The Best Summer. Ever.

Is that a promise? Or a challenge?

Summer definitely presents an opportunity: A decision to enjoy this one as the best ever. Start with this month's magazine as your inspiration. Consider the cover. In our review, every aspect of the photograph—seen above—was scrutinized. The conclusion? Miranda Richter is enjoying an ultimate Texas Summer pleasure: floating happily in cool water. Everything about this setting demands that you unplug and chill.

If tubing doesn’t float your boat, tear a page from Chet Garner’s journal—this month in Orange—and plan accordingly. Chet’s ideal day trip combines good food, a little history, and the chance to enjoy local personality.

		The Best Summer Ever The Texas summer heat tends to separate the true believers from those who prefer cooler environs. But no one can deny the Texas fun to be had with the activities in this year’s installment of our Best Summer Ever guide.
		A New Dawn in the Davis Mountains The saying that absence makes the heart grow fonder came into focus recently when Davis Mountains State Park closed temporarily for renovations. Come along as we explore the park’s upgrades and relish its West Texas desert mountain beauty.
		It's a Zootennial! Set among the limestone bluffs of an old rock quarry, the San Antonio Zoo has grown over 100 years into a world-class institution housing 750 species—and an awesome new carousel.
		Down to 20, and Counting As we reach the halfway point in our countdown of the Texas Top 40 Travel Destinations, reader favorites take us over the hills, up the mountains, and across the prairie.
		Where in Texas Are You? Contest Name this National Historic Landmark, and you could win an Amarillo summer getaway! Enter by May 6th.

Flower Power

We’d all love to roam the Texas back roads on an unbridled wildflower hunt, but life’s pesky realities often interfere. Luckily, you can soak in the state’s wildflower diversity with one simple stop at Texas Highways’ retrospective of wildflower photography—40 Years of Oohs and Ahhs—which runs April 19–May 25 at The University of Texas at Austin Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center as part of the center’s Wildflower Days™. And don’t forget to enter our wildflower photo contest, cosponsored by Precision Camera & Video, which is providing a $350 gift certificate to the winner.

This challenging puzzle is shaped like a highway sign, reminiscent of the glory days of Route 66. 1000 pieces. 27" x 32"

You can find dozens of gifts as unique as the Lone Star State in our online shop.

Looking for Texas Highways at your local newsstand?

Butterfly Release, Eco-Festival—for all ages Celebrate spring with the family at a 2-day festival. Release butterflies, try fun games & crafts, see live animals & more! Visit Boerne Surrounded by the beautiful Texas Hill Country, Boerne offers small town charm in a quaint, historic, picturesque setting. People Connect Here Plano offers 4,300+ guest rooms, 700 restaurants, world-class shopping & exciting attractions like Southfork Ranch.