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Top 5 Hidden Road Trip Destinations in Texas

This article is written by a student writer from the Her Campus at UNT chapter.

Summer is almost here, and that means road trips! Why go to another state, when you live in Texas? Everything’s bigger in Texas… right? Let’s explore some road trip options right in our own backyard. These destinations are different than your typical summer vacation. These destinations offer a peek into Texas’ prehistoric past, or even the creation of Dr. Pepper Company. Whatever your preference may be, here are some off-the-wall road trip destinations you should definitely take advantage of.

Photo by Texas Parks & Wildlife

Dinosaur Valley State Park in Glen Rose, TX:

Long, long ago dinosaurs left their mark in the mud near an ancient ocean. Today, humans can also walk in their footsteps! The footprints of these majestic creatures are still visible today. This road trip destination will bring out the childlike spirit in all of us. This destination will surely make you feel like you’re on the set of Jurassic Park.

Photo by Barton Creek

Campbell’s Hole in Austin, TX:

This beautiful swimming hole offers relaxation and fun. Get your friends together to roadtrip to this world-famous swimming hole. This place takes a bit of a hike to get to, but it is so worth it. Families will often flock to this attraction in large numbers. It is recommended to head their as soon as possible in the early morning. This swimming hole is one of Texans’ best kept secrets!

Photo by Quanah Parker Trail website

Quanah Parker Trail in the Texas Great Plains:

This trail offers a tranquil walk through history. This trail is most known for its connection to the Comanche native tribes of the great plains. Quanah Parker Trail offer trail guides online, which make it ideal for planning a road trip. The amazing thing about this trail is its versatility. Feel free to choose different pit stops that spark your interest. All the sites hold historical significance to the legendary chief, Quanah Parker. Memory lane is up on the next exit!

Photo by Roadside America

Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo, TX:

This art site is quite the pitstop. This site is located in the panhandle area of Texas. This strange art exhibition offers 5 cars oddly stuck into the soil. Fellow road trippers are encouraged to bring a can of spray paint. So on your next road trip, leave your mark! Literally.

Photo by Groupon

Dr. Pepper Museum in Waco, TX:

Dr. Pepper is a cult favorite soda in Texas. In addition, this museum also holds the title of oldest soft drink manufacturer in the entire United States. Another interesting fact is that the soda they create is made with Imperial Cane Sugar, rather than corn syrup. How neat! Overall, this museum offers 3 floors of interesting artifacts and history on Texans’ favorite soda. This site is definitely a staple when visiting Waco. Afterall, what Dr. Pepper die-hards wouldn’t want to explore this museum?

Marissa is an Communications Design major at University of North Texas. She aspires to positively use her artistic abilities to create Advertisements and/or Marketing materials that convey a strong message.
Orooj Syed is a senior at the University of North Texas, majoring in Biology and minoring in Criminal Justice. Between balancing her academics and extracurricular activities, she enjoys finding new places to travel and new foods to eat. Writing has always been one of her greatest passions and, next to sleeping, she considers it a form of free therapy.