There are a lot of amazing cities in Texas, but everyone always seems to focus on Austin. Don’t get us wrong, Austin is great, but there are other cities in the Lone Star State that are worth exploring too!

Especially as the city scales at an alarming rate and the cost of living rises, it can be nice to explore other areas of Texas that are more affordable and just as fun. In this blog post, we will take a look at some of the best Texas cities that aren’t Austin. Whether you’re looking for a city with great nightlife, delicious food, or plenty of things to do, you’ll find what you’re looking for here!

San Antonio

San Antonio is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Texas, and for good reason! The city is home to the world-famous River Walk, as well as the Alamo. There are also a ton of great restaurants, bars, and shops lining the River Walk, so you can easily spend a day or two exploring the area. If you’re looking for a city with a great nightlife scene, San Antonio is definitely the place to be.

Odessa

Odessa might be smaller compared to some of the other cities in Texas, but it is still packed with charm and character. Do your research so you can know more about this area before you visit it in order to make the most out of your trip! Known for its vibrant arts scene, Odessa is home to the Ellen Noel Art Museum, a hidden gem that features rotating exhibitions from local and international artists. For history enthusiasts, the Presidential Archives and Leadership Library offers a deep dive into the leadership and legacies of American Presidents.

This city is also a paradise for outdoor lovers, boasting plenty of parks like the McKinney Park, perfect for picnics, and the Stonehenge replica, which is a must-see. Lastly, one cannot forget about the famous Friday Night Lights, a testament to the city’s passion for high school football. Indeed, Odessa offers a delightful mix of arts, history, and outdoor adventures, making it a worthy destination for travelers.

Houston

Houston is another large city in Texas that has a lot to offer. The city is home to the Houston Zoo, as well as the Museum District. If you’re into shopping, you can also check out some of the malls in Houston, like the Galleria or Bayou Bend. And if you’re looking for a great place to eat, Houston has no shortage of amazing restaurants!

When it comes to nightlife, Houston also has a lot to offer. There are plenty of bars and clubs to check out, so you can easily find a place to party the night away.

Dallas-Fort Worth

The DFW area is popular for numerous reasons. For one, it’s home to one of the most popular international airports in the country. Proximity to international travel makes it easy to get in and out of the city. It’s also home to a ton of great attractions, like the Dallas World Aquarium and the Fort Worth Zoo.

And if you’re looking for a place to shop, you can’t go wrong with the Dallas Galleria or the Fort Worth Stockyards. The city is also home to the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, which commemorates the assassination of President John F. Kennedy.

It is also home to the Dallas Cowboys, so if you’re a fan of football, you’ll definitely want to check out the city!

El Paso

One of the smaller cities in Texas, El Paso is often overlooked. But the city has a lot to offer! For one, it’s home to the Hueco Tanks State Historic Site, which is a great place to hike and explore. The city is also home to the El Paso Museum of Archaeology, as well as the El Paso Zoo.

And if you’re looking for a great place to eat Mexican food, El Paso has no shortage of delicious food options. The city is also home to the Sunset Heights Historic District, which is full of beautiful homes and gardens.

So if you’re looking for a city that’s a bit smaller, El Paso is definitely worth checking out!

Corpus Christi

Corpus Christi is a great place to visit if you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation. The city is home to the Corpus Christi Marina, as well as the Texas State Aquarium. And if you’re looking for a good place to eat, you can’t go wrong with one of the many seafood restaurants in Corpus Christi. 

The city also has a great nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and clubs to check out. So if you’re looking for a fun-filled beach vacation, Corpus Christi is definitely the place to go!

We hope you enjoyed this list of some of the best Texas cities that aren’t Austin. If you’re looking for a great place to live, work, or play, you’ll definitely find what you’re looking for in one of these cities.