By: Natalie Wilson | From: The Independent
Texas, the “Lone Star State” famous for its cowboy culture, Tex-Mex cuisine and Southern hospitality has a dynamic landscape fit for small-town and huge metropolitan city breaks.
With mild to hot temperatures year-round, the Texas slice of the Wild West is the perfect host for holidaymakers looking to indulge in country music, state fairs and cattle ranch rodeos in the company of friendly locals. Road trip stops in Amarillo on Route 66 meet romantic stays in San Antonio and nights at gigs in Austin, and the second largest state in both size and population is as versatile as it is vast.
Think Big Bend National Park in west Texas for adventures in nature, Six Flags theme park in Arlington for endless thrills, and the historic Alamo site to learn about the Texas Revolution. From cosmopolitan Dallas to coastal Corpus Christi, here are the best cities to visit for the ultimate Texas holiday.
San Antonio
In south Texas, San Antonio is full of history (including the Alamo), Natural Bridge Caverns and El Mercardo, the largest Mexican market in the US. The River Walk promenade hosts miles of shops, restaurants and cafes at water level – take a guided walking tour or cruise the lush banks to charming downtown at one of Texas’ most popular tourist spots. Nearby in Hill Country, a one-hour drive away, Bandera, the “Cowboy Capital of the World” gives a taste of the Wild West with cattle drives, adventurous landscapes and rodeos.
Where to stay
Candlewood Suites Hotel features an indoor pool, comfortable rooms and an attractive central location. Clean, spacious suites, some well equipped with kitchen facilities and cosy seating areas, are a stone’s throw from several parks.