I Love Texas - Top 50 Things to Love About Texas
Discover > Truly Texan > I Love Texas - Top 50 Things to Love About Texas
When I was 19 years old, I found myself riding on dirt bikes across the undulating trails out in the Recreation Area in Barnwell, Texas. During this time, I had the chance to appreciate the outdoors while I was sitting down trying to fix my sprained ankle.
Despite what ended up being a short trail day with friends, it made me appreciate the different things we have in the biggest state of the United States. We have long coastal areas that are waters filled with so much bounty. Our State Parks are some of the best in the country offering windows into the lives of indigenous tribes that roamed and tended to the land centuries ago. Cuisines that span the breadth of the border are dotted with international influences from the many cultures that now call Texas home.
If you’re also a thankful Texan like me, here are 50 things in Texas that makes all of us thankful.
Top 10 Things To Love About Texas
1. Nachos
Texas Mexican or popularly known as Tex-Mex has given rise to Texas’ pride and joy: Nachos. Yes, we’re kicking off this list with the world-renowned snack classic.
Growing up, I’ve had the chance to try nachos that use recipes spanning generations. And with this fact alone, the culture of food and the people living in Texas is one of the many things that all Texans share. Man, now I want some nachos. And why I love Texas? I can pretty much get them anywhere I want to.
2. Bucket List Sunsets at the Enchanted Rock
Out in Llano, Texas is Enchanted Rock and many a-Texan like me have ventured into this expanse to wonder at the beauty of the geological formations as well as the beautiful sunset to cap the day off.
Depending on the season, the sunset at this spot is one of the most picturesque in the entire state while coupled with the eerie sounds that the rock makes is quite a trip that, honestly, has me coming back to this place.
3. All Roads Lead to Markets
If there’s one thing that Texas is known for, that would be the booming agriculture industry, especially in cattle and produce production.
Farm-to-Market roads are a huge factor when it comes to ensuring the delivery of goods [despite the skyrocketing gas prices] to community hubs where spaces are available for farmers’ markets. Because of these roads that were the result of the 1949 Colson-Brisco Act, we Texans enjoy a steady supply of organic produce.
4. Bowl of Good ‘Ol Red
Chili in all of its renditions and decades-old recipes is a Texas staple that has its own annual championship that is held at Terlingua, Texas.
People from all over the world flock to this event to either sample overflowing big bowls of red or to participate in showing their chili-making skills. I myself fancy a big bowl of red on colder days when I’m looking for a quick and hearty grab-and-go meal. Saying I love Chili is basically the same as saying I love Texas.
5. Texan Hospitality
No matter where Texans go, there’s this specific openness we have when it comes to meeting new and old acquaintances. Firm handshakes, smiles, and open arms are what greet people who meet Texans or get to visit friends and family in Texas.
But don’t let that warmth fool you, because to some of us that are a way to let people’s guards down. We ain’t just some happy hicks down here after all.
6. Lots of Family Pickup Stories
Every family has a story about their good old trusty pickup. I even have one, but that is another story for another day. Given that Texas is a widely agricultural state, pickups have been the workhorses of farming communities throughout the state.
This is why this type of vehicle has made its status as part of your average Texan family. You’ll hear stories about how an old pickup truck has become a keystone of sorts for golden memories with parents and siblings riding out in the Texas wilderness.
7. Border Towns with Mexico
One of the best things about living in Texas is that we share our borders with Mexico. Along the borders, you’ll find that it is dotted with border towns where you can cross to Mexico.
These towns have some pretty awesome food joints that you can cross the border and check out. Apart from food, you can also enjoy cultural sites that make for an educational and gastronomic experience for a great weekend trip.
8. Lots of Ranches
Texas, as everybody knows, is filled with ranches. Where the King Ranch, at 825,000 acres, is the biggest of them all. With the number of ranches, this offers both locals and visiting folks from out of State to enjoy different activities.
Some farms are homesteads that have converted a portion of their mini sustainable produce grow into a dining experience for people.
9. Food…Texan-Sized Servings of Food
Ever heard of the saying “Everything is bigger in Texas?” This is true to some extent as meal portions served in Texas seem bigger than those served in restaurants in most of the other 49 states.
The Lone Star state is also known for its delicious and hearty cuisine, from Tex-Mex to the classic Texas BBQ - I’m pretty sure this is one of the must-try destinations for all foodies out there. I, myself, love a good slow-cooked, bark-coated, juicy Prime Angus Brisket.
Brisket is undoubtly one of Texas’ comfort food, check these 22 Best Brisket Restaurants in Texas!
10. Climate is Key
Texas enjoys mild winters and warm summers (with the occasional heat wave here and there), making it the perfect place to live in. Because of the great climate, agriculture and outdoor activities can be enjoyed almost year-round.
Texas is a big state, so the weather conditions, depending on which part you're in, greatly vary throughout the year.
Top 11-20 Things To Love About The Lone Star State
11. Kick Back and Enjoy the Sights
Beautiful beaches of Galveston, rolling Texas Hill Country (wineries abound), or the different scenic hiking trails in the different State Parks throughout the state, there’s no shortage of scenic views in Texas. Truly a great place for scenic road trips or outdoorsy adventures back-dropped with nature’s glory.
12. Historic Lone Star State
Texas is rich in history, from its days as an independent republic to its role in the Civil War. There’s plenty to explore for history buffs of all ages. I highly suggest checking out the different museums that are windows into the different periods of Texas’ history.
13. Texan Nights and Good Times
Texas is a great place to enjoy a night out on the town. There are plenty of bars and clubs to choose from, and the Texas nightlife scene has something for everyone.
Texas offers nightlife experiences that are hard to forget. Whether you're looking for a lively bar scene or a quiet place to enjoy a drink, you'll find it in Texas.
14. Sports Fans Rejoice!
Texas is home to a variety of professional and collegiate sports teams. Major league teams in Texas include the Dallas Cowboys, Houston Texans, San Antonio Spurs, and Texas Rangers. The state is also home to several college sports teams, including the Texas Longhorns, Texas A&M Aggies, Baylor Bears, and Texas Tech Red Raiders - making Texas a great state for sports fans of all kinds!
15. The Great Outdoors
With its many parks and trails, Texas is the perfect place to get outside and enjoy nature. There are different adventures out there waiting for you. Whether you’re a triathlete or just looking for a quiet stroll in a forest in the middle of an urban center, Texas has you covered.
And because Texas is home to a number of national and state parks, there's a variety of outdoor recreational activities that you can try here.
16. Shopping Spots to Fill Your Totes
From high-end malls, and quaint local boutiques, to farmers’ markets filled with different crafts from local artisans, Texas has something for everyone when it comes to shopping.
17. The Festivals
Texas is home to a variety of festivals throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to arts. This is representative of how Texas is wide in terms of breadth- making it a cultural melting pot.
There's always something fun to do in Texas. Go check out the festivals, and experience the unique atmosphere that you can find only here in the Lone Star state. Don’t forget to check out our Texas Events pages to easily find a festival or food event near you.
18. The Architecture
From Spanish missions to Victorian homes, the architecture in Texas is as diverse as its people. These buildings which are a testament to the rich history of the Lone Star State can be found just about everywhere. I suggest driving up to a ghost town. A great place to think.
19. The Economy
Texas boasts a thriving economy, with plenty of opportunities for businesses and workers alike. This is because of how big the state is and there’s an abundance of opportunities for anyone who wants to strike it big in Texas.
20. The Healthcare
With some of the best hospitals in the country, Texans can rest assured that they’ll receive quality healthcare when they need it.
Established healthcare institutions like Houston Methodist Hospital or Memorial Hermann Hospital are some of the best in healthcare in the State.
Top 21-30 Things To Love About Texas
21. Housing
There’s plenty of lands to go around since Texas is the biggest state in the United States. Because of this very fact, Texans can find affordable housing options throughout the state, whether they’re looking to buy or rent. For the same price of a tiny apartment in New York, you can already get a nice place to live with access to the outdoors where you can relax or even have your own home farm!
22. The Job Market
With a variety of industries booming, the job market in Texas is strong and offers many opportunities for job seekers. As of now, we’re seeing boomtown being reinvigorated and this development brings in jobs or small communities.
23. The Cost of Living
Overall, the cost of living in Texas is relatively low, making it a great place to live on a budget. With farm-to-market roads crisscrossing the State, food is relatively cheap to come by. Also, there’s wide variation in real-estate prices.
24. State-Imposed Taxes are Low
Texans enjoy some of the lowest tax rates in the country, which helps stretch their hard-earned dollars further. Based on 2022 data, the average local and state sales tax rate is 8.20 percent which makes Texas rank 14th on Tax Foundation’s State Business Tax Climate Index.
25. Energy Production
Texas is the leading state in the energy industry and is considered a global powerhouse when it comes to energy production.
From oil and gas to wind and solar, Texas is a leading producer of energy. That’s why electricity is relatively cheap and you can blast your A/C all you want to beat that insane heat wave.
26. Agriculture and Cheap Food Products
Agriculture is a vital part of the Texas economy, with the state producing a variety of crops and livestock. This is why prices on food are relatively low and we all get those big Texan servings that everybody loves.
27. Manufacturing Industry
With many major companies headquartered in Texas, it’s no surprise that the manufacturing industry is booming. You’ve got big tech companies like SpaceX calling the Lone Star State their base of operations.
28. The Technology
As one of the leading states for tech innovation, Texas is at the forefront of the latest advancements in technology. The state has been a host to the big move when it comes to large tech companies moving to the state from Silicon Valley.
29. The Tourism
With its many attractions, Texas is a top destination for tourists from all over the world. You’ve got state parks (my favorite), theme parks, chili contests, and a lot of other spots to visit. Planning a once-in-a-lifetime Texas steak road trip? Say no more.
Texas, being a large, geographically diverse state, offers a wide variety of activities that are sure to entertain guests of all ages.
30. The Film Industry
Texas is quickly becoming a hot spot for film production, thanks to its favorable tax incentives. And you also can’t deny the scenic beauty and allure of Texas for artists like filmmakers.
Top 31-40 Things To Love About Texas
31. Great Music Scene
With a rich musical history, Texas is known for its many talented musicians and singers. Spots like Deep Ellum that run deep with generations of music lovers and artists, you’re sure to love the band scene in Texas.
32. Rich Arts and Creative Crafts
Texas is home to a thriving arts scene, with many museums, galleries, and theaters throughout the state. This is because of the rich history and culture that you can find in Lone Star State.
33. The Wildlife
With its many lakes and rivers, Texas is home to a variety of wildlife, including fish, reptiles, mammals, and birds. And what better place to see them than in their habitats in the many protected wildlife areas in Texas.
34. State and National Parks
From state parks to national parks, there are plenty of places to explore in Texas. And you might even find some old Native American artifacts etched or painted on rocks when out on some trails.
35. Scenic Vistas
From desert landscapes to rolling hills, the scenery in Texas is as varied as its terrain. There are even restaurants in the scenic Texas Hill Country where you can enjoy panoramic views while you wine and dine.
36. The Beaches
With over 360 miles of coastline, Texans can enjoy plenty of beach time all year round. I, myself, have a special affinity for the quiet that Boca Chica has to offer for a contemplative walk along the coast.
So when you’re in the Lone Star state, make sure to spare some time to escape to the beach to enjoy the sun, sand, sea and maybe even some beer!
37. Fun Lake Activities
In addition to its many rivers, Texas is also home to a number of lakes, making it a great place for fishing, swimming, and boating.
38. Caving and Exploration
With over 5,000 known caves, Texas is a spelunker’s paradise. You can find these spots in different areas around the state because of the different rock formations and places that are rarely touched by civilization.
39. Golfer’s Paradise
As one of the top golfing states in the country, Texas offers many courses for players of all skill levels. You can expect different sites and challenges at the 500+ golf courses in the state.
40. Good Times at Rodeos
In 1997, rodeo was designated as the official state sport of Texas. Its roots traces back to the sixteenth century.
A staple of Texan culture, rodeos are a great way to experience the state’s cowboy heritage. This paired with some good old BBQ and beer is one of my favorite pastimes.
More Things To Love About The Lone Star State
41. The Thrill of the Hunt
With its large tracts of land, Texas is a popular destination for hunters from all over the country. And with a diverse range of different game animals, anybody can enjoy a good day out and probably bring home some elk meat for the freezer.
42. Fishing
With many lakes and rivers, Texas offers ample opportunities for both fresh and saltwater fishing. This is a great way to enjoy the bounties of nature while on an awesome camping trip in the many Texas state parks.
43. Bird Watching
As one of the top birding states in the country, Texas is home to a variety of feathered friends. Better bring a good pair of binoculars because you can expect quite the variety of species of migratory birds depending on the time of year.
44. Camping in the Great Outdoors
From developed campgrounds to backcountry camping, Texans can enjoy spending time outdoors in nature.
And whether you’re a picky camper or one YouTube video away from being a bushman, Texas has a lot to offer outdoorsy types.
45. Miles and Miles of Hiking Trails
With miles of trails to explore, hiking is a popular pastime in Texas. State and national parks like the Big Bend, Hueco Tanks, and Lost Maples are crisscrossed with hiking trails.
46. Mountain Biking
With its many bike trails, Texas is a great place to ride for both recreation and transportation. Urban centers have great areas for those who wish to travel by bike while wide swathes of parks have so much potential for a leisurely ride or more extreme downhill activities.
47. Canoeing
With its many waterways, Texas is a popular destination for canoeing and kayaking. A great way to get some cardio and see the different sites beside waterways throughout the Lone Star State.
48. Riding on Horseback
Nothing says Texas better than the OG mode of transport in the State - horseback riding. Texans can enjoy horseback riding in a variety of settings, from ranches to state parks.
49. The Rock Climbing
From beginner to expert, there are plenty of places to go rock climbing in Texas. Climbing spots like Tonkawa Falls, Eisenhower State Park, or Monster Rock are only a few of the many places where you can enjoy this sport.
50. Farmers’ Markets….Lots of Farmers' Market
One of the best things about Texas is the day-to-day things that all Texans experience.
Part of that is re-stocking one's pantry with farm-fresh organic produce by buying from a lot of farmers' markets in the State - effectively helping out local producers and providing healthy eats for all Texans.
So if you’re a Texan or visiting the Lone Star State, these are 50 things you should be familiar with and thankful for. They make up what makes Texas a great place to live in and its people, through generations of culture and tradition, has made this State what it is today.
