If you need a quick trip to get away, West Texas is an overlooked destination.
CNN compiled a report of the 25 most underrated U.S. destinations that included several in Texas.
“The vast region is still sparsely populated, home to wide open spaces and a couple of the nation’s wildest national parks: Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains,” CNN said about West Texas.
Tourism in Texas is great for the economy. According to the Texas Travel Alliance, travel earnings had an impact of $72.9 billion on the economy. U.S. World and Report ranked Dallas as the most popular tourist destination, with Big Bend National Park and Fredricksberg trailing behind, respectively.
West Texas is a large region that covers Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Mountains and UFO towns. You can roadtrip to destinations with plenty of camping opportunities.
West Texas towns worth visiting:
Marfa
Known for: art, Marfa Mystery Lights (unexplained phenomenon where red, white or blue lights appear in the sky)
Town population: 1,725
Stay options: Carmen Boutique Hotel, Cibolo Creek Hotel, El Cosmico, Marfa Yacht Club
Terlingua
Known for: Chisos Mountains, ghost town, Chili Cookoff (first Saturday every November)
Town population: 154
Stay options: RV and tent camping
Big Bend National Park
Known for: Chisos mountain range, Chihuahuan Desert, Rio Grande River
Visitors: 463,832
Stay options: Chisos Mountain Lodge, Rio Grande Village Campground, Chisos Basin Campground, Cottonwood Campground
Fort Davis
Known for: U.S. Army Fort, Davis Mountains State Park, Indian Lodge, Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center, Botanical Gardens, McDonald Observatory
Town population: 924
Stay options: Hotel Limpia, Fort Davis Inn and RV Park, Davis Mountain RV Park, Mountain View Lodge, Harvard Hotel, Prude Ranch
Alpine
Known for: Scenic beauty, murals, walking tours, star gazing
Town population: 5,927
Stay options: Antelope Lodge, Holland Hotel, The Maverick Inn, Hotel Parker, Alpine Bed and Breakfast
