Texas is big. It’s big on food, big on travel, big on fun — it’s big on everything, really. In such a vast state, first-time visitors are spoilt for choice when it comes to tourist draws. In the state’s biggest cities, those seeking to venture off the beaten path and discover the real Texas will want to blend the obvious with the authentic.
Twinkle lights, riverboats, and historic charm — welcome to Texas. (Photo Credit: Robin LeeAnn)
We’ve handpicked a healthy selection of the state’s best cities with some up-and-coming stops so y’all can have the best time on your next visit down south.
San Antonio
San Antonio is a worthy stop in Texas — its famed attraction is the Alamo, a physical shrine to Texan liberty. Often dubbed “the heart of Texas,” the Alamo tells the story of the independent Texan spirit. And, if you’re lucky, you’ll get to meet Bella, the Alamo cat. (Really — the Alamo cat has lived on-site since the 1980s.)
Next, stop by the San Antonio Riverwalk where you can take a boat ride amongst twinkle lights and bustling restaurants. Stop at the coolest immersive art exhibit at Hopscotch and then wander the historic Pearl district, where the city’s top chefs operate. Our top pick? The Asian-American eatery, Best Quality Daughter, is renowned for its out-of-this-world Char Siu.
A stay at Kimpton Santo Hotel means waking up in the heart of San Antonio. (Photo Credit: @jwccollective)
At Kimpton Santo Hotel, history meets modern luxury in the most stylish way possible. (Photo Credit: @jwccollective)
Where to stay: Kimpton Santo Hotel
Dallas
Because we couldn’t have a Texas itinerary without including Dallas. A visit to Dallas is the perfect excuse to dress up and hit the town with friends — a vibrant change of pace from the state’s more laid-back spots.
Deep Ellum is a lively hotspot in the city, drawing Dallas’ trendiest crowds. Swing by Deep End — Kimpton Pittman Hotel’s poolside outdoor bar — as it is an ideal spot for great conversation and cheeky cocktails. When it comes to sightseeing, the staples are the Reunion Tower observation deck and the Sixth Floor Museum which chronicles the assassination of JFK.
Spend the day at Kimpton Pittman Hotel’s poolside outdoor bar, Deep End. (Photo Credit: @chanteallday)
Where history meets Deep Ellum cool — Kimpton Pittman Hotel brings Art Deco flair to the city’s trendiest neighborhood. (Photo Credit: @parkerstreetfoodandtravel)
Where to stay: Kimpton Pittman Hotel
Fort Worth
Dallas may be the region’s powerhouse, but Fort Worth is hot on its heels. The rodeos in this city are legendary — not to mention its twice-daily cattle drive. Not sure what a cattle drive is? Don’t worry (we didn’t either) — but it’s just what it sounds like. Twice a day, the region’s cowhands drive a herd of Texas longhorns down East Exchange Avenue. It’s a sight to behold.
After a long day out in that hot Texas sun, head back to Kimpton Harper Hotel for the best, freshest pasta in the city at Il Modo. We recommend the Mafaldine pasta — made with fresh wild mushrooms, brussels sprouts, and creamed cauliflower. Afterward, make your way upstairs to Refinery 714, the hotel’s penthouse whiskey bar, where you’ll find the best views in Fort Worth.
Fort Worth is one of the most historic cities in Texas. (Photo Credit: Michael Fallon)
Where to stay: Kimpton Harper Hotel
Austin
Austin is the perfect Texan introduction for out-of-towners. This capital city is awash with history, live music, international cuisine, and modern museums. Top tourist-friendly attractions include the historical Texas Capitol, the Museum of Ice Cream, and Barton Springs Pool.
Looking for more of an authentic vibe? Chill with the locals who sip sinfully good cocktails at Devil May Care. And try to find Here Nor There, a hidden bar that dubs itself “a winding exploration of flavors and stories.” (Book this one in advance.)
An afternoon spent at Barton Springs Pool may just be perfection. (Photo Credit: Alex George)
From hidden speakeasies to live music legends, Austin’s got a rhythm all its own. (Photo Credit: Tomek Baginski)
If you are a music lover, plan your trip around a show at Austin City Limits, an iconic Texan venue that showcases a variety of different artists. Interested in more of a life-altering, inspirational event? Head to SXSW, which typically happens in March each year.
Fredericksburg
From Austin, take a 1.5-hour drive to Texas Wine Country, less commonly known as Fredericksburg. Taste your way through a wide variety of Gillespie wineries, then learn about the town’s rich history via a vintage trolley tour, at the National Museum of the Pacific War, and the Vereins Kirche Museum.
Foodies are spoilt for choice in Fredericksburg, with a huge variety of brilliant eateries both classic and new. Try Eaker for barbecue, West End for pizza, and Hill & Vine for southern fare. Finally, be prepared to shop on the city’s adorable, old-town Main Street.
Wine country, but made in Texas. (Photo Credit: Mark Boss)
Where to stay: Take your Fredericksburg getaway to the next level with a stay at the upcoming 212-room Kimpton hotel, perfectly positioned in the heart of downtown. This stylish retreat is set to blend seamlessly with Fredericksburg’s smile-inducing vibe — with a full-service restaurant, chic lobby bar, and even a poolside lounge, you might just find yourself tempted to swap sightseeing for sipping and staycationing instead.
