Planning a Texas road trip? You’ve got a lot of land in front of you to explore! There’s so much to see; you’ll want to map your route and plan your stays in major cities. But leave plenty of time to wander off the beaten path too.

Money-Saving Secrets for Your Texas Road Trip

Travel at your own pace and save money by renting an RV and staying in campgrounds across the state. Also, try to limit stops at pricey roadside convenience stores. Instead, stock up on snacks and drinks when you’re near a supermarket. You’ll be surprised how much money you can save by cooking some of your meals in your RV or on the grill at campsites. Then splurge on one or two nice dinners in each city. (Local hint: Pappas Bros. has been ranked the best steakhouse in Dallas by D Magazine since 2011.)

Many of the best activities in the Lone Star State are free, making it even easier to take in more of Texas on a budget.

Things to Do in Dallas

It may seem like the best things to do in Dallas cost big bucks, but some of the area’s most famous attractions are free.

Take a Hike

Gaze at the city from a prime vantage point atop Margaret Hunt Hill Bridge. The full walking trail will take you on a 4.6-mile loop with fantastic sites and plenty of places to stop, eat, or shop along the way.

Discover Deals at the Dallas Farmers Market

The Dallas Farmers Market, a staple of the city since 1941, offers more than just local, sustainably grown produce. Enjoy seasonal activities for the whole family, plus a 6,000-square-foot food hall and artisanal vendor market, and an open-air pavilion. Don’t forget your Texas-themed tote bag to carry your favorite foods back to your hotel or campsite.

Appreciate Artistry

The Dallas Museum of Art is just one of many free museums across the city. Situated in the Dallas Arts District, it’s free to get there on the D-Link, a shuttle that takes you through downtown and into the Bishop Arts District.

Share History at Dealey Plaza

The John F. Kennedy Memorial and Dealey Plaza are another stop on the D-Link. While the Sixth Floor Museum costs up to $18 for admission, it’s free to explore the memorial. Older family members can share their own recollections of that fateful day in U.S. history.

Things to Do in Austin

Continue your Texas road trip by traveling about three hours south to the heart of Austin. The city is well-known for craft breweries, technology innovations, and a music scene that rivals Nashville. While it’s easy to drop cash in the many microbreweries, consider these family-friendly activities in Austin, instead.

Party in Zilker Park

Pack a picnic basket and head to Zilker Park for an afternoon of fun. The park’s many attractions include hiking trails and a disc golf course. Onsite camping gives you a space to park your RV while you tour the city.  

Beat the Heat at Butler Park

Butler Park offers attractions you won’t find anywhere else, including Doug Sahm Hill and the Liz Carpenter Fountain, a splash pad that transforms into a dazzling light display at dusk.

Things to Do in Houston

Head due east to explore Houston. Like Dallas and Austin, Houston can get pricey. But if you know the best free spots in the city, your whole family can have fun on this leg of your Texas road trip without breaking the bank.

Embrace Houston Culture and History at Miller Outdoor Theatre

Houston is known for beautiful parks with miles of bicycle and walking trails. Amongst the parks is Hermann Park, home to 95-year-old Miller Outdoor Theatre. Take in a free show in this first-class, outdoor proscenium theater and experience a cutting-edge performance integrated with a slice of Houston history.

Go Batty at Eleanor Tinsley Park

Offering a picturesque view of the downtown skyline, Eleanor Tinsley Park hosts festivals and events year-round. Plan your trip to hit the park at dusk and watch 250,000 bats fill the Houston sky near the Waugh Drive Bridge.

What’s on Your Texas Road Trip Map?

With hundreds of museums, parks, lakeshore beaches and more, your Texas road trip provides plenty of culture and nature to explore. Don’t forget your Texas souvenirs to commemorate your journey.