ADVENTURE Through Texas

Lonely Planet
Lonely PlanetJun 10, 2026

Why It Matters

The piece underscores Texas’s broad tourism appeal, showing that the state can attract both adventure seekers and culture lovers, which can drive diversified economic growth across its regions.

Key Takeaways

  • Big Bend’s Santa Elena Canyon offers premier canoeing adventure.
  • Summit cabins provide desert stargazing and deluxe cave experiences.
  • Dallas’ Deep Ellum blends art with historic tintype photography.
  • Michelin‑recommended Written by the Seasons showcases seasonal Texas cuisine.
  • Reunion Tower’s Crown Block bar delivers skyline views and cocktails.

Summary

The video frames Texas as a state of dual personalities, contrasting the rugged wilderness of Big Bend National Park with the vibrant urban pulse of Dallas. It invites viewers to choose their own "way to Texas," whether that means paddling through the iconic Santa Elena Canyon or exploring city streets.

In Big Bend, the hosts canoe the canyon’s dramatic walls, then retreat to summit cabins equipped with deluxe caves and stargazing domes, emphasizing the park’s pristine natural beauty and night‑sky spectacle. The Dallas segment shifts to Deep Ellum, where a boutique offers a hands‑on tintype portrait session, followed by a meal at the Michelin‑recommended Written by the Seasons and drinks at Crown Block atop Reunion Tower, showcasing the city’s culinary and cultural flair.

Memorable moments include the host’s playful “one, two, three” cue for the tintype exposure and the description of Santa Elena as the "crown jewel" of Big Bend, underscoring the blend of historic craft and modern adventure. The visual contrast between desert horizons and skyline vistas reinforces the narrative.

By highlighting both wilderness and metropolitan experiences, the video positions Texas as a versatile travel destination, appealing to outdoor enthusiasts and urban explorers alike, and encouraging tourism that spans the state’s diverse offerings.

Original Description

Save this for when you're craving outdoor adventures and urban energy 👀 Leave it to Texas to offer up a whole lot of both – and to do it with flair. Take in views of the Dallas skyline with Katie or canoe through Big Bend’s canyons with Scott.

Comments

Want to join the conversation?

Loading comments...