Everything You Need to Know About Texas

Texas is the second-largest state in the United States and offers a great combination of culture, entertainment, and outdoor activities. From wide-open ranches and national parks to big cities and small towns, Texas offers a lot of unique experiences. Whether you’re looking for a weekend getaway or planning to move here, here’s everything you need to know about Texas.

Geography

Texas is located in the southern United States, bordered by New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas, and Louisiana. The state stretches from the Gulf of Mexico in the east to the New Mexico border in the west, and from the Red River in the north to the Rio Grande in the south. At 268,597 square miles, it is the second-largest state in the U.S. after Alaska and is slightly larger than California. The landscape of Texas is as varied as its culture. The state’s western region is known for its hot and dry deserts and wide open spaces, while the eastern region is characterized by rolling hills, thick forests, and winding rivers. Texas is home to several national parks including Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and the Padre Island National Seashore.

Climate

Texas is known for its hot and humid climate, with temperatures reaching into the high 90s during summer months. However, the state also varies greatly from east to west, with milder temperatures along the Gulf Coast and colder temperatures in the northern Panhandle region. Additionally, Texas experiences heavy rainfall in some areas as well as occasional tornadoes and severe thunderstorms.

People & Culture

Texas has a population of over 28 million people who come from all walks of life. More than 40% of Texans are Hispanic or Latino, while other major ethnicities include African American, White, and Asian Americans. The state’s culture is a unique blend of Tex-Mex cuisine, country music, rodeos, and friendly people. There’s also an emphasis on history, especially since Texas was its own republic before it became part of the United States in 1845. Each year millions come to visit historic sites and battle reenactments where you can learn about Texas’ past.

Economy & Industry

Texans are proud of their reputation for hard work, self-reliance, and business savvy — and it shows in the state’s economy. Texas is one of the most prosperous states in the U.S., with a GDP of over $1.9 trillion (as of 2019). Additionally, it has four Fortune 500 companies based in the state, including ExxonMobil and AT&T. Texas’ largest industries include oil and gas production, electronics manufacturing, computer technology, finance, renewable energy, and aerospace engineering. The state also has numerous agricultural products such as cotton, beef cattle, corn, hay, and sorghum.

Education

Texas has more than 1,000 public schools that serve students from pre-K through grade 12. It also has numerous universities that offer advanced degrees including bachelor’s degrees, master’s degrees, doctoral programs, professional degrees (such as law and medicine), and certification programs. The University of Texas has several well-known campuses located throughout the state including in Austin, Dallas-Fort Worth, Houston and San Antonio. In addition to public schools, there are a number of private schools across Texas providing both religious and secular education options for students. There are also several community colleges that offer vocational certificate programs as well as associate’s degrees for those looking for a shorter educational experience.

Tourism

Tourism is a major industry in Texas with millions of visitors coming to enjoy the state’s rich culture, diverse landscape, and vibrant cities each year. There are numerous attractions including amusement parks, family-friendly museums, historical sites like the Alamo and USS Lexington Museum on the Bay in Corpus Christi, professional sports teams like the Dallas Mavericks and Houston Rockets, world-class shopping malls like The Galleria in Houston, music festivals like SXSW in Austin, and much more.

Conclusion

Texas is an incredibly diverse and vibrant state that offers something for everyone. From historic sites to modern cities to open ranches and deserts; visitors will find an abundance of activities for all ages. Whether you’re planning a trip or thinking about moving here, Texas is a great place to explore and enjoy an amazing quality of life.

An Insider’s Guide to Houston, Texas

Houston is one of the largest and most diverse cities in Texas, with a myriad of attractions and experiences to offer. As a local, I know there are plenty of hidden gems and cultural experiences that are often overlooked by tourists. Here is your guide to experiencing the city like a true Houstonian.

Local Attractions: Beyond the Tourist Spots

While the Space Center Houston and the Museum District are essential stops, don’t miss out on some hidden gems. The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center is a stunning oasis in the city and offers nature walks and educational programs. Gerald D. Hines Waterwall Park, located in the Galleria area, showcases a massive sculptural fountain that is perfect for photo opportunities. Lastly, the eclectic art installations at Smither Park are fascinating and unique.

Dining Spots: Satisfy Your Taste Buds with Local Flavors

Houston is known for its diverse food scene, and one thing you must try is the classic Tex-Mex cuisine. Head over to Ninfa’s on Navigation for their famous fajitas or Molina’s Cantina for the best margaritas in town. Another must-visit is Crawfish & Noodles, a Vietnamese-Cajun fusion restaurant where you can enjoy the flavorful crawfish and other fresh seafood. For something sweet, check out the world-famous Shipley Do-Nuts, where you can taste the best donuts in town.

Cultural Experiences: Discovering Houston’s Traditions

Houston is home to many cultural festivals and events, with one of the most popular being the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. The event features traditional rodeo festivities, concerts, and livestock shows, all in one place. If you’re a fan of theatre, explore the Alley Theatre, which is renowned for its productions of classic plays and contemporary works. Lastly, make sure to visit The Menil Collection, a museum that showcases an impressive collection of art and artifacts from around the world.

Local History: Fascinating Stories From the City’s Past

One of Houston’s most significant historical moments was the successful completion of the Apollo 11 mission to the moon. At the Space Center Houston, you can see the training facilities used by astronauts and even touch a moon rock. The Houston Museum of Natural Science is another must-visit, as it features fascinating exhibits on paleontology, astronomy, and more. Lastly, learn about Houston’s role in WWII at the Lone Star Flight Museum.

Off-the-beaten-path Suggestions: Unique and Unforgettable Experiences

Make an off-the-beaten-path trip to the Buffalo Bayou Park Cistern, a 1920s underground water reservoir that now functions as an interactive art space. You can also take a stroll through the vibrant and colorful graffiti art murals in the East End district. Lastly, escape the urban hustle and bustle by exploring the serene and peaceful Japanese Garden located in Hermann Park.

Now that you have a guide to the unique and hidden side of Houston, go seize the opportunity to make unforgettable memories.