What is the ideal time to visit Texas?

Given the expansive geography of the Lone Star State, there's truly no wrong time to explore Texas. While the high temperatures in Santa Elena Canyon during summer might be best avoided, winter in Amarillo can also be less than ideal for enjoying the Great Plains.

Here are our recommendations and a seasonal guide to help you determine the best times to visit various regions throughout Texas.

October and March see the highest visitor numbers in Texas

In October and March, music enthusiasts flock to Austin for two of the state's largest festivals: Austin City Limits (held over two weekends in October) and South by Southwest (spanning nearly two weeks in March). Both festivals draw musicians and fans from around the globe, while SXSW has expanded to include events focused on technology, politics, entertainment, and entrepreneurship. Overall, these months attract the most visitors to Texas cities due to milder temperatures and ample outdoor activities.

By October, football season is in full swing: enjoy Friday night lights at a local high school, support a college football team, pick pumpkins at a harvest festival, or brave the crowds at the Austin City Limits music festival.

Winter is perfect for hikes, art galleries, and holiday celebrations

By November, cooler temperatures make it an ideal time to explore West Texas: hike at Big Bend, visit the art galleries in Alpine, or relax in Marfa. Texas weather can be unpredictable during winter; one day may be a pleasant 70°F (21°C) for hiking, while the next could bring chilly winds perfect for museum and gallery visits.

Texans take great pride in their holiday lights, and throughout December, you can enjoy stunning displays in neighborhoods, parks, and on courthouses across the state.

Opt for the shoulder season to enjoy wildflowers and outdoor adventures

April and September see fewer tourists in Texas, but with milder temperatures than in summer, these months are perfect for outdoor pursuits. No matter where you're headed, it's generally advisable to plan a hike outside of the peak summer months from May to August.

While Texas wildflowers typically start to bloom in late March, their peak season truly comes alive in April.

Get ready for summer festivals (and rising temperatures) starting in May.

Though Texas doesn't really have an off-season, many tourists shy away from the sweltering months of May through August, when temperatures can soar between 90°F and 113°F (32°C to 45°C) and beyond. However, there are countless museums and galleries across the state offering air-conditioned fun, and locals often escape the heat by dipping into the numerous rivers, lakes, and beaches available.

Summer is packed with festivals worth planning your trip around, such as the Texas Crab Festival in Crystal City in May, the vibrant Juneteenth parades in Austin, Houston, and other cities, or the Fredericksburg Peach Festival in July, which celebrates peak peach season.