These Are The 14 Most Beautiful Towns In Texas You Should Visit (2024)

Texas is the second largest state in the United States, making it one big playground for outdoor lovers. The Lone Star State is most known for its desert scenery, but it also boasts a varied landscape. It has coastal swamps, the Gulf of Mexico, woods, rugged hills, rolling plains, and the Big Bend mountains, all working together to deliver superb moments outdoors.

Exploring its urban jungle is as exciting as its wilderness, but those who want to experience a unique Texas charm should head beyond the capital Austin, and bustling Dallas. There’s beauty beyond the metropolis, something easily seen in Texas.

14 Wimberley

Cypress Creek at Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley, Texas, United States.

Wimberley is a small, picturesque town in Texas, offering a peaceful escape amid gorgeous surroundings. With antique shops, especially in Wimberley Square, there is so much to satisfy a shopaholic. Plus, there are many cabins, B&Bs, inns, and cottages, offering accommodation for every budget. There are also several chances for fishing, swimming, camping, hiking, and horseback riding along the Blanco River and Cypress Creek. There's a lot more! Bluegrass jams and local galleries, as well as Market Days (held on the first Saturday of each month), attract a multitude of visitors.

• Things to see and do: Jacob's Well Natural Area, Blue Hole Regional Park, Wimberley Zipline Adventures, Wimberley Glassworks, Wimberley Market Days

13 Port Isabel

Port Isabel, TX, USA

With stunning white sand, rich coastal history, and a remote location from the city's crowds, Port Isabel is the ideal setting for a relaxing retreat. The town has something for every type of traveler, ranging from wetlands with diverse wildlife and fishing piers to flea markets and museums. Not to be overlooked is Texas's oldest lighthouse still in operation, Port Isabel Lighthouse! Those who want to have some fun in the sea can go fishing, kayaking, or even dolphin-watching. The town is also the site of the yearly Texas International Fishing Tournament.

• Things to see and do: Port Isabel Lighthouse, Port Isabel Historic Museum, Take a Dolphin-Watching Tour, Enjoy water sports in Laguna Madre Bay, Go fishing in the Gulf of Mexico.

12 Rockport

A long stretch of beach in Rockport, Texas USA

Rockport, a coastal town, is the perfect beach getaway with lots of fun, thrills, and relaxation! While the clear, azure sea offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and watersports, the historic neighborhood dazzles with its Queen Anne architecture and structures, such as the Fulton Mansion and Hoopes-Smith House. Goose Island State Park is known for being home to the millennium-old Big Tree, one of America's tallest and biggest living oak trees. Add to that lovely restaurants, chic stores, and art galleries, and visitors are in for a treat!

• Things to see and do: Texas Maritime Museum, Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, Birdwatching in Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, Fishing in Rockport Beach Park, Kayaking

11 Salado

Old Town Salado, Texas

For those interested in historic structures as well as art and creativity, Salado is the best town to visit in Texas. With many old structures (around 20) listed on the National Register of Historic Places and the state's oldest hotel, Stagecoach Inn, the town is a magnet for history buffs. There is more for outdoor lovers; they can take a carriage tour, visit a winery, or go on a scenic walk at the Salado Gardens. And, with numerous chic cafes, lively restaurants, gift shops, and art events, visitors are in for a treat!

• Things to see and do: Salado Creek Winery & Vineyard, Salado Sculpture Garden, Shop at Salado's Historic Main Street, Tour the Stagecoach Inn, Enjoy a round of golf at Mill Creek Golf Club

10 Fredericksburg

The Main Street in Fredericksburg, Texas, also known as "The Magic Mile", with retail stores and people walking

Fredericksburg is often included in lists featuring beautiful Texas towns, as it should be because it has the credentials. For starters, it has the Enchanted Rock, the “second largest pink granite monadnock” in the country, perfect for those who want to drink in the sights of Central Texas. It also has the historic Cross Mountain Park, where relaxation is always within grasp, even though the trek uphill is quite taxing. Meanwhile, history buffs can have fun learning experiences at the National Museum of the Pacific War. What if tourists want to cap their day with wine? Fredericksburg can offer just that.

• Things to see and do: Wine Tasting, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Shopping on Main Street, Visit the National Museum of the Pacific War, LBJ State and National Historical Parks

9 Jefferson

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The historic Jefferson Carnegie Library in Jefferson, Texas, USA

History buffs will enjoy exploring the pre-civil war town of Jefferson, where they can appreciate its scenic streets, historic hotels and churches, and other landmarks that tell stories of a rich past. Tours abound in the area, especially those taking guests in the pristine Caddo Lake. Meanwhile, sightseers will have a satisfying day just by visiting the attractions, where Instagram savvies will be busy. From the town center to the scenic bayou, the city of Jefferson will inspire tourists of varied tastes.

• Things to see and do: Historic Downtown Jefferson, Steamboat Tours on Caddo Lake, Jefferson Historical Museum, Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides, Big Cypress Bayou Riverboat Tours

8 Gruene

Gruene Mansion, a historic landmark that is now a working Inn, in Gruene, Texas

Those looking for greener pastures should look no further than Gruene, a town where tourism is booming. This Texas charmer by the Guadalupe River is known for its German heritage that is mixed with the local culture, creating a unique community where inspiration is always within grasp. One of its top attractions is Gruene Hall, the oldest dance hall in the state, where performances will rejuvenate the audience. History buffs, meanwhile, can visit the Gruene Family Home, with its simplicity exuding beauty – just like the whole town.

• Things to see and do: Gruene Historic District, Gruene Hall, Guadalupe River, Gruene Antique Company, Gruene Market Days

7 Dripping Springs

J.L. Patterson Building in Dripping Springs, Texas

Dubbed the “Gateway to the Hill Country,” Dripping Springs got the drip and then some. This city is near the bustling metropolis of Austin, offering urban dwellers a quick hangout spot when they are raring for some calm. After all, the town boasts of its parks, like Charro Ranch for birdwatchers, the Sculpture Garden for lovers of the art, and Dripping Springs Ranch Park for recreation lovers. History buffs, meanwhile, can head to the historic Mercer Street or Dr. Pound Historical Farmstead Museum if they want a throwback journey.

• Things to see and do: Hamilton Pool Preserve, Dripping Springs Distilling, Pedernales Falls State Park, Mercer Street Dance Hall, Solaro Estate Winery

6 Hunt

The historical marker for Hunt, Texas

Thanks to the community of Hunt, the hunt is over for those looking for a place to spend their summer days. This Texas destination is known for its summer camps, like the all-girls Waldemar. Vacation lovers are in for a treat in this town that lies by the pristine Guadalupe River, where they can take the plunge in the swimming spot of Schumacher’s Crossing. Meanwhile, those who want to hike can explore the trails of Kerr Wildlife Management Area, where wildlife awaits them. A visit to this town is never complete without dropping by the charming Hunt Store, where good deals can be scored.

• Things to see and do: Guadalupe River State Park, Kerr Wildlife Management Area, Hunt Store, Kayaking and Tubing on the Guadalupe River, Exotic Wildlife Viewing at the YO Ranch

5 Granbury

The historic town square in Granbury, Texas, USA

As they say in Granbury, “Welcome is more than just a word” in the city. Why so? The town is small, but it’s big on surprises, so locals are experts in welcoming curious travelers. After all, it is often a part of the nation’s best small-town lists. Southern hospitality is always felt in this destination, where tourists can join trolley escapades, view the sunset by the beach, paddle the pristine Brazos River, or taste good wine. Whatever visitors plan to do, Granbury is one grand place to be.

• Things to see and do: Granbury Square, Granbury Opera House, Lake Granbury, Revolver Brewing, Granbury City Beach

4 Marfa

Prada Marfa Permanent Art Display in Marfa, Texas

Vogue magazine describes Marfa as the country’s “coolest art town,” while National Public Radio said it’s an “art oasis.” This city of minimalist artworks started its creative blossoming when artist Donald Judd moved here. From then on, it has attracted other creative souls -- creators or spectators. Many art galleries and museums can be explored in the city, something to entice those looking for inspiration. Another claim to fame of Marfa is the supposedly mysterious lights that attract visitors worldwide.

• Things to see and do: Marfa Lights Viewing, Visit the Chinati Foundation, Explore Prada Marfa, Stargazing at the McDonald Observatory, Art Galleries and Studios Tour

3 El Paso

Pools of water in huecos at Hueco Tanks in El Paso, Texas, TX, USA

Tourists should not pass up the chance to visit El Paso when they are in Texas. After all, it’s one of the state’s most famous cities, where the Rio Grande entices travelers to explore beyond its urban hubs. This destination combines history, culture, and nature to provide visitors with a holistic travel experience. History buffs will enjoy exploring its many museums, while lovers of culture and the arts can be inspired by the city’s varied festivals. Lastly, Franklin Mountains State Park, the largest urban state park in the country, awaits those who want to have fun with Mother Nature.

• Things to see and do: Franklin Mountains State Park, El Paso Mission Trail, El Paso Museum of Art, Take a scenic drive along Trans-Mountain Road, Visit the El Paso Zoo

2 Canyon

Palo Duro Canyon, Texas

As its name suggests, the city of Canyon is in a valley of the expansive Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest in the United States. When visiting this Texas town, tourists can first stroll along its streets and check out the Panhandle–Plains Historical Museum, the largest history museum in the state. Afterward, they could either head to the working Elkins Ranch to appreciate the vibe of West Texas heritage or enjoy an enlivening show of Texas Outdoor Musical. When staying for more than a day, it’s best to explore Palo Duro before going home, taking with them inspiring memories of the charming Canyon.

• Things to see and do: Palo Duro Canyon State Park, Hiking and Trail Exploration, Texas Outdoor Musical, Horseback Riding, Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum

1 Amarillo

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, Texas

Amarillo shares with Canyon the Palo Duro, making this another city where the adventure never stops. However, this Texas destination is more than the canyon as it’s also proud of its other attractions. Firstly, it has Cadillac Ranch, a Route 66 artwork installation worthy of many Instagram snaps. Those looking for cowboy moments should visit the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum, while those with a big appetite can try the 72-ounce steak challenge of The Big Texan Steak Ranch. Indeed, Amarillo can fill the tummies and souls of tourists.

• Things to see and do: Cadillac Ranch, Palo Duro Canyon State Park, American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame, Don Harrington Discovery Center, Big Texan Steak Ranch