Texas in winter is a unique experience—think mild weather, festive events, and various activities ranging from cozy indoor retreats to outdoor adventures. Whether you’re a snowbird seeking sunshine or a local looking for seasonal charm, the Lone Star State has something for everyone. Here are 15 must-visit destinations for your winter getaway in Texas.
1. San Antonio River Walk
San Antonio’s River Walk becomes an awe-inspiring winter wonderland during the holidays. Thousands of lights drape the trees lining the river, and festive events like the Ford Holiday Boat Parade bring holiday cheer. Stroll along the pathways, sip hot cocoa, and explore the Alamo for a perfect blend of history and holiday spirit.
2. Big Bend National Park
Winter is one of the best times to explore Big Bend, with cooler temperatures making hiking and camping way more accessible than during the summer. Marvel at the stunning Chisos Mountains or drive along Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. Big Bend is just a 50-minute flight from Austin, making it the perfect destination to charter a plane and opt for a more luxurious getaway.
3. Fredericksburg
This Hill Country gem combines Old World charm with modern luxury. Explore Fredericksburg’s wineries, visit Enchanted Rock for a crisp winter hike, and enjoy festive Christmas markets featuring handcrafted nicknacks and traditional German treats.
4. Galveston
Galveston may be known for its beaches, but it also shines in winter with events like the Dickens on the Strand festival. The historic downtown district is adorned with Victorian-era decorations, while Moody Gardens hosts the Festival of Lights - a mile-long trail illuminated by two million lights themed to holiday music.
5. Dallas
D-Town offers plenty of indoor and outdoor activities throughout the winter. Explore the Dallas Museum of Art, shop for last-minute gifts at NorthPark Center, or ice skate at the Galleria Dallas. The city’s Holiday at the Arboretum event turns an activity associated with the summer into a fantastic winter wonderland for the whole festive period.
6. Marfa
Winter in Marfa means crisp desert air and stargazing under some of the most unpolluted skies in Texas. Visit the iconic Prada Marfa installation, enjoy minimalist art at the Chinati Foundation, or try spotting the famous Marfa Lights.
7. Waco
Waco’s Magnolia Market at the Silos is especially magical during the winter. Explore the holiday displays, shop for seasonal décor, and savor warm treats from the bakery. Nearby, the Waco Mammoth National Monument offers a prehistoric glimpse into Texan history.
8. Austin
For the last few years, Austin has consistently been seen as one of the fastest-growing metro areas in the U.S.A.; this trend shows no sign of stopping anytime soon.
Austin’s vibrant music scene continues to thrive in the winter months. Visit cozy venues like the Continental Club or warm up with a hot latte at one of the city’s many quirky coffee shops. For outdoor enthusiasts, Lady Bird Lake’s trails offer serene views, even in winter.
9. El Paso
El Paso boasts mild winter weather, perfect for exploring the Franklin Mountains State Park or hiking the El Paso Mission Trail, a nine-mile trail with a history of over 400 years. The city’s annual Scherr Legate Light Parade adds a festive touch, complete with light displays and local traditions.
10. South Padre Island
Voted as one of the best islands in the U.S.A. by Conde Nast Traveller readers in 2024, South Padre Island is a peaceful paradise as the winter season approaches. It provides a unique opportunity to enjoy the island without the crowds. Enjoy birdwatching at the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, or take a peaceful stroll along the Gulf Coast. Locals in the know often flock here for the warm climate and tranquil beaches.
11. Houston
Houston makes for the perfect winter city break. Its winter scene blends world-class museums, diverse cuisine, and a variety of festive events. Visit the Museum of Fine Arts or catch a performance at the Houston Symphony. Get into the Festive spirit with Zoo Lights at the Houston Zoo or the Christmas Village at Bayou Bend.
12. New Braunfels
Known across the States for its summer river floats, New Braunfels surprises visitors in winter with events like Wassailfest, a boozy celebration of mulled cider. Explore the town’s German heritage or relax in the warm waters of the nearby Comal River, which stays 72°F year-round.
13. Palo Duro Canyon
Palo Duro Canyon, dubbed the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” offers breathtaking landscapes year-round, but during winter, it’s like you have the place all to yourself. What’s more? Snow occasionally dusts the canyon walls, creating perfect Instagrammable shots. Hike the Lighthouse Trail or cozy up in a canyon cabin; either way, you’re sure to get incredible views.
14. Corpus Christi
Corpus Christi in winter means quieter beaches and wildlife watching. Visit the Texas State Aquarium, explore the USS Lexington, or take a scenic drive along Ocean Drive. Birding enthusiasts can head to nearby Padre Island National Seashore for a sanctuary for bird spotters and the marvelous birds who call this environment their home.
15. Boerne
Nestled in the Hill Country, Boerne offers a charming winter escape with a Christmas Concert, the annual Weihnachts Parade weekend, and a Stocking Stroll. Nearby, the Cibolo Nature Center offers over six miles of serene hiking trails for light winter walks after a period of serious indulgence.
Decades of Winter Destinations
There are so many unique Texas destinations for a winter break that you could return for years without ever visiting the same place twice. Texas offers a range of winter getaways to please the whole family; you can enjoy the ocean, the wetlands, and the desert beyond. The Lone Star State’s diversity is its strength, so don’t hesitate when booking your Texas Winter vacation.
