DISCOVER THE ULTIMATE AMERICAN ROAD TRIP
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Texas - Texas
Stops on this Route:
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Make the most of your US road trip with something from our American Collection:
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Stop 1: The Sixth Floor Museum 1/12
Step back in time at The Sixth Floor Museum and relive the fateful day of JFK’s assassination. Located at the scene of the crime – in the former Texas School Book Depository – this experiential museum uses films, displays and re-creations to transport you back to 1963. Around the corner, admire Dallas from 470 feet up on the observation deck of the city’s stand-out structure, Reunion Tower. A vast column crowned with a glowing orb, the tower delivers spectacular views of Downtown Dallas, day or night.
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Stop 2: Southfork Ranch 2/12
One of the most iconic homes of the 1980s, Southfork Ranch played host to the Ewing family in the hit TV series Dallas. Open to the public throughout the year, you can walk in the shoes of your favourite soap opera stars, exploring the grand white buildings and sprawling green fields, or jump in the saddle and enjoy a ‘Day on the Ranch’. With familiar settings around every corner, fans of the show will feel like they’re part of the drama at this well-loved filming location.
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Stop 3: Castaway Cove: Whichita Falls Water Park 3/12
Take a day to cool off from the sun at Castaway Cove Water Park in Wichita Falls. There’s rides and attractions for all the family to make a splash at this outdoor park. Escape your car and get the heart racing with wet thrill rides or take a moment to recharge in the lazy river. When you’re riding through Texas nothing gives a second wind better than a day’s break at a waterpark.
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Stop 4: Cadillac Ranch 4/12
Fondly known as ‘the yellow city’, Amarillo is home to a suitably colourful collection of landmarks. First stop, Cadillac Ranch – a line-up of 10 classic cars nose-diving into the dusty earth and covered in graffiti. Then, head south towards Combine City, where a plantation of 14 pre-loved combine harvesters have been ‘planted’ by a local farmer. While fencing prevents you strolling right up to the harvesters, you can admire their quirky, rusting beauty from the road.
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Stop 5: Palo Duro 5/12
Taking the crown as the second largest canyon in the USA, Palo Duro is a national park with views stretching as far as the eye can see. Explore by car, foot, horse or bike and soak up the wild beauty of the burnt-orange cliffs, deep gorges and towering lighthouse rock formations. If you want to extend your stay, pitch up at one of the campsites and park-ups dotted around the park and spend a night under the stars.
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Stop 6: Buddy Holly Center 6/12
Rock ‘n’ roll your way back to the 1950s at the Buddy Holly Center – a tribute to the late, great American musician. With a giant pair of his trademark, thick-rimmed glasses greeting you at the entrance, this is a celebration of all things Holly from the get go. Stroll down the West Texas Walk of Fame, check out the giant Buddy Holly statue and admire one of his most treasured guitars among the fascinating memorabilia on show. (Image credit: City of Lubbock, Buddy Holly Center)
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Stop 7: Fort Concho 7/12
The stomping ground of the Buffalo Soldiers, Fort Concho was a major military site in the wake of the American Civil War. Today, the limestone buildings and 19th century architecture have earned it the status of a Registered National Historic Landmark. You can walk freely around the frontier buildings, gaining a glimpse into the life of the Texan soldiers. For an immersive experience, check out the colourful calendar of events and plan your trip around one of the many festivals and re-enactments.
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Stop 8: The Alamo 8/12
Established by the Spanish during the 18th century, San Antonio is a city characterised by baroque architecture. Follow the San Antonio river as it snakes its way into the centre, admiring the five magnificent Spanish colonial missions which stand on the banks. It’s easy to drive between these landmarks, finishing at The Alamo – a Spanish mission which ultimately became an iconic battleground during the Texan Revolution.
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Stop 9: Mount Bonnell 9/12
Take a hike in the sun-drenched city of Austin and make the most of the beautiful weather. Follow the well-worn trail up Mount Bonnell, climbing 102 stairs to this popular vantage point. When you reach the top, enjoy sweeping views over the Colorado River, the capital city and the 360 bridge. With free parking for your hire car at the base of the trail on Mount Bonnell Road, this is a short hike that’s suitable for all ages – and believe us, the views are worth it.
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Stop 10: Space Center Houston 10/12
Blast into outer space without taking your feet off the ground at Space Center Houston – every budding astronaut’s dream. In this hands-on, cosmic adventure, you can tour Historic Mission Control, climb inside the replica Space Shuttle mounted on top of the 747 carrier aircraft and touch genuine moon rock estimated to be over three billion years old. With more than 400 space artefacts on display, a fascinating schedule of educational movies and even the possibility of seeing astronauts in training, Space Center Houston is the definition of ‘out of this world’. (Image credit: Space Center Houston)
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Stop 11: Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier 11/12
For a carefree, family-friendly stop on your American road trip, spend an afternoon at the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier. Originally built in the 1940s, the recently refurbished pier has successfully preserved the innocent charm of a day at the fair. From rollercoasters to bumper cars and Ferris wheels to log flumes, you’ll find all the well-loved, traditional rides at Galveston – however they promise a thrill like no other as you soar over the glittering waters of the Gulf of Mexico.
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Stop 12: Mustang Island 12/12
Cruise over the water via the John F. Kennedy Memorial Causeway and enjoy a blissful retreat on Mustang Island. With golden sand stretching for miles and the gulf waters gently lapping at the shore, this is an idyllic way to finish your road trip. Enjoy the relaxed pace of life, strolling along the beach and sampling the fresh seafood. Fishing enthusiasts can grab a rod and get out on the water themselves – Mustang Island is famed for its diverse marine life.
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