From unique natural parks to on-the-rise towns.
Here are 8 memorable destinations in Texas to put on your bucket list for 2025.
An exact date hasnt been announced, but officials say it should be up and running by spring.

Santa Elena Canyon in Big Bend National Park in West Texas.Credit: Tara Donne
Today, you’re able to walk on a platform above the excavation at theWaco Mammoth National Monument.
(Finish your tour with a float at the soda fountain.)
Visitors can even climb aboard a mechanical bronc or design their own Western-style shirt via interactive exhibits.

Credit:Courtesy Texas Parks and Wildlife
The museum celebrates its 20th anniversary this year.
While youre in town, check out the twirling metal windmills sprouting from the horizon.

A shuttle replica on display at Houston’s Space Center.Credit:Matthew Stockman/Getty Images

Credit: chapin31 / Getty Images

South Padre Island.Credit: Southern Living

Credit: typhoonski / Getty Images

Credit:Gabriela Herman

Angell Expeditions leads a river adventure in Santa Elena Canyon.Credit: Tara Donne

Credit:Courtesy National WASP World War II Museum