The Lone Star State is undoubtedly one of the best regions for keen road trippers to explore thanks to its wide open roads, exciting attractions, and, of course, some of the sweetest people you will ever meet. If you’re planning to explore Texas by car, here are some tips to make it the best road trip yet.
Map Your Route Like a Local
Forget following the interstate for hundreds of miles. Instead, plot a course that threads through small towns and state highways. Start in El Paso for a sunrise view over the Franklin Mountains, then head east toward Marfa to hunt down mysterious lights under glittering skies. Continue on US-90 toward Alpine, then venture south to Marathon and Big Bend National Park. If you need creature comforts along the coast, Rockport RV Park offers shaded sites near the bay for a relaxing pit stop.
Fuel Up at Roadside Joints
Texans take their food seriously, so steering clear of chain restaurants is a rookie mistake on your road trip. Instead, look for tiny diners with picnic tables outside. Order breakfast tacos in San Antonio at a hole-in-the-wall taqueria, then try kolaches in West at a Czech bakery that feels like stepping into your grandma’s kitchen. When you cross into East Texas, snag a plate of chicken fried steak and grab sweet tea on the porch of a country café. Your stomach will thank you, and you’ll collect stories that no franchise could ever sell.
Camp Under the Stars
Texas nights can be gloriously clear, turning any campground into a planetarium. Pack a simple tent or park your RV in a scenic state park like Guadalupe Mountains. If you’re chasing coastal breezes, set up at Rockport RV Park and listen for the gentle lap of waves. Remember a sturdy tarp, extra stakes and a reliable lantern. No one wants to discover they left the tent poles back home after the sun goes down, and flipping through a head torch while mosquitoes buzz is nobody’s idea of fun.
Crank Up the Local Tunes
Your playlist should be as diverse as the terrain. Really amp up those Texas vibes to make the most out of the experience! Load up on classic country from Willie Nelson and Patsy Cline, mix in blues from Lightnin’ Hopkins, then toss in some Tejano flair with Selena. At roadside radio stations you might stumble on amateur bluegrass performances or up-and-coming Texas rock bands. Roll down the windows, let the breeze carry the music, and feel like you’re part of a live concert on wheels.
Respect the Weather
Texas weather can switch from sunny and calm to windy dust storms or surprise showers in a heartbeat. Pack layers, sunscreen, and sturdy walking shoes to stay prepared for any shifts. If a summer thunderstorm appears, pull off the road at a covered pavilion or local café and wait it out over a slice of pecan pie. Use weather apps to monitor forecasts, and plan outdoor activities for early morning or late afternoon to avoid peak sun hours.
Capture the Quirky Charm
Texas is packed with larger-than-life murals, eccentric museums and roadside oddities. Pose next to the giant cowboy boots in Galveston, bow to the world’s largest praline furnace in New Iberia, or snap a selfie beside the giant metal guitar in Austin. Keep a small journal of your favorite discoveries, and share coordinates with fellow travelers. In Texas, the strangest sights often become the best stories.
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Here’s to a trip packed with Lone Star spirit!
Photo by Delaney Van on Unsplash
