Escape Dallas' City Life On This Scenic Road Trip That Ends At A Beach-Filled Island

While Texas evokes themes of cowboys and farm living, it is much more than that. Perhaps due in part to its size as the second largest state in the U.S., Texas varies from major cities to beachfront relaxation. This makes the Lone Star State the perfect place for a road trip combining both big city life and calm, natural escapes. When planning an itinerary, consider a road trip from Dallas to the Gulf of Mexico. The Texas section of the gulf features Galveston, a small island near Houston that packs a big punch.

Dallas hardly needs an introduction, but while sports and classic Texas cuisine comes to mind first, let's dig a little deeper into its significance. In 1963, the world was shocked by President John F. Kennedy's assassination in Dallas. The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza now dedicates itself to his memory, his presidency as a whole, and American life in the 1960s. More presidential history is at the George W. Bush Presidential Center. This organization has permanent and limited-time exhibits focusing on President Bush's time in the White House and foundational American values. Don't miss the chance to learn about the natural landscapes and plant life of Texas at the center's massive outdoor Laura W. Bush Native Texas Park either.

If you're ready to see something other than skyscrapers, head southwest of downtown Dallas to Trinity River Audubon Center. Boardwalks help you traverse through wetlands while hiking trails take you through prairie and forest ecosystems. You'll be able to get views of the Trinity River as well. Throughout the trip, keep your eyes out for plenty of birds, as Texas is an amazing birdwatching destination in America, especially during the migration months of March through April and mid-September through October.

Less than two hours from Dallas in central Texas is the smaller town of Waco. Baylor University is a major claim to fame for Waco, but fans of home and lifestyle television should stop here too. HGTV stars Chip and Joanna Gaines formed their own TV channel called the Magnolia Network. The Gaines family have their Magnolia Market home goods store in Waco, which also sees events like outdoor markets throughout the year. Family-focused attractions continue at the nearby Cameron Park Zoo, known for its lovely surrounding nature that is well incorporated into the animal enclosures. The unique Dr. Pepper Museum housed in an over 100 year old bottling plant is here too. Learn the history of the drink and even make your own soda. Head online to reserve a time and see all of the experiences offered.

Another chapter of Texas' presidential influence is on display at George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station, halfway between Waco and Houston. Exhibits showcase President Bush's political career along with other defining aspects of his life, such as his time serving in World War II and the family of First Lady Barbara Pierce Bush. This complex is on the Texas A&M University campus, a major highlight of College Station. The Gardens on campus are worth a stop too and are perfect for picnicking.

Museums might not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of Houston, but this massive city's range of museums cover everything from quirky to classy. Check out folk art in a building made from thousands of recycled beer cans at the Beer Can House or wander through room after room of art from all over the world that encompasses multiple mediums at the Museum of Fine Arts. Despite being the fourth largest city in the United States, Houston's green spaces are aplenty as well. Buffalo Bayou runs like a river through the city and the park areas on either side feature tons of trees and paved trails with city views reminiscent of those from Central Park in New York City.

Although some Houston suburbs have bay areas that connect with the ocean, Galveston is much more oceanfront. There is no shortage of vacation rentals, hotels, and even RV spaces close to the water. Places for beach relaxation are all over the island too, but East Beach at the island's eastern tip is definitely a bucket list beach in Texas. It has a bit of a party atmosphere, but also plenty of local wildlife. Look out for cranes, pelicans, and sandpipers to name a few. The boardwalk offers year round fun, but this beach often hosts events from concerts to sandcastle building competitions throughout the summer. Check the calendar online to see the latest happenings. 

Stand out architectural features of Galveston are the pyramids that make up the Moody Gardens. It would almost be easier to list what this place does not have rather than what it does. At the Moody Gardens, you'll find a 4D special effects theater, penguins, a golf course, a rainforest, and more. You can even stay at the onsite hotel. Visitors have put the Moody Gardens among the best destinations to visit in Texas instead of tourist traps like the Houston Downtown Aquarium.