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Heart of Texas

Heart of Texas

Overview
Itinerary
Dates & Prices
Add-Ons
Photos
FAQs

Highlights

  • Explore two UNESCO sites of San Antonio, The Alamo and Mission San Jose also known as the “Queen of Missions”
  • See Ft. Worth’s National Historic District and explore the Stockyards Museum
  • Visit the Texas Ranger Museum
  • Explore Magnolia Market
  • Tour the iconic Dr. Pepper Museum in Waco

Big, bold, and unforgettable, Texas is a state where stories stretch as wide as the horizon. Your journey begins in Houston, home to a dynamic, global food scene, before drifting down to Galveston, where historic streets meet Gulf Coast breezes. In San Antonio, explore centuries of layered history, from Spanish missions to modern Texan culture. Fredericksburg offers a charming blend of German heritage, hill country landscapes, and local wineries, while Austin pulses with live music, creative energy, and legendary barbecue. In Waco, discover riverside charm and iconic cultural landmarks before heading north to Dallas, a city of striking architecture, arts, and innovation. Finish in Fort Worth, where cowboy spirit lives on in historic stockyards and classic Western traditions. Along the way, savor smoky barbecue and bold Tex-Mex flavors that make every stop deliciously memorable.

Activity level

  • Easy Going
  • Moderate
  • Active
  • Very Active
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Moderate

Designed for travelers comfortable with a mix of walking and sightseeing. Walking distances average 1 mile per day, with some extended periods on foot. May involve stairs, moderate inclines, and occasional uneven surfaces. Travel days may vary, with some early departures or longer sightseeing excursions. Suitable for those looking for a balanced blend of activity and relaxation.
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Tour Includes

Locations Visited

  • Houston
  • Galveston
  • San Antonio
  • Fredericksburg
  • Austin
  • Waco
  • Dallas
  • Ft. Worth

Hotel Accommodations

  • 8 Nights
  • Moderate hotels based on twin/double occupancy

Meals

  • 8 Breakfasts and 1 Dinner

Service

  • A professionally trained local tour director who is knowledgeable of the area and will provide you with a wealth of information. Their friendly service will make your trip a memorable experience.

Baggage Handling

  • To and from your hotel room throughout your land tour for one piece of Checked Baggage per person.

Add-Ons

Heart of Texas

Gio Rio Cruise & Tex Mex Dinner

Enjoy a leisurely cruise along the San Antonio river, followed by a sumptuous dinner!
Heart of Texas

NASA Space Center Houston

Learn more about space exploration and NASA’s incredible achievements!
Heart of Texas
Tour Starts:

Houston, Texas

Tour Ends:

Fort Worth, Texas

Heart of Texas
Day 1
Arrive in Houston

Welcome to Houston! If you purchased airline tickets from YMT Vacations, a friendly YMT representative will greet you at the airport and transport you to your centrally located hotel.

Hilton Houston Post Oak by the Galleria
Day 2
Houston

Today, you’ll go on a day trip to Galveston, a vibrant coastal city replete with opulent Victorian mansions and well-preserved historic buildings. Enjoy a panoramic tour of this charming island city, and then take a short and engaging walking tour of downtown Galveston. You’ll have time for lunch on your own, and some free time to go exploring at your own pace.

Meals: Breakfast

Hilton Houston Post Oak by the Galleria

Add-Ons: NASA Space Center Houston
Day 3
San Antonio

This morning, discover Houston’s towering skyline and historic buildings on a fun city tour, before making your way to San Antonio. Founded in 1718, this Texan city has a vibrant history, and is renowned for its amazing Tex- Mex food, lively downtown, and the San Antonio River that flows through its center. Today, you’ll enjoy a city tour highlighting San Antonio’s culture and history, and end the day with a tour of The Alamo, the UNESCO-listed 18th century Spanish mission and fortress—a historic landmark in its own right.

Meals: Breakfast

Hampton Inn San Antonio-Downtown (River Walk)
Day 4
San Antonio

Join us on a guided tour of Mission San Jose today. Established in 1720, it is known as the Queen of Missions and features the mysterious Rose Window, considered one of the finest examples of Baroque architecture. Enjoy the evening at your leisure or join your fellow travelers for an optional tour.

Meals: Breakfast

Hampton Inn San Antonio-Downtown (River Walk)

Add-Ons: Go Rio Cruise and Tex-Mex Dinner
Day 5
Austin

Leave San Antonio and proceed to Fredericksburg, a picturesque town known for its rich German heritage and fine wines. You’ll have time for lunch on your own, before heading to Austin. See the buzzing city’s key highlights on an included tour.

Meals: Breakfast

Hampton Inn Austin North
Day 6
Waco

Today, you’ll explore Waco, home to the iconic Dr. Pepper Museum! Take a tour of the museum and enjoy an included drink at the venue. Next up, head to the Texas Ranger Hall Of Fame and Museum, a must-visit for fans of history and the legendary law enforcement agency! You’ll then have a brief stop at Magnolia Market, a treasure trove of vintage goods, home decor and more. After your shopping spree, spend the rest of the evening at leisure.

Meals: Breakfast

Hotel Indigo Waco-Baylor
Day 7
Waco & Dallas

Before leaving Waco, stop at Waco Cow Statues, a beloved public art installation series scattered across town. Take some pictures and proceed to Dallas and enjoy a panoramic city tour.

Meals: Breakfast

Courtyard Dallas Arlington Entertainment District
Day 8
Fort Worth

Today, you’ll explore the many highlights of Fort Worth. Step back in time and immerse yourself in the cowboy spirit at the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District. Then, watch the legendary cattle drive, where herds of longhorn cattle are driven down the main street. Explore the Stockyards Museum in the heart of the historic district, and enjoy lunch on your own. Join us later this evening for an included farewell dinner!

Meals: Breakfast, Dinner

Courtyard Dallas Arlington Entertainment District
Day 9
Depart for Home

Meals: Breakfast

Please note that this is a proposed itinerary; the actual itinerary may vary due to season, special events, or weather. Hotels may differ depending on date. Because our tour arrangements are often made a year or more in advance, YMT Vacations reserves the right to alter the itinerary. Itinerary changes are made to improve your vacation experience, as well as respond to any unforeseen circumstances that mandate alterations. By their nature, all tour vacations involve a certain level of physical activity. While YMT tours have been designed with our guests in mind and are not physically demanding, this tour does include walking and periods of standing during the sightseeing visits. You will also encounter steps and some uneven ground along the way, particularly at older, historical sights. Please ask your Travel Consultant for more information.

YMT Vacations itineraries may contain suggestions for activities for your leisure time; these suggestions do not constitute a recommendation nor an endorsement of any specific service provider and the decision to participate in any such activities should be made independently.

All tour prices include taxes and fees.

This tour is no longer available.
Riverwalk, San Antonio
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas
Heart of Texas

FAQs

Can I arrange pre- or post-tour accommodations to extend my trip?

Unfortunately, additional nights are not available from YMT Vacations for this tour. Your YMT Sales Consultant will confirm the specific hotel related to your departure date, and you can then contact the hotel directly to arrange an extended stay.
Can this tour accommodate triples?

Yes, triples are permitted (depending on availability) in 2 beds.
I’m booking my own flights for this tour, what time should I arrive?

You should arrive in Houston no later than 5PM.
Will I need any visas or travel permits for this tour?

No, none are required.

Does YMT have any limits for luggage?

The YMT luggage allowance is one suitcase and one small bag per person, in addition to a small handbag or personal item. Due to capacity limits on vehicles, the standard maximum weight per suitcase is 50 pounds. The maximum size for a suitcase is 62 linear inches (sum of length, width, and depth). For example, suitcase cannot be larger than 30 inches by 20 inches by 12 inches. Luggage that is larger or heavier may attract extra fees, might not fit on the motor coach and may need to be shipped home.

The small bag cannot be larger than 12 inches by 11 inches by 6 inches and must fit in the overhead compartment or under the seat in front of you. To comply with safety regulations for motor coaches, mid-size buses, and vans, wheeled carry-on bags are not accepted as your small bag.  View our helpful packing guide here!  
What are the options when meals are not included in a day's itinerary?

Experience the joy of diverse dining options on your tour! For meals not included in the itinerary, you’ll have the chance to explore a variety of eateries, from charming mini-mall restaurants to convenient grocery stores, catering to all dietary preferences. While some hotels outside city centers may not have on-site dining, this opens up opportunities for delightful evening strolls, quick rides, or the convenience of ordering in. Enjoy the flexibility and adventure of discovering new places to dine.
What will the weather be like?

The weather in Texas will be fairly warmer with average temperatures between 65°F and 90°F during the months of May through September.

Add-Ons

Gio Rio Cruise & Tex Mex Dinner

Discover the soul of San Antonio on a leisurely river cruise. Take in the sights and sounds along the scenic riverwalk, and learn more about the city’s rich history and culture on this narrated cruise tour. Then, follow it up with a Tex-Mex dinner at Cafe Olé overlooking the river. Known for its fajitas and 60 oz margaritas, this restaurant comes alive with Mariachi music and a festive atmosphere in the evenings!

Inclusions

  • Go Rio River cruise
  • Dinner at Cafe Olé

Duration: Approx. 3.5 Hours (Evening)

Activity Level: Easy

Price: $99 USD

Heart of Texas
NASA Space Center Houston

Prepare for an immersive journey deep into space at the fascinating NASA Space Center in Houston. The group ticket will give you access to more than 400 attractions within the space center including two films, four live shows, the Independent Plaza and more. Plus, you can see iconic artifacts such as the Saturn V, the largest rocket that was ever built, at the artifacts galleries, and also enjoy interactive exhibits. Whether you enjoy the idea of space exploration or you want to learn more about NASA’s history and future endeavors, this self-guided tour promises to be eye-opening in so many ways!

Inclusions

  • Entrance to Houston Space Center

Duration: Approx. 4-4.5 Hours (Afternoon)

Activity Level: Active

Price: $35 USD

Heart of Texas

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