Location: Texas

Distance: 1,374 kilometres

There is no doubt that Texas serves up its fair share of wide open spaces and cowboy culture, but this southern state also plays home to sleek urban epicentres buzzing with culture and the latest across all trends. Indulge in award winning cuisine and the vibrant nightlife of cities like Dallas and Austin, or get back to the roots of country living in San Antonio and Fort Worth. This Grand Texan Trail calls to all travellers with a beautifully diverse set of experiences across the legendary 'Lone Star State'.

Highlights:

  • If you're visiting during football season, a Dallas Cowboys game is worth looking into.
  • The Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin is a must as it tells the story of Texas.
  • Visit the historic Alamo Mission to learn about the battle for Texas.
  • Houston Zoo is a fantastic family-friendly stop that offers hours of entertainment with more than 6,000 animals.
  • The 15 Block Stockyards in Fort Worth are well worth exploring if only for the daily cattle drive.

Day 1 & 2 – Dallas

After arriving in Dallas and a swift transfer to your hotel, days one and two are yours to explore at leisure. Take the opportunity to adopt the urban cowboy lifestyle as you absorb the city's understated elegance. It is home to the hottest fashion and culinary trends, from Neiman Marcus to Stephan Pyles, and it serves up a heaping dose of famous attractions. Appealing to culture fanatics, sport enthusiasts and everything in between, Dallas plays host to the world famous Southfork Ranch, Sixth Floor Museum, Nasher Sculpture Center and the legendary Dallas Cowboys. 

Day 3 – Dallas to Austin

Get underway with a 196 mile (315kms) stint to Austin. Known as the 'Live Music Capital of the World', this Texas state capital is a cultural epicentre and recreational treasure. Home to the Bob Bullock Texas State History Museum, Austin offers 200 music venues, hotels and attractions within walking distance of the downtown area. 

Day 4 & 5 – Austin to Houston

165 miles (265kms) south-east of Austin lies Houston – the state's largest city and a thriving metropolis to engage all types of traveller. Why not start your city exploration with a trip to the renowned Museum District? Marvel at the collections of the Museum of Natural Science, Museum of Fine Arts and Health Museum or escape to the award winning Houston Zoo.

Day 6 – Houston to San Antonio

It's back on the road for the 196 mile (315kms) journey to San Antonio, where epic battles shaped the state's history and flowing rivers provide respite from the Texas sun. From the stones of the Alamo to the lush, rolling terrain of San Antonio's hill country, this vibrant city takes you on a journey through a land as grand as its reputation.

Day 7 & 8 – San Antonio to Fort Worth to Dallas

Hit the road on day seven toward the 'City of Cowboys and Culture'. Fort Worth is known for its western heritage where real cowboys still take part in daily cattle drives through the historic 15-block stockyards. Gussy up in authentic garb before taking in such highlights as the weekly Championship Rodeo. Both the Cowboy and Cowgirl Hall of Fames are located here as is Billy Bob's Texas, dubbed the 'world's largest honky tonk'. From Fort Worth, it's a short 32 miles (51kms) back to Dallas, where you can spend your afternoon unwinding as you prepare for your departure.

Day 9 – Dallas

Your tour ends upon check-out of your hotel. We hope you enjoyed getting to know Texas along the Grand Texan Trail.