Creating a bucket list can be a rather daunting task. Especially in a state as huge as ours – if you’re like me and want to see and do everything, narrowing down all the noteworthy aspects of Texas seems just short of impossible. But after plenty of research, I was able to reign in my adventurous spirit and objectively (somewhat, anyway) put together a list of the things you absolutely have to do in Texas before you, uh, kick the bucket, so to speak. By no means is this an all-encompassing list – obviously I could write a book about all the attractions Texas has to offer – but these are the most obligatory. So without further ado, here is a bucket list all things Texas.
1. Knock out your whole bucket list in one fell swoop - take a road trip!
Map out a path that'll take you all over the state to every destination on your list. Or maybe make this an event of its own and just drive with no particular destination in mind. No matter your intention, the roads of Texas will never cease to amaze you.
As well as the plethora of beauty above ground, Texas has equally as much breathtaking scenery below the surface as well. Pictured here is the Natural Bridge Caverns in New Braunfels.
With our rich history, it's no surprise that we have an abundance of haunted establishments here in Texas. Here, you'll meet "The Lovelorn Lady" who haunts the hotel's halls after hanging herself in room 505 upon hearing of her husband's death at sea. Are you brave enough to face her?
There's always something new to see in Texas. From the Lost Maples State Natural Area to the Palo Duro Canyon, make it a point to traverse the trails of our state and discover wonders you've never seen before while you still can.
6. Attend a music festival - in the live music capital of the WORLD!
We can all (some of us reluctantly) agree that Austin is the place to be for good music. Two huge festivals, South by Southwest and Austin City Limits happen here in early spring and late summer, respectively.
We've got plenty of 'em, from this infamous pair of legs to see-through bathrooms in the middle of the street (don't worry, they don't work both ways!).
And by small, I mean everyone-knows-everyone's-last names-and-life-stories-and-possibly-bank-account-number small. Seriously though, the southern charm that already exists throughout the state is amplified tenfold in small towns. Better make this one a priority on your bucket list before they start getting overcrowded! (I'm looking at you, Luckenbach.)
10. You knew this was coming...but how could I leave out Hamilton Pool and Jacob's Well? They're kinda obligatory.
At one of our four Schlitterbahns in the state, you'll find ample opportunity to challenge your fears. Don't those two white slides look so inviting? (I've done them, and let me just say one thing - if you enjoy not being able to see your feet when you're laying at the top awaiting your plunge, be my guest.)
After you explore the Natural Bridge Caverns, its sister attraction, called the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, is right next door! Disclaimer: you may encounter a few very friendly (or hungry) ostriches trying to stick their heads in your window. Do not fear. They only want the food pellets that are provided to your at the beginning of your journey. (Or maybe that's what they want you to think.)
13. Spend a night of your travels under...uh...interesting circumstances.
You'll find only 3 other motels like this one in the entire United States! Don't worry, it's been refurbished with modern amenities since its construction in 1942. If you've ever been curious as to how Native Americans lived, here's your chance.
14. Treat your taste buds to some of the best barbecue they'll ever experience.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.