Travel Guide: Texas

Texas, the second-largest U.S. state, boasts vast landscapes—from deserts and pine forests to Gulf Coast beaches—and a rich blend of cowboy heritage, vibrant cities, and world-renowned barbecue

Texas is where vibrant cities and scenic landscapes come together, creating the perfect setting for me to capture stunning photos, savor incredible food, and explore my family history with each visit.

In Waco, beyond the iconic Magnolia Market, Cameron Park beckons with its lush trails, dramatic cliffs, and peaceful river views—a nature lover’s paradise that’s perfect for morning photos as the light filters through the trees.

Dallas, meanwhile, balances urban sophistication with classic Texas charm. The sleek architecture of the Dallas Arts District and its world-class museums provide endless inspiration for photographers, but the city truly shines in its culinary scene. From upscale Texas fare to globally influenced dining, Dallas offers something delicious at every turn.

Heading south, Austin is all about creativity and natural beauty. Rolling hills and the shimmering waters of Lady Bird Lake offer a stunning green backdrop for outdoor adventures, while the city’s eclectic food scene, from farm-to-table gems to inventive food trucks, captures Austin’s free-spirited vibe.

Finally, Houston greets visitors with cosmopolitan flair and a rich diversity that comes alive in its cuisine. The city’s impressive skyline, Museum District, and serene spots like Buffalo Bayou Park make it a fitting final stop on a Texas journey full of contrasts and unforgettable moments.

Stay
Hilton Austin The Hilton Austin hotel in Austin, Texas, is a contemporary hotel situated in downtown Austin, near the city's vibrant nightlife and entertainment venues.
Hotel Indigo Waco – Baylor Located in Waco, Texas, Hotel Indigo Waco - Baylor is a great hotel for travelers looking for a pause between destinations on I35
JW Marriott Austin The JW Marriott Austin is a beautiful, tastefully decorated hotel in Austin, Texas. However, be prepared for possible parking issues
Lorenzo Hotel Dallas, Tapestry Collection by Hilton Lorenzo Hotel Dallas, part of the Tapestry Collection by Hilton, is a trendy, art-filled boutique hotel located in the heart of downtown Dallas, Texas
The Otis Hotel Austin, Autograph Collection The Otis Hotel Austin, Autograph Collection is a fun, uniquely styled hotel in Austin, Texas
tommie Austin tommie Austin is a unique European inspired concept hotel, sharing space to the Thompson hotel in Austin, Texas
Experiences
Comedy Mothership Comedy Mothership serves as a hub for stand-up performances, attracting comedians and fans alike - in Austin, Texas
Exploring the Natural Caves of Longhorn Caverns State Park Longhorn Cavern State Park in Texas is a fascinating geological site featuring stunning underground rock formations shaped by centuries of natural forces.
Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin is a stunning botanical garden dedicated to native Texas plants and wildflowers.
Mission San Jose of the San Antonio Missions Visiting the Mission San Jose of the San Antonio Missions was a distinct learning experience about the history of Southern Texas
Eat
Bird Bird Biscuit Bird Bird Biscuit restaurant offers delicious, straight to the point chicken and biscuit sandwiches in Austin, Texas
Brazos Bar & Bistro Brazos Bar & Bistro was a phenomenal cocktail and spirits bar at the Hotel Indigo Waco in Waco, Texas
Cajun Craft Cajun Craft is the perfect, cozy hometown style eatery, serving Southern comfort food in Waco, Texas
Cosmic Coffee & Drinks – South Austin Cosmic Coffee in Austin is a laid-back spot offering craft coffee, local beers, and a tranquil outdoor garden.
Dichotomy Coffee and Spirits Dichotomy Coffee and Spirits is a wonderful coffee bar in the front / cocktail bar in the back social space in in Waco, Texas
Emmer & Rye Emmer & Rye in Austin, Texas, is a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its inventive farm-to-table cuisine and emphasis on seasonal ingredients.
Hestia Hestia in Austin, Texas, is a sophisticated restaurant that centers its menu around live-fire hearth cooking of high-quality ingredients in a sleek, modern setting.
Home Slice Pizza Dinner at Home Slice Pizza was a great way to walk away with dinner - and brunch for the next day - in Austin, Texas
JW Marriott Austin Lobby Bar Taking a seat at the Lobby Bar at JW Marriott Austin gave me a tasteful tour of local Texas spirits and vibrant conversation
LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue in Austin is known for its innovative approach to Texas barbecue, offering creative cuts of meat and seasonal sides.
Paperboy Paperboy in Austin is a popular brunch spot known for its inventive, locally sourced dishes served in a stylish yet casual setting.
Salt Lick Barbecue Looking for delicious barbecue around Austin? Salt Lick Barbecue is a top notch choice for Texas' best dinner plate.
St. Elmo Brewing Company St. Elmo Brewing Co. in Austin, Texas, is a popular brewery known for its diverse lineup of craft beers and laid-back, industrial-chic atmosphere.
State of Grace Dinner at State of Grace was a delicious spot for a relaxed and delicious meal, in Houston, Texas
Still Austin Whiskey Company + Distillery Tour Still Austin Whiskey Company in Austin, Texas is a renowned craft distillery specializing in small-batch whiskeys made from Texas-grown grains.
Suerte Suerte restaurant's menu selections offer some of the best TexMex style cuisine I've enjoyed in Austin, Texas.
Sushi by Scratch Restaurants – Cedar Creek Sushi by Scratch Restaurants in Cedar Creek outside of Austin is everything I love about omakase: decadence, deliciousness - and fun
Terry Black’s Barbecue Terry Black's Barbecue is a local barbecue cuisine staple - with good food without excessively long lines - in Austin, Texas
The Grey Market The Grey Market is a cute diner spot, serving assorted regional dishes, adjacent to the tommie Austin hotel
The Saint The Saint restaurant is a chic steakhouse in Dallas, Texas known for its elegant ambiance and expertly crafted steaks.
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