I know most of you, like myself, are ready to jet off to a far-off destination as soon as possible. I have so many places on my bucket list that there’s no way I’ll get to scratch them all off. However, I’ve managed to find some unique places in Texas that let you travel the world without leaving the state, and they are truly amazing—reminding me of some places abroad. So even if you’re not planning on leaving the country soon, I’ve gathered a list of some of the best Texas destinations to visit with international flair!
Free Texas Travel Guide
If you want to plan more Texas trips without breaking the bank, I put together over 55 trips in Texas with detailed itineraries to help you plan amazing trips around the state with each trip costing less than $50 per person. You’ll be amazed at all the hidden gems, international influence, and wacky attractions you’ll find all over Texas!
Not ready to purchase quite yet? I wanted to make this guide as accessible as possible, so we’ve shared our 1st edition of our guide, 50 Texas Trips Under $50. Click the button below to get yours for FREE!
Travel The World Without Leaving Texas…
Instead of Visiting Stonehenge Visit…
Stonehenge II! In fact, Texas has two stone henges, but my favorite is in Ingram where they also have the Easter Island statues!
This free, public art installation pays homage to the original Stonehenge with its circle of concrete megaliths, but with a distinctly Texan twist. What truly sets Stonehenge II apart are the two, thirteen-foot-tall Easter Island head replicas flanking the megalith circle, making it an unforgettable landmark.
Instead of Visiting Wine Country in Italy…
How about the Fredericksburg Vineyards?
Fredericksburg is a haven for wine lovers! With over 60 wineries scattered around the Hill Country, you’ll find a vast array of options. Explore wineries housed in historic buildings and sip your way through beautiful landscapes. Many wineries even have connecting trails, making it easy to turn your visit into a multi-stop adventure.
Did you know Texas is making a name for itself in the wine industry? By going wine tasting in Fredericksburg, it’s easy to see why. You can read all about a trip to the vineyards here.
Instead of Riding Camels in the Sahara Desert…
How about going sand surfing in the Monahans Sandhills?
I bet you didn’t even know this was a thing! Well, let me tell you, it a pretty crazy fun experience!
Carved by ancient winds, these towering mountains of soft sand stretch for miles. Unlike most, they’re constantly shifting, creating a landscape that’s always changing. Hike the ever-changing dunes, sandboard down the slopes, or simply soak in the beauty of this unique Texas wonder.
Instead of Visiting the Taj Mahal in India…
Get a little view of an incredible Hindu Temple right outside of Houston in Sugar Land. BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir invites guests to respectfully enter and see their temple while learning about the faith.
Not only is it the first traditional Hindu Mandir in North America, but it’s also a marvel of intricate craftsmanship. Built in just 18 months with over a million volunteer hours, the BAPS Shri Swaminarayan Mandir is a place of worship that offers a place of peace, spiritual connection, and cultural exploration for visitors of all backgrounds.
Instead of Oktoberfest in Germany…
How about going to the WurstFest in New Braunfels?
Held for ten glorious days near the refreshing Comal River, this one-of-a-kind festival offers a smorgasbord of fun. Of course, no Wurstfest is complete without its star attraction – delicious sausages! This family-friendly event (with free entry for children under 12) is a must for anyone seeking a unique blend of German culture and Texas spirit.
New Braunfels is a historical German town, so of course they’re going to take their Oktoberfest very seriously. Wendy over at Wendy Darling wrote all about it here! It’s full of good beer, good food, and good people!
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Instead of Visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris…
How about visiting the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas?
Standing at a much shorter 66 feet, the Eiffel Tower in Paris, Texas packs a punch with its distinctly Texan flair. Built by local welders, this miniature replica boasts a giant red cowboy hat perched on top, making it a fun and unforgettable roadside attraction. This Eiffel Tower is completely free to visit and even lights up at night, showcasing the Texas flag’s colors.
It may be a little cheesy (the tower has a cowboy hat on top), but it is still totally worth it! Grab a box of macaroons, your favorite Parisian outfit, and eat croissants under the mini-Eiffel tower for the perfect romantic date all in Paris TX!
Instead of a Safari in Tanzania…
You can head to the adorable town of Glen Rose and visit the Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, with thousands of exotic animals and the largest cheetah breeding program. You might even get to make friends with a giraffe!
This unique park allows you to cruise through 1,800 acres on a self-guided driving tour or guided safari, encountering over 1,100 animals roaming free. Fossil Rim prioritizes conservation efforts. All in natural habitats designed for their well-being. This drive-thru wildlife experience is perfect for families seeking outdoor activities with the animal kingdom.
Instead of a Gondola Ride in Venice…
How about a romantic gondola ride in the Canals of Las Colinas in Irving? Plus, you won’t have to worry about all of the crowds!
Glide down waterways aboard a classic Venetian gondola, perfect for an unforgettable date night. Listen to the serenades from your gondolier, filled with Italian classics, as you soak in the scenery. This unique experience whisks you away to Venice without ever leaving Texas, making it ideal for proposals, anniversaries, or simply creating a magical memory with your loved one.
Instead of Visiting the Lavender Fields in Provence…
How about visiting the Bluebonnet fields in Ennis?
Held on a perfect time with the blooms, the Ennis Bluebonnet Festival offers a free and family-friendly way to experience the floral phenomenon. Drive along designated trails mapped out by the festival, each boasting a breathtaking display of bluebonnets. Back in town square, browse unique artisan goods, indulge in delicious festival treats, or even embark on a “wine wander” for an adult twist.
In the spring, Texas is covered with these blue beauties, but Ennis is especially popular for their blue fields.
Instead of Visiting the Tulip Fields and Windmill in Holland…
Check out the incredible Tulip fields in Waxahachie!
Texas offers its own vibrant take on the floral display in Waxahachie. Each year, Tulipalooza transforms Waxahachie Civic Center with a stunning spectacle of over 250,000 tulip bulbs. Tulipalooza boasts a festival atmosphere. Stroll through rows of colorful blooms in over 15 varieties, picking your own bouquet for a personalized souvenir.
Or you can head to Nederland, TX where they have a Windmill Museum that will make you feel like you’ve suddenly been transported to Holland, and they even have tulips out front!
Or See the World in Houston…
Houston is such a diverse city full of different cultures all in one place. Because of this, you can practically eat around the world without leaving Houston, as well as see a wide array of cultural art.
