Texas Culture 101: What Are Some of the Best Cultural Destinations in Texas?

Texas is a beautiful state, and far from the flat, barren images seen in history books and John Wayne films. It is a state with a variety of culture, and for those looking for places to vacation, the best would be to hit the hot areas that offer both sides: rural and city life. Some suggestions include:

1) Austin and its surrounds: As the State Capital, Austin is a thriving place of culture. Depending on what time of year you plan to visit, music, film and book festivals regularly fill the calendars. Not to mention the Hill Country, located nearby, offers a lush escape into a greener, peaceful life, away from the thriving city. There are many State and National parks located in the Austin area, notably Longhorn Cavern State Park, LBJ State and National Parks, Enchanted Rock, Inks Lake, among others. Austin also offers Lake Travis where you can swim and boat. And not too far is the scenic town of Fredericksburg, known for its German influence, peaches, many art galleries, and of course, their wineries. (It is also the #2 Wine Region in the U.S.)

2) Big Bend National and State Park: this is a great place to go when you just want to disappear. The nature coupled with the small surrounding towns make this trip a must visit. And lets not forget the Rio Grande!

3) Dallas/Fort Worth area: Dallas/Fort Worth is a great place to visit if you're into the city life, and feel like shopping, eating and diving into culture. The cities offer art museums, symphonies, and various festivals throughout the year. Though it's not recommended for anyone wishing to escape into the quiet, however. Dallas is a great getaway when you feel like dipping into the hustle and bustle of things, and tolerating traffic.

4) South Padre Island: this is a good place to visit if you're looking for a beach and just want to relax. Though it's important to mind the time of year you plan to visit, given that this is the place where college kids like to crash after their semester ends.

5) San Antonio: If you're already planning to visit Austin, San Antonio is not that far. The city offers the Alamo and is rich with Texas history. Many enjoy the Riverwalk and feel that the scenery alone is what makes the trip worthwhile. One can easily plan to hit both Austin and San Antonio in a single trip.

6) Galveston Island/Houston area: If you're planning on heading to the Houston area, another reason to go is for Galveston Island. Houston offers Space Center Houston (NASA), the Botanic Garden, the aquarium, Houston Zoo, and museums. Though finding a nice place to stay on Galveston Island makes the trip more rewarding and fun-offering both the historical and nature side to the state.

Also, some stops at the State and National Parks is a must, and great book that offers insight on what places to visit is Official Guide To Texas State Parks And Historic Sites by Laurence Parent. The book gives the rundown on all aspects of the state, from hills to highways, and the book is a must have for anyone planning on visiting the natural parts of Texas.If you're asking me where the best place to vacation is, Austin has it all. Alive both in city culture as well as the rustic, rural terrains, the city provides opportunities for mingling and for escape. Texas people always joke about how many small towns there are within this enormous state, and how literally one can live in it his or her entire life and still discover something new. Texas is actually a lush and thriving place of culture, and hopefully this article has offered some insight into where to find it.