MILESTONES

The 100th anniversary celebration of Route 66 is scheduled for 2026

Route 66, also known as the Will Rogers Highway, is one of the most well-known and historic highways in the United States. It spans approximately 2,449 miles, running from Chicago, Illinois, to Santa Monica, California. Amarillo, Texas is one of the most well-known stops on Route 66 thanks to the iconic Cadillac Ranch and Big Texan Steak Ranch and Microbrewery. The annual Texas Route 66 Festival in Amarillo celebrates this iconic highway and its place in pop culture with the 2026 festival, taking place June 4 - 13, set to be bigger and better in celebration of the Mother Road’s milestone year.

The State Fair of Texas will mark its 140th anniversary in 2026

The nation’s first and oldest state fair is held annually at Fair Park in Dallas and brings together creative arts contests, food competitions, live music performances and livestock shows.

Texas A&M University 150th anniversary 

Texas A&M University will celebrate its 150th anniversary with festivities kicking off the week of October 4, 2026. Founded in 1876 as the state’s first public institution of higher education, the university has grown into a globally recognized campus community of more than 81,000 students and 4,300 faculty, drawing visitors for campus tours, athletics, traditions and major events year-round.

Gaido’s Seafood celebrates 115 years

Galveston will mark two major anniversaries in 2026 as Gaido’s Seafood celebrates 115 years as a family-owned staple for fresh Gulf seafood. The legacy restaurant was recently honoured with the James Beard Foundation’s America’s Classic Award. The historic Grand Galvez hotel also commemorates 115 years since opening in 1911, continuing its legacy as the “Queen of the Gulf” following extensive restorations that highlight its original architectural grandeur.

Austin’s SXSW 40th anniversary

Celebrating its 40th anniversary, Austin’s SXSW will mark its most ambitious edition yet from March 12–18, 2026. The festival will fully integrate its Music, Film & TV and Innovation programs across downtown, expand to seven nights of live music showcases and introduce new immersive “creative village” zones that underscore its evolution from a regional music gathering into a global celebration of culture, technology and creativity.

Messina Hof will celebrate 50 years of winemaking in 2027

Messina Hof will celebrate 50 years of winemaking in 2027, having grown from a one-acre experimental vineyard in Bryan in 1977 into one of Texas’ most awarded wineries, now a second-generation family operation with four locations statewide welcoming visitors for tastings, tours and events.

OUTDOORS

Enchanted Rock State Park Doubling in Size

Texas Parks and Wildlife recently purchased a 3,073-acre property adjacent to Enchanted Rock State Natural Area in Llano County, near Fredericksburg. This acquisition will double the amount of publicly available land at one of Texas most popular state parks. The land features a rock formation that could provide a new scenic vantage point of the iconic pink granite dome the park is named for. The land will also help conserve the night sky viewshed in the region. The recreational plan and opening date are yet to be announced.

Palo Pinto State Park

Texas’ newest state park will encompass 4,871 acres of former ranch land, 75 miles west of the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex. Once developed, this rugged, beautiful park will offer hiking, horseback riding, mountain biking, camping, fishing, stargazing and other outdoor activities. Uplift and erosion over eons formed the park’s mountains, which today offer scenic vistas overlooking sheltered canyons.

CONVENTION CENTER UPDATES

Austin Convention Center Redevelopment & Airport Expansion

Austin plans to redevelop and expand its existing convention center, delivering a larger, more efficient facility on a smaller footprint in downtown Austin. Construction on the more active, community-friendly event space began in spring 2025. The expansion comes as the city is also expanding and enhancing Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.

Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas to Undergo $3.7 Billion Expansion

Following the 2026 FIFA Men’s World Cup, when the convention center will serve as host to the International Broadcast Center, Dallas’ Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center will be demolished and replaced by a new, larger facility as part of a $3.7 billion master plan to anchor a walkable downtown district. The next-generation venue will feature 2.1 million square feet of total space, including 750,000 square feet of exhibit space, 180,000 square feet of meeting rooms and a 105,000 square-foot ballroom, plus outdoor event terraces and skyline-view plazas.

George R. Brown Convention Center in Houston to Receive $2 Billion Transformation:

The George R. Brown Convention Center (GRB) is set to undergo a major transformation that will reimagine downtown Houston into a pedestrian-friendly convention and entertainment district. The first phase of development includes a 700,000-square-foot building, GRB Houston South, which will serve as a key connector between downtown and Houston’s East End. The building will include two exhibit halls, a multipurpose hall opening to the new Central Plaza, an atrium flex hall, ground-level retail and dining spaces and what is set to be the largest ballroom in Texas. Additionally, the Avenida Plaza will be extended south to connect Discovery Green with the new Central Plaza, creating an expanded gathering space for large-scale events and community activities.

SPORTS

FIFA World Cup 26TM Comes to Texas in 2026

Sixteen of the biggest matches of the highly anticipated 2026 World Cup will take place in Texas. Arlington will stage nine matches, including four knockout games in the latter stages of the tournament and one semi-final. The Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center will serve as the tournament’s official International Broadcast Center, cementing Dallas as the global media hub for billions of viewers worldwide. Houston will host seven matches, including one in the round of 32 and one in the round of 16.

Grand Prix of Arlington to Debut in March 2026

This all-new INDYCAR street race will take place on a 2.73-mile track layout set to feature two Texas sporting venues recognized by fans around the world: AT&T Stadium, home of the National Football League’s Dallas Cowboys and Globe Life Field, home of Major League Baseball’s Texas Rangers. The track will also weave through Arlington’s core sports and entertainment district.

Dallas Open Moves to The Star in Frisco

The Dallas Open moved from Southern Methodist University to Ford Center at The Star in Frisco in 2025 in conjunction with the tournament’s upgrade to the ATP 500 level in 2025. The move allows the tournament to continue to grow and attract more high-profile players as one of only 16 global events at the 500-level.

Cricket in Grand Prairie

The globally popular game of cricket is rapidly gaining popularity in the United States, and Grand Prairie is becoming a major hub for the sport. The Metroplex city redeveloped its Grand Prairie Stadium to be a premier cricket facility capable of hosting elite international matches. The 7,200-seat venue recently hosted the 2024 ICC Twenty-Twenty Men’s World Cup and serves as home to the Texas Super Kings, one of only six Major League Cricket teams in the country.

Garland to Welcome New USL Soccer Team in 2027

The United Soccer League and the City of Garland are introducing North Texas’s newest professional soccer team. Joining the nation’s largest and fastest-growing soccer organization, the team will bring high-level competition, community engagement and exciting entertainment to Garland and the surrounding area.

Diamondback Energy Athletic Complex Opening in 2026 (Midland)

This newly constructed 120,000-square-foot indoor multisport venue is designed with tournament play and fan experience in mind, featuring six full-size basketball courts, 12 regulation volleyball courts, two indoor turf fields for soccer and futsal, locker rooms, elevated spectator seating, concessions, player lounges, meeting rooms, a pro shop and an outdoor patio. Operating on an open-gym model with free, non-membership access for local youth, the complex will serve as a hub for regional and national tournaments, youth leagues and multi-day sporting events.

ATTRACTION OPENINGS

2027, Alamo Visitor Center and Museum (San Antonio)

The Alamo’s 300-year history is set to be told like never before. The new visitor center and museum will offer a transformative, world-class experience, inviting guests to explore the iconic site. With nearly 160,000 square feet of space, the state-of-the-art facility will combine historical storytelling with cutting-edge immersive elements, including a 4D theatre and special event spaces.

Spring 2026, Universal Kids Resort (Frisco)

Universal Parks & Resorts will bring a new park concept designed to inspire fun for families with young children. The concept, set in a lush green landscape, will be full of family-friendly attractions, interactive and playful shows, character meet and greets, unique merchandise and fun food and beverage venues designed to delight even the youngest park goers. An on-site, 300-room hotel will give families a place to stay and play.

Spring 2026, Quinta Mazatlan Expansion (McAllen)

McAllen’s urban ecology center, Quinta Mazatlan, is undergoing a $52 million expansion that will create a research lab, education center, and Children's Discovery Center, as well as meeting/conference and event space. Designed by Overland Partners, the expansion
will aid in Quinta Mazatlan’s mission to enrich people’s lives by sharing knowledge about birds, plants and environmental stewardship in South Texas.

2026, Sunset Amphitheatre (McKinney)

Now under construction, the Sunset Amphitheater will be a multi-season, 20,000-seat flagship venue configurable to roughly 5,000 seats. Anticipated to host more than 70 shows a year, the canopied, upscale outdoor venue will position McKinney as a destination for major concerts and open-air entertainment.

2026, Cannon Beach Surf & Adventure Park (McKinney)

This $200 million, 35-acre development will introduce a family-friendly, four-acre surf lagoon, resort-style hotel, and a mix of dining, entertainment and business spaces to North Texas.

December 2025, Netflix House at Galleria Dallas

Netflix House will bring the magic of your favourite Netflix stories and characters to life year-round. This permanent entertainment venue will feature regularly updated immersive experiences, dining inspired by popular series and films and exclusive retail offerings. As the first Netflix House in Texas and one of only two in the United States, it promises an unforgettable destination for fans to explore and celebrate the world of Netflix.

December 2025, George H.W. Bush Gallery Renovation at National Museum of the Pacific War (Fredericksburg)

The only museum in the continental U.S. solely dedicated to telling the story of World War II in the Pacific, the National Museum of the Pacific War will unveil a major renovation of its George H.W. Bush Gallery, coinciding with the 80th anniversary of the war’s end. This transformative project enhances the museum’s storytelling with cutting-edge interactive technology, updated exhibits and deeper historical interpretation, honouring the bravery and sacrifices of those who served.

November 2026, New Cruise Port Opens in Galveston:

Galveston is home to the fourth busiest cruise port in the U.S. The city recently opened a new cruise terminal and welcomed MSC Cruises as a new line departing from the destination. MSC joins Princess, Carnival, Royal Caribbean, Norwegian and Disney cruise lines at Galveston’s ports.

November 2025, Ismali Center Houston

Overlooking Buffalo Bayou at the intersection of Montrose Boulevard and Allen Parkway, the Ismaili Center was commissioned by the Aga Khan, the spiritual leader of the Shia Ismaili Muslim faith. With a focus on creating environments that encourage mutual understanding and sharing of perspectives from across diverse faiths, six Ismaili Centers operate in highly diverse cities around the world. The Houston center will be the first in the U.S. and include elaborate gardens, giant light-filled atriums and numerous rooms dedicated to specific events.

November 2025, Washington-on-the-Brazos Renovations Complete

A cornerstone of Texas history, Washington-on-the-Brazos is where delegates signed the Texas Declaration of Independence in 1836. Following a transformative $54 million investment in the state historic site, the Star of the Republic Museum and Visitor Center has reopened with immersive theatres showcasing rare artifacts, updated interactive exhibits and an expanded family gallery that brings to life the story of Texas as an independent nation.

May 2025, Ottine Mineral Springs (Gonzales)

A source of bubbling spring water since the early 1900s, Ottine Mineral Springs has reopened for public use following a major expansion. The revitalized wellness retreat now features five new mineral pools, saunas, cabanas, massage rooms and an on-site restaurant and bar, along with yoga, forest bathing, and guided meditation offerings.

March 2025, National Medal of Honor Museum (Arlington)

The National Medal of Honor Museum serves as the premier national institution dedicated to the stories, impact and legacy of the service members who went on to become Medal of Honor recipients. Here, Americans will gather to pay tribute to our country’s bravest heroes. The 25,000-square-foot building will include exhibition galleries, an education center, and conference and event space.

March 2025, Sea Turtle Inc. Completes Sea Turtle Hospital

Sea Turtle Inc., a nonprofit dedicated to rescuing and rehabilitating injured sea turtles, is transforming its original 1999 facility into the world’s largest fully enclosed sea turtle hospital. The 15,000-square-foot state-of-the-art facility will allow visitors to observe surgeries, physical therapy, CT scans and X-rays in real time, while also offering interactive lessons on rehabilitation and medical care. This milestone project supports the conservation of species like the endangered Kemp’s Ridley turtle and sets the stage for the nonprofit’s 50th anniversary celebration in 2027.

March 2025, Peppa Pig Theme Park (North Richland Hills)

Merlin Entertainment has opened North America’s second Peppa Pig Theme Park in North Richland Hills. The park features five rides, a Muddy Puddles Splash Pad, seven themed “playscapes” and live shows aimed at preschoolers and their families.

February 2025, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park World Heritage Center

The new World Heritage Center serves as a gateway to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. It provides educational opportunities and information on the history, art, and culture of the community around the missions and will be a place for San Antonio residents and visitors to gather.

FOOD & DRINK

Michelin Guide Texas

In October 2025, the MICHELIN Guide Texas revealed its second annual restaurant selection. Across the state, 140 restaurants were honoured, spanning 33 cuisine types. The 2025 selection honours 140 restaurants across the state, celebrating three new One MICHELIN Star restaurants and two new Green Star additions that highlight culinary innovation and sustainability at the forefront of the industry. Texas continues to rise as a global culinary destination, drawing praise and expanded recognition from the famously anonymous MICHELIN Inspectors. In addition to the top distinctions, eight new restaurants earned the Bib Gourmand distinction for great food at a great value, and 16 new eateries were recognized as Recommended, showcasing the remarkable depth and diversity of Texas’s culinary talent.

One Star Restaurants:

• New Additions:
  • Mamani (Dallas)
  • Nicōsi (San Antonio)
  • Isidore (San Antonio
• Returning:
  • Barley Swine (Austin)
  • Craft Omakase (Austin)
  • Hestia (Austin)
  • InterStellar BBQ (Austin)
  • la Barbecue (Austin)
  • LeRoy and Lewis Barbecue (Austin)
  • Olamaie (Austin)
  • Tatsu (Dallas)
  • BCN Taste & Tradition (Houston)
  • Le Jardinier (Houston)
  • March (Houston)
  • Musaafer (Houston)
  • Tatemó (Houston)
  • Mixtli (San Antonio)
  • CorkScrew BBQ (Spring)
• Green Star Restaurants:
  • New Additions:
    • Nixta Taqueria (Austin) – Sourcing hyper-locally, Nixta Taqueria crafts tortillas
      from heirloom Oaxacan corn milled in-house, while building direct relationships
      with small Texas farmers and producers to minimize waste and celebrate cultural
      heritage.
    • Isidore (San Antonio) – Honored for its local sourcing and sustainability ethos,
      Isidore procures meat and seafood from Texas ranches and the Gulf, prioritizing
      underutilized by-catch and small, independent growers.
  • Returning Honorees:
    • Dai Due (Austin): Nearly all ingredients are sourced from Texas. Preservation is
      key and the restaurant utilizes drying, canning, pickling, fermenting, smoking,
      candying and freezing techniques to minimize waste.
    • Emmer & Rye (Austin): Majority of products on the menu come from within
      Texas and their own partner farm that is no-till and organically fertilized. Other
      efforts include whole animal usage and a bar program that features cocktails
      containing house-made vinegars, preserved local bar cherries and bitters also
      made with Texas ingredients.

The MICHELIN Guide Texas Storylines

• Texas’ culinary landscape is as diverse as Texas itself. Across 33 cuisine types and several different regions of the state, the MICHELIN Guide Texas continues to showcase a culinary scene that is asambitious, creative and multicultural as the state it represents.
• Texas barbecue continues to hold its own among fine dining with InterStellar, LeRoy and Lewis, la Barbecue and CorkScrew maintaining their Stars. Michelin-recognized smokehouses illustrate the technique, time, and terroir that define a cuisine integral to the state’s culinary identity.
• With Isidore and Nicōsi both earning Stars, San Antonio emerged as a major culinary powerhouse this year, blending heritage and innovation to define a new era of haute cuisine.
• Celia Pellegrini, sommelier and director of operations at Este and Suerte, received Michelin’s Sommelier Award Known for inventive pairings that complement coastal Mexican flavors, she reflects Austin’s growing sophistication in food and beverage.

Notable restaurant and bar openings and culinary storylines:

All openings forthcoming or from within the last year.

• Sauvage, the newest project from husband-and-wife team Casey and Amy La Rue, has opened as one of Dallas’ most intimate fine-dining experiences, offering just 12 seats and a highly curated tasting menu. The concept builds on the couple’s legacy from Carte Blanche and La Rue Doughnut.
• The legendary Austin BBQ chain Terry Black’s Barbecue is expanding into New Braunfels with a new 8,600-sq-ft facility slated to open late 2026, adding to its Texas footprint and intensifying one of the state’s iconic barbecue rivalries.
• A new Asian-inspired cocktail bar called Jue Let has opened in the Pearl district of San Antonio, from chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin of Best Quality Daughter. The venue blends Chinese heritage, Texan influences and Asian nightlife aesthetics, with inventive cocktails, elevated bar snacks and immersive details such as karaoke lounges and vintage-inspired décor.
• A new Asian-inspired cocktail bar called Jue Let has opened in the Pearl district of San Antonio, from chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin of Best Quality Daughter. The venue blends Chinese heritage, Texan influences and Asian nightlife aesthetics, with inventive cocktails, elevated bar snacks and immersive details such as karaoke lounges and vintage-inspired décor.
• After bidding farewell to its longtime downtown Bryan space in 2025, Ronin has reemerged on the historic farm where the concept was born, marking a powerful return to its roots for husband-and-wife duo Brian and Amanda Light.
• Kirkwood, a modern supper club from the Mac Haik Restaurant Group, will honor its founder’s legacy as a Houston sports icon and entrepreneur. Executive chef Stephen Chiang will showcase classic American dishes, complemented by an Old Fashioned–led cocktail program, all set within a stylish Gin Design Group space featuring automotive-inspired touches and an Astrodome-inspired art installation.
• A new chapter in refined lunch and brunch has arrived in Fort Worth: Café Mirador at Forty Five Ten, the boutique-meets-restaurant concept that brings Dallas hits to the heart of the Cultural District. The intimate space blends progressive American cuisine, elevated cocktails and a gallery-like backdrop.
• Texas Clear Water Oysters in Port Aransas is pairing fresh, farm-raised Gulf oysters with sustainable practices like floating cages that protect natural reefs and speed oyster growth. Through the Sink Your Shucks shell-recycling program and other water-friendly farming methods, this family-owned operation is helping restore coastal habitats.

HOTEL DEVELOPMENT

Across the state, new hotels are opening while others are receiving major renovations – from luxury urban properties to charming boutique hotels in the scenic countryside.

2028, The Baker Hotel (Mineral Wells)

A celebrated Mineral Wells landmark since 1929, the Baker Hotel and Spa is being historically renovated and restored to once again become a premier resort destination. The process to preserve the 165-room property is being documented through film and photography, and future guests are invited to follow along on the hotel’s website.

2028, Chisos Mountain Lodge at Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park will begin a transformative project in May 2026 to replace the aging Chisos Basin Lodge with a modern facility. The new lodge will include a dining room, lobby, store, restrooms, and terrace, blending into the landscape while meeting high energy and water efficiency standards. The project also includes upgrades to water systems, ADA accessibility, pathways, and visitor amenities, such as new exhibits and electric vehicle charging stations. While the Chisos Basin area will close for two years, the rest of the park’s 800,000 acres, trails, and attractions will remain open for visitors to enjoy.

2027, The Birdsall Residences (Houston)

Located in the River Oaks neighbourhood, this 105-room luxury property is set to open under the Auberge Resorts Collection.

2027, The Gage (Marathon)

Los Arcos, a new Spanish-inspired, two-story addition, will introduce 24 luxury rooms, including suites with rooftop gardens, to this historic West Texas property.

2027, El Cosmico 2.0 (Marfa)

The relocation and expansion of El Cosmico to more than 60 acres on the outskirts of Marfa will showcase entirely new architectural approaches made possible by large-scale 3D printing, including domes, arches, vaults and parabolic forms. In addition to 3D printed accommodations, the new El Cosmico will feature most of the trailers and tends from the previous property, as well as a restaurant, pool, spa and shared communal facilities.

2027, Miyako Hybrid Hotel Plano

This 350,000 square-foot property will be the first Miyako Hybrid Hotel in Texas and the brand’s third in the United States. The planned 217-room hotel will blend Japanese-inspired design with Texas warmth, featuring a rooftop bar and restaurant, a Japanese-style spa and meeting spaces tailored to corporate travellers, all built with a focus on sustainability and omotenashi-driven service.

2026, 1 Hotel Austin

The luxury eco-lifestyle brand’s first Texas property is set to become the tallest building in Texas at 1,022 feet. The 251-room hotel will offer views of Lady Bird Lake and the Hill Country.

2026, Hotel Trinity (Austin)

This 13-story, 258-room addition to the Autograph Collection will be located at the corner of Trinity and Fifth Streets in downtown Austin. Among those rooms are 20 residentially styled luxury suites. Amenities include a rooftop pool, social club, fitness center, high-end seafood restaurant, oyster bar and 6,600 square feet of event space.

2026, The Driskill Hotel (Austin)

A cornerstone of Austin hospitality since 1866, The Driskill Hotel is undergoing a careful restoration set to offer a modern take on the property’s historic soul. Renovations are expected to be completed in time for the hotel’s 140th anniversary in December 2026.

2026, The Knox (Dallas)

Auberge Resorts Collection is set to bring a new level of luxury to Dallas’ Knox Street neighbourhood. This urban retreat will feature 140 rooms and suites, along with 48 private residences envisioned by Dallas designer Chad Dorsey. Guests can expect standout culinary experiences, a modern fitness center and direct access to the Katy Trail. Just steps off the trail, the Auberge Spa will offer all-natural, holistic treatments, complemented by a movement studio and outdoor pool.

2026, Universal Kids Resort (Frisco)

This first-of-kind, 300-room resort is designed and developed for families with young children and will be tied to the all-new Universal park, also geared towards this audience. The resort is set to offer Universal’s iconic brand of adventure and fun, bringing to life beloved characters and stories in ways that will wow the youngest theme park goers in an inclusive way. Renderings available here.

2026, Hotel Vin Expansion (Grapevine)

The chic boutique hotel on Grapevine’s Main Street is set to add 121 additional rooms, a new spa, outdoor pool and additional meeting space to host events up to 300 people.

2026, The Faust Hotel (New Braunfels)

Originally built in 1929 and once known as The Traveler’s Hotel, The Faust Hotel is a historic landmark in downtown New Braunfels. A $3.5 million renovation is underway to preserve the hotel’s 1920s charm while introducing modern updates, including a new bar, kitchen and European-style brasserie. Refurbished guest rooms will feature updated amenities, with plans for additional suites and expanded room options.

2026, The Monarch (San Antonio)

Located at Hemisfair, this new 200-room, 17-story Curio Collection by Hilton hotel will showcase interiors that reflect the journey of its namesake butterfly. In addition to luxury guest rooms, the hotel will feature a modern full-service spa, a terrace pool, five food and beverage concepts with indoor and outdoor service, including a rooftop restaurant and bar and a basement speakeasy, as well as a garden area, fitness center and approximately 10,000 square feet of meeting and event space.

2026, Morgan’s Hotel (San Antonio)

This new hotel aims to transform the hospitality industry with its Ultra-AccommodatingTM approach. By combining intentional design, advanced technology, and a highly responsive staff, the hotel goes beyond standard ADA requirements to deliver a thoughtful, personalized experience for guests of all ages and abilities. Morgan’s HotelTM will feature more than 90 spacious, accessible rooms, digital room keys, voice-activated controls and an AI-powered concierge that tailors each stay to individual needs. With private entrances, extra-wide hallways and sound-absorbing décor, every detail supports comfort and inclusivity. All net proceeds will benefit the nonprofit Morgan’s.

December 2025, Hotel Daphne (Houston)

Bunkhouse’s second project in Houston is a sophisticated yet relaxing place for visitors and the local community in The Heights neighbourhood. It features painted brick, stepped parapets and steel windows, blending Arts and Crafts style with Folk Victorian architecture. It has 49 rooms and suites in its five stories and also has an all-day restaurant, bar and lounge, courtyard, pool and pool bar, a library and a lobby retail shop.

Summer 2025, Hotel Lydia (Port Aransas)

An expansion and rebrand of the former Place at Port Aransas, Hotel Lydia brings newly renovated rooms to the Gulf Coast. Inspired by the Lydia Ann Lighthouse, the second-oldest lighthouse in Texas, the hotel pays tribute to the landmark and also has views of the landmark from select rooms.

May 2025, Indian Lodge at Davis Mountains State Park

Nestled in West Texas’s Davis Mountains and originally built by the Civilian Conservation Core in the 1930s, Indian Lodge reopened in May 2025 following a $3.5 million renovation. The refresh includes major infrastructure upgrades, swimming pool refurbishment, a redesigned courtyard landscaping and enhanced accessibility, while also preserving historic features like the white adobe walls and hand-carved cedar furniture. The 39-room lodge and its beloved Black Bear restaurant are once again welcoming guests to this serene mountain retreat.

May 2025, Hyatt Hill Country Resort and Spa (San Antonio)

Five brand-new luxury villas, each with four bedrooms, private bathrooms, shared living spaces and exclusive amenities like a dedicated villa host and access to the renovated Windflower Spa will open in time for Memorial Day. The debut marks the latest phase in the resort’s multi-year transformation, which will continue into 2026 with the addition of a 2.2-acre Crystal Lagoon® featuring white sand beaches, water sports and a new poolside dining venue, plus a 5,600-square-foot indoor outdoor event barn overlooking the lagoon. Images available here.

May 2025, The Summit at Big Bend

Stargazer Deluxe Suites are now open at The Summit at Big Bend. These expansive domes, double the size of their predecessors, feature private ensuite bathrooms, upstairs lofts, king-size beds, sleeper sofas and panoramic bay windows that frame the West Texas night skies. Guests can enjoy modern comforts such as air conditioning, heating, strong Wi-Fi and in-room amenities including a fridge, air fryer, and Magic Bullet blender. Outside, each suite boasts a private patio with a firepit, perfect for stargazing in one of the darkest skies in the U.S. Images available here.

May 2025, The Nobleman Fort Worth

Part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection, The Nobleman Fort Worth brings stylish accommodations to the Near Southside neighbourhood. The hotel features 153 guest rooms and suites, including 32 extended-stay options with kitchenettes. Guests can enjoy an outdoor pool, fitness center and approximately 1,500 square feet of meeting and event space. The Nobleman’s on-site restaurant, Duchess, is set to offer New American cuisine with a Texas twist, conceptualized by chef Casey Thompson.

January 2025, The Albert Hotel (Fredericksburg)

Now open in Texas wine country, The Albert Hotel is Fredericksburg’s first full-service hotel. Located on historic Main Street, it features 110 total guest rooms, including bunkrooms, suites, and a private house, plus three restaurants, one bar, three retail outlets and full-service spa.

ANNUAL EVENT SAMPLER

Round Top Antiques Festival, Winter Show Jan. 22 - 24, 2026; Spring Show March 22 - 28, 2026; Fall Show

TBA: One of the largest antiques shows in the United States, the Round Top Antiques Show has over 65 venues in approximately a 20-mile radius in the towns of Round Top, Warrenton, Carmine, Burton and Fayetteville. Shoppers will find everything from high-end furniture to vintage neon signs from vendors spread across fields, tents and barns.

Mardi Gras (Galveston), Feb. 6 - 17, 2026

Galveston is home to the third-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the country. The multi-day event features several parades, live entertainment, street food vendors and plenty of beads. Most events take place in Galveston’s historic downtown area.

Charro Days (Brownsville), Feb. 26 - 28, 2026

Charro Days is a binational fiesta that celebrates the Mexican heritage of the region. More than 50,000 attendees enjoy daily parades, music, contests and the Sombrero Festival during this annual festival that’s been held in the city since 1938.

SXSW (Austin), March 12 - 18, 2026

SXSW is an annual event that highlights discovery, learning, music, film and innovation. People come from all over the world to attend concerts, private events, public activations, keynote panels and film screenings.

SXSW (Austin), March 12 - 18, 2026

SXSW is an annual event that highlights discovery, learning, music, film and innovation. People come from all over the world to attend concerts, private events, public activations, keynote panels and film screenings.

The Birdiest Festival (Corpus Christi), April 22 - 26, 2026

Calling all birders to experience spring migration in the busiest flyway in the country. Hear from nationally-recognized experts and take field trips to coastal hotspots not open to the public at this event curated by the South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center.

Fiesta San Antonio, April 16 - 26, 2026

Fiesta San Antonio is an 11-day citywide celebration of San Antonio's heritage and culture. What started in 1891 with one small parade has transformed into the city’s largest city-wide party with a purpose.

Sandfest (Port Aransas), April 17 - 19, 2026

Texas SandFest is the largest native-sand sculpture competition in the U.S. What began as a small local competition in 1997 has grown into an internationally recognized three-day family event that draws renowned sand sculptors and tens of thousands of visitors from around the world each year to Port Aransas.

MXLAN (McAllen), May 2026, Dates TBA

MXLAN is a three-day art and music festival celebrating young Latino culture. Attendees can catch performances from rising artists, eat and drink at culinary events, shop an artisan mercado, walk in street parades and more during this immersive festival that embodies the culture of South Texas.

Juneteenth (Statewide)

Galveston, where the announcement of freed slaves was made in 1865, is considered the birthplace of Juneteenth. This city honours the historic events with annual celebrations, year-round tours and exhibits such as "And Still We Rise" at the 1859 Ashton Villa and the "Absolute Equality Mural" in downtown. In Fort Worth, Opal Lee, affectionately known as the "Grandmother of Juneteenth" for her efforts to establish Juneteenth as a federal holiday, leads an annual 2.5-mile walk through the city's Historic Southside, symbolizing the over two-year delay in freeing the enslaved in the South after the Emancipation Proclamation. Across Texas, cities host celebrations, commemorating the enduring spirit surrounding Juneteenth.

TEXAS Outdoor Musical (Canyon), Summer 2026, Dates TBA

Every summer since 1966, theatre lovers have watched the outdoor musical “Texas” against the backdrop of Palo Duro Canyon. Just 45 minutes south of Amarillo, The Pioneer Amphitheatre is nestled in the nation's second-largest canyon. The 12 stories, struggles and triumphs of life for the Panhandle’s early settlers, cowboys and Native Americans come to life in this play written by Pulitzer Prize-winning playwright Paul Green.

Viva! El Paso, Summer 2026, Dates TBA

This annual musical celebrates the region's rich history and brings to life the stories of the Native American, Spanish Conquistador, Mexican and Western American cultures through dance, drama, narration and music at the McKelligon Canyon Amphitheatre.

Viva Big Bend, July 22 - 26, 2026

Celebrate Texas music in one of its most iconic places at Viva Big Bend. Returning for its 15th year in 2026, this annual event features more than 65 shows in more than a dozen venues in Alpine, Marathon, Marfa, and Fort Davis. All the great music is set in the big and beautiful Big Bend region, providing a spectacular backdrop to a fantastic event.

GrapeFest (Grapevine), Sept. 17 - 20, 2026

The largest wine festival in the Southwest, GrapeFest, returns for its 40th year in 2026. This four-day annual celebration offers wine tastings, live music, carnival rides and games, arts and crafts, food vendors and shopping.

World Wellness Weekend (Mineral Wells), September 2026

The Wellness Capital of Texas will celebrate this worldwide celebration with three days of free and fun activities to promote well-being, including invigorating fitness classes and mindfulness sessions. Mineral Wells also celebrates Crazy Wellness Day on June 8, in conjunction with Global Wellness Day.

The State Fair of Texas (Dallas) Sept. 25 - Oct. 18, 2026

Known as the largest and longest-running state fair in the U.S., the State Fair of Texas brings together all the best parts of the state, including creative arts contests, food competitions, music and livestock shows. Visitors shouldn’t miss Big Tex, a 55-foot (17m) tall figure and symbol of the State Fair of Texas and can enjoy fair staples such as the funnel cake, bacon queso burger or deep-fried chicken noodle soup.

Austin City Limits, Oct. 2 - 4 & 9 - 11, 2026

ACL Festival features a diverse lineup of acts every year with 9 stages, 100+ performances — and best of all, two weekends.

Texas Rose Festival (Tyler), October 2026, Dates TBA

Since its beginning in 1933, the Texas Rose Festival has represented the spirit that brings Tyler together as a community. Rich in heritage and tradition, the festival offers enchanting ceremonial events – the Queen’s Coronation, Ribbon Cutting and Rose Presentation, the Queen’s Tea, and the Rose Parade – all amidst a backdrop of brilliant roses as vibrant and colourful as the community they represent. The Texas Rose Festival is held the third weekend of October every year. This year marks the 90th anniversary of the celebration.

Terlingua International Chili Cookoff, November 2026, Dates TBA

Each year, Terlingua hosts the ultimate celebration of Chili. This granddaddy of all chili cook-offs is a four-day celebration where amateur and professional cooks who have qualified from over 500 different chili events throughout the year hope to win the title of best chili. However, there are other food contests occurring at this chili cook-off, such as salsa contests, a hot wing contest, and a bean contest.

Wurstfest (New Braunfels), Nov. 6 - 15, 2026

An annual celebration rich in German culture and full of Texas fun. Located near the headwaters of the beautiful Comal River in New Braunfels. The festival features good food, music, dancing, exciting carnival rides and games, German, Texan and domestic beer, special events and the finest in Alpine and Bavarian Style Entertainment.