Texas 4-City Road Trip: From Dallas to Houston

When the wheels hit Texas’ endless highways, the scenery shifts from Dallas’ urban skyline to Austin’s bohemian streets, then to San Antonio’s riverfront charm, and finally to Houston’s space dreams. This Dallas → Austin → San Antonio → Houston journey 🛣️ captures the Lone Star State’s most vivid essence: half wild road culture, half delicate life moments, plus sunshine that warms you to the core and locals who greet you with open arms. Austin, home to the University of Texas at Austin (UT Austin), is a haven for art lovers—and the Blanton Museum 🏛️ is a must-visit. It’s a total steal: $15 for regular admission, but only $8 for students. Even better? UT Austin students get in completely free! The museum boasts an impressive collection, from classical oil paintings to contemporary installations, and there are countless photo-worthy spots. Sun filters through floor-to-ceiling windows, casting soft light on minimalist galleries. Whether you’re posing beside an abstract piece or snapping a candid shot on a central bench, every photo exudes sophistication. You could easily spend half a day here and still crave more. No trip to Texas is complete without BBQ, and after testing three spots, my ranking is clear: Hutchins = non-negotiable 🍖! Their brisket is a game-changer—so tender it falls apart at the touch, with a smoky, crispy crust that bursts with flavor. The juices mix perfectly with their signature BBQ sauce, balancing richness and tang without being greasy. Pro tip: If you’re dining for dinner, arrive early! Their beef ribs are so popular they usually sell out by evening. I also tried Terry Black, and let’s just say it’s a “location-exclusive gem.” Only the Austin outpost lives up to the hype; other branches are mediocre at best, not worth the detour. Austin’s surprises don’t end with food and art—Texas Capitol totally shattered my stereotypes of “government buildings.” The free guided tours here are surprisingly fun 🎉! Guides weave Texas history and politics into engaging stories, no dry lectures here. They’ll even share insider photo tips, pointing out the most picturesque corners. The interior dome is grand yet elegant, with marble floors reflecting stunning murals. Sculptures and oil paintings line the hallways, each with its own story. Snap a few shots, then relax on the lawn outside, soaking up Texas’ laid-back vibe. Driving Texas highways? Don’t skip the iconic Buc-ee’s road culture experience 🛒! This local-favorite convenience store redefines the genre. Rows of Texas-exclusive snacks—spicy beef jerky, pecan cookies—and quirky souvenirs (think Texas-shaped fridge magnets and cowboy hats) fill the aisles. Staff offer free samples left and right, making it easy to stock up on treats. But the real shocker? The restrooms are immaculately clean ✨—tile floors spotless, a faint fresh scent in the air. No wonder Texans swear “a Texas trip isn’t complete without Buc-ee’s.” Pull over, grab a snack, and check it off your list. In Houston, NASA Johnson Space Center cranks up the awe factor 🚀. Standing next to real rocket fragments—scorched and weathered from space—you’ll feel both tiny and inspired by humanity’s cosmic ambitions. The training facilities are equally impressive; peering into astronaut simulators, you can almost imagine the rigor of preparing for space. Critical tip: Arrive right when it opens to snag tram tour tickets—afternoon slots sell out fast. Short on time? The Astronaut Training Facility Tour alone is worth the visit, offering an up-close look at the science behind space travel. Houston River Walk, though, is a bit underwhelming. Frankly, it pales in comparison to Chicago’s riverfront 🚶. The scenery is pleasant enough—restaurants and bars line the water—but it feels overly commercial, lacking unique charm. It’s nice for an evening stroll to catch the breeze, but don’t prioritize it on your itinerary. The trip’s most unforgettable highlight? Shooting at a friend’s farm range 🔫. Gripping a gun for the first time, I was equal parts nervous and exhilarated. With a friend’s guidance, I aimed, fired, and listened as the shot echoed across the open fields—suddenly feeling totally badass. Friends tell me Texas has tons of professional ranges with better facilities, expert instructors, and a wider variety of guns. Next Texas trip? This is top of my list. Wrapping up this 4-city adventure, my Texas takeaway is simple: Big, sunny, and far-flung—but utterly lovable ❤️. Texas’ “big” means endless highways; driving between cities takes hours. The sun is intense (sunscreen and a hat are non-negotiable). But the upside? Affordable prices, delicious, budget-friendly food (a hearty BBQ meal for under $20!), and free attractions like the Capitol tour. Most of all, Texans are incredibly warm—they’ll give you detailed directions, slip extra samples into your bag, and make you feel right at home. If you’re craving a trip with hea #US #Texas #Houston