About Texas

Texas holds the title of the second largest state in the United States, in terms of both population and acreage covered. It was the 28th state to be added to the Union, officially declaring statehood in 1845. The capitol of Texas is the city of Austin, though the largest is Houston. Both cities are among the most popular destinations for visitors from all over the world.

Texas is located in the southern area of the United States and is bordered by Mexico, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Arkansas and Louisiana. The city of Houston is the fourth largest city among all of the cities in the nation.

The state of Texas is sometimes referred to as the "Lone Star State". This nickname was given as a reminder of the long battle to gain independence from Mexico. Because of the nickname, a lone star is proudly displayed on the state flag and on the state seal.

Although most people think of Texas as a large desert land, the state is actually made up of less than ten percent desert. The terrain actually offers a wide variety of features, as is true for most of the surrounding states in this intensely hot section of the country.

A true example of everything the American southwest has to offer, this state includes swamplands, piney woods, rolling plains, and even rugged hills that are great for hiking and outdoor adventures. Of course, there are also desert lands in certain regions, especially in the southern regions where the heat is notorious for being intense.

The Big Bend mountain area is also very popular because it offers a wide variety of outdoor adventures, suitable for families as well as professional hikers and sports enthusiasts.

No matter what type of terrain may be desired for a vacation, Texas has a little of everything.

Cities in Texas