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# HowTexas

Your Global Guide to Exploring the Heart of Texas

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- [Top 5 Hiking Trails Near Austin (For All Skill Levels)](https://howtexas.com/top-5-hiking-trails-near-austin-for-all-skill-levels/) - Austin, Texas isn’t just about live music and BBQ. For those willing to trade their cowboy boots for hiking shoes, the city sits on the edge of the beautiful Texas Hill Country, offering some of the most diverse terrain in the state. Whether you are looking for a rigorous workout on natural stairmasters or a
- [Where to Buy the Perfect Pair of Cowboy Boots in Fort Worth](https://howtexas.com/where-to-buy-the-perfect-pair-of-cowboy-boots-in-fort-worth/) - They call it Cowtown for a reason. If you are stepping onto the brick streets of Fort Worth without a proper pair of boots, you’re missing out on the soul of the city. Whether you are looking for a rugged pair for the ranch or a high-gloss exotic skin for a night at Billy Bob’s,
- [Exploring the Texas State Capitol in Austin](https://howtexas.com/exploring-the-texas-state-capitol-in-austin/) - Walking down Congress Avenue in Austin, your eyes are immediately drawn to a towering structure of Sunset Red Granite that commands the skyline. It’s not just a government building; it is a testament to the grand spirit of the Lone Star State. Visiting the Texas State Capitol isn't merely a walk through hallways; it's a
- [Texas State Fair: What Not to Miss (Seasonal Guide)](https://howtexas.com/texas-state-fair-what-not-to-miss-seasonal-guide/) - Everything really is bigger in Texas, and nothing proves that quite like the State Fair of Texas. If you are planning a trip to Dallas between late September and October, you are in for a legendary treat. This isn't just a carnival; it is a 24-day celebration of all things Texan, hosted at the historic
- [Guide to Texas Historical Missions (Beyond the Alamo)](https://howtexas.com/guide-to-texas-historical-missions-beyond-the-alamo/) - When travelers think of Texas history, the image of the Alamo usually dominates their imagination. While the "Shrine of Texas Liberty" is undeniably pivotal, it is merely the opening chapter of a much larger, stone-carved story. For those exploring the Lone Star State, understanding the full narrative requires venturing beyond downtown San Antonio. The Spanish
- [The Best Water Activities on Lake Travis](https://howtexas.com/the-best-water-activities-on-lake-travis/) - The Ultimate Guide to Water Activities on Lake Travis Lake Travis isn't just a water reservoir; it is the beating heart of outdoor recreation in the Texas Hill Country. With its crystal-clear limestone waters, winding snake-like path through the hills, and over 270 miles of shoreline, this lake offers something for every type of adventurer.
- [Volunteering and Eco-Tourism Opportunities in Texas](https://howtexas.com/volunteering-and-eco-tourism-opportunities-in-texas/) - Volunteering and Eco-Tourism Opportunities in Texas: A Guide to Traveling with Purpose Texas is vast. It is often defined by its sheer size, but for the eco-conscious traveler, the Lone Star State is defined by its incredible biodiversity. From the pine curtains of East Texas to the rugged deserts of the West, and down to
- [Texas BBQ 101: Brisket, Ribs, and the Best Joints to Visit](https://howtexas.com/texas-bbq-101-brisket-ribs-and-the-best-joints-to-visit/) - Welcome to the holy grail of carnivorous cuisine. If you are browsing HowTexas.com, you already know that barbecue here isn't just a meal; it is a religion, a sport, and a love language all rolled into one. Whether you are a first-time visitor or a local looking to expand your palate, understanding the nuances of
- [Where to Find the Best Late-Night Eats in Austin](https://howtexas.com/where-to-find-the-best-late-night-eats-in-austin/) - The Ultimate Guide to Late-Night Dining in Austin Austin, Texas, is known as the Live Music Capital of the World, but anyone who has spent a night two-stepping at the Broken Spoke or catching a show on Red River knows the truth: it’s also the capital of serious late-night cravings. When the venues close and
- [Understanding Texan Etiquette: Tips for International Visitors](https://howtexas.com/understanding-texan-etiquette-tips-for-international-visitors/) - Picture this: You’ve just landed in the Lone Star State. The sky is bigger, the tea is sweeter, and everyone seems to be waving at you. Welcome to Texas! While Texans are renowned for their Southern hospitality, there is an unwritten code of conduct that governs daily life here. Whether you are visiting for business
- [The Texas Music Scene: From Country to Blues](https://howtexas.com/the-texas-music-scene-from-country-to-blues/) - The Texas Music Scene: From Country to Blues When you step foot in the Lone Star State, you aren't just entering a massive geographical area; you are walking into a living, breathing melody. For visitors exploring Texas, understanding its musical heartbeat is just as crucial as visiting the Alamo or eating barbecue. From the smoky
- [Texas Desserts You Absolutely Must Try (Pecan Pie, Cobbler, etc.)](https://howtexas.com/texas-desserts-you-absolutely-must-try-pecan-pie-cobbler-etc/) - Texas Desserts You Absolutely Must Try (Pecan Pie, Cobbler, etc.) Discover the sweet side of the Lone Star State. From the official state pie to the hidden gems of Tex-Mex bakeries, here is your ultimate guide to Texas desserts. They say everything is bigger in Texas, and that rule definitely applies to our sweet tooth.
- [Where to Find the Best Breakfast Tacos in Austin vs. San Antonio](https://howtexas.com/where-to-find-the-best-breakfast-tacos-in-austin-vs-san-antonio/) - In Texas, asking who makes the best breakfast taco isn't just a culinary question; it is a way to start a fight. It is the Great Taco War. On one side, you have San Antonio, the defender of tradition and the undisputed king of the flour tortilla. On the other, Austin, the hip challenger known
- [Beyond the Steak: Texas's Surprising Seafood Scene](https://howtexas.com/beyond-the-steak-texass-surprising-seafood-scene/) - When most people think of Texas cuisine, their minds drift to smoky brisket, sizzling fajitas, or chicken fried steak the size of a hubcap. But if you stop there, you are missing out on one of the state's most vibrant and underrated culinary treasures. With over 360 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico,
- [Understanding Texan Slang and Phrases for Visitors](https://howtexas.com/understanding-texan-slang-and-phrases-for-visitors/) - Texas isn't just a state; it's a whole other state of mind. For visitors landing in Houston, driving through the Hill Country, or exploring the dusty plains of West Texas, the local language can sometimes feel like a foreign dialect. You might speak English, but do you speak Texan? Whether you are moving here or
- [The Story of Dr Pepper: A Texas Original](https://howtexas.com/the-story-of-dr-pepper-a-texas-original/) - The Story of Dr Pepper: A Texas Original If there is one flavor that captures the spirit of the Lone Star State, it isn't barbecue sauce or chili—it's the distinctive, indescribable taste of Dr Pepper. Born right here in Central Texas, this soda is more than just a sweet treat; it is a piece of
- [Vegetarian and Vegan Dining in Texas's Major Cities](https://howtexas.com/vegetarian-and-vegan-dining-in-texass-major-cities/) - Think Texas is all about brisket and cowboy steaks? Think again. While the Lone Star State wears its BBQ badge with pride, a quiet (and delicious) revolution has been simmering in its major cities. From Austin’s food truck parks to Houston’s multicultural culinary scene, Texas has become an unexpected haven for plant-based travelers. Whether you
- [Renting a Car in Texas: What Foreign Drivers Need to Know](https://howtexas.com/renting-a-car-in-texas-what-foreign-drivers-need-to-know/) - So, you’ve landed in the Lone Star State, ready to experience everything from the live music in Austin to the space centers in Houston. Here is the reality check: Texas is huge. Unlike many other destinations where you can rely on public transit, Texas practically demands that you have a car. But for international visitors,
- [Texas Travel Budget: How Much Money Do I Need Per Day?](https://howtexas.com/texas-travel-budget-how-much-money-do-i-need-per-day/) - Texas trip planning Texas Travel Budget: How Much Money Do I Need Per Day? Texas can be surprisingly flexible on price. You can keep it simple and still eat well, see iconic sights, and cover a lot of ground. The trick is knowing what your daily “base cost” looks like, then adding the Texas-specific extras:
- [Getting Around Texas Without a Car: Bus, Train, and Flights](https://howtexas.com/getting-around-texas-without-a-car-bus-train-and-flights/) - Texas is big. Still, you can move around smoothly without renting a car if you mix intercity buses, passenger trains, and short in-state flights. The trick is choosing the right tool for each distance and pairing it with local transit once you arrive. Table of Contents Quick Choices: Bus vs Train vs Flights Getting Around
- [Best Time to Visit Texas: Weather and Major Events Explained](https://howtexas.com/best-time-to-visit-texas-weather-and-major-events-explained/) - Best Time to Visit Texas: Weather and Major Events Explained Texas is huge, and it doesn’t travel like a single climate zone. One week can feel breezy in the Panhandle, warm in the Hill Country, and beachy on the Gulf Coast. If you pick your timing with the weather and the big annual events in
- [Understanding Tipping Culture in the United States (Texas Edition)](https://howtexas.com/understanding-tipping-culture-in-the-united-states-texas-edition/) - Understanding Tipping Culture in the United States (Texas Edition) Tipping in the U.S. can feel like a hidden language. In Texas, it’s usually friendly, direct, and practical. You’ll see tipping in restaurants, bars, hotels, tours, and many personal services. You’ll also see tip prompts on screens in places where tipping is optional. Texas quick takeaway:
- [Texas Travel Safety Guide for Solo International Travelers](https://howtexas.com/texas-travel-safety-guide-for-solo-international-travelers/) - Texas Travel Safety Guide for Solo International Travelers Traveling solo in Texas can feel wonderfully freeing. The cities are energetic, the landscapes are big, and the day trips are endless. This guide focuses on practical, day-to-day safety habits that help you stay comfortable and confident from arrival to checkout. Table of Contents Quick safety snapshot
- [How to Use Toll Roads (TollTag/EZ Tag) in Texas](https://howtexas.com/how-to-use-toll-roads-tolltag-ez-tag-in-texas/) - How to Use Toll Roads in Texas with TollTag, EZ TAG, or TxTag Driving around Texas often means crossing cashless toll roads and managed lanes. With the right tag on your windshield and a funded account, you pass through normally and pay the lowest available toll rates. No toll booths. No stopping. Just keep moving.
- [What to Know About Texas Sales Tax and Tax-Free Shopping](https://howtexas.com/what-to-know-about-texas-sales-tax-and-tax-free-shopping/) - What to Know About Texas Sales Tax and Tax-Free Shopping Texas makes it fairly easy to understand what you’ll pay at checkout—once you know one key detail: your combined sales tax rate (state + local). Add in Texas “tax-free” weekends (sales tax holidays), and you can plan bigger purchases with real confidence. Quick takeaways Texas
- [Essential Bird Watching Spots on the Texas Coast](https://howtexas.com/essential-bird-watching-spots-texas-coast/) - Table of Contents Why the Texas Coast is a Birder's Paradise Can't-Miss Birding Hotspots High Island (Upper Coast) Aransas National Wildlife Refuge (Central Coast) South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center (South Coast) Tips for Your First Texas Birding Trip References Why the Texas Coast is a Birder's Paradise It's all about location. Texas sits
- [Guide to the Space Center Houston (NASA/Johnson Space Center)](https://howtexas.com/space-center-houston-nasa-johnson/) - As your guides at HowTexas, we know that for many international travelers, this city's name is famous for one phrase: "Houston, we have a problem." That global recognition is tied directly to the Johnson Space Center (JSC), the heart of America's human spaceflight program. But how do you, as a visitor, get to see it?
- [The Best Places for Stargazing in Rural Texas](https://howtexas.com/best-places-for-stargazing-in-rural-texas/) - Texas is a state of vast, open spaces. While its cities pulse with life and light, that very light pollution obscures one of nature's greatest spectacles: the night sky. For anyone living in or visiting Texas, one of the most rewarding experiences is to get away from the city glow, look up, and see the
- [A Guide to Texas Rodeos: What to Wear and What to Expect](https://howtexas.com/texas-rodeos/) - Let's break down everything you need to know for your first Texas rodeo, from the events in the arena to the boots on your feet. Table of Contents What to Expect: The Main Events What to Wear: A First-Timer's Guide Beyond the Dirt: The Full Experience Pro-Tips for Your First Rodeo What to Expect: The
- [How to Attend a Texas High School Football Game (The Local Experience)](https://howtexas.com/attend-texas-high-school-football-game/) - In Texas, this isn't just a sport. It's a cultural phenomenon, a weekly town festival, and a serious display of local pride. The stands are packed, the marching bands are bigger (and louder) than you can imagine, and the energy is electric. But for a first-timer, it can be a little overwhelming. How do you
- [A First-Timer's Guide to the Fort Worth Stockyards](https://howtexas.com/fort-worth-stockyards/) - Welcome to Texas! As your guide to the Lone Star State, we want to let you in on a secret: if you're looking for the real Texas experience, you'll find it in Fort Worth. And at the heart of Fort Worth is a place where the spirit of the Wild West is alive and well:
- [Swimming Holes in the Texas Hill Country (Hamilton Pool Guide)](https://howtexas.com/swimming-holes-in-the-texas-hill-country/) - The Ultimate Guide to Hamilton Pool: A Texas Hill Country Oasis As your guides at HowTexas, we know you're looking for those unforgettable experiences that define the Lone Star State. While cities like Austin and Houston have their charms, the true magic for many travelers lies in the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country—a
- [Exploring the History of the Alamo: Before and After](https://howtexas.com/history-of-the-alamo/) - Located in the heart of modern-day San Antonio, the Alamo is often called the "Cradle of Texas Liberty." But before it was a cradle, it was a mission. And after it was a battleground, it was a ruin, a U.S. Army depot, and finally, the revered shrine you can visit today.To truly understand Texas, you
- [The Best State Parks in Texas for Hiking and Camping](https://howtexas.com/best-state-parks-in-texas-for-hiking-and-camping/) - When most people picture Texas, they see wide-open plains, bustling cities, and maybe a tumbleweed or two. As your guide to the Lone Star State, we're here to let you in on a secret: Texas has some of the most diverse and stunning natural landscapes in the country, and they are protected and preserved in
- [A Day Trip to Waco: Magnolia Market and Beyond](https://howtexas.com/waco-magnolia-market-beyond/) - A Day Trip to Waco: Magnolia Market and Beyond Let's be honest: for many, Waco, Texas, was put on the map by one powerhouse couple and their iconic silos. And while Magnolia Market at the Silos is absolutely worth the visit, treating Waco as *only* a "Fixer Upper" pilgrimage is like visiting Austin and ignoring
- [7 Must-Visit Museums in Texas That Tell the State's Story](https://howtexas.com/7-must-visit-museums-in-texas/) - Telling the Texas Story: 7 Must-Visit Museums Welcome, global traveler, to the heart of Texas! As your guide at HowTexas, we know that to truly understand this state, you have to appreciate its story—a sprawling narrative of independence, frontier spirit, tragedy, and triumph. While you're planning your city itineraries, make time for these incredible institutions.
- [The Texas Triangle: A 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary](https://howtexas.com/texas-triangle-a-7-day-road-trip-itinerary/) - The Texas Triangle: A 7-Day Road Trip Itinerary for First-Time Visitors Let's be honest: Texas is big. Really big. For a first-time visitor, staring at the map can be intimidating. You want to see the space-age tech of Houston, the cowboy culture of Fort Worth, the historic soul of San Antonio, and the weird, wonderful
- [Theme Parks in Texas: Six Flags vs. Schlitterbahn](https://howtexas.com/theme-parks-in-texas-six-flags-vs-schlitterbahn/) - When it comes to entertainment, Texas goes big. And in the scorching summer heat, nothing beats the thrill of a theme park. But if you're planning a trip, you'll quickly run into the two biggest names in the state: Six Flags and Schlitterbahn. On the surface, they're both fun-filled parks, but they offer vastly different
- [Where to Find the Best Murals and Street Art in Houston](https://howtexas.com/where-to-find-the-best-murals-and-street-art-in-houston/) - Where to Find the Best Murals and Street Art in Houston Houston is a city that pulses with a dynamic, creative energy. While it's known for its world-class museums, the city's true gallery is its streets. From massive, building-sized masterpieces to hidden gems in quiet alleys, Houston's street art scene is a sprawling, diverse, and
- [El Paso: The Ultimate Border City Guide](https://howtexas.com/el-paso/) - Tucked away in the far western corner of Texas, where the Lone Star State meets Mexico and New Mexico, you'll find a city of dramatic landscapes and deep cultural fusion: El Paso. Welcome to the "Sun City." Home to a staggering 300+ days of sunshine a year, El Paso is more than just a stopover;
- [Comparing Austin vs. Dallas: Which City is Right for Your Trip?](https://howtexas.com/austin-vs-dallas/) - Austin vs. Dallas: Which Texas City Should You Actually Visit? Alright, so you're planning a trip to Texas. Awesome! But now you've hit the first big question: Austin or Dallas? Let's be real, this is a tough one because these two cities couldn't be more different. We're talking apples and oranges... or maybe, barbecue and
- [Lubbock: The Home of Buddy Holly and West Texas Vistas](https://howtexas.com/lubbock/) - Alright, so you made it to Lubbock! Welcome to the "Hub City," the real, beating heart of West Texas. Let me tell you, this place is different. The sky just feels bigger out here. It's a city built on authentic history, and the music... well, it's legendary. If you're a tourist looking for something real—less
- [Exploring the Historic Charm of Galveston Island](https://howtexas.com/galveston-island/) - Beyond the Beach: Why Galveston's Historic Charm is a Must-See Okay, so you're planning a trip to Galveston, and you're probably thinking "beach time," right? And don't get me wrong, the beaches are great. But trust me, the real magic of this island, the thing you'll remember long after you shake the sand out of
- [Big Bend National Park: A Beginner's Guide to West Texas](https://howtexas.com/big-bend-national-park/) - Big Bend National Park: A Beginner's Guide to West Texas Magic Welcome to Texas, where everything is bigger—including the landscapes. If you're planning a trip to the Lone Star State, you've likely heard of Austin's music scene or Dallas's skyline. But for the truly adventurous tourist, the crown jewel of Texas is a remote, vast,
- [Houston: Beyond NASA – A Guide to Culture and Cuisine](https://howtexas.com/houston/) - When most international travelers think of Houston, one phrase comes to mind: "Houston, we have a problem." The city is globally synonymous with NASA and the Space Center. But to define Houston by space exploration alone is to miss the soul of Texas's largest and most diverse city. Welcome to the real Houston—a sprawling, dynamic
- [Dallas: Art, History, and the Best Shopping](https://howtexas.com/dallas-art-history-shopping/) - Welcome to Dallas! If you're picturing just cowboys and oil rigs, you're in for a wonderful surprise. Dallas is a sprawling, modern metropolis that pulses with an incredible energy. It’s a city where high fashion meets deep history, and world-class art is just around the corner from sprawling urban parks. For the international traveler, Dallas
- [San Antonio: Exploring the Alamo and River Walk](https://howtexas.com/san-antonio/) - Welcome to San Antonio, a city where the heart of Texas history beats strong, right alongside a vibrant, modern canalside paradise. For any traveler visiting the Lone Star State, San Antonio isn't just a stop; it's an essential experience. This guide is designed to help you navigate the city's two most iconic landmarks: The Alamo
- [The Texas Gulf Coast: Beaches, Seafood, and Sun](https://howtexas.com/texas-gulf-coast/) - Welcome to the Texas Riviera! Well, maybe that's a stretch, but the Texas Gulf Coast is a sprawling, vibrant, and utterly unique destination that holds a special place in the heart of every Texan. Stretching over 360 miles, this isn't just a single location; it's a diverse world of bustling port cities, sleepy fishing villages,
- [Hill Country Road Trip: Wine, Waterfalls, and Charming Towns](https://howtexas.com/hill-country-road/) - Hill Country Road Trip: Wine, Waterfalls, and Charming Towns Escape the big city buzz and discover the enchanting soul of the Lone Star State: The Texas Hill Country. This isn't the flat, arid Texas you might picture. This is a region of rolling hills, crystal-clear turquoise rivers, sprawling vineyards, and towns so charming they feel
- [The Ultimate 3-Day Austin Itinerary: Music, Food, and Culture](https://howtexas.com/the-ultimate-3-day-austin-itinerary-music-food-and-culture/) - Welcome to Austin, the "Live Music Capital of the World" and the vibrant heart of the Lone Star State. If you're a global traveler looking to experience the unique spirit of Texas, Austin is the perfect starting point. It's a city that proudly lives by its unofficial motto: "Keep Austin Weird."This 3-day itinerary is designed

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