Everything’s bigger in Texas, even the small towns. And by small, we mean a population of 50,000 or less. It’s Texas, y’all! Lifestyle blogger Alice Kerley from Lone Star Looking Glass rounds up four “must-visit” small towns in Texas. Whether you’re hankering for a scenic hike, a pour of local wine or a stroll through a larger than life art installation, these Texas towns should be added to every Southerner’s bucket list.
Marfa
This tiny desert town has a reputation for being adored by celebs and A-listers alike, including one Queen Bee in particular. A three hour drive from the closest airport, Marfa is a remote location that’s worth the trek. This rural Texas town boasts fine dining and delicious and diverse food that will satiate any appetite. A Mediterranean kabab is a must from the famous Food Shark food truck that is open only Wednesdays - Saturdays.
Home to the famous Chinati Foundation, larger than life art installations are scattered all over this desert town, including the famous Prada Marfa. If you didn’t Instagram Prada Marfa, did you really go to Marfa?
Whether you prefer to rough it in a trendy teepee or relax in the same hotel room that James Dean slept in when filming Giant, Marfa caters to the traveler looking for something a little bit different.
Canyon
Sitting on the edge of America’s second-largest canyon, Canyon, Texas is a destination for outdoor enthusiasts and history buffs alike. Visitors can find themselves getting lost for hours on end in the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum. With its life-size Pioneer Town, you might even feel like you’ve stepped into an episode of West World during your visit. “Delores, are you there?”
Palo Duro Canyon State Park is one of the country’s most impressive natural attractions and it draws visitors from both near and far. Hiking, biking, bird watching and stargazing are among the park’s top rated activities. Visitors can rough it in tents or stay in one of the park’s stone cabins nestled on the rim of the canyon. Come summer time, Palo Duro Canyon State Park boasts a bigger than life “TEXAS” Outdoor Musical. Because nothing beats singing along to show tunes with a 250 million year old rock formation as your backdrop, right?
Galveston
At a little less than an hour’s drive from Houston, Galveston Island is often called “the playground of The South.” The popular tourist destination attracts families from all over with its sandy beaches, museums, amusement parks and seafood spots. You can stroll steps away from a swinging monkey in Moody Garden’s Rainforest Pyramid or fly above the sea in the Texas Star Flyer on Pleasure Pier.
Galveston also has a rich history that matches its sweet Southern charm. Colorful and ornate Victorian mansions that were once homes to buccaneers and business tycoons are scattered throughout town. Moody Mansion is on tour today, welcoming guests to stop and swoon over its architectural beauty and perfectly preserved sitting rooms and suites.
With a festival almost every weekend and a never ending list of fun things to do, there is no reason not to get on “island time” in Galveston!
Fredericksburg
Deep in the heart of Texas Hill Country lies the charming town of Fredericksburg. A quintessential American Main Street is at its center, with adorable shops, restaurants and art galleries on every corner. Dog lovers be sure to stop at Dogology, where you can pick up almost anything you can imagine for your pup, including baked dog treats that look delicious enough for you to eat too! Your precious pooch will be sure to thank you.
Foodies can also rejoice in Fredericksburg. German influenced cuisine can be found in many of restaurants, some with recipes passed down from generation to generation. A trip to Fredericksburg is not complete without a bite of traditional bratwurst! If that’s not enough to draw you in for a weekend stay, the icing on the cake to this Hill Country destination is a visit to one of the award-winning wineries and vineyards that scatter the edge of town. Becker Vineyard boasts fields of lavender with a Lavender Festival each spring.
