Unique places to vacation in Texas

Native Texans are always proud to claim our Lone Star State heritage, and we're quick to share our familiarity with the state's history and geography. But even those of us who are fluent in Texan may find that there's some hidden nook left to discover, or maybe just a small town we can't get enough of.

There's "weird" Marfa, a far west town stuck in the hippie era, one with a drawl. The growing popularity of this odd, art installation-filled town has some residents concerned that it will soon become another tourist destination with souvenir gift shops proffering flashy key chains. So get there soon, and opt to stay in a yurt, teepee or tent (pictured in the slides above).

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Other Texas vacation destinations center on the beauty of the state's natural springs, mountain ranges and cattle-grazing plains. Some of these have become home to family-owned bed-and-breakfasts that offer guests an authentically Texas experience complete with horseback rides and bacon-filled breakfast dishes.

When exploring our 268,820 square miles of land, it's important to keep in mind some smart road trip tips.

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"If you are taking a road trip, leave some time open so you can stop along the way at things of interest, like the bluebonnets or a history marker," Cheryl Jones of Custom Travel in Houston said.

Since this is Texas, temps often sit in the three-digit range from June to August. Jones reminds families to keep hydrated.

"If possible have a cooler in the car with you so you can drink as you travel," Jones said. "Use your sunscreen and wear a hat if you are doing outdoor activities."

For winter travel, dress in layers. Climate changes drastically from the Gulf to the panhandle and back.

Most of all, we'd recommend exploring beyond the tourist destinations in the state's major cities and staying in privately-owned places that support the state's economy and enhance the state's culture.

Have any interesting Lone Star State locales to suggest? Leave them in the comments.

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