texas

Davey Crocket said it best: “You may all go to Hell, and I will go to Texas.” Not only is Texas one of the biggest states in the United States, but it also has some of the biggest state pride around. Texas is not just a place to live—it’s a lifestyle. Texans will brag about their bluebonnets, their Blue Bell, and most especially, their barbecue. People will wait in line for hours if it means they will leave 100% satisfied. Closing times on signs are hardly enforced because these barbecue joints are normally sold out of food before it’s even time to lock up for the night. The barbecue business is booming right before our eyes (and stomachs).Because there are too many barbecue establishments in Texas to count, we rallied up some of the top favorites in one area: Dallas. We highly recommend entering these places with your stretchy pants on, because you won’t want to stop eating until you’ve been induced into a meat coma. But don’t take our word for it—get out there and try them for yourself. If you gain a pound or sixteen, we understand. It’s happened to the best of us. Enjoy, and yeehaw! Cattleack Barbeque Texas Monthly ranks Cattleack Barbeque as the third best joint in Texas. In the renowned magazine’s own words, “Prepare to feel the earth move.” They typically complete an order every fifty-one seconds, so there’s no time to dillydally. They move fast because everyone wants a bite.Hutchins BBQHutchins BBQ is not only one of the best in the state, but it has also been voted one of the best in the world. This father-and-son duo definitely knows how to stand out in the crowd. It’s a must-have if you’re in town. Also, don’t forget to grab a “Texas Twinkie” (a brisket- stuffed jalapeño wrapped in bacon). You’ll thank us later.Pecan LodgePecan Lodge is one of the finest in the state. This barbecue is from passed-down, secret family recipes. Between wood and pas- sion, this place runs 24/7 to give their customers the best meat possible. What started as a little stand at a farmer’s market has turned into a food sensation. If you don’t stop by, you will most definitely regret it.Feedstore This family-owned barbecue joint is exactly what your taste buds have been craving, whether you knew it or not. What was once a feed store has turned into the Feedstore that many know and love today. If there’s one thing you absolutely need to order here, it’s their fried okra. It will be some of the best you’ll ever have. Photo by The Rocketeer

Museums are known for being educational experiences. Some people might even say they are life-changing. Most museum-goers are used to viewing art or other artifacts behind glass. But have you ever been to an extremely quirkymuseum, one that went against the norm? Search your area for the nearest museum; you might be surprised by what there is to learn. Photo by Jonathan Noechel-ShunnHastings Museum of Natural and Cultural HistoryThis museum’s biggest attraction is the Kool-Aid exhibit. Have you ever wondered who invented the delicious drink? Or what its old packaging looked like? Or what flavors are now discontinued? A large part of this museum is all about Kool-Aid and the history behind it. Come learn and take a picture with the Kool-Aid Man himself. Photo by vickisee.comSalt and Pepper Shaker MuseumFounder Andrea Ludden loved her mother’s collection of salt and pepper shakers so much that Ludden decided to make a museum out of all the different kinds of seasoning partners out there— over 20,000 to be exact.The shakers are organized by category and color. From shakers that look like multiple different items on a McDonald’s menu to almost every US president, if there’s a certain shaker duo you’re looking for, it’s more than likely in Tennessee.

The United States is teeming with exotic state fairs and funky festivals. At these celebrations entertainment comes in all shapes and sizes with roller-coasters, Ferris wheels, horseshoe tournaments, and barbecue cook-offs. In these lesser-known American fairs the main attractions are animals—but not just any animals. Far from the run-of-the mill horse shows and bull-riding rodeos, these exotic fairs feature less conventional sources of entertainment, from wiener dogs to worms.

Fried butter anyone? Discover what fun attractions you should see and fried food you should eat at some of the nation’s top-rated state fairs.

The carvings on the church at Mission San Jose are beautiful examples of Spanish Baroque architecture. (Theresa Davis)Three hundred years ago, this mission teemed with life as a center of religion, commerce, and family.

The Whooping Crane is one of the rarest birds in America. Photo by Evangelio Gonzalez. ccWhen winter arrives in Texas, it doesn't come alone. As the new season approaches, hundreds of migratory species, from whooping cranes to monarch butterflies, migrate into Texas, blanketing the Great Plains. Adding to the commotion of winter's arrival are Texas's summer residents, such as the Mexican free-tailed bats, who prepare to darken Texas skies on their way home to Mexico. These wondrous migrations, whether northbound or southbound, paint surreal images that cause spectators to stop and enjoy nature's beautiful creations. By Weston Goggins

Picture it. New York City. Tickets to a special concert at Carnegie Hall. You walk through the renovated main levels with a sense of awe for all the history breathing within this space. As always, the season lineup is varied—children’s concerts, local orchestras, and big-name performers. For its season opener in October 2014, the Berliner Philharmoniker will honor the hall.

Bronc riding is just one of the exciting events that you can watch at the Mesquite ProRodeo.The man who walked over to our table was tall. He bent forward, hovering over my newly delivered Texan steak. “I’m putting $20 in the band’s tip jar to see you do the chicken dance.” I was left staring dumbfounded as he walked over to the stage, put in the $20, and made his request to the country band—all before I could utter a response.

“Keep Austin Weird” is an unofficial slogan for Austin, Texas—and the locals take it very seriously. The city prides itself on its eclectic, creative atmosphere that fosters small businesses and supports artists, musicians, music festivals, and pretty much anything independent.