As Texas As It Gets

While some of the iconic Texas items on our list may seem to play into stereotypical depictions of Texans, there are deep traditions underneath these touchstones of Texas identity. Some more common experiences—like eating a meal at Whataburger (which is more than comfort food), buying a pair of custom cowboy boots, or riding a mechanical bull—are integral to being a Texan.

You’ve probably heard the saying, “Everything’s bigger in Texas.” And that’s true of many of the adventures in today’s email. One larger-than-life example is Buc-ee’s, a gas station stop with humble beginnings in Lake Jackson. The Luling location marked the first of their signature large-format travel centers. Later this year, the original Luling travel center will be replaced with a building that doubles its footprint, crowning it as the largest convenience store in the world. And the chain’s Katy location boasts the world's longest car wash at 255 feet. It takes almost five minutes to travel through, so be sure to have some Beaver Nuggets on hand before you start your wash.

Make a pit stop at the original Buc-ee’s

Perhaps no place has become more recognizable in the landscape of Texas pop culture than Buc-ee’s, the roadside convenience store that has garnered a cult-like following thanks to its massive size, famously clean restrooms, oddly addictive Beaver Nuggets, and grinning cartoon mascot. There are nearly 40 locations in Texas, and some out-of-state as well, but true fans must make the pilgrimage to the original location, Buc-ee’s No. 1, which opened in Lake Jackson in 1982. The inside may not be as immense as newer locations, but visiting will certainly give you bragging rights about your Buc-ee’s obsession. If that doesn't scratch your itch, there is a large-format Buc-ee's less than 15 minutes down the road off State Highway 332.

Cheer on your favorite non-professional football team

Whether it’s Friday night lights or Saturday afternoon sun, it’s no secret that Texas is a football state. There’s no better way to experience the full scope of what it means to be a fan of the game than to attend one of the state’s storied rival games, ranging from the annual Bum Phillips Bowl between Port Neches-Groves and Nederland high schools to the Red River Showdown between the University of Texas and the University of Oklahoma. This year will also see the return of the Lone Star Showdown, a matchup between Texas A&M and the University of Texas. It will be the first time the two teams have played against each other in 13 years. 

Order one of our favorite combos at Whataburger

Order a Whataburger No. 1—beef patty, lettuce, tomato, diced onions, pickles, and mustard; a patty melt; or a honey butter chicken biscuit, and eat it while cruising down the highway on a road trip. Don't forget the spicy ketchup with any fries. (Bonus points if you wash your meal down with a Dr Pepper.)

The first Whataburger location on Ayers Street in Corpus Christi closed long ago. However, there is a new flagship location dubbed "Whataburger by the Bay," which has two stories and an outdoor patio with views of the water.

Get a feel for a small town’s individual charm

Texas may be home to some of the biggest cities in the country, but the small towns that dot the landscape have their own special charm. To get the full character of a place, head to the town square or main street. Wimberley’s square is chock-full of art galleries, Fredericksburg’s Marktplatz boasts wineries and German eateries, and Waxahachie is known for its gingerbread-style homes and Richardsonian Romanesque courthouse. There are hundreds more. We've got a list below of more options to help you get moving.

Port Aransas

When Texas summers begin heat up, many people want to retreat to the Gulf Coast. A small coastal town situated on Mustang Island, Port Aransas has a variety of things to see and do to beat the heat.

Alister Street, the main thoroughfare through town, boasts a variety of shopping and dining. The Patton Center for Marine Science Education aims to teach folks about local marine life. There is the historic Chapel of the Dunes, which boasts beautifully painted walls and sits on the highest point in town. Farley Boat Works showcases how wooden boats are built. Lastly, don't forget to stop at Shorty's for a refreshing drink after a long day.

Due to its location along the Central Flyway, Port Aransas has wonderful birding opportunities. The Leonabelle Turnbull Birding Center allows for visitors to walk a boardwalk or view species from the observation towers.

Port Aransas is reachable via State Highway 361 to the south. The north provides a more exciting option of travel—the Port Aransas ferry system. It's one of two ferry systems in the state.

Marfa

In 1971, minimalist artist Donald Judd moved to this unassuming small West Texas town. Since then, Marfa has grown into an art enclave. The Chinati Foundation, founded by Judd, continues his legacy by celebrating large-scale works of art. The town boasts many other art spaces, like Ballroom Marfa. You've likely also heard about the infamous Prada Marfa, but we regret to inform you art installation actually isn't in Marfa at all, but in neighboring Valentine.

During your visit, be sure to seek out the mysterious Marfa Lights and maybe book your stay at the Hotel Paisano. The historic hotel was the residence of Elizabeth Taylor and James Dean during the filming of Giant.

Located about 30 miles east of Marfa, the nearby small town of Alpine is also worth adding to your list. Be sure to hike Hancock Hill to visit "The Desk" and sign your name in the notebook. There is also Wassermann Wranch that provides a haven for some rehabilitated animals with tours for the general public.

Hop on a mechanical bull—and hold on tight.

Taking a spin on a mechanical bull might seem like a rite of passage in the Lone Star State, but the places where you can still do so are fewer and farther between. Thankfully, Cowboys Dancehall in San Antonio has kept the tradition alive and buckin’ thanks to its on-site mechanical bull, which welcomes both locals and tourists who are eager to hit their 8 seconds.

Get fitted for cowboy boots at a custom bootmaker.

If you want cowboy boots made from prime materials and molded to your feet, go custom. Some of the most famous master bootmakers in Texas are located in the Rio Grande Valley. Armando’s Boot Co. in Raymondville or Camargo’s Western Boots in Mercedes have crafted custom boots since the early 1980s. But you can’t order them online. You must go to the stores in person to have your feet measured by the artisans and pick your materials, like ostrich and alligator.

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