Inspiration is everywhere in Houston, one of the most diverse cities in the country, making it a great spot to kick off your road trip. With 19 incredible museums in the Museum District alone, not to mention the San Jacinto Monument, you’ll never run out of amazing cultural and educational activities for the whole family. Get started with a trip to Space Center Houston, where you can go behind the scenes of science and even explore the Apollo 11 Mission Control Center.

History and entertainment are everywhere in Galveston. Explore the city’s past touring the Bishop’s Palace or strolling through one of the largest collections of Victorian buildings in the country, and then take to the Strand, Galveston’s entertainment hub, to enjoy the local cuisine and shopping. When you’re ready to search out even bolder entertainment, Galveston’s Pleasure Pier has you covered with carnival rides and games, an arcade and more.

Once you’ve made your way to Port Aransas, you’ll enjoy natural wonders both on and off the beach. Stretch your legs on the gentle coastal prairie hikes at the Port Aransas Nature Preserve or set your sights on the amazing fishing spots on either side of Mustang Island. And when you’re ready to get out on the water, join the Scarlet Lady Dolphin Watching Adventure Tour for a chance to see dolphins at play.

Corpus Christi is the perfect intersection of nature and history, so it’s sure to entertain everyone in your crew. Explore the incredible marine life at the Texas State Aquarium, including 18 exhibits, a touch pool and a playground, or dive further into the city’s past aboard the USS Lexington, a historic Word War II aircraft carrier that lives on as a museum. Of course, you can always stick to the outdoors and enjoy the beautiful beaches in this perennially popular coastal destination.