English 
German Starting in Dallas, we head deep into the Texas countryside - to places you would never have expected to find in Texas. Which stops are really worthwhile, how to plan and where to find the best BBQ.
A trip to the USA has always felt like a safe choice: welcoming people, exciting sights, and unique culinary treats that are so special, you’re glad not to encounter them too often at home. It’s an adventure that’s sure to leave you with great memories!
The world feels upside down right now, and I’ve been hearing reactions such as: “You’re traveling to the USA of all places?” and “Aren’t you worried about entering the country?” – I’ll share my thoughts on that later in this article. Despite everything, I still love exotic destinations, and surprisingly, Texas definitely qualifies as one for me.
I spent about a week exploring Texas with Travel Texas, one of the most iconic states in the USA. It wasn’t always smooth sailing, especially with the tense political climate hanging over us. But as the saying goes, there are two sides to every story. With destinations like Texas, it’s important to keep an open mind and appreciate the adventure for what it was: a lively, unforgettable journey.
Epic Entertainment in Grand Prairie
Grand Prairie is located exactly between the two Texan metropolises of Dallas and Fort Worth – and thus also near Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), one of the largest airports in the world.
Hey, I’m Tatiana & the blogger behind The Happy Jetlagger. I write honestly, passionately and authentically about my travels. All tips have been researched by myself!
Zavala’s Barbecue
Our road trip starts with an impressive introduction to Texan barbecue culture: At Zavala’s Barbecue, award-winning brisket awaits us, but their other house specialties like ribs or jalapeño cheddar sausages are equally outstanding.
Epic Central
My impression of Grand Prairie is certainly shaped by Epic Central, a recently created, family-friendly entertainment complex featuring an indoor water park, a bouldering gym, hotels like the Hilton Garden Inn at Epic Central*, green spaces, and a dining area.
Traders Village
In Grand Prairie, you’ll also find Traders Village, the largest flea market in the USA. With many street food stalls, a large stage for live music, and numerous rides, a real fairground atmosphere emerges here every Saturday and Sunday. If you’d like to enjoy a peaceful browse through the incredible selection of over 3500 vendors, try to arrive early!
Where to Eat in Grand Prairie
My food recommendations for Grand Prairie include Vidorra for upscale Mexican cuisine in a trendy setting, and Chicken N Pickle for snacks and drinks after a game of pickleball on the courts nearby. For a brunch spot, I suggest the Good Day Café – just be prepared for Texas-sized portions!
More tips for Grand Prairie: Click here for the complete guide to Grand Prairie
Grapevine: Perfect Stopover in Dallas
If you ever find yourself needing to kill time at Dallas/Fort Worth Airport but don’t feel like hanging out at the airport itself, you can escape to Grapevine for a few hours or even an overnight stay.
The Trinity Metro TEXRail takes you directly from the airport to the historic center of Grapevine in just 10 minutes, where you’ll find some charming boutiques, cafes, and restaurants along Main Street.
Harvest Hall
Right at the train station, you should make a stop at Harvest Hall, a large dining area with many food stalls. Harvest Hall is part of a replica of the former train station building, which also houses a charming boutique hotel, the Hotel Vin*. A great tip if you ever need to stay overnight near the airport.
Prefer to stay directly in the city? Find hotels in Downtown Dallas here*
Vintage Railroad Tour
From the train station, you can switch to a short tour on the historic train, which takes you through the vast landscape of the Cotton Belt and sends you on a small journey back in time to Grapevine’s past.
Book tickets for the Vintage Railroad Tour here*
You can find more tips for Grapevine here: Click here for the complete guide to Grapevine
Lubbock: Art & Culture in the Texas Panhandle
Lubbock is about 560 kilometers from Dallas and is famous for being at the heart of one of the world’s biggest cotton-growing regions. As you drive toward the South Plains of Texas, you can really see the area’s farming roots. The road ahead feels like it goes on forever, and the large fields on either side stretch out as far as the eye can see. Every now and then, a tiny village pops up, so small that you almost miss it!
Looking for even more exciting travel tips for the USA? Click here to discover exciting travel destinations across the land of opportunity, all ready to inspire your next adventure: All posts on destinations in the U.S.
Art District
Although Lubbock seems very remote, the city surprises with a young, art-interested scene: I would never have thought it possible that I would take a pottery class in the newly created Art District in Lubbock, right in the middle of the Texas Panhandle.
Where to Stay in Lubbock
Hotel tip: The Cotton Court Hotel* – a very pretty boutique hotel where you can stay in rooms designed in the style of old cotton barns.
By the way: Here’s my full guide to Lubbock
Caprocks Canyon State Park
If you’re more into nature, I recommend a detour to Caprocks Canyon State Park. There you can not only admire the wild nature around the canyon with its impressive red cliffs, but also observe wild bison.
Caution: In the summer months, it gets very hot here – pay attention to the warnings from the park rangers. Avoid hot days and equip yourself well with water and sun protection. The risk of sunstroke or even heatstroke should not be underestimated. As an alternative to various trails, there is also a Scenic Drive that takes you by car through part of the park.
Amarillo: Route 66 & Cowgirl Moments
Before my trip to Amarillo, only Tony Christie’s old hit came to mind: “Is this the way to Amarillo?” But did you know that Amarillo is also a stop on the famous Route 66? Having already explored some places along this once important main thoroughfare in Illinois, I was even more surprised!
Historical Route 66
The historic Route 66 is now located right in the middle of Amarillo and is lined with small antique shops, quirky second-hand stores, and charming cafes.
There you’ll find interesting shops like the atmospheric Aunt Eeks or Chapterhouse Books, whose owner advocates for the rights of the LGBTQ+ and migrant communities in the area, offering a vital safe space to marginalized groups.
Cadillac Ranch
Also a tribute to the important significance of Route 66 is the Cadillac Ranch, which is located next to today’s Interstate Highway I-40.
The vibrant art installation features ten Cadillacs embedded vertically in the ground, accessible free of charge. Visitors are encouraged to leave their mark by graffiti on the car bodies, causing the installation’s appearance to evolve continuously.
Cowgirls & Cowboys in the West
If you want to channel your inner cowgirl or cowboy, I recommend a trip to Cowgirls and Cowboys in the West just outside the city.
Owner Phyllis decided, after a successful career in the hotel industry, to trade business life for a life on her Los Cedros Ranch. The special thing is: On the farm, almost exclusively genuine cowgirls work instead of cowboys.
After a brief introduction, you can ride horses here like a real cowgirl or cowboy, which owner Phyllis lovingly rescued, partly from other ranches, and now gives them a new home. Additionally, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Palo Duro Canyon, the second-largest canyon in the USA.
Helpful Tips for your Texas Road Trip
Is a Car Necessary for a Trip Through Texas?
Absolutely. Especially if you want to leave major cities like Dallas, Houston, or Austin, you won’t manage without a car. The USA is known for driving culture, and Texas takes that to another level.
What to Consider when Renting a Car in Texas?
An EU driver’s license is all you need to rent a vehicle! Rental cars typically feature automatic transmissions, making driving a breeze. Plus, parking and navigating are quite manageable, even in busy city centers.
What is the Entry Process for the USA like?
I entered the U.S. through Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, and honestly, there’s not much exciting to say—just the usual routine: long wait times, immigration officers looking very serious and asking detailed questions. Just when I feel about to lose my nerves out of sheer respect, I’m greeted with a warm smile. The officer might even share a little joke, and in that friendly, typically American way, they wish me a pleasant stay. Before I know it, I’m in, and the entire entry process goes smoothly—no problems at all.
ESTA or Visa: What You Need to Apply for before Entry
I have a tourist visa for the USA, but it’s only nice to have and not a must. Otherwise, with a German passport you only need to apply for an ESTA. It’s easy to do online, currently costs 21 US dollars and is valid for two years if your passport doesn’t expire before then.
I personally feel that the current discussions about entering the USA are heavily influenced by the present political climate. That said, entry has never really been an exciting experience, even under different administrations.
Having a German passport that grants access to nearly all countries can sometimes lead to feeling a bit frustrated when facing challenges. I personally experienced being thoroughly questioned twice by border officials in a different country; I still suspect it might have been due to racial profiling, as my diverse ancestry is quite noticeable. Because of that, I completely understand why some people prefer not to put themselves through the risk of detailed interrogations at borders. Ultimately, it’s best to form your own opinion and consider your own situation when making decisions.
Should You Travel to the U.S., or Specifically to Texas, Now?
If your political stance is a reason why you’re asking yourself this question, you should carefully consider whether a trip to a rather conservative state like Texas is for you. Sometimes, in conversations with locals, their views do come to light, and if you have a strong opinion of your own (and/or, like me, a Latin/South American/general migration background), that can certainly become a challenge.
However, I think there are always counter-movements that one can join – and these are worth discovering and supporting.
In my opinion, now really is one of the best times to visit the USA. Popular spots that are often packed with tourists are much quieter these days, and with the dollar being so affordable, it’s perfect for a relaxing and enjoyable trip.
In any case, you should keep an eye on current events and adjust your travel plans accordingly. Check the website of your country’s Foreign Office, watch the news and be vigilant – but this also applies to pretty much any other destination.
Here you’ll find all articles about Texas
Disclaimer: I was invited by Travel Texas, the official tourism organization of the State of Texas, to join this trip for research purposes.
*Links marked with an asterisk (*) are affiliate links. If you book or buy something through them, I will receive a small commission. Thank you for your support!
