Right now the weather in Texas is pretty great, which makes it an ideal time to enjoy some of the best places and events our state offers. From autumn leaves to seasonal wine and cider to annual historic festivals, fall in the Lone Star State is second-to-none.
So if you’re looking to take in some amazing sights and events over the next couple of months, but you aren’t sure where to begin … Consider this list for an idea or two. Creating the best Willie Nelson and George Strait playlist for the road trip is up to you.
10. Become a Leaf Peeper in Lost Maples
Home to arguably the state’s most vivid and spectacular annual foliage displays, Lost Maples State Natural Area in the Texas Hill Country is a must on any fall Texas bucket list. Comprising 2,000+ acres on the Sabinal River, Lost Maples offers a magnificent backdrop for hiking, birding, fishing, and mountain climbing; but its biggest draw is its autumnal scenery. Attributable to the high concentration of maple trees within the area, superior leaf gazing opportunities are available to the public from late October through mid-November.
9. Get Schnitzel-Faced at Wurstfest
Texas has a strong German influence, so it’s no surprise that one of the best Oktoberfest events outside of Bavaria occurs every fall within the Lone Star State. Deliciously described as a “10-Day Salute to Sausage,” Wurstfest is the perfect opportunity for Texans to experience authentic German music, dancing, beverages, turkey legs, and brats! From November 4th-13th, 2022, thousands of people will descend upon New Braunfels to celebrate Texas-German culture. Put on your cowboy boots and lederhosen this fall, and know your expenditures will help fund some worthwhile, local projects throughout the rest of the year.
8. After Lives Matter. Take a Haunted Tour
Cemeteries, pubs, hotels, historic buildings … If you’re a fan of the supernatural and spooky—or you just want to experience some new locales with your drinking buddies—Texas has a hearse-load of haunted tour options. From guided walks to Segway outings, let a local guide show you some of the Lone Star State’s creepiest places and share a few eerie stories along the way. You may have trouble sleeping afterwards, but you’re sure to learn a little about the esoteric and mysterious side of Texas history.
7. Drink Your Apples at a Cidery
Here’s some in-cider information: If the arrival of fall prompts you to mull-over nature’s top picks, you’re sure to appreciate the grown-up version of apple juice when you visit a Texas cidery or taproom. A gluten-free alternative for beer lovers, cider continues to gain immense popularity across our thirsty state. So whether you’re sampling Outlaw Cider in Grapevine, Moon Tower Cider in Austin, or Houston Cider Co. on the Bayou, Texas offers a diverse and ever-growing bushel of options that will surely a-peel to you.
6. Prefer Wine? Make a Pour Decision in the Hill Country
Martha’s Vineyard may have snagged a few headlines of late; but for a weekend of unsurpassed fun and stunning Hill Country views, nothing beats a wine getaway in the spectacular Texas Hill Country. Whether you’re exploring Austin, Fredericksburg, Lampasas, or New Braunfels, the area is home to over 50 excellent wineries. For a totally stress-free trip, book a tour, and all you’ll have to ponder is which cheeses pair best with the glass(es) you select.
5. ‘Tis a Ren Faire Thing! Taketh a Trip to the Texas Renaissance Festival
Step back in time to when kings and queens ruled the land. At the Texas Ren Fest, you can dress-up as a lady or a lord (or an elf) while taking in medieval culture, food, music, and more. Each weekend in October and November this annual fall festival introduces a different theme (e.g., Oktoberfest, 1001 Dreams, Pirate Adventure, All Hallows Eve, Heroes and Villains, Barbarian Invasion, Highland Fling, Celtic Christmas). The festival opens weekends October 8, 2022- November 27, 2022.
4. Go Camping; Take Nothing but Photos
The crackle of a campfire. The smell of roasting marshmallows. Fall in Texas is a great time to hit up a hiking trail or to spend a night camping under the stars. Texas State parks are often teeming with wildlife in October, to say nothing of some incredible views. So whether you’re an uncompromising glamper or an adventurous outdoorsman, there’s nothing like experiencing an overnight adventure at one of the many camping options in Texas.
3. Immerse yourself in a Colorful Día de los Muertos Celebration
Día de los Muertos takes place this year November 1; but from late October through early November, Texans will celebrate this Mexican holiday that remembers loved ones who have passed. Several virtual and in-person Texas cultural events will feature musical performances, art exhibits, and more. And while these six Texas cities plan to commemorate the event in big ways, don’t make the mistake of overlooking the many other Día de los Muertos festivities across the state that are sure to showcase the rich heritage, culture, and historical traditions embodied by the holiday.
2. Visit a Pumpkin Patch
Jack-o-lanterns, hot cider, camp fires … no matter your penchant, a pumpkin patch is a great place to snap some photos, grab a few gourds, and breathe in the beautiful fall Texas air. In a state as large and glorious as ours, the best pumpkin patches go above and beyond the average church parking lot. Many offer train rides, corn mazes, live music, face painting, and celebratory festival atmospheres. Check out this list for some of the best pumpkin patches in Texas.
1. Attend a Texas Nationalist Movement Event or Meeting
The Texas Nationalist Movement (TNM) has given a home to hundreds of thousands of Texans who believe Texas will be better off as an independent nation. With local meetings held all over the state, you’ll find a TNM social happening, meetup, and/or outreach event in your community this fall. Check out the TNM website for multiple opportunities, and add some Texas nationalism to your autumn calendar!