Free Things to Do in Texas

Whether drawn to the modern architecture of Houston or the historic streets of San Antonio, there are plenty of tourist attractions and events that make the Lone Star State worth visiting. Moreover, many museums, galleries, and top tourist destinations across Texas offer experiences that require no admission fee. From city parks to picturesque hill country hikes, here’s a comprehensive guide to the best free things to do in Texas.

Tour the Capitol Building in Austin

After Texas won independence from Mexico in 1836, the capital moved multiple times before finally settling in Austin. Construction on the first state building began in 1853, resulting in the current Capitol, which is the third iteration of the structure. At 302.64 ft (92.24 m) tall, the iconic pink granite dome surpasses that of the United States Capitol (289 ft/88 m) in Washington, D.C., which served as its model.

Although it is only the sixth tallest state capitol in the nation, the Texas Capitol boasts the greatest floor area of any state capitol at 360,000 sq ft (33,000 m2). Visitors can explore nearly four hundred rooms, nine hundred windows, and a whispering gallery in the central rotunda. Both self-guided and guided tours are available at no cost, making this an enriching experience. Also, take time to stroll the expansive grounds, adorned with majestic trees and historic statues.

Houston Arboretum & Nature Center

While NASA and numerous galleries attract visitors to Texas’ largest city, Houston also features urban green spaces offering a tranquil escape amid the hustle and bustle. The Houston Arboretum and Nature Center, located about four miles from downtown on the western edge of Memorial Park, provides serene nature trails and educational experiences.

Spanning 155 acres with five miles of free trails, this non-profit nature sanctuary is essential for preserving native plants and animals. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits in the Discovery Room at the Nature Center or browse the Nature Shop for unique gifts.

NorthPark Center, Dallas

Although items in the shops at NorthPark Center come with a price tag, the shopping center is a fantastic destination to view free art installations, courtesy of the Nasher Sculpture Center. Designed in the 1960s to showcase Patsy and Raymond Nasher’s expanding contemporary art collection, this luxury retail space provides a complimentary alternative to visiting the Nasher Sculpture Center.

Wander the Historic Riverwalk in San Antonio

Thanks to its deep historical significance in the Texas Independence war, the Alamo stands as the premier tourist destination in San Antonio. This site commemorates the sacrifice of a small Texan army defending the fort against a much larger Mexican army. Although the Alamo often looms large in visitors’ minds, exploring the surviving structure offers valuable insights into its more modest size and the formidable challenges faced by Texan defenders.

Nonetheless, do not overlook the other historic San Antonio missions: long before the Alamo became a symbol of Texas Independence, it was known as the Mission San Antonio de Valero, the first of five Spanish missions in the area. Now a UNESCO World Heritage site—the only one in Texas—the missions are interconnected by a hiking and biking trail spanning approximately 2.5 miles between each site. Starting at the ancient aqueduct of Mission Espada, hikers can navigate back into town toward the other missions, including San Juan Capistrano, San José, and, of course, the renowned Alamo.

Scenic Drive in El Paso

Winding through the southern tip of the Franklin Mountains and following the Rio Grande, Scenic Drive is particularly popular in the evening for its breathtaking city-lit views. This drive offers expansive vistas of El Paso, Ciudad Juarez, and the neighboring mountains. For a picturesque journey, follow N Mesa St to Kerbey Ave (near the university), continue east until it becomes Rim Rd, and then turn right onto Scenic Dr. Be sure to watch for the charming Murchison Park along the way, an excellent spot to catch sunrises.

Snap a Selfie with Buddy Holly in Lubbock

Located across the street from the new Buddy Holly Museum, the statue of this legendary country musician is an outstanding photo opportunity in Lubbock. The musical icon, who passed away in 1959 due to a tragic plane crash, profoundly impacted the future of rock and roll. Nearby plaques from the West Texas Walk of Fame surround the statue, and the entire plaza is illuminated at night, making the statue easily visible from nearby Interstate 27.

Davis Mountains Scenic Drive

While travelers heading to West Texas often flock to the famous Prada Marfa art installation—a short 40-minute drive from Marfa to Valentine—many overlook the natural wonders found within the Davis Mountains, located just a short detour away. If starting from Prada Marfa, follow US-90 until the turn onto Ranch Road 505, which leads to Texas 166 and ultimately loops back on Texas 118 into Fort Davis. This scenic drive meanders past Mount Livermore, Texas, and traverses the highest points on Texas highways, providing unforgettable vistas.

Hike Hancock Hill

The picturesque campus of Sul Ross State University, established in 1917 and part of the Texas State University System, sits against the backdrop of Hancock Hill. A short yet steep hike up the hill rewards visitors with stunning views of Alpine and the surrounding mountains. Be sure to stop at “The Desk,” a scenic writing spot that three students transported to the summit in 1981. Visitors can leave the guestbook and read messages from fellow adventurers.

Galveston Sea Wall

The breathtaking Gulf Coast views make a stroll along the sea wall in Galveston a must. This scenic route leads to the Pleasure Pier, which reopened in 2012 after its destruction by Hurricane Carla in 1961. It stands at the original location of the iconic pleasure pier from the 1940s, providing a perfect setting for sunset beach photographs.

Sulphur Springs

Not to be mistaken for its Colorado namesake, Sulphur Springs offers a genuine taste of small-town Texas. Enjoy a leisurely walk around the picturesque Hopkins County Courthouse, Celebration Plaza, and the Hopkins County Veterans Memorial, or explore the walking trails that circle nearby Coleman Lake.

Old Tunnel State Park

Located just outside Fredericksburg, Old Tunnel State Park features the ruins of an abandoned railroad, which once linked Fredericksburg to the San Antonio and Aransas Pass Railway. Operations ceased in 1942, allowing several colonies of bats to inhabit the abandoned tunnel. From May to October, tickets are required to witness the emergence of the Mexican free-tailed bats at dusk, yet there is no entry fee for accessing the park’s short hiking trail for birdwatching and wildlife observation.