8 Most Underrated Cities In Texas
One of the most distinct states in the country, Texas stands as a singularly intriguing destination. From the sheer size and diversity of the state, including both the geographic features and the cultural make-up, to the rich history of the frontier, the cowboys, and the Wild West, there is something on offer for every kind of traveler. While the Lone Star State is famous for its larger cities like Houston, Austin, and Dallas, the lesser-known cities have their own charm and distinctive appeal. Exploring these underrated gems not only provides a refreshing change from the mainstream tourist spots but also allows travelers to uncover the hidden treasures that make Texas truly exceptional.
Abilene
The original frontier town of Texas, Abilene is the perfect spot to experience the unique charms of America’s rich Western heritage. Nestled within the heart of the Lone Star State, the city boasts a captivating blend of history, culture, and natural beauty. It proudly showcases its cowboy legacy through museums, such as the Frontier Texas! and the 1910 Swenson House. The city's warm and welcoming atmosphere extends to its vibrant arts community, offering art galleries, theaters, and frequent cultural events such as the Western Heritage Classic rodeo. Surrounded by picturesque landscapes and open spaces, Abilene invites nature enthusiasts to explore its stunning parks and gardens like the idyllic Redbud, or the Grover Nelson Park which also features the Abilene Zoo.
Denton
Renowned for its creativity and progressive spirit, Denton is a hub of all sorts of culture in the north of Texas. The city's rich musical heritage is evident in its numerous live music venues, bustling bars, and thriving local music festivals, including the Denton Arts and Jazz Festival. As home to the University of North Texas, one of the country's top music schools, Denton attracts talented musicians and artists from all over, contributing to a lively and ever-evolving cultural landscape. Beyond music, Denton's art scene flourishes with a plethora of galleries, public art installations, and eclectic artistic events. Some of these include The Denton Black Film Festival, which shares the unique, and often untold history of a particular side of the cinema landscape, and the Denton Comic Art Exposition, which offers a place not just to celebrate the specific artform, but to engage with professionals and enthusiasts alike.
San Marcos
San Marcos is a one-of-a-kind destination renowned for its plethora of captivating outdoor activities, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and adventure seekers alike. At the heart of the city lies the crystal-clear San Marcos River, a true gem for water-based activities such as tubing, kayaking, and stand-up paddleboarding, providing refreshing escapes from the Texan heat. For those seeking natural wonders, nearby attractions like the stunning Jacob's Well and the lush Spring Lake Preserve offer breathtaking scenery and opportunities for hiking and exploring. Additionally, San Marcos is surrounded by a network of picturesque parks and green spaces, perfect for picnics, birdwatching, and relaxing amidst nature's beauty. The city's commitment to environmental conservation is reflected in initiatives like the San Marcos River Foundation, preserving the river's health and ecosystem.
Amarillo
Traveling far up north from San Marcos, in the vast expanse of the Texas Panhandle is the city of Amarillo, which offers panoramic vistas that seem to stretch endlessly, capturing the essence of the Great Plains. The iconic Cadillac Ranch, an art installation featuring a line of half-buried, graffiti-covered Cadillacs, exemplifies the city's artistic spirit against the striking horizon. However, it is the cowboy culture that truly defines Amarillo. Visitors can immerse themselves in the cowboy way of life by exploring the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum and attending the exhilarating performances at the Amarillo Livestock Auction. Embracing its Old West roots, the city hosts the Tri-State Fair and Rodeo, celebrating its western heritage and showcasing thrilling rodeo events.
Wichita Falls
Still in the north of the state and situated on Texas’ border with Oklahoma, Wichita Falls is known as the “Gateway to Texas”. The city is a hub for creativity, the city showcases its passion for the arts through various galleries, cultural events, and community-driven initiatives. Visitors can explore the Kemp Center for the Arts, a hub for visual and performing arts, where local talent thrives and artistic expression flourishes. In tandem with the arts, Wichita Falls boasts a wealth of historical architecture, reflecting its rich heritage. Downtown's century-old buildings, such as the Zales Building and the Kell House Museum, offer a glimpse into the city's past and showcase its dedication to preserving its history. Dating to 1919, the Newby-McMahon Building bills itself as the “world’s littlest skyscraper”, and is yet another way to experience the distinctly Texan history of the region.
Midland
A different slice of Texan history lies 4 hours to the southwest. The city of Midland is known for its deep-rooted connection to the oil industry and boasts a captivating Petroleum Museum, offering an immersive journey through the region's oil-rich heritage. However, it is the juxtaposition of this industrial legacy with a thriving arts scene that truly distinguishes the city. Midland’s commitment to nurturing creativity is evident through its multiple art galleries, theaters, and cultural events, such as the annual Summer Mummers, a melodrama and vaudeville-style show that has enraptured audiences for decades. Amidst the hustle of city life, Midland offers solace in its beautiful parks and recreational areas, such as the I-20 Wildlife Preserve and the Sibley Nature Center, where visitors can escape into the tranquility of nature.
Beaumont
Just east of the metropolis of Houston along the Gulf Coast, Beaumont offers a unique coastal experience with its picturesque waterfront, marshlands, and opportunities for fishing, boating, and enjoying serene sunsets over the water. In addition, Beaumont is known for its alligators, and visitors can catch glimpses of these fascinating creatures in their natural habitats within the Big Thicket National Preserve or at the nearby Gator Country Adventure Park. Beyond its natural wonders, Beaumont played a crucial role in the early 20th-century oil boom, which greatly influenced the development of the city and the entire region. The Spindletop-Gladys City Boomtown Museum offers a glimpse into this transformative period, showcasing the history of the oil industry and its impact on the community.
McAllen
Way down south, close to the Mexican border, McAllen enjoys a fascinating mix of Texan and Mexican influences, reflected in its cuisine, festivals, and cultural events. One of the city's most distinct features is its premier shopping districts, like La Plaza Mall, which draws visitors from both sides of the border, making it a bustling retail hub with a wide array of shops and boutiques. McAllen's strategic location also fuels its rapid growth, attracting businesses and industries, contributing to its thriving economy and development. As a result, the city has seen a transformation over the years, with modern infrastructure and a wealth of entertainment options, including world-class dining and entertainment venues. This unique blend of cultural influences, excellent shopping opportunities, and dynamic growth makes McAllen a vibrant destination in South Texas, and an excellent emblem of what is on offer in the less well-known cities of the state.
From the serene riverbanks of San Marcos to the cowboy culture of Abilene, each of these hidden gems reveals a facet of Texas that may go unnoticed amidst the more prominent destinations. These cities showcase the state's rich history, diverse cultural heritage, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Whether it is experiencing the vibrant arts scene in Denton, reveling in the stunning views of Abilene, or delving into the cowboy legacy in Midland, these cities have much to offer any traveler looking to experience all that Texas has to offer.
