Texas, the Lone Star State, is renowned for its vast landscapes, rich history, and vibrant culture. But its unique position bordering several other states makes it an ideal starting point for exploring a diverse range of nearby destinations, each offering its own distinct flavor of American culture, history, and natural beauty. If you’re in Texas or planning a trip here, venturing just beyond its borders opens up a world of incredible experiences.
These states to visit near texas provide everything from bustling cultural hubs and historic cities to breathtaking natural wonders and unique culinary scenes, catering to every type of traveler.
Whether you’re seeking a quick weekend getaway or planning a more extensive exploration, the adjacent states offer accessible adventures. From the spicy flavors of Louisiana to the mountainous majesty of Colorado and the artistic soul of New Mexico, you don’t have to travel far from Texas to immerse yourself in completely different environments.
Let’s embark on a journey to explore some of the most captivating states bordering or easily accessible from Texas, highlighting their unique attractions, cultural insights, and practical tips for visiting. For those planning their adventures originating from Texas, understanding the starting points like best places to visit in texas or specifically what is there to see in austin texas can help shape the initial leg of your trip.
Louisiana: The Vibrant Bayou State
Just a short drive east from Texas lies Louisiana, a state teeming with unique culture, deep history, and an unparalleled culinary identity. It’s one of the most popular states to visit near texas for a taste of something completely different. The air in Louisiana feels different – humid, fragrant with spices, and often filled with the distant sound of jazz or blues.
A Blend of Cultures and Culinary Delights
Louisiana’s identity is heavily shaped by its French, African, and Spanish influences, particularly evident in its architecture, music, and food. New Orleans is the crown jewel, a city alive with music pouring from every doorway in the French Quarter, the historic charm of Bourbon Street, and the eerie beauty of its above-ground cemeteries. But beyond the obvious, explore the Garden District with its stunning mansions or the vibrant Bayou St. John area.
Cajun and Creole cuisine is a major draw. This isn’t just food; it’s a narrative of survival, adaptation, and celebration. From hearty gumbo and spicy jambalaya to crawfish boils and sweet beignets, every dish tells a story of the diverse peoples who settled the region. Visiting Lafayette offers a deeper dive into pure Cajun culture and food, often involving lively music and dance (‘fais do-do’).
Natural Wonders and Outdoor Adventures
Louisiana’s landscape is defined by its bayous and wetlands. Places like Atchafalaya National Wildlife Refuge or Fontainebleau State Park offer opportunities for hiking, bird watching, and swamp tours – a chance to see alligators and other native wildlife up close. Avery Island, famous for Tabasco sauce, also features the lush Jungle Gardens and Bird City sanctuary.
Getting there from Texas is straightforward, often just a few hours drive, making it perfect for a weekend escape or a longer exploration of its rich heritage.
Jungle Gardens in Avery Island, Louisiana, USA taken on a sunny day with a huge tree in the foreground and water and more trees in the distance.Jungle Gardens in Avery Island offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s natural beauty and wildlife.
New Mexico: The Land of Enchantment
Heading west from Texas, New Mexico offers a dramatic shift in scenery and culture. Known as the Land of Enchantment, it lives up to its name with vast deserts meeting rugged mountains, and ancient history blending with vibrant contemporary art scenes. It’s a fascinating option among the states to visit near texas for those seeking spiritual and artistic inspiration.
A Tapestry of History and Art
New Mexico’s cultural landscape is a rich mosaic of Native American, Spanish, and Anglo influences. Santa Fe, the capital, is one of the oldest cities in the US and a major cultural hub. Its adobe architecture, historic Plaza, and countless art galleries along Canyon Road create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. The Georgia O’Keeffe Museum celebrates the artist deeply inspired by the New Mexico landscape.
Beyond Santa Fe, explore the ancient Taos Pueblo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site inhabited for over 1,000 years, offering profound insights into Native American life and history. Bandelier National Monument preserves ancestral Pueblo dwellings carved into cliffs, allowing visitors to literally walk in the footsteps of history.
Unique Landscapes and Wellness
New Mexico’s natural beauty ranges from the stark white dunes of White Sands National Park to the dramatic canyons and mountains. The state is also dotted with natural hot springs, providing opportunities for relaxation and rejuvenation in stunning settings, such as Ojo Caliente Mineral Springs. The mysterious Marfa Lights, while technically in West Texas, are a unique phenomenon often associated with visits to this border region, adding an element of intrigue to the trip.
Driving from Texas to Santa Fe or other parts of New Mexico is typically a day’s journey or less from many Texas cities, offering a relatively easy road trip to a state with a distinctly different vibe and aesthetic.
Explore the ancient cliff dwellings at Bandelier National Monument in New Mexico.
Arizona: Venturing into the Desert Southwest
Further west, Arizona presents a landscape of iconic deserts, towering saguaros, and the awe-inspiring Grand Canyon. It’s a state of vast natural wonders and a growing urban sophistication, making it another compelling choice among states to visit near texas for outdoor enthusiasts and those fascinated by the desert ecosystem.
Majestic Landscapes and Outdoor Adventures
Arizona is synonymous with the Grand Canyon, one of the world’s most magnificent natural spectacles. While a visit here is a journey in itself, the state offers countless other outdoor opportunities. Hike the trails around Phoenix, like Camelback Mountain, or explore the unique rock formations of Papago Park. Further afield, Organ Pipe Cactus National Park showcases a unique Sonoran Desert ecosystem, while Montezuma Castle National Monument preserves ancient cliff dwellings.
Beyond the natural beauty, cities like Phoenix and Scottsdale offer vibrant arts scenes, excellent dining, and cultural attractions. Scottsdale is known for its galleries and Old Town charm, while Phoenix boasts museums like the Heard Museum, dedicated to Native American art and culture, and the Musical Instrument Museum.
Cultural Hubs and Desert Charm
The climate in Arizona, particularly during the spring and fall, is perfect for exploring. The dry heat makes activities enjoyable, and the landscapes are at their most vibrant after spring rains. Traveling from Texas involves a longer drive compared to Louisiana or New Mexico, but it’s a classic Southwest road trip that reveals changing terrains and hidden gems along the way. Stops could include Big Bend National Park in Texas or White Sands National Park in New Mexico en route.
Phoenix and surrounding areas are popular in late winter/early spring, partly due to events like the Scottsdale Arabian Horse Show, adding a unique local flavor to your visit. This makes Arizona an exciting option for those looking for diverse experiences among the states to visit near texas.
Papago Park, Phoenix, Arizona, USA after sunset with hills in the distance and desert landscape in the foreground.Experience the desert beauty at Papago Park in Phoenix, Arizona.
Colorado: Reaching for the Rockies
Northwest of Texas lies Colorado, a state defined by the dramatic peaks of the Rocky Mountains and its thriving outdoor culture. It’s a haven for adventurers, nature lovers, and those seeking the crisp air of higher altitudes. Colorado is a popular destination among the states to visit near texas, offering a cool escape and stunning scenery.
Mountain Majesty and Urban Exploration
Colorado’s main draw is undoubtedly the Rocky Mountain National Park, with over 500 miles of hiking trails and breathtaking alpine views. But the state offers diverse experiences beyond the famous park. Explore other natural wonders like the unique landscape of Great Sand Dunes National Park, the ancient cliff dwellings at Mesa Verde National Park, or the stunning vistas along the Million Dollar Highway.
Denver, the capital, is a vibrant city with a thriving arts scene (Denver Art Museum), beautiful green spaces (Denver Botanic Gardens), and historic areas like Larimer Square. The city serves as a great base for exploring the nearby mountains and outdoor recreational areas.
Adventure and Relaxation
Colorado is a year-round destination. Winters are ideal for skiing and snowboarding in world-renowned resorts like Vail and Breckenridge. Spring and fall offer pleasant weather for hiking, exploring mountain towns like Estes Park, and witnessing stunning foliage changes. The state also has a strong craft brewery scene, offering a different kind of exploration after a day outdoors.
Driving from Texas to Colorado is a significant but manageable road trip, typically taking around 10-12 hours to reach Denver from Dallas. The journey often passes through parts of Oklahoma, Kansas, or New Mexico, showcasing the transition from plains to mountains. For those interested in local Texas travel tips that might inform their departure or return, resources like the best time to visit dallas could be useful.
Great Sand Dunes National Park, Colorado, USA with sand dunes in the foreground and mountains in the distance on a clear day.The unique landscape of Great Sand Dunes National Park in Colorado.
Other Accessible Neighbors
While Louisiana, New Mexico, Arizona, and Colorado offer significant and distinct destinations, other states to visit near texas or easily accessible by a reasonable drive include Oklahoma and Arkansas.
- Oklahoma: Bordering Texas to the north, Oklahoma offers a mix of Western heritage, Native American history, and burgeoning urban centers like Oklahoma City and Tulsa. Its landscape includes prairies, rolling hills, and lakes, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.
- Arkansas: To the northeast, Arkansas is known as the Natural State, featuring the Ozark Mountains, dense forests, and the unique thermal waters of Hot Springs National Park. It’s a state rich in natural beauty and offers a quieter, more relaxed pace compared to some of the larger states.
These states provide additional options for Texans or visitors to Texas looking to explore the diverse regions just next door. The possibilities for adventure are vast, whether you’re interested in nature, history, culture, or simply a change of scenery. For those considering romantic getaways, while the surrounding states offer plenty, don’t forget to explore honeymoon destinations texas has to offer as well.
Exploring the states to visit near texas is an opportunity to discover the incredible variety that exists within a relatively close proximity. Each state offers its own unique blend of landscapes, history, culture, and experiences, from the vibrant street life and culinary scene of Louisiana to the serene desert beauty of New Mexico and Arizona, and the majestic mountain adventures in Colorado. These journeys allow you to not just travel, but to live and breathe different cultures, expanding your understanding of the rich tapestry that makes up this corner of North America. So pack your bags, plan your route, and get ready to explore the amazing states that await just beyond the Texas border.