Fall’s cool embrace is about to gently sweep over Texas, providing an inviting backdrop for those eager to immerse themselves in this vibrant season’s myriad activities and adventures.
From luxuriant landscapes gradually shifting to rich hues of autumn to lively events enveloping various locales, the Lone Star State unfolds a tapestry of experiences waiting to be explored.
Roadtripping Across Nature’s Canvas
The serenity of autumn is splendidly displayed through the kaleidoscopic fall foliage in Texas — be sure to take some time to enjoy it.
The Smoky Mountains’ prediction map serves as a reliable source for timing your views of this natural spectacle during road trips across the state.
Changing leaves won’t hit their peak until around mid-November.
To best take in the sights, forgo driving yourself and instead book a trip on Vonlane, the Dallas-based luxury bus operator. There are over 430 departures each week from hubs in cities like Dallas, Houston, and Austin, with tickets starting at $119.
Hit one of Texas’ state parks to make your trip a full nature experience, with hiking, camping, and other recreational activities on offer.
Tour Texas named Garner State Park, Lost Maples State Natural Area, Daingerfield State Park, Dinosaur Valley State Park, Lake Bob Sandlin State Park, McKinney Falls State Park, and Tyler State Park as offering the best eyefuls of warm reds, yellows, and oranges.
Head to the Coast for Mysteries and Sandcastles
There is a lot in store for travelers along the Gulf Coast this month.
October brings a celebration of fall and a tinge of the mysterious to Corpus Christi, with the Heritage Park Museum presenting an eerie exploration of haunted houses.
Moreover, the USS Lexington’s “Haunting on the Blue Ghost” gives guests a glimpse of its spectral secrets on Fridays and Saturdays throughout the month as well as on Halloween for $30 per person. The tour is spread out over 80 compartments on two decks of this historic vessel.
Those who are truly brave can check out the old Nueces County Courthouse, an abandoned historic building that whispers tales of the supernatural.
Further south, the shores of South Padre Island will continue to bask in perpetual summer. Taking advantage of this, the large beach bar Clayton’s will host its 35th annual Sandcastle Days from October 5-8. It is free and will feature family-friendly activities, live music, art booths, and food for purchase.
Next, the South Padre Island Convention Center will see a whole lot of fun roll through its doors. The Chrome in the Sand Festival will be held from October 19-21, offering a bike show, a car show, an array of displays, and different competitive activities to engage attendees of all ages.
Central Texas Legacies and Libations
Beginning in Waco, the Magnolia Silobration marks its 20th year with an all-out event promising a blend of shopping, live music, and culinary delights from October 19-21.
Deeper in the heart of Texas, the Hill Country invites visitors to bask in luxury at the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa, with private cabanas offering an opulent poolside experience.
While there, consider taking advantage of October being Texas Wine Month. Texas Hill Country Wineries is extending an invitation to traverse through 45 local wineries with their Texas Wine Month passport for $80 per person or $120 per couple.
The event will allow visitors to pair exploration with exquisite tastings throughout Fredericksburg, Johnson City, and New Braunfels.
The lure of the capital is also strong this October, with the renowned Austin City Limits Music Festival at Zilker Park being held from October 6-15. The event will see captivating performances from an array of genres. Some big names include Shania Twain, Mumford & Sons, Alanis Morrisette, Kendrick Lamar, and the Foo Fighters.
Austin gives you a reason to extend your stay with the high-octane Formula 1 United States Grand Prix at Circuit of the Americas from October 20-22. Attendees will be at the center of thrilling races and potentially witness racing history with Max Verstappen in the driver’s seat.
Boozy Staycation in North Texas
As recently reported in The Dallas Express, Dallas-Fort Worth has a number of beer and wine events in store this month. Why not keep the suitcases in storage and check out the local festivities for a little staycation?
Among the activities is the Sound Beer and Wine Feast, offering an unforgettable tasting experience to adult attendees on October 14. General admission comes with a dozen samplers of wine or beer, with full pours and additional samples available for purchase.
There’s also the sixth annual Plano Food and Wine Festival at Legacy West on October 21.
This widely celebrated event promises gourmet flavors, award-winning wines, and lively entertainment. Wine pass holders will have the exclusive opportunity to taste 20 wines from prestigious wineries and receive a signature Plano Food and Wine Festival glass.
