Texas trails self-drive tour

One of the best places to visit today is the Houston Space Center. Today you've got a chance to explore the interactive exhibitions, technological displays and fascinating aeronautical artifacts. With a large number of permanent and temporary exhibits and attractions, the Houston Space Center is a haven for those intrigued by America's space program.

Collect your hire car and head to the historic city of San Antonio. Founded in 1691, by Spanish missionaries, San Antonio is an attractive, old colonial city that has played a pivotal role in Texan history. On arrival, once you're settled, we can highly recommend a walk down the picturesque River Walk, crisscrossed with stone bridges, cobbled paths and some delightful restaurants.

San Antonio is home to one of the country's most famous sights and the state's most popular attraction, The Alamo, where a few hundred Texan revolutionaries fought for independence against thousands of Mexican soldiers. Located right in the heart of the city, all that is left of the original mission is the chapel and the Long Barracks, both of which transport you right back to the moment that Texan independence was fought for. While you're in the city, you may also wish to visit the McNay Art Museum, housed in an exquisite Moorish-style villa.

On the short drive from San Antonio to Austin, you can visit Gruene, a quintessential and well-preserved Texan town. Stop for lunch in Lockhart, the barbecue capital of Texas. On arrival in Austin, be sure to soak up the authentic music and food scene that inhabits the city. We particularly love an evening stroll by the river to watch the bats fly out from Congress Avenue Bridge.

Austin, the fascinating state capital, has an incredibly laid-back and independent atmosphere. Few would dispute its claim as the 'live music capital of the world' and there are many live music venues in town for you to enjoy.

Another day to explore quirky Austin. You may wish to visit the Texas State Capitol, an imposing building that is taller than the US Capitol Building in Washington, D.C. Spend the rest of the day exploring the peaceful sculpture gardens and historic homes that dot the city.

Head north from Austin through the farmland of the north Texas Hill Country en route to your ranch getaway. Spend two nights at one of the most authentic Dude Ranches, learning all about ranching in the state.

Ranch stays offer a wealth of activities, including options for daily horse riding and exploring the trails on foot.

A short drive takes you to Fort Worth. The Stockyards area of Fort Worth, with its wooden sidewalks and old storefronts, is where you can still see cowboys on horseback driving cattle, a daily spectacle here, subject to the weather, much to the delight of onlookers.

Today you are free to enjoy more of the sights and sounds of the Stockyards full of saloons, Wild West theme shops and steak restaurants. Tonight we recommend taking advantage of the famous Stockyards Rodeo before heading on to Billy Bobs for live music and line dancing.

Today you could take the drive out toward Southfork Ranch to visit the set of Dallas and take a guided tour of the area. Not only is this an iconic place to visit, but it provides the opportunity to drive to and through Texas farmlands which are beautiful and a great contrast from the bright lights of Dallas.

There is still time for some last-minute sightseeing before making your way to the airport in time for your flight home.