What better way to mark this month’s 180th anniversary of Texas’s independence then by embarking on the ultimate Texas road trip (mapped out above)? To commemorate our terquasquicentennial five years ago, we plotted out 175 of the most significant historical and cultural sites across the state. The 6,000-mile journey, which begins at a riverbank in Glen Rose and ends on the south steps of the Capitol, is not an insignificant undertaking—i.e., it’s the kind of epic trek that requires a lot of time and fuel (and Dr Peppers) to complete. Even though you’d earn enduring bragging rights for completing this tour in one fell swoop, it’d also be easy enough to break it into more manageable chunks so you can explore Texas one region at a time. (And there are plenty more ideal Texas road trips to consider as well.)
And whether your next destination is in the next county or on the other side of the state, I encourage you to turn your drive into a mini history lesson on wheels by downloading the following apps:
Texas Time Travel Tours // to bring history to life with images, videos, interviews, and visitor info for historical sites across the state
iOS | Android
Texas Historical Markers // to scout out interesting historical markers up ahead
iOS | Android
(See also, TX Historical Markers, available on Android only.)
I’m also thrilled to report that the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has just released a new app to help you plot (and locate and get driving directions to) your next trip to any of our 95 state parks….
TPWD’s Texas State Parks Official Guide // to pinpoint your next fishing/hiking/camping/boating getaway and find trails, cabins, showers, and more
iOS | Android
Plus, a few of my go-to apps that aren’t Texas-specific:
Livetrekker // to track your paths and share your routes with friends
iOS | Android
Roadtrippers // to find notable sights and quirky attractions on your way from Point A to Point B
iOS | Android
NOAA Hi-Def Radar // to keep a close eye on Texas’s infamously fickle weather
iOS ($1.99)| Android ($2.99)
