- 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
Heart of Texas
Highlights
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.
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.
Tour Starts:
Houston, Texas
Tour Ends:
Fort Worth, 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.
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
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
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