100 Dumb US Laws (With Proof They Exist)
Texas (TX) is the second largest U.S. state, located in the south along the border with Mexico. The state has a strong economy built largely on oil and natural gas, agriculture, and technology. The capital of Texas is Austin, while the largest city is Houston. Among the most popular attractions in Texas are the national parks Big Bend and Guadalupe Mountains.
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Table of Contents
Quick Facts
Name Texas Abbreviation TX Capital Austin Largest city Houston (Population: 2 314 157) Current time 8:54 Time zone CST (UTC-6) is in effect in most of the state, with only El Paso and Hudspeth counties in the west being MST (UTC-7). The state observes daylight saving time CDT (UTC-5) and MDT (UTC-6) Population 29,145,459 (#2 most populous US state) Area 268,595 sqmi (#2 largest US state) Admitted to the Union December 29, 1845 (#28 state to join) ⭐ Capital of Texas
In 1836, Texas declared independence from Mexico after the victory at the Battle of San Jacinto, and three years later a commission was formed to find a site for a new capital. The choice was Austin, which was renamed and expanded with the goal of becoming the capital city.
The area on the north bank of the Colorado River was selected on the recommendation of Texas Vice President Mirabeau Buonaparte Lamar, and it was declared the capital in 1845. Austin was named in honor of the founder of the Texas colony, Stephen Fuller Austin, known as the Father of Texas.
🏙️ Largest City in Texas
The largest city in Texas is Houston, home to 2,314,157 residents in 2023. The second largest is San Antonio with 1,495,295 residents, and third is Dallas with a population of 1,302,868.
🕒 Time in Texas
The current time in Texas is 8:54. Almost the entire state observes Central Standard Time (CST, UTC-6), with only El Paso and Hudspeth counties in far West Texas observing Mountain Standard Time (MST, UTC-7). From March through November, the entire state switches to daylight saving time.
🧑🤝🧑 Population of Texas
According to 2023 data, 29,145,459 people lived in Texas, which ranked it second among the most populous U.S. states.
📍 Area of Texas
The total area of Texas is 268,595 sqmi, of which 261,231 sqmi is land and 7,365 sqmi is water. Texas is the second largest state in the United States.
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Fun Facts About the State of Texas
🧩 Which States Border Texas
Texas borders four U.S. states. To the west is New Mexico, to the north Oklahoma, to the northeast Arkansas, and to the east Louisiana. To the south, Texas shares a border with Mexico, and to the southeast it has a 367 mi coastline along the Gulf of Mexico.
📅 Date of Texas Statehood
Texas joined the Union on December 29, 1845, as the 28th state, after the era of the Republic of Texas.
📛 Texas State Nickname
Texas is known across America as the Lone Star State. The nickname refers to the single star on the Texas flag and the state’s long history of independence. Before Texas joined the United States in 1845, it existed as an independent republic.
The Lone Star State proudly displays its nickname on all license plates.
⛰️ Highest Mountain in Texas
The highest mountain in Texas is Guadalupe Peak at 8,751 ft, located within Guadalupe Mountains National Park and part of the range of the same name.
🏞️ Rivers in Texas
The longest river in Texas is the Rio Grande with a total length of 1,896 mi. It is followed by the Red River (1,361 mi), the Pecos River (926 mi), the Canadian River (906 mi), and the Colorado River (862 mi).
🎓 Universities in Texas
The largest university in the state is Texas A&M University, founded in 1876, with around 73,000 students across multiple campuses.
In second place is Texas State University in San Marcos, with around 39,000 students. The university opened in 1899.
The third largest is Sam Houston State University, established in 1879, with about 22,000 students.
✉️ ZIP Codes in Texas
Texas ZIP codes fall within the ranges 733xx, 750xx–770xx, and 772xx–779xx. You can look up a ZIP code for a specific address on the USPS website, and read more about how the system works in the article ZIP Codes in the USA.
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Weather in Texas
The best times to visit Texas are March through May and then September through November. Temperatures in these months are more comfortable for outdoor activities, and the national parks tend to be less crowded.
Spring in Texas is usually warm, with temperatures rising from 59 °F in March to 77 °F in May. Conditions in Central Texas are especially good for outdoor activities, while the eastern part of the state sees more rain showers with occasional thunderstorms.
Summer in Texas is very hot, particularly in July and August when temperatures often exceed 86 °F and on some days can climb to 104 °F. Around the Gulf of Mexico, humidity is higher, which makes it feel even hotter. Strong thunderstorms and tornadoes can occur in the summer months.
Fall brings a drop in temperatures to between 61 °F and 72 °F, along with less rainfall than in spring. September and October are ideal months to visit the national parks.
Winter varies across the state. Northern Texas tends to be colder, with temperatures dipping below freezing and down to 18 °F. In southern Texas, freezes are less common and temperatures usually range from 50 °F to 59 °F.
🌡️ Average Temperatures and Precipitation in Texas
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What to See in Texas
1️⃣ Big Bend National Park
Big Bend is a vast national park on the Texas border with Mexico, known for its desert landscapes and high mountains. The park’s highest peak is Emory Peak at 7,825 ft.
Visitors can choose from 150 mi of hiking trails, and several campgrounds offer places to stay overnight. Thanks to very low light pollution, the park is ideal for stargazing. In summer, conditions can be extremely hot, so always bring plenty of water.
2️⃣ Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon is the second largest canyon in the United States, which earned it the nickname the Grand Canyon of Texas. The best-known rock formation is Lighthouse Rock, reached by a 6.0 mi hiking trail. There are 16 trails in total, with varying difficulty, suitable for hiking and cycling. Due to high temperatures, the park is not recommended for visits in summer.
3️⃣ The Alamo in San Antonio
The Alamo is a historic mission and fortress from 1718 that is considered a symbol of Texas independence. In 1836 it was the site of the famous Battle of the Alamo between Texan rebels and a much larger Mexican army, which captured the fort after two weeks.
For Americans, the Alamo became a symbol of resistance, which led to the subsequent revolution and the proclamation of the independent Republic of Texas. Visitors can choose from several guided tours of the fort.
4️⃣ Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park on the New Mexico border is home to the highest point in Texas, Guadalupe Peak at 8,750 ft. Several trails of varying difficulty cross the park, and conditions are good for backcountry camping. Be ready for rugged terrain and changeable weather. Wildlife includes elk, American black bears, coyotes, bobcats, and skunks.
5️⃣ Six Flags Over Texas Amusement Park
Six Flags Over Texas is one of the largest amusement parks in the state, offering around 45 attractions, including thirteen roller coasters. The coaster themes draw on comic book superheroes such as Superman, The Joker, Catwoman, Aquaman, and Batman.
The park also features popular summer water rides, plus trains and carousels for small children. It is a great place for a full day of fun for families and groups of friends.
6️⃣ Houston Zoo
Houston Zoo is one of the most visited zoos in the United States, founded in September 1922. More than 6,000 animals from 900 species live here, with favorites including anteaters, tapirs, orangutans, jellyfish, elephants, and zebras. Highlights include feeding giraffes or seeing some of the world’s most venomous snakes up close.
7️⃣ Space Center Houston
The visitor center of NASA’s Johnson Space Center in Houston is a terrific stop for families and science fans. Guests can see the authentic mission control, astronaut training facilities, space shuttles, and other interactive exhibits. Tickets often sell out quickly, so it is best to buy them online in advance.
8️⃣ SeaWorld San Antonio
SeaWorld San Antonio combines roller coasters, centrifuges, and other thrill rides with classic aquariums where visitors can see dolphins, killer whales, beluga whales, and other marine animals.
Some animals take part in shows scheduled throughout the day. Open year-round, the park is a great destination for families, offering both entertainment and education.
9️⃣ Stockyards District in Fort Worth
The Stockyards is a historic district in Fort Worth that takes visitors straight into the spirit of the Wild West. Regular cattle drives and rodeo shows are held here, and evenings bring concerts and dancing. You will also find authentic Texas restaurants, cowboy shops, and bars.
🔟 Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier
A smaller amusement park with a swing ride, a roller coaster, and a lit Ferris wheel sits on the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier southeast of Houston. Entry to the pier is free, and you pay only for rides, either individually or with a day pass.
Shops and restaurants, including Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. from the movie Forrest Gump, are also on the Gulf pier.
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Largest Cities in Texas
The table lists the ten largest cities in Texas in 2023. The source is the federal agency United States Census Bureau, whose primary task is the national census.
City County Population 1 Houston Harris, Fort Bend, Montgomery 2,314,157 Map of Houston 2 San Antonio Bexar, Comal, Medina 1,495,295 Map of San Antonio 3 Dallas Dallas, Collin, Denton, Kaufman, Rockwall 1,302,868 Map of Dallas 4 Austin Travis, Hays, Williamson 979,882 Map of Austin 5 Fort Worth Tarrant, Denton, Johnson, Parker, Wise 978,468 Map of Fort Worth 6 El Paso El Paso 678,958 Map of El Paso 7 Arlington Tarrant 398,431 Map of Arlington 8 Corpus Christi Nueces, Kleberg, San Patricio, Aransas 316,595 Map of Corpus Christi 9 Plano Collin, Denton 290,190 Map of Plano 10 Lubbock Lubbock 266,878 Map of Lubbock -
Sports Teams in Texas
🏒 Hockey (NHL)
The only Texas team in the NHL is the Dallas Stars, a club founded in 1967 and placed in the Central Division of the Western Conference. The Stars play their home games at American Airlines Center in Dallas, and the team colors are green, black, gray, and white.
🏈 American Football (NFL)
Two Texas teams play in the NFL.
The first to join, in the 1960 season, were the Dallas Cowboys of the NFC East. The club plays home games at AT\&T Stadium in Arlington, and its colors are navy blue, metallic silver, royal blue, silver-green, and white.
The second Texas NFL team, since the 2002 season, is the Houston Texans of the AFC South. Their home is NRG Stadium in Houston, and the team colors are deep steel blue, red, white, and blue.
🏀 Basketball (NBA)
Texas has three NBA teams, all in the Southwest Division of the Western Conference.
The first to join, in the 1967 season, were the Houston Rockets, who play their home games at Toyota Center in Houston. Team colors are red, black, gray, anthracite, and white.
In the 1976 season, the San Antonio Spurs joined the NBA, with team colors of silver and black. The Spurs play their home games at Frost Bank Center in San Antonio.
The third Texas NBA team, since the 1980 season, is the Dallas Mavericks. All of their home games are played at American Airlines Center in Dallas. Team colors are royal blue, silver, and black.
⚾ Baseball (MLB)
Two Texas teams play Major League Baseball. Both are in the American League West Division.
The Texas Rangers have competed since 1961, and their team colors are blue, red, and white. The Rangers play home games at Globe Life Field in Arlington.
The Houston Astros have competed in the American League since the 2013 season, after playing in the National League since 1962. The team plays home games at Minute Maid Park in Houston, and the team colors are navy blue, orange, and white.
⚽ Soccer (MLS)
Texas has three teams in Major League Soccer, all in the Western Conference.
The first MLS team, since the 1996 season, was FC Dallas, whose colors are red, blue, silver, and white. They play all home matches at Toyota Stadium in Frisco.
The second, joining in the 2006 season, is Houston Dynamo FC, which plays its home matches at Shell Energy Stadium. The Dynamo’s colors are orange, blue, and black.
The third Texas MLS team is Austin FC, which entered the league in the 2021 season. Team colors are bright green and black, and home matches are played at Q2 Stadium in Austin.
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Texas State Symbols
Texas law defines dozens of official symbols. This article lists only some of them.
State Flag of Texas
The Lone Star flag is one of the most recognizable U.S. state symbols, often flying across Texas in front of homes and shops. In a 2001 poll by the North American Vexillological Association, it ranked second most beautiful, right after New Mexico’s flag.
The Texas state flag was officially adopted on January 25, 1839, when Texas was still an independent republic. The single white star symbolizes independence. The colors stand for courage (red), purity (white), and loyalty (blue).
State Seal of Texas
The Great Seal has been used to authenticate government documents since December 29, 1845, when Texas became part of the Union. The design is based on the original seal of the Republic of Texas. The central motif is a five-pointed star encircled by an olive branch and an oak branch, symbolizing peace and strength.
State Anthem
The official state song is Texas, Our Texas, with lyrics written in 1924 by Gladys Yoakum Wright and music composed by British immigrant William J. Marsh. It became the state song after winning a statewide competition in 1929, although the authorizing law was not passed until 1993.
When Alaska became part of the United States in 1959, the lyrics changed from “largest and grandest” to “boldest and grandest,” since Texas was no longer the largest state.
State Plant
The prickly pear cactus was designated the state plant in 1995. It thrives across Texas and tolerates harsh, dry conditions, which is meant to symbolize the resilience of Texans. Its fruits and pads are common in both Texas and Mexican cuisine.
State Sport
Rodeo was declared the official state sport in 1997, highlighting its importance in Texas history and culture. Several major events are held each year, combining rodeo with music, food, and entertainment.
State Reptile
In 1993, the Texas horned lizard (Phrynosoma cornutum) was added to the list of symbols to raise awareness of its threatened status. This lizard, 9 cm to 13 cm long, is native to Texas. A remarkable defense is its ability to squirt blood from its eyes.
State Tree
Since 1919, the state tree has been the pecan (Carya illinoinensis), which is native to Texas. The pecan represents prosperity, strength, and resilience, values seen as characteristic of Texans. The designation followed the wish of former Governor James Stephen Hogg, who before his death in 1906 asked to be buried beneath a pecan tree.
State Flower
The bluebonnet (Lupinus spp.) was chosen as the state flower in March 1901 to represent the state’s natural beauty and botanical diversity.
State Fruit
In 1993, the official state fruit became the Texas red grapefruit, selected for its distinct flavor and economic significance. Texas is one of the largest grapefruit producers in the United States, and the local variety is praised for its sweetness and juiciness.
State Food
A 1977 law designated chili con carne as the official state food of Texas. This famously spicy dish typically features ground beef or lamb and chili peppers, often with tomatoes, onions, beans, and other ingredients.
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