1. The Alamo
   1. Well… it had to top the list. This is where we were almost created. This was our Mayflower and Santa Maria. The character of the people of Texas today is a direct result of the individuals who sacrificed their lives at the Alamo to create a free state. The celeb list includes Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie and William Travis. Looking for a raccoon cap? Seeking a courageous story of a woman strengthened through battle? Read about Susannah Dickinson before you head there and walk into the Alamo to browse. Make sure to stay at the Menger in San Antonio and read up on their legendary ghost stories. The riverwalk won’t make the top ten, but its romance will seduce you.
2. The State Capitol
   1. Go a little farther north and you’ll find the biggest state capitol in America. Everything is bigger in Texas, including the amount of pride we have for our state. I highly encourage you to walk inside the capitol and discover its beauty. Sure it’s Texas limestone on the outside, but its pure state history and pride on the outside.
3. Gruene Hall in New Braunfels
   1. Arguably – and I mean arguably – the best place to two step in Texas, Gruene Hall is not only an infamous dancehall, but also a historical Texas landmark. Make sure you bootscoot on over to New Braunfels and enjoy the Gristmill River Restaurant.
4. Natural Bridge Caverns
   1. Yes we’re proud of our state, but we should be, it’s beautiful. Number four on our list may not be the first visit on your trip, but should definitely be included due to its grandeur.

   

5. Cowboy Stadium
   1. Chandeliers in a football stadium? Totally normal at Jerry Jones’ Cowboy Stadium home to the Dallas Cowboys. This year the stadium will hold not only hold football games, but basketball games and wrestling matches. Bringing in millions of revenues for the local communities, this stadium is a must see if you’re in the area.
6. Galveston Sea Wall
   1. The place where Texas meets the Gulf can on occasion look littered with oil refineries and barges; however, there is a place on the coast that inspires songs, books and thousands of people to trek there every summer. Galveston, having survived yet another disastrous hurricane, is the indisputable beach home for Texans seeking surf and sand.
7. Fredericksburg
   1. How can you not love the combination of wineries, bed and breakfasts and antique shopping? Well maybe men don’t love it, but let’s send them to the WWII museum while we hunt for furniture in the quaint little German town of Fredericksburg.
8. Big Bend National Park
   1. Not much attention is given to this part of the state, yet it happens to be the most scenic views the country has to offer. Dip your foot in the Rio Grande after hiking in this jaw-droppingly beautiful national park.
9. Buddy Holly Center in Lubbock
   1. Buddy Holly was much more than just the widely recognized eyeglasses, he was a legend. And he also just happened to be born in Texas. Although Lubbock as a city has been critiqued for its rare cow manure scent and lack of vegetation, this city is booming and should have a day dedicated in your itinerary. It may be a slow town, but it created some pretty mean rock n roll.
10. Corpus Christi/Port Aransas
    1. Another popular beach locale that couldn’t be left out of the top ten due to its warm water, friendly locals and consumer-friendly prices. The hotels and condominiums in the area aim to please families and pleasure seekers. Stay out of the spring break schedule, but make sure you step on a sand dune while drinking a Shiner and watching the sunset.

(Photos courtesy of flickr)

Dallas is the 4th largest metroplitan area in the U.S. and the only city grant the right to use Metroplex as a proper noun, describing Dallas and Fort Worth.Recently I created a list which appeals anyone who lives in Dallas or who wants to visit. It was originally posted on a friend’s website ILiveInDallas.com.

Most of the things to do in Dallas listed below are a) strictly in Dallas b) FREE or cost less than $15 c) year-round or available most of the year.  In line with the theme of this the website, many are arts-oriented and encourage patronizing local businesses. Most are also family-friendly or suitable things to do with kids or as a couple.

• Be a Conspiracy Theorist – Since 1989, The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza has welcomed more than 6 million visitors from around the world—people of all ages seeking information and understanding about the assassination of President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963. Did you know that the infamous window from which Oswald shot Kennedy sold on eBay for more than a million dollars? I’ve heard that the “X” on the street moves every year. How’s that for a conspiracy? Check out the plaza and the museum and judge for yourself. Cost: $13.50 per person
• Take the Trolley Tour – The M-Line’s air-conditioned and heated trolleys run 365 days a year, providing local transit service to Dallas’ vibrant Uptown Neighborhood. All rides, except charters, are free. There is a voluntary fare box, and I’m sure contributions are welcomed. Mr. Rogers and San Francisco don’t get to have all the fun. Get the trolley schedule. Cost: Free (donations accepted)
• Digitally Tee Off – This isn’t your grandpa’s driving range. Top Golf  is a revolutionary sports entertainment complex combining games with great food and an environment you can enjoy year-round with friends and family of all skill levels. Top Golf features computerized microchips in every golf ball that track your shots’ accuracy and distance while awarding points for hitting targets ranging from 20 – 250 yards away. The food isn’t half bad either. Find your inner digital caddy shack. Cost: $3.80 a game 9am-3pm, $5.80 a game 3pm-close

Read the whole article and get 28 More Fun Things to Do in Dallas.