Texas Travelogue
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Travelogues
By Tom Kirvan
Lone Star State offers a vast land of varied opportunities
Texas, the second-largest state in the United States by both area and population, is a land of vast horizons, rich history, and cultural diversity. With a population of more than 30 million people, the Lone Star State offers a unique blend of modern urban centers, historic landmarks, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether you're drawn by its cowboy culture, Tex-Mex cuisine, or sprawling deserts and farmlands, Texas promises an unforgettable journey in the American Southwest.
Spanning across 268,000 square miles, Texas features a variety of geographical landscapes, from rolling plains and piney forests in the east to arid deserts in the west. The state is bordered by Louisiana to the east, New Mexico to the west, Oklahoma to the north, Arkansas to the northeast, and Mexico to the south. The Gulf of Mexico lies along its southeastern border, offering miles of scenic coastline.
The capital city, Austin, is a hub of creativity and innovation. Known as the "Live Music Capital of the World," Austin boasts a vibrant music scene, world-class restaurants, and picturesque outdoor spaces like Lady Bird Lake. It’s also home to the Texas State Capitol, an architectural marvel and one of the largest state capitols in the U.S.
Located in the Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Guadalupe Peak rises to an elevation of 8,751 feet, making it the highest point in Texas. Known as the "Top of Texas," the peak offers breathtaking views of rugged cliffs, desert scenes, and distant horizons. The hike to the summit is a bucket-list experience for outdoor enthusiasts, blending challenging terrain with unparalleled vistas.
Texas has a fascinating history that reflects its unique identity. Originally inhabited by Native American tribes, the area became part of Spanish and later Mexican territories. In 1836, Texas declared its independence from Mexico and briefly existed as the Republic of Texas before joining the United States in 1845.
The battle cry "Remember the Alamo" became a rallying point during the Texas Revolution, symbolizing the state's enduring spirit. The state’s history also includes its role as a key player in the cattle ranching industry, giving rise to the iconic cowboy culture celebrated in rodeos and western films.
During the oil boom of the early 20th century, Texas became synonymous with black gold, transforming cities like Houston and Dallas into economic powerhouses. Today, the state continues to thrive as a leader in energy production, technology, and aerospace.
Texas is also a land of festivals, with events like the Houston Rodeo, the State Fair of Texas in Dallas, and South by Southwest (SXSW) in Austin attracting visitors from around the globe.
Top 5 Must-See Tourist Destinations
- The Alamo: Located in the heart of San Antonio, the Alamo is a symbol of Texan independence and resilience. This historic mission was the site of the famous 1836 battle where a small group of Texans fought against the Mexican army. Today, it stands as a museum and a reminder of Texas' struggle for independence.
- Big Bend National Park: Covering more than 800,000 acres in West Texas, Big Bend National Park is a natural wonderland of desert, mountains, and rivers. Visitors can explore the rugged beauty of the Chisos Mountains, hike through canyons, and paddle along the Rio Grande, which forms the border with Mexico. The park is also a dark-sky preserve, offering spectacular stargazing opportunities.
Fast Facts
Capital: Austin
Population: 30 million
Economic engines: Oil, technology, and space exploration
Must-see Attraction: The Alamo in San Antonio
Primerus Members:
- Donato, Brown, Pool & Moehlmann PLLC, PDI
(Houston, Texas, U.S.) - Downs & Stanford, P.C., PDI
(Dallas, Texas, U.S.) - Moses, Palmer & Howell, L.L.P., PBLI
(Fort Worth, Texas, U.S.) - Stephenson Fournier, PBLI
(Houston, Texas, U.S.) - Thornton, Biechlin, Reynolds & Guerra, L.C., PDI
(McAllen, Texas, U.S.) - Thornton, Biechlin, Reynolds & Guerra, L.C., PDI
(San Antonio, Texas, U.S.)
- Houston Space Center: For science and space enthusiasts, the Houston Space Center is a must-visit. As the official visitor center for NASA's Johnson Space Center, it offers an immersive look into space exploration, including exhibits on lunar missions and interactive displays. Don’t miss the chance to see the historic Mission Control Center.
- Palo Duro Canyon: Known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," Palo Duro Canyon is the second-largest canyon in the United States. Located near Amarillo, this stunning landscape features colorful rock formations, hiking trails, and opportunities for horseback riding. The outdoor musical drama "Texas" is performed in the canyon’s amphitheater and is a cultural highlight.
- South Padre Island: For sun-seekers and beach lovers, South Padre Island is a tropical paradise. Located on the Gulf Coast, it offers pristine beaches, water sports, and vibrant nightlife. The island is also a haven for wildlife, with opportunities to see dolphins, sea turtles, and migratory birds.