If you are from you Texas you realize very quick that it is like no other state. People here love to call it “The Great Nation of Texas” (Eye Roll). I’ve lived in Texas for awhile now and I see why people love this state so much!

“I have said that Texas is a state of mind, but I think it is more than that. It is a mystique closely approximating a religion” John Steinbeck’s words shroud Texas in supernatural wonder and correctly reflects much of the state’s magic.

But whether or not you agree with him, one thing is certain: the Lone Star State is a wonder, so make sure to check the best nine reasons to visit Texas.

9- COWBOY CULTURE.

Let’s state the facts—we all played cowboy when we were young, so why not embrace it during adulthood? Texas has the whole playing-cowboy thing covered in spades. Be sure to drop by at Billy Bob’s Texas in the Fort Worth Stockyards to experience a real honky-tonk, including bull-riding, dance stations, restaurants and more.

8- LIVE MUSIC CAPITAL OF THE WORLD.

Music lover? Then Texas is your dream destination. Austin hosts more live music shows per capita than anywhere else in the United States, including iconic festivals such as South by Southwest (SXSW),Austin City Limits Music Festival, and many more—perfectly suited for all tastes and genres.

7- CATHEDRAL OF SAN FERNANDO.

This Catholic cathedral is one of San Antonio’s main jewels. Despite it being amongst the country’s oldest churches, it keeps a modern approach thanks to “San Antonio | The Saga”—a beautiful lightshow that displays the city’s history in a dynamic and artistic way. It’ll continue for five more years, so do not miss it!

6- TEX-MEX.

Considered a subtype of South-western cuisine, Tex-Mex foodis a delicious mix between Mexican and American culture, crafted by Tejanos—Texans of Mexican origins. Visiting Texas means you’ll always have a Tex-Mex restaurant nearby; a complete blessing because nachos with quesoare a delight.

5- THE STATE FAIR OF TEXAS.

Originated on January 30thin 1886, the State Fair of Texas is held annually between September and October in the city of Dallas. It’s none other than the largest fair in the country, so it naturally features a wide variety of activities, including animal encounters, concerts, and a foodie’s dream paradise.

4- SIX FLAGS OVER TEXAS.

Thrill and fun seekers, this one is for you. Located in the city of Arlington, Six Flags Over Texas is known as the Thrill Capital of Texas—and it sure honors its name. Some of its attractions are actual record breakers; such as The Texas SkyScreamer—the world’s tallest swing carousel ride.

3- SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK.

The San Antonio River Walk—unsurprisingly located in San Antonio—is a 15-mile urban waterway that you just can’t miss. Enjoy the spicy nightlife, visit the countless museums, shop ‘til you drop, or simply enjoy a boat ride as the colorful view unfolds in front of your very own eyes.

2- LYNDON B. JOHNSON SPACE CENTER.

Nicknamed “Space City”,the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center in Houston hosts over a hundred buildings dedicated to space activities, including the “mission control” of the famed Apollo, Gemini and Space Shuttle programs—a fantastic museum to learn about space missions.

1- HISTORICAL LANDMARKS.

Texas has a complex and rich history, so if you are a history nerd—like me—you should definitelydrop by to study it firsthand.

The Dealey Plaza Historic District where John F. Kennedy was assassinated, the Alamo, or the Bullock Texas State History Museum are must-visit spots.

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