Travelkatz will put together a Texas Vacation Package custom tailored just for you. We handle all aspects of your trip so you can sit back, relax and enjoy. We provide three options for every state in the USA. If you have any questions or concerns please don’t hesitate in contacting us.
Alabama Military: Alabama is a southeastern U.S. state that’s home to significant military landmarks and events from the Civil War, World War I and World War II, all the way through history to space travel.
U.S. Veterans Memorial Museum: This Museum is operated by the Alabama Center of Military History and is dedicated to promoting and disseminating the accomplishments of American military men and women. The emphasis is on participants of World War I and subsequent conflicts. The survivors and families can use the Museum facilities to reminisce on their own experiences and those of parents, grandparents, and other close relatives. There are displays – more than 30 historical military vehicles from World War I to the present, as well as tableaus, artifacts, and other memorabilia dating back to the Revolutionary War. Supporting organizations include the 19th Alabama Infantry which sponsors exhibits from 18th and 19th Century conflicts, and the 8th Air Force Historical Society, which sponsors a Bomb Group briefing room. Both organizations support ‘living history’ presentations on many Saturdays. At the Museum is a reference library, in addition to published material such as the Seventh Army After Action Report from World War II. The library offers written and oral reminiscences of Alabama veterans. In this vein, veterans and their families are invited to send written material or audio cassette tapes to the Museum for inclusion in the library. A narrative by the veteran, or an interview by a relative, will provide a legacy of the contribution. The Museum welcomes the participation of military and veterans’ groups and individuals in making this a valued educational piece of history in Huntsville.
USS ALABAMA Battleship Memorial Park: At this Battleship Memorial Park, you don’t have to look very far to find heroes. From the Battleship USS ALABAMA to the Submarine USS DRUM and over 25 aircraft, the spirit of military pride is alive and well. Aboard the battleship you will be able to explore 12 decks. Among those, you can climb inside gun turrets, get locked in the Brig, man a 12mm gun and much more. Also at the park, you will be able to go below and explore the oldest Submarine on display, the USS DRUM. In the Medal of Honor Aircraft Pavilion as well as in the park, you will be able to view many rare and historic aircraft. A few in the collection include a A-12 Blackbird Spy Plane, OS2U Kingfisher, F-86L Sabre Jet, and B-52 Bomber, just to name a few. While in the pavilion, don’t forget to take a ride on the Flight Simulator and experience flight without ever leaving the ground. It’s an unforgettable experience for the entire family. All tours are self-guided. Allow approx. 2.5 hours to really see what it was like to be on this battleship when on active duty in Mobile.
United States Army Aviation Museum: The U.S. Army Aviation Museum maintains a collection of over 160 military aircraft, including one of the largest collections of military helicopters in the world. Approximately 50 beautifully restored, historic, and one-of-a-kind aircraft are proudly displayed both inside the Museum exhibit space and outside on the grounds. The collection includes many significant examples of early research efforts and developments in rotary wing technology and the evolution of the helicopter. Represented is the Army’s involvement in military aviation from the Wright brothers, the early combat aircraft of WW I, and today’s technological machines such as the AH-64 Apache and the UH-60 Blackhawk. You’ll find this in Ft Rucker.
The U.S. Space & Rocket Center (USSRC): This is a Smithsonian Affiliate and the Official Visitor Center for NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. On Display, they have one of the largest collections of rockets and space memorabilia anywhere in the world. Guests journey through America’s Space Race and NASA’s plan to put man on the moon. Witness the development of the space shuttle program and the International Space Station, get a glimpse of the future in commercial space ventures, and the latest technological innovations. The Rocket Center regularly features traveling exhibits from around the world. Also, enjoy daily films on the 67-foot screen in Huntsville’s only full-dome IMAX® Theater or in the 52-foot, high-definition screen in the National Geographic Theater. Finally, plan a ride on the motorcoach tour of Redstone Arsenal, headquarters to the Army Material Command and home of NASA’s Marshall Space Flight Center. Travel to Huntsville to enjoy.
Crooked Creek Civil War Museum: This is a must see if you are a Civil War buff. It’s small but it makes this time in our history come alive in Vinemont.
Travelkatz is waiting to hear from you so we can make the history of our country come alive. Call us at 352-277-7300.
GARDENS
Texas Gardens
Texas Gardens – Texas is one of our country’s biggest states. Their version of Botanical Gardens and Arboretums is along the same line…BIG! Texas is a state in the South-Central region of the United States. As you can see, at 268,596 square miles, and with more than 29.1 million residents in 2020, it is the second-largest U.S. state by both area and population.
Fort Worth Botanic Gardens: These Gardens are home to more than 2,500 species of plants with 23 specialty gardens. The Garden was established in 1934 and is the oldest major botanic garden in Texas. Make sure you plan a visit to the world-renowned Japanese Garden, as it is a living museum of art and nature. Discover spectacular gardens, exhibits, festivals, concerts, and events as well. It is like Christmas being able to see new things. Make sure you see the Butterfly Garden which is unique and fun to see the butterflies they have. Home to a rose garden, rainforest conservancy, Japanese garden, a native Texas boardwalk and other unique gardens; truly a Texas treasure since it’s the oldest botanical garden in the Lone Star State with acres to explore in Fort Worth.
Mercer Botanic Gardens: This Arboretum and Botanic Gardens are county botanical gardens with a natural and arboretum areas. Named after Thelma and Charles Mercer these Gardens entice visitors daily with free admission and 250 acres of land. Mercer Botanic Gardens is a botanic garden set within over 300 acres of riparian parkland. There are miles of walk trails. There is a lake. Nearly every plant has an identification marker so it’s a great place to get landscaping ideas or just learn the local flora. There is a long trail through the woods too so you can get a good walk in the shade. You will find this great Garden along the Cypress Creek in Humble which is near Houston.
Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden: This botanical garden isn’t only one of the best botanical gardens in the state but also the country. This Garden is more than just a beautiful garden; it’s also a leading horticultural research spot and plays host to a number of educational programs and events. On the shores of White Rock Lake, this botanical garden spans 66 acres and is home to 19 unique gardens in Dallas.
Texas Discovery Gardens: This unique garden, located on 7.5 acres in Fair Park, is the only garden in the Lone Star State that is 100% organic, therefore no chemical feed or pesticides is used to grow the plants here. Visitors will find various gardens at Texas Discovery Gardens, such as a scent garden, heirloom garden and a shade garden. Don’t miss out on the Rosine Smith Sammons Butterfly House and Insectarium found on the property, which is a two-story tropical rainforest full of butterflies, also found in Dallas.
South Texas Botanical Gardens and Nature Center: What a great place to get out and stretch your legs. Mostly dog friendly (a couple of enclosures are the only thing a pup isn’t allowed in) and it is a pleasant place to walk around for a couple hours; and the orchid house smells delightful. The parrots are very talkative, one will even wave when it says hello. With lights, trees, a petting zoo, hayrides, s’mores and cocoa, and SANTA beginning the day after Thanksgiving the garden features a huge live lighted fir tree, and “Eco Christmas Tree,” an 18’ tree of green plastic bottles that is created by environmental artist Shelia Rogers! Plan on coming during the weekends – Friday evenings or Saturdays, from Nov. 25 thru Dec. 17. This spectacular garden is found in southern Texas – Corpus Christi.
TravelKatz is looking forward to helping you and yours have a wonderful vacation in Texas. We are just a phone call away at 352-277-7300.
STATE PARKS
Texas State Parks:
Texas State Parks – Texas is in the South-Central region of the United States. At 268,596 square miles, and with more than 29.1 million residents in 2020, it is the second-largest U.S. state by both area and population. As big as it is, Texas has 54 State Parks, 2 State Forests, 2 State Historic Sites and a State Fish Hatchery.
Walnut Ridge Unit, Martin Dies JR State Park: This Park has lots to do and see. There are very nice deep woods, with large trees and great fishing, and canoeing. The trails are beautiful. There is a special activity daily hook up with electric power and water, and dumping stations located within the park. The area is expanse, so you feel almost liberated. They have numerous cites for camping that include a picnic table, water, a lantern post, a fire ring with a grill as well as restrooms with showers nearby. You will find this Park located in the Hen House and Walnut Ridge areas in Jasper.
Daingerfield State Park: This is a great little park. It’s geared towards smaller campers and tent camping which helps keep it quaint as well. The staff is friendly and helpful. The lake is beautiful with canoe, kayak, stand up paddle board, and paddle boat rentals available. There are several walking trails. There is a nice T shaped fishing dock and a fish cleaning station with running water. There is a swimming beach and an offshore swim platform. They even have ranger programs. This Park is a great place for families and is found in Morris County.
Lockhart State Park: This lush setting offering opportunities for hiking, camping, golfing, swimming & wildlife-viewing. You might be interested to know that Lockhart is famous for BBQ! No WIFI and very poor cellular service so you might want to use satellite messaging to stay in touch. They have nice trails, that are well marked, and with information signs about native plants. Cycling and dogs (on leash) on the trails. Nice 9-hole golf course with at least one par 5 hole. You might see an armadillo or a deer family while you are there. Found is Lockhart.
Guadalupe River State Park: Beautiful state park! Excellent place to take children of all ages whether you’re there to camp, hike, bike or swim. You will see amazing views and scenery. The water maybe a bit cold, but great especially if you’re active in the water and not wading. It is rocky at the bottom, mostly medium sized rocks, so we recommend water shoes if you’re going to get in the river. The trails are nice with some uphill, dirt paths. There are trails doable for beginners and children If you’re with young children, expect that you will likely have to help them. There are campsites that are wheelchair accessible but only a few areas to the river are that way. Found northwest of Bulverde.
Pedernales Falls State Park: Here at Pedernales Falls State Park, you can camp, hike, mountain bike, picnic, geocache, bird watch and ride horses. On the river, you can swim, wade, tube or fish. Look for local wildlife and plants at the bird blind and butterfly garden. You can choose a site with water and electricity or hike to a primitive site. This is a great park to bring your group to the Youth Group Camp or Equestrian Group Camp too. Choose to tube, canoe or kayak the river. Put in at the swimming area or Trammell’s Crossing Trail. For your safety, we do not allow put-ins or take-outs in the Pedernales Falls area. Found in Blanco County
TravelKatz is looking forward to helping you and your family discovery the great state parks in Texas. Just give we a call at 352-277-7300 or go to our website at www.travelkatz.com. We are here for you.
Texas Museums – Texas is a very large state famous for oil wells and cattle. Located in the South-Central Region of the United States; it is the second largest U.S. state by both area and population.
George Bush Presidential Library and Museum: This is a research institution and academic environment dedicated to the preservation, research and exhibit of official records, personal papers and memorabilia from the life and career of George H.W. Bush, the 41st President of the United States. Covering much of U.S. history since 1941, the library and museum features a World War II Avenger Torpedo Bomber, a 1947 Studebaker, a piece of the Berlin Wall, and precise replicas of President Bush’s Oval Office, Camp David office and White House Situation Room. It presents an excellent story of President George H. W. Bush’s life chronology beginning with his early childhood and parentage, and carrying on through his college life, Pacific War experiences, business experience, his political experiences, and his public service after leaving the presidency. His life story is also balanced with First Lady Barbara Bush’s life story displayed alongside his at each stage of her life and their life together. The museum also features a temporary exhibit gallery which lends to an ever-changing museum to visit in College Station.
Silent Wings Museum: I had no idea what a glider plane was until I found out about the Silent Wings Museum. What a neat part of history to learn about! There was a LOT to read with some very interesting stories including the bicycle story, the blood chits, and the opportunity to look in a full-size glider! The museum sits on the actual training bases from that era and is filled with artifacts including the gliders and equipment used during that era. Combine your ticket with a Buddy Holly Museum visit for a 50% discount. Buddy Holly Museum is right in the downtown, so you may prefer to get your tickets there before going to Silent Wings. If you love aviation and WWII plan on spending 2 hours there is a lot to see. Wonderful displays and lots of great information not covered in any other place. It is worth seeing for anyone passing thru Lubbock.
LBJ Presidential Library: This is the presidential library and museum of Lyndon Baines Johnson, the 36th President of the United States. It is one of fourteen presidential libraries administered by the National Archives and Records Administration (NARA) and located on the campus of The University of Texas at Austin. This 1970’s is imposing, but it is a newly renovated gleaming giant treasure box holds a trip through LBJ’s presidency and the Civil Rights movement of his time. Lady Bird Johnson’s office there can be seen and many interesting exhibits about their life, times and historical impact on our country. It’s worth the time to see it and it’s on University of Texas flagship campus so you can tour that as well, while you are in Austin!
Texas White House: This area is still a working cattle ranch. the tour of the area is interesting. There is a visitor center which has some interesting exhibits and a 20-minute film about LBJ and Lady Bird’s love of the Texas Hill country. The Ranger is knowledgeable and informative, taking you around the house and explaining significant areas and how LBJ governed from there. A very worthwhile visit to Johnson City.
Pioneer Museum: First see a superb 12-minute video on the birth of Fredericksburg in1846, then enjoy a self-guided tour of the grounds and glimpse into the daily lives of the German pioneers of the Texas Hill Country. The 3.5-acre grounds feature historic homesteads and buildings donated by founding families of Gillespie County. Among the historic homesteads and buildings are a one-room schoolhouse, log cabin, Sunday house, blacksmith shop, bath house, barn, smokehouse. Each showcases artifacts and architecture which help to preserve and tell the story of these pioneers. Also you may browse through the fire department museum which displays pieces of early 20th century firefighting equipment. Located in downtown Fredericksburg.
Museum of the American Railroad – Offering educational programs on the history and technology of railroading, the Museum of the American Railroad showcases collected artifacts and restored railcars that provide an understanding of the past and present of trains. This museum is located in Frisco.
Please give Travelkatz a call at 352-277-7300 or a “chat” at www.vacationnationradio.com. We will be happy to answer your questions and make a great vacation for you and your family to Texas.
Texas Festivals are events where boots are not always necessary, but if you feel more comfortable in them…go right ahead. Don’t forget to check out these festivals near the time we travel Route 66; we’ll be happy to help you schedule the events together.
Comanche Trail Festival of Lights: This festival boasts over a million lights on display in the Comanche Trail. Don’t forget to visit the gift shop and mark your calendars for Santa’s visits to the festival. The dates for the Festival will now be the first Sunday of December through Christmas. This change will give visitors six more days to celebrate the Christmas Holiday! It is a FREE event, but donations are always welcome. Comanche Trail Park, Big Spring, Every Sunday in December.
Texas Viking Festival: This annual medieval festival is held just outside of Austin in the city of Paige, Texas. Come celebrate Yule and see live demonstrations of Nordic cultures, music, food, and games. Entertainment for the entire family! (And mead… lots and lots of mead.) The second and final weekend of the 2019 Texas Viking Festival will include archery competitions, vendors, entertainment, and a special concert Saturday evening. It is open from December 21 – 22.
Parrot Festival 2020: Celebrate this Festival with us; truly the most joyful gathering of parrot enthusiasts in the world! This year will build on the blockbuster year we had last year. There will be an impressive list of speakers relative to Avian research, behavior and health. Parrot Toy University returns on Friday during a special lunch session. The Party in Parrot-dise on Friday will once again feature the Mega-Raffle extravaganza during a fantastic evening of Casino fun, all of which will go to benefit NPRPF and the organizations that the parrot festival supports. Saturday Sees the return of an expanded Parrots 101 which now includes two full sessions and four interactive micro-sessions. As usual, the best Parrot Merchandise Vendors as well as Exhibitors for great causes from around the world will be in attendance and available to you in the vendor areas. The festival will take place in the newly renovated Doubletree! The facility is modern, beautiful and expanded. Houston, January 24-26, 2020.
Choke Canyon Bird Festival 2020: This year’s Festival is organized to explore birding at Choke Canyon, highlight some terrific Texas birding and wildlife organizations, as well as hear from experts in the area. Whether you are an expert, novice, or just want to learn more about birds, we invite you to come out for a day at the park. Come out to learn a new hobby and meet others who share your passion for birds! Guided Bird Walks are on the hour and on a “first come basis;” and limited to 20 participants per group.Each walk is approximately 1 hour, and most walking is on uneven ground. Participants should be prepared for the weather and wear sturdy shoes. Festivities begin at 9am and continue thru 2pm with presentations, information, and family activities. Three Rivers, Sat, Feb 8.
Outlaws & Legends Music Festival -10th Anniversary: The Music Festival (benefitting Ben Richey Boys Ranch), returns to The Back Porch of Texas on March 19th – 21st, with the biggest line-up in our history. This awarded music festival will once again, showcase only top-notch purists in Country and Texas Country music. The Back Porch of Texas, Abilene.
Any of these festivals are within your vacation possibilities. Call TravelKatz at 352-277-7300 and we will help you plan your trip. Most travel can originate in Tampa with no problem.
San Antonio is a major city in south-central Texas with a rich colonial heritage. The city was founded in 1718 when Spanish settlers built the Mission San Antonio de Valero, today known as the Alamo, along the San Antonio River.
The Alamo: is preserved as a museum and marks an infamous 1836 battle for Texan independence from Mexico. The Alamo is best known as the site of this legendary battle. San Antonio dates the city’s founding to the opening of that mission 300 years ago. San Antonio remembered the Alamo along with the rest of its history as part of a 300th birthday celebration this past May.
Confluence and Culture: 300 Years of San Antonio History: Celebrate San Antonio’s Tricentennial at the Witte Museum for a multi-faceted exhibition that will reveal the legendary and complex history of San Antonio as the hub of the frontier. Experience how the early Spanish settlement in San Antonio influenced the layout, economic and cultural development of the city through modern times. Explore San Antonio’s history in seven immersive galleries, including The Cacophony, Frontera, The Missions, Tejano, The Military, Expansion and Industrialization and The Modern City. Discover how San Antonio’s Tejano roots have remained at the heart of the city’s identity throughout its growth and transformation. Witness the military encounters, including the Alamo, and see how San Antonio was reshaped over time. Come away comprehending a city founded in diversity and shaped by confluence and culture.
The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park maintains 4 Spanish missions in San Antonio, including the 18th-century Mission San José. Downtown’s San Fernando Cathedral is a Gothic Revival landmark, and the stately McNay Art Museum, exhibiting European and American masterpieces.
San Antonio River Walk: The San Antonio River Walk is a city park and network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, one story beneath the streets of the city. It’s a beautiful mall with history. It’s also a short walk from The Alamo. The scenery outside is great. It’s like walking into a different world, a verdant oasis of cypress-lined paved paths, arched stone bridges and lush landscapes. You get to sit and enjoy watching the boats pass by. We highly recommend taking the boat tour which is amazing and full of history.
Natural Bridge Caverns: Great place to see unique caverns here in San Antonio. The guide does an amazing job in explaining and guiding you through the tour to see all the structure and experience the caves. It is a nice walk and good exercise. It is a charge but is very well worth it! Also, if you get one of those States passport books you can get it stamped in your book because it’s one of the state’s natural wonders.
San Antonio Museum of Art: Works from Egyptian to Latin-American Egyptian, Greek, Roman, Latin American, India, Japan & contemporary collections in the former Lone Star Brewery. You could easily spend the whole day here. It’s a nice location near the river. There’s also a cafe in case you get hungry. Well worth visiting!
The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum: Curio shop with Texas-style souvenirs. Old West-themed gift store stocking cowboy hats, T-shirts, Bowie knives & other sundries. Pretty neat place to visit if you have an interest in the Texas Rangers history. The museum was quite interesting. There is a cost, but it worth it. If you are there in the summer go during the lunch hour, it makes for a great place to cool off and is less crowded. It has an awesome bar setting if you are into having a beer or drink saloon style if that is to your liking.
The San Antonio Botanical Garden showcases Texan flowers and plants. Serene spot with trails, a pond & a café. A very scenic, 38-acre area with trails, a pond, roses & native plants, a glass conservatory & a cafe.
San Antonio Zoo: Sprawling zoo with 750 species (from alligators to zebras), cageless habitats, exhibits & a train. The size and quality of the structures and living situations they have for their animals is beyond impressive. The amazing bird collection is great. In addition to the birds on display, there’s an excellent breeding program for rare species. The keepers are excellent – they know their stuff! Great at answering questions, and you can see their hearts are in their work- they truly love what they do!
HemisFair Park’s 750-ft. Tower of the Americas overlooks the city. To celebrate its 50th anniversary, the UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures will open two new exhibits reflecting on the legacy of HemisFair 1968. The tower was built for the Fair and remains as a land mark.
There are direct flights from Tampa so Just give us a call at 352-277-7300 and Travelkatz will make a memorable vacation for you and yours.
Austin was established as the state capital by the Republic of Texas in 1839, and named after Stephen F. Austin, who was considered the “founder of Anglo-American Texas.”
The Capital Building: If it’s in Texas, it must be bigger and better. That is the motto that architects followed with the Capitol Building in Austin. At one time, it was the tallest capitol building in the nation. Others might be taller now, but this is still a beautiful building that shows off many of the natural resources which are so prevalent in Texas, such as limestone and the landscapes.
Zilker Metropolitan Park: Home to Barton Springs, the Zilker Eagle, a large playscape, and four hundred acres of sports fields and woodlands, Zilker Park is a popular weekend destination. From jogging/walking/biking trails to water activities to numerous sports fields to Barton Springs pool. Great for any mix of people. Rent a kayak or standup paddle board and enjoy the water or head for Barton Springs Pool for a swim!
O Henry Museum: Such a pleasant surprise! Don’t let the size of the house fool you. There is much to see, hear and learn for both the veteran fans of O.Henry and newbies. The docents are enthusiastic to share their knowledge. You should be pleased to support with a donation at the door.
Caswell House: Caswell House is one of several homes in the downtown area that were built in the Victorian styling. Registered in the National Historic places and Texas Historic Landmark. Awesome venue for a wedding reception or business celebration.
Austin Live Music Crawl: Experience Austin’s live music scene on a 3-hour tour led by a guide who is also a local musician. Visit as many as three iconic clubs and up-and-coming venues and enjoy hearing live music with a group of fun fellow travelers. This was outstanding. You visit three separate night spots and they are a blast, but now handicap friendly.
LBJ Presidential Library: You can spend an afternoon exploring the library. Whatever your political persuasion, you will learn a lot. If you lived through the sixties, it is a great history review. There are fun exhibits with 60s TV commercials playing and other pop culture from those years. Building is beautiful- exhibits were well done. Lots of fascinating, important history, and don’t miss the animatronic talking LBJ.
Texas Military Forces Museum: The Texas Military Forces Museum is free to visit! Located on an actual active state forces camp, the military has vehicles, weapons and other artifacts from Texas independence wars up to the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Their collection of tanks, aircraft carriers, and massive weapons is incredible! The volunteers there are wonderful and happy to take you around and talk about their favorite parts! You also get a good feel for a military base as it is a functioning base.
Austin Children’s Museum: It is a fun place for kids and adults alike. We can spend a good 2 hours here and we don’t even notice we’ve been here that long. The place is clean, new and lots of hands on activities for kids! The water room and the kitchen/produce play space are particularly fun.
There are direct flights from Tampa to Austin so give us a call and Travelkatz will make your vacation to Austin a memorable family experience. 352-277-7300
Another option for our Texas Vacation Package is the Natural Wonder. See our selection of choice below to see if it fancies your style. Please don’t hesitate in contacting us with any questions or concerns.
The massive pink granite dome rising above Enchanted Rock State Natural Area formed a billion years ago, when a large pool of magma buoyed above the Earth’s surface, cooled, and slowly turned to granite. It’s an exfoliation dome, meaning it has layers like an onion.
