Big hair. Big hats. Big open spaces. Big attitude. It's been said that everything's bigger in Texas and in many ways, the state lives up to its “big” reputation. From imposing landmarks to wide blue sky horizons, it's a truly larger-than-life state and should be at the top of everyone's vacation list. But there's much more to Texas than its size. The Lone Star State is a vibrant exciting destination with a culture built by passionate people who value their tradition and celebrate bold lifestyles. And this shows in proud historical monuments like the Alamo and the wild beauty of the numerous state parks. From art galleries and museums to heart-pounding thrill rides and world-class cuisine, the experiences are as vast as the land. Three destinations showcase this great state and are top of our must-travel list. We start with two dynamic sister cities, San Antonio and Austin, that are as different and independent as two siblings can be, yet still very Texan and welcoming. Their refreshing cousin town, Marble Falls, is just off the beaten path, offering a warm taste of country travel. Check out why locals say everything's bigger AND better in Texas!LOCATION: San Antonio The city has been waiting for you all its life! Steeped in history and strong Texas pride, San Antonio is a vivacious metropolis and a top vacation destination. Keep your phone ready for insta-worthy snaps at every turn, starting at the River Walk, the urban river situated at the center of the cityscape. Family-friendly activities such as museums, historical landmarks, and shopping are all accessible and sure to bring a smile. Or get inspired by the colorful galleries, street art and theatre. Just outside the city, theme parks and water parks attract all ages looking for an adrenaline rush. Basketball fans can cheer on the hometown team and nature-lovers catch outdoor adventures like biking, fishing, geocaching and horseback riding. Find the best local BBQ or a sit down to an overflowing taco platter while tapping your toe to live music. You'll fall in love with the energy of a San Antonio vacay. Ready for a Texa-llent vacay?STAY: Club Wyndham La Cascada SEE AVAILABILITY Location, location, location! For southern hospitality in the heart of San Antonio, Club Wyndham La Cascada presents Texas charm vacation-style. You'll stay along the famous River Walk, lifeblood of the city, teeming with activities all within walking distance. Choose from prime access to museums, theme parks and shopping by day and riverbank dining, theatre shows and clubbing by night.Plan your itinerary from the resort's rooftop sun deck, high above the city from the sparkling pool and soothing hot tubs. Your group will find plenty of playtime at the resort in the game room and with the organized resort activities. Each stunning one- or two-bedroom suite is decorated in the cozy Mission-style and can sleep four to six guests. Private living spaces offer spacious comfort for everyone. After a day in the city, prepare a home-cooked healthy meal in the full kitchen with dining area, and freshen your laundry in the washer/dryer. The bubbly whirlpool tub is a welcoming in-suite extra for ultimate relaxation. With Texas-sized views and San Antonio adventure at your doorstep, your urban getaway will be epic! Insider Tip: City parking for Club Wyndham La Cascada is available in the on-site garage. Check ahead about cost and availability. TO DO: Alamo The most iconic landmark of San Antonio is the Alamo, the centerpiece of some of the most storied events in Texas history. It was at this fort that the people of Texas fought a brave losing battle for independence they never forgot. The phrase “Remember the Alamo” empowered Texans to persevere. With this revolutionary zest, the tribute has been open to the public for walking tours and exhibits. Visit the Alamo Church for a glimpse at the area's early days. The Ralston Family Collections Center brings a gallery of over 500 artifacts and fascinating historic displays to immerse yourself in the story. Demonstrations of leather working, medicinal practices and firearm care by living historians in period attire show how Texans lived during this era. A highlight is the in-depth musket-firing presentation, where you can experience the sounds and smells of the Battle of Alamo. You'll leave this icon feeling the true spirit and pride of Texas.Insider Tip: Admission to the Alamo is free, but a reservation is recommended. Visit during the winter holidays to experience the Alamo Lights, where the attraction is illuminated with thousands of glimmering lights and surprise displays. TO DO: River Walk The people of San Antonio don't just walk, they “river walk.” This renowned15-mile stretch of the San Antonio River runs through the middle of the city and is the epicenter of all the happening activity. The ideal way to get around the River Walk is by water cruise, where you can people-watch while floating along in style. There are miles of walkways along the river's edge and cycling trails through the nature areas. Waterfront activities abound including the Rivercenter Mall, an enormous shopping and entertainment center. Catch a movie in the famed Aztec Theatre or an open-air performance at the Arneson River Theatre. In the Museum Reach section of the Riverwalk, visit the Witte Museum or the San Antonio Museum of Art. A distinctive treat of this area is the culinary scene made special with outdoor dining and unmatched river views.Insider Tip: The River Walk hosts fantastic boat parades and waterfront celebrations such as Ford Holiday River Parade after Thanksgiving and the Confucius Wishing Lanterns for the Chinese New Year. Check for the latest events in season. TO DO: Theme Parks Six Flags Fiesta Texas SeaWorld San Antonio Schlitterbahn Waterpark Buckle up for San Antonio thrills in the area's numerous theme parks. Six Flags Fiesta Texas is home to some of the tallest and fastest rides in the state. Hold on for high-speed twists and turns of Poltergeist, Goliath and BATMAN™: The Ride and many more. Go with the flow on a water attraction or slow it down on a kid-friendly mild ride with smiles for everyone! Travelers looking to make waves will check out SeaWorld San Antonio and appreciate the light-hearted mix of ocean-themed attractions and theme park rides. Spend time learning about sea creatures and making friends with dolphins. From the pulse-racing Steel Eel to the splashy Rio Loco, catch marine-inspired rollercoaster rides for fast and furious fun. Cool off from the Texas heat in an aquatic park that's all wet! Adults and kids visit Schlitterbahn Waterpark for the serenity of the endless Kristal River and the bouncing wave pools. With so many plunging waterslides like the Raging River Tube Chute, you'll lose count! From adrenaline-charged drops to epic splashes, get ready for maximum family memories. Insider Tip: Theme park guests often find that weekday visits are less busy than those on the weekend. DINE: 2M Smokehouse It's a carnivore's paradise! A hometown eatery with a lot of heart, 2M Smokehouse prides itself on its slow-roasted BBQ menu that's worth waiting for. Foodies will note the two-time James Beard Award-winning brisket, pulled pork and ribs. With line-out-the-door popularity, the meat is so in-demand that it's served by the pound and available in tacos or sandwiches, paired with mouthwatering sides like Chicharoni Macaroni. Good food comes to those who wait! Insider Tip: Check with 2M Smokehouse for unconventional hours of operation, which are generally Thursday - Sunday, 11AM-4PM. NIGHTLIFE: The Esquire Tavern A beloved Riverwalk classic, the Esquire Tavern serves a litany of libations with a side of San Antonio lore. Upstairs, you'll feel that you've stepped back to the Prohibition era which spawned the establishment. The walls seem to tell tales of a bygone time when colorful characters, and a rumored ghostly friend, stopped by for good company and a stiff drink served on the longest wooden bar in Texas. Downstairs, the studded leather seating and sultry lighting set the stage for intimate conversations and distinct cocktails. Choose from the sweet Esquire's Boulevardier, the fruit-themed Cowboy Tears or a select craft beer. Excellent menu choices start with a kicky throwback appetizer of deviled eggs and followed by a crisp signature Tavern Chicken Sandwich or actual Bison Burger. You'll feel like a regular after your first visit! Insider Tip: The Esquire Tavern opened in 1933 in celebration of the end of prohibition. Much of the ambience of the speakeasy was designed to give a sense of frozen in the time of this pivotal era. SHOP: Historic Market Square Shopping is a “must” on vacay, and at Historic Market Square you'll find bargain-hunting a whole experience. Designed in the spirit of a public market, the colorful decor and cultural influences speak to the heritage of the Southwest and Mexico. Splurge at traditional retail stores or discover a new favorite local shop. Around every corner you'll find an artisan working on a specialty craft or live entertainment that will make you smile. High-spirited dancing and mariachi bands are mainstays at the Mercado. Food courts and multicultural local eateries feature Tex-Mex and other local bites. A great deal-finding adventure for the shop-a-holic!MORE WAYS TO EXPLORE SAN ANTONIO: San Antonio Zoo: Get wild and encounter exotic animals up close! From gibbons to okapi, salamanders to kangaroos, marvel at creatures big and small in their habitat. Tower of the Americas: Scan the city from the observation deck, dine in the award-winning restaurant or learn the history of the six flags in one of the more recognizable landmarks of the city skyline. Frost Bank Center: Grab a seat at tip-off and cheer on five-time champs, the San Antonio Spurs, in NBA action. The DoSeum - San Antonio's Museum for Kids: From Innovation Station to Force Course, the hands-on educational experiences are so fun that learning feels like playtime! Pico de Gallo: Feast on an authentic Mexican meal from breakfast through after-dinner drinks featuring savory gorditas, parilladas and, of course, pico de gallo. Cowboys Dancehall: Bring your boots and go clubbing Texas-style in a good-time honky-tonk with cold drinks, theme nights and dance lessons. The Shops at Rivercenter: Big time retail therapy includes fashions from all the trendy brands all in one place for a shopper's dream day out. LOCATION: Austin Whoever said that the fun never ends in Austin, must have been in the know as we keep finding more ways to love this city. With its unconventional feel and diverse personalities, Austin has become a place where all can feel welcome and everyone belongs. Maybe that's why the city motto is “Keep Austin Weird.” Here the differences and quirks between people are celebrated, creating a new culture all its own. Austin holds to its roots of hometown barbecue, cowboy boots and country music, but embraces much more. Often called the “Live music capital of the world,” the heart of Austin life beats to renowned music venues, casual shows, celebrated festivals and musicians of all genres. Art is a big part of everyday life as seen in outdoor graffiti neighborhoods. A walkable city, you can visit a museum, the university campus, a city park and farmer's market all in one day. Dining options are unlimited from food trucks to upscale restaurants serving world-renowned signature Tex-Mex to global cuisine. The party keeps going into the wee hours with nightlife options as diverse as the people themselves including trendy dive bars, comedy clubs, cigar lounges and saloons. Between the eccentric mix of lifestyles and friendly faces, this city is a vibe! Find out why Austin is not only weird, but also wonderful!STAY: Club Wyndham Austin SEE AVAILABILITY Nestled in the heart of downtown, Club Wyndham Austin is one of the newest properties in the area, designed with contemporary styling and playful decor. The resort takes its cue from the city itself with plenty of Austin “weird” touches throughout. From the wagon wheel details of the coffee tables to the offbeat textile patterns to lighthearted murals, you'll find whimsy around every corner.The fun theme continues in the resort-style amenities including a game room, fitness center and artificial turf chill-out lounge. The star of the resort is the rooftop area presenting sweeping views of the Colorado River, Lady Lake and the cityscape from the first glimmer of sunrise to the twinkle of nighttime stars. Pull up a lounger and spend the day at the zero-edge infinity pool high above the city. Your home-cooked BBQ dinner can be prepared on the rooftop grill and served to your group at the outdoor dining table. Snuggle by the ultramodern fire pit and gaze out at the gleaming city. The resort suites are surprisingly spacious and follow the quirky decor motif. Choose from studio, one- or two-bedroom suites in colorful furnishings. Each unit is equipped with a full kitchen plus appliances and a washer/dryer offering a home-like feel. Ask for a patio or balcony suite and you may be waking up to a stunning city view each day of your stay. Insider Tip: Parking is available in the on-site garage. Check about cost and availability. TO DO: TEXAS CAPITOL History buffs feeling patriotic will be sure to put a visit to the Texas Capitol on their itinerary. This National Historic Landmark is a great way to learn about Texas past and legislature. Of course, like everything in Texas, it's also bigger! The Texas Capitol is the largest state capitol and boasts a height approximately 15 feet taller than the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C. Take a guided or self-guided tour of the historic courtrooms, legislative chambers, library and rotunda. Dine at the Capitol Grill, stroll the Capitol Grounds and view the displays such as the Medal of Honor Exhibit. From walnut carved desks to brass chandeliers, the stately decor and distinguished grandeur reflect the strong pride of Texas. A full day tour includes The Bullock Museum, Governor's Mansion and Texas State Cemetery.Insider Tip: Capitol Tours are free. Call ahead to reserve a tour of more than ten people. TO DO: Zilker Metropolitan Park Get in touch with nature in the middle of a bustling city! The Zilker Metropolitan Park is an expanse of 350+ acres of recreation out in nature. Explore the network of scenic trails, zipping through the landscape on skateboard, bike or rollerblades. The challenging 18-hole disc golf course is a perfect introduction to the sport popular in the Austin area. Kids will love the oversized playground and running around the green open spaces taking a break for a picnic lunch. Lady Bird Lake borders the park and offers boat, canoe and paddle board rental for adventurous guests. At the park's award-winning Zilker Hillside Theater, take in an open-air theatrical production, or immerse yourself in the fragrant flower beds and rushing waterfalls of Zilker Botanical Garden. A brisk swim in the natural spring-fed Barton Springs Pool is a delightful way to spend an afternoon where, through the towering trees, you'll spy the most unique views of the Austin skyline. Insider Tip: The Great Lawn area hosts a variety of events throughout the year. Some favorites are the ABC Kite Festival in April, The Austin City Limits Music Festival in October and the Trail of Lights during the holidays. TO DO: Congress Avenue Bat WatchingMore Info Yes, you read it right and no, it's not Halloween. In the 1980s, Austin found itself to be migratory home to the largest urban bat population in North America and the city has embraced it. Over a million Mexican free-tailed bats spend their days in the trails and under the Congress Avenue Bridge in downtown. When the sun sets, the bats emerge, taking an extraordinary nightly flight in a must-see spectacle. The best viewing areas are from the Butler Hike and Bike Trail, the grassy hill nearby or on the bridge itself. Some viewers take a boat cruise, a kayak tour or rent a paddle board on Lady Lake to see the flight. Bat viewing season is from March to October, when they migrate to Mexico for the winter. It's the bucket list experience you never knew you needed! Insider Tip: Go batty! Plan your visit to Austin for mid-August and celebrate Bat Fest with live music, activities, food and even a bat costume contest. DINE: Jeffrey's Treat yourself to the pinnacle of fine dining, right here in Austin! Vacationers looking for an elegant evening out and impeccable service will step out to Jeffrey's, a sophisticated, yet approachable neighborhood establishment. Exceptional meals can start out with a selection of rich caviar service which sets the tone. The signature lobster bisque is a robust next course, followed by a mouthwatering entrée of petit tenderloin filet topped with béarnaise sauce. Indulge in tempting dessert choices from the decadent chocolate soufflé to the iconic baked Alaska. You'll be talking about this meal for years! NIGHTLIFE: Broken Spoke If you had just one night in Austin, a surefire late-night hotspot to experience is the Broken Spoke. Dubbed “The Last of the True Texas Dancehalls,” this establishment brings quintessential Texas in the form of food, entertainment and fun! For over 50 years, it's been the place to go for live music, two-step lessons and authentic cowboy atmosphere. Visited by all the big names in country music, you're likely to see a legend while enjoying the “Best Chicken-fried Steak in Town.” Recently named a Texas historic monument, this crowd-pleasing honky-tonk promises a good time dancing the night away to the days in Austin's past where country was king. SHOP: 2nd Street District Locals know the best places to be and 2nd Street District is a much-visited neighborhood for contemporary shopping. Populated with well-known brands alongside local merchants and artisans, this one-of-a-kind district offers a plethora of shopping delights. Add a new piece to your wardrobe, find unique furniture for the living room or discover a special crafty souvenir to take home. Newly designed with a modern feel, 2nd Street has expanded into an entertainment area hosting a variety of trendy restaurants and venues for live music throughout the year.MORE WAYS TO EXPLORE AUSTIN: Museum of the Weird: Celebrate weirdness in fun oddities, bizarre tales and unexplained phenomena showcased in family-friendly exhibits sure to entertain. University of Texas: On the vast educational campus, explore the Blanton Museum, admire the LBJ Presidential Library, marvel at The Tower or cheer on the Longhorns' athletic teams. Mount Bonnell: Take a hike up one of the most visited spots in Austin. The city's tallest peak presents magnificent 360-degree views of the skyline and is the ideal place for unforgettable panoramic selfies. Circuit of the Americas: Get your motor running! Racing enthusiasts will love the thrill of cheering on their favorite motorsports from NASCAR to Formula 1 to MotoGP. Matt's El Rancho: Craving authentic Tex-Mex made from scratch? Satisfy your culinary curiosity with tangy grilled flauta, savory beef chile rellenos or seared carne asada, and then fight over the leftovers. Continental Club: This sleek late-night music venue couples a rich history of top live shows from country to blues, swing to rock and roll with a heavy dose of style. Allen's Boots: It's practically a rite of passage in Austin to shop for your first pair of cowboy boots. Western toe or square toe, bootie-style or classic shaft, you'll find the perfect pair and leave the store ready for two-steppin'! LOCATION: Marble Falls City slickers, get ready for a change of pace! Explore the town of Marble Falls, a lively rural community overlooking the Colorado River in Texas Hill Country. A hidden gem, the town is quickly becoming a sought-after destination as a calming escape with outdoorsy adventures.The highlight of the Marble Falls area is its access to all things country including numerous state parks, hilly natural wonders and active water sports. Adventurers come for the off-roading, rock climbing, mountain biking and cliff diving. The scenic drive up Park Road 4 will fill your phone with colorful shots of the famed wildflower fields.Visit the downtown area, where you'll find friendly spots from offbeat art galleries or engaging museum choices. Specialty boutiques and gift shops feature local craftsmanship and treasures. Proud independent eateries offer quality options from Tex-Mex staples to international cuisine. Have a rollicking good time at the numerous micro-breweries or enjoy a picnic lunch and wine tasting at a private vineyard. In this eclectic mix of town and country, you might just discover a new favorite vacation!STAY: WorldMark Marble Falls SEE AVAILABILITY Sit back for the most serene views of the Texas landscape! Welcome to the Hill Country and your vacation home away from home at WorldMark Marble Falls. Perfectly positioned between the countryside and urban activity, the resort sits on the banks of Lake Marble Falls boasting stunning scenes of the water and a peaceful horizon. Water sports are steps away and will have your group fishing, boating, kayaking and even paddle boarding. Golfers can book a round nearby and hikers can explore the winding trails around the lake. Take the short drive to downtown Marble Falls for an astounding choice of activities from museums and art galleries to shopping and first-rate dining.The resort itself embraces a modern look with an emphasis on comfort and convenience. Even the amenities have a view, as you can enjoy the scenes from the refreshing pool and relaxing hot tubs. Make your own Texas BBQ at the grill and picnic area or roast marshmallows over the fire pit. Your roomy suite includes large spaces for spending time together and private areas for alone time. Groups will be comfortable in units that sleep from four to ten people, and include full kitchens for a family-style meal together. Most suites offer a washer/dryer and a fireplace for snuggling under a blanket. When you catch the lake view from your balcony during majestic Texas sunset, you'll be planning your return trip! Insider Tip: Limited elevators are available at the resort. Call ahead to inquire about accessibility. TO DO: Hidden Falls Adventure Park Get on board with some motorized adventure! At Hidden Falls Adventure Park, get pumped to take a wild dirt-splattered ATV/UTV or motorbike ride through the great outdoors. Rent a vehicle or bring your own ride to scale WildCat Mountain or Green Loop with various levels of difficulty from the beginner to the expert. Use the digital trail maps and test your rig over steep ledges, tight turns and demanding climbs. Your reward is the spectacular view of the peaceful Hill Country landscape. The park's RC car racing and trap shooting events are even more reasons to spend time on the gorgeous nature trails. Sometimes the roughest roads are the most fun!Insider Tip: Enjoy late night wheeling on Friday and Saturday nights until midnight! TO DO: Science Mill A top spot for family time is the Science Mill, an interactive STEM playground. Spend the day at state-of-the-art hands-on stations to explore and learn about our world together. Curious visitors delve into over 50 exhibits including the aquaponics greenhouse of an animal/plant ecosystem and the virtual body table in 3D. Kids and adults alike can excavate in the fossil dig, explore the ocean floor with a deep sea drone and use water electrolysis to create an explosion. Everyone will have a blast - literally!Insider Tip: Guests may bring a picnic meal to the Science Mill and enjoy it at the outdoor Science and Art Park which houses fascinating interactive displays from the Colossal Robotic Hand to the Labyrinth. TO DO: Exotic Resort Zoo Go where the wild things are! A visit to the family-owned Exotic Resort Zoo is sure to bring out the curious nature in everyone, especially animal-lovers. Book a guided tour and enjoy off-road access to the free-roaming creatures. In your own vehicle, join the drive-through safari where you can greet familiar favorites like zebras and ostriches. The Petting Zoo area is an up-close interactive experience of playing with and feeding antelopes, sheep and more! You may even meet a newborn animal being introduced to the world. Your group will love making some new “beast” friends!Insider Tip: The zoo offers specialty wildlife feed for purchase that can be used on Safaris or the Petting Zoo. Note: Because of the nature of animal interaction, no dogs are permitted to visit the Exotic Resort Zoo. DINE: The Real New Orleans Style Restaurant The Real New Orleans Style Restaurant is an infusion of cultures in a foodie's dream! Come in hungry for hearty “Where Cajun Meets Country” fare. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner with a full menu that includes classics like shrimp and grits, red beans and rice and fried okra. An array of flavorful poboy sandwiches from oyster to BBQ smoked sausage are whipped up along with sides of cabbage and cornbread. Entrees are served with an extra twist like the deconstructed jambalaya and crawfish étouffée. You'll love this taste of New Orleans in the Hill Country! NIGHTLIFE: Bear King Brewery Pull up a bar stool and sit a spell for some unforgettable beer with a side of good company. At Bear King Brewery, camaraderie is an essential ingredient in all its home brews. It starts with the centuries-old legend of the mysterious Marble Falls Bear King which gives the establishment its name. Plan to spend time learning about the artistry in a place that is clearly passionate about its craft. Each selection has its own backstory from the Cowboy Time - Vienna Lager to the Lady Gigi - Hazy IPA, and the inspirational only enhances the delicious taste. While the beer is the star of the show, the elevated bar-type menu is a close second. The solid choices of appetizer, salad and sandwich options coupled with an array of tacos and specialty burgers are made well and accompany the brew selections perfectly. Good eats, incredible stories and even better beer!Insider Tip: Order beer and support a good cause - check the menu to see which brew contributes to the Ready Room Project, benefitting children of military personnel. SHOP: Shop at Old Oak Square In the Marble Falls historic downtown area, get your shopping on. Built around the legendary old oak tree, the shopping center is a much-visited spot for locals and travelers. Get great deals in the brand name stores and one-of-a-kind souvenirs in the gift shops. You'll find treasures amid the places selling accessories, wellness items and sweet treats. Walk the aisles of the cute clothing boutiques to the beat of live music presentations and grab a coffee while you shop.MORE WAYS TO EXPLORE MARBLE FALLS: Fort Croghan Grounds & Museum: Once a line of forts protecting the frontier, the pioneer community now displays preserved cabins and buildings including the blacksmith shop and museum from the 1850s. Harmony Park: Step to the beat of your own music at this outdoor free-note musical sculpture where you tap the chimes, thump the marimba and jingle the bells in a Main Street melody. Ink's Lake State Park: It's an action-packed outdoor paradise filled with paddle boarding, kayaking, fishing, and even cliff jumping near waterfalls! Before I Die Wall: Feel what it's like to be a part of a thought-provoking global art project with a poignant message and reflection on life. Blue Bonnet Cafe: This neighborhood eatery serves up smiles along with all-day breakfast to homemade pies and all the down-home diner dishes in between. Flat Creek Estate Winery: The 80-acre vineyard invites you to sample their unique portfolio of artisanal Texan wine selections from deep red to crisp white, and even try your hand at disc golf on the estate course. The Domain: Get all your shopping done in one place from that hard-to-find birthday gift to the garment that just fits your style, then take in a movie or a quick bite to eat! Travel destinations don't get much bigger than San Antonio, Austin, and Marble Falls for family vacays and group travel. When it comes time for fun, 'don't mess with Texas!'
