10 Famous Texas Landmarks You Must See at Least Once in Your Lifetime

Texas is great. It’s just a simple fact. The Lone Star State is a melting pot of cultures, people, and landscapes. And whether you are visiting the furthest reaches of the remote Big Bend region, or you find yourself in the bustling metropolis that is Dallas, there is an eclectic collection of well-known landmarks all across the state. Here, we highlight 10 famous landmarks of our great state that you must see at least once in your lifetime!

1. The State Capitol—Austin, Texas

Photo: Facebook/Texas State Capitol

Situated in downtown Austin, our state’s beautiful Capitol building’s construction was completed in 1888. It became a National Historic Landmark in 1986. According to metroseeker.com, Texas’ capitol building is the second largest in the country, surpassed only by the United State’s capitol building in Washington D.C. However, when it comes to overall height, the Lone Star State’s building comes out on top with a height of 308 feet, versus the country’s at 289 feet. It’s a must-see on any tour of Texas landmarks.

2. The Alamo—San Antonio, Texas

Photo: Facebook/Nancy Lindo-Drusch 

It is difficult to think of a landmark more widely recognized than this tiny mission tucked away amongst the high-rise buildings of San Antonio. A visit to the Alamo is a chance to experience first-hand the tenacity and grit that our great state has become famous for.

3. Palo Duro Canyon—Canyon, Texas

Photo: Courtesy of MarLee Berry

Located in the Panhandle region of Texas, Palo Duro Canyon is the nation’s second largest canyon. Filled with hiking trails, native wildlife species, and historical buildings, the rugged beauty of Palo Duro has captured the hearts of adventurers across the state since becoming a state park in 1934.

4. The Cross—Groom, Texas

Photo: Facebook/Across America

The tiny town of Groom (population 565 in 2016) is home to a gargantuan monument. The Cross of Our Lord Jesus Christ is a 19-story-tall attraction located just off of Interstate 40. In addition to the cross, several bronze statues are spread out around the grounds. Visitors can stop by for a closer look anytime, day or night, as the attraction is open 24 hours per day, seven-days-a-week. Don’t miss this amazing location on your tour of Texas landmarks.

5. Big Tex—Dallas, Texas

Photo: Facebook/Big Tex

Since 1952, Big Tex has been welcoming guests to the State Fair of Texas in Dallas. For 60 years, Tex stood at a towering 52 feet, however after catching fire in 2012, he had a little work done. Today, he stands 55 feet tall and wears a size 96 boot. If you have a hankering to pay Big Tex a visit, head on down to the fair. It opens next week and runs until October 22. For a breakdown of the fair’s daily schedule, click here.

6. The Big Texan Steak Ranch and Brewery—Amarillo, Texas

Photo: Facebook/Big Texan Steak Ranch and Brewery

Once you are done hiking the trails at Palo Duro Canyon, it is only a short drive over to Amarillo, home of the Big Texan Steak Ranch and Brewery and of the 72-ounce steak. If you are especially famished, you can attempt to garner a free meal by eating the enormous steak along with all the trimmings in an hour or less. However, if you lose, the meal will cost you $72.

7. AT&T Stadium—Arlington, Texas

Photo: Facebook/Dallas Cowboys on 247Sports 

You may or may not be a Cowboys fan, but it is difficult to deny AT&T Stadium is an impressive example of architecture. Its size alone is enough to leave you speechless. A variety of tours are available for those interested in seeing more of this landmark. To buy tickets, follow this link.

8. Big Bend National Park—West Texas

Photo: Facebook/Big Bend National Park

Famous for its harsh terrain and “splendid isolation,” Big Bend National Park is the go-to getaway for those seeking to test their limits, both physically and mentally. Around this time of year, the weather at the park is beginning to turn pleasantly cool, making it a great destination for a last minute road-trip.

9. Magnolia Market at the Silos—Waco, Texas

Photo: Facebook/Moostash Joe Tours

For the past few years, Chip and Joanna Gaines have been drawing visitors to Waco with their Magnolia Market at the Silos, located in the downtown area. Joanna’s famous farmhouse-flair-with-a-modern-twist style is on display throughout the grounds. From the Bakery to the Lawn, there is something for the whole family to enjoy. However, since it is an insanely popular destination we suggest planning your visit to this landmark on a weekday to avoid the crowds.

10. Space Center—Houston, Texas

Photo: Facebook/Space Center Houston

Since the beginning of the U.S. space program, the city of Houston and more specifically the Johnson Space Center has played an integral role in space exploration. The Space Center Houston is a great place for both young and old to learn more about NASA’s space program. In fact, beginning October 11, the Apollo 11 command module will be making a stop at the center as part of the Destination Moon exhibit. To plan your trip to the center, click here.

References: Magnolia Market, Palo Duro Canyon, Big Bend National Park, Space Center Houston, Big Tex, Cross Ministries, The Big Texas Steak Ranch and Brewery