Step into the boots of Texas cowboys and cowgirls to experience the authentic Western lifestyle that has shaped the state for over 200 years. With plentiful ranches, historic districts, rodeos, and one-of-a-kind excursions, Texas offers a diverse range of Western experiences as timeless as they are unforgettable.
Visit a Guest Ranch
Texas is home to more than 100 guest and dude ranches, each providing a chance to live the cowboy life. Seasoned cowboys guide visitors on trail rides, overnight horseback adventures, and authentic cattle drives across sprawling ranges. Families can savor traditional cowboy meals under the stars, take a dip in swimming holes, glide down water slides, paddle canoes or take horseback riding lessons. At many ranches, guests can dive into the history and techniques of cattle herding, learning how to sort and pen livestock with expert ranch hands.
For a historical twist, George Ranch near Houston brings the past to life with monumental homes, costumed presenters sharing tales of the Old West, and hands-on activities like roping or blacksmithing demonstrations.
In Kingsville, King Ranch—one of the world’s largest—offers guided tours that explore its rich legacy, from its founding in 1853 to its modern cattle and wildlife operations. For a taste of rugged adventure, Wildcatter Ranch near Fort Worth spans 1,500 acres and blends excitement with relaxation, offering activities like archery, skeet shooting, and scenic trail rides for all ages.
And in the heart of cowboy country, Bandera—dubbed the “Cowboy Capital of the World”—shines in the Texas Hill Country with dude ranches featuring horseback excursions, hearty chuckwagon dinners, and a deep-rooted rodeo tradition. The Mayan Dude Ranch, for instance, serves up cowboy breakfasts cooked over an open fire, paired with Western entertainment. Nature lovers can also enjoy birdwatching and wildlife spotting along scenic trails, making these ranches a perfect blend of adventure and awe.
Cowboy Life in Texas
In the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, cowboy culture meets city life, offering a mix of historic and modern Western experiences. Dallas’ Pioneer Plaza boasts the world’s largest bronze monument—40 longhorn steers driven by three cowboys—capturing the spirit of Texas cattle drives. Nearby, the West End Entertainment District tempts with specialty shops, top-notch steakhouses, and Gilley’s Dallas, where you can test your grit on the mechanical bull made famous by Urban Cowboy.
For a true step back in time, saddle up to ride the historic Chisholm Trail, soaking in views of the Fort Worth skyline while reliving the days of the Old West. Fort Worth, known for its cowboys and culture, dazzles with museums like the Sid Richardson Museum, featuring cowboy art, the Amon Carter Museum, showcasing American masterpieces, and the National Cowgirl Museum and Hall of Fame, honoring trailblazing women. Sundance Square adds to the charm with more museums, art galleries, boutique shopping, and dining options steeped in Western flair.
In the Stockyards National Historic District, catch the Fort Worth Herd, the world’s only twice-daily cattle drive, then stick around for the Stockyards Championship Rodeo, held every Friday and Saturday night. And no visit is complete without a stop at Billy Bob’s Texas, the world’s largest honky-tonk, named “Country Music Club of the Year” eight times by the Academy of Country Music, delivering live music, dancing, and Texas-sized fun.
Rodeo Events
In the spring and summer months, Texas rodeo season kicks into high gear, drawing crowds with professional roping, riding, and barrel racing. These events also feature concert performances, lively carnivals, barbecue cook-offs, live auctions, and guided trail rides. The Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo, a winter tradition, dazzles with world-class competitions and livestock shows.
In February, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo blends rodeo action with cultural festivities, while March brings the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, one of the biggest events of its kind, attracting top entertainers and massive crowds. Springtime also welcomes Rodeo Austin, a family-friendly staple showcasing Texas talent and Western fun. These rodeos pack in high-stakes thrills and entertainment for all ages, embodying the state’s lively Western spirit.
Longhorn Cattle Drive
For an unforgettable adventure, join the semiannual Longhorn Cattle Drive at Big Bend Ranch State Park, held each spring and fall. Over three days, participants work alongside ranch hands to drive longhorns through rugged West Texas terrain, living the cowboy life and gaining a deep appreciation for its challenges and rewards.
From the excitement of rodeos to the peacefulness of a guest ranch, this state offers a wide array of Western experiences. So dust off your boots, grab a cowboy hat, and dive into the heart of cowboy culture in Texas.
