A Lone Star state of mind, one brisket at a time.

Franklin Barbecue

Begin your pilgrimage at the temple of modern Texas barbecue. Arrive early and embrace the line, a communal experience in itself, before savoring what many consider the best brisket on the planet.

Photo by Franklin Barbecue

Texas State Capitol

Walk off the brisket with a visit to the magnificent Texas State Capitol. Taller than the U.S. Capitol, its stunning rotunda and historic halls offer a deep dive into the state's larger-than-life story.

Photo by N. Alex Johansen

The Broken Spoke

Don your boots for a night at one of Texas's most authentic dancehalls, serving up live country music and two-stepping since 1964. This is a true taste of old Austin.

Photo by Trevor Bush

Hotel San José

Rest up at this chic, minimalist boutique hotel in the heart of the vibrant South Congress district. Its lush courtyard lounge is the perfect spot for a quiet nightcap.

Photo by Hotel San José

Kreuz Market

Drive to the official 'Barbecue Capital of Texas' and visit Kreuz Market, a no-frills, no-forks institution since 1900. Order your smoked meats by the pound on butcher paper and savor the pure, unadulterated flavor.

Photo by Luz Avitia

San Antonio River Walk

Stroll along the world-famous River Walk, a network of stone pathways lining the San Antonio River. This urban sanctuary is an oasis of vibrant restaurants, shops, and lush landscapes one story below the bustling city streets.

Photo by Nitendra Gautam

The Alamo

Pay homage to Texas history at the iconic Alamo. Explore the historic mission and fortress compound where the legendary 1836 battle for Texan independence took place.

Photo by Giuseppe Baldi

Hotel Emma

Check into a stunning hotel housed in a former 19th-century brewhouse in the Pearl District. Hotel Emma masterfully blends industrial history with modern luxury.

Photo by Hotel Emma

2M Smokehouse

Experience the unique fusion of classic Texas BBQ and Mexican-inspired flavors. Try the brisket alongside specialty sausages like Oaxaca cheese & serrano, and don't skip the pickled nopales (cactus).

Historic Market Square

Immerse yourself in the vibrant sounds and colors of the largest Mexican market in the United States. Explore three blocks of shops and stalls offering everything from handmade leather goods to festive folk art.

Photo by Ray Boshold

Gruene Hall

Take a short drive to the oldest continually run dance hall in Texas, located in the charming Gruene Historic District. Catch a show where legends like George Strait and Willie Nelson have played, and soak in the authentic, time-worn atmosphere.

Photo by Gruene Hall

Cooper's Old Time Pit Bar-B-Que

Make a detour into the Texas Hill Country to the original Cooper's. Experience their 'cowboy-style' service where you choose your meat directly from the pit before heading inside to douse it in their famous BBQ sauce.

Photo by W M

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

Step back into the Old West at the historic Fort Worth Stockyards. Witness the world's only twice-daily cattle drive, wander down brick-lined streets, and explore shops filled with Western wear.

Photo by Brenda Ramirez

Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection

Stay at a rustic-luxe hotel that embodies the spirit of the Stockyards. The decor is inspired by the legendary cowboys who drove cattle to market, offering a perfect blend of history and modern comfort.

Photo by Hotel Drover, Autograph Collection

Goldee's Barbecue

Visit the unassuming spot that Texas Monthly crowned the #1 BBQ joint in the state. Goldee's serves classic Central Texas-style meats with exceptional sides, representing the pinnacle of the new generation of pitmasters.

Kimbell Art Museum

Experience world-class art in an architectural masterpiece designed by Louis I. Kahn. The Kimbell's intimate galleries and remarkable collection provide a serene and inspiring contrast to the trip's smoky flavors.

Photo by Krisztián Hegedűs

Billy Bob's Texas

End your trip at the 'World's Largest Honky Tonk.' With a massive dance floor, live bull riding, and concerts from country music's biggest stars, Billy Bob's is an unforgettable, quintessentially Texan finale.