This Ain’t My First Rodeo

We're kicking the series off with some of the Lone Star State’s most iconic spots. From the historic charm of the Fort Worth Stockyards to the vibrant energy of San Antonio's River Walk, these destinations offer an introduction to the Texas ethos.

One of the most entertaining ways to experience the state’s culture is by attending a rodeo. Hosted by many cities and small towns, these events offer a fascinating look at our state’s history. In the past few months alone, Texas Highways has explored the rise and fall of the Texas Prison Rodeo and how Mesquite became the Rodeo Capital of Texas. If you’re set on becoming a True Texan, you need to attend a rodeo. Luckily, from Austin to Houston, communities across the state host their own. Saddle up and check out the animals and carnival rides, sample fried foods, and watch mutton bustin'—a classic rodeo event involving pint-size buckaroos attempting to ride a sheep for as long as they can. Yee-haw!

Experience the Fort Worth Stockyards

Don your Wranglers and cowboy boots: It’s time for a cattle drive! The quintessential experience at the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is the Fort Worth Herd cattle drive, where authentic cowhands drive a herd of Texas longhorns down the brick streets of Exchange Avenue daily at 11:30 a.m. and 4 p.m. While you’re in the Stockyards, catch a show at the renowned Billy Bob’s Texas or grab a seat at Booger Red’s Saloon. 

During your visit to Cowtown, we'd also recommend stopping at Mule Alley, the Kimbell Art Museum, Panther City BBQ, Sundance Square, and The Foundry.

Stand in two states at once in Texarkana

Bend time and space in Texarkana, a town that’s half in Texas and half in Arkansas. Home to the only post office that’s housed in two states—and a colorful sign out front that’s ideal for photo ops—Texarkana makes it easy to walk the line, literally. Located in a complex that was built in 1932 and also includes the federal courthouse, this working post office even has two separate zip codes.

Stroll the San Antonio River Walk

One of the most popular tourist destinations in Texas, the 15-mile River Walk, or Paseo del Rio, that meanders through downtown San Antonio and beyond is known as the “American Venice.” Beyond walking the wide promenade, visitors can board a riverboat cruise, peruse cowboy hats and other souvenirs, and sit and relax while sipping a margarita or eating a meal. For a less bustling section of the River Walk, head north to Museum Reach, where it connects with the old Pearl Brewery, Brackenridge Park, and the San Antonio Museum of Art. Or head south, where the River Walk was extended for 8 miles in 2013 and links with the San Antonio Missions in a section called Mission Reach. 

Watch mutton bustin' at the Houston Rodeo

For an exhilarating (and adorable) twist on ropin’ and ridin’, grab a seat at one of Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo’s mutton bustin’ events. Watch as pint-sized buckaroos try to ride a sheep for as long as they can. “The absurdity of mutton bustin’ had me smiling from my first viewing,” says Monica Golemo, a League City resident, who has entered her daughters into the lottery to participate to no avail. While at the rodeo, established in 1932 and one of the largest in the country, don’t miss the carnival, concerts, and more.

Ride the Ferris wheel at Pleasure Pier

Brisk Gulf breezes kiss your cheeks and the smell of funnel cakes fills the air as you step onto the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier, a multimillion-dollar waterfront entertainment destination featuring rides, midway games, shops, and food vendors. There is no better place to get the full Pleasure Pier experience than from atop the Galaxy Wheel, a 100-foot-tall, LED-light-bedecked attraction that anchors the pier and offers sweeping views of the Galveston seawall and the Gulf of Mexico.

While you are in town, be sure to visit the Historic Strand District and take a ghost tour. 

Drive over Rainbow Bridge

We can’t guarantee there’s a pot of gold at the end, but if you want the distinction of having driven across the second tallest bridge in the state of Texas, point your car toward Rainbow Bridge in Port Arthur. Standing as tall as a 20-story building, the truss bridge was completed in 1938 and links Port Neches to Bridge City via state highways 87 and 73 in southeast Texas. Clearing the underlying river by 176 feet, the bridge is a must-see for architecture enthusiasts. Just don’t be surprised if driving the steep incline delivers a white-knuckle experience.

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