From the Gulf Coast to the High Plains, see more of the Lone Star State with these historic road trips. This curated selection can help any traveler check out regional highlights and iconic destinations.

Aerial of the Fulton Mansion

South Texas Coastal Bend

The southern portion of the Texas Gulf coast—roughly 100 miles of shoreline between Rockport and South Padre Island—offers travelers a range of heritage tourism opportunities.

Exterior of the African American Museum Dallas

African American History Sites in Dallas

Many locations across Dallas share and preserve the community’s undertold Black history and activism, including churches, schools, and museums.

San Fernando Cathedral in San Antonio

San Antonio

When San Antonio visitors venture beyond the River Walk area, they find a remarkable range of heritage tourism sites in a fascinating city that’s downright ancient by Texas standards.

National Museum of the Pacific War

Fredericksburg to Johnson City

History and breathtaking natural scenery make this part of the Texas Hill Country a perfect cultural destination.

Nacogdoches Main Street

Nacogdoches and San Augustine

Known as the “Oldest Town in Texas,” Nacogdoches takes immense pride in its history.

Front of main house at Casa Navarro

Hispanic Heritage Sites in San Antonio

Much of the food, entertainment, and celebrations Texans enjoy are part of its Hispanic heritage. San Antonio is home to many Mexican American cultural attractions, making it the perfect destination to experience Hispanic culture. 

Cadillac Ranch outside of Amarillo, TX

Amarillo and Canyon

Amarillo’s heritage contains a surprisingly eclectic mix of cultural influences, from Native American leaders to legendary ranchers to the Americana of Route 66.

Front of main house

Denison to Clarksville

Settled by Native Americans, conquered by Spaniards, then included as part of Mexico, this region is rich with history and culture. This part of North Texas was also home to several legendary Texans, including Dwight D. Eisenhower, Sam Rayburn, and Sam Bell Maxey.

Exterior of Landmark Inn

German Historical Sites in the Hill Country Region

German immigrants initially sought sanctuary in Texas from political and religious persecution. Many settled in the Hill Country, where they brought classical and opera music, breweries, biergartens, and their language.

Visitors outside the hotel at Villa de Austin at San Felipe de Austin

Eight State Historic Sites to Experience the Republic of Texas Era

Step back in time and experience the period of the Texas Republic in person or virtually at one of these Texas Historical Commission state historic sites.

Hamblin Drive overlook and picnic area in the Plains Trail Region

Top Picnic Spots with Texas History

Grab a picnic basket and go off the beaten path to explore these scenic spots across the state with unique stories.

Quanah Parker Arrow at the Goodnight Ranch State Historic Site

Exploring the Quanah Parker Trail

Dozens of arrows, 22 feet tall, pierce the landscape of the Panhandle Plains. They commemorate Quanah Parker, last chief of the Comanche, and the territory called Comanchería where his people lived.

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