Long nights of homework reside in the past while warm vacation nights approach. Road trips can help beat the summer boredom while getting you out of the house to explore this home state we call Texas. Calling all nature lovers and adventure seekers, below are a few places to visit before school resumes in the fall:
Big Bend National Park
Located in Texas’ Big Bend National Park, this reservation provides the opportunity for people to hike, canoe across turquoise waters, stargaze in the indigo night sky, bird watch, fish and drive a scenic route viewing deserts, rivers and mountains.
Gorman Falls Trail
Hiking to this beautiful scene of greenery only costs an entry fee of $5 for adults and free admission for children. As part of the Big Bend National Park, Gorman Trail features a waterfall during the 2.6 mile hike. Visitors can walk, bike, hike or enjoy the view with their dog.
Terlingua Ghost Town
An 11 minute drive from Big Bend National Park will land you in Terlingua, Texas. Free of charge and free of restrictions, the ruins of the Chisos Mining Company provide a spooky experience for a group of friends to explore. The town became desolate and in shambles after a mining company failed in business. What looks like a deserted movie scene could be the next stop on an awesome road trip.
Stonehenge II
Rather than traveling to the United Kingdom to see stones coming out of the ground, stop by the Hill Country Arts Foundation in Ingram, Texas for Stonehenge II. The smaller-to-scale sculptures have the same essence as the original but help cut the cost of the real thing.
Devils Watering Hole
After a short hike, this relaxing oasis flows with beautifully blue and turquoise waters into a bed of rocks. Surrounded by green shrubbery and trees, a calming sense of peace overcome hikers. Visitors can hike, rest, frolic in the water or explore on the trail located in Burnet, Texas.
Barney Smith’s Toilet Seat Art
Located in San Antonio, this folk museum showcases the wildest toilet seats in Texas. Inspired by his father’s hanging of animals after a hunt, retired plumber Barney wanted to share the experience. Several seats replicate historical events — both good and bad. The roadside attraction is free of charge, so stop by and look at some pretty interesting toilet seats.
Jesus in Cowboy Boots
Want to intertwine your deep-seated Texan roots with the love of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ? Well, Paris, Texas is the place for you. Despite the speculation of the statue actually representing Jesus, the angelic figure has been deemed the “Jesus in Cowboy Boots” because of the crucifix and robe. The memorial lays in the Evergreen Cemetery, so be weary when you visit the heaven-bound rodeo champion.
Art Car Museum
With numerous events and exhibitions, this museum also known as “Garage Mahal” serves as a platform for local, national and international contemporary artists and their want to raise awareness for political, personal, economic and cultural dimensions of art. The FotoFinish 2017 summer exhibition will run May 13 to Aug. 13 with free parking admission.
Jacob’s Well
From a green moss fading into a deep, turquoise blue, this natural well can be a fun a place to relax. Though there are several rules to follow, admission fee and required reservation, Jacob’s Well can serve as a place where many summer memories are made in this beautiful Wimberley, Texas destination.
