name from the six flags that have flown over Texas during its modern history—Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the Confederate States of America, and the USA. Spain ruled the territory beginning in 1519, and the control lasted until the early 19th century minus the time from 1685-1690 when the French attempted a colonization effort. The Spanish are responsible for some of the state’s most notable monuments, specifically the missions of San Antonio that are recognized at UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Mexico overthrew Spanish colonial rule, taking over control of the Texas territory from 1821 to 1836 when the state won its independence. The Constitution of the Republic of Texas ensured that the government could not restrict slavery or free slaves, required free Blacks to leave the country, and prohibited Native Americans from becoming citizens.

In 1845, Texas became the 28th state in the United States. Around this time, an influx of Czech and German settlers arrived, settling the area in the central part of the state. These immigrants developed a unique culture, vestiges of which still exist through the state’s German towns and sites like gorgeously decorated churches.

The affiliation with the US lasted less than two decades, and the state seceded in 1861, officially joining the Confederate States of America. At the time, 30 percent of the population was Black, and they were predominantly enslaved. Following the Civil War, Texas rejoined the Union in 1870.

Planning a trip to Texas

Texas is the second largest state and it’s larger than many countries, including France and Germany. That means there is lots of space to explore, and there are often long distances between destinations. Driving is the easiest way to get around if you’re looking to visit several cities, and especially if small towns are on the agenda. Within the state, Southwest Airlines links major cities with short flights.

The climate and landscape vary greatly across the state. You’ll find plains, desert, prairies, piney woods, beaches, and even the mountains of Big Bend. Texas even has a major wine region in the Hill Country where the climate and soil are similar to those of the Mediterranean. Make sure to check the weather for all your destinations and pack layers, as the weather is known to change quickly.

Articles about Texas

Fountain and building in town center of Round Top, Texas

The Perfect Texas Road Trip

There are so many awesome places to see in Texas that don’t make it on most tourists’ radars—the small towns mostly known about and loved only by Texans or those with a real affinity for the Lone Star State. Here’s our perfect Central Texas road trip full of places we love.

The Luckenbach Texas General Store

The Big Magic of the Tiny Town of Luckenbach

Visiting Luckenbach, Texas, is like coming home to a place you’ve never been before. Walking through the door of this two-building town, there is a feeling that everyone is a regular, maybe even friends and family.

Vodka still at Ironroot Republic, one of the Texas distilleries

9 Great Texas Distilleries to Tour and Taste

Across Texas, craft distillers are trying their hands at everything from bourbon to brandy. Many are also opening their doors to local fans to share their process and products.

Cow under tree at LBJ State Park

It’s a Rancher’s Life at LBJ State Park

In the 1960s, Lyndon B. Johnson spent nearly one-quarter of his presidency at the Texas White House in Stonewall, Texas. Now, the house and the surrounding area have been turned into national and state parks — a combination of a working farm and group of historical sites.

Living room of cabin with couch and fireplace at Cotton Gin Village

Rustic Comfort at the Cotton Gin Village

At the Cotton Gin Village in Fredericksburg, Texas, the combination of rustic details, modern amenities, and food worth writing home about makes for a perfect getaway.