DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP
Deep in the heart of Texas
Texas - Texas
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Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 1: Trinity Forest Adventure Park 1/12
Before you hit the open road, visit the only aerial adventure park in Texas. The thrilling tree-top tours, courses and challenges of Trinity Forest are just minutes from the centre of Dallas but let you escape into a daring world of ropes, zip-wires, ladders and safety nets. You choose the level of difficulty; they provide a route through the oak trees. Expect a memorable exploration using wobbling bridges, balancing bars, climbing aids and high wires.
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 2: Davy Crockett National Forest 2/12
Here’s a chance to take a break at another huge and beautiful forest. The Davy Crockett National Forest covers a massive 160,000 acres, which means you’ll have a fantastic choice of trails, camping grounds, picnic sites, streams and recreation areas. Enjoy the well-equipped beach at Ratcliff Lake or take an inspiring hike through the wilderness area. Expect long shaded stretches and clearings with panoramic views across the woodlands. (Image credit: Brian Stansbe)
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 3: Sam Houston Park 3/12
Once you arrive among the skyscrapers at the heart of Houston you can discover an unlikely oasis of calm. The Sam Houston Park may be nestled in the center of downtown Houston, but it offers a tranquil and historic 20 acres of parkland. The leafy shade around period fountains leads you to the acclaimed open-air museum of ancient buildings re-assembled in the park. These include an early settlers’ log cabin, a Victorian chapel and Houston’s oldest brick house.
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 4: The Galleria 4/12
A short drive west across the city, you’ll find an escape of a very different kind. The Galleria is the biggest shopping centre in Texas and one of the ten largest in the USA. With close to 400 stores and restaurants, two hotels, and a full-size ice rink, it’s no surprise that The Galleria is the city’s most popular retail attraction. And don’t worry about parking: there are seven garages with 13,000 spaces in total. (Image credit: Postoak)
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 5: Space Center 5/12
A short drive to the southeast, you can explore the extraordinary world of space travel at Houston’s famous Space Center - the source of the iconic ‘This is Houston’ messages that punctuated US space missions. Visiting the Space Center gives you the chance to step inside that same Mission Control and see the planet’s best collection of lunar vehicles. You can also enjoy a mind-boggling array of astronauts’ equipment and experience interactive rides designed to bring to life what it’s really like in space. (Image credit: ilovebutter)
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 6: The Alamo Mission 6/12
The Alamo fortified Mission complex was a symbol of liberty even before it was besieged by the Mexican army for two weeks in 1836. The handful of heroic Texan defenders, including Davy Crockett, were killed but their stand inspired generations of Americans. Today you can stroll around the four-acre site in the footsteps of the brave Alamo defenders and discover historic buildings that were at the heart of the battle.
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 7: San Fernando Cathedral 7/12
Experience the historic heart of San Antonio by visiting its spiritual center. Its rich history means that it's so much more than an elegant church that’s almost 300 years old; the cathedral is the last resting place of Davy Crockett and the site of Texan hero Jim Bowie’s wedding. Visitors can also see how the towers of the 18th-century building were used by Santa Anna’s Mexican troops as a look-out post.
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 8: Hill Country Mile 8/12
In the picturesque hills just north of San Antonio, you’ll find the pretty town of Boerne (pronounced ‘Burnee’). Among period mansions and attractive waterfronts, you’ll be able to wander the Hill Country Mile. This walking trail is an adventure through classic small town charm. It leads along the riverside and main street, where you’ll find the best restaurants and most interesting independent local speciality stores, ranging from fashion boutiques to antique shops.
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 9: Mayan Dude Ranch 9/12
For a real taste of the Texan rustic lifestyle, check into the Mayan Dude Ranch just outside of Bandera. Enjoy two trail rides a day with a cowboy guide and enjoy 348 acres of stunning trails from the Medina River to high in the hills for panoramic views. Dine on succulent Texan BBQ food and join in on a singsong around the bonfire under the beautiful Texan stars for a truly unforgettable experience.
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 10: The Bosque 10/12
In the heart of San Angelo, this landscaped park gives you the chance to enjoy the wooded Concho riverbank. Opening Memorial Day weekend for the summer season, the picturesque recreation area has been carefully designed to offer a wide range of entertainment, including mini-golf, volleyball, fishing, chess and ball games. You can even rent a paddleboat on the river. You’ll find food stalls here too, and look out for regular outdoor music events.
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 11: The Sixth Floor Museum 11/12
You’ll realise the significance of the Sixth Floor Museum when you discover it stands in Dealey Plaza, in a building formerly known as the Texas School Book Depository. It’s the spot where Lee Harvey Oswald assassinated President Kennedy in 1963. The museum is full of impressive video and interactive displays telling the story - but it’s the sniper’s spot and the fateful view over the road outside that is most memorable.
Deep in the heart of Texas
Stop 12: Trinity Groves 12/12
Head to the west side of downtown to find the liveliest restaurant area in Dallas. Trinity Groves is spread across 15 acres and has been called a 'dining theme park’ by locals. You’ll find everything from delicious Chinese cuisine, Mexican feasts and classic Texan barbecues.
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