40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (2024)

The top stops along the way from San Jose to McKinney (with short detours) are The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, Fortuna Waterfall, and Texas Capitol. Other popular stops include Fort Worth Stockyards, AT&T Stadium, and Natural Bridge Caverns.

1

Samara Beach

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Beach

Outdoor Activities

Samara Beach is a popular beach destination with a horseshoe shape, ideal for swimming and sunbathing. The beach offers various amenities such as nearby shops and restaurants catering to tourists. It is important to note that some freelance parking personnel may ask visitors for a small fee to use their service. Visitors can enjoy delicious food at places like La Casita de Mr Wagner or drinks at the restaurant with access to the beach offering stunning views of the sunset.

Beautiful beach, very long. The northern portion is easier for swimming, in the southern portion waves are bigger and better for surfing.

Louise W — Google review

Amazing place for a short or even long vacation. I was living in Sàmara and I had the best times. I could definitely live there.The beach is great, the people are so lovely, the village is small but very nice.You find delicious restaurants or homemade food - it’s a perfect surfing spot for beginners, for intermediates in the surroundings also - great hiking spots - waterfalls nearby - the best sunsets - island life on isla chora :) - full moon parties - what else? :) I think Sàmara is one of the most beautiful places I’ve been!!!! ❤️❤️

Carolin P — Google review

Cute little town and a beautiful beach. Came across a great Italian restaurant “Ahora Si”. Nice area to get away to.

Ashlee — Google review

This beach was a great find. It is pretty touristy so be warned if you are looking for a more local-like atmosphere. There are also those freelance parking guys walking around so you might have to pay a couple hundred colones to buy some peace. We ate at La Casita de Mr Wagner and it was delicious. We also drinks at the restaurant with beach access and blue umbrellas directly across from that food courts. My friend and I both agreed they were the best versions of each drink that we had ever had (mojito and piña colada). What a good place and pretty good location. We drove from Monteverde no problem.

Cassidy C — Google review

I almost don’t want to write a positive review because I love Playa Samara so much, I’m dreading some day it will lose it’s magical, small, locally-owned, bohemian beach appeal. The waves are great for surfing newbies to intermediates, playing in the sand or drinking a tropical beverage from one of the nice restaurants right on the beach. I ❤️ Samara 🏝️

Christine L — Google review

Beautiful beach! Such a large beach that you will have no problem finding a spot away from people. So many little restaurants along the beach. Small park next to the police station has freshwater showers. If you need to escape the sun or heat there are quite a few trees that line the beach to set up under. Saw surfers and horses.

Cee D — Google review

Fantastic beach, very clean, decent amount of parking. Very kid friendly. Great sunsets.

Rajeshkumar J — Google review

Great mix between tropical paradise, chill atmosphere yet very convenient with nice restaurants and a bit of shopping.

Karsten L — Google review

Very beautiful. Less crowded than other beach towns like Tamarindo. Very warm water. Worth the drive.

Kay W — Google review

A nice and quiet beach, great for walking, lots of little beach restaurants. Watch out for jellyfish in the waters.

Alice C — Google review

It’s in the top 3 best beaches of our trip in Guanacaste region. Playa Samara is a wide & long crescent beach that stretches for several kms. Fine sandy bottom beach & the waves are gentle most of the time…great for swimming for all ages. It’s perfect for surfing lessons or boogie-boarding. There are small villages along the beach with the town of Samara being the largest. Lots of beachfront restaurants, places for surf lessons, equipment rentals & souvenir stalls. There’s a good snorkeling spot in the tidal pools at the north end of the beach. During our stay we found Playa Samara fairly empty but it gets quite busy on weekends and holidays. It would be ideal if you can stay in Samara for a night or two. We stayed for a month and aside from our ventures outside of Samara, we fully enjoyed the town and its surroundings. It has complete amenities but still has a laid back atmosphere. At no time did we ever feel unsafe while exploring the area.

May E — Google review

Lovely not too busy beach and town. It has an small island and a rock/coral break to protect the bay from large waves. There's still waves good enough to work on your surf board skills. Lots of restaurants and accommodations for vacations. Many expats live there.

Barefoot M — Google review

In December the water is really nice and warm but not like a bath water so it's refreshing. Easy waves so you are able to swim or just float. I visited for the day and found an area under some trees with shade to sit on a towel. It looked like you could rent chairs and boogie boards on the beach. Not crowded on a Monday.

Chad — Google review

Great beach. Nice sand, nice chilled vibes . Perfect waves for beginners to surf the white water as the waves crash from a distance and roll slowly towards the shore . My 12 and 10 year old just learnt how to surf and they caught plenty of waves on their own.

JAMIE T — Google review

Fun beach with quite a few restaurants. Town is right near the beach. Walk the entire length of the beach during low tide. Occasional wild horses. Some decent fishing and shells.

Katy S — Google review

Lovely beach with a relaxing atmosphere. Lots of nice bars and restaurants around as well.

Lisa K — Google review

The water is really nice and you are able to swim . The water is warm . But there should be more sitting areas .bring a towel to sit on the floor . There are couple of stores and restaurants around the area .we stayed the resort near we tried to walk but it was unsafe the roads are to narrow and grass is on slant. Will recommend ask the resort to book a taxi for your travel there . It cost us $10 to get there .

Garthigga Y — Google review

My favorite beach, not too busy, great selection of restaurants lining the beach, waves not too big that you can enjoy the water.

Glenn B — Google review

I took a TEFL course here. Everyone is super friendly. Felt very safe. Food was good, water was great. Prices are high, and just know it's extremely hot in April. So get a hotel with a nice pool and air conditioning.

Sandy M — Google review

Beautiful, vibrant, and spacious beach with a good number of people—not overly crowded. Many surf rental shops right by the beach, as well as beachside restaurants/bars. Volleyball and soccer fields available. A safe beach, perfect for beginner surfers and boogie boarding.

AnotherPerspective — Google review

4.6

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4.5

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Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

2

Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve

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Nature preserve

Nature & Parks

Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Monteverde Cloud Forest Biological Preserve is a vast expanse of lush, tropical forest that boasts an extensive array of flora and fauna. Orchids, ferns, and an abundance of wildlife can be found throughout the reserve's various mountains, valleys, and rivers. Guided tours and walking trails allow visitors to explore this unique ecosystem while taking in breathtaking views from the miradors. The forest's tree-level clouds create a distinctive environment that sets it apart from other nature preserves.

Beautiful, the experience was surreal. One of the most biologically diverse private reserves I have ever visited. Be sure to visit in March or April as it can get very busy during the high season. If you're lucky you can spot some animals! However, the main attraction was the diverse plant life and fauna.

Kynan S — Google review

Monteverde is a unique biosphere full of different species of birds and animals , some very unique to cloud forest. This place is quite isolated and could take time to reach depending on road and weather. However it’s totally worth it. You will be rewarded with extra ordinary views and scenery. If you want to find birds or snakes, it’s highly recommended to hire a guide, they exactly know how to find the right places to spot and also you learn a ton of things

Kaushik G — Google review

These forests are so interesting and easy to navigate. Well maintained accessible paths lead you into another world. The canopy is teaming with life. Maybe, if you arrive early enough, you might catch a glimpse of the elusive camouflaged wildlife. Or just enjoy the diverse flora and fauna all around you.

Jessica B — Google review

This stunning biological preserve is a must see if you are visiting Costa Rica. This cloud forest transports you back in time to a world untouched. Witness many beautiful flowers and tress, colorful and rare birds, and monkeys climbing thru the trees. See the lush waterfall and walk across the red suspension bridge for wonderful canopy views. I recommend visiting for more than one day, there is a lot to see, take in, and enjoy!

Thomas R — Google review

The Cloud Forest was a magical place. There is no parking by the way closer to the park so we paid $5 to park like 1.3km away and then we took a shuttle - but it was okay. The hike took us to a small waterfall to the left followed by a beautiful epic walk through the cloud forest to the right. The miradors are just phenomenal. Highly recommend.

Jonathan D — Google review

Very beautiful park with good hikes. Unfortunately when we went, it was very cloudy and we could not see anything from the viewpoints. But hiking in between their reserve is amazing. You can make it a couple of hours visit, by just doing the main trail, or you can spend the full day there as well doing all the hikes. In the entrance they also have a good restaurant. They offer parking for additional 5 dollars. It is located about 5min before the park and there is a little bus taking people from the parking lot to the park entrance and vice versa. It is well organized.

Bernardo E — Google review

Absolute MUST, MUST, MUST visit. The trails are well planned and safe. They’re not too difficult and rugged but you are still immersed in nature. We decided not to get a guide as we had limited time. We managed to do all of the trails in about 3.5 hours, of course stopping for pictures and to bask in nature. The top of the trail that leads to the Continental Divide is spectacular. There’s no jaw-dropping views because the views are CLOUDS! At the top, you are standing amongst the clouds, which I thought was pretty cool.Buy your tickets in advance, if you’re not with a tour group. If you’re driving, they have a parking area ($5 per car in advance when you book the ticket) about 5 minutes from the actual park. They provide the shuttle bus that comes every few minutes. There are free parking spots along the road leading up to the park on either side, but space is limited, not guaranteed and could be difficult to get in and out of, so proceed with caution if you decide that route.

TravelingGayPanda — Google review

Very interesting place! Even though (but maybe because) it was raining towards the end when we visited, the experience walking thru the forest with its very specific vegetation was great. The suspension bridge is a pretty cool place, walking high up above the ground. Really likes it.

Matthias L — Google review

Lodge and front of house staff were perfect. Ended up being extremely affordable as breakfast, lunch and dinner are included with your staff. Food at the lodge cafe was great and the cafe staff were all super friendly and loved to chat about the wildlife. So happy being able to sleep somewhere with the sounds of the jungle all around you. Highly recommend. You also get a discount at the gift shop and access to the trails is also included in your stay.

Nicole W — Google review

If you are in the area, do not miss this. I highly recommend taking a guided tour. I was in a group of only two people with a terrific guide, Mauricio. He has worked there for about 15 years and he is just full of knowledge. He also has an uncanny ability to spot cool birds and set up his equipment so you can see them too. He was also very kind and fun. The surroundings are stunning, I learned so much about the local plant and animal life and the things that make the cloud forest so special and unique. Walking through there gave me a sense of the timelessness of nature and strongly clarifies how important these environments are to all life on earth. Beautiful and thought provoking experience.On the way out stopped at the hummingbird area and that was super fun. If you've never had hummingbirds whipping past your head, you will want that experience before you die.

Cheyenne S — Google review

Amazing!This was a beautiful park. We visited in September which is the rainy season but we got there early and so were able to hike all the trails before the afternoon rain. We opted not to pay for the tour or a guide and were still able to see a lot of different plants, animals, and insects. It was very peaceful and quiet and we didn’t see anyone else for the first hour we were there. I imagine that will be different in the sunny season. This is well worth the $25 each.

Ben S — Google review

This was one of my favorite things we did in Costa Rica, top 3 for sure! Although I like this kind of stuff, it was quite, beautiful, and all the plants and fungi were amazing. We enjoyed our time walking around, just wish we had more time, I would say give yourself 2hrs to walk and see the bridge and waterfall and take in the beauty of the place.

Josh L — Google review

We were probably rushing, but completed most of the trails ( waterfall, bridge and the deck with a view) within 2.5 hours. I recommend spending way more time in this beautiful reserve, but if you are short on time you'll still see a lot of cool things.

Oleg P — Google review

A rain free walk through the forest was enjoyed for about 4 hours. We didn’t get a guide, and we didn’t see much wildlife. But we enjoyed the forest and a keeping our own pace. Had a warm drink to break up the day. Parked at the trailhead for free no problem.

Sarah W — Google review

Beautiful tropical forest. We were able to see some animals while in the trails.Off street parking was easy on a weekday. Tickets are sold per day so worth going and spending the full day there.

Julio V — Google review

The location is aesthetically pleasing, however, the cost is slightly excessive. We appreciated the diverse plant and animal life, as well as the peaceful atmosphere. The staff members were exceptionally friendly and accommodating.

VCR R — Google review

Beautiful place! Must include when visiting Costa Rica. Well maintained and clear hiking trails. They have posted signs at various locations to educate you on local flora and fauna. I’d recommend Hiking shoes or shoes with non slippery soles.

Roli G — Google review

Listen closely here...Hire a guide! You'll be glad you did. Ours, had 18 years experience and was incredibly helpful. We reserved online, and our guide was waiting for us at the entry gate. You'll need to park at the established parking lot down the road from the main gate area, (restrooms are available), where the shuttle will pick you up and drop you off at the entry and gate area. We spent two hours walking the trails...with our guide and his spotting scope...(looking straight up 99% of our time). Now I understand why there's a massage table at the lodge. Haha we didn't see as much as we thought we would. A sleeping Sloth, a coiled viper snake, and some interesting bird species, but nothing like we thought...and I guarantee...we wouldn't have spotted anything on our own. The canopy is just too thick and high...remember, hire a guide. It's worth the time, energy, and the pot filled gravel roads to come here though. It's a special place for sure...get here while ya can!

Richard W — Google review

This place was full of life! It was a little confusing to get to with a rental car, but we stopped at the official parking lot and a a bus ran every 15 minutes to and from the reserve. It was cool to be in the clouds and it was quiet. We came to spot monkeys but instead saw so many other things, including a baby capybara! Will spend more time here on my next visit.

Sarah V — Google review

I went to Costa Rica a couple of years back and I have so many photos that I wanted to share them. I booked an Airbnb that was like 10 to 15 minutes walking distance. I walked the entire reserve. Spectacular, you can feel in Gods perfect nature, away from everything. True blessing to have gone there. Thank you Jesus!

Karen V — Google review

We bought our tickets very early morning so we would have the whole place to ourselves. Took many great photos and the clouds looked like fog. The greenery was great and the red bridge fit perfectly in photos. Highly recommend getting tickets early morning. Also, there was a restaurant that had hummingbird feeders and we got many good pictures of hummingbirds.

Unseen — Google review

Monteverde was amazing! We did two separate visits. For the first visit, we did a self guided walk during the day. There was a lot of uphill hiking so definitely prepare for that! The staff was super kind. There was a guy named Michael who was super nice and he showed us a snake!! We saw tons of cool birds along with a coati. The hummingbird garden was also cool. There were TONS of them. If I went again I would definitely go with a guide to see more wildlife.We also did the night tour with Andre. This was amazing and I would definitely recommend! Our group had 6 people total and we saw monkeys, an owl, a viper, spiders, a coati, a frog, and bioluminescent mushrooms!

Kaitlyn T — Google review

This was worth the money. We did see monkeys in the entrance.Entry was $25 per person and $5 for parking at a lot with a shuttle to take you to the preserve.It was worth the money, trails were well marked and well maintained.We saw a lot of wildlife.

Kiersten H — Google review

Beautiful forest and not too crowded! Great views from the Mirador. Make sure to come in time as there are always 3h slots that fill up quickly. I think 7 am is the first and I went at 9 and had to wait till 10:30am to enter the park!

Felix I — Google review

We spent a wonderful wet and cloudy day in the reserve. We walked virtually all of the trails ( about 13km) and hardly saw any wildlife at all!Seriously, it was the perfect way to experience the Cloud Forest. Whilst some blue skies and a view of the Continental Divide would have been ideal, it was just amazing to be able to spend a day walking through the lush, green forest and ferns, and experience one of the rarest habitats on earth.We did see some spider monkeys very briefly and caught a glimpse of a pair of Resplendent Quetzals, but other than that, just greenery.If you really want to see wildlife, you maybe disappointed, especially if it's raining. Go to experience the forest.We got their early (7.30am) and paid at the reception to get in. ( Didn't need to book in advance) We didn't use a guide.The trails are really easy to follow and we'll signposted so it's very hard,if not impossible, to get lost. There are some less popular narrow and steep trails where we felt alone and very peaceful. We loved those!Your entrance receipt means you can go in and out as many times as you want in a day. So if you want to walk some trails, then come out and have lunch in the cafe, and go back in, that is allowed. The cafe has humming bird feeding stations so you can watch them while you drink your coffee!

Bruce L — Google review

Absolutely worth the trip up the winding, dirt roads to this ecological wonder. I didn’t do a guided tour, opting instead to hike and tour the grounds by myself. Interpretive trails still provide lots of information along your path. I spent about 3 hours exploring the trail system, listening for birds and observing the diverse array of nature that makes up the rare Cloud Forest. I would gladly go again and spend much more time here. Admission is $26 and parking is $5, unless you arrive early enough to park along the road.

Jake G — Google review

We went on the 6am birding tour. Our guide was amazing and very knowledgeable. He helped us take pictures and identify the birds. We got there before the park opened and were able to park right outside the gate. Between the time the park opened at 7am and 7:40am, the park reached capacity, and they had to close their sales. Get there early! The hummingbirds are just outside the main park by the cafe.

Crystal M — Google review

In all honesty I did not choose to do a guided tour of this forest. I’m on a budget and therefore I did a self guided tour and it was excellent. I didn’t see many animals but the hike was lovely. Great viewpoints and a nice 6km route

Shiva N — Google review

I can’t describe the beauty. We had a guide our first day. Eduardo Leitón who is from the area and speaks perfect english. He was so helpful and knew so much about the history of the area and could identify every bird and plant and animal. Go early and take your time so you can listen and watch. Take your binoculars and your Merlin app to identify birds.

L K — Google review

Better to arrive at 7.30AM to maximise the chance of seeing the birds having their breakfast.If you arrive by car, there is the official parking located 1.3km away from the park. There is a shuttle going back and forth (every 20min) between the parking and reception.The cost parking+shuttle is 5$

Viros S — Google review

Fantastic place for viewing all of the amazing plant and wildlife of the cloud forest! I would highly recommend hiring a private guide as they can find so much more than you could on your own. We were lucky enough to see two Resplendent Quetzals on our guided tour thanks to Tony!

Jeff P — Google review

4.5

(4998)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (11)

4.5

(3845)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (12)

Puntarenas Province, Monteverde, Costa Rica

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40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (13)

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Fortuna Waterfall

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Nature & Parks

Waterfalls

Nestled within a lush tropical forest, the Fortuna Waterfall is a stunning natural wonder that boasts a 70-meter cascade into an inviting pool. Visitors can explore the diverse plant life and beautiful orchids and butterflies along the segmented walkway, and enjoy refreshments at the on-site cafe. While not particularly challenging, those with mobility issues may find it difficult to navigate the series of stairs leading to the bottom of the waterfall.

So first off $18 to enter which trust me is worth every dime. Then it’s 500 steps down. Those go pretty quick and there’s a few vantage points to take pictures on your way down. Once down there is a benched area to sit and change if you like but no shelter the changing rooms and showers are at the top before the steps. The rocks are slick and the water is very refreshing. The current for the waterfall is strong. But it’s nice and plenty of rocks to take pictures. But if you wanna hang out and enjoy the water the small pool to the left is where you wanna be.

Desirae A — Google review

Beautiful place with beautiful view to enjoy with friends and family. National pay 9$ foreigners pay $18. It's about 500 steps to go to the waterfall but there's many chairs on the way so that you can rest if you are tired. You can swim if you want water is 🥶. I really enjoy my visit.

Christina B — Google review

This place is so beautiful! It was our second time there and it's just breathtaking. We went in July 2024 during the rainy season, so we couldn't swim in the waterfall, but we still did the river. The water was freezing, but it felt amazing. Just make sure you're in good shape, because those 500+ steps are no joke. Going down is easy, but coming back up is a lot harder. But it's totally worth it!

VCR R — Google review

A great waterfall and a great workout!We have visited twice now, and this majestic waterfall is always worth it. Plus it's great cardio coming back up the 500 stairs!We went at a crowded time, so get there earlier if you want less people.We brought plenty of water, water shoes and quick dry towels, all of which make the experience more enjoyable.The water is chilly but refreshing!Avoid going too far to the right side. There is danger of rocks falling. And don't get too close to the falls, there is a lifeguard there, but you can tell it's likely a strong under current.

Diana L — Google review

Beautiful waterfall with a swimming area at the bottom. I loved seeing the plant diversity. The walk to the bottom is a series of stairs, thought not the most difficult hike, it would be hard for those with mobility issues and your calves may feel it the next day. There is a segmented walk for orchids and butterflies. The cafe at the start has a decent selection of drinks and food.

Timothy T — Google review

This was a nice morning hike, though expensive, in my opinion. ($18/ person). Many people swim in the stream. The water is cool and refreshing. Note, there are 500 stair steps down and of course back up. We 60 plus did it easily.

Jean R — Google review

The walk up and down is not as bad as everyone makes it sound! You can do it! I swear! If you're visiting for a few days, watch the forecast and try to choose a cooler day. We were there in July, and def a cooler day made a huge difference!We're not really in shape people but we did just fine. I can't believe we almost skipped this place because everyone made it sound so grueling.Everyone mentions the 500 steps because it's on signs along the way! So it's very fresh in their minds and they're saying it because they're proud of themselves.The stairway is well designed. It's very easy to pass people who need a break. So you don't feel pressured when *you* need a break. There are seats at a few spots.I think it took us 10 - 15 min to go down and maybe 30 to go up. Our kid went up in like 20 min. We took it extra easy. Honestly, you can do it.Def worth the visit! It's a very impressive waterfall!

Suruchi K — Google review

Lots of stairs so if you have mobility issues, will be a challange. Nice waterfall with a few different swimming holes. Not to busy on our cloudy day visit. I'm sure some days it is crazy. A decent stop some other falls maybe more impressive.

Grant I — Google review

Well worth the admission cost! Takes about 15 minutes to hike down and 30 to 40 to hike back up. 500 steps/600m. Take your time! The water is chilly, but refreshing. Great photo ops. Beautiful to see up close. Highly recommend. There's a spot just past the waterfall that's safer to swim in than at the base too.

April M — Google review

It was an awesome experience visiting Fortuna Waterfall. After a nice climb to the parking lot, you will be able to immediately start the over 500 step hike down to the bottom. It does get busy so you may want to go earlier in the day. It was pouring down rain the entire walk down, but that did not stop us from enjoying the pure beauty of the surrounding forest and hearing the waterfall off in the distance. Once you get down to the bottom, there are many areas to view the waterfall, including a large deck and rocks that you can walk out onto to feel the pure power of the over 200 foot waterfall. Because of the storms, we were not able to swim near the waterfall, but around the corner, the river was open for swimmers. There are places to leave your things so you can enjoy the swim. The tough part, of course, is the hike back up. at least the rain has stopped at that point. We were completely soaked, but absolutely loved the experience.

Jeff M — Google review

Beautiful waterfall that was worth all the steps, even going back up! Definitely not an activity for anyone with mobility issues. They have changing rooms and lockers available once you pay the entrance fee. Recommend bringing a swimsuit and towel and some kind of waterproof shoes. Lots of sharp rocks to scramble over to get down to the water. Current very strong near the waterfall itself, but there were people swimming in the river on the other side, this part might be better for smaller kids or those who are not strong swimmers.

Karoline B — Google review

This is worth the $18 entry price. Yes there are 500 steps but don't be intimidated by that. There are plenty of places to rest.Once at the waterfall you can swim right up next to it but be warned, the current is very strong! Super cool experience though.After the waterfall, go down a few more steps and enjoy a calm river experience. You can relax in the cool water which should be a welcomed change from the heat!

Mike G — Google review

Breathtaking and amazing. Super cool and beautiful and chill. Can go swimming there as well. Also they have lots of cute fish as well. Super easy hike up and down 500+ steps. Also the restaurant inside was surprisingly really really good. They had this roasted chicken, smoked with coffee wood. It was an amazing experience, definitely recommend this place if you're in la fortuna.

Law M — Google review

It’s worth the $18. An easy, yet steep walk down several staircases to the beautiful waterfall below. A sweet little beach and some quiet water with many fish is available for a cold swim. The other side of the river is privately owned and tours come down that way as well.

Lindsey P — Google review

Initially, the facilities are in good condition. Nonetheless, the $20 entrance fee for this waterfall seems a bit steep to me. Descending the well-designed staircase for about 15 minutes provides an enjoyable experience, with opportunities for swimming. Don't forget to bring water shoes. There's a small area to swim and relax. As a solo traveler, while it's not the most impressive waterfall, it is beautiful, and I believe it should be free or cheaper. There are plenty more Impressive in Costa Rica.

Launaty C — Google review

Enjoyed going to this park. Walked to hanging bridge and waterfall. It took about 2.5 hours. Saw a few animals. And we walked in a cloud!! No sloths ☹️. Did not get a guide went during the day. It’s not an easy hike. Probably middle level of difficulty.The drive up and back down is not great. It’s not just you and the pothole, bad roads, possible weather, it’s also the other drivers in big trucks. Make sure you go slow.

Benjamin S — Google review

Visited here midweek but was still reasonably busy. 500 steps (sometimes uneven) down - and also back up so bring water if it's a hot day.The waterfall itself is very impressive, can't swim directly in the pool underneath it (can take photos and that spot is mostly full of people trying to get the Instagram photo), but you can further down there are life guards present to keep an eye on people's safety.We swam in the river just next to the falls, a few people in but the water is pretty cold and in places fast flowing so most don't stay in long or do more than paddle - glad we went in as it was a good experience.Back at the top they're are changing rooms, and there's a great cafe with a wood fired spit-oven that does really good chicken (you get half a chicken, which was a suprise but really tasty)

Jamie P — Google review

If you are in La Fortuna, you must visit this waterfall! We wanted to go and see Rio Celeste but we ran out of time. Luckily, we found this waterfall and it was beyond worth it! There are many steps down but did notice some people taking children down. Please note, they do have many stopping points where you can sit and rest while making your way back up. The views and the water is simply amazing. You can take a swim in the refreshing water. This was my favorite part of the trip! I’ve posted a video on my TikTok that shows this waterfall. @jessihino4Also, this attraction was only $20 which we thought was a steal!

Jessica H — Google review

This was a beautiful experience. I chose not to swim in the water, but it looked as if everyone else enjoyed swimming. We had to go down 500 steps, which was easy going down, but of course, it was much harder going back up. The humidity and heat didn't help. Definitely a must do if you are close enough.

Susanne G — Google review

Beautiful waterfall with swimming allowed. Honestly I thought the walk was pretty easy. My 5 and 8 year old kids were free which is pretty cool. Not really any wildlife that we saw aside from a bunch of common fish...but really cool place to go swimming and see a beautiful waterfall. Great place to go for the first day of our trip and then go on to more arduous challenges. Contrary to what everyone was telling us our kids were able walk up and down totally on their own as opposed to the handing bridges. Rio Celeste was more impressive but you couldn't swim by the waterfall and was a bit more challenging with a 5 and 8 year old... but totally doable to just see the waterfall.... we didn't continue on to the higher up parts

Ray E — Google review

Really nice waterfall with nice place to swim and take pictures too. I only gave it a 4 star because it did cost $20 which was expensive for a natural waterfall and not much else. Stairs down were safe and posted how many you reached in 100’s (500 in total)

Ellie M — Google review

What an absolutely amazing and beautiful waterfall. Had the pleasure of visiting here with an EF tour group. These tours are amazing and inclusive. Anyone who has these tours available to them or their children should take advantage of them. It was a trip of a life time and you should go!

Brian G — Google review

We purchased the tickets and lunch online the day before. It was convenience. I think they ask you to choose the time to wish to visit mostly for estimate number of visitors. It doesn't seem that you have to be there at that exact time.Be prepare to walk 500 steps down and then 500 steps up. It was a nice shady walk but tiring. It was crowded at the water fall. The water was very cold. But after a long walk, it could be refreshing. There were fish swimming in the river close by. And in case you were wondering : no drone allowed.The pre-purchased lunch was pretty good. You have a different limited menu to choose from. And It came with a refreshing fruit drinks , a few options to choose for lunch (costa Rica typical plate with different protein options, burgers , pasta...) and a small froyo at the end. After the long walk, it was perfect. I had the costa Rica plate with fish and the fish was fresh and tasty.Their gift shop sales things with reasonable price too. The same tshirt I saw selling for ~$20 at hotel, it was sale ~$15 here.

Trang T — Google review

The La Fortuna Waterfall is breathtaking. You will be surrounded by nature on your tour down to the waterfall. It’s a pretty hard walk coming up from the bottom. It is worth it. The entrance fee was around $18 dollars. It will take you about 15-20 minutes to walk down. On the bottom you can plunge in the water to cool down, even swim around. They don’t recommend to get close to the bottom of the waterfall, the heavy pressure can cause serious injury. The hike back is anywhere between 30-40 minutes. You will definitely have to sit down or grab a cold drink afterwards.There are many souvenir shops and a restaurant near. Please don’t skip this activity, it was one of the highlights of our visit. Whoever if you have very young children or elderly person with you, you might want to consider taking this hike.

Mónika M — Google review

Beautiful experience, but be prepared! The waterfall is gorgeous and so powerful. Make sure you are aware and ready to climb 500 stairs down to the waterfall and river and back up to the top.There is a couple gift shops and a restaurant/bar at the top where you enter as well!

Sophie M — Google review

So beautiful! The walk up and down wasn’t too steep and it was definitely worth it. We got there at 6:50am and we ended up being the first people there. If you want pictures, DEFINITELY go there right when they open! The coffee shop at the entrance was also great!

Kaitlyn T — Google review

Getting exercise in CR is just one of those things you have to do. Why not do it with a beautiful hike to a waterfall. When you arrive at the waterfall there is a good size parking lot. Park and pay your fees to go in. If it is raining you may want to go in the shop and get a poncho ($3).when you start off there is a sign indicating it is about 500 steps down. Just remember, if you go down you must come up. Once you get to the bottom there are lots of people taking pictures and swimming. Swimming would be great on a hot day. Now for the way up you could run the stairs, but then it would be hard to stop at the signs posted every 100 steps indicating you are getting closer to the top. There are also a number of sitting locations to take in the beautiful scenery. You can watch a couple of the zip liners going by from the near by zip line park. Once at the top there is a nice small bar / restaurant that was cooking rotisserie chicken and making everything smell good. Sit down enjoy a drink or two. You earned it after all. Once refreshed take a tour of the orchard garden.

David W — Google review

Absolutely breathtaking. It's definitely worth climbing the 1060+ stairs total. Go early before all the tour groups go. We went in May and we arrived at 8 am. Was the perfect time. We got to spend time in the water and had some great photo ops before the crowds.

Jeannette C — Google review

Easy walk to the beautiful water. There is a lot of stairs, so take your time. The cost is $20 PP. It is so worth it. There is plenty of parking. The water is clear and there is another area where you can swin alongside the fishes. There are a few restaurants in this location as well.IG: love_to_exist

Anthony D — Google review

We loved this hike! Down 550 steps and then back up again. Absolutely worth all those steps! Gorgeous crystal blue jungle pool with waterfall cascading down with a thunderous roar. Some folks went swimming( mostly Canadians) but honestly, it was too cold for us.

Ernst K — Google review

Absolutely gorgeous! Probably the prettiest waterfall I've seen. We went with a tour which worked out well, but we were a little rushed. The water is cold! There is a LOT of steps so be ready. I was ready to go back and get wet again after climbing them all!

SNF — Google review

Be prepared for a hike up and down 500 steps! Take it at your own pace, you can do it! They have motivational quotes along the way that tell you how many steps you have left.Bring water shoes and a towel if you decide to take a dip in the water. Its rocky near the falls and the swimming hole you can see fish swimming around.Take time to look at all the flowers around you they're beautiful. They also have an orchid path you can walk, unfortunately for us none were in bloom at the time.

Christina I — Google review

4.6

(7200)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (18)

4.5

(9748)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (19)

21007, Provincia de Alajuela, La Fortuna, 21007, Costa Rica

+506 2479 9515

4

Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (20)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (21)

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (22)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (23)

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Hotel

Nature & Parks

Baldi Hot Springs Resort Hotel & Spa offers a luxurious escape with picturesque volcano views and an impressive selection of 25 geothermal pools. Guests can indulge in the spa's relaxing treatments or enjoy complimentary breakfast at the on-site restaurant. The well-maintained rooms offer a clean stay, while some balconies may require attention to ensure complete closure. However, guests can unwind and soak in the numerous pools, including one open 24/7 upon request from reception.

Wow... Great experience! There must be at least 20 different hot spring pools here, all different sizes and temperatures. We loved the warm water waterslides and the dinner buffet was good!Yeah, it's a bit pricey for the day pass, but it was worth it. I've never been to a place like this one.

Jeff O — Google review

This place was great pools are right outside and they keep one of the pools open 24 hours each night just need to ask reception which one. Breakfast is included which is always a plus. The entire place is clean, rooms are clean which is of course acceptable. Only thing I had a problem with was the balcony window didn't close well and the person in the room next to us kept smoking out there and the smoke got in our room and that was really annoying but other than that we loved the place! we will definitely be back!

Animegrl610 — Google review

I came on a tour bus. Stayed for 2 hours. Lockers and showers are convenient. However to get to the hot springs the cars intersect with the path to the hot springs so you're dodging cars to and from the locker and the multiple hot springs. Poor setup.The hot springs were good. Lots of room. Brought my towel instead of paying.Dinner was not great. The steak was red and chewy. The salad was great. Main dishes not so much. The guava drink was enjoyable.

Oscar A — Google review

I did a day trip here. I didn't spend the night. The hot springs are absolutely phenomenal. The separate pools offer something for everyone. The place is very clean, the staff were friendly.The lunch buffet wasn't great. Simple enough fare, chicken, pulled pork, rice, fruit as long as it was watermelon or pineapple. Even the fruit was not really up to the standard I've learned in Costa Rica.

Chris G — Google review

We had a great time at the baldy Hot springs. They have a ton of different pools with different temperatures. And the place is done really well. Very clean. And although it rains all the times the canopies and the rain covers do a good job of covering you if you do not want to get wet. The water slides are also pretty fun. There is one that is a little more intense than the rest, and need to get past around a little bit.

Wesley W — Google review

We've been here for day passes to the pools twice over the past 18 months. It's a great way to spend an afternoon, drifting from pool to pool, experiencing the different temperatures and features like waterfalls, saunas, slides.Most of the pools have swim-up bars for ordering drinks (and maybe food?) Wasn't very crowded during our three hours there, but there were noticeably more people by the time we left.The grounds overall are clean and well-maintained, giving some sense of being in the jungle. You may even spot some tropical birds moving through the palms and other plants.We did not stay at the hotel, so I cannot opine on the rooms and accommodations. But all staff that we encountered were courteous and friendly.We would definitely go back a third time if in La Fortuna again.

Jared M — Google review

These hot pools were amazing! The temperatures were all different, which made it really nice. The natural steam room was very cool. The price is about $45 per person, but if you're there all day, it would be worth it. There is plenty for adults and kids. I would recommend you visit if you're in the area.

Chory_Muthaf*cken_B — Google review

Started our vacation here for 2 days and I am very glad we did. 2 days was just enough time for us to fully experience the springs and also explore other activities and spots close by. The hottest pools are at the top of the springs and it gets colder as you go down. The room was a good size along with having the balcony that was full of views of plants. We were thoroughly relaxed for our stay. We had a bathroom issue but the front desk and staff were very accommodating and made sure that the issues were corrected right away. During May when we went it was not busy season for Costa Rica so it also felt very private as we explored which we enjoyed.

Tyriq J — Google review

We went to the Hot springs and dinner.The pools are great. Not crowded even though there is no reservation required.Dinner was a buffet and very average. You are only paying about $20 and the non alcoholic drinks are unlimited but was still a little disappointing considering the rest of the place. Drinks at the pool bars were more than $10 each.

Jane S — Google review

We visited Bali Hot Springs as part of a tour package and it was a relaxing way to spend the end of an awesome day. The buffet had a great selection and we didn't leave hungry. Eating with a view of the Volcano in the background was great. After eating we made our way to the springs which were heated by the volcano. The temperatures are different by pool and get warmer the higher you go. The top pool was hot tub hot and the lower pools were more "summer pool" hot. We had a couple of drinks and found ourselves very relaxed for our return trip.

Chris C — Google review

I would not recommend staying here. The room was clean, but the sink smelled like rotten eggs (sulfur), no hot water in shower (even after maintenance came), AC made noise all night. One of the hot springs made our bathing suits smell. This resort offers day passes for people not staying on property so it can get very crowded. We got massages to be able to use private springs but there wasn’t any water in the springs? Drinks are $20 a piece. I would not stay at this resort again. For $500 I expect better plumbing. I was actually ready for my vacation to end.

Kelly M — Google review

Baldi Hot Springs is one of the best hot spring hotels in La Fortuna. The rooms are large and comfortable. They come with a small patio deck. The plants and foliage are well appointed on the property and add privacy in an otherwise large hotel. The hotel is right off the highway and very easy to find. They boast 25 pools on the property and include a kids area with water slides for kids. We did come during slow season so we didn't see too many kids which was nice and relaxing for us. But it is family friendly for those wondering. The hotel room we got came with a rather large closet, armoire, dresser, mini fridge, and bar. There is also a super cute vanity. Inside the bathroom was a little tight. Definitely not enough room for two people to be in there comfortably. The bathroom had a slight paint smell and also a slight sulfur smell but it wouldn't deter us from coming back. The shower came with a large deep tub in our room. So I would recommend anyone with knee or balance issues might want to request a different bathroom set up. The king size bed was nice for me and my husband and it was on the firmer side but not uncomfortable. We had house keeping daily and enjoyed the little towel characters they left on the bed each day. The property has several bars throughout and a few restaurants. Breakfast is included if you stay on site and it was different each morning. We stayed for 3 nights and enjoyed 3 breakfast. They also offer day passes for hot spring use if you choose not to stay in site and you can eat at the restaurants for extra cost. This property is not all inclusive. The staff was all very friendly and would say hello every time we passed them. I loved our visit. The pools all had something cool to them. I loved the ones that had the little day beds. Some were hotter than others and some were cold. There was a steam sauna and a spa as well. I would recommend it to everyone!

Karina C — Google review

This is truly an amazing experience that I’d highly recommend anyone check out when visiting the area! I believe there are 25 pools/saunas/hot tubs, and they get hotter as you go up the resort. A select few are even cool if you need to take a break from all of the heat. Everything was super clean and it was easy to navigate. One of the employees even loaded us up in his golf cart to give us a tour of the facility prior to paying. If you need food or drinks, they’ve got restaurants and bars available, but they also allow you to leave and come back as long as you have your wristband. We easily spent all day here, and would happy visit again! For the price, you really can’t get much better for “luxury” hot springs (but if it is a bit pricey for your group, there are free hot springs on the way to Arenal. They’re also amazing, but purely natural - not resort style, so wear water shoes to protect your feet).

Christian P — Google review

We purchased a day pass to use the hot springs. It was well worth it, several hot and cool pools are situated on site. The natural hot sauna was incredible. Highly recommend going to pools where both hot and cool pools exist. Switching between them was really nice. The kids section in Baldi is small but well designed, it will keep the kids entertained. Overall was pleasantly surprised by the size of this hot springs resort

Nirupan N — Google review

Location and the room was great, gorgeous views. But the staff was not pleasant. The price for the drinks and food was very high. For the price of a nights stay was $500/night and in my opinion not worth it. There are many other places in Costa Rica with beautiful hot springs. I paid for a night stay and then an hour after check out stayed around the hotel and asked to dry my clothes and they would not allow since it was past check out. For the cost to stay I would expect better service.

Amanda E — Google review

A very well maintained and clean resort. Food is reasonably priced and good. There are several swimming pools and they are quite clean.Only, improvement point I can think of is- bars should either not give drinking straws, if they do then they should be a bit longer than they are now.

Dushyant S — Google review

this stay was one of things we were most looking forward to on our trip to Costa Rica. However, we were overall very disappointed with our stay. The hot springs are nice and beautiful, but the ambiance is destroyed with the children that they allow to roam free without adult supervision. We were constantly having people put their belongings and clothing on our towels and chairs when there were multiple other chairs available. Although most bartenders and staff were nice, we did have an encounter with a very rude bartender who was visibly upset that we came up to his bar and ordered a drink. It was way over an hour until the bar closed, so we are confused as to why he acted as though we were the biggest inconvenience and interrupting his time since the bar was otherwise empty.It definitely seems like they cater to those with day passes rather than guests actually staying on property. We were given one towel each for our stay with no opportunities for them to be switched out for fresh towels. Rooms were mediocre at best. Had the same quality of room at other hotels for a way cheaper price at other places. Hot water took 10 minutes to even heat up and bathtub wall was very high which made extremely difficult to get out of if you are on the shorter side.In addition to this, customer service was lackluster. Apparently there was a “problem” with ALL room key locks throughout the property and we were constantly expected to walk all the way to main reception to get back into our room every time our key card didn’t work (which was every attempt and 10+ times). At times we even received a new to key to walk all the way back to the room and that key to still not work. I asked to have rooms changed but was constantly denied the ability to change until I asked to speak with management. At that point, I was laughed at and told that management was refusing to talk to me but I was given the option to switch rooms. They told me that the entire resort was having the same issue however we talked to multiple people in other rooms who stated that this issue was not happening to them.In addition to the poor service, we also encountered a coral snake (very poisonous) in the hot springs. We were sitting side by side in the hot springs leaning against the edge of the springs surrounded by foilage when I noticed this snake slithering on my husband’s shoulder/back. He quickly went under the water and another person in the hot spring tossed the snake out of the water using a shoe. That is why the picture does not seem to be in the hot spring but instead was only taken when he was tossed out and we were at a safe distance. Be aware of your surroundings and if anything only do a day pass here. not worth it to stay on the property.

Liz L — Google review

Got the day pass with dinner. It was $72 after tax. I don't think the extra 20 for dinner is worth it. They had 2 different rices, beans, chicken, pork chops, and beef, with bread/buns, spaghetti, veggies, a small salad bar. Wasn't a fan of the dessert but not the worst. Still enjoyed the view tho and it wasn't packed at the 6pm dinner time. They also give you 1 hr.They have about different sections of pools, mostly hot but there are cold ones inside of the hot ones or on the sides. They are a lot smaller, of course.Absolutely relaxing and so neat to be able to go from pool to pool.You can rent lockers for $6, I do recommend.And you can use their towels for $10 deposit, so people don't steal and give it back. Then they give it back to you, just don't lose the receipt!Didn't take any pictures/videos bc I left everything in the locker but it is beautiful!

Celeste — Google review

This place is pretty cool. They have like 25 pools or something crazy. Swim up bars, hot pools, cool pools, party pools, pools with slides, pools for kids. It just goes on and on. Oh also, a steam/sauna area. So much fun.Food was medicore at best. Drinks are pricey. Entry is pricey....but still worth it!

Christine P — Google review

It is a nice and clean place. The resort is well maintained and has a lot of pool options. I would recommend going there for sure. The only thing I didn't like was the amount of time we waited at an empty bar to get a drink with servers looking at us but not approaching to see what we want until 15 min later. It may be a thing to not bother you so much as I noticed that a few times but it is nice to get that first drink quick.

Mehafroozs — Google review

Stayed a little over a week in May, Rooms are huge, great A/C, spacious balconies--a little dark inside but probably due to the wall colors and lighting. Wifi was also fine--I brought a laptop and used it daily, didn't have issues. Didn't use video though, so not sure if that would've pushed it. Breakfast buffet was delicious, so many options--seating area is open air with a lot of shade. So many pools, all heated, range of temperatures. It feels nice and secluded because of all the landscaping and tall palm trees throughout the resort. Large parking lot for overnight and day stays. Resort is in a pretty central location--feel like mostly everything we drove to was under 20 minutes. About 2.5 hour drive from San Jose airport area--roads are windy but all paved, and speed limit is pretty low. But it was a nice drive over--nice views of different towns and rolling hills/farms.

Connie J — Google review

We enjoyed our overnight. They had one pool open 24 hrs for guests which was great. We enjoyed the pools even more after dark. The free welcome drink was a nice touch.The only reason why I had to give 4 stars instead of 5 was that our suite, in the furthest most building, overlooked a construction site so it had no view at all except for a green screen and it was noisy during the day. We were not warned of this when we made our reservation or during check-in.

Jenny L — Google review

Purchased a day pass and spent a relaxing five hours at this luxurious hot springs resort. $44 pp + about $15 in a la carte food. I wish we had purchased the included lunch option. There are countless hot pools (25?), many of them with waterfalls. The staff were friendly. My teenage daughter did not like the big water slide - ouch. Overall we had a great time here. The free hot springs at Choylin is an amazing alternative for those who are nimble and adventurous.

Burton F — Google review

We didn’t stay at the resort so I can’t review the rooms. We did spend the afternoon at the hot springs though. So many pools you feel like you can’t even hit them all. Varying temperatures in each pool if you find some are too hot.My kids loved the waterslides. They particularly liked the funnel slide.The afternoon included dinner which was delicious. Rice and beans, chicken/pork/beef, salad and desserts.

Ben D — Google review

We got a day pass with lunch included. There were many pools and we were delighted that each pool had a sign that listed its temperature. There are some thermal pools that have cool water pools nearby. At night, the colorful lights on the waterfall tower were spectacular! There were shallow pools with built-in lounges and a swim-up bar in another. The design is certainly well thought out. The customer service was stellar! As you walk around, when staff pass by, they always verbally acknowledge you. BUT the lunch buffet was pretty horrible. The pork in BBQ sauce was tasty, but I nearly broke a tooth because it was so tough. The rolls were stale and dry. The mashed potatoes were obviously instant and way too salty. The veggies were cooked to death, the chicken was dust, the pasta was mush, and both sauces, red and white, were watery and insipid. Desserts were your typical jello-like cheesecake and a fruit sponge with more whipped cream than cake. The best thing we ate was the fresh pineapple. It was sweet and delicious. DO NOT pay $22 for lunch. Leave, eat, and come back. Trust me.

Tena J — Google review

What a fun place to relax! The varying water temps of each pool was really fun. It’s an excellent place to take kids. We were in the off season, so it was not crowded at all, but the water slides were not available because of this, I think. We had a pretty good lunch that was included in our price, and though pricier than a restaurant nearby, the convenience of having it in the park was great. And the food was decent. We did the day pass, so we didn’t stay in the resort , but speaking for the pools itself , I’d definitely recommend to anyone with kids staying in the area.

Emily P — Google review

Great way to spend an afternoon, drifting from pool to pool, experiencing the different temperatures and features like waterfalls, saunas, slides. Most of the pools have swim-up bars for ordering drinks. Wasn't very crowded during our three hours there, but there were noticeably more people by the time we left. The grounds overall are clean and well-maintained, giving some sense of being in the jungle. You may even spot some tropical birds moving through the palms and other plants. Fair warning, the slides lead to super shallow waters, you'll end up regretting it.

Anthony M — Google review

Went here on a day pass. If you're tired of trekking or just need a break from the jungle this is a perfect place to unwind and enjoy some drinks in a really unique hot springs/waterpark. Entry fee for the day and drink prices are a little on the high side $47 to enter, around $8 for a beer. That said it is a totally unique experience. I think they have 14 hot spring fed pools. 5 or 6 of those have swim up bars. Parking can be tough for day pass visitors. You have to park along the road outside of the hotel property and it can get crowded. Another fun and unique experience in Costa Rica.

Joe P — Google review

the hot springs are great. they are large areas that are more public. on certain nights you can have whole areas to yourselves. The bar at the top is stupidly expensive while the bars further down the hot waterfalls are less expensive.. there is a nice sauna and several cold pools to do small cold plunges. You can have a great experience starting from the top and working your way down. If you want cheap drinks and good hot springs you can do Los Lagos but the experience is a little different.

Alan J — Google review

We didn't stay in the hotel but I can comment on the hot springs. The springs were great, very relaxing and the atmosphere was amazing, it was like stepping into a tropical paradise. We enjoyed all the pools and waterfalls, we were traveling with a bunch of teens and everyone seemed to enjoy it.

Spacey J — Google review

If you find yourself in Costa Rica, a visit to Baldi Hot Springs is an absolute must. This tropical oasis offers an unforgettable experience that combines relaxation and natural beauty in the most stunning way.Set amidst lush, verdant surroundings, Baldi Hot Springs features a series of naturally heated thermal pools, each offering different temperatures to suit your preference. The mineral-rich waters are incredibly soothing, making it a perfect place to unwind and rejuvenate.The beautifully landscaped gardens, coupled with the sound of cascading waterfalls, create a serene and tranquil atmosphere. It's easy to lose track of time as you move from pool to pool, enjoying the warm, therapeutic waters and taking in the breathtaking scenery.Baldi Hot Springs also offers excellent amenities, including a spa, restaurants, and bars. Whether you're looking to indulge in a relaxing massage, enjoy a delicious meal, or sip on a tropical co*cktail, you’ll find plenty of options to enhance your visit.Overall, Baldi Hot Springs is a true gem in Costa Rica, offering a unique blend of relaxation and natural beauty. Whether you're a solo traveler, a couple, or a family, this destination promises an unforgettable experience. Don't miss out on this tropical paradise!

Denilio — Google review

I came to just visit the springs with a day pass and thought it was great, very well worth it. Total entry for myself (no time limit for the hot springs) plus locker rental and 1hr buffet dinner was under $80 which I think was reasonable. Facilities were very clean, spacious, and welcoming. There may be an extra fee for towels so I recommend to bring your own. Be prepared the walk to the further springs and the buffet area is on an upwards incline - not hard to walk but may be difficult for elderly/physically impaired.

Dina G — Google review

We went there for a day trip and we enjoy it a lot. Really clean, kids friendly and decent buffet. Awesome place to take the kids and enjoy your day at the more than 20 different pools/hot springs. With parking and towels (with a refundable deposit).

Sibeliz M — Google review

I did not stay at the resort so i cannot comment on the rooms but i did their day pass and it was totally worth it. The springs were hot, the location was clean, and the ambience was great. I purchased dinner and drinks at the bar and it was money well spent and not expensive for a resort (compared to what i would have spent at a resort in the US). As this is one of the most popular Hot Springs in Costa Rica and carries a waterslide, it is filled with kids so expect kids running around....alot. Other than that visiting was one of the best part of my vacation!

Kerry K — Google review

Not entirely what I was expecting, but made the best of it. We went in the evening around 5pm for a day pass (which costs the same as if you went in the morning - no evening rate). My initial reaction and feeling was Disney Land meets all inclusive. Many of the pools had swim up bars, one pool had water slides for kids, and there was a separate kids water park area. Not our jam, was looking for a more tranquil thermal pool experience which you can apparently find at other hot springs resorts. We went on a recommendation from a friend, but could have done more research ourselves prior to going. We did end up enjoying ourselves a bit more once it got dark and the pools started clearing out, at one point we had a large thermal pool to ourselves, but could hear loud music coming from another pool/part of the resort. All in all we enjoyed being in the warmth of the hot springs but would have enjoyed a different environment. Might be suitable for you if you have kids and are looking for the best of both worlds. I myself was looking for a more relaxing, spa like experience.

Ashley M — Google review

Too hot for me. Would be nicer if air temp wasn't 95 degrees. Would be great in much cooler weather. Thought the price to get I was fair. Can be hard to find three chairs together unless you get there early. Food and drinks were average.l, avoid the pizza. Was awful. Thought the staff and bartenders could've been nicer

A W — Google review

We spent a day with some clients recently . The springs and pools are amazing. The place is beautiful with many pool options. However they did not like the food that much. They were disappointed by the food quality because it was warm or basically cold. I asked if there was a way to heat up some food for us but the answer we got was that they do not cook at the restaurant location but rather they bring prepared food from somewhere else on site and they just keep it warm there during the dining service. Not the type of answer you want to get specially considering the price one pays to stay and dine there.

Cristian A — Google review

We went there and got a day pass⭐️. Food was absolutely fantastic. Best bruschetta and salad I ever had! Beautiful interior. We did not stay at the hotel we did this for the experience. The water pools are gorgeous with nice design. One thing that needs imposter the directions how to get from pool to pool to find different temperatures and what benefits they carry. Me and my daughter loved it ! Thank you

Dominika S — Google review

It was truly an amazing experience when visiting La fortuna. Definitely won of the highlights to go visit and relax in Costa Rica. The place has roughly 25 different pools with a few slides available for kids / adults. Be mindful to experience a few whiplashes from the slide!

Dannie N — Google review

It was a beautiful, reasonably priced hot spring. It’s fun to wander and test out the different pools, they also have paths through the trees that are fun to explore at night. The bars closer to the entrance have less costly drinks. Use the slides at your own risk-they are absolutely fun and absolutely painful if you’re over age 30.

Emily L — Google review

The junior suite was very nice, the tub, the shower, the balcony, the beds and pillows were all perfect. The environment was peaceful and tranquil, I saw other reviews that talked about construction noise but heard nothing at all.The staff is amazing, very engaged and attentive. Could not ask for more. The breakfast buffet was great. Thank you for true peace of mind ❤️

Marika C — Google review

There are multiple pools to swim in. Each have a temperature located on a sign. Only 2 pools were cold and they were tiny. If you like scalding hot water,then this is your place. It does have wet bars for adults, play areas for the kids and slides for everyone. I enjoyed the quiet during the day. The restaurant food is great and has really good pricing. The bad part is that you have to pay $50 for an all day pass (pool access only) ,rent your towels and a locker. There was a random wild thunderstorm that shut the place down, so people who got there later, didn't get refunds.

LIZ M — Google review

Went last year with my family. Very good location, had an amazing welcome drink, breakfast is DELICIOUS and rooms, bathrooms, public areas are well kept and super clean. Funny name too (I have a weird sense of humor) and I love the statue of the lady in the front 😂Will be going back!

Stacy P — Google review

Went on a trip to Costa Rica and these hot springs were my favorite part of the trip! So many pools to choose from and each is unique. I love the couple of high adventure slides as well and it was so relaxing to stay here.

Matt B — Google review

We did not stay at the hotel, but bought day passes for the hot springs. It was perfect after hiking the trails at Volcan Arenal...soaking tired muscles. There were many pools and water temperatures to choose from. The pools are all luxuriously landscaped, and there are a couple of swim-up bars and a swim-up restaurant. I was very impressed with the amenities available for those with day passes!

Deana B — Google review

We visited this hot springs and paid $94 to get in for two passes. By far the worst hot spring we visited. Don't get fooled by the big quantity of pools and the fancy decor. Lots of uphill and downhill walking, and the pools are very spread out and inconsistent. Lots of hot pools and the cold pools are tiny. Everything is just placed without correlation. Most of the "pools" are just water spots. The pools/hot springs are very dirty especially the ones near the bars. We found lots of big dead bugs, and roaches floating in the water. The bar tenders are extremely rude and condescending. Not worth more than $20 and the beverages at the bar were very mid and overpriced. Please don't get fooled by the high star reviews, much better options than this. Thank You :)

Gurveer S — Google review

We stayed one night at this location, breakfast was included and it was pretty good with a wide selection of food to choose from. We had a nice sized room that was in a quiet location. There are multiple pools at this resort and at night the lights look nice when you are bathing. I suggest to book way in advance because prices can go up quickly. Will definitely come back one day.

Nicola G — Google review

Very over priced. Drink prices are outrageous. They sell day passes and over the holidays it was packed with people. They don’t sell Imperial beer but they sell imports. How can you not have Imperial in Costa Rica? Our room was located backed up to a construction tarp. We paid extra for a large family suite with balcony. Never did anyone mention construction. They did not care when we complained. Not even a free meal. There are a ton of pools on property. Property is large and well manicured, so it’s not all bad. But it’s like Disneyland with bad customer service. It’s very commercial feeling. I would not stay here again. The staff was nice at the main restaurant and around the resort. The buffet is very bad and mainly for day pass guests I suppose. The breakfast buffet is included and was pretty good. Property is very large and required tons of walking up hill. So if you’re out of shape this would be very difficult. Also not fun with hot and tired kids.

Nicole D — Google review

Tons of daylong fun with day pass. Pretty pricey, but tons of hot pools. Tour busses rolled in for the afternoon and hundreds of school groups crowded the park. It wasn't too bad as the facility can handle the crowds. Biggest caution is the concrete waterslides. The middle slide is very sketchy, flipping riders upside down at the end. Heard that people occasionally get hurt on it. Overall fun experience!

Jason S — Google review

We were there just a week ago and we didn't want to leave.The hotel is one of the cleanest I have ever been in. It caught my attention that they empty all the hot spring pools at 10pm and clean them all so that everything is sparkling the next day.It was incredible to see the pools so clean every day.Only the children's pool was not so sparkling, but we pointed it out to them and they immediately corrected it. We truly appreciated it.The people were very friendly and helpful. In the lobby bar I had the best "Mojito" in Costa Rica.Definitely a place to spend more than 4 days and 3 nights, there is a lot to do inside and outside pf the Hotel.The area is beautiful and its exotic animals invite you to return.

Yaquelin B — Google review

We only made a stop for the springs. It was beautiful and relaxing. It was very luxurious. A must stop if in the area. The slides were a little rough, but the rest was perfectly executed in display and options.

Dzzlgrl — Google review

4.5

(7578)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (24)

4.0

(3840)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (25)

142, Alajuela Province, San Carlos, Costa Rica

+506 2479 2190

5

Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio

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National park

Nature & Parks

Bodies of Water

Multiple volcanic peaks & craters in a national park, plus a famous light-blue river.

Overall a great experience. The entry fee was $12 per person if I remember correctly.The park consists of approximately 3km out and 3km back trail. There are several important stops such as the waterfall which requires that you decend several hundred steps (then climb back to resume the trail) which is worth the view. When you get to the bottom of the stairs, you realize it was worthy the effort.Towards the end of the trail, there is a point where two separate bodies of water mix to create the blue color the river is known for.During our walk, we saw a bunch of wildlife including birds, wild turkeys, and a pit viper snake.Overall 5-stars. I would definitely visit this place again.

Idris G — Google review

It was a long wait to get into the park after arriving around 9am. There was no shade and got quite hot standing in the sun. They only let so many people in at a time, which is nice for the hike not to get too crowded. The hike was pretty strenuous and parts were slippery. Didn’t see the volcano top, but the waterfall and rivers were a beautiful sight to see. We saw quite a bit of wildlife while on the tour too.

Dominique C — Google review

Parque Nacional Volcán Tenorio is where you’ll find the bright blue waters of Rio Celeste. It is beautiful hiking around the falls and by the river; you cannot swim in it. Getting into the park is a little annoying as you have to go online right there to make a reservation on the SINAC website (Costa Rica’s site for all national parks). Parking is 2000 colones so have that cash on hand. The hike down to the waterfall is slick on the stairs. The other hike to the viewpoint and river is long and a moderate level of hiking. I’d recommend walking slow in some parts. Bring a rain jacket and use the bathroom prior to entering as there aren’t any inside the park. Saw a few snakes and a coatimundi! It’s an enjoyable national park!

Jake H — Google review

Make sure you go early. Rio Celeste is a must see but to get there you hike in about 1km then walk down a hundred or so stairs. After seeing the waterfall you can walk another 2km into the park which is definitely worth doing. You will eventually come to the end of the trail where the rivers mix and will then have to walk the 3km back out along the same trail. It gets very very busy by 10am.

Christopher C — Google review

Definitely worth the hike! And you must go all the way to the end to see the mixing of two waters. The waterfall is of course amazing but seeing two rivers mix like that was special. We were lucky because there were no rain before so to the water so very blue! Where your hiking shoes and be prepared to climb some stairs!

Jan K — Google review

The hikes are unmissable. We learned so much about Arenal and the nature is impressive. Don’t miss it!

Catarina T — Google review

Fun hikes, I saw people of all ages walking the trails. It’s located in the cloud forest. The waterfall and the blue waters are so special, the locals tell the story that when God was painting the sky, he dipped the paint brush in this waters and that’s how the river got its color 💙🙂. There’s a lot to see… animals, birds, nature, the union of two rivers where the blue color waters are born.There are some restaurants and stores outside the National park to get a refreshing natural juice after the hikes and also you can book other activities to do around there.

Marina — Google review

A breathtaking hike with a unique waterfall!We saw lots of wildlife there and took beautiful pictures. In the rainy season it’s not crowded at all. Unfortunately I got stung by a bee there, but the staff was very helpful and kind and offered to treat it.Keep in mind that you need an online-reservation before you can enter, which you can do right in front of the park but I would recommend to do it before that, especially if you travel during high season.

Milla K — Google review

Nice park, lots and lots of snakes, be aware of that and dont touch any green next to you, i suggest closed pants for that.The blue water is rewarding, somehow we couldn’t find where it was allowed to swimWe haven’t booked a tour guide, but it seems a good idea for a group to explore and to see wildlifeI Highly recommend

Nimer B — Google review

The official parking lot at the bottom of the hill is operated by the Red Cross and much easier than trying to park on the side of the road (the road is narrow and we saw two cars that had been hit). The shuttle can be slow.Unfortunately the bridge was closed when we were there but we had an enjoyable walk non the less.Animals can be hard to spot due to the dense forest but easy to hear.The trails can be very muddy so be prepared.

Jeff D — Google review

So worth the drive out to this place! We didn't end up going with a guided tour but we didn't end up needing one! Even though it was a cloudy day and had rained heavily for a few days the waterfall was still beyond gorgeous! Not as blue as the photos during the winter but still worth it none the less. WEAR GOOD SHOES! A portion of the path is paved but the many never ending steps down the the water fall are large and slippery. It is worth it to continue on with the hike to the end as well! You get to see where two rivers meet and where some natural minerals have created a almost middle line between both coloring rivers. Hike the whole thing if you go! You won't regret it!

Mandie — Google review

Visited a few days ago and it was an amazing experience. The whole round trip hike took my husband and I about 2.5hrs. It was well worth it for the views we got. There’s plenty of parking and there’s also a restaurant and local people selling fruits and coconut juice. I will say, the bathrooms were a little jank, but nothing too bad. There are many stairs to get to the waterfall, but there are lots of spots you can stop at along the way to take a breather. One of the locals there told us that the water doesn’t look as blue when it rains, so def try to go on day there’s no rain on the forecast. Although it was hot, you can’t feel it very much on the hike since you’re covered by all the foliage. I recommend going to the end of the hike so you can see the bubbling spots and the end where the two different colored rivers meet. You can’t go in the water like you’re able to at Arenal waterfall, however there is a pot outside of the park at you’re allowed to go into the beautiful blue water, search Tenorio free pool.

Elda — Google review

The main attraction of this national park is the famous waterfall. At times it's a beautiful bright blue color. During periods of heavy rainfall, the water turns muddy and is no longer blue. That's the condition it was in when I visited, but the sheer power and size of the waterfall was impressive to observe, even if the color wasn't perfect.As many of the other reviews state, the hike to the waterfall is relatively short, but the terrain is challenging. Expect many rocks, lots of mud, and slippery terrain.This is a national park, and the fact that you're in a rainforest needs to be respected. We went with a guide, and they explained very clearly that there are vipers and other venomous snakes present, poisonous frogs, and wild monkeys that can attack in packs of 10+ if you have food they want. You really do need to be careful, as we encountered a baby viper and a pack of monkeys during the hike, just like the guides predicted. This is not a bad thing. In fact, it speaks to how well the habitat is maintained.I heard some guides and locals talking about how this waterfall is in the top 3 most visited sites in Costa Rica, and the sheer number of tourists visiting it is now overwhelming. 5 years ago, it was a much quieter park. Something to note if you visited a whole ago and expect it to be similar now - it is far more crowded.

Noah G — Google review

Rio Celeste is a must see… If there hasn’t been much rain. Too much rain dulls the beautiful blue colors of this river. The paths are well maintained but you should be in good physical condition to manage the steep paths. I highly suggest bringing a walking stick or two. A guide is not necessary, but you will see more wildlife if you hire one.

Michelle ( — Google review

The reviews for this amazing waterfall were so confusing. The booking process as well. But the trail and waterfalls were absolutely amazing. We saw an eyelash viper along the trail. Probably the most beautiful waterfall I’ve seen. Doable with a 4 and 8 year old if you just want to see the falls. I’ve been around a lot of CR and believe me you don’t have want to miss this if you have the chance! Pura Vida!

Ray E — Google review

Beautiful National Park. If you’re looking to go Rio Celeste Waterfalls with the blue water, make sure to come here. The Google Map stop showing Rio Celeste is incorrect - a few cars were lost in this journey and ended up here at the park.Highly recommend purchasing tickets and booking time slot in advance. I would say the steps are more tolerable than La Fortuna waterfalls - it’s not as intense but a solid workout regardless.You are not allowed to swim in the park, but the bridge up, you will see a spot to get in the water and cool off.

Zachariah C — Google review

You can only buy tickets online through SINAC Costa Rica website. You have to create an account to buy tickets & choose time of entry. We chose the first entry 8-8:40 A.M. We didn’t get a guide as we wanted to do the hike at our own pace…the trails are clearly marked with signage that explains the attractions. We completed the hike in 4 hours. Rating the hike as moderate. The park was beautiful & well maintained. We hiked different types of trails; paved paths, bridges, rocky trails, tree roots & some mud. The 250 stairs down to the waterfall are in good shape and dry as we went in February. The waterfall was as mesmerizing as I anticipated. The local legend story & the science behind the milky blue colour are equally fascinating. Expect rain in the rainforest…it rained on us for the first half hour. Use the bathroom before the hike as there are none inside the park…It would be nice if there’s one. Tips: Bring a light rain jacket, water & proper footwear. Parking is 2000 crc. Bags will be inspected at the park entrance. No cigarettes, vapes, single use plastics, food…

May E — Google review

Interesting, very well-kept natural park with waterfall and blue rivers. Magnificent flora and possibility of encounters with various animal species

Federico N — Google review

Lovely experience. A true wonder. We did the whole hike and everything was perfect. We hiked it without a guide and glad we did it that way. We spent as much time as we wanted in each spot. Wear hiking shoes, poles were very helpful. Have a pan go for drizzle or rain. Go early am. Make reservations in advance. Number of people on the trail is very well controlled. 10 out of 10 experience!

Sunshine A — Google review

Good hike to the rio Celeste falls. Absolutely stunning beauty. Get there early before the tour busses show up. Out and back home with quite a bit of climbing and stairs.

GoRDo! — Google review

What a beautiful park.This is the best bang for your buck when it comes to the park admission fee.The trail is well maintained and fairly easy to walk. There are some steep sections on the way that may be hard depending on the shape you are in. The way back is downhill.We didn't see any wildlife, unfortunately, and regret not hiring a guide.This is a must-see.You are not allowed to go in the beautiful water, but at about 1 km down the road, you will cross a small bridge.That's the spot where you can go for a dip.During rain or just after a rainfall, it would be a muddy trail, and likely, the water would be too polluted to render its natural beauty.Don't miss this trail.PS: we rented a scooter and rode from La Fortuna. Thankfully, we had clear skies, and everything was dry. I'm an experienced rider, so it wasn't too bad on the scooter.However, it was very uncomfortable for my wife in the back.The experience was priceless, though.

Julio H — Google review

Beautiful park! The waterfall was better than all the pictures can show. Be careful of walking outside of the trail path as there are lots of bugs and snakes around.

Abida S — Google review

we went in December and Just missed the rain as it started right after we hiked out! Perfect timing. I heard if it rains before you go, the water may be brown, but luckily for us it was very blue. The hike to the fall was beautiful. The funny thing is (and now I am learning its like this everywhere where instagram has made famous) is that there was a line to get down the stairs to the fall because everyone was getting their picture taken. But overall it was a nice day. Just remember to book you pass to enter BEFORE you get there online! It was a hassle to do once we got there because we did not do it ahead of time.

Shanna S — Google review

The park is really beautiful we maintained they do not let food, cigarettes, vapes etc inside there’s a checkpoint for every bag so avoid those items. The trail to go to the waterfall is paved with stairs.Outside the park there’s many shops to purchase drinks, food or souvenirs. I recommend getting there early since the park closes at 4pm and last admission is at 2pm.You can’t go for a swim so be aware of that before getting to the park there’s a bridge and below there you can stop for a swim many locals and tourists.

Rameci R — Google review

Awesome hike! Go do it! Bring water and hit the earliest enterance by reservation. If you like the stair master at the gym this is for you 😀

Cairo E — Google review

Such an amazing area with Rio Celeste. We saw lots of birds, snacks, the Costa Rican raccoon, monkeys, and the cool waterfall. The hike is moderately challenging with a steep incline on the way in. There are about 200 steps down to the platform for the waterfalls. You can't swim there. There mosquitoes. So, where bug spray and long pants and shirt.

Jessica L — Google review

While staying at La Fortuna, we decided to make the effort to visit this park and trek all of the trails from the only entrance at Rio Celeste.Having read the countless issues about tickets we booked online the night before. The website needs better optimisation for mobile devices. However, the process was painless enough.To get from La Foruna we used personal transport with Luis Rivera from Hidden Wonders Tours (hiddenwonders.tours) and the price was only 3 more than our hotel quoted for a group tour to the same location. We had previously used Luis a guide in La Fortuna and again his new car was immaculate and his driving very safe plus the added little things like cold drinks and nibbles at the end of the hike were welcome (we did transport only, and he waited out side the park for us).The walk itself was a total of 5.4km in length according to Garmin GPS and there was a total elevation gain of just over 500m. Total time for us (slower down hill than up hill) was just over 2hrs and 20min. So, it's not a walk for those with a very low level of fitness.We got luck with the weather, clear blue skies, amazing colours in the water and being low season not too many people walking. My tip would be start before 1030 as by the time we were leaving the 40+ seat buses were arriving and disgorging all of their guests.Highly recommend this trek if you have time and please make sure you buy your ticket the night before!!!!

Jess M — Google review

4.7

(1767)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (30)

4.5

(1769)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (31)

Guanacaste Province, Guatuso, Costa Rica

+506 4040 0941

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6

Tamarindo

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Outdoor Activities

Beaches

Tamarindo, situated on the Pacific coast of Costa Rica in Guanacaste Province, is renowned for its rugged surfing beaches such as Playa Tamarindo and Playa Langosta. The area to the north houses Playa Grande beach, which serves as a significant breeding ground for enormous leatherback turtles and constitutes part of Las Baulas National Marine Park. Tamarindo Wildlife Refuge protects diverse fauna like howler monkeys and crocodiles in its estuary lined with mangroves.

4.5

(3625)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (45)

Guanacaste Province, Costa Rica

7

Diamante Eco Adventure Park

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Theme park

Tours

Diamante Eco Adventure Park offers a thrilling experience with zipline rides through the forest canopy, tours of a butterfly house, and encounters with jaguars at the wildlife center. Visitors can enjoy an all-day excursion that includes ziplining with auto-brake feature, exploring the breathtaking animal sanctuary, and participating in a cultural experience to learn about chocolate and coffee. The park also offers a discovery pass for access to the animal sanctuary where knowledgeable guides provide insights into various amazing animals.

This place is great! Really fun, and the staff were all very friendly and helpful! I spent the entire day here. I did the Zipline course, viewed many gorgeous animals, and swam at the private beach! I also tried fresh, natural, traditionally made coffee and chocolate. All in all I had a wonderful time and I would definitely recommend it!

Janae S — Google review

We had a great time at Diamante Eco Adventure Park!!! There is so much to do, you have to pick and choose. We did the Zipline which was the highlight of our vacation, the zoo, and the cultural experience. The zoo was excellent! The people working there were wonderful. They loved the animals and knew a lot about them. It’s definitely a place we would return to!

Jillian's C — Google review

This was definitely one of the best experiences I’ve had in CR. The animals were all super close to you, even if they were in an enclosure. The guides were very friendly and educational. Everything was pretty much close together so there wasn’t any unnecessary walking. It’s super hot so I appreciate everything being close by. There was a little snack shop where I had a nice cold beer and my daughter enjoyed an ice pop. We experienced an interactive demonstration of coffee, sugar cane water, and chocolate making. Next to the workshop, was a little farm animal petting zoo that allowed for feeding, which the kids enjoyed. There was also a little trail leading to a beautiful beach with green cliffs on the side. They offer kayaking services and some other things. They provided us with a good lunch at an extra cost. The dining area itself was entertaining because you had a perfect view of the zipliners doing their thing. Overall, I would rate this a 10 if I could.

Shirley P — Google review

Had a lot of fun at the Diamante Eco Adventure Park! It was a great place to see animals, zipline, and spend the day in Costa Rica. We saw the promotional signs in the airport and decided to spend the day there. The website is easy to navigate and I had a few questions so I called and they were very helpful. Highly recommend if you're looking for an all-day activity. The Superman zipline is intense and I'm glad we did it.

Jason B — Google review

Purchased the all day adventure package. With this you can either zip line, ATV ride or take a horse ride. 2 of use took the zip lines while mom and older kid went ATV’ing. Everyone had a blast.The all day pass entitles you to the buffet lunch which was really nice.Animal sanctuary is very impressive. Make sure you go to the early morning sloth feed at 9:30. The one later, the sloths slept through.Beach is wonderful and very beautiful. Kids loved paddle birding with mom while I kept watch from the shade.The drive from tamarindo is an experience. An adventure in itself. Mountain driving to river crossing. A lot of fun.

Steven — Google review

We chose the all-day adventure pass, and we're so glad we did.The park has a very "Jurassic Park" feel to it from the time you drive in the front gate, which immediately set the tone for adventure (minus the dinosaurs, thankfully).The zip line was our first stop, though we were a bit nervous, since none of the six of us had ever ziplined before. The fact that we first had to step on a scale was a bit unnerving - who wants to give their weight to anyone? - but I quickly realized that they take safety very seriously and knowing our weights helped them make safer choices for us. We all had a blast in the zip lines and would have repeated them over and over if it had been an option. The only suggestion I have is for them to provide goggles for the Superman line; you go so fast that the wind causes your eyes to tear up and you can't see anything.The last zip line dropped us off in the animal sanctuary, where we spent time looking at all the animals. It's obvious they care for their animals and have tried to create habitats for them that are "home-like".Lunch was provided with our pass, and it was typical buffet food, nothing to write home about.After lunch, we took the shuttle to the beach to enjoy some time in the water. Getting to hang out in the hammocks and take the kayaks out was a great way to end our day.I've read other reviews that complained about long lines and such, but that wasn't our experience. Everything was very streamlined and efficient, but that could be because we went during the off-season.

Shawntel W — Google review

We toured the Animal Sanctuary and Cultural Tour.Animals - have very spacious and safe enclosures for each animal. You are able to get really close to animals. The feeding of Lucy and her companion sloth was so cool!!We then went on the Cultural Tour and met Kevin!!! He was amazing at explaining the coffee making process, we also made Sugar Cain Juice and Chocolate right from the Coco beans.Kevin was great!!!

Christy H — Google review

Wonderful family visit to the Animal Sanctuary, playground, farm and cultural centre.Our kids loved and adults too. We got to see the Sloth and Jaquar feeding and were educated along the way as we visited the different animals from the experienced staff. I commend the shady stops where tables and chairs are set up to help reset, take a break and get out of the beaming sun at times.Thank you for having us.

Dk K — Google review

Great, fun place to take the family! Attractions for all ages. People are friendly and service is good. Unfortunately we only had time to do the Animal Conservation tour but it was so cool and the diversity of wildlife was top tier! All of the animal handlers were very knowledgeable and are super willing to tell you anything and everything if you ask :) Our girls loved it and at the end there is this really cool adventure park!

Alexandra O — Google review

This place is a fun way to spend the day day however small children and anyone with a fear of heights will find much less excitement. There is an animal park/zoo which the kids liked however I'm against Zoos in general especially big cats pacing. The turtles, crocodiles, snakes etc seem more reasonably content. There is a low ropes course that's good for about ages 4 and up. There was a free lunch buffet included in our price which was a nice touch. The zip lining was very fun and took about 2 hours But of course there are age and weight restrictions. Older kids would Lso appreciate the cultural talk. The beach was small but nice and had some relaxing hammocks. It hot and dusty but there were drink options & shuttles to help!

Adriana L — Google review

This was an incredible experience and one I’d recommend to anyone visiting the area. The staff are friendly and there’s a lot of entertainment options available for guests of all ages.The cultural experience explores how sugar, coffee, and chocolate are produced, and you are able to taste all three.The animals are very well taken care of and have neat personalities!

Adam C — Google review

Awesome zip lining and culture park. It was our first time zip lining and we absolutely loved it. There are 5 different runs with one being the Superman where you lay flat and go 60mph for a mile. It was so much fun and the views are amazing. You end up in the sanctuary so you can hang with the sloths and toucan birds. We definitely want to do it again. It’s 2 minutes from Riu resort.

LMP — Google review

We did the animal sanctuary and it was a really enjoyable experience. The animal habitats were very well done and we loved getting to see the sloths feeding. Getting to be up close to the Toucans was really cool. I’ve been to a lot of zoos and animal sanctuaries in the USA and this was definitely a great place to see and learn about the animals who had been rescued.We were there for 2hours. For the price I wish something else was included, like the botanical gardens or cultural experience, but overall I’m glad we went.

Michelle S — Google review

Was great. Did the cultural experience and was awesome. It comes with a discovery pass as well. The discovery brings you down the animal sanctuary.All types of amazing animals and very knowledgeable guides throughout the sanctuary or zoo.Book there to save on online fees.Call them and tell them your group size and they will be V expecting you.Couldn’t do it all in one day. Was able to come back the next day and finish.No restaurant but a buffet that is pretty good. $16. The people there are very helpful and nice. Highly recommend for all ages.Cultural experience we made our on coffee chocolate. Very good. Please tip.They work hard

Kyle C — Google review

Another excellent visit to the animal sanctuary. We had a great time seeing and learning about the different animals. The staff who was attending the frog area was fantastic. He went above and beyond to walk us through the exhibit and this was a highlight of the day. Purchasing tickets online is straightforward and the staff onsite work well together to provide an excellent customer experience. Thanks for a great visit!

Kathy I — Google review

We had a great afternoon at Diamante Eco Adventure Park. Zip lining was awesome. There were lots of interesting critters for our toddler to see and learn about. Her fave was the butterflies and the toucans.Convenient location to the Riu. A few minutes by free shuttle. Perfect off resort experience.

Hannah B — Google review

We did the zip lines, animal sanctuary and cultural experience. Amazing all day excursion! The ziplines were really fun and have an auto-brake feature. This was scary at first but once you get used to it, its no big deal. The animal sanctuary was breathtaking. The animals were so close and active. The enclosures were beautiful and it was easy to walk around. The cultural experience learning about chocolate and coffee was really cool. Seemed like everyone there was enjoying themselves.

Wendy S — Google review

This was an amazing day! Some of my group were afraid to do the Superman zipline (starts from a height of 80 stories), but those that braved it absolutely loved it and didn't regret trying.The buffet meal was pretty good and the staff everywhere were terrific.Best to book and arrive as early as possible to spend the entire day.

Brian S — Google review

Fantastic facility. Well organized. Good transportation to the top of each zip line. The food at the lodge was good. Staff was very helpful. The animal park is well kept and fun to go through. Waze gives good directions and easy to find.

David N — Google review

The ecological adventure park was very worth the hype and we had a great experience. While the place is most certainly catered towards families but the animals were great to look at and the zip line was a lot of fun. (Mind you weight limit exists at 280 lbs so if you’re a chunky monkey be aware you won’t be able to dabble)

Helder T — Google review

Great experience! The zip lines are really exciting and well done. You end up at the bottom of the zip lines crossing a bridge across a pond with alligators. The animal exhibits have a good number of animals and a great variety. Highly recommend.

Chris G — Google review

This is a highly advertised experience in the airport and billboards across every town. It's a tourist attraction where locals wouldn't go but it's one of those things you do once and never again.We paid for the all day adventure pass online. The shuttles from parking, office and attractions are quick (less than 15 min intervals). We visited on a weekday and there were hardly any crowds! The check-in process was easy/quick.The animal park takes approx 1-1.5 hr to walk through. We loved the close-up 9am sloth feeding. There's 3 two-toed sloths. We also saw the 10am feline welcoming, where they released the jaguars. The enclosure glass is up close so you can really see them! One of the pumas was sad to see as it used to be a morbidly obese pet before it was in the park's care. There's also walk-in exhibits where you can walk among the animals including a 500 butterfly cage and toucan cage.The lunch buffet included in the all-day pass had a decent spread of food! There was a ton of fresh greens and associated toppings for the salad. The roasted chicken and beef fajitas were seasoned well but both terribly over cooked that they were dry. There's also American options like pizza, french fries, and bread. There's delicious fruit juices, iced tea, coffee, and rice pudding.Ziplining took a half hour in a small group of 5, fun superman zipline. However, the photo package costing $68 was not worth it!The all-day tickets also includes the culture tour, which our group ending up forgoing.

Steph W — Google review

Loved the Zipline portion of this adventure. The food on top of the hill was the best yet in Costa Rica. The chicken was good and the tuna pasta was great . Fried plantain yum.The view was most spectacular from there.The ride up via the bus or trucks to get to the zipline pavilions can be a bit scary for those not accustomed to hills.My only negative was there was no one at the foot of the hill to give is the tour of the animal sanctuary and no instructions were given to wait. So please ask about each step of the process once you get to the hill and not be rushed .

Oliver M — Google review

This was a lot of fun! Of course, you are charged tourist prices. $90 after taxes makes for a pretty expensive zip line given that it only takes an hour to do the 4 lines. However, the Superman line was one of the greatest experiences of my life as you are hundreds of feet off the ground and have a spectacular view of the area.

Zack — Google review

Fun, all-day family experience!Suggest early arrival as the waiting times at zip lines can get warm.Do zip lines first, enjoy lunch, then head for animal sanctuary or beaches.Animals well-loved, but please be kind to them…watched one family knock on capuchin’s glass until it rushed them in a rage. Late afternoon feedings at sanctuary get great caretaker and animal interactions.Lunch buffet tastes great!

SouTex T — Google review

If you are traveling to Costa Rica you MUST check out Diamante Eco Adventure Park. I traveled to CR with a group of 7 women and a coworker told about Diamante. So glad she did because we all enjoyed our day there. We each purchased the Adventure Pass which is a full day pass (9:00a - 4:30p). This pass includes the Zipline which was amazing, animal sanctuary, cultural tour which was informative ans entertaining, plus a lunch buffet that was good and abundant. I also purchased the ATV pass and it was amazing as well. Don't second guess it, just purchase a pass and buy the photo package too!

Rochelle F — Google review

4.5

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4.5

(1530)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (51)

RIU Hotel 350 east, Guanacaste Province, Playa Matapalo, 50503, Costa Rica

+506 2105 5200

8

Islets of Granada

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Island

Nature & Parks

The Islets of Granada is a group of 365 volcanic islets located off the coast of Granada. These serene islands are home to private residences and tourist accommodations, making it an attractive destination for travelers. Visitors can take a boat tour to explore the different islands and learn about their unique history and ownership. One notable island was purchased by a veterinarian for the local monkey population to live in. The tours offer opportunities to observe the local wildlife, with monkeys occasionally boarding boats as one such experience.

Son 365 islas, el lugar es precioso hay islas privadas y también las hay turísticas, un sitio para ir a visitar en familia y compartir de una linda aventura.(Translated by Google)There are 365 islands, the place is beautiful, there are private islands and there are also tourist ones, a place to visit with the family and share a nice adventure.

Elizabeth R — Google review

Nice boat trip out to the islands in Lake Nicaragua. Enjoyable with lots of flora and fauna particularly bats and monkeys to see!

CK C — Google review

Es realmente hermosooo,en un tours privado,nos hicieron recorrido a las isletas,y nos dejaron por 3 horas en una pequeña iska con restoran y piscina,muy bonito(Translated by Google)It's really beautiful, in a private tour, they took us on a tour of the islets, and they left us for 3 hours in a small iska with a restaurant and pool, very nice

Gerardina D — Google review

A very nice boat ride to the isles of Granada lake.

Becky B — Google review

Beautiful islands off the coast of Granada. We took a boat tour to see the different islands and it is definitely recommended if you are anywhere near. Our favorite island was the one that a Veterinarian bought a long time ago in order for the local monkey population to live in. It was great learning about the history of the Islands and who owns which one. Will definitely love to do this tour again if we are ever back in Nicaragua.

Jose C — Google review

Great place to spend your vacations in Nicaragua. This is one of the most beautiful places in this country with a great variety of animals and plants.

Grethel ( — Google review

From our hostel we could book the tour for 15$ and it was great! We were the only two in the boat and our guide, Lorenzo was amazing, telling us about the islands and local wildlife. The hightlight was monkeys jumping aboard the ship, just an all around amazing experience.

Miro Z — Google review

This is a really fun experience where you can explore Nicaraguas islands called “Isletas”. Some activity’s are fishing, kayaking, visiting the monkey island and get boat tours. Its around 45 minutes away from Managua the capital city of Nicaragua. Beautiful place to go 100% recomendad. Thank you for listening, have a nice day hope I can see you around in las isletas de granada one day.

Rod20 — Google review

Great place, did Kayak Tour with Vladmir Kayak and was great

Sean — Google review

Mi país tiene los lagos más bellos del mundo y sus islas hermosas, y lo más lindo de agua dulce.My country has the most beautiful lakes in the world and its beautiful islands, and the most beautiful freshwater.Mon pays a les plus beaux lacs du monde et ses belles îles, et la plus belle eau douce(Translated by Google)My country has the most beautiful islands of the world and its hermosa islands, and the most sweet water lindo.My country has the most beautiful lakes in the world and its beautiful islands, and the most beautiful freshwater.My country has the most beautiful lakes in the world and its beautiful islands, and the most beautiful fresh water

Eyder E — Google review

Great place to spend a couple hours on a boat touring the islands. See interesting historical sites and enjoy the views! Make sure to see the old fort and the monkeys!

Cody S — Google review

4.7

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4.5

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Nicaragua

9

Copan Ruinas

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Sights & Landmarks

Ancient Ruins

Copán Ruinas is a town located in the Copán Department of Honduras, close to the Guatemalan border. It is an important tourist destination due to its proximity to the UNESCO World Heritage Site, Copán Archaeological site, which belongs to the ancient Mayan civilization. The town features charming colonial-style streets lined with numerous restaurants that offer tasty local cuisine. Despite being a small town, it is considered safe for solo travelers at night.

4.5

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Copán, Honduras

10

The Belize Zoo and Tropical Education Center

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Zoo

Outdoor Activities

The Belize Zoo, established in 1983, serves as a sanctuary for native animals that are orphaned or have been rehabilitated. Unlike traditional zoos which operate as maximum-security prisons for wildlife, the Belize Zoo provides natural habitats to its many rare species such as tapirs, coatimundi and pumas along with other exotic animals.

Excellent experience, very friendly staff. It wasn't to busy when we're there, the majority of animals there are rescue ones, I think this is something amazing, well done to everyone who works at this Zoo, they do a very good job, the place is very clean and the animals are very look after. All are so happy to assist you if you need, its free wifi around the place.Restaurant its a good option for a bite after the walk. The place is small but had a very good variety of animals.

Hoggustina H — Google review

We really enjoyed our visit to the Belize Zoo!It was our first day in Belize, journeying from the Airport to San Ignacio, and what a way to begin our adventure. You can clearly tell that the people of the zoo truly care about their animals from everything from the enclosures to their sweet signs.It is a great way to get a taste of Belizean wildlife as all of the animals have been found within Belize and being rehabilitated.Highly recommend!

Megan S — Google review

The animals are well looked after here. They have huge enclosures and are given the opportunity to have some privacy from people. The staff at the zoo were also really informative and friendly. If you want to do something extra special you can volunteer to look after the animals giving you the opportunity to get up close and personal with them. I think this is probably the best zoo I've been to where the welfare of the animal is first and foremost. I highly recommend visiting this zoo.

Vanessa B — Google review

This place was awesome. We loved seeing all the exotic animals. The best part was a Jaguar running at my wife and pouncing on the cage! While the animals are in confined spaces, it's more wild than a US zoo. Very cool

Eric E — Google review

We LOVED it. All the animals are being rehabilitated, which is so great. Unlike other zoos, this setting truly is jungle. Down to the bugs (wear bug spray). There are amazing animals all around. Of course you'll love the leopard, toucan, and the snakes. But you'll be surprised and delighted be the other birds, like the Harpy Eagle, and the ocelots (listen to them grunt!), Owls (they'll hoot), and the pelicans (flapping to their wings like crazy in the water). Do take the time to read the signs, they are both funny and informative.

Mini R — Google review

A very cool little zoo. We went from opening time til about noon. We got to see the tapirs eat. We paid for a meet and greet with one of the jaguar and it was 1000% worth it. It was awesome being able to read about each animal's story and how the zoo rescued them. The signs were also funny as heck.

Loan ( — Google review

If this is on your way somewhere it’s a nice stop; but I would not go out of your way. It’s $15 USD per person. $5 for kids under 12.It’s more of a refugee center than a normal zoo. Your admission goes towards feeding the animals which is nice. A few jaguars, lots of birds and lots of tapirs. Bring so much bug spray. There’s a gift shop that’s a bit overpriced and a small cafe with ice cream and drinks that are very affordable. Clean bathrooms.

Alessandra C — Google review

Small zoo showcasing native Belize fauna in naturalistic settings. Needs better signage. Good food and drink. Has a gift shop.

Glen J — Google review

We had a lovely morning at the zoo. It is packed with animals. It is much better if you get there for feeding time (10am-11am for us) as a lot of the animals are easier to see when they are being fed. We had lunch there. They have a good variety of local foods and cold drinks. Bring big spray as the zoo is like walking through a rainforest.

Matthew H — Google review

This zoo is so cool, we came here to check out all the local wildlife and it did not disappoint, the gift shop is great, they've got a refreshments area and the zoo itself is built around the animals in their natural habitats. There's plenty of experiences to feed the animals and some get up close and personal. I had a great time and can't wait to go back.

Isabel M — Google review

Our family of four had a fantastic time. The food was great, the pine cabin was comfy, the pool was refreshing, and the macaw encounter and night tour of the zoo were really special. The hospitality was fantastic, we felt well cared for!

SB W — Google review

Quite nice. Bring your water and cool wet towels. In addition to the animals, we loved the zoos down to earth and witty signage that made you laugh 😃! Can you find the "kitty kitty " in the photos with green foliage??

Thomas R — Google review

Delightful! We loved that all the animals are rescued, not stolen from the wild, and you can often get great views of them. The clever signage explains more about each animal and how it came to the zoo. We were glad we had a guided tour; our guide was able to find and point out the shy animals, and he knew his way around the zoo's winding paths.

Linnea C — Google review

Small but nice zoo for rescued animals. Paths between enclosures are well laid out, lush and beautiful to walk through. Staff are all very friendly and helpful. There's a restaurant and gift store on site. We didn't do a tour or animal encounter but there are some available. We spent about an hour here but it was hot and we were using the location as a rest stop

Donella H — Google review

They call this the best little zoo. It really is. The animal habitats were very nice and represented their environment well. It was great seeing animals that I had never seen before.

Spacey J — Google review

The Belize Zoo has always been an amazing place to visit ..even more so for young minds. Our children had a great time, and after a great walk about the grounds , the little restaurant serves affordable and delicious foods.Absolutely worth the drive to see the animals of Belize .

Stanley G — Google review

The zoo is absolutely incredible! Such an amazing origin story! You get to see animals all native to Belize, all of them are there because they were rescued and unable to be returned to the wild, so they get to live happy healthy lives and represent their species and bring awareness to the detrimental effects of deforestation and poaching.The zoo was easy to get to on the local bus system, and there is a small cafe where you can get some food and drink.

Moriah W — Google review

All the animals are from Belize and have been relocated to the zoo due to extenuating circ*mstances. The enclosure are native to the animals environment and mostly large enough to hide from visitors if desired. For an extra fee we were given the opportunity to feed Edgar the jaguar chicken provided by his keeper at the zoo. He had lost his eye to cancer, but they have been able to save his life and provide the necessary care he requires. Looked healthy and had a beautiful fur pattern coat.

S S — Google review

My 5 children and I had a lovely day at the Belize zoo. The signs introduced us to the animals at the zoo and who they came to be a part of the zoo. The message of conservation was clear. There were some amazing flowers in full bloom. The gift shops have great prices and unique items that I haven't seen before. They have a great assortment of books to purchase such as Belizean picture books for kids, medical plants, cook books, and botany books. They had more, but those are the ones I was interested in. They have a restaurant that served tasty meals. The restroom is out by the parking lot, so make sure you check that out before going inside the zoo. It was a beautiful day.

V I — Google review

A must-do in Belize. Literally the best zoo I have ever been to. Very walkable and easy to fit in, only took a couple hours. The jaguar experience was my favorite part, reasonably priced to have a very up close experience that contributes directly to the animals. They care deeply about conservation and all animals were in large enclosures that seemed very natural and comfortable for them. Also they are all rescues/rehabilitated that couldn’t survive in the wild on their own making the zoo an opportunity for them to live in peace.

Kennedy C — Google review

We stayed in a pond house and did the night time tour. Amazing doesn’t even describe the whole experience. The night tour was 100% worth it. Everyone was so knowledgeable. It was great to hear the history of the zoo and of all the animals we saw. A definite must do when in Belize!

Christina B — Google review

My family and I visited the zoo on our first trip to Belize and we had a blast. I loved learning about all the animals like jaguars and tapirs through the hand-painted signs and enclosures. The landscaping was also so beautiful and we stopped to look at many plants. I also saw a little sign of a wedding reception that took place at the zoo and my heart melted! Can definitely understand why a couple would want their special day at this zoo, it’s just amazing :)

Kiriyana C — Google review

Fairly small but in the right ways 1.5-2.5 hours is sufficient. Very intimate. Loved the Jaguar bridge above the walkway! Admission would have been worth it just for seeing the Tapir during feeding.

Brady F — Google review

Beautiful wildlife rescue and education centre. Very affordable activities like feeding the tapir and red macaws. Incredible animals, well looked after. Highly was seeing the Jaguar and harpy eagle - just amazing.

E R — Google review

We enjoyed visiting a zoo that felt more 'natural' in the space and environment afforded to its animals. Not a huge area, but well worth a 1-2 walk. Especially appreciate that the animals here are either rehabilitated by the zoo, or are for some other reason unable to live in the wild

Campbell M — Google review

Fantastic zoo that really cares about their animals and offers wonderful tours.We booked a private tour and our guide Jajaira was absolutely incredible! She was very knowledgeable, funny, cared about the animals and seemed to really love her job. I would highly recommend doing a private tour, you will learn so much and have better interactions with the animals.Definitely recommend stopping by The Belize Zoo!P.S. Don’t miss out on the delicious food at the gift shop; it’s quite the hidden gem! The quesadillas and empanadas were delicious!

Jonathan A — Google review

The Belize Zoo was the highlight of our trip! We stayed at TEC which is just down the road from the Zoo and has a shuttle to bring you back and forth. They arranged our transportation from the airport and to our next destination. The staff members were very friendly and our 1-night stay included dinner and breakfast. They were able to accommodate a gluten allergy for someone in our group and the dessert with dinner was a hit! Our room had AC, our own bathroom, and no bugs. I would highly recommend both the VIP morning tour & night tour. You get unique and up-close experiences with animals you can’t get anywhere else. Everyone who works there is very knowledgeable and clearly cares about the animals.

Lily G — Google review

On our trip to Belize, we visited the Zoo. We enjoyed seeing the wildlife native to the region. Also, it was wonderful to read the stories of the many rescues of animals they had made throughout the years.

Jude T — Google review

All rescued animals with great stories, you can get a GPS map on your phone to make sure to see everyone. We went in the hottest part of the day so everyone was sleeping and still but it was lunchtime too so got to see crocodiles eat!

T S — Google review

The zoo was wonderful. It's like stepping into the jungle, without the risks. It's well worth paying extra to arrange the guided tour. The guide knows all the animal's favorite hiding places and where you can get the best views of them. He made sure we got to see everything. He also had a lot of insights to the animal's history and behaviors. I would absolutely do it again. I recommend bringing water, as the only place to get any is at the souvenir and restraunt area at the end. Also wear sturdy shoes as there is a lot of walking and a few uneven paths.

Samantha C — Google review

I stayed in a Forest Cabana, which is no A/C (but has a strong fan) and "shared" bathroom - it's 4 showers, 4 toilets, and 4 sinks for 10 cabanas. When I was there only other cabana was occupied, so it was fine!Nadine, Carlos, Melvin and the rest of the TEC staff were all so kind and helpful. You ARE in the tropics - there are scorpions, etc but if you ask at the office, they will remove - no charge (haha!!). Dinner and breakfast were incredible, and they do make accommodations for veg/vegan, gluten, anything you need.It was wonderful to take the night tour of the zoo (and I got to help feel Indy and the porcupine!) and then come back the next day to see all of the daytime friends as well.

Lisa F — Google review

Definitely recommend! We arrived and were a little confused about where to go... so we took a little drive around the perimeter wall of the zoo! Thanks to Whats App- we were able to get sorted out and get to our lodging at the TEC 🤦‍♀️. The swimming pool was screened in and just the perfectly cool temperature for refreshing hot, tired travelers! Dinner was amazing. Breakfast was amazing! They were able to accomodate my gluten free dietary needs.We were able to visit with others at meals and in the pool.We also took the Nocturnal Zoo Tour... highly recommend- lots of information... bring your questions if you do it- you have an actual zookeeper to educate you in a small group. We fed some animals, saw even more- petted a tapir. Absolutely worth staying up so long and going out in the heat!Belize started rolling blackouts while we were there, so 3 hours of no fans was a little uncomfortable in the unseasonable heat.... but I really can't blame the TEC or Zoo for THAT!If you have the opportunity to stay here (if they

Big B — Google review

We stayed one night in Casita and did the nocturnal tour at the zoo. Everything was amazing and I wish we had planned more time here! The grounds are beautiful, the food was excellent, and our guest house was spacious and quiet. Juan Carlos was very helpful and a great birder. We were surrounded by wildlife and jungle sounds. I would have loved more time to explore the trails and relax in the hammock.

Sarah M — Google review

Coolest zoo I've ever been to. Read up about the history and mission of the zoo, it's definitely not your run of the mill zoo. It's quite small, but in the best way. Also, very affordable. Ask about the Jaguar experiences when you're purchasing your ticket!

Amanda S — Google review

4.6

(1826)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (64)

4.5

(1908)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (65)

Mile 29 George Price Hwy, La Democracia, Belize

+501 613-4966

I'll never travel to McKinney without this trip planner again

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11

Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve

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National reserve

Sights & Landmarks

Ancient Ruins

The Cahal Pech Archaeological Reserve is a historical site with ancient Mayan temples and scenic views, dating back to 1200 BCE. Although smaller than nearby Xunantunich, the unexcavated parts of the reserve hold much promise. The excavated areas are well-preserved and tell compelling stories of the past. Visitors are advised to take note of significant structures such as the priest's area, children's quarters, and other notable features in the back of the reserve.

We drove from Placencia to San Ignacio for the day to see the city and visit the ruins. These were a great option because we had a 3 year old with us. We had the whole site to ourselves on a Thursday morning. The staff were friendly and doing a great job of maintaining the property. The ruins are gorgeous and so much fun to walk around in and climb up. My son enjoyed playing hide and seek. It was $5 USD per person and well worth it! This is a great alternative to the ruins that are a little bit farther away and less safe for younger children. They were stunning!

Sonja M — Google review

Oh wow, this place is really impressive. A huge sports complex 1200's style. You can really feel the presence of a special energy here. Thousands upon thousands of people over all the years have left an impression on this place. I'm no hippie, but this place feels incredible. For 10 US and some exercise, you can really have an opportunity to experience something pretty special. Run around, play all over stuff and be respectful. Just take a min to feel the special sauce flowing from this place. 😌

Lucas H — Google review

This site is Compact, easy to reach and a very manageable walk to see these fantastic ruins. It is super cool with many complete chambers that enable you to visualize how they lived. Fascinating and well worth the $5US per person entry fee. I say this site should not be missed and we have been to 4 ruins recently.

J P — Google review

This is a gem of a place, with far fewer visitors than the big Maya sites in the region. Apart from a couple of others we encountered, we had it pretty much to ourselves for an hour, which was not really long enough to enjoy all that was on offer. If it lacks some of the enormous buildings of the main sites, plenty has been excavated and it is a delightfully atmospheric place to explore, well worth the effort to visit.

Phil B — Google review

Very quiet and peaceful, we saw only a few other visitors there. The structure is almost like a maze, different to the other sites I have seen. Entry fee costs $10 local dollars for non-resident.

Julia T — Google review

A short walk from town and 10 Belize dollars for foreigners to enter, 5 for locals. A beautiful site right outside the city. The ruins are perfect for exploring. Our kids loved being able to walk into and through most of the ruins which are very well maintained. The people working there are super kind, the grounds are beautiful and mostly shaded and the restrooms were very clean too. A must visit for anyone in the area.

Jacqueline L — Google review

Another day. Another Mayan ruin. Yet I can’t get enough of them. Having spent previous trips to South America and Mexico I thought I’d have had enough of them but no, each ruin has a story, a history and that many people lived here as a community once upon a time.This set up is very good. Plenty of parking. Nice entrance, small fee to get in, rooms with descriptions of the site with maps, ceramic pots and artefacts. Toilets are located in this building. Then a short paved walk to the site itself. It’s not large but there was something magical here. Perhaps it was the lack of people. Or maybe the silence except for cicadas and birds. Or maybe even the symmetrical nature of the ruins which with courtyards that feel like a backyard.I sat on my own for some time listening to the wildlife. Feeling the cool breeze rising as the sun went down. The waft of that rainy smell on its way.Perhaps I like this ruin more than others because it’s so peaceful and I felt a humble connection with Cahal Pech.Highly recommend.

Debi S — Google review

Spectacular. If you want a very easy Mayan Ruin to climb, this is definitely your best choice. It is easy to get around, and it's very beautiful and unique . It is great for visitors with children.

Jashua N — Google review

This is wonderfully accessible sight, even if you don't have a vehicle. It is up the hill in San Ignacio and easily accessible by cab. It is well worth the time to wander around this amazing site. There are no artifacts to be seen in the structures themselves but the history outlined in the small museum you pass through gives you a good insight into what you are seeing when you arrive to the ruins. This is a site that is hands on accessible and very interesting to imagine what life might have been like there some 3000 years ago.

Glenn B — Google review

A smaller site than the nearby Xunantunich, but one worth visiting. Most of the site is unexcavated, from the parts you do see you can imagine how much more goodness lays buried. The parts that are excavated are in amazing condition, and contain great stories. After you enter on the left you'll see a half excavated home, standing there and reflecting is recommended.Remember to checkout the kids quarters, the priest's area, and other notables in the back part. Your visit will be memorable if you are with a guide, they can make the stories come alive.

Mini R — Google review

Small ruin above San Ignacio, costs the same as Xunantunich even though it's much smaller. The museum on site has good information texts. Definitely a worthy stroll if you have time in the town.

Petr V — Google review

Very quiet and few people here. We walked from city center by walk about 20 mins, met nice people who wished luck!Inside the ruins there are different zones to explore, about 30 mins is ok for everything. We saw big snake and bird toucan with colourful beak so it's half like mini zoo as well!

Tripi A — Google review

Extremely beautiful and well preserved/maintained ruins. Not a huge site and not a long hike to get to them. This is one of the most family-friendly sites that I have ever been too.

Roy M — Google review

Very impressive Mayan ruins, extremely well preserved and great to walk around and over. Very quiet and untouristed. Walk up to the site is extremely steep but worth it at the top

Emma R — Google review

Sehr schöne Tempelanlage mit kleinem Vistor Center mit vielen Informationen. Es sind schöne Wege angelegt und man kann mit etwas Glück viele Tiere beobachten. Wir haben Tukane zwischen den Bäumen entdeckt. Man kann die Tempelanlagen gut begehen.(Translated by Google)Very nice temple complex with a small Vistor Center with lots of information. There are beautiful paths and, with a bit of luck, you can observe many animals. We spotted toucans between the trees. The temple complex is easy to walk around.

Isabel — Google review

Cool place. There's a small indoor museum and then you walk up a path to the ruins, which are surrounded by huge trees. We saw an aguti here!This site is quite small and you can definitely expect to be through it in under an hour.

Ry S — Google review

Very first Mayan archaeological site we visited in Belize and definitely was the smallest but still incredibly impressive. It was raining the day we went but it didn't pour on us and we had the entire site to ourselves. It was a very special experience and easily accessible for small kids (we have a toddler so these things are important to us)

Brielle S — Google review

This site is impressive, more for its age and its place in the span of Mayan history than for its size. Its more rugged, less developed nature is also appealing. An easy stop in San Ignacio, a steep walk up the hill from the traffic circle, or there's reasonable parking if you rented a car. Enjoy the butterfly garden, and if you're luck like we were, you might see (or maybe hear) a howler monkey!

Mike B — Google review

This is a beautiful place! It is one of the smaller Mayan sites in the area, but it's larger than I expected. We saw a lot of birds and butterflies too.

Sarah M — Google review

Way bigger than we expected and well worth the time to visit.This is the third largest Mayan site in Belize and is so accessible being right in San Ignacio. We visited in the afternoon and almost had the entire place to ourselves.The ruins are fantastic and we also saw howler monkeys and toucans in the beautiful vegetation surrounding the site.

Chad T — Google review

Went on a Saturday morning and we had the place to ourselves. It was a really wonderful experience climbing and exploring the ruins- we even spotted a Toucan ! Technically a smaller scale site but definitely worth the trip. Pack some water as you get a workout climbing up and down the steps.

Shira M — Google review

We were the only ones there for awhile and it was incredibly peaceful. Beautiful ruins!

Travis R — Google review

We had a great time walking through this wonderful site. It was inspiring to walk through such ancient ruins by such a simple but sophisticated people the little visitor center was filled with authentic pottery and a brief historical explanation.

Justin P — Google review

Cahal Pech is the little brother to Xunantunich but is so much closer to San Ignacio. So if you are pressed for time, or don't have transportation out to Benque, or the ferry to Xunantunich is closed due to high river levels, this is a decent second option. Sure, it's not as grandiose nor impressive but it does have some qualities of its own. There is a small little museum in the house where you pay your admission, there is a nice trail, there is a pyramid of average size, some bats in the little rooms and alcoves, a couple of excavations, and some other mounds of rock. 60 - 90 minutes ought to do it. 4 stars.Note: Google Maps is incorrect... do not follow it either by car or by foot... it will send you astray. From the roundabout go up the road toward Yellow Belly Backpackers Hostel, 50 m in at the fork in the road (just before the hostel) stay to the right and continue up that road to the parking lot. Do NOT, I repeat, do NOT turn left at any point in time.

Wong F — Google review

A great morning walk through of history in San Ignacio. Was not expecting the entrance fee or how big the park was considering our Airbnb is neighbors with it. But to explore on our own was still worth an hour of our time and we could overhear some facts from other touring groups.

Jacob S — Google review

Amazing archeological site that actually lets you walk inside and observe the ruins.Fascinating views and interesting historical objects all around. Very beautiful entrance with lots of botanical beauty. Definitely want to come back and spend more time.

Nathan L — Google review

We just had to visit. We are stay at Lost Compass Cabin as, directly behind the National Park.My first Mayan Ruins. I was slightly disappointed. I expected big blocks like they make the Pyramids in Egypt out of. Or Olaytantambo(sp?)Still, it's an impressive "collection" of stones pilled up in a pretty good set set of buildings. That's an usual way to "👍"

James G — Google review

4.7

(981)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (79)

4.5

(1586)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (80)

4WWG+9CJ, W. Ford Young Drive, C.A., San Ignacio, Belize

+501 804-0207

12

Agua Azul Waterfalls

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Nature & Parks

Nature preserve

Waterfalls

Agua Azul Waterfalls is a famous tourist attraction in Palenque, known for its distinctive blue water and rainforest surroundings. Visitors can swim in some parts of the falls and buy souvenirs from several stalls situated there. The water may appear green or blue due to the ongoing rain season but remains a sight to behold nonetheless.

5 stars and a Wow. Worth the horrible bus ride. There are many places to eat. You can swim in a small area of the waterfalls. There are several stalls that sell t shirts and other mementos

Diana C — Google review

Beautiful sets of waterfalls. Make sure and do the whole walk, the waterfalls get bigger at the top and that’s where we saw the monkeys. We didn’t swim as we were recovering from the intense bus ride.

Wannabe W — Google review

Nice waterfalls, pity there is so much stalls on the pathway which takes away from the enjoyment of the walk up to the top. The rope bridge is not in a good condition and did not use it. Otherwise worth the visit.

Eugene M — Google review

Worth the trip. It’s as beautiful as it looks. The water is incredible. Shops and restaurants took over the side of the river, but it doesn’t feel too annoying as a tourist. The site is truly beautiful and big! I was wondering why we were going to spend 2h30 there and I understand why. Nice walk with so many waterfalls, different swimming spots. I could have stayed longer!

Jérémie A — Google review

Nice waterfall surounded by way to many souvenir shop. You can walk upstream to see more of it. It's 2h from palenque, the road and landscapes are actually really nice. Don't go there for the only purpose of going there. Do a trip or stop on your way to san Cristóbal or vice vera.Explanation: ⭐Interest: ⭐⭐⭐Accessibility: ⭐⭐Price: 💰💰

Thomas L — Google review

12 hour bus trip from Playa del Carmen and these waterfalls did not disappoint. I do not think that any of these pictures do this place justice. It is a pretty big area with many places to swim and you can spend the entire day taking pics, Shopping at the stalls or eating some great food.

Roly R — Google review

Amazing waterfalls. Too bad the water was green/blue tough to the rainwater. (Because of the rain season) But overall a sight to behold!

Maikel F — Google review

I LOVED Agua Azul! It's incredibly beautiful! Perfectly refreshing to swim in! There are a lot of vendors, stalls, and restaurants. We enjoyed a meal, a coconut, and bought a cool tshirt as well as numerous snacks as we were approached constantly. I found the drive there (from Palenque) enjoyable as well.

Dawn C — Google review

The Cascadas de Agua Azul is a breathtaking site, perfect for both leisurely strolls and refreshing swims. However, visitors should be aware of restricted access areas due to the presence of indigenous communities. Friendly reminders will be given if you inadvertently cross into these restricted zones.Getting there and ensuring safety while traveling by private vehicle from Palenque: You'll need to navigate a stretch of the famous Palenque-Ocosingo highway, known for its numerous speed bumps that slow down traffic. Here, both vendors and opportunists may attempt to solicit money. During our visit on a Sunday, we didn't encounter much criminal activity, but we did encounter a couple of speed bumps manned by young children with ropes. While the theory is that they block the road to request money, in practice, we found it best to simply close the car windows, honk the horn, and drive slowly until they move aside. This approach worked well for us, but it's important to note that this area doesn't always feel entirely secure. It's advisable to avoid driving at night or in poor weather conditions.Toll booths: We paid for two toll booths, with each costing 40 pesos per person, although it wasn't clear if the first toll booth was "official."Parking: Parking is free, but as soon as you step out of your car, you'll be approached by children selling fruits or crafts. It's a bit overwhelming but can be tolerated respectfully.Walking paths: The walking paths are not long or difficult, and the viewpoints and swimming areas are well-marked. In some areas, there are additional activities that require payment, but access to swimming in the pools and beaches, as well as walking within the designated areas, is included in the entrance fee.Food and drinks: As with all tourist sites, prices are higher than normal. The further you venture from the parking area, the more expensive everything becomes. Each can of Modelo beer was priced between 40 and 50 pesos. You can bring your own food and drinks into the entire area, which is what we would recommend. However, it's essential to be respectful of the environment and indigenous communities. For example, littering or getting drunk is unacceptable behavior.

Patricia S — Google review

Stunning place. It was not a sunny day but the water was still perfectly blue. Lots and lots of waterfalls. The place goes on and on forever. If you are planning to have a swim and walk around you will need about 2 hours. The food offered on the site is in general quite mediocre.

Nikko — Google review

Once in a lifetime views. Incredible even during the rainy season. Suggested to go March/April for full blue effect. 4.5 hour private taxi ride. Paid 3000 pesos round trip from San Cris. Incredible.

Quinn C — Google review

Waterfalls are really beautiful, however it’s very touristy with a lot of vendors all along the pathway. First you pay 40 pesos for entrance to the area and then another 40 for the waterfalls themselfs.Some people try to make you pay for watching your car, not really necessary, but they keep on trying…

Marle D — Google review

Very cool spot and spectacular waterfalls. Defo worth visiting for a day. They have good few spots for a swim to cool down during the day, plenty of street food options, souvenirs stools and fresh coconuts :)

Kama T — Google review

Beautiful place. Do not worry about road, that lead to it. It is safe. But to enjoy waterfalls truly, you need to go till the very end, and take a swim in small cascades there, where mexican children will show you where to jump in cascades. All in all, walk, and swim will take you up to 2 to 3 hours. One of mexican journey highlights

Iveta S — Google review

Really impressive waterfalls. Nicely accessible through stairs and bridges. You can even swim in some areas. Nice atmosphere. Very calming.A lot of sellers and eating places though. Takes the charm off a little in my opinion.

Redford M — Google review

4.7

(12713)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (85)

4.5

(2759)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (86)

Las casadas de agua azul, Sentro, 29920 Cascada de agua azul, Chis., Mexico

+52 916 108 5518

13

Zona Arqueológica Palenque

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Archaeological site

Sights & Landmarks

Zona Arqueológica Palenque is a renowned archaeological site and tourist attraction that features the ruins of an ancient Maya city-state. It is situated at the precise point where the first hills emerge from the Gulf coast plain, with a dense jungle serving as a striking backdrop to its exquisite Maya architecture. The site spans 15 sq km, with hundreds of ruined buildings, but only a compact central area has been excavated.

A wonderful experience! Please request a tour from Mr. Victor Hernandez, he has been working there for at least 40 years. His knowledge of the pyramids, and Mayan culture is outstanding. He describes things as if he was there when it happened. I can tell he truly cares about this park and it's history. He is a living Mexican National Treasure. Please take you time to request a tour with Mr. Hernandez.

Travis L — Google review

Extremely interesting please. Great city with interesting architecture. So nice atmosphere in jungle. Really nice place to just walk around.But suddenly all the main buildings are closed. Governance of the place is extremely poor. They hate tourists in here.

Vassiliy K — Google review

Absolutely worth to see! One of the most amazing ruins. Worth to take a local guide and see jungle. prices of souvenirs were quite ok, once you negotiate a bit.

Magda P — Google review

Pretty stunning ruins. Guides are expensive at the gate but get cheaper the more you go into the park - don’t pay more than $500 for one. If you’re on a budget a guide isn’t necessary there are lots of great info boards that describe the history. Takes about 90 mins to wander around. It’s HOT though bring some water for sure

Alex A — Google review

Extremely beautiful and powerful experience.We took the 2 hour tour with Rubi the local guide in English and he was FANTASTIC!We loved every second with him and the stories and knowledge he shared with us.Highly recommended!(And thanks again Rubi)

Eylon A — Google review

Take a colectivo from in front of the bus station in Palenque (17.508344, -91.989870) for 30 pesos. It's a 15 min ride to the building where you have to buy two tickets - one for the national park (105 pesos) and another to get into the ruins for 90 pesos.From there, it's a 1.5 km walk to the park entrance. You will have your ticket checked along the way; make sure the stamp on the back isn't smudged or they may accuse you of trying to reuse a ticket from another day.Expect to be offered guide services; I was quoted 300 pesos per hour as the local rate.Expect to spend at least 2 hours exploring the ruins. Several of the ruins are climbable, and offer a great view. Be sure to notice the carvings preserved in the temples when you get to the top.When it's time to leave, walk past the modern building (currently blocked off with a line of portable toilets outside it) and down the path. This will take you past a picturesque waterfall. Be careful on the wooden bridge, as it is very slippery (ask me how I know!). The path ends at the booth where the guy checked your ticket. It is here that you can flag a colectivo down for a 30 peso ride back into town.From getting on the bus at the start of the day to getting off the bus at the end, my day was almost 5 hours, but I did stop to talk to people.Note - go early in the day to beat the crowds. I wanted to also beat some of the heat, but I think that that was impossible!

Michael G — Google review

It's arguably better than Chichen Itza and Tikal. We visited in the middle of the afternoon on a weekday, and there was hardly anyone else there.We paid 25 pesos per person for a collectivo from Palenque which unfortunately only took us as far as the ticket office and we would have had to walk the final 2km up the hill if a second collectivo hadn't come along and taken us up for the final section for 15 pesos each.The complex is beautiful and set against the dense thick jungle. We spent about an hour here, which gave us enough time to visit all the temples, read each of the plaques, and take lots of pictures. You can pay for tours but they were asking for upwards of 2000 pesos which felt really expensive and I don't think it's really necessary.

Laurie G — Google review

One of the best Maya sights! You need one and a half hour minimum to walk around and enjoy and you should hire an official guide for about 1000.-, they know a lot of interesting stories and also the best way and places to go. Don't miss this.

Manuel G — Google review

Decently nice Mayan ruins, very quick to get through, many guides will charge crazy prices for a jungle tour, make sure you understand what they're offering before going, I think anything less than 200 pesos and they just walk you through the jungle without showing you any of the hidden gems and temples in the jungle. Also admission is 105 pesos plus 90. If you're not already in Palenque, I wouldn't recommend coming here to see it, but it's a decent way to spend an afternoon if you don't mind spending the money and you're already here.

Sean P — Google review

The ruins are simply amazing!We went early in the morning around 8 by collectivo from town center (20 pesos per person).There are two entrances for the ruins, the first one which is next to the museum/ticket centre and the main one 1,5km further up the road, where all the organised buses stops and the tours starts.Since we went on our own, the collectivo dropped us off on the ticket centre/museum where you have to buy two types of tickets - one for entry into the national park and then another queue for the entry in the actual archeological site of Palenque. 180 pesos altogether.(as of March 2022)After we got the tickets we returned on the main road and started walking up the road toward the first entrance. We decided to enter the site from there, instead of walking 1,5km on the road for the main entrance.That was the right choice and we highly recommend that approach, since that part of the site is literally in the jungle, the ruins are surrounded by it, there is a cascade waterfall Sombrillas and small suspension bridge. There were no people at all, all we could hear was the jungle and the river running. It was so Indiana Jones we even got a bit scared, by the wildness and absence of people at all. There were some signs showing direction, but the overall feeling was excitement, as if you are in the jungle on your own.There were guys providing guide services at the entrance, but we chose not to have one. The signs are in English as well, so there is some information, but if you feel you need a guide you can hire from the entrance.After probably 30min being alone we started seeing people coming ahead, who have entered from the main entrance.We explored all the site, there were plenty of vendors selling all kind of stuff, the prices of which were probably the cheapest we have seen in mexico. We would recommend you do your buying there (or from the market at Agua Azul), you can haggle as well. Just for info we bought a medium sized colourful skull pained on a leather piece for 700pesos in Cancun. Similar size pieces were around 200 pesos at the site (after haggling).Another thing, there is a shop next to the ticket centre which sells legit chiapas amber at very reasonable prices. We bought a very nice piece for 85 pesos.

Ivan K — Google review

Some of the pyramids you can still climb, if you hike the first entrance you will get tired but it’s definitely worth it, because of the clear pathway in the middle of the jungle. Springs, waterfalls and rivers that are crystal clear welcome you and once you reach the summit you have made it to the ancient city.

Louie D — Google review

Stunning archeological site and a must visit when coming to Palenque. To make it an unforgettable experience (and not just an expensive walk through a natural park) I recommend hiring a guide.During off season it’s a bit more difficult to find groups but you can negotiate lower prices.I booked a private tour with Enrique in SPANISH and I really enjoyed it (2.5 hours plus 1 hrs jungle). He was young and brought a lot of passion and genuine interest in his job. He had a lot of knowledge about the ruins, Mayan history, temples, medical plants and - belonging to an indigenous tribe - he knows the jungle very well. He answered all my questions, kept taking pictures and took me to the less touristy areas.I recommend you arrive between 8-9 am to avoid heat and crowds.

Daniela D — Google review

You've already seen Chichen Itza and Teotihuacan. I'd still recommend you to see Palenque as well, it's just so beautiful. I'd also recommend you a guided tour, that takes you into the jungle, it's worth it. Don't forget to bargain a good price, maybe wait a bit outside and team up with other tourists.

Jana R — Google review

What a great spot to take in the archaeology. If you’re driving then you’ll purchase an entrance ticket at the first building, be sure to get a National Park bracelet at the same time so you can take the nature trail on the way up. There are big trees and waterfalls to appreciate.

Karl G — Google review

Viel schöner als Chichen Itza! Wagt euch den Weg und kommt her. Viel günstiger als manch andere Ausgrabungsstätte. Haben zu zweit ca. 400 Pesos bezahlt. Der Eintritt ist gestaffelt. Also aufpassen es gibt zwei Schalter! Einen für das Ticket und einen für die staatliche Förderung zum weiteren Erhalt der Ruine. Leider hatten wir das Ticket vergessen und mussten nochmal zurück fahren. Es wird gesagt dass man ganz oben kostenlos parken kann. Allerdings stimmt dies nicht da dort oben nur Souvenirverkäufer stehen und den Parkplatz blockieren. Möchte man an der Straßenseite parken kostet das 100 Pesos. Keine Ahnung ob es auch umsonst wäre aber wir haben einfach bezahlt da die Leute dort auch den ganzen Tag stehen und auf das Auto aufpassen. Wer weiß was sie tun wenn man nicht bezahlt... Will man unten beim Schalter parken ist es definitv kostenlos, muss aber auch erstmal 1,5km nach oben wandern. Bei der drückenden Hitze ist das kein spaß, weswegen wir es nicht gemacht haben. Die verkäufer in der Ruine finde ich nicht zu aufdringlich, haben schöne Sachen da und man kann auch handeln. Lediglich manche Kinder und junge Frauen versuchen einem ständig für 10 Pesos ein Armband vom Maya kalender zu verkaufen... Wir haben keinen Guide oder so genommen, für den Dschungel würde ich es aber im Nachhinein empfehlen. Dort ist der vergessene Tempel und ein Baum in welchem Affen leben. Dies haben wir aber auf eigene Faust erkundet. Viele Tempel darf man auch besteigen und eine einzigartige Sicht genießen. Für die Tempel stehen auch Schilder auf Englisch dar, bei der Hitze aber kaum zu lesen. Eine Doku und zahlreiche einträge bei Google haben auch geholfen. Beachtet bitte dass die eigentliche Ruine noch viel viel größer ist und nicht nicht alle Teile zu besichtigen sind. In meinem Foto ist das nur der dunkelgrüne Teil welcher auch ausreichend ist.(Translated by Google)Much nicer than Chichen Itza! Dare to come this way. Much cheaper than some other excavation sites. The two of us paid around 400 pesos. Admission is staggered. So be careful there are two switches! One for the ticket and one for government funding to further preserve the ruins. Unfortunately we forgot the ticket and had to drive back again. It is said that you can park for free at the top. However, this is not true as there are only souvenir sellers up there blocking the parking lot. If you want to park on the side of the street it costs 100 pesos. I don't know if it would be free but we just paid because the people stand there all day and look after the car. Who knows what they'll do if you don't pay... If you want to park at the counter downstairs, it's definitely free, but you'll have to hike 1.5km up first. It's no fun in the oppressive heat, which is why we didn't do it. I don't find the sellers in the ruins too pushy, they have nice things and you can also bargain. Only some children and young women constantly try to sell you a bracelet from the Mayan calendar for 10 pesos... We didn't take a guide or anything, but in retrospect I would recommend it for the jungle. There is the forgotten temple and a tree in which monkeys live. But we explored this on our own. You can also climb many temples and enjoy a unique view. There are also signs for the temples in English, but these are hard to read in the heat. A documentary and numerous entries on Google also helped. Please note that the actual ruin is much larger and not all parts can be visited. In my photo this is just the dark green part which is sufficient.

Anony M — Google review

My favorite site for ruins so far. One of the few places where you can actually climb the steps of the temples to see things up close. Most of the other big sites like Chichen Itza and Coba no longer allow you to climb the steps of the temples. The atmosphere is relaxed and the vendors selling arts and crafts within the ruins area are very low key and not aggressive with their sales. There is, however, a gauntlet of very aggressive tour guides trying to get you to pay a lot of money for guided tours right when you enter the park headquarters. We just paid the park fee(105 pesos) and the ticket to enter the ruins(95 pesos), found a free parking spot near the entrance to the ruins and enjoyed several hours of stunning architecture.

Jim B — Google review

We got the colectivo to the ticket office (25 pesos) then found a guide to take us on the private jungle & ruins tour which I highly recommend. We paid 2800 pesos for this which seems pricey however it was worth it We paid another 15 pesos to then get us to the site with the guide. Ruins are amazing & we was given a lot of information & the guides offered to take our pictures & answered any questions we had.

C S — Google review

Most stunning Mayan site I’ve visited. You don’t have to book a tour. You can easily get there by colectivo from ADO station. You might have to leave a few of them since there is limited capacity.Buy your tickets at the gate and you are good to go. If you want you can book a guide at the site. The prices do vary and are negotiable.Park entrance 109 MX$ and visit the Mayan site 95 MX$.

Jeroen G — Google review

This place in the midle of the jungle is simply amazing. The best archeological site !

Marie S — Google review

One of the most impressive archaeological sites in all of Mesoamerica... And the world. The site is extremely large and the amount of structure open to the public is only the point of the iceberg of everything that is really there. That said the size and beauty of Palenques pyramids and temples is second to none. It is a good idea to get in to the site as early as possible (at 8 when it opens) to avoid the clouds and get your best shot at seeing spider and howler monkeys as well as several species of birds. Make sure to wear good shoes as many of the jungle paths can get very slippery. Unfortunately the site museum is closed for remodelations at the moment.

Carlos R — Google review

One of the key Maya temple complex sites to visit. Easily accessed from Palenque town - get a collectivo (shared minivan, MXN 25 per person) from directly outside the ADO Bus Station for a 10 minute ride to the entrance of the Zona. Pay MXN 90 entrance + MXN 105 tax to enter. Toilets, gift shop and currently closed museum are by the ticket office. Continue on down the tarmac road for 300 m until you see a path on the left climbing up into the foliage - there is a ticket check here. Make your own way up steps and a winding climb for 10 minutes until you reach the temple complex. A stunning site in a stunning forest setting, with its elevation affording good views across the Chiapas Plateau. You could easily spend an hour to take it all in, allowing for rests in the shade of the spreading trees.

Sri M — Google review

Really good site, the ruins are well kept, very accessible and very interesting. Wasn’t very busy when we went at 9am which was nice. You will be mobbed by tour guides when you arrive and on your way there but you can just go without them, there’s nothing complicated about it. After buying your tickets from the entrance building the best way to do is to walk up the road about 50 meters until you reach the ‘group of bats’ entrance and go up there. It’s also best to come back this way as the other exit is a longish road that you have to walk down. Else you can drive all the way up and enter from the car park. The tickets cost about 150 pesos per person.

Hayden H — Google review

If you're anywhere close you must visit this place. I definitely recommend checking Wikipedia or some other website with proper explanations if that's your thing, because their panels are not very thorough, and the history of this city is amazing and very deep.

Sergio M — Google review

The best ruins we've visited in Mexico so far. Very pleased they are not over crowded with tourists. You can fully appreciate the place and listen to the jungle noises. I had always wanted to visit this place. It was a dream that came true for me.

Nikko — Google review

4.8

(18206)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (91)

5.0

(3734)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (92)

Carretera a Palenque- Zona Archaeologica Km. 8, 29960 Palenque, Chis., Mexico

+52 916 345 2721

14

Hierve el Agua

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40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (95)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (96)

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Nature preserve

Sights & Landmarks

Hierve el Agua is an ancient geological site that boasts towering rock formations resembling waterfalls, as well as natural pools and springs. Visitors are encouraged to bring their bathing suits in order to take a refreshing dip in the saltwater springs. A comfortable private transport is provided, along with delicious Oaxacan coffee for the two-hour journey to reach this unique destination.

The view here is absolutely GORGEOUS!!! My son and I had a blast. The pools and hiking trails are serene. The ride up and down the mountain is beautiful, but it's also long and bumpy. It definitely reminds me of something out of a movie. You'll pass by so many little villages within Oaxaca. The experience altogether is very photo worthy :)

Christina Y — Google review

Had a great visit here with one of the local guides. Very knowledgeable and amicable. And awesome place with amazing views. Bring your swimsuit for a duo in one of the pools. Expert tip hire a local driver and get here early before all the buses arrive.

Dave P — Google review

Came here via private driver from Oaxaca on Friday morning in early July 2023. If you want to have your mind blown, definitely check this place out. It's under 2 hours away from Oaxaca and MX$2,500 (including tip) for the driver for the seven hours from pick up to drop off. The driver also took us to a rug making factory - that's why the trip took so long. We spent two hours at Hierve El Agua.We did the tour with the tour guide there and it was wonderful. They are paid by tip so we gave him MX$250. He showed us the different plants to avoid and which rocks were slippery. The tour guide only spoke Spanish though. He took us to see the petrified waterfall down below the pools. He was super worth it because not only did he give us the history of Hierve El Agua, but he also took incredible pictures for us. He even got on his belly to get some of the shots!We also took the toll road into Hierve El Agua which was MX$96 each way and cut the drive time by 25 minutes. Once in the small town there were check points that required a fee - one that was MX$20/person and another that was MX$50/person including the driver. Super worth it. There's only two petrified waterfalls in the world - this one and the one in Turkey.

Osula L — Google review

Gorgeous location. A must see when visiting Oaxaca! One of 2 places in the world like this. The other is in Turkey. Get a guide so that they give you more information about this place. But beware, our guide had us doing vertical hikes up the mountain. We’ll with it.

Arcy H — Google review

A lot of stairs to walk up so keep it in mind if you have any health issues. Water super cold and refreshing. Be careful, the bottom of the pools are slippery. You can buy food and drinks in the entrance. They have bathrooms and changing rooms for an extra fee

Xime A — Google review

Nice chill spot to hang around when it's hot, with a beautiful view. If you're up for some walking/hiking, then there's a path around it which isn't that hard to follow and takes about 1 hour max to complete.Water in the pool didn't look too hygienic though, but you should be fine if you don't drink it.

Simon C — Google review

Great place.It's unique as it's the one of two places in the world with calcified waterfalls (great other one is in pamukale in Turkey).The road to reach it is an easy dirt road that goes up and down the mountain with some traffic.The payment is very small for something like that!The view and the cold water are exceptional!Highly recommended for all !It's worth the trouble!

Jim P — Google review

Beautiful place with waterfalls "frozen" in lime.These are still fed from small springs (water eyes).The place is developed for tourism, which means on the one hand there are well-maintained paths and toilets as well as small shops for food and drinks, but also some local guides and you pay for road use, parking / entrance, although relatively little - road with the car 20 pesos ( 1 euro) and parking / entrance 50 pesos ( 2.50 euros) - so reasonable prices.Getting there by car is still a bit of an adventure on partly unpaved roads - but I've driven on wilder roads on Crete.The view is very nice and there is the possibility to go into the water - but you should not expect clear pool water.There is a path with steps leading to the second larger waterfall and down to its foot - this is a somewhat longer and steeper path.All in all, a beautiful place worth seeing.

Yo L — Google review

Interesting place, one of the major tourist attractions near Oaxaca. Petrified waterfalls are indeed an amazing view.If you go by car expect to pay 20 mxn per person at the entrance of the village and another 50 at the entrance to the waterfall area.Then walk down the path along the food stalls and in 5 minutes you will reach the pools located at the terrace of the waterfall. Some people finish their journey there having some bath and Instagram photos looking like an infinity view at the edge of the pool. More endurable walk down to the foot of the waterfall enjoying great views on the way there, then they go around from the other side to the entrance. The path is quite challenging, especially when it's hot so take a lot of water to drink on the way. It takes approximately 1.5 hours to walk around, and at the end you can chill in the pools. There are no pools at the footage of waterfalls as someone mentioned.At the entrance there are a lot of food stalls with basic mexican tapas, fruits and beverages. Parking is free of charge.You can get there by buying a guided tour in Oaxaca but then expect to be hurried. If you want to take your time organise your own transportation.

Szymon L — Google review

If you're looking for another great spot to visit in Oaxaca, you should definitely check out Hierve el Agua. I recommend exploring it at your own pace instead of doing a tour, as you may feel rushed to see everything in just a few hours. It's truly an amazing place to see, and I hope you enjoy your visit!

SIRLUNA ( — Google review

I visited this place like 20 years ago and it has changed a lot, it seems more touristy, but the petrified waterfall, the pools between the mountains is something that you do not see in many places, I believe the other petrified waterfall is in Turkey. So if you are in Oaxaca you must visit it and hike instead of swim, or if you have time to do both, I paid a tour because I didn't want to drive the only bad thing is they give you 2 hours only. If you choose to swim, bring your swimsuit under your clothes because you have to walk to arrive at the pools, the place has changed rooms, but we used them to change the wet clothes to dry clothes! And bring a towel the win is cold! Be aware the road is very narrow and rocky, wanding with plenty of cliffs road!

Ariane G — Google review

We went during the dry season, and still, the place was amazing!! The petrified waterfalls and natural pools look stunning. We went early in the morning and avoided the crowds for a couple of hours, but it got really crowded after a while. Be ready to walk, swim, and enjoy the unbelievable views of the mountains, rock formations, and natural pools.

Alfonso J — Google review

Great place but better to be there early because when we were it was nowhere to sit down. The water looks dirty but it is refreshing. Beautiful view ! If you are driving, good luck :)

Ola B — Google review

This place is one of a kind. Go early so you can take the best pictures with not a lot of tourists. There is a hike of medium intensity but enjoyable. The scenery is the best!

Alejandra C — Google review

Amazing place to visit!!! Beautiful natural cool pools to swim in so bring your bathing suit.The natural cathedral is worth seeing! Stunning on first sight. Keep in mind: It is a Hike down stone stairs around and hike back up the circular trail. Bring water and Solid walking shoes! Also get there early in the day.If you are into mother nature’s natural wonders, this is the place to go!

Cheryl T — Google review

My kids loved it. I took a tour that gave us the chance to stay in Hierve el Aqua for 2 hrs. Which I think is enough if you do not take the tour to the bottom of the waterfall. We stayed in the water and had a great time. I took a panoramic image to give you a layout of the place.

Roly R — Google review

Stunning area. I recommend taking a walk (around an hour - hour and a half) with a local guide. It's free, just tips. You will see stunning views of the waterfalls and get away from the swimming crowds.

Amy S — Google review

this place is absolutely stunning and delivers on the beauty promised on pictures most of us saw online. the water is not warm, but the scorching heat of the day will make it super pleasant to swim in. the views of the Oaxacan Sierra are breathtaking, plenty of view points and hiking trails to observe all of its beauty.i recommend showing up early, if you want less crowds and better photos. the cost is $50 pesos to enter, i took a collective and was charged an additional $20 pesos to some locals to get into the road to get here. so should have booked a tour instead.highly recommend getting a tour to get to this spot, it’s much cheaper than a private taxi, or busing/using collectivos. I wish we did, we waisted so much time to make it to this location. You can find tours in Centro, for $250-$400 pesos there and back.

Krn J — Google review

Can't recommend this place enough. Honestly, the scenery is just gorgeous and breathtaking. Very windy so be prepared! Unbeatable views that will remind you how wonderful Mexico is. Try to get there early, as buses start arriving around 10ish... You can get drinks, food and guided tours as well.

Great E — Google review

A beautiful place, which needs better preservation.We went to Hierve el Agua as part of an organised day trip from Oaxaca city. My impression of it from spending just over 2 hours there is that it’s a place of great natural beauty and worth visiting, but it hasn’t adapted to the demands of the current levels of tourism in Oaxaca.We started with a 45 minute hike around the site to get all the best views from all the angles. It was poorly signposted but we had spoken to a local to make sure we knew the way. The route was a beautiful walk with some stunning views and unique photo opportunities along the way - bring plenty of water because it is HOT and humid but absolutely worth the time investment!The hike ended at the bathing pools at the top of the petrified waterfall, which have formed over hundreds of thousands of years from mineral-rich spring water flowing down the mountain. This is the main attraction, and only two such petrified waterfalls exist globally.In this context it was quite painful to see the lack of protection that this natural wonder has.There were plastic items and cigarette butts floating in the water of the bathing pools, a layer of sunscreen on the water’s surface, and visible signs of erosion on the unique rock formations from the human footfall. from what I’ve read tourist numbers have doubled in the last year alone, we went on a weekday in the off season.There also wasn’t anyone managing the area, cleaning up or advising tourists where to go or what to do. I went for a quick swim because I could - but it wasn’t a 100% pleasant experience. (As an aside, there is also no real safety infrastructure; during our visit a woman broke her ankle slipping on a rock at the pools, and there wasn’t any medical help immediately available. Take care!)The site is worth visiting for its uniqueness and beauty. But in my opinion, it needs to be managed more carefully. Bathing should be banned here to preserve the location’s natural features, so that future visitors can continue to enjoy it.

Krzysztof K — Google review

Very cool place! So glad I visited. You can see the rock waterfall rather quickly and move on if you wish or you can spend hours hiking the trails and taking in the incredible landscape. I hiked for a few hours and loved it. It’s not easy, though. Some serious incline and many many steps/stairs.

Geordie M — Google review

Beautiful petrified water cascades. You can hire a local guide for 50 pesos who’ll show you where to go for good photos but note it’s around 300 steps downhill and the steps are big so the walk back up is a bit unpleasant. Good to have a dip in the pools after! Entry fee is 50 pesos

Caitlin W — Google review

Fantastic place less than 90 minutes from Oaxaca city. The water pools, the falls, the natural beauty, the terraced farming in the distance is all so good to experience!There are many food and drink stalls at the beginning of the way down and have good options for drinks, fruits, snacks and lunch.There are clean bathrooms at the top (have to pay MXN$ 5 for use.Don’t forget to get your bathing suits as the water is cool and very inviting.

Rhishi P — Google review

Beautiful breathtaking views of the Oaxaca sierra madre great canyon. This place is magical, the fresh air, the people and the views are just phenomenal.

J P — Google review

It can be crowded but it's truly amazing. The views of the countryside are amazing this high up. If you want to go swimming in the pools know there doesn't seem to be any lockers, so plan accordingly. We put our stuff in a backpack and just set it by the pools.

Mark S — Google review

Incredible place. All I can say is I should have visited it years ago. Also, if you really want to experience an unforgetable trip. Take the dirt road from Mitla instead of the main paved road, unless you have fear of hights. Also, make sure you do the full hike all the way down the dried waterfall. Bring water, and good shoes. Good workout but well worth it!

Jan B — Google review

What an amazing place. Truly awe-inspiring. The calcified falls have to be considered one of the world's wonders. It is absolutely essential to get a certified tour guide to explain the history of the falls, the people who lived there, and the context of the issues facing the region. It was sad to hear that the main spring was about a meter high in flow over 50 years ago, and now the flow is down to a couple of inches at best. Putting your feet in the water or better still swimming in it is an experience that should not be missed.

Karim P — Google review

Very beautiful! There is an area that people swim at since it's a natural spring/pond and you have a beautiful view also.I couldn't enjoy it as I don't know how to swim even if the water wasn't as deep, my height just doesn't help. It was actually full of visitors! So i couldn't take a nice picture of the clear water one. The other natural pond is swimmable for a bit but it's heavy on minerals so with care go in for your eyes etc. Sorry for the picture this was the only one I could get from the mineral pond, with hardly any people on it.

Susanoline — Google review

This may be my favorite thing we have done in the entirety of Mexico. It’s difficult to describe but truly impressive. The highway is good from Oaxaca most of the way. Once going up the mountain the views are spectacular, the site itself has all the food and drinks you could ever want. I Strongly advise you to take the guided tour. The views are amazing. Bring a hat for the sun. The “falls” themselves are very beautiful and the natural spring pools are just too cool. We spent the entire day there and I look forward to going back!

Danny D — Google review

It takes about 2 hours and 15 mins to get there from oaxaca cityFirst need to catch a collective or a taxi to go to a little Pueblo called Mitla and from there another collective to get up to Hierve El aqua.In Mitla we had to wait about half hour because they wanted to fill the truck before he could leaveWhen arriving after a long and curvy mountain road ,there are a bunch of family owned restaurants and bars where you can eat , drink and refresh.Hierve El aqua is about 10 mins walk from there,Even when I only walked in the pool,there were a lot of people actually swimming and sunbathing.We spent about 2-3 hours and headed back.Make sure to bring sunscreen because it's very hot and sunny.

Denis K — Google review

We rented a car. Easy to get there. Pay a toll, local toll, and park entrance. We got there when it opened and had the place to ourselves with some locals. Don’t forget to hike to the bottom and see the base of the waterfall. By 9 am the sun is unforgiving.

Neelab H — Google review

Love place, definitely worth visiting. Entry is 50pesos with a car. The road here, even though it's saying it's "libre" you pay a kind of toll of 15pesos per Passanger. Keep in mind to bring a swimsuit since there a some pools. They ain't warm but vert good to cool off after the walk. Come enjoy this fantastic place in Nature.

My N — Google review

I say you should still visit this place even thought a lot of people say it’s an “overhyped” place. The Valley view, the waterfall and pools are very cool. Again, we went there with very knowledgeable guide and learnt a lot during our hike. Note that majority of tours there guides in Spanish cause none of tour guides (outside of the local indigenous community people) are allowed to guide people. I would recommend going there around sunset time, it’s gorgeous there!

DemanDeSoleil — Google review

Instagram has ruined this place somewhat. Hard to enjoy the beautiful scenery when you’re surrounding by people doing over the top poses for photos. That being said it is a beautiful part of the world and a must see place if you’re in Oaxaca.

Stephen C — Google review

Did not really meet our expectations. It is a nice sight, but takes very long to get there from Oaxaca. We first took the public bus to Mitla and then the Collectivo (there's no real need to book for a tour) to the site (easy to find). Duration at least 1h30 min (one way), price at least 315 MXN per person (everything included). The site was too commercialized, there was too much concrete (fences etc). Indeed, you can swin in the natural pools (not very warm), which many people did, but we didn't find the idea of it too enticing. We roughly spent 30 min at the site. Especially if you have little time in Oaxaca, there are cooler thing to do

Marius K — Google review

You did not travel to Oaxaca if you didn’t stop by to visit the beautiful scenery of Hierve el Agua.There’s various ways to arrive. I chose the bus and taxi route in order to not feel rushed.I would highly recommend getting a guide to help with the hike since it’s very easy to get lost. Abraham was very informative and kind where we learned about the wildlife, geology, and history of this beautiful land.Entrance is 50 pesos and the hiking guides are donation based. However, very much worth it and they have guides who are bilingual.

Berenice A — Google review

4.6

(19853)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (97)

4.5

(2868)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (98)

70477 Oaxaca de Juárez, Oax., Mexico

+52 951 502 1200

15

Acuario de Veracruz

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Aquarium

Nature & Parks

Acuario de Veracruz is a vast and impressive aquarium situated in Veracruz, which boasts breathtaking habitats for various marine creatures such as sharks, penguins, and jellyfish. The aquarium features an extraordinary tank that houses 2,000 species of indigenous marine life from Latin America. Unfortunately, the dolphin show is currently unavailable due to the pandemic. Visitors can purchase souvenirs at the gift shop; however, it's quite expensive compared to street vendors selling similar merchandise at more affordable prices.

Excellent experience with my children. We enjoyed it very much

Edgar A — Google review

Went in to get out of the heat. It was bigger than what we expected. They have a lot of interesting fish and aquatic animals. There are doing some construction so some exhibits were closed.Missing description of fish but we just used Google to look up names of fish.Exciting the aquarium is a food court.

Marisol B — Google review

Pretty place. I think it needs maintenance tho. It would definitely be better if they let you go back and observe at your own pace

Lilly G — Google review

Some great features and exhibits, some animals looked a little rough and cramped. Some needing slighlty different environments.

J N — Google review

A nice experience, I'm glad there were no dancing dolphins when we visited. The fish, sharks and jellyfish section is great and very impressive. I felt quite sad for the penguins, otter, turtles and manatees as there areas were quite small. We spent a couple of hours walking round.

Chilli_Smoke — Google review

It's a nice trip overall, not that long but with a lot of species to see. Ranging from birds, turtles, reef fish, open water fish, sharks, rays, corals, penguins, manatees, jellyfish, etc. If you have questions, staff is happy to answer them they are very knowledgeable. When I visited, the dolphin section was under maintenance, just bear that in mind. Also, the facilities are wheelchair friendly!

Frederick S — Google review

Nice aquarium for the most part. Loved the penguin stand and display. No dolphin show available now most likely due to pandemic. The souvenir shop is very expensive, so won’t bother buying anything there. You can find same merchandise on the street for half the price. Overall, a good place to visit while visiting Veracruz .

Ariel C — Google review

I was there 54 years ago when I was a kid, and for my surprise, the place was improved 1000 % better (7/16/2024. All displays were more than beautiful. I compared with the one in Corpus Christi Texas USA, and Veracruz is with no doubt way better.

Eduardo L — Google review

Terrible place, the animals look sad and many of them look sick. We were present when a fish jumped out of the tank and died. There are no labels explaining what kind of fish are in the tanks, so not really didactic for children. They are remodeling and making a lot of noise so the fish are stressed. This place should be closed.

Gabriela M — Google review

Its a bit expensive but its worth it if you want to see big sharks! I liked the section with the free birds (tucan and parrots) but in general its a bit small. Recomended for families with children! There are various places where you can take a professional photoshot and if you want you can buy your photos at the exit.

Champis M — Google review

What we managed to see was rather cool, but It was too crowded, it's definitely not made to handle the crowd that came for the Easter break. Also, we were unlucky and it was under reparations, so no dolphins, octopuses or medusas for us 😢.

Rafael F — Google review

Beautiful Aquarium! We had a great time at the place, it was very budget friendly, costumer service was good, and had a great variety of sea animals! Also had a few land animals as well, at the entrance! Very family friendly environment. The place does not come with it's own parking area, which will require you to park in the streets near it. Depending on how busy it may be, will determine how far you may have to park, and walk. But it's worth it! I definitely reccomend the place! They do take credit/debit cards here as well! I will say, do use the bathroom before entering because it's a bit of a walk to go, once you're inside.

Michael G — Google review

Water is literally perfect temperature to swim.

Mark J — Google review

It's an interesting experience because you meet some strange, curious and beautiful animalsSome of them are enormous!I recommend visiting it, It's an opportunity to know a part of Mexico's biodiversity.

Mariana G — Google review

It’s unfortunately really not worth the money nor the time. Extremely disappointed about the experience and concerned about the care given to the fishes.The whole tour took us in total only 30 minutes — to show you how small it was with poor/inexistant descriptions!The aquarium was packed with people and there is no regulation of the flow of people at the entrance. As a result, it resonated a lot in the building and throughout the visit, making it stressful and extremely noisy.All the plaques and explanations look really old and are poor. Very little ventilation and it felt very hot and suffocating.On top of that, tanks look old, small and not well-maintained as it should to offer fishes a reasonable place to live and swim outside their natural elements.Not recommended at all!PS: apparently the place lost funding from before. It definitely lacks investments to make it a great experience for the fishes and the people.

Jonathan V — Google review

It was smaller than expected. Very clean. Reasonably priced. Good for something to do for a little while. No shows. if your looking for a large showing of sea stuff don't go. U will be disappointed

Susan I — Google review

4.5

(63575)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (105)

4.5

(2050)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (106)

Blvd. Manuel Ávila Camacho S/n, Ricardo Flores Magón, 91900 Veracruz, Ver., Mexico

+52 229 931 1020

I'll never travel to McKinney without this trip planner again

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16

Sea Turtle, Inc.

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Animal protection organization

Nature & Parks

Sea Turtle, Inc. is a non-profit organization established in 1977 with the mission of safeguarding, restoring and conserving marine turtles of all kinds. Situated on South Padre Island, Texas, it functions as a hospital for injured animals and operates educational programs to raise awareness among the public about these remarkable creatures. The center is renowned for rehabilitating Kemp's ridley turtle populations which are critically endangered. Sea Turtle, Inc.

I love this place. Beautiful sea turtles deserve to be saved. They have that right to live like we do. The museum is awesome, and the gift shop is great too. They also have Alligators. If they want to come out , I didn't see them this time . I still wonder why they even have Alligators. I never remember the island having alligators at all. Gators are super dangerous..😱Remember to come by and support anyway you can to keep helping and saving Sea turtles.. Happy Health to All....

Brown B — Google review

We loved seeing all the turtles here! It was nice hearing more about sea turtles and all that the staff does to help rehabilitate them. I really liked being able to read about each “resident’s” story.

Penelope M — Google review

What an amazing place to check out, learn and donate! We had zero expectations going in and were enamored by the knowledge staff, the mission and the resident stories. They offer donation packages and are working to build the worlds largest, indoor sea turtle hospital that is due to be open early 2024. Sea Turtle Inc is a MUST when visiting SPI!

Elizabeth P — Google review

This incredible rescue and rehabilitation center is dedicated to the conservation of sea turtles, and visiting it is both an educational and heartwarming experience.The staff and volunteers are exceptionally knowledgeable and passionate, sharing their stories about the turtles in their care. The facility is well-maintained, with informative exhibits that detail the life cycle and challenges faced by sea turtles. The interactive displays and observation areas allow visitors to see the turtles up close, making it a truly engaging experience for all ages.The gift shop was also full of stuff like stickers, mugs, shirts and more.A visit to Sea Turtle, Inc is a must for anyone visiting South Padre Island. It’s an enriching experience that highlights the importance of wildlife conservation and leaves you with a deep appreciation for these majestic creatures. Highly recommended!

Matt P — Google review

This place was awesome! There is a ton of information about how to be involved in rescuing and rehabbing sea turtles and protecting and restoring our oceans. Overall, it's a great place to take the whole family to see and learn all about sea turtles and other ocean critters. We will definitely visit again.

Robert B — Google review

This center is for the rehabilitation of hurt sea turtles. The whole family enjoyed this place. They were closing early due to the weather so we were not able to participate in the Turtle Talks. The facility explains about each turtle in rehabilitation and how they have progressed during their care at the facility. The staff is very knowledgeable and caring. They have a wonderful gift shop and the part, if not all of the proceeds from your purchase goes back to the facility.This is a great trip for the family and to let kids see all sizes of turtles.

H. F — Google review

This is a rescue place for sea turtles and their facility is very welcoming and not to mention a benefit for these wonderful sea creatures. They have an indoor museum and outdoor patio where you can view the rescued turtles. The outdoors is shaded and very well ventilated.

Damaris A — Google review

This is a wonderful organization that rescues and rehabilitates injured and/or sick sea turtles. I visit here every time I come to SPI. The turtles are very well cared for. They have permanent residents and turtles that are undergoing care that will be released back into the ocean. There are educational displays and information on all the turtles. This is a must see place to visit.

Carina J — Google review

I took my granddaughters and we all 3 had a good time. We went for their informational talk in the amphitheater and that was informative and very interesting. The kids even enjoyed it. Then we saw all the sea turtles. I will return. They do so much great work here!

Kelly M — Google review

This was absolutely one of my favorite places. I will absolutely go again each time I visit. Lots of information about the local sea turtles and what they do. A must stop if visiting SPI. Great volunteers! And the permanent residents are beautiful!

Michelle B — Google review

Awesome educational place. This place is a hospital, educational center, and a shop. Procedes go back to the sea turtles! The presentation they had focused on their mission and how to take care of plastic properly. It is very devastating how many turtles die!During our visit we saw so many turtles that were rescued. We saw their hospital too! This is a great place to visit.

Rosalba M — Google review

What a nice place to visit. Staying on South Padre Island you hear so much about "save the turtles" but to actually see them up close was so cool. What Sea Turtle Inc is doing for these beautiful animals is amazing. Definitely stop by to see what they are all about. If you can, make a donation to keep their great work going.

Faith L — Google review

We had a fabulous time here! There are lots or adorable turtles to see at different ages, and each turtle has an equally heartwarming and unique story. The employees/volunteers are very knowledgeable and were happy to share turtle information with us. We would definitely come back and check out this place again! I wish we had asked her name, but there was a woman who talked to us and had tons of info about Sea Turtle Inc. We were there on Saturday June 4, around 2pm. She was so great we loved talking to her! Our entire group of 7 highly recommends everyone check our Sea Turtle Inc and donate generously as well!

Emily P — Google review

I absolutely love what has been done with this center! I remember when it was just a canopy with tubs of rehabilitated turtles accepting donations in a box off the side of the road.This center truly serves its purpose of teaching and bringing attention to their cause. I would recommend a visit for any nature lover!

Lisa V — Google review

A very fun and nice experience. The staff was friendly kind and helpful. They did great with my children and were even social with my husband and myself. We went on a rainy day and were a little worried about the partially indoors part, but it is designed perfectly and we did not get wet at all. There are a few places that lacked complete cover like by the restrooms but even there you are primarily covered

Amber W — Google review

I absolutely loved my experience here. The staff was so knowledgeable and informative. The work they do is amazing and I admire them all! You’ll definitely learn a lot and enjoy your time! Also if you visit during the summer you could possibly get to see baby sea turtles make their way to the sea, as they do public releases here!

Allie H — Google review

Good to learn about Sea Turtles.I enjoyed the various presentations. Can't wait until the new facility is finished. I recommend for any age.

Travelsalot1988 — Google review

Had a great time at sea turtle inc it’s one our favorite spots to visit when we enjoy padre island. Their conservation and rehabilitation work is amazing on the beautiful sea turtles I love to see them grow over the years and happy to see them grow into the largest in the world.

Christopher S — Google review

Amazing place that is doing great work to help injured and sick Sea turtles. One of the most informative places we have stopped at on our southern vacation.

Ken P — Google review

The most incredible place on South Padre Island! And that's saying a lot, because the island is amazing!This organization is changing the world for sea turtles and marine life conservation. Literally. The information posted in the facility and on the website taught me so much I would not have known otherwise - and we got to get up close with sea turtles!Every single staff member is courteous and great at what they do. Can't recommend Sea Turtle Inc enough!

Adelle T — Google review

I love coming here every year!! I get to watch them improve their building and expand over the years on how to better our ocean, turtles, and other water animals. My photos are a mix of last year's visit and this year's visits. I couldn't post my 2022's visit.

Courtney Z — Google review

Doesn't take long to go through and definitely a fun way to spend some time on the island away from the Beach. The turtles are amazing and the workers are so delightful. It's $10 to go through which is inexpensive compared to other things you could do.

Danielle R — Google review

A very cute place to visit. It very comforting knowing there are people out there that still care. I think its an awesome job they are doing. The girls in the temporary hospital were very knowledgeable. Loved the gift shop!

Telisa R — Google review

I’ve been here three times and each time I’ve had the pleasure of learning something new. Love the energy of the team working here. You can tell they care about the mission and vision of this facility. I’m definitely excited to see the completion of their new construction project. Great afternoon activity for the family, especially those with younger children.

Y H — Google review

Informative and adorable visit if you want to see some sea turtles up close and learn more about conservation efforts! Great for kids and adults alike. Really appreciated the talks that give info on the turtle population of padre and how to protect them. Very inspiring work

Katie N — Google review

Beautiful place to visit. You learn a lot about sea turtles.There are some tanks for the turtles that live there and a hospital, where they take care of them and bring them back to the ocean.We were so glad to know they are expanding!Definitely recommended!

Maria R — Google review

I am so thrilled with this place and it's mission, I got to adopt a beautiful patient with tumors! The educational aspect is really engaging and I would recommend this spot to turtle lovers/ animal lovers and anyone who wants to support a great cause. Save the turtles!!!

Cece R — Google review

A must “sea” if you’re on South Padre Island! The experience was so great, we learned so much about the sea turtles. I was most impressed by the staff though. Every person we ran into engaged us in conversation. They were all so passionate and knowledgeable. It was heartening to see so many people so passionate about such a good cause. We “adopted” Poppy the turtle and we’re ecstatic about that. Go here, support an amazing cause and get to see some beautiful sea turtles up close!

Timothy O — Google review

This was an awesome experience. We were able to learn all about sea turtles and how this facility nurtures them back to health and releases them back into the ocean. They have a dedicated team who enjoys what they do, and their passion is very well noted.

Lorenzo C — Google review

The volunteer guide in the tent hospital was super informative and engaging. You could tell she was passionate about educating the public re turtle rescue, illness and types of treatment. The other staff were friendly and prepared to answer questions.The entry fee was a bit high, but worth it in the end. Military discount is offered which was kind of them.Great cold weather activity when visiting.

Parker K — Google review

We visit every year and this year was especially great - the staff were all incredibly engaging with my kids and shared lots of information with them that enhanced our visit. Can’t wait to return once the new hospital is set up!

Stefanie A — Google review

Sea Turtle, Inc. is an activity that you should plan if you want to learn more about Sea Turtle.Admission fee is about $10/adult.The employees and volunteers are VERY knowledgeable, helpful and welcoming!There are several exhibits to view and a presentation every hour to educate people more about how to save the Sea Turtles!Gift shop available with beautiful T-shirt, toys, and souvenirs.♿️✅: Accessible restrooms, and place!A/C inside the building, except in the presentation area and the temporary hospital area.Sea Turtle, Inc. is also building a new hospital that will open hopefully in December 2024. 👏🏼🐢

ELODIE T — Google review

4.7

(5595)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (119)

4.5

(3130)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (120)

6617 Padre Blvd, South Padre Island, TX 78597, USA

(956) 761-4511

17

Padre Island National Seashore

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National reserve

Outdoor Activities

Padre Island National Seashore is a stunning, pristine stretch of barrier island that lies between the Gulf of Mexico and Laguna Madre in Texas. It is home to a large variety of wildlife, including rare raptors, and is a popular spot for camping and fishing.

The North Beach had well packed sand and was very easy to drive on. There are plenty of camping spots available along the beach in January. #vanlife friendly. Free. Watch out for the coyotes that roam the beach at night and make sure you do not leave your pets outside unattended.

R. F — Google review

Nice quiet location. Clean beach. The gift shop is small but there was a nice selection of postcards and magnets. The people working in the shop were extremely friendly and had helpful information for us. The seagulls on the beach appeared to be more cautious around people than at other local locations. The young man in the booth at the entrance was always very personable! Nice group of employees overall.

Frank R — Google review

What a good time here! Prior military gets free admission! You don’t have to have four-wheel-drive for the first part of the park. It has a place to park where you can go and pedestrian the Beach. Keep on going and you’ll find an access road to the beach were four-wheel-drive. Vehicles with high clearance are recommended. It really depends on the time of the year. Sometimes you’ll go down there and it’s super loose sand and I would say yeah you better have a four-wheel-drive but other times of the year it’s hard packed and you could take a Toyota Tercel down that beach. The beach goes for about 60 miles very private very remote and relaxing.

Tristan — Google review

Take this review with a grain of salt because I worked on the beach, and spent almost every day of the past 5 months on the beach. What I have experienced is probably not representative of what it will be like visiting for a long weekend, but I have seen just about everything on the beach. The beach is 60 miles long and is mostly the same along all those miles, so unless you are driving all the way down to brag about it or get to a fishing spot I’d say it’s not worth it. A couple miles down and you’ll likely see the same stuff as 60 miles down. A lot of sand and not much else. I got a lot of questions about big and little shell beach- both of which didn’t exist while I was there. Patches of shells moved up and down the beach with a higher abundance of larger shells around 50 miles down, but in my opinion you can find nice shells just about anywhere. The sand and salty air will destroy everything you bring to the beach, so be sure to think about what you are bringing along and clean it off right when you leave! Beach driving conditions vary greatly even from the morning to the afternoon on the same day. Some days any car could make all 60 miles and other days even heavy duty off-roading cars can struggle right away. Be prepared to not have a perfect beach when you come. Tides can make the beach hard to enjoy, lots of tar and trash wash up, so just don’t come with expectations of a pristine perfect beach and you’ll be fine. It definitely can be beautiful though, and there are lots of fun birds (and other animals like coyote and turtles) to watch! Remember to let the professionals deal with the turtles if you see some!

Harris K — Google review

Beautiful and isolated just what I like! We loved this trip and plan to camp here at some point. The water was very clear and looked blue in the distance which is something I'm not used to here in Texas lol. There weren't many whole shells that we found but we were only here for a day trip. A lot of debris washed up from storms and trash from bad campers. Be sure to bring good shoes and a lot of water!

Michelle — Google review

We love to come here and walk the beach. This time the sand was firm so we drove a few miles south, parked, and then walked 10 miles on the beach. What a great experience. Very quiet for an early November Saturday.Nice picnic area by the windsurfing.Friendly staff in the visitor center.One surprise was solid-identification twice for a Common Black Hawk which is supposedly extremely rare in this area.

Phil R — Google review

Best place to disconnect and isolate, with 50 plus miles of beach to drive on ; 4x4 with clearance only after a few miles. Dark sky at night with no moon if you camp. Don't underestimate how much water you might need in the summer, especially if drinking adult Bev's. Good vibes stay safe

Beto — Google review

One of the most peaceful beaches I've been too, plenty of space to camp.They have the beach patrol that come and drive by ever so often to check on the marine life such as turtles.At night when the moon goes down there's nothing but stars in the sky, it's so clear you can see the ISS pass by and shooting stars.You might have visitors (coyotes) if you stay over night and cook as long as your in a tent, or camper you'll be fine.It's nature so if your not used to it, don't go but it's beautiful, peaceful, quiet and perfect for enjoying it with family and friends.No service, just sand, wind and waves. 🤙🏾

Carla G — Google review

I'm a truck driver dropped my trailer at the visiting center and camped on the beach here had the best time its very clean. We drove 3 or 4 miles down the beach backed up to the sand. You can drive down 40 miles but it's to sandy for a semi a car can probably make it.

Dave S — Google review

A beautiful spot. Busy on a Saturday morning but we were able to find an empty area to sit. Spent the whole day there, beautiful view. Lovely water.Did see lots of Blue Buttons and Man-o-wars, but no one got stung.No one left any trash behind during our visit so that's always nice to see. Everyone around us was friendly and no one was blasting loud music, wonderful experience.The showers in the visitor center were closed but there are some in the parking lot too so no issues$10 to get in unless you have the year pass or free for military.Check their schedule too, sometimes you can come watch a turtle hatchling release

Brittany — Google review

So glad we visited! There is tons of shaded seating areas near the visitors center and a water bottle refill station inside. The beach was great, the sand is soft fine and soft. We saw one Portuguese Man of War that had washed onto shore, so watch out for those! But there is a sting treatment kit in the visitors center if anything happens

Brock H — Google review

Don't let the negative comments discourage you from coming to this place. The ones that are complaining about this place, are the ones not prepared to take on nature and not doing their part and helping clean up the beach and/or cleaning after themselves. The ones crying about the conditions of this beach are softer than the sand itself. Boom roasted.If come prepared you will enjoy your time here. Tread lightly and help preserve the beach.

Sebastian A — Google review

It's beautiful here. You can drive on the beach and find your own perfect spot, away from other people. We made it all the way up to Big Shell, and when we were driving back, we saw a baby fawn drowning in the water. We brought it back to the park rangers after we looked for mom and didn't see signs of her anywhere. Since the rescue (separate from the park) didn't want the fawn, they supposedly drove it back to where we saved it from. That was a bummer to learn, but everyone will justify what they believe, and it will depend mostly on how much you value the life of an animal. So if you find an animal in distress, unless it's a sea turtle, I'm not sure that the park can or will help you.We found some pretty cool shells, and there was some flagged dead stuff along the way. Like a small shark.I love that this is protected land it's not very common to see that anymore. But with that being said, be careful how far you go and what you're driving, because if you get stuck, there is no one around to help you out, and there is no cell phone tower so no reception! Totally worth the drive.

Toula F — Google review

Spectacular, rugged, well worth the visit. Four wheel drive is best for beach driving. Bay side accessible by all vehicles.Great for kite surfing and water sports. Bathrooms and cold water showers available. Safe dry camping in two campgrounds. Can accommodate large rigs and motorhomes in fairly close quarters. Free camping on the beach. Motorhomes not recommended on the beach.Pets must be on a leash to stay safe from coyotes and snakes.

Timothy P — Google review

Had an amazing time camping with my dog on the beach. There is a little bit of rain and wind but everything was fine until the tide started coming in pretty good 😂 You definitely want to make sure you keep an eye on the water. Also there is a Facebook page dedicated to helping people get unstuck- "361 off-road rescue" if you end up getting stuck in the mud somebody will come and rescue you. No charge these people live for the experience. 😁😁😁 So take a chance and get out on the sand, there's nothing like it.

Will M — Google review

It is absolutely beautiful there!We did camping on the beach and it is such an unforgettable memory.It's so nice to fall asleep with the sound of waves and wake up, and the first thing you see is the ocean spreading in front of you.

I. H — Google review

What a BEAUTIFUL (and free) place to camp for a while. Beach is accessable to larger rigs for a few miles. Oh. Not free. A good wash and wax of your vehicle will be needed.

Bob H — Google review

Padre Island National Seashore in Corpus Christi is a pristine coastal haven. With miles of untouched beaches, it's a haven for nature enthusiasts. Experience the tranquility of the dunes, diverse wildlife, and serene waters. For those seeking a true escape into natural beauty, Padre Island National Seashore is a must-visit destination in Corpus Christi.

Mr.S Q — Google review

4.8

(1802)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (126)

4.5

(1908)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (127)

Texas, USA

(361) 949-8068

18

Port Aransas Beach

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40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (130)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (131)

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Beach

Outdoor Activities

Port Aransas Beach is a beautiful, sandy beach located in Corpus Christi. It is a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and other recreational activities with locals and tourists alike. The beach is also convenient as several of the local resorts are on the beach.

Drove all along the beach and also camped here. It was very crowded on the weekend but not too bad during the week. They were getting ready for Sandfest while we were there. This was very cool to see and watch being built.

Michelle — Google review

Beautiful beach. Parking at the pier was free which made it a great beach to visit for watching the sunrise and sunset. Lots of shells. Hesitated to swim as there were lots of jellyfish washed up on the beach, but still fun to walk along.

Diana — Google review

We loved camping on Port Aransas Beach! We saw tons of wildlife from birds, to sea stars, to a full sand dollar. The sand was firm and we felt very safe in our camper overnight. We will definitely be back!Follow our family’s full time travel journey through state and national parks on Instagram: @arndts.arent.staying.put

Arndts P — Google review

Nice large beach areas.The city puts a lot of work into maintaining them.Don't know who has the contract for the port-a-potties,,,, but the city needs to find someone else to manage them, they are nasty and broken down.Night life on the weekends is busy.You will need to get a parking pass to park or camp on the beach. $12 for a year pass.

True T — Google review

Beautiful and impressive art in the sand!! Nice environment, food, and different and beautiful articles to buy. Definitely I will return next year!!!

Sandra R — Google review

A great place to camp for free walk your dog ride your bike You need a $12 annual pass

Neil H — Google review

Incredible beach. The day we came there was a rainbow 🌈 giving us all this incredible photo opportunity. The beach is clean. The people are friendly. I live 2 hours north (Surfside Beach) I still enjoy visiting Port A beaches ⛱️

Mel S — Google review

Great beach with lots of seashells. Parking is near the sand, lifeguards on duty.

Merideth O — Google review

Port A is our “staycation” to go from Rockport! We love driving for the day, or staying in one of the condos, get in the golf cart visiting the shops and restaurants and hanging out at the beach for a while!

Neli S — Google review

I Love Port A Beaches! The soft sand and the beautiful water. The sound of the waves and the breeze along with the sound of the seagulls. I love that you can get a beach pass for $12.00 a year and drive on the beach and park or camp. The beach and the town is full of friendly locals and touristsThere are always varies events going on either on the beach or in town. A total Gem.

Jodie N — Google review

It was my first time here, and I must say I was definitely impressed. It was beautiful, clean, and so laid back. Grant it was during the week, but it was perfect. The water was actually clear, so an extra plus. So peaceful. I will be back soon

LeTTy W — Google review

Beautiful Beach View! Very clean sands to sit and relax watching the waves 🌊

Enedith H — Google review

Very nice beach, dog friendly. Even on a holiday weekend had plenty of room to sit on beach and not feel crowded or in top of each other. We sat under the peer for the shade.

Jerre W — Google review

Parked our RV for two nights. View and the sound are wonderful to wake up to. Was pretty windy but not more than we could handle. Would have stayed for a third day but we were running low on water. We'll definitely be back!!

Travis T — Google review

We had the best weekend in there. In the evenings we just walked around which felt romantic with an additional bonus i.e., sunset 🌇. After that, we just grabbed some drinks and snacks at a nearby gas station and enjoyed the night with some music and dancing at the beach.A trip with a couple is good too but would recommend it with the group or a double date would work as well. It would be great if you guys carry portable chairs to enjoy the sunrise or sunset by sitting there.I noticed many families coming there with kids digging a hole in the sand, putting on some bonfires and having fun with food, drinks and music.People who like fishing will like the place more. I don’t know much about fishing but saw a lot of fishermen there.The down part is the restrooms. They are not clean, they stink. I literally hold my breath till I used it.Best place to visit with kids or in groups or for couples or for fishing.

Monika P — Google review

Very clean beach with chair, umbrella, and cabana rentals available. The beach is easy to navigate with markers on the sand bar. The sand is pretty compacted so it's easy to walk on. That sun 🌞 is fierce so don't forget the sun screen, and don't for get to reapply every 2 hours. Renting an umbrella or cabana for shelter is a wise decision. There is a restaurant right on the beach approximately halfway through that you can access from the beach ⛱️Stay vigilant while driving on the beach as there are lots of golf carts and children. You will need to purchase a permit if this is your first time. Permits are available at all the rental stands for chairs, umbrellas, and cabanas. They are only $12 and they are good for one year.

Zach S — Google review

I recently had a wonderful time at Port Aransas Beach, and I'm delighted to share a positive review. One of the standout features of this beach is its very accessible parking system. With the purchase of a $12 season pass, parking becomes a breeze. It's convenient and ensures that visitors can easily find a spot without any hassle, allowing more time to enjoy the beach.The cleanliness of Port Aransas Beach was impressive. The beach was well-maintained, with clear pathways and clean sand. The efforts taken to keep the beach pristine were evident, making it a pleasure to walk along the shore and relax on the sand.Safety is a top priority at Port Aransas Beach, thanks to the presence of lifeguards. Their watchful eyes and quick response capabilities provide peace of mind for beachgoers. Families and individuals can enjoy the water activities knowing that there are trained professionals available to ensure their safety.Additionally, the availability of clean and well-maintained bathrooms is a significant advantage. It's always reassuring to have access to clean facilities when spending time at the beach. The convenience of nearby restrooms adds to the overall comfort and enjoyment of the beach experience.Overall, Port Aransas Beach offers an exceptional experience with its accessible parking system, clean beaches, presence of lifeguards, and well-maintained bathrooms. Whether you're seeking relaxation or fun in the sun, this beach provides everything you need for a memorable beach outing.

Matthew K — Google review

This beach is very nice and very nice town on mustang I cameDown here from Louisiana for vacation and it was very nice place. The reason why I put 4 stars is because the water in the front by the beach is brown and the back of the gulf is blue and stuff at the town at the supermarket is expensive Ik is a island and a different state with high prices. Also there Golf carts to drive around the city and no you can’t not drive it on a busy highway.

Ethaniel R — Google review

4.7

(833)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (132)

4.5

(2129)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (133)

Port Aransas, TX 78373, USA

19

USS Lexington

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Museum

Military Bases & Facilities

The USS Lexington Museum is a colossal military museum in Corpus Christi Bay that was converted from a retired training vessel. The museum has five self-guided tours around the ship that explore its eleven decks and 1,000 square feet of space. The tour includes the flight deck, focsle, gallery deck, hangar deck, and lower deck.

Pleasant surprise! I have driven by this place many times but I'm glad i finally got to see it! Be prepared to spend a good amount of time here I thought 1.5 hours would be enough to check it all out and it was nowhere near enough. I'd say have at least 3+ hours in mind. It's an amazing place to experience and the tours of each area are well organized and paths planned out! Some stair climbing should be expected. Worth checking out and experiencing a piece of WWII History!

Mike J — Google review

Beautiful museum and great place to learn for both adults and kids. They do have 2 simulator rides which cost $5 each. They are not the best, but great for kids. The 3D movie was good also and that is included with the price of the entry ticket. Overall great place to visit with the family. Great views from the deck. There is a restaurant which has decent food, but had a wait. The gift shop is a great place to visit too.

Kishen P — Google review

Our family is a big fan of WWII history, it's veterans, and artifacts. We spent pretty much all day here with our two boys (13 & 10) and they loved crawling around in the belly of this awesome beast. This is my wife and my second time visiting it with the first time being in the early 2000's. That being said, I'm not sure how much longer it's going to be able to withstand the salt water which seems to be doing a number on it's outer structure. If you are a fan of old WWII era machines then you should definitely add the Lexington as a must see before it's too late.

Chad S — Google review

Excellent historical museum! You are taken back in history the moment you enter! Be ready to walk and climb stairs. See how sailors lived and work in a floating city. How Incredible the work that had to be performed daily. For history buffs, I would recommend giving yourself at least three hours to tour the ship, see videos, and read the displays. The care that was taken to bring this ship back to life is quite amazing as well. I highly recommend the visit. Thank you!

Victor D — Google review

We visited the USS Lexington on our trip to Corpus. This is a fantastic piece of American history. The huge ship is a head to toe museum.There is a LOT of walking and stairs. you will need to be able to climb steep stairs/ladders if you want to go down into the ship.To see the flight deck and airplanes there is an elevator or stairs.Down below deck are four floors of displays and a first hand look at life on deck.There is a small restaurant and a shop; as well as an extra feature of an escape room.There is plenty of (paid) parking and a tram that will take you from the street all the way up the ramp to the entrance.For US history fans, airplane/ship enthusiasts, or looking for a neat way to spend a few hours, this is the place to check out.

Emily T — Google review

This is a great place for families with tweens and teens. NOT youngsters. Lots of exploring the ship through corridors and bulkheads. Lots of stair ladders. They are worth the effort and money especially if you’re into WW2 history. They have the actual Top Gun F-14 and many more historical aircraft. A great value for the money.

Nate B — Google review

The fact that it is a U.S. Navy ship that not only was successful in WW2 and served our country for decades is awesome, but the presentation is outstanding. The aircraft are accessible and have informational boards with great statistics on them. Down below there are displays of Navy equipment and personnel with more information panels. The room with the models was overwhelming with the number of them from planes, boats, submarines, to ships representing the U.S., Germany and Japan. Obviously the curators of the ship care about it and are very knowledgeable. They also serve food on board, so don't worry about spending hours there like I did. I found parking in a lot between the entrance and the aquarium that nobody else seemed to use. Behind the sign for parking you just slip your money in the appropriate slot.

Charles F — Google review

Awesome experience. No tour guides to make you move at a certain pace, which I loved. I was able to walk as slow as I could handle to take it all in. I walked for 4 hours and still feel like I went too fast. There are full sized aircraft, wax figurines doing all sorts of tasks from dental work to serving meals. This thing is MASSIVE. I truly think it'd take 2 or 3 trips to see every nook and cranny. They have tons of memorabilia from previous commanders, other ships, and displays of battles and damage. I literally can't say enough about this, it's purely incredible. They have food and drinks available for reasonable costs (far less than a baseball game or concert), and when you have to hit the head, you use the actual ship bathrooms - which I found added to the experience. When we were here they were repainting one of the planes right on the ship! They had deployed a polyurethane tent around it with clear windows so we could see in too. I don't even remember how much it cost because it didn't matter, it was worth it!

Cody L — Google review

The USS Lexington is a beautiful historical place to visit that has a pivotal place in U.S. history. There is so much history here to read and to tour. Although we didn't tour the ship, we still found time to visit here and snap a few pics outside. I highly recommend this place to visit when you're in the Corpus Christi area.

Santos G — Google review

I went to the Lexington as a kid and remember having a blast. I wanted to pass that fun on to my kids and they did have a blast. It really is like stepping into history. Just about everything is interactive and hands on. My only “complaint” is some times the lower deck tour is a little confusing, but it’s still a good time!

James H — Google review

I recently had the opportunity to visit the USS Lexington, WWII marvel in Corpus Christi, and it was an absolutely incredible experience. As a history enthusiast, I was in awe of the rich historical significance of this place. The ship is a fascinating time capsule from World War II, and I couldn't get enough of exploring its details.I highly recommend spending at least 4 hours here to fully immerse yourself in the history and the stories behind the artifacts. The 3D movie is a must-see, and I was fortunate to catch it during its limited run. It added another layer of depth to the experience.The dedication and preservation efforts put into this place are commendable. It's not just a museum; it's a journey through time. Whether you're a history buff or just looking for an educational and captivating outing, the WWII marvel in Corpus Christi is a must-visit. I can't recommend it enough!

Pradeep M — Google review

Do not underestimate this amazing ship! We went thinking we would only spend about an hour here and stayed for 4!!! We didn’t even get to see the entire ship! Definitely wish I had two days to visit this museum. So much history within its walls! I learned so much from going here! Definitely worth the trip. It’s not even expensive. There is a lot of walking and stairs but again, it’s well worth it! They do have stroller and wheelchair access as well. The gift shop is big with lots of options and the food court sells decent food. There’s a long ramp to the ship but they offer a free rides up and down the ramp. They have a parking lot and it’s only $5 but show up early. The parking lot was full by noon on a Friday! Besides that you have to meter park.

Ashley H — Google review

This is an amazing piece of history. It's absolutely surreal to walk where our soldiers lived and worked to defend our country. There are many exhibits and stations to see and learn all about its history.The ship is kept in beautiful condition, and all the staff we interacted with were friendly and knowledgeable. There's a long ramp up to the ship, but they have a shuttle to drive people up and down if you prefer that. It's really neat to go up and down the ladders to tour the different areas of the ship, but again, they have an elevator option up to the landing deck for those who may have a difficult time with the ladders. The entry price is very reasonable, we paid $18.95 each, and there's no time limit outside of museum hours. They show movies, and for an additional charge, they also offer escape rooms and simulators.I highly recommend visiting the museum while here in Corpus Christi.

Djgirl 2 — Google review

A wonderful experience to spend a few hours for only $20! Did 2 different self guided tours down below the ship and was amazed how mazelike the place is. I'm just so shocked how anyone can navigate such a large ship without signs or directories. The flight deck was the jewel of the visit. Getting to see an airplane up close in addition to having access to a beautiful sea sight is uncanny. The gift shop had some really good finds that won't break the back. After 2 or so hours going up and down stairs my hips and thighs were killing me. Great place to educate and learn while getting your steps in.

Christopher S — Google review

Excellent visit to the museum. The Lexington is a great museum. Despite not having complete & total access to everything (but I totally understand why), it was still a great visit. This has been my third time going, and I can say with full confidence that you learn more and more from each visit. Got there around 11:30 am, and pretty much stayed til 5:00 pm. Brought a friend along with me and had a blast of a time.Would definitely go again to see what I missed from the prior visit!

Charles H — Google review

This far exceeded our expectations! We spent 5 hours there and still didn't get to see everything. An amazing firsthand experience of what life on a carrier is like and all the battles involving them. This is a must do if your in the area! It's family friendly and there is easy parking across the street. We ate at the mess hall also.. food was good and not outrageously priced. We would love to visit again sometime.

Bethanyk — Google review

Excellent family activity on the water. Tour the boat at your own pace and enjoy the history each area has to offer. The ship was well preserved and clean! It’s a fun and interactive way for children and adults to learn a small bit of military/American history. The AC is a nice way to cool off from the heat of the summer. I highly recommend checking it out when visiting Corpus Christi!

Olivia G — Google review

It was a very windy day so being outside on the deck was challenging. Once inside we saw everything! It is a must see for anyone that appreciates what the men and women have done for our country. Every tour on the ship could stand alone by itself for a history lesson. Plan on soaking in the vast information and spending 3 or more hours. We took 6 hours and loved every minute. Thank you to all that served on this magnificent vessel.

Dan B — Google review

This place was very cool. I thought my kids (8,10,16) would be bored but they loved it! There was so much to see and read I could just never take it all in. The staff were all friendly and helpful. I definitely recommend making a stop here if you are visiting Corpus Christi! Fun for the whole family. But beware, it is a LOT of walking and steep stairs.

Sher — Google review

I so wish I had had four days to really explore this amazing aircraft carrier! There are quite a few self-guided tours you can embark on yourself, plus just randomly exploring in lots of areas of the ship. Me and my grandson took one of the long lower deck self-guided tours where you climb down several levels and see the engine room, dining area, bunk area, dentists office and sick bay, and quite a few other things. It was awesome. I'm 69, so climbing up and down the steep stairs was a little dicey, but not super tough. I truly enjoyed it. Then we had a quick lunch at the snack bar onboard in the hangar deck. After that, my grandson and I climbed up to the flight deck to check out all the old planes placed all around the deck. Such great information on signs next to each airplane. Beautiful external preservation. And there was so much more to see, but after more than two hours of walking everywhere in and on the ship, we had to go home and my trip from Kansas was too short to allow another visit to see more of the ship. Hopefully, I'll get to come back some day and explore more of it.What I'm kicking myself over is that I lived in San Antonio for many years and made quite a few trips to Corpus Christi for fun and to see my son when he was in college in Corpus! I always saw the ship in the distance, but never looked into how to get on board... I should have come here 20 years ago...

Dave M — Google review

Great tour! As expected it’s huge, and it has a great history. Start with the 3D movie and go from there. Going up is a lot of very steep steps but worth it. Doing down steep as well. Landing level has cool planes including (my wife’s favorite) the actual plane from Top Gun. Took a few hours to see everything.

Paul A — Google review

Stepping aboard the USS Lexington, "The Blue Ghost," is like stepping back in time to an era of naval grandeur and historic significance. This majestic aircraft carrier, now a floating museum, offers visitors an immersive experience into life at sea during World War II.Exploring the various decks, from the cavernous hangar bay to the bustling flight deck, travelers gain a deeper understanding of the ship's vital role in naval aviation. Interactive exhibits, authentic artifacts, and informative displays offer a fascinating glimpse into the daily routines of sailors and airmen.The Lexington's numerous self-guided tours cater to a wide range of interests, from aviation enthusiasts to history buffs. Whether marveling at the vintage aircraft on display, navigating the labyrinthine passageways, or reliving the ship's wartime exploits through multimedia presentations, every corner of this floating city reveals a captivating story.While some areas might be challenging for those with mobility issues, the overall experience is well worth the visit. The USS Lexington stands as a testament to American ingenuity, naval prowess, and the sacrifices made by those who served aboard this legendary vessel.

Matt S — Google review

I've been a History WWII buff for years, and it was such a thrill to be able to spend the night on the 'Blue Ghost' (as a chaperone to my daughter's high school band). Noel and Chris were awesome, friendly hosts that added tons of fun to our stay. You have to go and listen to Noel's ghost story! We were allowed to roam the ship on self guided tours. The hosts helped police the kids with a little PT punishment. The ship is huge, so be prepared to be exhausted after all the climbing and roaming. If you get to camp on the Lex, the breakfasts and dinners aren't bad. They don't serve sodas, so if you want one, bring your own from one of the vending machines on ship. Otherwise, they have a decent snack bar if you're a day visitor. The gift shop was full of nifty items and gift ideas from dog tags, key chains, and books to USS Lexington t-shirts. For aviation fans, there are several WW2 to more modern aircraft on board on the flight deck and hanger. There is a flight simulator and a flight type ride for $5 and $20, respectively. Overall, it was a really fun experience!

Jeff W — Google review

You will have an amazing time on the USS Lexington. Fun for family's with older kids as the younger ones may not really enjoy all of the walking and going up and own steep stairs and such. Lots of history with the aircraft carrier. This is a self-guided tour that you can do at your own pace. They say it takes 3.5 to 4 hours to complete, but after 4 hours, my son and I still hadn't finished the tour and were getting tired. lots of great artifacts and stories to be seen and told. Cool aircraft up on the flight deck. It can be very windy and sunny up there so take precautions.

Andrew — Google review

My wife and I visited Corpus Christi and explored the USS Lexington, an Essex-class aircraft carrier built during World War II. The ship is a marvel of engineering and history, making it well worth the admission fee. The exhibits provide deep insights into naval history and aviation, perfect for history buffs, aircraft and naval enthusiasts, or anyone looking for a unique and educational outing. The interactive displays and knowledgeable staff make the visit engaging and informative. You can easily spend several hours exploring the various decks and learning about the ship's storied past. Don't miss this extraordinary attraction—it's a fantastic way to immerse yourself in history and have a great time.

Muntakimur R — Google review

This place is awesome! There is tons to see and it is great for families. Though bring your own food and just hide it in a bag. It’s not right to force families to pay for your overpriced, overrated food. $4.75 for a hot dog?!?! Are you out of your mind?!?! I dropped a star because you can’t bring outside food or drinks which essentially forces you to buy there food. My recommendation is bring a drink or sandwich and sneak it in your bag. There are a lot of places you could take a swig of a drink or a bite and no one would notice know the difference. Overall, a good experience and a lot of fun!

Ernie T — Google review

Visiting the USS Lexington was an awe-inspiring experience, immersing me in its rich history and remarkable legacy. Stepping aboard, I felt the weight of its importance and the bravery of those who served during World War II and beyond. The museum's exhibits vividly portray life on the carrier and its pivotal role in naval warfare.Exploring the decks, I marveled at the ingenuity of naval aviation and the dedication of the sailors who manned this floating fortress. Standing on the flight deck, I imagined the thunderous roar of aircraft taking off into the fray.The panoramic views of Corpus Christi Bay from the flight deck were breathtaking, serving as a poignant reminder of the sacrifices made to safeguard our freedoms.The staff's passion for sharing the ship's heritage enhanced the experience, providing valuable insights and anecdotes.I highly recommend a visit to the USS Lexington for anyone interested in military history. It's a captivating journey through time that leaves a lasting impression. Attached are some photos capturing the essence of this historic vessel.

Maleen K — Google review

Amazing part of history. There are a lot of stairs and the staircases are a little steep and narrow. Self guided tours (there are guided tours you can pay extra for, but we didn't do those).The wait to get in was just waiting for the shuttle

Sariah W — Google review

The USS Lexington is a must see if you visit Corpus Christi. I failed to photos of so many more interesting things. The entire ship from the sleeping quarters to the mess hall to sick bay were well represented and fascinating to behold. Be aware that there are a lot of stairs and narrow ladders in certain parts of the ship. Kids and adults will love it. A real step into history.

S S — Google review

This is an awesome museum. We originally planned to be there for just a couple of hours but were there for 4 and could have spent at least a couple more hours. We didn’t realize there was a snack bar there or we probably would have stayed longer. We parked at the beach and had to use an app to pay the parking meter. There is a parking lot close by that you can pay $5 for all day. That would be better. There are a lot of videos through out the ship that tell different historical events. You can watch a 3D movie- it’s cold in the theater so be prepared. Lots of photo opportunities for the kids. Volunteers and workers there all very nice. I think there is a shuttle that will take you up the ramp to the entrance. We were not offered a ride.

Sawimonu J — Google review

Excellent place to visit! Plan for several hours if you want to see everything. It is HUGE! The film that runs every hour on the hour is very good. The Pearl Harbor exhibit has a great short history experience. Lots to explore throughout the ship...a bit of information overload. I bet you could spend days here and still find new things. The lower levels definitely have an odor that seemed to bother some, but it was worth it to see all of the cool things there. Overall an amazing place, with good workers and volunteers to help even more with the experience.

Jen R — Google review

Really cool museum/ship. Lots of history on board.1. You need two hours minimum, and even then you will be rushing.2. It is hot. Real hot. Parts are air conditioned, but a lot of it isn't.3. You will walk a lot and climb a lot of steps. There is an elevator, but the main parts, you better walk and climb.4. If you are over six feet tall, wear a hard hat or just walk bent over all the time. The ship was not made with tall people in mind.

Timothy C — Google review

Great Experience for my family and I ! Steep stairs … not for bad knees but well worth the tour. In and out of the ship has tour arrows , some spots have no A/C ( summer days 100degrees can be super hot. Lots of Walking , Elevators are Available. Family photo was $35, Gift Shop has reasonable prices . Food court was clean and kept up . You cannot take food/beverages inside certain areas .Outside /backside food court was a beautiful spot to sit !Over all pricing was great for the History this Ship holds !

A. F — Google review

My recent visit to the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay in Corpus Christi, Texas, was an experience I will never forget. Stepping aboard this iconic aircraft carrier felt like stepping back in time, immersing myself in the rich history and heroic legacy of the United States Navy.In addition to its rich history, the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay offers stunning panoramic views of Corpus Christi Bay and the surrounding coastline.Overall, my visit to the USS Lexington was nothing short of extraordinary. From its impressive exhibits to its breathtaking views, this historic aircraft carrier offers a captivating glimpse into the past while honoring the brave men and women who served our country with courage and dedication. Whether you're a history buff, a military enthusiast, or simply curious about life aboard a naval vessel, the USS Lexington Museum on the Bay is a must-see destination in Corpus Christi, Texas.

Derrick F — Google review

Very reasonable for what they are doing there. Everyone should take the time to see this and truly learn what it was like for our sailors surviving and dying aboard these amazing WWII vessels.They also do their best for disabled There is a tram to take you up to the ship and the have wheelchairs available. They just can’t go on most of the tours. There is tons of ladders / stairs to climb up and down.

Peggy H — Google review

What a cool experience! Did you know they have the fighter jet on there from the movie top gun! You get to walk the halls of the lower decks and sit in the captains chair how cool is that! I have to say it is 100% worth it to go and it isn’t very expensive either. They do have a cafe there and we did eat at it but it isn’t the best I’ve had to say the least but it helped in a pinch. They have a gift shop too so that’s fun to go get a memory from there.The best part of the whole experience was meeting the volunteers that worked there. If you’re willing to take the time and just ask questions and listen to their stories, this is the last generation that will be able to one on one in person, hear the stories from the people that experienced all of this wonderful history firsthand. Two of the gentlemen were aboard the ship when it was active and what stories they could tell. We met a man named Bill and talk to him for so long, and I believe it was very impactful. Very interesting. I asked him how it felt serving in Vietnam, and if he was scared. His response was it was a job and we were tougher back then and boy was he right.

Cindy H — Google review

An absolute must for history buffs. We were taking a road trip and didn't give as much time as we needed here I would say at the very minimum half a day. But an absolutely incredible piece, be sure to do the lower deck self tour

Maverick R — Google review

USS Lexington is worth watching for people interested to know about war history, aircraft development, how navy crew work. Lots of aircraft models with detailed information are all over the place. There's lift to go to 2nd floor, otherwise steep, narrow staircase to move around. It took almost ~2.5- 3hrs for me to cover the whole thing. Volunteers are extremely helpful in explaining things if you ask them. There's cart at the entrance to take you directly to the ship or if you prefer to walk by the sea! There's a food-court and souvenir shop inside. Also, a closed workshop where they work on new models probably. Overall, wonderful tour.

Seema N — Google review

When I was planning my wedding I never thought to look at the Lady Lex but when plans changed I had a feeling and I was sure right! I have always loved coming aboard but never thought of getting married here! We didn’t reserve the whole ship or have a fancy wedding but it was perfect! The crew was so sweet and even the tourists, for the most part, were respectful and stayed out of pictures! It was clean, affordable, and that breeze on board was perfect!

Kris10Fleming — Google review

Was super cool to visit this while on our trip from Denver to Corpus Christi. The self guided tours are perfect and there is so much to see. Loved the fact you could still see the captains quarters, where the ropes were kept and the different planes that used that carrier in its prime. The gift shop had tons to choose from. Picked up a few coins while we were there. It's absolutely beautiful at night all lit up as well. Got engaged right next to it with its illuminating blue lights in the background!

Lynsey H — Google review

4.8

(14779)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (141)

4.5

(3474)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (142)

2914 N Shoreline Blvd, Corpus Christi, TX 78402, USA

(361) 888-4873

20

Schlitterbahn Waterpark New Braunfels

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Water park

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Park

The Schlitterbahn Waterpark in New Braunfels Texas is a park with a variety of rides and pools. It's owned by a family and has been recognized as one of the best waterparks in the world for the last 15 years.

We had a great time. We bought the Premium meal plan which allows you to eat/snack every 90 minutes and get a drink every 15 minutes. It is well worth the price. Also, we got the Blast Passes so that we could reduce the time spent waiting in lines. Even with passes, you can't see everything in a day. I ended up losing my sunglasses, so if you wear glasses, make sure to wear the glasses string to keep them on your head!!!!!!!!!!!!

Emily F — Google review

Still the hotest coolest time in Texas. Haven't been to the original in probably 10 years. So long that my son barely remembers and asked if we could visit. A lot has changed - digital codes to access the lockers instead of a key on a wristband, Google and Apple Pay instead of a wristband of plastic "splash cash" to buy food and drinks. Yet, much remains the same - free parking, the ability to bring in your own cooler of food and drinks, and more water rides and play areas than you can shake a stick at. I've read recent reviews complaining about rides and unfriendly staff this summer and lamenting the new ownership. This was not our experience. There were a few things that weren't operating, which was annoying in cases. However, our experience with the staff was as friendly as it has always been. It's still a great place to spend cooling off during the hot Summer days.

Edward K — Google review

Schlitterbahn is a "must" for hot Texas summer. There are plenty of things to do and you need at least one day for each park to see and try most of the rides.

Barbara D — Google review

Spent two days at the park. Friday was at the Blast park and Sunday at the original park. It’s been 12 years since we have visited. Glad to come back for a couple of days. Spending the extra $ for the Fast Pass definitely makes a difference. Many places gouge you with $ for parking and $ for food. They don’t charge for parking and they encourage you to bring your own food. They have water activities for the whole family. Thinking about a whole family vacation and staying at the park next summer.

Rodney G — Google review

First time here. Lines were kinda long for rides but moved steady. Drinks were good and cold. The lazy river with the tubes was awesome and only 3 ft deep however the waves are forceful to propel us forward but can take a small child fast from his family so be careful with small children. I'm planning another trip already because I want to definitely go back.

Aishia R — Google review

Beautiful place along the Comal River. Rides for all ages and pools to hang out in if you don’t like lines. It was clean and had plenty of tables. Although many of kids employed around the park seemed clueless, there were lifeguards everywhere and they appeared to be well trained and friendly.

Cynthia F — Google review

So much fun for all ages. I’m pregnant so couldn’t ride too many rides but we still had fun. The Kristal River was awesome. Kids loved the Falls and the kiddie area in the original park.

Rachel S — Google review

We started this trip with an excited experience but turned out with little disappointment.Trust me its not to ruin your holiday mood but to consider these points to make your trip planning better.And these points mainly applicable if you visiting on a weekend/holiday where heavy crowd is expected.Visited on a weekend morning. Arrived around 10am but it was around crowded that time with all parking slots filled up.Now we had to book in premium parkingSecondly no shade for entrance crowd for security clearance, lot of people with kids are standing under hot sun. Wish management does something for crowd management or atleast an shade.Secondly every ride gets super busy/crowded and wait time gets multi folded. As well interacted with multiple people, at max you can do 3/4 rides in a park out of 2 parksIts better you get 2 day pass if plan to visit both the parks.Better suggested to visit on weekday or non crowded days for better enjoyment, a personal suggestion

Deepak — Google review

Schlitterbahn is AMAZING!!!! Their prices and packages are unbelievable… I purchased the $80 or so dollar meal package… which gives you TWO meals a day… every day during the season that you come. Let me tell you, I’ve had brisket plates, pizza, tenders etc. each meal being $15 or so… it pays off within a week of going!!!We also purchased the photo plan which is $45 or so and you get unlimited digital images that they take at the park. I do wish there were more photography employees around the park, but even with that we got well over our money worth during the season. During the week is empty and we love it. Go for an hour or so with my 1 year old and we are set. They have an AMAZING new area for the kids.. slides of all sizes and plenty to get them entertained. Not to mention the season passes go on sale and it’s unbeatable. I’ve grown up here and now taking my daughter is awesome. Oh and you can bring your own cooler with food and drinks!!!!!!!

Jess T — Google review

Loved this place. After hearing about the best barbecue being in Texas....I tried a few places that were no better than new York. This place was amazing though..... delicious mesquite flavored food.....great sides...super friendly staff. I loved your food and would recommend it to anyone.

Teddy B — Google review

It was a lot of fun. However the blast pass needs huge improvements. The wait times are not consistent with actual wait times. It showed 150min wait on the watch, while there was only 45min wait. But other than that, it was a lot of fun.

Fahri Y — Google review

Nice facility. Great rides.Entry fees are a bit outrageous 2 adults. 1x16 yo, 1x15 yo, 1x13 yo, 1x11 yo. $575. Never again!And. Do NOT get your food or refreshments at the Lagoon Grill. Extensive, unwarranted wait.Otherwise. Super Nice water park.

Thomas H — Google review

Note: we are Season ticket holders.This water park is a great experience for me and my family. We have children ages: 18, 16, 13, 6 & 2. There are a lot of shaded areas, lockers, picnic tables, tubes, soda/icee locations, restaurants, etc.As a season ticket holder you can bring in a cooler (27” x 16”) which is great. You can bring in your own personal bottle and you can fill it up with water.I’ve found the staff to be friendly despite being in the hot Texas sun all day.If you want close free parking come early.I look forward to going back!

Sherman O — Google review

An amazing Waterpark with even better customer service. I made an error while purchasing our tickets and the people at the front window worked for along time to help me fix it. They were incredible!This Waterpark is also so fun and unique! I wish I lived closer!Also buy your tickets in advance of at least one day and online. It will save you a lot of money. Buying the day of online was $5 more per ticket than the day before and at the gate was much more.

Sara O — Google review

Make sure you go early in the morning! Otherwise the free parking fills up fast! Or you can pay for parking between $25-$40. Choose to go during the week if possible, if not then be prepared to wait hours in line. It is way too packed, the wait time is about 2 hours per attraction. It’s ridiculous! Also you must take the bus to go to the other water park and the wait time is anywhere between 1-3 hours. Be prepared to wait period. The beers/drinks are way too expensive. We got a turkey leg that was boiled, not smoked and was lacking flavor. They do allow you to bring in a cooler, but it has to be a certain size and they unpack the items in the cooler to ensure you don’t have bottles or alcohol. Doing this causing even longer lines because everyone has a cooler. Make sure to bring snacks, sandwiches and water. It was a fun time overall, but all it takes is one time. Been there, done that and won’t go back. I’d rather just float the river and call it a day!

Andrea O — Google review

I went on a Saturday with my family. Very beautiful, clean and family friendly water park. Water tube rides aka lazy rivers had different themed courses and thrill levels. Water slides were enjoyable. There were long lines but they were fast moving. Every ride we went were worth the wait and money. We were able enjoy it more than once. Definitely recommend. ❤️

Sabari S — Google review

Great place! Had lots of fun riding on the rides. The only thing that sucks is the wait time. Most rides takes about 20-30 mins.

G.G. — Google review

What a great water park with great ticket prices. I recommend getting there when the park opens and heading straight to the East side of the park. There are lots of chairs to claim and then open range to many fun slides for adults and small kids. The lazy river has to be my favorite, especially with the incorporation of the wave generator. My Son and I would stay in that all day! The West side of the park has some fun attractions and a very large pool to relax or play volleyball. All in all this definitely is a must do attraction! And you can bring your own cooler for food and drinks. No alcohol, no glass.

Tim B — Google review

Seems very disorganized. Got there right as they opened but in order to get the blast pass that was paid for online, you have to go to the main entrance and wait in line to receive the wrist bands (for us it took almost 30 minutes of waiting) which seems so counterproductive. The blast pass is like a reservation and you can only make one reservation for a ride at a time. I get that it’s probably meant to not abuse the privilege but we were only able to utilize it on 4 rides the entire day. There needs to be so much more signage around the parks in general, it’s so easy to not know what you’re doing or where you’re going unless you are a seasoned member. Also, asking for directions or how to get somewhere you could get 4 different answers from 4 different employees. Just disorganized. Also, we brought several beach towels, there’s really no need if it’s hot outside. We dried off before we even made it to the shuttle because it was so hot. Also, water shoes/socks are a must! If you have older kids make sure you’re starting at the right park, we started at the wrong park which seemed to be geared more toward younger kids.

J G — Google review

We had a lot of fun on our visit. The fast pass is 100% worth it if you’re only there one day, we walked straight onto every ride while others were waiting for an hour+. We rode everything we wanted to in both parks in just a few hours. Minus one star because quite a few things were closed, and on the west side of the park things need to be kept up better. It was nice to be able to bring a cooler in.

Faith L — Google review

Had a blast lines got pretty long but we just found other stuff to do until they weren't so bad went on a Friday definitely won't do that again but had a great time well definitely be back but maybe a Wednesday next time nice that you can bring your own food and coolers in they do have a size limit on the coolers

Jenny W — Google review

Thank you Schlitterbahn for the best summer! Buying a season pass was well worth it. I was there all summer having a blast. The negative is a blast pass is a must if you wanna have fun. The lines are too long!

Steph K — Google review

Great time for the family. Love the free parking and bring your own food and drinks option available. Highly recommend to wear water shoes . Plenty natural shades in picnic areas.They force you to get off at the end, which is reasonable. Line for this was about 30 minutes. Line to get into the wave pool area was longer (can't just walk into the wave pool area anymore). No line to get into the lazy river in the kids area.

Kristina B — Google review

I had a lot of fun although the food, drinks and all the things they sell there are too expensive, you can bring your cooler with your water, your drinks and a little food, also get on all the a For water attractions you have to wait in line for a maximum of 30 minutes, but it's worth it.If you buy a $50 bracelet you can only use it once at each attraction

YOSELIN Y — Google review

Great park for the Summer time!The park is huge with many thrilling rides. The wait time in the normal line is really time taking, more than an hour for all the coasters. I would advise anyone to take the fast pass to use the maximum of the park. The park has east and west wing, they provide tram to take you to both the parks(free).Kids will enjoy, most of them are for 36" to 42" height rides. They provide kidee tube, we need not worry.Plenty of staff allotted in all the places, they help you go through the rides. Lockers are available on a rental basis!Tickets are in deals, we got the all day drink pass which we can refill every 15mintes, it was worth it for this summer 🌞

Sorna C — Google review

Would be lots of fun if you could actually ride rides. Don’t bother going if you don’t want to pay over double to get a fast pass. You will spend all day in line.half the rides are down, even in the middle of the season and they clearly didn’t fix anything.They used to keep up with the park and the people, and it was great. Now it’s old and dirty and in need of a desperate update. The bathroom is disgusting, food storage is so bad I’m really surprised no one has gotten sick. It’s run by kids and you can tell.

Rachell V — Google review

Rode 2 rides for a whole day entry fee. This park prioritizes profits over all customer experience. With the fast lane options, regular patrons have much longer wait times. We literally waited 2 hours to board the Wolf pack ride while we saw fast lane park goers ride twice before we were next to ride. The life guards allowed fast pass to go before regular line patrons. (Apparently he didnt know to alternate? Lack of training?) So unless you plan to double or triple your entrance fee for each person (by purchasing a $49.99 single fast pass or $99 unlimited fast pass) in addition to regular daily ticket price... skip this water park. Kids were miserable in the long slow lines. Won't be back. Also several rides were closed because of the recent rain... again... no notification about this until we were in the park, disappointed with the multiple closed rides.

Rachel E — Google review

Make sure you upgrade your ticket so you don't have to stand in the lines. The lines for the buses for the other parks suck, the waiting part sucks. Bring a cooler with snacks and sandwiches and drinks unless you want to go broke. The park is cashless so bring a credit or debit card. No glass containers allowed. Other than that, once you are in the park, have fun.

J G — Google review

We had so much fun! I grew up in San Antonio, but live near Dallas. It was so exciting to bring my kids back and to see all that has changed since I was last here in the late '90's. We stayed ALL day and could've spent a few more days. The Falls was, by far, everyone's favorite ride, but the classic, Raging River, was still amazing. We can't wait to come back!

Michelle F — Google review

By far our favorite visit this summer!! A little disappointed with the lack of organization trying to buy the meal passes for the day. It took an hour and repeated visits to get our correct meals. It was 107 degrees the day we would hear a lot of people had the same issue with being able to refill their drink cups. It is so important to stay hydrated with this heat. There should be more stations available to accommodate. Two people passed out from dehydration. That being said, we had a blast. We loved both parks and all of the fun rides. We took the tram to the original park and fell in love with the wave pool. It was a BLAST!!!! We hope to be able to go again!

Melissa — Google review

So fun! I’ve never been before and a Tuesday at the end of May was a perfect amount of people in the park! The east side was better since the lazy river was closer to rapids river!

Megan M — Google review

Visited with family on Saturday got there early. Enjoyed it so much. It was crowded everyone was so pleasant and polite. My favorite waterpark and the best in the entire country.

Edie C — Google review

4.3

(10288)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (147)

4.0

(2347)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (148)

400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130, USA

(830) 625-2351

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21

Natural Bridge Caverns

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Nature preserve

Nature & Parks

This subterranean attraction offers a range of exciting activities for visitors ranging from panning for gems to exploring the otherworldly formations. Highlights include the 60-foot long natural limestone slab bridge that spans the entrance of the caverns and the Hidden Passage Tour, which takes visitors through a series of winding corridors 180 ft underground.

One word, amazing. The place is well kept with clean and maintained facilities above ground with plenty of staff to help guide and direct. The caverns themselves were amazing. The different formations, structures, colors were all awesome to see. The path and railings were sturdy with no issues or concerns along the way with lighting that really complemented the natural formations. Our tour guide was very knowledgeable and he was easy to hear and understand. If you're interested in caverns or caves at all I highly recommend you check this out.

Kyle W — Google review

I never seen anything like this before, so I was impressed by the caves.The fact that caves were natural was cool and the history of caves was attention grabbing. The offered 2 tours each which cost $31 per person. One of the tours was hidden path tour (more difficult path but more unique features) and the other discovery tour (family friendly, easy to navigate and good for first timers). We chose the hidden path tour. It was surprisingly warm in the cave about 75-80 degrees and wet so make sure you grab yourself a pair of food shoes prior to entry. The tour lasted about 50 min. You go down deep inside the cave about 180 feet by stairs and then come right back up. So if you have knee or hip problems, or other physical limitations this tour is not for you. Tickets are sold on site there so no need to order online in advance. 4/5 only because the entry is super overpriced for such a short tour. They really commercialized this place. Also, they are still discovering and prolonging the cave and shall finish by March 2023 so there will be a new tour available.

Karina P — Google review

I've been here several times over the past 30 years. It has definitely grown and become more commercialized but I understand its a business. Definitely gives off an amusem*nt park vibe. Its still a cool place to visit and take your kids. Lots of neat things to see.

Scott H — Google review

A beautiful natural wonder. The caverns go pretty deep underground and are filled with many beautiful things to see. The tour guide was very informative as well. Just make sure you're in good enough shape to be able to climb back up from the very bottom of the cavern as it is quite a long journey uphill. I recommend visiting and seeing the beauty of nature.

Gregory N — Google review

Very fun and interesting experience!! Did not expect Texas to have caves like these, but it was worthwhile and incredible.If you’re into nature and/or history, this is a must visit. The pictures and videos truly do not give justice to the views. They are just incredible.The tour guides are all knowledgeable. Who knew exploring caves and learning fun facts about them would be so entertaining??If you’re not into caves but are a thrill seeker, they did have zip lines and rope courses that looked quite extensive compared to some other ones I’ve seen before. We didn’t get to try the courses, but they did look very fun and exciting.

Julia A — Google review

Great place to witness caves. There are two tours available here. They are 1. Discovery Tour and 2. HiddenWonders Tour.You can choose any one of those or both for tour. Each one takes around 1.5 hour to cover. They will make 2 separate groups for these tours. You need to walk all around the tour. A guide will accompany you to explain. You can get your printed photographs outside. Food and drinks not allowed inside the caves although they allow water. You can take photographs with your mobile.

Vijay S — Google review

Amazing experience. If you’ve got bad knees or hips or can’t walk uphill or downhill this is not for you. Very hot inside the cave even when it’s hot outside. Humidity is also 80+%. Definitely worth it if you are prepared with the appropriate shoes. It is guided so you only have a small amount of time inside. Not at your own pace but still worth it. The guides are very friendly and knowledgeable. Quite memorable.

Matia C — Google review

What an amazing time, we drove up at 0920 to no line to enter, no line for tickets and no lines for the cave tours.Our cave tour was spot on at one hour and fifteen minutes long and was amazing. We had two older adults, 72 and 66; whereas the rest of the group ranged from 44 to 8 but this stopped no one. There were some fears before entering the caves of ability to walk the caves, claustrophobia, physical abilities and limitations but none played into deterring from the tour and admiring the beauty of the caves.I highly recommend this tour but of course recommend asking the ticket counter and tour guide for any guidance and help if required as they offered multiple times if anyone needed.The cave itself offered views and wonders that amazed myself and this tour ranks for me up at the top of my list of vacation expeditions. My son did the ropes course and enjoyed that. We ate at the General Store where the pizza and hot dogs were a bit steep on price. The food at the ticket house seemed to be more reasonable.One item to note though and one that my daughter was super excited to see was the bear jaw bones. These were mentioned at the start of the tour and hyped up, so we trekked back to the ticket house and the jawbone is in a case against the back wall behind some tables where people were eating lunch, underwhelming. My daughter was really hoping to see a better display for these jaw bones, this is something that should be looked into.

Adam H — Google review

Amazing experience indeed this is one of the "world premier show caverns, and one of the most attraction in Texas". 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Good for families, has other activities for kids of all ages.Bought the discovery tour pass for around $30 online. Took around 1 hour. Tour starts on time.Need good walking shoes because there are natural water formations on the ground, can be slippery.Has good hand rails for steep areas.We had no problem walking the whole cave. but advisory for people who can not walk decline/incline hills and unable to handle humidity.Our tour Gal, she was very knowledgeable & funning. 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟Kudos to the whole team: the explorers & planners. The construction and layout for the cavern was very well thought out.Would love to do the hidden passage and adventure explorer next time.Yes!!! highly recommended.

Team C — Google review

Commercial Caverns would be a better name.We have been to SEVERAL caves/caverns in multiple areas of the U.S. Our take on the Caverns themselves at Natural Bridge Caverns were wonderful and we truly enjoyed seeing them. Everything else about the visit left much to be desired.The walkways and paths into and out of the caverns are very nice, be mindful that they're quite steep if you plan to tour. I'm not knocking them for this, just awareness if you plan to visit.The tour itself consists of multiple "tour guides" staged throughout the caverns to elaborate on that portion. Wasn't a bad idea compared to having a single tour guide IMO, BUT...... THEY NEED TO WAIT ON THE ENTIRE GROUP AND SLOW DOWN WHEN TALKING!!!!!!!! We were towards the latter part of our group, and I honestly don't think I could tell you three sentences from the guides.Again, we really enjoyed the Caverns themselves....everything else was a complete turnoff for us. Overall takeaway is that I felt like I was in a tourist trap with prices comparable to major theme parks. Seemed like we were rushed through so the next herd could get in, get out, and make way for the others.For a family of three to do the combo tour and ropes course it would be nearly $300 dollars........ We WON'T be back! Too many other attractions in the area to go broke here!

Eric J — Google review

Experience of a lifetime! Two separate cavern systems to explore with well-trained tour guides. If you plan on doing both tours be prepared to walk at least 2 hours in high humidity. They provide a 30 minute break in between tours (you can choose to schedule a longer break if necessary) but I definitely wouldn’t recommend it if you have difficulty moving around, have asthma or experience extreme claustrophobia.We only toured the caverns and shopped around the gift shops but you can easily spend all day here. They have a maze and zip line playground for the kiddos along with a crystal sifting area at the gift shop.

Lizet D — Google review

Today we took the Hidden Wonders Tour. We arrived at 1pm, but our tour didn't start until 2pm. During our wait time, we raced our way through the maze. It was really hot outside, but we completed the maze in 11 minutes, which is faster than the average of 15 minutes so we were happy about that. Lol Our tour guide was Jennifer. She was pretty thorough, but it was kinda hard to hear her since we were in a large group. All caverns are pretty to me, but this one was spectacular. It is amazing to see how massive caverns can be! There were so many centuries old stalactites, stalagmites, columns, soda straws, etc. Each "room" was more beautiful than the last. And the last room on this tour had a theatrical light show that was really nice. We rode the BAT thingy on the way back up. It was really slow, but it beat having to hike up the incline to the exit. 😁

Kasee L — Google review

Wonderful cavern tour for the whole family. We recently did this tour and it was great! We did the Discovery Tour and found the hike to be very manageable for us and our small kids. The entire thing is completed on a paved path but be aware that the caverns are actively dripping and so you may want shoes with decent grip and ones you don't care if they get wet or dirty.The features of these caverns are amazing and the lighting fantastic. Our whole family enjoyed this and we hope to visit again to see a different section!

Rob S — Google review

Loved it! It was a unique experience. I bought tickets online for the new Hidden Wonders tour. (If you're not sure you're gonna get there on time, buy them when you arrive. They're fast at the ticket counter. They start on time, every time.)The tour took over an hour, but honestly, it felt shorter. Our guide was full of spark and knowledgeable. The pictures taken in the beginning are kinda cool. About 30$ for the whole pack. I recommend wearing shoes with traction. It is a little wet down there. I was in awe of all the formations and light show. There are rails for you to grab, and a hand washing station just outside after the tour.

Amber R — Google review

Out of this world. Can't say enough about this. We did the Discovery tour which I understand is the original set of caves that were opened to the public. Just incredible to be 200 feet below the surface experiencing such beauty. We had a fantastic guide as well. Charming and humorous. Very good at answering our questions and keeping track of the large group. Highly highly recommend making time for this.

Jordan H — Google review

Amazing experience!! Highly recommend visiting this place! I have been to couple of other caverns, but this one was way different and awesome compared to those! They have other activities available on site as well, so you can easily spend half day (or full day if you do both tours).

Vishal P — Google review

Very busy family friendly place. Cavern tour wasn't as informative and interesting as other caverns. Still a good experience. The Twist and Trails looks super fun for school-age kids. Next door is the Natural Bridge Wildlife Park. Again a fun family adventure. You could spend the entire day doing all these 2 locations offer.

Maura D — Google review

Great guided experience. We did the Discovery tour which was family friendly. Excellent guides who are really descriptive and funny at the same time.Tickets are $30/personA must if you are in the areaNote - not recommended for clausterphobic folks.

Pranjal T — Google review

I took a group of Girl Scouts most of which just graduated High School. We all loved it. The walk was a challenge but doable. I was glad that I wore shoes with traction, some areas were slick.We had 10 people and there were others on with our time slot. I felt the group was too large and I couldn’t hear what the tour guide was saying. She was very nice and informative for the parts that I could hear. The caverns are beautiful and it was a great experience. We did the discovery tour

Karolyn W — Google review

A must see ⭐️What a wonderful place. I have been living in Houston for 12 years and can you imagine I have never been here.I cannot believe how deep it was and what a great adventure it is.Loved it and loved it.Must book your tour. We did it on site. Last tour is like at 4:30 but call. The cave is hot so if beware. You can take lots of pictures. It is slippery so be careful.No heals.Wear comfortable clothes there is a lot of steps and walking you do.The tickets were like $30 per person

Hande B — Google review

This place is incredible. I’m a geologist and had no idea this was lurking under the relative flatness of central Texas. My children and I marveled at the beauty of the caverns and appreciated the time spent exploring and preserving the space for all to see.The grounds are well kept and they have included lots of other businesses and activities for folks to explore. The guides were well educated and seemed to be enjoying their jobs.There is expansion taking place since more caverns have been discovered and we are excited to visit when they open the new areas.

P?maika`i — Google review

This is a great little cave system to visit. Our guide, Ben, was funny and informative. I especially enjoyed his bat shadow puppets! I was surprised to see how big the caverns were (and how much we actually walked).After the tour, we grabbed bit at the restaurant on site. Pretty much pizza, but it was totally worth it. Got a slice of peperoni and it was delicious.Afterward, my friend and I took a stab at the maze. It was fun running around trying to find the letters. And hey, we only got a little lost a couple of times. I'd like to think we did pretty well.So if you're looking for something different to do for a couple hours, it's worth the drive.

Glorkar F — Google review

Live in Texas and didn’t know such beautiful underground caves exist. This place was a blast for the whole family with things to do for all ages. We had 4 years that were able to do the discovery tour (180’ cave) no problem in flip flops. We were concerned because we didn’t quite come prepared. They also have a nice relaxing outdoor area spaced out with gift shops, food, cold drinks etc. Loved our experience, thank you team for everything!

Viktor P — Google review

🦂🦇This place was gorgeous and far exceeded our expectations. 🤍🤍 We’ve been to caverns before and typically they are not very well maintained & really zero amenities at the ones outside the great state of Texas! ♥️💙 this place has it all. 🎁 Amazing gift shops. Activities for kids everywhere. 🪨🧗‍♂️👶🏻👧🏽🧒🏼👦🏿You can purchase a bag of sand with different stones & crystals inside for them to “mine” & have the whole thing set up for them. 🥨🌭🍔🥤Snack stands. Some type of obstacle course as long as you aren’t afraid of heights. 🧗‍♂️🧗‍♂️ Everywhere you turn there’s beautiful nature & wildlife. 🐿️🦅🦃🪺It’s amazing. Highly recommend. Amazing place to explore with kids for education purposes, field trips, dates, take family/friends, etc. Highly recommend it. It’s an absolute beautiful treasure.⚠️ The one warning I have for elderly, pregnant, or anyone with heart or health issues - it can be a strenuous hike inside the cave. There’s plenty to do if you go with a group and cannot tour the cave. There are areas that are very steep & you must hold onto the handrail. The group I was in and to stop several times and wait for people. One lady sounded like she was going to need medical care. If you’re ill or at risk- I would be cautious going on the actual walk through the cave.

Cori M — Google review

Wonderful day. Knowledgeable guides. If you have mobility issues you may want to skip the Discover tour. The climb out will test your fitness. It is breathtaking and worth it in my opinion.

Elizabeth H — Google review

This is a "must do" kind of place. The two tours are so worth it! Both the discovery cavern and the hidden cavern are different enough you'll want to see both. Plenty of free parking, but I still recommend coming earlier in the day so you have time for both tours and the other activities available if you're interested. Definitely book online so you've got your spot guaranteed. Gift shop, several places to eat, plenty of places to stop and rest.

Kat S — Google review

Natural Bridge Caverns in Texas is an awe-inspiring natural wonder. As you descend into the caverns, the world transforms into a magical realm of stunning stalactites, stalagmites, and delicate formations, all beautifully illuminated. The tour guides are knowledgeable, sharing fascinating details about the caverns' history and geology. The walkways are well-maintained, ensuring a safe experience for all ages. The caverns' constant cool temperature provides a refreshing escape from the outside heat. Above ground, there are fun activities like zip-lining and gem mining, making it a perfect family destination. This underground marvel is an unforgettable journey into Earth’s hidden beauty.

Kedar P — Google review

We went to this cave as one of the first we’ve ever been in and it was a great time.We went on the Hidden Wonders Tour and since we went later on in the afternoon on a weekday, we were the only ones on the tour, which was kind of neat.The staff at the caverns are very knowledgeable and friendly. They explained everything beforehandIt was very neat to see all the structural formations naturally constructed over time. My favourite part was the lights show at the end, which makes it a bit more magical.It is a bit of a walk but there are stops to sit. There is also a conveyor belt at the end that you can stand on if you choose when going out of the cave.Definitely something to do when you’re in San Antonio.

Angelica B — Google review

WOW! Visited San Antonio recently and decided to spend the day at the Natural Bridge Caverns ... and can you say awe-inspiring! This geological wonder was such a great place to explore. I was also surprised to learn that this is one of the largest commercial caverns in the state. The journey through the caverns and all the breathtaking formations will blow you away!You get a guided tour which lead us through a labyrinth of stalactites and stalagmites, some millions of years old, each with its own unique shape and story. The guides provide insightful commentary, sharing the geological history and pointing out notable formations along the way.One of the highlights of the tour is the beautiful Natural Bridge, which is a massive limestone formation that spans an impressive length, serving as a reminder of the caverns' ancient origins. As we navigated the winding paths, we were able to take in the amazingly stunning views and took some cool photos!But when you are done exploring the caverns, Natural Bridge Caverns also offers additional attractions, including gem mining, zip-lining, and a maze, providing entertainment for visitors of all ages. There is an on-site gift shop which offers a variety of souvenirs and geological items which was helpful in allowing us to take a little part of our experience home.If you are in San Antonio, Natural Bridge Caverns is a must-visit! I don't think you have to be a nature enthusiast or history buff to enjoy. If you are simply looking for a unique experience, why not venture into the depths of the earth and marvel at the millions of years upon you!

Marc C — Google review

This was a great experience. We were visiting Texas looking for something to do and found this awesome place. I recommend touring both caverns. As close together as they are they are different experiences... Tour guides were very informative on formations and safety tips.

Merton P — Google review

It was a nice experience, we really enjoyed it. The tour guide was informative and friendly.We also enjoyed the outdoor games near the picnic tables and the gift shop. Pretty humid in the cavern but not so bad. Wear comfortable shoes with good traction as the trails are steep and wet. (Hand railings throughout) You can bring a water bottle inside the cavern, there’s also a water fountain inside the cavern and at the exit with the ability to purchase beverages. Dress comfortably. Picnic areas outside. Pretty tranquil.

Ashly A — Google review

I took my gf to this amazing place this past weekend. This is my third visit, and they have a lot of changes done to the Discovery tour. Our guide was very knowledgeable and patient with a lot of us. I would recommend booking the ticket in advance and having it pull out before you enter the place because the signal can get quite bad inside. Some roads can get quite narrow, and the path can get quite slippery. Definitely wear good hiking shoes.

Mark L — Google review

My Girlfriend and I loved the tour and had a good time. The guide was informative and fun. We went down almost couple hundred feet and loved the small light and sound show at the bottom, then instead of the (BAT) we hiked it back up to the entrance at the top!

Juan S — Google review

We really enjoyed our tour, the tour guide was very knowledgeable. We went on the discovery tour and would come back to the other cave. Would be a bit challenging for some to navigate as some of the paths are pretty steep. Also the tickets were a little pricey.

Matt B — Google review

We had a great time at Natural Bridge Caverns. We did both tours and was amazed these formations existed. It was educational and awe inspiring. If you have some time and are a bit adventurous they also have rope courses and zip lining as well. You can easily make a really nice day of it.

Kim T — Google review

A Breathtaking Underground Adventure:Visiting Natural Bridge Cavern was an unforgettable experience! From the moment we stepped into the cave, we were mesmerized by the stunning formations and the knowledgeable guides who shared fascinating insights about the geological wonders around us. The cavern's beauty truly takes your breath away, and the combo tours was both educational and thrilling. I highly recommend this attraction to anyone looking for a unique and awe-inspiring adventure.

Shashang M — Google review

The grounds here are beautiful, and the caverns are gorgeous. The parking lot is ample, with plenty of tree-lined spaces. Ramps are in place for those in wheel chairs or those who have mobility issues. Picnic tables dot the outskirts of the closer parking spots, too!The ticket office is located to the left after entering the visitor center. Also in the center is a gift shop with some very nice things. Other buildings include another gift shop and a small restaurant/snack shop.There is a zip-line ride in the middle of the park, too! You just walk up several flights of stairs to the top and then ride the zip line down in a spiral path to the bottom. It looks really easy, something that almost anyone can do!The restaurant offers bottled water and other libations. Lots of candy bars and snacks line the walls. We ordered a brisket sandwich and paid 10 dollars for a junior-sized bun that had been over-microwaved, so it had the consistency of unchewable rubber, and the meat was absolutely tasteless and dry. Along with that overpriced piece of hockey puck bread was a serving of Sweet Baby Ray's BBQ sauce and a serving of pickled cucumbers and onions, which were good but not enough to rescue the most horrible sandwich I have ever had. Seriously. I ended up throwing away the entire bun after scraping off most of the tasteless meat and eating that. I would expect all their buns and rolls to be microwaved and all their meat dry and tasteless, so I would recommend NOT buying any food here except for candy bars and bottled water.Food is not the reason for our visit to the caverns, though: we came to see the underground formations, and they were worth it. The tour takes about an hour and 10 minutes, and the walk is very easy, even for someone with balance issues and a walking stick like me. The only challenge is that the smooth paths are not 100 percent flat, so when turning sharp corners, the handrails don't always meet, and you might have to feel a little less secure just for a second. Just about anyone can hack the walks: the trails are not too steep and not strenuous at all. The innermost caverns are very, very humid and hot, so be prepared with lighter clothes than other caverns. (For example: Mammoth Cave and Carlsbad Caverns are around 58 degrees year round, but the Natural Bridge Caverns are very warm, around 70 degrees Fahrenheit with 100 percent humidity so that it feels like 80+ degrees! If you get overheated easily, it will not be pleasant.)You can get some great photographs in this cavern, and the staff is very friendly. The gift shop offers nice wares, and the facilities are beautiful, too. These things, along with easy walking and tourist-friendly amenities (except for the horrible food), make it an excellent choice for everyone, even those with children and older adults.

Cindy R — Google review

Absolutely beautiful. We did the discovery cavern tour and the maze. The tour lasted about an hour and a half and was very educational. Our tour guide was incredibly nice. The maze was fun for he kids. There’s also outdoor games like connect four, checkers and other things. They have picnic tables. There’s lots of fun to be had here.

Cheska R — Google review

This was a fun activity to do with our family. Definitely wear your baby as you’ll need your hands to hold the rail when you walk up or down into the cave. It’s humid in there as well, so no matter what the temp is outside you’ll be sweating down there! Such a neat discovery! Lots of other things to do after the tour; ropes course, maze, lawn games, gem panning. We did not do the other things they offer but if you want to make a day out of it there is plenty to do! Our your guide Donna was great as well!

Amy M — Google review

Such an awesome and beautiful experience. Wear tennis shoes and be ready for a steady climb down and more so on your way up. Not for elderly or those who cannot handle too much exercise.The tour guides are very informative and fun while they explain everything.The scenery unforgettable. Hearing how many thousands of years it takes for just a small "Pillar" to form is crazy.Cannot wait to explore other areas next time.There is so much to look at and see before and after as well.

JoAnne M — Google review

We did the discovery tour. It was really fun! Some areas are tight and low. It didn’t bother us. It’s possible for most people to walk this and enjoy the beauty of this cavern. The tour guide was super informative and pleasant. The beauty in the cavern was amazing! Plenty of options for food and drinks before or after the tour.

Eric F — Google review

These caverns are some of the most beautiful caverns I have ever visited. The tour guide was fabulous and the walking tour through the cavern took about 90 minutes. The rock formations and the stalactites and stalagmites were wonderful. There were some natural variations in the color of the rocks. It was like being in another world. At the end of the tour, they had a light and music show in this one huge room in the cavern and it was divine😀. They also have a gift shop.

Sharon D — Google review

Went to Natural Bridge Caverns on a rainy Saturday. Kids had a blast! We did both the normal tour and the hidden paths tour. The normal type was much faster moving and had a lot more to see. Skipped the maze and zip tours as there was rain and lightning and those were closed but the park refunded our purchase.

Joshua P — Google review

Definitely a must see if you are in the area! There are some steep grades going down and up so be prepared and wear good shoes! Our guide Rachel did a great job of showing and explaining different formations in the cave!

Kayla A — Google review

It was a great way to see middle earth with family and friends! It’s a little touristy but well worth the visit for the breath taking sights underground.Also, check out the gift shop for extra memories or snacks (dots ice cream) 🍦

Dave R — Google review

Historically informative and well-lit. Went here yesterday.There is clear effort put in the stairs to make them safe to walk on, as well as railings for extra precautions, which was also offered while riding the B.A.T., which leads you up the steep hill to the exit of the cave (don’t hold onto the railings for too long, they don’t move with you!). This transportation technique is located at the end of the Hidden Wonders Tour, which is preferred for those who have already journeyed through the Discovery Tour, with both being offered if you purchase tickets directly from the Combo Tour option. The Discovery Tour is the oldest one, most recommended for those newly experiencing cave exploration, as there are guides dispersed around the path. Meanwhile, the Hidden Wonders Tour is newest and led by an individual guide, where you watch an informative video before heading down to the cave. Both options take you/your company’s photo and offer you the opportunity to buy that photo at the end of the tour. They also keep everyone in groups for safety measures, although mix-up is possible with other groups ahead. There are only two walking tours, with the Adventure Tours being climbing. We got a great view of the natural bridge!Overall, amazing view, highly recommended. There is 99% humidity in the caves, and air conditioning inside the main building in case you need to cool down after a tour. Enjoy yourselves!

The E — Google review

The Discovery Tour at Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio, TX, is a phenomenal experience! While the tour can be challenging for some due to the 180-foot descent underground through well-maintained but occasionally slippery pathways, the adventure is well worth it. You get an up-close and personal look at the largest cavern in the state, exploring massive cave rooms and stunning rock formations. The state-of-the-art lighting showcases the caverns in a mesmerizing way, highlighting the natural beauty of the formations.The tour guides are incredibly knowledgeable, friendly, and professional, providing a cautious and well-paced journey with necessary stops to catch your breath, especially on the way back up. The spectacular natural formations, including soda straws, flowstone, stalagmites, and stalactites, have grown over thousands of years and continue to thrive thanks to the park's outstanding stewardship and educational efforts. Highly recommend this tour for an unforgettable underground adventure!

Juan G — Google review

Super super fun and it was not hot at all.Great customer service and very friendly employees. The caves were nice and were super interesting. Even after the cave exploration there was fun activities like the gift shop, obstacle course, and outdoor activities. It is an overall great place to take your family for some fun.

Marlene S — Google review

Amazing. Our tour guide Sarah was phenomenal. She was energetic and informative. We went on a Thursday during spring break. Parking was easy and not over crowded. We walked into the building and at the entrance is where you buy the tickets. They do have packages and military discount. We participated in viewing both caverns. Both were very interesting to walk through. Just like every natural cave, you cannot touch the walls or formations. Pictures are welcomed. Steps and walk ways are slippery so wear close toed shoes. It's also a lot of walking. 2 hours for first cave. The second cave has a conveyor belt that brings you out of the cave. Or you can walk a steep slope. There are benches for breaks. There are other activities to do on the ranch as well, such as a ropes course. There's food and drinks available and plenty of shadded sitting areas for lunch and resting. The bathrooms are so clean and futuristic, it's jaw dropping. We had a great time and can't wait to go again to see the wildlife ranch.

Analisa H — Google review

This was one of the most amazing caverns I’ve been to. I like that it is family owned and operated. I did the discovery tour and that is currently $27-30 depending on what day of the week you go. It’s an hour long so I recommend wearing good sneakers. It’s about 70 degrees inside the cavern. Our tour guide was very informative and knowledgeable. If you’re not in shape, disabled, or an older adult, I would skip this as it can get strenuous at times. If you think you can do it, then all the more power to you.

Nicholas P — Google review

This was an enjoyable time out. We did the Hidden Wonders tour and quickly found our place in queue. Staff were all pleasant and great to talk with.It was a well paced walk to see everything and had a terrific time. If anything could be improved, it would be exit signage. I understand that you don't want to guests leaving bit leaving g them confused isn't a better option. From a a customer service standpoint, it only helps avoid easy answers.Get your tickets in advance to save money and select your tour time.

Martin H — Google review

I'm from Florida. We visit Marianna caverns a lot. We absolutely were astounded by Natural Bridge. The pictures do no just of the beauty of this place! The tours are WELL worth the exercise! Be prepared to be amazed of the formations and the HISTORY! PREHISTORIC! The nature of this place was everything was perfectly projected. I would walk it a million more times.

Seanna B — Google review

4.7

(15159)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (163)

4.5

(4047)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (164)

26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, USA

(210) 651-6101

22

Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge Observation Deck

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Sights & Landmarks

Bridges

Nature & Wildlife Areas

The Ann W. Richards Congress Avenue Bridge Observation Deck in Austin offers a unique family outing to witness an extraordinary natural phenomenon. The bridge is home to over 1.5 million bats, creating the largest urban bat colony in the world. From July to August, visitors can watch as the bats emerge at dusk to feed on millions of air-born insects, creating a spectacular sight as they take flight into the evening sky.

Considering the current south shore plant/tree overgrowth (April 2024) I think THIS is the best place to stand when waiting for the bats to come out from under the bridge. Yes the bats begin to emerge on the south side first, but you don't need to see the *first* bats to see an impressive display. As it turns out, we didn't see a large group of bats this evening (it rained and was generally too cool), but we did see (and hear) some bats, and the trip to the bridge was worthwhile. We waited from 30 minutes before until about 50 minutes after sunset, then left. Austin has a lovely skyline! We walked here from our hotel near the convention center, along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike and Bike Trail. It was a very pleasant walk with lots of tree cover.

Emily G — Google review

Nice meeting spot, and iconic location of the largest Mexican free tail bat colony in North America. See them fly at dusk at the southeast end of the bridge, below looking up when nightly guides of kayak and boat tours shine their red lights to see the flying bats. Check out "Austin bat refuge" online for nightly bat forecast.

Mimi S — Google review

Elvira A — Google review

The Ann Richard bridge, also known as the bat bridge in Austin Texas, is a great place to people and bar watch. When you walk under during the day you can hear them chirping, and then they take off in the evening. Cool painting by the observation deck.

Adam R — Google review

Fun little place to see the Congress Bridge from below. You can definitely tell bats live there by the interesting smell as you approach.

Melissa P — Google review

Walked from hotel and got to watch the bats fly at dusk! Incredible experience.

Zach A — Google review

Only a view bats in the evenig

Angela R — Google review

Watching the bats by the evening is a must-do in town

Juan E — Google review

4.7

(14)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (172)

4.0

(4192)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (173)

Lady Bird Lake, Austin, TX 78701, USA

23

Texas Capitol

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State government office

Sights & Landmarks

The impressive Capitol building in Austin was completed in 1888 and is a nationally recognized historical landmark. The dome is made of red granite from Granite Mountain near Marble Falls, Texas, and the walls are decorated with handrails and brass chandeliers spelling out TEXAS. The building houses the offices and chambers of the Texas State Legislature as well as the Governor's office.

Beautiful historical building. The Renaissance-style architecture of the Texas State Capitol reveals how diverse the State of Texas has always been, with unique food, cultures, and people! I went with my family on a Saturday evening, yet the Capitol was as calm as ever. The Capitol grounds are a splendid picnic spot, dotted with fountains and sculptures of Texas revolutionaries. Would definitely recommend to anyone visiting Austin!

Arathi S — Google review

Very nice visit at the Texas Capitol. I arrived just in time for the start of a (free) guided tour inside the building. The guide was very competent as he explained the history of the Capitol (and, consequently, of Texas itself). We were able to enter the Senate and, after the guided tour, to roam around freely to see every detail that we might have missed. I recommend the visit if you are in Austin!

Matteo D — Google review

As a professional photographer I've shot weddings and elopements at the Capitol building many times and I can say it's a perfect location for a small wedding. The beautifully well-maintained grounds combined with classic architecture provides the perfect backdrop for couples portraits. Free parking on Sundays is a plus!

Morgan B — Google review

Visiting Austin from UK, we took a look around and loved walking around and seeing the history of this place. It's on a few floors, being able to see from the ground floor up and also looking down from upper galleries, different wings with different rooms all off the main dome central, which is the main beauty of this place, however the large grand side rooms are where the history is made. Everything from the brass elevator doors, to the beautiful inscribed hinges of the large doors is wonderful to admire. Well worth a good 1-2hr visit here.

Tristan C — Google review

Just Amazing.If you want to know about Texas History or just want to take in everything Texan, this is the right spot for you. It’s the embodiment of everything Texan. Right from the entrance to the Gift shop, everything is so beautifully designed.The staff and government officials are amazing and courteous to answer all the questions I had. They even let you go into the state house and senate which is great!

JAY J — Google review

I highly recommend visiting the Texas State Capitol building in Austin. Built in 1885 by architect Elijah E. Myers, it's an impressive structure and the 6th tallest state capitol building. The surrounding area is adorned with beautiful statues and monuments, perfect for exploration.The capitol tour is free. The sad part is every time I went to visit the Texas capitol building, either it was after hours or the building was closed for renovation or Covid; so I couldn't get the chance to do the capitol tours.Another thing I want to mention is if you want to take pictures standing in front of the capitol building from the front lawn, the building is almost covered with trees, and only the top part is shown from the lawn. Consider photographing from the corners for a full building view. And now since the construction is going on, it is difficult to capture the perfect photo.There's a nearby parking lot offering free parking for 2 hours on weekdays, but be aware of charges on weekends or special events. You can also do street parking. Overall, a must-visit in Austin!

Tasnim I — Google review

It has beautiful walking trails amongst tall trees, there is a parking garage nearby and the inside is magnificent! Stunning motifs, architecture and paintings. A must see if you are a resident, but also a nice tourist spot, they have tours from the visitor center in the white building next door and two gift shops one inside the capital and one inside the visitor center.

Vanessa C — Google review

It was marvellous! It was a great visit and it was very educational. Very well maintained, and every corner speaks history. You should visit it If you are in Austin. You will learn a lot about so many events through out the paintings, guide tour and information boards.

Shereen H — Google review

I give the Texas State Capital building in Austin five stars. Texas taxpayers spent a LOT of money on this building, and it turned out so classy. The finest materials were used and it looks like the designers spent thousands of hours getting every little detail perfect. I highly recommend stopping here to see for yourself.

Jess E — Google review

Beautiful capital building. There are also nice monuments in the surrounding yard. Nice place to see if you’re visiting Austin. Warning: it can get very hot during the summer.

Christopher C — Google review

The Texas Capitol in Austin is super cool! It's like a giant castle with a huge dome on top. Inside, there are big rooms where important people make decisions for the state. They even have tours where they show you around and tell you fun facts. It's definitely worth checking out if you're ever in Austin!

Dailo आ — Google review

Unfortunately lot of construction work going on when I was there night to again.Huge park area in front of the building with historic information. The congress Avenue is exactly opposite to the building and looks fantastic from the street.

Vijay D — Google review

The architecture is absolutely stunning. It is also nice to watch the meetings in the house and senate live. Do not forget to take a look at the gift store underground, they have some pretty Christmas ornaments.

Raony F — Google review

Visitor friendly amenities, with a 30-minute free guided tour of the building is the highlight! My guide, Austin (!) was cheerful, friendly & enthusiastic throughout the tour.... we saw the senate & house chambers, all the governors/ presidents of this great state, as well as the architectural marvel that this building is... with it's dome being taller than the US capitol in DC! The lone star at the top of the dome is 218 feet high from ground! Impressive all around! And very very historic too!!!

Akhil P — Google review

Texas Capitol allows you to enter inside the building with strict security check up. Inside the building, we can see all the governors photos up to the date. Further, we can see the actual assembly hall and speaker of the house chair as well. I heard if you visit in meetings hours you can actually see the ongoing meeting.

Netra N — Google review

Looks cool from the outside, but that's about it. Inside is genuinely ugly, and there's nothing to do in there except look at the beige walls or struggle to hear the tour guide due to the ridiculous amount of echo.

Error 4 — Google review

The Capitol is very nice inside with very interesting history. We had a free tour and learnt a lot about Texas.

Michalis K — Google review

Beautiful architecture and local guide was explaining the history.. All age groups will enjoy this place.

Hemanth L — Google review

Interesting and beautiful working building which houses Texas law makers. You are able to visit the building but I guess there could be restrictions at some dates, tours are taking place all the time which you can easily join and last about 20 to 30 minutes.

Mark I — Google review

A very beautiful building! We have visited several times, and each time we find a new nuance. It is so pivotal to have young children visit this place! Remember, everything is bigger in Texas, referencing that this is the largest state capital building in the US. You simply must visit our state capital in Texas!

Yvonne J — Google review

4.7

(3834)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (181)

4.5

(8046)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (182)

1100 Congress Ave., Austin, TX 78701, USA

(512) 463-4630

24

Dr Pepper Museum

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (183)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (184)

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (185)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (186)

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Museum

Historical landmark

The Dr Pepper Museum is an American history museum based in Waco, Texas, that specializes in the history and memorabilia of soft drinks. The museum has a collection of over 4 million items related to the soft drink industry, including soda bottles, advertisem*nts, and equipment from pre-dating Coca-Cola by one year. The museum also features exhibits on the economics of the soft drink industry as well as how it has shaped American culture.

LOVED the museum! So much to see and learn. The staff was great. The gift shop and soda fountain area was our favorite! The kids loved that they got to make their own soda and create new flavors! It was a great experience.

Myra H — Google review

I LOVED this place. As a native Texan, raised on the only soda there is, this museum was Awesome! There are three floors of Dr Pepper memorabilia. There is also a soda fountain and interactive workshops. The Make-a-Soda was very fun(do recommend buying advanced tickets for this and the Taste-a-Soda) The gift shop was great. You can take home everything from shirts, hats, and magnets to the original Dr Pepper itself. Also, every paid admission receives a free Dr Pepper or $1 off the floats.

Amber T — Google review

Super Place to take a break from driving for a few hours. Much more to see and do than we expected. Try the Taste-a-soda... We got 0 right but had a great time with Gale anyway. My kids 16&14 actually enjoyed the whole place. Don't miss the Dr. Pepper floats. Seriously.... Don't miss them.

Kathryn W — Google review

Great place to visit. Enjoyed touring the museum. It has 3 floors filled with Dr Pepper stuff plus adjoining buildings with a gift shop & small cafe. Plus it is only about 2 blocks away from the famous Magnolia Complex of Chip & Joanne fame.

Mike T — Google review

Great experience! Very fun place to experience if you love Dr. Pepper! They have taste testing and make your own soda. Alex made the taste testing experience so fun! The museum has a lot of info and history as well.I recommend buying tickets in advance for any of the experiences they offer.

WanderingLlama — Google review

Such a unique place with lots of history! It has 3 floors filled with information and unique items. The employee who sold us our tickets was so nice and friendly. Very busy on the weekend. We opted to not wait for the free soda because the line was so long. I hope to be back to do the taste a soda and make a soda experiences!

Jillian R — Google review

This place was pretty cool. Way more interesting than I thought it would be. It has the expected history, cans and bottles and old advertisem*nts. But there's also flavor chemistry, manufacturing stuff, the flops like celery soda and new co*ke. Lots of reading, don't expect to be wowed by loud music and flashing lights. Ten bucks. 2 buildings.

Gary T — Google review

Fun museum on the history of Dr. Pepper. Three floors to explore and lots of cute photo ops in the museum. Soda fountain was a fun way to end, and some of the soda choices are included with the $10 admission ticket, or you can get $ 1 off other options, including floats. Taste-A-Soda and Make-Your-Own-Sodas you can add on for an extra $5 and $10 per person. Both are very fun and memorable experiences. Pogo pass Dallas includes the admission ticket, and you can usually find promos for a discount on the Pogo pass.

Sarah N — Google review

Excellent museum! Kids love Dr. Pepper and on our way to Dallas we stopped and it was awesome experience! Very neat to read and see the history of the drink, various photos, equipment, tools, first bottles and more! At the end tried the float and was tasty! Kids loved it! Recommended it!

Jorge F — Google review

Definitely an experience to share!!! There was a lot of information about the Dr. Pepper company, how it was made, where it came from and even where it is now. If you have an afternoon, Definitely check it out!!! Don't forget to get your free drink or dollar off of a float! (Which I recommend!)

Samantha L — Google review

I don't think just anybody would be as excited by this museum as we were, but we are so glad we stopped!It's not World of Coca-Cola (Atlanta), but isn't trying to be, and that's what we loved! It's a small, non-profit museum in an historic building telling a story about the rise of soft drink, the bottling processes, the employee experiences, the international expansion, the power of marketing, and the passion of one of Dr. Pepper's most devoted CEOs-W. W. "Foots" Clements.My 16 year-old said he preferred it to World of co*ke (though that was about 4 years ago). That may have also partly been because it's smaller size and cheaper ticket meant we only spent about 2 hours and didn't burn out the kids. Mom and I had been through here almost 20 years ago and were shocked how much it seemed to have grown. If it was there before, we missed the 7-Up section and soda jerk / soda floats completely before, but not this time!Who SHOULD visit? I'd say it is definitely better for someone who is interested in soda pop (or history in general), willing to do a lot of reading, and doesn't require hands-on exhibits to stay occupied. A bit of nostalgia helps, too, whether you're of the "10, 2, and 4" era or "Wouldn't you like to be a Pepper, too?" Now, time to go try a hot Dr. Pepper...

Michael S — Google review

We highly enjoyed the Dr. Pepper Museum. Lots of cool things on display.Good history of the company and it's employees. I enjoy the trucks on display a lot. The staff was very friendly. It's worth the $10 to get in. My whole family enjoyed the museum. Easy to get to off of I-35

A A — Google review

We honestly hit this up due the proximity to magnolia market. It was a cute hidden gem that does show a unique way of preserving the history of the Dr Pepper company. All of the antique signage and marketing pieces were great to look at. You won’t need to reserve admission tickets in advance but it you’re interested in either the Make A Soda or Taste a Soda experiences I would def buy these in advance.

Kristen S — Google review

What an amazing experience! Three floors of Dr. Pepper history, another separate building with even more Dr. Pepper history, including a free Dr. Pepper drink. Only $12.00 dollars per individual, free for children 4 and younger. The gift shop was also neat, with plenty of Dr. Pepper trinkets to buy. Took my wife and I, along with a very, dear friend of ours and her two sons, about two hours to check the whole experience out. No wonder this museum was packed as it is truly a must see experience if you're in Waco, TX.

Michael O — Google review

A nice museum that exhibits the origin and the history of an alternate drink among the other familiar drinks !Home of Dr.Pepper is a nice architectural piece.The museum store gives the choices for the souvenirs, and an on site quick bite restaurant with indigenous drink gives an opportunity to spend some time relaxing.No car parking in site. Paid lots and street parking are available nearby.

T R — Google review

Really well done museum with a complete history of Dr Pepper.The place is right next to the Silos in Waco making it very convenient for multiple experiences in one day.The staff were friendly and helpful.The only negatives were the tables in the malt shop were not cleaned regularly and the gift shop is over priced.However, if you are a fan of Dr Pepper, you will love the experience.

Brandon P — Google review

"I'm A Pepper", so of course I had to visit the Dr. Pepper Museum while in Waco! :-) There are 3 floors packed with memorabilia inside of a 1906 bottling plant. There's so much to take in and interact with that I recommend giving yourself at least an hour to get through it all. One of my favorite things about this museum was a "theater" where you can sit and watch all of the Dr. Pepper commercials! The "I'm A Pepper" commercial is my favorite, but my goodness, I heard it in my head over and over for the rest of the tour. :-)Then there's the gift shop and the soda fountain, complete with a "soda jerk", so plan on an extra hour of two after enjoying the museum. Grab a free Dr. Pepper (best ever) or get a dollar off a Dr. Pepper Float on your way out.My friend, Nicole, thought the sign that read "Tip your Jerk" was awfully rude, until I explained that Soda Jerk is the actual title of the sweet lady who poured our DP! :-D(If you love Dr. Pepper like I do, grab a bag of Dr. Pepper Cotton Candy while your there!)I absolutely recommend making time to visit the Dr. Pepper Museum if you're ever in or near Waco, Texas! I loved it!

Lisa M — Google review

What a cool experience! So much history at the Dr pepper museum. History of sparkling water, mineral water, Dr pepper, and all kinds of other soda's. Museum also had pictures and information about the tornado of 1953 that destroyed a large portion of Waco. Museum tour includes a fountain drink as well. So much history here. Great way to cool off indoors and learn about the history of soda! Definitely recommend this place.

Rebekah J — Google review

Love it!!! Definitely a great experience for a Dr.Pepper fan or really any soda fan! Did the taste testing and make your own soda exhibits that were so fun to do. Book in advance!! Great photo ops too and awesome gift shop.The virtual tour was kind of hard to follow and not really up to date with the museum, so it would be great if you could update it and not make it a video but audio only

Sabrina W — Google review

We enjoyed the museum. There was a lot of really neat stuff from all over the world. Some interactive exhibits. The science lab was fun! The snack shoppe was a great atmosphere.

Andrea F — Google review

This was a really neat place to visit. We loved the Make-a-Soda class. Some of the items in the gift shop are pretty expensive (a medium-sized puppy was $30) so beware, but overall, it was a cool experience for kids.

Mary M — Google review

Amazing museum! LOADS of history everywhere you turn, but if you're "A Pepper," it's a lot more interesting! There are also a couple of experiences to participate in for just a little extra $.There's an old fashioned soda bar where you can get a DP and/or ice cream float. Of course, there's also a gift shop. Really fun place!

Jenny L — Google review

A very interesting place to visit- no idea this even existed! We had a great time going through the building that had such history. This happens to be my youngest son's favorite drink. We enjoyed looking through the different eras of production of this American institution. We were glad to be there and of course go to the gift shop for souvenirs to bring back to California. A great family environment and one that we hope to visit again.

Angelita F — Google review

It was such a fun experience! Very reasonably priced. No long wait. We toured both buildings, main one has three floors. The history behind it all was very interesting. The gift was so cool with so many things to choose from. We purchased an ornament, cup, sticker, and a hat. We did also receive a free drink. At the end we also purchased a float! So good, and kiddos loved it too.

Misuki N — Google review

We were visiting family in Waco. My Dad and I both love Dr. Pepper and we wanted to check out the museum and the history of Dr pepper. It's $12 per person, kids 4 and under are free. Parking in the lot across the street from the museum is $10. The prices stated on Google maps says $10 but we paid $12. The lady that gave us our wrist bands told us that if you love in the county and have a library card, you can get free tickets for up to 6 people (she believes). The museum is okay but a lot of reading which isn't doable with small children in tow. They get too restless. They had some cool things showing on various televisions throughout and really neat decorations and memorabilia on display. This place is busy even on a weekday. We (5) were all more interested in the Dr pepper floats by the time we got to the second story. You can get a large float that comes in a souvenir cup for $8 and a small in a regular cup for $6. They have other ice cream available also. You can make tiny bottles of your choice for $10 per person but you have to sign up and there are time slots available. It's too much money by the end in my opinion. They do have nice, clean restrooms.

Ashley D — Google review

I love (and am slightly addicted to) Dr Pepper and made a special day trip from Dallas to Waco, just to go to the museum! The history is fascinating and I loved all the displays. The line for the free drink was super long and I'd packed my own bottle of Dr Pepper Cherry for the road, so I didn't wait in line. The Make a Soda and Taste a Soda were booked by the time I arrived, but it looked fun and interesting! There's a lot of exclusive items available in the small gift shop. I might have spent a small fortune 🤣

Kati H — Google review

Crazy busy during eclipse weekend but likely a lot easier when the city of Waco isn't packed for a special event. A line around the block in the morning but it cleared up later in the day and I was able to see some of the history of Doctor Pepper. (I've already been to the Pepsi pharmacy in New Bern NC.)I wouldn't say "I'm a Pepper" but I can understand why some people are. The museum has plenty of history of this iconic beverage and you can even buy up to make your own mixed soda or purchase a Doctor Pepper float.Gift shop was pretty good too but definitely not cheap. Worth it for the pop culture buff.

Bruce K — Google review

Dr Peppers Museum offers variety of exhibitions and informations regarding the history of the company and the famous drink.There were lots of interactive screens, videos, posters, and old machinery that were packed with lots of information.The museum had 3 floors which hosted different exhibitions raging from several parts of the world. Several elevators are available for ADA guest.Another building is located across the main museum where you can find the laboratory and restaurant. Once ticket purchase you can have a free small Dr Pepper drink at then end of your visit.Lots of opportunity to take photos around the museum.🅿️: 3 ADA parking is available right under the sign of the Dr Pepper.♿️✅: Restroom were accessible and low height mirror for wheelchair users. Very Clean!

ELODIE T — Google review

Having too much fun making my own soda today!!! 😍So much fun!!! Make your own flavored soda for $10!! You have 3 tries. Raspberry, lime and 7up combo is good :) you can ask for separate cups and mix and match on your own!! You can also get a free drink at the end or get $1 off menu items (get 2 scoops of ice cream for $4 or a root beer float for $5). Fun for kids and adults, good family activity to do if you're visiting!

Rita L — Google review

Lots of fun if you like to visit museums. Me and my husband decided to visit it and absolutely loved it. It was so much fun finding out how they bottled, what inspired them to start fizzy drinks and we absolutely loved the ads created old times to advertise Dr Pepper outside. They also have a make your own soda lab which we couldn’t make it on time but looked like so much fun. The best was they served hot Dr Pepper. It was so good.

Gayathri I — Google review

Worth your time if you are around Waco. It cost $10 for adults and children under 4 are free. Your ticket gets you a free drink at the end of the tour. The main building is 3 stories full of pictures, historic information, old machinery, and cool facts. Several of the room and exhibits have scan codes on them allowing for a “virtual tour experience”. Once you’re done with the main building you walk through the courtyard passing the gift shop over to the second building. Here they have more exhibits and the soda station where you get your free drink. If you make reservations in advance they have a few other hands on experiences for a price. The wait time for our free drink wasn’t bad at all. Pro tip…the DR Pepper candy in the drink line is cheaper than it is in the gift shop. The gift shop was small and really didn’t have a ton of stuff in there but still cool. I love DR Pepper so I thought this was pretty cool to see.

Clinton A — Google review

A cool little walk through with the entire history of Dr Pepper from beginning to present day!! When you buy the $10 general admission walk through you also get a hand made Dr Pepper at the end of the tour. I also recommend buying tickets in advance for the Dr Pepper tasting and the make your own soda experience. They usually are sold out by the day of so buying in advance is a good thing. Overall a really cool experience. $10 parking was available across the street from the museum.

J W — Google review

We really enjoyed our visit. There are lots of interesting marketing things to see, and the history is pretty cool. Value wise, I think the extra experiences are overpriced. We paid $30 for a quick 20 minute make your own soda. I think a fair value would be half or make general admission $15 and include the experience. I think it would also be cool to make a professional label instead of one you write in with a sharpie. That being said, the folks running the experience were super awesome and did an outstanding job. If you are in the area, I recommend stopping. Lots of good photo opportunities.

Edward S — Google review

$10 to enter per person. You get a voucher for a small Dr Pepper at the end or $1 off at the gift shop. Everything a Dr Pepper lover will enjoy. From the humble begins to present day, this is a cool place to visit. Lots of picture taking opportunities here. Some exhibits are hard not to touch as they state not to touch. A place to see after the Magnolia Silos in Waco.

Carlos G — Google review

This has been on our bucket list to visit for over 2yrs now, and we finally got to see it. We are a Dr. Pepper loving family, so we enjoyed every bit of it, especially the floats and different flavors they offered. Tickets were not expensive to enter, but there is paid parking across from the museum.

Kassandra M — Google review

Fun place, close parking on the street, and reasonable price to get in. Went with my family for a little outing and everyone seemed to enjoy the atmosphere. The reason I gave four stars is because you are given a bracelet at entry to receive a free drink at the end of seeing the museum. You pass a gift shop then a big area where drinks and shakes are made ( the bracelet is for a drink only ), well both the gift shop and drink area where unbelievably packed! We decided to pass up the drink and leave.

Sarah F — Google review

I’ve been a fan of Dr Pepper for more than 20 years now and I’m glad I got to visit Mecca! So cool to learn the history of not only my favorite drink but as an entrepreneur it was awesome to learn about the company!I was nervous that this wouldn’t be a good place for my kids but there was plenty of fun activities for them! I would definitely visit again the next time I find myself in Waco.

Ray D — Google review

It was a nice to see the history or Dr. Pepper. They even had cans and bottles from other countries. It cost $10 to get in but it also came with a voucher for a free fountain drink or a discount on a souvenir cup. They also had a penny machine where you can make a Dr. Pepper penny for $0.51. I recommend you go early so you can try their soda maker we went later in the day and it was already closed.

Gemini S — Google review

Met my brother and his family here so the kids can hang out. It was an okay museum, in my opinion. I feel like I could have received the same information online. I kind of expected to get more out of it. I thought there was going to be a lot of samples of everything Dr Pepper to try. It was really hot and congested there and getting there. It was an okay 1st time experience to say we've been. I probably wouldn't recommend going and won't be going back, but that's my opinion. My kids were really interested and my daughter loves Dr Pepper. The line for a free Dr Pepper was so long we just left.

Fileza H — Google review

Fun if you really like Dr. Pepper. Didn't find the exhibits incredibly interesting unless you are really into it. Maybe 30 minutes of content total, 12$ admission and free for 4 and under. You get a free drink with your ticket, no free tastings or anything like that but there are paid ones. Gift shop was also average, fine prices but not great selection especially in sizes, but most go up to XXXL. Worth if you LOVE Dr. Pepper.

PenguinhoFC O — Google review

4.4

(7238)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (190)

4.0

(1798)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (191)

300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701, USA

(254) 757-1024

25

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (192)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (193)

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (194)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (195)

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Botanical garden

Nature & Parks

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden is a 66-acre garden set on White Rock Lake with frequent concerts, special exhibits & classes. It is world-class and perfect for a relaxing day out.

This place is absolutely gorgeous! The plants, trees, and flowers are so beautiful and well kept. The statues are so pretty to look at and they make the garden seem more regal. My favorite things in the gardens had to be the waterfalls and water fountains. There’s also a great view of the lake and lots of great spots to picnic. I would definitely come back!

Aliyah D — Google review

It took my new fiance and mother to this beautiful place by recommendations from my sister. We thoroughly enjoyed it, the weather was pretty good for that day and there was plenty of things to look at and enjoy. We wish there were more water fountains available is the only thing and maybe some misting fans. Plenty of places to sit and enjoy the shade though and photo shoot opportunities. I give this place a four and a half Stars!!

Robert B — Google review

We enjoyed a delightful summer evening of music by the Coppertones at the Twilight Tuesday event. The gardens are lush and green. The beautifully landscaped flower beds are bursting in color. I highly recommend a visit!

Michael D — Google review

Lovely place to visit. Food is average from the place at the front of the gardens, didn’t eat at the other place. The woman at the ticket window was very kind and informative. The seat cushions were moist, as if they were still drying off from getting hit by sprinklers, but that was okay. Plenty of places to sit everywhere, and decent shade. Saw multiple bunnies and robins and squirrels. Also there were lots of bees but that’s to be expected. An absolutely beautiful place to picnic. The koi pond was my favorite part, as it was nice and shady. I definitely would recommend coming when it’s cooler.

Elisabeth — Google review

Been going here for the past two years and are members. Plenty of flowers and trees to see. Seeing the different blooms is fantastic. Easy to walk paths and plenty of places to sit. Children's garden is really nice but is an additional ticket.Easy to get to with two places to park. One of them is a parking garage. Place has good access for people in wheelchairs.

Paul P — Google review

If you like flowers, you’ll love the Arboretum. In Springtime the tulips and hyacinths are so gorgeous and plentiful. There are many other flowers at this time but those really catch your eye. In the Fall they have the biggest display of pumpkins I have ever seen. The grandchildren love running around and taking in all the beauty and exploring the property. Great place to visit, no matter the seasonal.

Carolyn M — Google review

I went there to celebrate my birthday recently and had a wonderful time! I love nature walks, so I really enjoyed it. Parking wasn't bad. The food is reasonably priced.This must really be a hot spot for quinceanera, prom and graduation photos! I will bring my daughter there for photo shoot this summer. It is also a great place for a day date! I enjoy taking photos of nature as well, so I had a field day with my camera! Enjoy the photos below!

Ms H — Google review

Beautiful Gardens! Huge amounts of space for kids and photos. Bring extra water because it does get hot fast and the breeze seem almost non existent. We will be returning for the fall/winter days for sure! (Discounted August day rates $3 and parking for $6)

Kylee S — Google review

As someone visiting from out of town, this place was on my list to check out and did not disappoint! It was beautiful with a nice variety of themes and flowers. The pumpkin village was also really neat. I would recommend if anyone else is coming for Dallas and looking for something to do, to check it out. Going in the morning is better if the weather is hot as there is a fair amount of areas in the sun, but there are also a good amount of shady areas as well, which were nice. Overall, it took me around 1.5-2 hours to go through everything with the exception of the children's area.

David R — Google review

My children and I visited the arboretum this afternoon to celebrate my son's birthday. The displays, fountains, gardens and views of White Rock lake are beautiful!!! Plenty of photo ops as well. It was extremely hot today, so I wore a hat to keep the sun off my face. I recommend you pack a snack/lunch and drinks, if you have little ones in order to save some money. It can get a bit pricey! I saw several families with their coolers and picnicking, there is plenty of space for that. I had a pecan chicken salad and a root beer float. The kids all had drinks. They really wanted smoothies, but they were all out. There are several locations to buy refreshments. They have several activities scheduled during the week and on the weekends. There is so much to see! I recommend you order your tickets online. We had a good time and plan to attend again during the holidays. ,👍👍

Matilda R — Google review

More cultivated than other arboretums I've visited. The plant labels are a little sparse in my personal opinion, but if you're not a plant fanatic it's a lovely place to stroll and get cute photos with the kids. Bear in mind there's going to be crowds if you go for an event like the pumpkin patch. Plenty of food options as well. LOTS of iconic spots for special event photos. That also means you'll need to plan your visit and come early if you want to get to the best spots without competing.

Erin W — Google review

I’m visiting here for Christmas lights and it was very pretty. They decorated the whole arboretum as a shining place and each section has themes. 12 nights of Christmas is the main idea and they display with amazing musics! It’s quite hard to get the tickets. if you planned to see night lights, it’s better to reserve at least a week in advance.

Nana — Google review

Beautiful and relaxing gardens east of Dallas. The horticulturists just planted 500,000 bulbs which are blooming!The are miles of walking paths featuring many water fountains and seating areas. This garden is on White Rock Lake! It’s so peaceful and calming.This is a beautiful garden & arboretum. I recommend paying it a visit!

Sara G — Google review

There could not be a more beautiful backdrop to an outdoor event than the Dallas Arboretum. I enjoyed live music, beautiful lake views, and the company of good friends! Pack your snacks, folding chairs and blankets for the most unforgettable evenings this summer!I can’t wait to return for date night!

Ms.B — Google review

Bring your walking shoes and a compass. Loved the winding complex trails and fantastic laying and landscaping throughout. Can I live here?The volunteers I came across were really lovely. I went solo & without me asking they offered to take my pic as I was struggling to selfie. Also they were super informative.

Cisme A — Google review

Beautifully kept gardens, water features, paved walkways with lots of room to roam. Even some of the most popular areas weren't crowded. A great way to spend an afternoon. I encourage you to bring drinks and maybe a picnic lunch and a blanket to take advantage of the beautiful area to just relax and enjoy.

Jan C — Google review

So many picturesque spots, and it was way bigger than I thought it was going to be which I loved. We got a lot of steps in too! The chicken salad sandwich at lunch was delicious and make sure you check out the tasting pavilion by white rock lake area. They make delicious recipes for you to try each week. By the end of our visit, we left with a membership for two because your tickets get to go towards the membership. Can’t wait to come back very soon for the concerts and events!

Katharine H — Google review

Beautiful walk. Kid area was nice. A couple spots for water play in the kid area, my kiddo was upset I didn't bring extra clothes so she could get wet. So bring extra clothes and avoid the melt downs. The gardens were beautiful. Plenty of photo ops, places to rest, and water mist stations.

Denise A — Google review

I visited during summer, the heat was palpable, but the shaded areas and water stations provided a welcomed respite, enabling us to comfortably explore. While some garden patches felt the strain of summer, the dedication of the gardeners was evident in their relentless efforts to keep the environment alive and flourishing.The staff were notably outstanding. Their friendly demeanor and readiness to assist significantly enhanced our visit. My wife and I thoroughly enjoyed our time, and the picturesque grassy area by the lake left us yearning to return with a picnic basket in tow. I’m keen to witness the arboretum’s transformation across various seasons.For those considering a visit during the summer months, I’d advise procuring tickets and parking ahead of time. And don’t forget to wear a hat and hydrate!

Sergio G — Google review

Beautiful garden!! Flowers were still blooming in early October when we visited. The pumpkin patch was decorated nicely with snoopy characters throughout the garden. Saw a couple of the trending pumpkin houses as well! You can purchase different sized pumpkins on your way out. They also have seasonal drinks to try at the cafe. Great for groups and couples!!

Katlynn N — Google review

I've visited here several times over the years. I love coming for the Autumn at the Arboretum event. The fall foliage is beautiful! I love the pumpkin displays as well. We visited the last weekend of the event, so there weren't as many pumpkins out. I suggest if you visit for this event specifically come earlier in the fall, like early to mid-October.

Carina J — Google review

We went to the Holiday at the Arboretum celebration. It was amazing the work they put into the 12 days of Christmas scenes. As you walk around the park, you'll come across each one. They look like carousels, and they were moving presentations of each step. The holiday village was fun for kids. The historical house was beautiful with all the Christmas trees and the 600 Nutcrackers. I'd love to go back and see it at night!

Polly D — Google review

What an absolutely beautiful place to visit. The weather was perfect and the variety of blooming flowers was perfect for this time of year. The cherry blossoms were stunning! I look forward to a visit in the spring when the trees regain their leaves!

Lathan C — Google review

One of the most beautiful botanical gardens I’ve seen in the world. Not as many flowers as other places, but it’s laid out nicely and isn’t crowded. The children’s section is like a children’s museum with lots of info and exhibits and is just as entertaining for adults.

Rajib M — Google review

The best thing that you can find in Dallas if you want to go with your loved one to experience peace and garden. You can spend 2 hrs to almost a whole day here depending on your leisure, and also, most of the things you can do is have a photo shoot and spend precious time observing different types of flowers. The only downside is the parking price is almost the same as the ticket price, which they should review. Otherwise, this is the place where you can get a good view of a white rock lake.

Dhrumil A — Google review

I've been to Arboretums and Botanical Gardens all over the Country and this one is a 10/10 and might be my favorite. Was so happy to see so many things blooming in the summer. It is *very hot* so we arrived right around opening and left before noon. Was happy to have plenty of shaded areas to keep somewhat cool.Had a wonderful time walking around and taking pictures of all of the gorgeous blooms.Definitely do not miss if you are visiting Dallas. Worth the visit!Google Maps brought us to the 3rd Entrance / Parking garage which has a convenient tunnel to the entrance and no lines at the gate.

Stephanie W — Google review

Beautiful views, lovely walking paths, great time with friends and family.My husband and I are in town visiting and we took a trip to the Arboretum. We spent a few hours walking around and enjoying the scenery and each other's company. Pricing was decent and we had a great time. Everything was clean and they have beautiful views of the lake.

Ricci T — Google review

Very cool. Lots of interactions with nature and science. Definitely geared towards 3 to 7 ages and up if interested in earth science. The crew was great on putting on interesting and informative.. come prepared to spend all day

Boomer M — Google review

Family centered, amazing, and wanting to come back over and over again. It is one of the most beautiful Christmas light displays in North Texas 😍. It is also gorgeous in spring and fall. You will be blessed with flowers and the scents. When you walk around the arboretum, you are surprised at how wonderful the whole garden is. Not only are you seeing, but you are also hearing and smelling the mother nature. There are a total of 12 themes. It is a family Christmas event, so bring your camera 📷. From small toddlers to loving grandparents, everyone is happy to be here. Make sure to wear warm clothes, because it gets cold at night. Avoid weekend nights because it gets extremely busy. It is also cheaper during weekday nights. Parking #4 is located on the opposite side of the arboretum. With the security personnel around everywhere, you and your family should feel safe. The only downside is the unbearable traffic on 635.

Chang C — Google review

Amazing! Beautiful grounds. We really enjoyed walking through all the well maintained gardens. Totally GEM. The rose garden needed some attention. I was somewhat surprised at the price for parking. $15.00. A bit on the high side.

Mike M — Google review

This was an amazing experience. It is 100% kid and family friendly. The atmosphere is as relaxing as it gets. We went on a very busy weekend and there's so much space for people to move around, it didn't feel busy. There's a wonderfully educational kids center with a two story treehouse and a boardwalk in the tops of the trees that was so fun. The discovery center teaches about the different souls in our states, plants that grow, animals that live here, and even our atmosphere. You will learn so much without even trying. And the tulips were blooming all over the place. Just beds and beds of beautiful, eye catching color! Do not miss this place! The entrance fee is so much lower than nearby attractions and, I think, a much better deal. Look to spend at least a couple hours here.

T. J — Google review

One of the must visit places to visit in Dallas if you are a nature lover. The whole tour should take about 4 hours or so. There are multiple restrooms and water fountains and it's a nice place to go for a picnic.There is ample parking just across the street and if you are parked at the lower level LL2 Red level, you can walk through the underground tunnel from the parking lot to the Arboretum Entrance.

Kiran P — Google review

3.9.24 I'm from CT, and this was my favorite thing to see and do in Dallas after visiting for a week. The entrance and parking lot is huge, but note, it does fill up. I went just as they opened so easy in and no lines. The grounds are immaculate, tidy, well maintained, and beautiful. If you're into photography, walking, enjoying nature, or the outdoors, you must stop here. Please note that you can buy tixs in advance. You can also bring in your own picnic, snacks, and waters, BUT there are places to buy food and drinks too on the premises. I went during Tulip season, hence my photos. You'll also find lots of benches, a koi pond, young children's area, wedding banquet area, fountains, "living" wall which has real plants growing... it's just all awesome.

Margaret H — Google review

I was surprised with the new cover parking lot opposite of arboretum, there is underground tunnel to get to entrance. The settings of the entrance were really awesome and every corner has beautiful colors of spring. I also noticed there tables and chairs for picnic. Was sitting at one of the picnic pavilion and listening to piano playing. Lots of things going, was a very pleasant visit.

Angie N — Google review

We went at the holidays and it was magical! From the 12 Days of Christmas displays to the interactive holiday town. This is a great destination for the entire family! They have a cute wooden ornament for your tree to remember your visit. Highly recommend and I hope to go again!

Jenn T — Google review

Visiting the Dallas Arboretum with my students was an incredible experience. The moment we arrived, we were greeted by a stunning display of colors and fragrances across the 66 acres of beautifully maintained gardens.The Sunken Garden and Crape Myrtle Allee were particularly breathtaking, showcasing diverse plant species and floral arrangements.What I love about the Dallas Arboretum is its versatility. It's perfect for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a lovely outdoor experience. The vast grounds allow for leisurely strolls, picnics, and exploration. The arboretum also serves as a stunning backdrop for professional photography, with many opportunities for engagement photos, family portraits, and graduation pictures.I highly recommend the Dallas Arboretum to anyone in the area. Whether you're a nature lover or simply looking for a beautiful setting to spend time with loved ones, this place has something for everyone. Take the time to explore and immerse yourself in this remarkable destination.

Amy N — Google review

The Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens is a great way to spend a half day. The gardens are amazing and change for the seasons. The 100,000 tulips in spring are a must see. The rest of the year boasts beautiful flowers and blooming trees as well as a special Santa’s Village and the 12 days of Christmas at the end of the year.

James R — Google review

Beautiful place to visit near the central part of Dallas. Although it’s not really an arboretum—it’s more of a well manicured garden—it’s a great escape from the city and right next to the peaceful White Rock Lake. They have seasonal themes/events, including the current “Dallas Blooms,” which is definitely worth seeing. If you live nearby, the annual membership pays for itself pretty quickly. They participate in the reciprocal admissions program, which means you can use your membership to get into hundreds of gardens across the US (including the one in Fort Worth—also worth a trip).Also, be sure to get the soft pretzels when you visit! 🥨

Khalid M — Google review

Fantastic place to spend the day with family, alone, friends or kids. Lots of blooming spring flowers. There is a special area for kids. There are counters showing different kind of rocks and fossils. There is 20 min show for kids, water fountains, wetland areas, vegetable garden, fruits garden and various other biomes to observe. There is a skywalk and a restaurant too within the area.Overall a good place to spend a whole day. A picnic area overlooking the white rock lake is beautiful! Coming back again for sure!

Rinku K — Google review

Absolutely superb!! My wife and I visited here for the first time, and we were blown away by how scenic and beautiful everything is. Our favorite thing in the DFW so far. Would highly recommend!

Patrick Z — Google review

First time going and I absolutely loved it. I took my fiancee as part of her birthday weekend and we had an awesome time. The displays are absolutely beautiful and if you take your time you can spend a good 3 or 4 hours there. There were a ton of people but parking was painless and once we got in the gates there was plenty of room and didnt feel crowded. I will definitely come back in the fall.

Sean S — Google review

Perfect place to have a picnic date or take iconic photos. Was looking for a park to walk and decided to visit Dallas Arboretum instead. Quiet getaway with amenities. They have restaurants, an area with hammocks to relax, multiple event spaces and the garden itself is a site to see! Massive amount of species all labeled. Very well kept. This is excellent for nature enthusiasts.

Janai S — Google review

Our flight was canceled so we decided to visit here. We love this place. Impressed with picturesque view and flowers. The white rock lake unfortunately is outside the garden . We can see the view ! Great blooming flowers! Another garden I visited thy that has the similar qualities is Huntington Botanical Garden in Pasadena, California.

Janet R — Google review

Do you like NATURE? Do you care for consciously cultivated urban gardens? Do you have kids that need to get outside in a safe, relatively contained, but aesthetically pleasing space? GO TO THE ARBORETUM. We love it. It's affordable, and worth the drive every time.

Mia M — Google review

Fantastic gardens. Great way to spend half a day outdoors walking through a beautiful park-like setting with interesting plants, birds, flowers, and trees around every corner. Could spend all day there just taking iPhone pix of everything! Highly recommend (if this is your type of thing).

Hiren P — Google review

4.7

(23164)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (199)

4.5

(5901)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (200)

8525 Garland Rd, Dallas, TX 75218, USA

(214) 515-6615

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26

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

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History museum

The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza is a repository of information about the assassination of President John F. Kennedy, which took place in its very building. The museum contains artifacts and exhibits that explore the life and death of JFK, as well as the various conspiracy theories surrounding his demise.

Historic museum! It tells a great story about the assassination of JFK! It really provides thorough explanations and narratives and sets up the actual location of the gunman. The surrounds are also nice to explore. I’d recommend arriving thirty mins before your appointed museum ticket time to check out the X spots and take photos. I recommend the earliest time for museum as it is nice and quiet! There are lots of tourists!Parking is $12 for all day basically. Tickets are only purchased online so be sure to buy it online beforehand!

Max C — Google review

It’s a sad place I have to say, you’ll find a lot of information of the sad event by either watching some short movies/documentaries or by walking the museum and reading the information and seeing the picture. There are two floors, the upper floor mainly has the view of the Elm street and the surrounding and different places where you can watch movies about the incident. It’s mostly like a big hall compared to the main floor where you can observe some exponats. At the time of my visit, there were many people, we had to wait in line a little , however, it went by pretty quick. The ticket to enter was $18 for adult.

Diana A — Google review

Comprehensive view of the events leading up and following the JFK assignation. The museum was very engaging and really did a good job of portraying the feelings of a city and country that had lost its President. Would strongly recommend a visit.

Tony C — Google review

It is an impressive museum and a great way to interact with modern American history. It truly allows for a greater understanding of the events of that day, and of American history at large. I highly recommend reserving tickets in advance, because there can be a lengthy wait.

Sarah — Google review

This museum is well planned. The displays are professional looking. They focus mainly on the assassination. However, there are all of two panels on the conspiracy theories, which I think deserve more attention. There are literally thousands of documents citing evidence on this topic. That was an unfortunate choice. Staff were very friendly, and the gift shop has a nice assortment of products. Great experience! It's my third time to visit.

Mark C — Google review

It was too crowded on. Weekday at 1pm. Hardly had space to stand and read the exhibits. I guess it was because of the SC2022 crowed.The good - informative, good insights, exhibits and information, also it was an actual side gave another perspective.The bad - writings were too long to stand and read, some people can't stand for hours just to read the material. It was a good idea to show some of the videos, those were good but the text was bit too much. Could be replaced with audio guides.Parking - paid (I guess it was $10)Ticket price - $18 for adults and we had a 5 years kid with us, they charged $14 (youth). I reminded them that he is 5 years and she re adjusted the price.

Abeer M — Google review

Great museum. Highly recommend if you want to learn about the assassination of JFK. Information is well presented and very educational. I really enjoyed watching all the video presentations too. It took me just over 2.5 hours to go through everything and I love that with timed entry they don’t overcrowd the museum.

M O — Google review

Insightful and somber experience. Detailed history of JFK and the events. The view from the window added a poignant touch. Recommended for those interested in history and reflection.

Aleen J — Google review

Story telling Museum of JFK assassination. Lots of reading is required to have fun, though. It was an inspiring place for me since I love histories

Rae ( — Google review

If you are a fan of history, you will like this museum. It is a great museum, but it’s also about of history. It’s kind of strange being in the building, knowing what took place in the location l, but that’s what makes it great. Looking out the windows of the sixth floor makes you feel like you are looking into the past. No matter what you think about what happened that day, it is a nice museum that is etched in America history.

The C — Google review

I would have rated it a 5 but the guy in the booth outside was not professional at all. Acted like he was ready to go. Be sure to have exact change to park. The ladies inside the museum were nice though. Nice experience overall.

Bee — Google review

Upon confirming my trip to Dallas I was most excited about visiting this museum and it definitely did not disappoint. Obviously the historical significance alone would be worth the visit but the educational aspect of the museum is spot on and really helps paint the full picture of the events that led up to the assassination, what transpired after, and who may have had a motive to kill JFK. I would plan on spending at least 90 minutes here to truly experience everything this awesome museum has to offer.

Andrew B — Google review

The Sixth Floor Museum located in Downtown Dallas is a very interesting museum that provides a lot of information of John F. Kennedy ranging from when he was born to the conspiracy theories after he died. There are a few places around that will show video of the assassination and the aftermath. I think it's very informative and a fun time for anyone who is interested in Dallas history or the Kennedy family. I do wish that the line for tickets and to be let in after buying tickets could be faster but I understand that they probably don't want it to be too crowded as certain areas were crowded.

Sears C — Google review

Took my boyfriend here for his birthday the other day. We’ve talked about going for years now. We’re both from Dallas yet have never been. I’m so glad we finally went! It’s a self guided/paced tour which is absolutely perfect. It can take quite some time to read through everything and watch all the videos, but definitely worth it if you want the full effect. There was just so much to see and learn. Even if you think you know everything about Kennedys death, once you go here, you realize you really don’t. It’s amazing. It’s a part of history, and it’s amazing to be in an area where history, insanely sad history, took place. It definitely makes you feel lots of emotions. So glad they’ve made the building into a museum and I hope all who get the chance can tour it! It’s well worth it.

Taylor H — Google review

We were able to take a few hours away from conference to visit the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza to learn about the historical tragic day of JFK's assassination. Excellent Museum. Highly recommend to purchase your tickets on line to guarantee your admission.

Michael H — Google review

Great museum, lots of historical information on the tragic day of JFK's death. It was very busy on the weekend. The building has great views of Downtown Dallas and surrounding areas. I would recommend you visit if you like history.

Stanley M — Google review

I really wasn't expecting this museum to be as crowded as it was. I could imagine the crowds during peak tourist season. They do a ticket by the hour type of system. We did not buy ahead but at 2:15 (on a Thursday) we were still able to slide into the 2pm entrance time. The queue looks long but they allow about 15 people into the elevator every 10 minutes or so the displays can be quite busy with people reading. You don't have to stay in line so if there is a bottleneck you can skip around. I honestly don't think I learned anything new since I've read several books about Kennedy. But it was good to see so many young people there probably learning the details for the first time. Also maybe foreigners. Worth the visit. It was expensive at $25 each. If you struggle to stand it walk for a while there are some benches in the display area but not many. Across the street is the Grassy Knoll you can go to.

Cindy R — Google review

Amazing place and very informative.The entry fee is reasonable too at $25 for an adult.The museum takes you through the build up to the event from JFK's election right through to the investigations afterwards in lots of detail, including the many conspiracy theories.It takes around 2hrs to do the self guided tour so it's a reasonable amount of time and it was quite busy on a Saturday morning.The shop is quite pricey too so be warned - and not everything has a price on it!

Dave ( — Google review

Amazing tour! Very detailed information that takes you from JFKs early life, through his presidency, and then the assassination. The tour was very organized as they take limited groups up to the 6th floor, and then you can wander through at your own pace.

Dave C — Google review

I visited the Sixth Floor Museum on a recent visit to Dallas and was very impressed. There’s a paid parking lot next door which was super convenient. The museum isn’t huge and there were a lot of people navigating it. Although busy, we were still able to see everything that we wanted to. The museum was laid out really well. It allows you to really visualize what took place and where. If you ever have a chance to visit, you won’t be disappointed. It’s a great learning opportunity as well.

Alicia M — Google review

This museum does a wonderful job of celebrating the life of JFK and his impact on America, while providing an honest account of the tragic events surrounding the assassination of President Kennedy. They also do not shy away from decades of conspiracy theories and encourage visitors to draw their own conclusions. There's plenty of genuine artifacts, detailed photos and drawings, and personal accounts from people who directly interacted with the President. The building has been meticulously maintained and is very clean. There is a gift shop for souvenirs. If you enjoy learning more about the history of our country, this is a highly recommended stop! Pro-tip: There's plenty of parking at $10 a car, and tickets can be purchased beforehand to speed the entry process.

Colin B — Google review

What an amazing museum. Everything was done well, from the early part of Kennedy's presidency, to the lead-up to his assassination, to the hectic day itself, and the investigation and conspiracies after. The museum doesn't seem to take sides on what it thinks happened, but reports the facts as-is.Taking a walk outside afterwards brings it all home, and the Sixth Floor website has a helpful (if sparse) online guide for when you walk around the assassination spot.The only negative was that it was fairly pricey for a museum of its size, but I would have no problem paying it again.

David E — Google review

Visited on a Friday and it was possible to get right in buying a ticket at the counter. If you paid the tickets in advance you got in seconds before those without tickets. Maybe it’s an advantage in weekends 🤷🏼‍♂️Everything is very detailed but it’s not a guided tour. You read, look and watch at your own pace and it got screens a small movie setup and much more. The actual window from where Lee H Oswald fired the shots is behind glass but you are VERY close. Amazing and I got goosebumps by looking out the window right next to where it all happened. When you done the museum go down on the street to see the X on the street where JFK got shot. No ticket needed for that part.

René G — Google review

This is a must see in Dallas. Right across from the Grassy Knoll. The exhibits were interesting and lots of historical context was provided for the JFK assassination.It is a lot of reading but they do a good job mixing it up with videos, models and displays. I think it could get crowded on weekends and holidays so I’d be sure to buy tickets in advance.

Tyson D — Google review

We really enjoyed the museum! It did a great job of covering JFK’s visit to Texas as part of his reelection campaign, the day in Dallas, and the assassination. There was plenty of focus on Oswald but they also provided information on other theories related to the killing. This was a great way to connect to an important part of American history.I gave 4 stars because of the staff. To a person, they were unfriendly and gave the impression that they were bothered by the visitors. Thankfully, the museum can be enjoyed with minimal contact with them.

Jeffrey H — Google review

A very complete story of the JFK assassination occupying the spot where the alleged shooter (Oswald) did his 'dirty deed' from. Here, in addition to the story panels and films you can watch telling the story you can look out the same windows Oswald would have shot from down at the street below. The space can get crowded but you do not need to view the panels in order. If you find a line upon exiting the elevator on the 6th floor you can turn left to view the exhibit in reverse. Afterwards be sure to go outside to the street to look for the second 'X' in the road marking where Kennedy was killed

Rob H — Google review

Book online for timed entry which is a few dollars less than buying at booth. Went around 1pm on Friday and it was rather busy. Museum definitely worth making a 1-1.5h visit to learn about this tragic piece of history.

Jenn L — Google review

We opted not to do the tour due to time constraints, but we still wanted to check out the gift shop. Unfortunately, they make you pay to take the tour to get to the gift shop, so we passed on that as well. Very interesting business model. Instead, we explored Dealey plaza and took some photos before leaving.

Dakota T — Google review

What an experience I just got here..It is a lifetime experience, trust me you should visit the same and experience the history.Please reserve your ticket inside for smooth walkin.You will go through the entire journey of Mr.Kennedy from his childhood for being Mr. PRESIDENT.They have movie room too where you can watch all his video and conspiracy theories about the assassination.

PRRATEEK C — Google review

Very impressive visit because it has a very comprehensive view on the incident and it provides various angles on the incident as well! Highly recommend to everyone who loves to learn more on this history, not just the incident itself, but also the investigation and analysis at the end.

Heidi — Google review

4.6

(9514)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (214)

4.5

(9373)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (215)

411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202, USA

(214) 747-6660

27

Six Flags Over Texas

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Theme park

Water & Amusem*nt Parks

Six Flags Over Texas is the perfect place for a family-friendly amusem*nt park trip. With over 50 rides and activities, there's something for everyone to enjoy. Plus, live bands and family-oriented shows make it an unforgettable experience.

Six Flags is always a great place to take the family. Even though we’ve been to many haunted houses throughout the years and many theme parks, we always enjoy Six Flags over Texas in Arlington. Seems like they still have their stuff together even though we have not been back since Covid began in 2020 the prices for the season passes are quite a bit more than what we remember than being yet. Everything has gone up due to inflation. We went to almost all of the haunted houses and they are still on point. I love how when they get something right they do not try to overdo it, they said safe boundaries to where you can take the whole family and are very creative in their execution. Well done Six Flags well done. Even though I am afraid to ride roller coasters, I still ride the big ones like the Texas giant, the Titan, Batman, and Mr. freeze. It just doesn’t seem like a theme park without them anymore.

Brian A — Google review

It was awesome, thrilling experience. It is well maintained, sanitized, neat and clean. All Covid safety measures being followed. Every ride experience was thrilling, only thing is, we need to wait for minimum half an hour for every ride otherwise its good

Satnam S — Google review

Six Flags over Texas is a great place to spend the day. Whether you have younger kids or you are just out for a date, this place truly has something for everyone. The thrill rides are amazing, the kids area is super fun, and the live shows will even keep those who are uninterested in rides entertained. Extra worth the trip during the holiday season.

Melissa H — Google review

We went on Wednesday, and aside from the wait time to get into the amusem*nt park's parking lot, we didn't experience any ling wait times. We got in quickly, got around easily, and actually got to ride the front row on 3 main roller coasters because there was hardly any wait at all. All of our favorite roller coasters were ALL open and operating as they should, which was awesome considering that oftentimes, there's usually 1 or more of our favorite rides closed. But overall, we had a wonderful time! It was also our very first time experiencing the Derrick Oil observation deck 300ft above! (that was the very first time I ever saw it open) The Diamond pass-season pass that includes a souvenir cup with free refills all season long are honestly worth every dollar, after we were worn out from being around Six Flags for 5 hours, we went down the road to Hurricane Harbor for the rest of the day.

Angelica O — Google review

It's been over 20 years since I've been to Six Flags so I was so excited to return with my children. They have something for everyone. My kids range from 18-2 and they all had fun. As always the lines were super long but the weather was perfect so we could not complain a bit. All of the workers we encountered were very friendly. I was so thankful they had designated smoking areas but everytime I went to one there were quite a few people smoking weed with kids running all around. The food was reasonably price. The cups for 17.99 were worth it with unlimited refills for the day and the popcorn buckets had $.99 refills all day. My daughter was too excited when she saw Tweety bird and we got some cute pics. There were a few rides that I was excited to get on but they were closed (Raging Rapids, Log ride, The Titan). The bathrooms were clean unlike I remember as a teenager. There were people in each bathroom cleaning as people went in and out. I'm sure we'll be getting season passes for my 4 kids soon. I can't wait to go back and make more memories with my family.

T C — Google review

Did 11 out of 15 rides on the same day with the Flash Pass; I ordered the platinum one (210$ a day) as I wanted to make sure I complete as many rides as I can since I'm not from around here and I don't know when I'll be back again; best decision I've ever made.I was a bit sad that "the joker" was closed, as it was one of my targets; it was windy so the ride was closed for the safety of everyone.Overall the place is huge and is great for everybody, adults and kids. The lines are organized, and none was pushing/shoving or trying to get in front - great atmosphere.My favorite ride was the Superman, and even though Mr. Freeze and The Texas Giant are considered more thrilling, something about the drop in Superman was super extreme; I really liked it!

Meir G — Google review

Awesome experience. Almost every attraction is very fun.I don't give it 5 stars because the batman and MrFreeze Rollercoaster were out of service.The one I dont recommend is the snake one near the entrance, is more an injury hazard than fun, it was the one with the slowest line and we all came out beaten up with neck pain and is not even that fun.The stars from the park are The Texan Giant and Titan, the last one being the fastest Rollercoaster I have been in my life, is a must if you go to the park.

Ricardo M — Google review

I love Sixflags, but they have serious problems when you buy the tickets using Google Pay. I bought the tickets and the transaction was pending but it didn't go through, they gave me the money back but I had to call them to be sure the transaction wasn't confirmed and it took hours to communicate with them. The park has amazing roller coasters! Aquaman is great! I went during the flight fest on Saturday and it was very good even though the park was busy

Laura A — Google review

Pretty Nice park. However being from Ohio Cedar Point is just pretty hard to beat. This park is very nice but lacking when it comes to rides and roller coasters. If you ever go to Cedar point in Sandusky Ohio, you’ll know what I mean. I do like the way this six flags park is laid out & the landscaping is attractive. The entrance to the park was very littered and needs attention ASAP. The park food is super pricey $$ but I guess everything is now. Overall we had fun.

Matt H — Google review

It was a cloudy day this day, we visited for the children birthday and with children, you can't do much because they're unable to ride most of the rides, which half of the park was closed on November 18th due to a special 💙 event for Thanksgiving and Christmas. The children had a ball on this day it was their birthdays 🎂 🥳 🎉 🎈 🎁 🎊 ‼️ I do recommend visiting the park grounds, the rides are out of this world 🌎. If you are a thrill seeker than you are in for a ride. I wasn't able to obtain good footage of every ride but the grounds are spectacular 👌🏾 ✨️ 🙌🏾 😉 😎.

Antonio ( — Google review

I’m a coaster fanatic and this was on my list of theme parks that I hadn’t visited. I was blown away at how clean and mostly maintained the park is. The ride staff are very much concentrating on guest safety especially in the 95 degree Dallas area weather. I loved all the DC references and all those rides were thrilling and body rearranging lol. Ride mister freeze. That was a ride I’ll never forget.

Christopher M — Google review

I enjoyed the afternoon hanging out with my kids. The lines were a bit long but that's normal during Spring Break. The food was pretty good. It was worth the price and I can't wait to go again

Matilda R — Google review

29 years old, and this was my first time to Six Flags.I got to enjoy this experience with my wife, kids, and other Family. It turns out my oldest daughter is just as much a roller coaster rider as I am!It was a spectacular experience for us all, and we are very glad we chose to spend our Thanksgiving together here.The park had so much for everyone to enjoy, but do be prepared to do some walking, because this place is HUGE!I really respect that they offer a Military discount as well, thank you.We will be back!

Shane S — Google review

You can't go wrong with six flags!!! I go mostly on weekdays and Saturdays no line. Restrooms are clean and the food is fresh. We feel very safe walking in.

Mendy — Google review

It was raining but I still had a blast! Just like old times! This may show my age but I have visited six flags in Arlington since I was 5 back in the 80's. Loved the new rides but mini mine train is just a memory jurker for me!

Sonjia C — Google review

If you are dare to... go six flags!However, there are long lines for all the rides on average 1hr++I would recommend going early, like at the opening, and if you have season pass, maybe do a couple and leave rest for next time. Or you'll be tired not from the fun but waiting in the lines ... o yea, if money is not a problem, Flash Pass does exist!

Adnan Y — Google review

I read so many reviews trying to decide if Six Flags was worth our time & money because it had been over 12yrs since our last visit. There were so many bad reviews that we almost didn’t go. I’m so HAPPY we took a chance and went. Our boys 11yrs old and 16yrs old had a blast. We went on Sunday March 17th. We arrived about 10:50am. Parking was good, no issues. The lines to get in were starting to get crowded but they moved quickly. We were able to move through the lines for the rides so much faster than expected but as the day went on, the lines grew as more people arrived. Most of the rides were up & running. A few rides started a-little later in the morning.The park was clean. We observed workers cleaning throughout the day. The staff we spoke to were very helpful & friendly..the park looked better than we expected based on some of the reviews we had read prior to our visit. The gift shops had a good selection.The dining passes are definitely worth the money. The taste of the food & drinks were good. Overall our experience was Awesome!

Kristi A — Google review

I have always wanted to visit this flagship of the Six Flags properties. It did not disappoint!! The coasters rocked! Park was clean and staff was friendly and helpful. The photo package didn't work well on our visit but we got a few. Bottom line, we went for the coasters and park delivered! Mr. Freeze was favorite for certain! Texas Giant hands down a great ride!

Woodie A — Google review

It was a great spot to see the eclipse they had everything down to a t. Very clean pleasurable staff was on point never seen dispatch so fast Good job guys. Hopefully my group MCN (melanin coaster network) will pay you and your park a visit one day or ask for us will come?

Charles D — Google review

It was a great time for the kids. They really enjoyed the rides. They also loved the ice cream with the fish shaped cone.

Phillip I — Google review

I thought a saw a Putty Cat 🐈! Park was awesome, make sure you get there early so you can make it on all of the rides. Mr. Freeze 🥶 was the highlight for me although my girlfriend said her legs were shaking after Titan 🤣. Has way better rides then the Six Flags over Georgia!

Erik T — Google review

We went mid week, which was great. We rode most rides twice before they got too crowded. We didn't get to a lot of the new rides in Gotham city, but we had enough fun in the other parts.The park was clean, the staff was friendly, and they gave free waters at all the refill stations. For an amusem*nt park, this was just big enough you didn't feel so crowded and just small enough that you could easily get from place to place.

Sharen — Google review

We have been coming to Six Flags with our kids for the last three years. Absolutely love this park. There is something for everyone. Our youngest can’t quite make the big coasters yet, but she loves the Shockwave. Got to ride ten times in a row with her yesterday. The team members at this park are consistently great.

K-D R — Google review

Very fun. Had a great time with the family. Not overly crowded. We went during the week. Just didn’t realize they closed at 6pm all week.

Michelle V — Google review

The kids always love going. We have season passes. The food is pricey, to me anyways. The parking is good. The staff are nice. The lines are different each time but always at least a small wait.

Jane K — Google review

The ride line up here is severely lacking. The workers have no true motivation and some of the park is run down. The food is subpar at best. It could definitely use a face lift. We went over 2 days and all of the rides were not open to experience. And I'm not just talking water rides, actual regular rides. Ultimately not worth the price you pay to go, but still a neat spot.

Stephanie B — Google review

This theme park really exceeded my expectations for both the rides and the park itself!It's really big we actually spent 8 hours and were not able to go on every rideThey have some amazing coasters and other rides which are truly entertainingAlso there's a whole area just for kids with rides for them so it's a really good place to go with your entire familyI thought the price was a little high and almost $85 p/p plus you have to consider food and beverages unless you take your own but other than that I would say it's one of America's greatest theme parks

Edgardo J — Google review

So... I suppose i agree this is one of the lowest ranking of the Six Flags all over the country. Sure, there's "something for everyone", but when someone thinks of Six Flags, they think of Loop-de-loop rollercoasters🎢 - of which this park has 3... Kind of. If you count the big circle, i guess more.While it does have one of the oldest, with Shock Wave, it doesn't really come across as "cool and vintage", it comes across as more " outdated and obviously not investing into new, modern rollercoasters."If you're visiting all the Six Flags, of course you have to visit this one, which apparently is the "original one". But i visited for one day, on the slowest day of the week and i didn't even stay until closing because i got bored after about 3 hours.Several rides were closed, due to maintenance.The reason why this park loses 2 stars is because of the egregiously high prices of food, snacks, and drinks. Sure, this is the case across the rest of the parks, but there's at least good reason to go to other parks. In this park, you just end up having a mediocre "fun time" along with the outrageously high cost of food.Passes were cheaper than other parks, but that was probably from the day of the week and the season. The choices of season passes were pretty terrible. The cheapest one, which does not include the parking pass, is 79.99.Unfortunately, the bottom line, is that this park does not give enough of the experience for "Six Flags", and you'll end up spending a little too much, for not enough.

Ιερώνυμος ( — Google review

Love six flags has good rides and scary rides had trouble finding bathrooms though and almost peed myself about 3 times loved one place that had beef nachos delicious also had good lemonade

Tayten S — Google review

We had such a great time I didn't realize how big it was. I suggest if your coming here you need at least 2 day to see the entire park. There is no way you can go on every ride and see everything in one day. We have such an amazing time even thought the park is old it doesn't feel that way like Disney in Anehiem California. If you like roller coasters this is the place to go. Surprising how long the lines were for December though I suggest getting the fast passing you can afford it. This park is definitely suitable for small children as well there is plenty to do for the entire family.

Trevor P — Google review

This is an older park and there are some areas that show it. I visited in April so very light crowd. Some HS day trips. A large choice of rollercoasters. But the only live shows was not real elaborate. Twenty minutes sing and dance at a open pavilion. And a mariachi band.

Steve S — Google review

Where do I begin?… We showed up at opening on a Tuesday at 11am with zero lines. Get up to Mr. freeze and walk right to front just for the ride to shut down for technical difficulties. Normally I wouldn’t care. We went to Batman with no wait. Then the Joker went down for issues, then Cat Woman went down. One after another rides went down. When Mr Freeze came back up we went back as it said no wait..after 1 hour of waiting in line with only one train going, the app still showed 0 min wait. I get there are always issues with rides but when the most popular rides constantly are down it makes me question continuing to purchase season passes. We have the diamond passes but live in San Antonio. We rarely experience down rides in San Antonio outside of the Wonder Woman ride. Coming to Arlington for the weekend and taking time off just to get to a park where rides were constantly down for issues is disheartening. I understand safety is key for everyone but what do you do for the people only in town for one day and buy a day pass and they spend it waiting on broken rides? Six flags has gone down significantly the last 10 years. Adding all the newest rides doesn’t nothing when they are constantly broken.

Dustin C — Google review

Lots of fun, I go for my kid because I don't like roller coasters much. I'm a smoker and another section on the opposite side of the park would have been nice but there was only one.

Savannah C — Google review

We had a great time!! The lines moved fast!! We needed customer service support due to rain cancellation & they were more than accommodating!! They responded fast & always had people ready to help!!! It was a great experience.

Rainy M — Google review

It was my first time visiting a Six Flags park. We got the tickets online for $60, including all the surcharges, for a Sunday. We got there early, so we opened the park and started from the back to the front, because the machines nearest to the entry got busy instantly. A friend had a platinum seasonal pass that included general parking, but you can also buy the parking online. Purchases inside the park are insanely high. A slide of pizza was $17.99 + 0.99 surcharge + taxes. So for lunch is better to ask for the re entry stamp, eat outside, and then come back to the park. I bought the auntie Anne’s pretzel because it was the most affordable thing there ($13), and I don’t regret it, they were great but yeah, I didn’t saw nobody checking bags at the entrance either so probably you can sneak in some snacks and water to survive the day.

Ale A — Google review

We went right before memorial weekend.Many of the rides were completely closed. I understand, winter hours and such. But I mean...it was over 80° hot outside. It's not winter. For staying open all year long, you'd think they'd have some flexibility.Also, oddly enough, a good handful of the rides didn't open at opening. They didn't open until 1-2pm. Some even closed an hour or 2 before closing. Maybe a staffing issue? I had never experienced this before. I know they have to test the rides for safety precautions, however, it's not as pronounced at other locations as it was here.So, that was a downer. At least the ticket prices were cheapish though.I am disabled, so I was at customer service waiting in line for almost an hour to get my accommodations sorted. This was quite a long time to wait to get a piece of paper. This definitely needs to be worked on by the park.Other than these few things, we had fun. Park is a tad small compared to others. The cost of food is absolutely ridiculous. $20 for a chili dog. Ouch.Waiting in line 30-45ins just to refill the $20 cups, also not my favorite part. At least 80% of the stores and refill stations were completely closed down.

Colleen G — Google review

It was our 1st time there & we loved it, We didn't really like much of the service when buying anything. Employees were rude, but other than that, it was such a great place for family. The food was amazing & many places to cool down. Wish they had a way to cool you down when waiting in line at some spots. But, overall, it was a great place.

Alley S — Google review

28

AT&T Stadium

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Stadium

Sights & Landmarks

The AT&T Stadium is the home of the Dallas Cowboys, and is one of the biggest sports & entertainment venues on earth. With huge capacity, it often becomes difficult to get tickets and watch a game live.

I have been to the stadium multiple times. During this review I went for a Dallas game. The experience was great. The stadium is very well maintained. Lots of traffic control officers to help direct to the correct gate/entrance. Please check the handbag and photography carry on policy. Inside there is lots of staff to help with directions and general questions. Restrooms are well kept. There are plenty of concession stands to help keep the lines short. Inside the seats are very comfortable and the views were unobstructed. For a group of four expect to spend 1000k. This would be for nice seats, parking, food and souvenirs. I hope you have a wonderful timeGo Cowboys.

Zoobie D — Google review

The stadium tour is 5 Stars. The stadium experience on game day is 3 1/2 because of long security lines to get in from waiting in freezing cold. They should have more checkpoints to move faster. Some of their security is great and some of them are rude inside. We have been twice on the tours and games. It has awesome views. VIP Guided tours give you amazing access. The further away from game day the greater access. The self guided tour is fun too, especially if you don’t have a lot of time and want to hit the highlights. The food is good but crazy expensive. The traffic is horrible, esp. after a game. We notice more bad ref calls on the Cowboys than other teams?! We love the team. Go Cowboys!

Tamara L — Google review

Beautiful facility well maintained and staffed. Security is easy as long as you follow the guidelines on the website. But I do have to say $7.50 for a bottle of Dr. Pepper was a little bit of a shock. Still a great concert and a fun night.

Royce P — Google review

Should be called the toast of the NFL. The club suites are amazing. The chairs are comfortable and updated. The views from 136 were spectacular. The food was good. It is close to many hotels. Parking is reasonable depending on how far you want to walk. Gig em.

Texas R — Google review

We took the tour of this stadium and it was nothing short of amazing! Even though I'm not a Cowboys fan, this has to be one of my favorite stadiums in the league. It's massive and the architecture is brilliant. Our tour guide educated us with a generous amount of facts about the building. She was funny and helpful too... we loved her energy. During our tour, we got the opportunity to look inside the locker rooms of the Dallas Cowboys and their cheerleaders. We didn't go onto the field but I think it's because they were working to put real grass at the time we were there. Everything inside this building is huge and of the highest quality. It really does remind you of a luxury hotel, which is what they were trying to achieve. We ended the tour inside the Cowboys sports shop. Inside you can find everything you dreamed of Cowboys merchandise, but expect to pay a pretty penny because at the end of the day you are buying authentic NFL merchandise from their home stadium. If you ever get the chance to take a tour of this masterpiece, I highly recommend it.Parking: Parking during the tour is simple since it's free and it's literally right outside the doors.

Alejandro T — Google review

What an experience touring our biggest rival's stadium. The gentlemen at the front desk happily welcomed us even though I was in my Eagles jersey and SB Championship hat! Chuck and I had such fun bantering back and forth. Mary Ann was such a sweet, friendly and knowledgeable tour guide. She also put up with me dancing and singing the Eagles chant song on that blue star on the 50 yard line!! Such a CLEAN, upscale beautiful building. I'd love to see us winning a game there in the cushy seats!Truly impressed. Definitely worth the experience and money!

L D — Google review

This is a must-see for sports fans or anyone just curious about such a massive piece of architecture.I was here for the RV show and was blown away at the sheer size of the place. It's well laid out and easy to navigate. Get your tennis shoes in and be ready for the stairs master 10000.It's a really cool building!

Eric P — Google review

I love the AT&T stadium. I’ve been to other events here but, never a football game. This was my first NFL game. Even though it was preseason, it was a great game and the Cowboys won! I had a great time.

Christian W — Google review

What a great HUGE stadium. We were able to get our tickets last minute and were on the 3rd row seats 10 - 13. This was an awesome area to see the entire field, but even if you are watching the jumbotron, you'll have an excellent time. The atmosphere, hype, and all the dynamics of different things going on around the stadium were 🔥! The Cowboys won, which is a definite plus. The sheer energy around the stadium will lift you up and get you excited for the game.

Erick S — Google review

Get your tickets now!!! $40 for standing room only, so you can bring the whole family. You gotta go for the party atmosphere and excitement. Great play area/mini field for kids and adults. Plenty of outdoor seating too. Be warned, I'm 6'3". Shorter than 6' and you may not see much if you stand in the designated areas. Heard you can buy seats for $50 at halftime.

Keith P — Google review

It was a fun night!!! Our First Dallas Cowboy football game ever!Stuff is over-priced but that's to be expected. It is a nice stadium especially on the 50 yard line. The night of the Hall of fame induction as well. I'm ready to go to the next one!

TM J — Google review

Stadium was very nice. Beautiful screen and nice setup. Only problem is that i think attendence is a little exaggerated. Day we were their announced the crowd as just over 56,000 and it looked very full not sure how they can fit another 20 plus thousand as they claim. Also finding seats was a little difficult. We had lower bowl and we kept walking around after the usher told us to walk to the other side of the stadium. At least i got my steps in that day. Overall one of the better stadiums i have visited and would go back.

Nicholas D — Google review

The VIP tour was incredible. I only wish they had the field set for football instead of monster trucks so we could go out there. I'll be back for a self guided tour just for that! It was mentioned that Jones' daughter and wife had quite the hand in designing many of the spaces. They did a magnificent job.

Rene R — Google review

The most fantastic stadium in the country, without a doubt! Do yourself a favor and take the VIP tour and/or go to a Cowboys game. You will not be dissapointed with the experience. Pro tip: take a tour on the Saturday before a home game. They have Rally Days tours where there’s activities on the field and you can hang out as long as you want. The place is simply awesome inside and out!

Sam T — Google review

I will say I had an awesome time at the game vs the Cards but to experience the stadium kinda sucks. Reason I say that is because if you want to walk around the stadium, being my first time, you have to go through, up and down, many levels even if you wanna just walk in a circle. ITS NOT DESIGNED WELL for people to explore. But the Jumbo Tron is as Big as people say it is 🤣😂🤣

Leo R — Google review

I mean it's nice, just don't expect anything to be convenient or quick. This time it was a concert, so there were a few more people than usual making everything worse. Other than the crowds, help is impossible since staff only know enough to get you away from them and on to the next one. Even simple stuff was hard for them. Not sure if this is an arena issue, but having only 4 merchandise sales areas open to the public is ridiculous.

Bill H — Google review

Home of the COWBOYS🤍💙🤍💙 my husband surprised me to last years home game. It was a wonderful experience. This year we took my whole family to the Mexico vs Australia and it was an amazing experience. The stadium is amazing, the staff are kind and friendly. We arrived two hours prior to the game and enjoyed our time in our seats, exploring and grabbing food which was awesome because we didn’t have to wait in any awful lines!!

Amanda A — Google review

This is an impressive stadium! We did the stadium tour and was completely surprised with how much fun it was! Our tour guide, Ted was amazing!!!!! You can tell he truly loves his job, loves the cowboys and is great with interacting with a large tour group that makes all feel included. Even thought the place feels insanely huge I don’t think there is a bad seat in the house.

Kristen S — Google review

We paid for the VIP tour, and it states “with small group sizes of (35) people or less”. Our group, plus 2 other groups we saw, had closer to 50 people per group. I feel overcharged for what was promised. The tour itself was interesting, and our guide was knowledgeable.

Valerie R — Google review

First time visiting the stadium for an evening concert. Facilities are great and very spacious. Team members are some what friendly for assistance. Some are just temps for events. Will revisit again for a Cowboys game when season is back on.

ROY T — Google review

This stadium is amazing!! Everyone around here are polite and respectful.Working here has been amazing.Today was a soccer game Mexico vs USA . The crowd was intense.But I bet it's even more intense with the cowboys playing there.I enjoyed the experience completely. I recommend anyone who hasn't been here to come to check out the environment. Altogether I say it's like any other stadium but the vibes here are great! Shout out to Dallas and Jerry for having such an amazing staff and a great stadium

Vern D — Google review

We had a great time watching my son and his teammates play flag football at the AT&T Stadium. This place is beautiful and massive. We also had the pleasure of doing the stadium tour and I loved every moment of it. I'd love to come back to visit again.

Chibuike U — Google review

With the 100 degrees heat, they closed the roof and the temperature inside was very nice. Chairs are comfortable. 32oz soda: $12. Pretzel and water: $17.Bathrooms are clean!If you are looking for a place to eat, just go to Live! It is a selection of bars altogether and they get full fast after the game and there is nowhere to seat. We ended up just getting 2 tacos and a beer $44

Gabriela M — Google review

Always an epic experience at the Cowboys Game, really appreciated them allowing my service dog. We had a blast at the Thanksgiving Game 2023, and we won!! Tons of food and beverage items, the food, bars and events across the street after the game are always a fun time. Parking is smart to buy tickets online before the game or bring cash, show up early and get a good parking spot. There’s tons of parking around the area so don’t panic if you’re last minute scrambling to find a spot. All the staff members are super attentive. You can even watch the game outside the stadium with a big group of folks that hang out at the fountain that we’re having a blast. One big supportive community!! Shout out to the section Guard who allowed my service animal to hang out in the less crowded areas of our section away from our assigned seating.

Pierce C — Google review

Amazing place to visit! I've only been here for Dallas Cowboys games but I'm sure it's awesome no matter what the event is you're going to. It's a massive place but there's really not a bad seat in the place. Ive sat way down low close to the field and also up in the 400s, can see the game just fine from anywhere and the giant screen helps when you're up high too.The art around the stadium is top notch and very cool to look at. Very large restrooms helps lines go quickly, though there will still be lines, just too many people not to be. Food is pretty good although I've got one complaint in that area. The cheese on the nachos is not great. Need a better version Jerry!If you have a chance to catch a Cowboys game or any other event, go visit this place! And if you can take a tour where you get to go see the locker rooms for the players and cheerleaders, board rooms, weight rooms, etc... I definitely recommend doing it! I took a tour a few years back and it was a fantastic time and a great experience!

Bobby C — Google review

I came for a work event (Optum) where I tabled as a vendor. The hospitality and service staff were so professional, Khalid leads an amazing team. Our event was so much fun, all the guests had a great time on the VIP tour and enjoyed the food and snacks. I can’t say enough about the events teams’ hospitality. They made us feel so welcome and were very accommodating.

Simone H — Google review

I recently visited AT&T Stadium, and I must say, I've never been in such a beautiful stadium before! The architecture and design are absolutely spectacular. Every corner of the stadium exudes grandeur, making it a remarkable venue for any event. Plus, the stadium is fully air-conditioned, ensuring a comfortable experience no matter the weather outside.However, be prepared for high prices when it comes to food and drinks. I paid $61 for a Cowboy sandwich, a margarita, and two water bottles. While the experience was worth it, the cost of refreshments was definitely steep. Despite this, the overall experience was unforgettable, and I would highly recommend visiting AT&T Stadium for any sports enthusiast or event-goer.

Victoria D — Google review

Was awesome to finally see a NFL game. This was an awesome place to see. Coming from Australia I would be happy to admit the atmosphere was excellent. Cowboys went on good run in back end of 23 into 24 so was great to be “part” of it. Only one downside was a really disappointing food vendor experience which saw me miss most of 4th quarter. But I fixed after the fact with the vendor and all good. Food and drink was expensive but excellent

Adam B — Google review

As a fan of the Cowboys, I've seen this stadium on TV a lot and it definitely didn't disappoint seeing it in person! I took a tour and it was worth every cent!

Andrew — Google review

This was an amazing 2 hour VIP tour. Start at the top and work your way to ground level locker rooms. Didn't get to walk the field due to a trade show being set up. My wife's a Cowboy 🤠 fan. I'm a Niner fan, but this stadium is impressive.

Lemmie K — Google review

Wonderful tour. Player's locker room. Cheerleader locker room. Couldn't get on the field cause it was being prepped for a soccer game whichh was actually a let down. But the rest was great. Lasted about two hours. Group was probably 20-25 people. You'll ride the freight elevator to each level. Everyone gets on at once...pretty tight fit.

Brian D — Google review

Kenny Chesney concert was awesome. Great venue for listening to a band or a Cowboys game.Very nice modern stadium.Nice air conditioning and easy to find your seats. Venue very clean.Be careful if you're going to a concert. The size requirement for ladies' purses is ridiculously small, bring a see-through purse.Even if you buy seats higher up, no worries. The very large screen asked you to feel like your right up front.

Jennifer K — Google review

Came for the first time for a concert and this is easily the best stadium I’ve ever been to.With the dome closed, it feels like a relaxing atmosphere with plenty of weather control. The entire stadium is easy to navigate since it’s a complete loop. The entire place is spotless and highly maintained. And the staff we interacted with were all very pleasant.Had a great time visiting the home of the Cowboys. Even if it wasn’t for a game this time around.

Cruiser P — Google review

Took the tour of the stadium and it was amazing. We were able to go right down onto the field and into the locker rooms. We got to experience the box seats and see the highest levels of the stadium. Our tour guide was very informative and loved the Cowboys. I would recommend for any football fans.

Liam K — Google review

We had the BEST tour at AT&T Stadium! Our tour guide was Taylor and she was super knowledgeable and funny. The history, the memorabilia, the ENGINEERING, and the shear greatness of this structure was just mind blowing!! I HIGHLY recommend you take the tour if you get the chance.

Mindy B — Google review

Great place to watch a game or concert. The video board is hard to keep your eyes out of but if you can almost every seat is a good one. Parking can be pricey of course and they REALLY need to work on their beer selection. Jerry and team did an excellent job on the stadium, now if they could just do more with the Cowboys :-)!

Bobby B — Google review

I attended WrestleMania here in April 2022. What a beautiful stadium it is. The atmosphere was incredible. Staff were helpful and very polite. I'm from the UK, and the people of Texas were so friendly and made me feel very welcome. AT&T Stadium truly is a wonderful sight to behold. I've fallen in love with Texas and can not wait to return again in the future.

Stefan B — Google review

Was a great concert May 11th!! Kenny Chesney 🎸 and Zac Brown Band and Megan Morony and Uncle Kracker rocked that big stadium!! Sound was amazing! Crowd was big but we were all Alright!! Great experience during this event!! Would recommend 👌 to everyone.

Peggy B — Google review

Love the diverse events that go on at the stadium from football to rodeo this stadium has great energy and is a blast! You can also take a Cowboys tour which is fun. We went to the Professional Bull Riding Championship and had a great time. Would recommend the events here!

Jantzen G — Google review

I did a stadium tour.I’ve done various stadium / sporting related tours around the world and I have to say that Sherry is by far the best guide I’ve ever encountered. Very knowledgeable and kind, furthermore she was full of energy despite it being the last tour of the day. If you’re able to do a tour with her , I’d highly recommend it.

R R — Google review

We were invited to the COPA AMERICA USA 2024 by our Son and We had a Blast! USA WON 2-0 against Bolivia. The stadium is so Beautiful! They had a variety of foods to choose from. The seating was awesome. I also loved their Huge Jumbotron. They sell beer, margaritas, co*cktails, soft drinks and water so there is fun for everyone. I can't wait to go back!!

GG G — Google review

4.7

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4.5

(4025)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (227)

1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011, USA

(817) 892-4000

29

Fort Worth Stockyards

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Historical landmark

Sights & Landmarks

The business center of Fort Worth, Texas is the Stockyards National Historic District. This district covers 98 acres and features a variety of restored buildings from the late 19th century, when the city was known for its cattle industry. Today, the Stockyards is a tourist attraction with cowboy-themed shops and restaurants.

Saw the cattle drive which was very cool! Some gigantic horns on the cattle that came through. It was cool to experience traditional Texas culture that way. Lot's of interesting shops in the area as well. If you want a sense of Texas culture, this is a place to go.

Cameron F — Google review

Great experience! You must be there on time for the longhorn steer street parade. This 140 year plus historic center of live stock processing/sales tells a great story about the early years of this industry. There are many great attractions, restaurants and bars close by to enjoy. Parking is plentiful, but be prepared to walk as it's required to enjoy the full experience. FOLLOW ME for more thoughtful recommendations as I travel the world 🌎

Vincent H — Google review

For someone who's never been to Texas and who loves Western vibes, this was such a cool visit! The sculptures and buildings were lovely and it was great to see the Coliseum where there's still rodeos today. Unfortunately on this occasion I missed the longhorns running the street but I'll def check that out on my next visit. So much history here......

Fiona L — Google review

Popular tourist spot but great for tourists and locals alike. Lots of fun things for kids. Cool area to walk around, see the animals. The petting zoo was fun ($5 to get in, $3 for a cup of seeds that lasted well). Longhorns are definitely cool to see in person. Lots of shopping and restaurants. Lots to see and do. Parking all over. There’s a long narrow lot that’s east access without dealing with driving down the main drag - $15 on the weekend (all day)

Stephanie O — Google review

This place was amazing. So much to see and do. Loved the cattle drive, the horse drawn carriage ride, being able to get pictures of my mom sitting on a bull, and the live entertainment. The John Wayne museum was also very interesting.Just be prepared EVERYTHING/EVERYWHERE IS CREDIT CARD ONLY - NO CASH. Also would highly recommend using the valet parking service.

Frog L — Google review

Went in December on a Monday morning so not much was happening. There was some Christmas activities going on like ice skating and pictures with santa. Not a whole lot of people were around so it was nice to walk around without people or traffic.I walked past this bizarre storage room of interesting taxidermy. Since it's winter the train wasn't running through the station to drop and pick people up. The cattle drive was kind of fun but also a bit uneventful. They just walked past us normally.

Kelly L — Google review

Cool and interesting place to check out, they do cattle drive 2x daily, at 11:30 and 4pm. There are shops and restaurants you can eat nearby. Kids loved the pony rides at $8 a person, we also did the horse ride at $15 per person, and mini train ride at $5 a person. Bathroom on the outside by the trailer is cleaner!

Rita L — Google review

Cow Town! Excellent place for just about anybody.The Longhorns are majestic, beautiful animals, and I am honoured to have been here to see the cattle drive.The train, museums, shops, history. It's all here!Thank you for the free entertainment and wonderful experience.

Dee T — Google review

This is definitely a must-do if you ever find yourself in Fort Worth. The Historic Stockyards do not disappoint one bit. There are many shops, restaurants, shows, and other activities that will give you almost a full day of fun. As you walk down the Stockyard Strip (Exchange Ave), the smell of smoked BBQ will delight your senses. Horse drawn carriage rides are available, as well as photo opportunities with some real longhorn steer. Twice a day they have a cattle drive, it doesn’t last very long (roughly10 minutes), but it’s definitely worth it to see the longhorn steer parade down the road as they have daily for over 20 years.Depending on when you choose to visit, parking can be a little challenging. There is paid parking on Exchange Ave, however, I recommend walking a little further to the main or side roads if you want to park for free.I highly recommend the Fort Worth Stockyards for a unique Texas experience.

Monica H — Google review

Such a cool place. If you’re in Fort Worth then the Stockyards should be top of your list to visit.A real authentic cowboy town with loads to do for people of all ages. There is a cattle drive twice a day which is worth catching, there’s plenty of shops to browse as well as great places to eat and cool saloons for a drink and some live music.We were a family with children aged 16, 13 and 8 and they all enjoyed it. Will definitely be coming back

Anthony F — Google review

In short - it's like old cowboy town /village.I liked the place very much you will get see horses, bulls, horse carts (15$ ride), vintage cars. Vintage looking food restaurant, steak house, burger house etc. themed gifts shops with actually good gift items [all pics attached].MAKE SURE YOU VISIT AT A SPECIFIC TIME OF DAY WHEN YOU HAVE 1HR DURING DAY LIGHT AND 2-4 HRS DURING NIGHT. This will help you enjoy both days view and night lightings.

Ritesh K — Google review

It was way too hot. So we did lots of shopping to keep cool. Their parking lots suck. No card readers for us techno challenged folks. My sister and niece couldn't figure out how to pay by phone and ended up getting a $40 parking ticket. I drove my car and was able to pay using my PayPal so no parking ticket for me. But they should have a card reader. One of the shops I was in the employee said there are a lot of complaints regarding parking so beware, you better have a way to pay using your phone, otherwise you will get a ticket. It was so hot that they didn't have the longhorns walk through the streets like they normally do. But there was other fun stuff to do. You could do a trail ride on friendly horses, and right next to that was a petting zoo. Next time we'll go in the fall and not the summer. We went on a Wednesday and we were told more activities were available on weekends.

Susan T — Google review

This is a wonderful family fun friendly place. The kids loved it. We loved it. Shops, fun activities, characters, mini-dramas, and the inside climate controlled full rodeo. Suggestion: buy your tickets online inadvanced. We didn't have bad seats, but didn't have a lot to choose from and would have liked to be closer than we were.

Elizabeth J — Google review

My visit to the Fort Worth Stock Yards was great! We stayed at the Hotel Drover, and walked around to all the nearby shops and restaurants. We watched the cattle drive, took a horse and buggy ride, enjoyed some delicious Mexican food, and bought some great Texas souvenirs! I highly recommend a visit to the stock yards if you’re in the area.

Lisa K — Google review

If you're in Dallas and you're looking for something different, this place is a MUST, specially if you're into cowboy vibes. There's a free-of-charge show everyday at 11:30am and 4:00pm, which consists of a "parade" with long horn cows and some guys riding horses, they explain the history of the place among other interesting facts. You can drink on the streets, there are plenty of bars and restaurants and it's also a good place for shopping. It's a place perfect for the family or simply to go with friends and have a good time. We all enjoyed it a lot.

Juan S — Google review

Action packed entertainment from start to finish! If you have never been to a rodeo this is a must see if in Fort Worth. Stockyards features bull riding, bucking broncos, tie down roping of calves, and barrel racing. Events are held in the Cowtown Coliseum, an indoor rodeo so the weather does not matter. The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District portrays the Western heritage of the Texas livestock industry. Twice a day there is a well-attended longhorn cattle drive on the street. Truly an awesome way to spend a day.

Bill Z — Google review

this is an amazing place to visit if you like cowboys culture or like to have a great BBQ! you will find a magical place to stay and enjoy with your families, there a lot of things to do for your children and a vast amount of shops and very good restaurants, don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy this place!

Joabian A — Google review

Absolutely the best experience! I had the time of my life!Lee road an historical Victorian train. They still have the moving of longhorn bulls through town. We did horseback riding! I actually wrote a mechanical bull and we got to see an historical and still current televised rodeo!Every single person that we came across the super sweet, and it was all around an awesome experience! I'm from the East Coast New Jersey / New York. It's a totally different lifestyle of living. And I had the best time!

Jennifer B — Google review

The best tourist's attraction in Fort Worth! Lots of people during the weekend (F U Covid!). The area was vacated last year but has since gained back its patrons! And I'm glad because this place has so much history and culture. There is the rodeo, the museum of cattle trading, the historic buildings converted to hotels and restaurants. Two of my favorite BBQ places are in this area.

Hanson T — Google review

Saw the Cattle Drive today and also saw it in December close to Christmas time and it was absolutely amazing both times. Before it started there was this awesome Texan there talking about the history and it was quite fascinating, I learned so much.We got to take pics with the longhorn and see the cows which was awesome.The entire street, the look, the stores are all worth it. It was absolutely amazing.If you're in forth worth you gotta check this is you won't be disappointed at all.Definitely recommend a visit.

Melisha C — Google review

Love this place! It’s CRAZY FUN. If you love or like the old western this is the place for you. Plenty of fun, food, drinks. Entertainment, accommodations and most importantly lots of PARKING. We moved to the DFW Area over a year ago and we love that this area has so much to offer. Fun for everyone Men, Women and Definitely Children. Please visit the museum and tours first as they will allow you to fully understand and embrace the time period. Last Don’t forget to watch the Cattle Drive which happens every day at 11:30 am and 4:00 pm Most importantly have fun, I me and my family did. We will definitely be back. Thank you Texas Stockyards

ND 4 — Google review

I was bracing myself for a tourist trap but I was very wrong.Friendliness:Firstly, everyone working in the stores and restaurants I visited and the staff involved in the shows and attractions were very welcoming and friendly. The prices for food, souvenirs and attractions are normal and reasonable. No price gouging in any of the places I visited.Attractions:There’s something for everyone in the family. The cattle drive is entertaining and the comedy shootout show afterwards is a must see. Carriage rides were also fun but I really enjoyed simply hanging out in the well maintained Exchange Ave where you can have beer while you walk around.Parking rates ($16.50 a day) are expensive if you are visit only for couple of hours but worth it if you are spending a whole day. Furthermore, there is a good amount of parking. There were few empty spots close to all the attractions on a Saturday of memorial weekend around noon.

Fansntt — Google review

Absolutely wonderful place to take the family or friends. Lots of restaurants and bars. A place where you can sit and relax and enjoy the amazing views of nature and people. Lots of variety of food choices. You can enjoy the boat tours and they have park Police so you can few extra safe as well. We will come back again for sure!!

Brandon J — Google review

Stockyards in Fort Worth is a truly captivating destination that offers a rich blend of history, culture, and entertainment. Stepping into this lively district feels like taking a step back in time, immersing oneself in the Old West. The iconic cattle drives are a sight to behold, as cowboys expertly maneuver herds of longhorns through the streets, creating an authentic and exhilarating experience. The historic buildings and wooden sidewalks further enhance the ambiance, transporting visitors to a bygone era. Whether you're exploring the unique shops, enjoying a delicious meal at one of the many restaurants, or catching a live rodeo show, Stockyards effortlessly captures the spirit of the Wild West and leaves a lasting impression.Moreover, Stockyards offers a plethora of entertainment options that cater to a wide range of interests. History buffs can delve into the past at the Stockyards Museum, which houses fascinating exhibits showcasing the area's rich heritage. For those seeking adrenaline-pumping thrills, there are plenty of opportunities to witness exciting rodeo events or try your hand at bull riding. Live music fills the air, as various venues offer an array of performances, from classic country tunes to modern beats. The friendly atmosphere and warm hospitality of the locals add to the overall charm of Stockyards, making it a must-visit destination for anyone looking for an authentic Western experience in Fort Worth.

Maria J — Google review

This is a great place to see some of the history of Texas. The area is full of restaurants and bars. You can also see live rodeo at night and watch cattle drives during the day. We saw one at high noon. Parking in the middle of the area seems limited. We had to use valet parking for our hotel. There are also several shops selling Texas style clothing and accessories.

Eddie H — Google review

Cute little tourist area. I loved the Fort Worth vibes. Similar to any main st. it's put together nicely with a lot of boutique food choices. If you need a hat or boots, they have you covered, too. My only complaint was the traffic on the street next to the stockyards and the food I had at a music place was unfortunately not tasty. Probably should have done the steakhouse.

Vanessa H — Google review

Amazing place, walking in Fort Worth I felt like in film, beautiful atmosphere, beautiful people, authentic city, various shops and restaurants. You will not be disappointed! The sunny day made the atmosphere even better, the city was shining with Christmas decorations. Parking places are very close to the central street too.

Evgeniya K — Google review

Fun collection of shops built right on the historic stockyards. Pretty cool redevelopment concept and plenty to do, eat, or see. Would definitely recommend visiting if you're in Fort Worth.Did not catch the cattle stampede but heard good things from people who had. Something for everyone here and quite kid friendly.

Christopher B — Google review

FREE event, Christmas parade was awesome! Good vibes, family atmosphere, lots of shops and very good and affordable restaurants. Plenty of parking lots, I think streets are free to park but not sure. We paid $17. Christmas tree is nice looking! There’s so much to see. Bring your beer!

Martha L — Google review

We visited the stockyard to see the cattle drive. It’s a lot smaller than I had envisioned (maybe only 8 or 10 cows), but you can look at the cows in their pens. There’s lots of activities for kids such as pony rides, a maze, and a petting zoo.The historic downtown area is really cool! There’s lots of fun stuff in the gift shops.There’s a few parking lots, and the ones we saw allowed you to pay by scanning a QR code.

Kaylie P — Google review

On June 13th I flew to Dallas to spend my birthday with my son and daughter-in-law. One of the highlights of my day was our visit to Fort Worth Stockyards. My daughter-in-law found it when she was looking for things for us to do. It was amazing watching the long-horn bulls saunter down the street, which they do twice a day, and it is free. After lunch we strolled through the Stockyards enjoying the various offerings of things to do and stores to browse through. As we were walking through the town, there was a cowboy standing next to one of the long-horn bulls with a 3 step- stool for getting on the bull. I said I just turned 75 today and had never sat on a bull, so I'm doing I'm and I did. It was a fantastic experience for me, and I'm so glad I did. It was a fun day.

Jackie F — Google review

What a treat to stroll down these historic streets, rodeo area/Cowtown Coliseum, stockyards and train depot. Lots of cute shops, famous watering holes and restaurants owned by famous chefs. What’s not to love?Then add the amazing longhorns strolling down the avenue twice a day steered by cowboys on horseback. Quite a site!

Lynnann G — Google review

"Five stars for the Stockyards in Fort Worth, Texas! Visiting the Stockyards is like taking a step back in time to the wild west, with its rich history and vibrant atmosphere.From the moment you arrive, you're greeted by the iconic sights and sounds of cowboy culture. The historic buildings and wooden sidewalks transport you to a bygone era, while the aroma of barbecue and the sound of live music fill the air.The Stockyards offer something for everyone, whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a good time. You can catch a thrilling rodeo at the Cowtown Coliseum, stroll down Exchange Avenue to shop for western wear and souvenirs, or grab a bite to eat at one of the many delicious restaurants serving up authentic Texas cuisine.But perhaps the best part of the Stockyards is the sense of community and camaraderie that permeates the area. Whether you're chatting with locals at a saloon or watching the daily cattle drive down Exchange Avenue, you can't help but feel like you're part of something special.Overall, the Stockyards in Fort Worth is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience the true spirit of Texas. With its rich history, lively atmosphere, and endless entertainment options, it's no wonder it's become a beloved cultural landmark. Five stars all around!"

Nathan B — Google review

We had an amazing day at the Stockyards! We were shocked at how much there was to do! We arrived around 10 and we're able to see the 11:30 cattle drive... longhorns walked down the middle of the street. Then we spent the day shopping and exploring. A great first day in the Fort Worth area!

Dave C — Google review

I loved browsing the stores. There are lots of Western items for everyone. Each store seemed to have unique items. There were bars and restaurants too. Loved seeing the longhorns walk down the street. We even got a special treat with the Budweiser Clydesdales. Just a side note, a lot of the walkway is cobblestone, so older people with walking issues should be extra careful.

Christina M — Google review

Awesome! Amazing! We had a great time all day. We visited the John Wayne Museum, the Stockyard Museum and the Cowboy Museum. We watched the cattle drive twice and had the best steak I have EVER eaten. Love this place!!

Leslie A — Google review

One of my favorite places to go in Fort Worth!! Love this city!! Haven't been to the stockyards in over a year, so much has changed!! My husband and I met at PR's 32 years ago, about to have our 31st anniversary!!

Melissa W — Google review

What a fun place to visit!! We visited at night to attend the Rodeo and again the next day. Great place for all ages as long as you are able to walk. Sidewalks would be difficult for a wheelchairs since it's more of an uneven cobblestone/brick. Browsed the stores and shopped. Had a great lunch with co*cktails. Family members went on a trail ride. They have a livestock petting area etc.

Carol V — Google review

Great place to visit, shop, eat and have a fun experience with the Texas longhorns. It's a unique experience getting to watch those massive bulls walk down the center of town. If you are in the area, this is a must!

Matthew B — Google review

Accurately depicts ranching, rural, country life of the past. The introduction to the Stockyards and it's significance is told live every day before the cattle drive down the main street. It is an amazing story and a reflection of history in this part of Texas, Fort Worth. Don't miss it.

Connie B — Google review

Amazing I love it here. This is my number one spot for shopping dining plus a little drinking. There are so many great restaurants and shopping spots. If you’re looking for a great time to do what you love this is definitely worth a visit. I never get disappointed with the Fort Worth Stockyards and I always enjoy seeing the western side of Texas.

Ismael C — Google review

This is a fun spot in Dallas. There are scheduled cattle drives of long horn cows down the streets and staged gun fights. You need a lot of time to spend here as there are lots of shops and the restaurants are plentiful. Be warned that the restaurant service can be a little slow so if you are in a hurry or part of a tour I'd pack a lunch if you don't have the time for a sit down meal. Otherwise, this is a fun place. Check out the rodeo shows if you can.

Tomnoddy1 — Google review

I am from out of town in this place is a must for any out of towner. Lots of shopping lots of food lots of things to see. If you go at certain times you can see the steers walk through the street. Very cool place to check out. If you get lucky you might be able to even catch a rodeo.

Ed G — Google review

Loved the Stockyards! The cattle drive is really cool and the staff was great fun. The shops on the main drag are expensive unless you really want high-end cowboy clothes, but all the shops down at the depot are fun for souvenirs and bargains. Would definitely go here again.

Alex L — Google review

Fantastic way to spend the day immersed in the old wild Wild West. Many stores, shops,, western boutiques, pubs, and restaurants. Several hotel options as well. Awesome if you can time your visit to see a rodeo, and one of the cattle drives. There’s also an old train station where you can take a train to Grapevine, near Dallas. Don’t miss this place when visiting Dallas (45min - 1hr drive), or Fort Worth.

Raphael V — Google review

VISIT HERE! I don’t care if you think it looks lame or tourist trappy. GO!I absolutely loved it here. There is so many things to do day and night. Family stuff during the day. Tons of great live music. Lots of shops (though some are very very pricey) drinks are well priced. Overall it’s a great place in Fort Worth.

McKaila C — Google review

Five of us visited after arriving in Dallas for a conference, easy to find, plenty of parking and cowboys on every corner.Plenty of bars and food outlets, horse carriage rides and lots of history to take in.We didn’t see a show but they are meant to be amazing, if you want to enjoy cars and trucks riding round then you will get to enjoy these also.If you want dancing lessons you can find these on offer on a Tuesday and Sunday at a bar right at the top of the hill. Very good and they are really helpful teaching you the correct steps.

Our A — Google review

Is it worth going, sure. Is there a lot to do aside from shopping and eating....ehhh.We spent the whole day there and enjoyed our time. While there are things to do, including the herd and a few museums, it's mostly food and shopping over a majority of the place.It's fun to walk around the area, and themed to match the history of the location.Parking is by QR code. Something like $15/10hrs....something like that. There are on signs in the parking lot.

Neil H — Google review

My recent visit to the Fort Worth Stockyards was an unforgettable journey into the rich history and vibrant culture of Texas. Stepping into this iconic destination felt like taking a step back in time, as I was immediately immersed in the sights, sounds, and smells of the Old West.The Stockyards' rustic charm and authentic cowboy atmosphere were evident at every turn. From the historic buildings and wooden sidewalks to the sound of clanging horseshoes and the sight of cowboys herding cattle, every detail added to the immersive experience of being in a true Western frontier town.One of the highlights of my visit was witnessing the famous Fort Worth Herd cattle drive. Watching the majestic longhorns make their way down Exchange Avenue was a sight to behold, offering a glimpse into the area's rich cattle-driving heritage.In addition to the cattle drive, there were plenty of other attractions and activities to enjoy in the Stockyards. From exploring the numerous shops and boutiques selling Western wear and souvenirs to enjoying live music performances and delicious Texas barbecue, there was something for everyone to enjoy.Overall, my experience at the Fort Worth Stockyards was nothing short of magical. It's a must-visit destination for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the history, culture, and spirit of the Old West. Whether you're a history buff, a cowboy enthusiast, or simply looking for a unique and memorable experience, the Fort Worth Stockyards has something to offer for everyone.

Harshu R — Google review

It was such a neat experience for Texans & outsiders. It holds an abundance of history. It's pretty cool to know it's the world's only 2x cattle drive daily. It's surrounded by restaurants & bars to tickle anyone's fancy. I'm looking forward to my next visit & experience more of this historic district.

Mati B — Google review

4.7

(21239)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (235)

4.5

(5521)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (236)

131 E Exchange Ave, Fort Worth, TX 76164, USA

(817) 626-7921

30

Historic Downtown Grapevine Association

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (237)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (238)

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (239)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (240)

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Historic Walking Areas

What an amazing experience! We were there yesterday. It is called the Christmas capital for a reason. Beautiful Christmas atmosphere with dancing lights, snow showers ( not real but felt real!) , Christmas music, pictires with Santa, yummy holiday food samples and so much more!A must visit arpund Christmas time.

Gigi G — Google review

These are some of the photos of 38th Annual Main Street Festival. The Festival lasts for May 20, 21 and 22 2022.There are a lot of people at this festival and there are bands, varieties of foods and rides for children.There are also different things that you can buy as well. There's also wine tasting, jewelry that you can buy and more.The booths are scattered throughout the festival and each both offers something different. This particular event is kid friendly and has something for everyone in it.

Tori U — Google review

So much to see during the holidays, but a joy to experience year round. The restaurants, shops, and weekend farmers markets are beyond adorable and unique. Great for brunch, gifting, or just a change if scenery.

Alexandra G — Google review

Perfect place for a nice walk, full of history, shops, restaurants, and lots of spots for great pictures. It has the perfect small town vibe but within minutes of Dallas and Fort Worth.

Alfonso J — Google review

Rocky & I love visiting historic Downtown Grapevine! Especially during Christmas. Rocky is the 2020 & 2021 Dog Days of Denton SpokesDog and he loves walking main street and meeting so many nice people.

Lisa V — Google review

Grapevine is often called the "Christmas Capital of Texas", and going off their downtown you can definitely see why. A majority of the buildings are elaborately decorated, and there is an abundance of photo opportunities if you need to create last-minute Christmas cards. There are plenty of interactive elements, including a model train exhibit in the visitor center, a live blacksmith, and snowman which come to life to sing a "Can't Stop the Feeling" parody at night.I will say a high percentage of the shops fall under the "tourist trap" category: I'm a big fan of weird socks, but once you see the same designs for the dozenth time it starts to get a bit tiring. There seemed to be an outsized focus on small businesses, so that's nice.It gets very crowded during the Christmas season. I first arrived at a Sunday around 5, and the adjacent parking garage was completely full, leading to a 20 minute wait to find a parking spot. It got ridicously slammed by 7. On a Tuesday I arrived at 11am to low crowds but it got a bit busy by 1 and started to really pick up by when I left at 3. The rate for the garage is thankfully very reasonable.If you are in the DFW area, I definitely recommend visiting. Even beyond Christmas, downtown Grapevine has a lot of interesting historical landmarks throughout as one of the oldest incorporated communities in the metroplex, and although I complained about the shopping options, there are some real gems here. Grapevine is right next to the DFW airport and within a 30 minute drive of most major cities in the area, so travel should not be a big issue.

Jimmy C — Google review

‘‘Twas the night before Christmas in downtown Grapevine. We had a blast walking and enjoying the lights.

E M — Google review

We only go for Christmas. But let me tell you,Grapevine Texas downtown, it's amazing!!!🎄🙌👍❤️

Gloria L — Google review

Downtown Grapevine is beautiful during Christmas! Great place to see lots of lights and take fun pictures!

Stacy G — Google review

Absolutely lovely historic neighborhood to walk around. It is so rustic, laid back and yet vibrant.

Sunil N — Google review

My favorite downtown walking area in the DFW Metroplex, good restaurants and shopping for everyone,

Nihad R — Google review

4.7

(51)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (241)

4.5

(1452)40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (242)

430 S Main St, Grapevine, TX 76051, USA

(972) 388-7848

40 Best Stops Between San Jose and McKinney (2024)

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