Discover Texas Hidden Gems: Amazing Sites Off The Beaten Path

Texas is a huge state with a lot to see and do. While first-time visitors may be eager to check out some of the most popular attractions such as Houston Space Center and The Alamo, there are many other overlooked sights and destinations in the Lone Star State. Below are just a few off-the-beaten-track attractions to consider when in Texas.

Caverns of Sonora

Located in Sutton County, you’ll find the small city of Sonora. 8 miles west of this city is a stunning underground cave system that many tourists overlook. Guided tours can take you through these caves where you can learn all about the impressive stalactites and stalagmites

Hamilton Pool

Nestled in the Texas Hill Country is a natural swimming hole known as Hamilton Pool. A stunning waterfall flows into it and it is surrounded by limestone cliffs and lush green vegetation. Perfect for cooling off on a hot day!

Stonehenge II

England isn’t the only place that has a Stonehenge. Ingram in Texas has its own replica of this prehistoric monument named Stonehenge II, amusingly located alongside a replica Easter Island head. It’s one of Texas’s quirkier hidden gems.

Marfa

This small desert town is known for its cowboy culture and its strange light phenomena known as the ‘Marfa Lights’. It’s also a hub for artists and creatives and is full of odd art installations including a fake Prada shopfront in the middle of the desert.

Lake Fork

Located in East Texas, Lake Fork is a serene fishing paradise that has become renowned for its trophy bass fishing and birdwatching. It’s overlooked by Cross Timbers RV Park – a great place to stay if you’re road tripping through Texas.

Brocken Cave

Another cave worth visiting in Texas is Brocken Cave outside San Antonio. In the summer, it is home to a colony of 15 million bats – the largest colony of bats in the world! Tours are available of the cave.

Palo Duro Canyon

Palo Duro Canyon is sometimes referred to as the ‘Grand Canyon of Texas’. It is the second largest canyon in the world and has some breathtaking hiking trails. There are also several campsites where you can pitch up a tent overlooking the canyon.

Newman’s Castle

Texas also has its own castle in Bellville. It’s built in a medieval style complete with turrets and a drawbridge. The castle is open to the public and has an amazing interior that will make you feel as if you’ve stepped back in time.

Waco Mammoth Site

Waco Mammoth Site features the preserved remains of 24 Columbian mammoths. You can explore the dig site where the mammoths were discovered and learn all about these extinct mighty creatures in the accompanying museum.

Terlingua

Finally, it’s worth mentioning the ghost town of Terlingua, located on the edge of Big Bend National Park. Once an old mining town, it is now mostly abandoned ruins with a few hotels and restaurants for tourists. It is also home to several art installations and an annual chili cook off competition.