Part of our Texas guide.
Texas events and seasons vary from spring-fed swimming holes to fall color trails and the state’s biggest music festival. The best time to visit depends on whether you want summer heat, autumn leaves, or spring break crowds.
Related travel guides: Events And Seasons In Florida, Events And Seasons In California, Events And Seasons In Japan, and Events And Seasons In Georgia.
Silver Spring
Silver Springs, Texas, is a lesser-known spot with clear water and quiet trails, ideal for a half-day visit. It sits away from the main tourist routes, so you can often have the swimming area to yourself on weekdays. Pack a picnic and arrive early, as the small parking area fills by mid-morning on summer weekends.
Secret Spring-Fed Rivers And Grottos
Texas’s spring-fed rivers and grottos stay cool year-round, with water temperatures around 70°F even in July. The San Marcos River and Comal River are the most accessible, but hidden grottos near the Hill Country require a short hike and a bit of scrambling. Always check local access rules, as some springs are on private land or close seasonally for wildlife.
Spring Lake
Spring Lake in San Marcos is the headwaters of the San Marcos River, and its glass-bottom boat tours run daily from10 a.m. to4 p.m. The lake is home to rare species like the Texas blind salamander, which you can spot through the boat’s viewing windows. Scuba diving is allowed only with a permit and a guide, and the dive season runs from March through October. The spring’s outflow is a constant72°F, so the water feels brisk even in August.
Christmas Mountains
Located near Big Bend National Park, the Christmas Mountains offer rugged hiking with no marked trails—just desert washes and rocky ridgelines. The best time to visit is from October to March, when daytime highs stay below80°F. Carry at least a gallon of water per person, as there are no reliable springs on the main routes. Camping is primitive and free, but you must pack out all trash.
Austin City Limits Review + Festival Guide: All You Need To Know
Austin City Limits (ACL) takes place over two consecutive weekends in early October at Zilker Park, with gates opening at11 a.m. and music ending by10 p.m. daily. The festival features eight stages and more than100 bands, and single-day tickets go on sale in May. For the best sightlines, arrive at the Barton Springs East entrance by noon and head to the Tito’s stage early—headliners draw huge crowds by7 p.m. Bring a refillable water bottle; free water stations are located near the food vendors.
Hidden Fall Color Trails
Lost Maples State Natural Area is the top spot for fall foliage, with peak color usually hitting in the first two weeks of November. The East Trail is a4.6-mile loop that passes the park’s oldest maples, and Garner State Park’s1.1-mile Crystal Cave Trail offers golden cypress views along the Frio River. For a less crowded option, try the2.5-mile Hill Country State Natural Area trail near Bandera, where red oaks mix with juniper. Arrive before9 a.m. on weekends, as parking lots fill by late morning.
South Padre Island - Texas' Spring Break Haven
South Padre Island’s spring break season runs from the second week of March through mid-April, with the biggest crowds during the last two weeks of March. Beach access is free at all public entrances, and you can rent umbrellas and chairs for about$20 per day from vendors near the main drag. For a quieter experience, head to the north end of the island, where the beach is less developed and sea turtles nest from April through July. The island’s average high in March is75°F, with water temperatures in the low60s—fine for wading, but a wetsuit helps for serious swimming.
