Cowboy culture and the Wild West live at Texas’ ranches and rodeos

Bygone days of the rampant lawlessness that governed Texas in the Wild West may be gone, but the lore of the cowboy, tales of the Old West and a tradition of ranch and rodeo life live on within the Lone Star State. A paragon backdrop for a myriad of Hollywood films, Texas’ natural beauty and unique landscape serve as a fantastic stop for those who’d like to hit the trails on horseback, while its vibrant cities bring the showmanship and skill of the modern-day cowboy to the biggest stage.

Ranches

Flying Ranch Resort

Bandera is known as the“Cowboy Capital of the World”and Flying L Ranch Resort delivers that experience and much more. Horseback and pony riding adventures along the San Julian Creek will give every buckaroo the chance to spot the whitetail and axis deer, black buck antelope, road runners, wild turkeys, armadillos, owls, hawks and more that populate the region. When you’ve spent enough time on the trail and just want to relax, this full-scale resort caters to your every need, offering four-bedroom villas, five restaurants, and a 3-acre water park and 18-hole golf course. Enjoy wagon rides, champion Western entertainment, live music, roaring campfires and more in Texas’ Hill Country.

The Inn at Dos Brisas

Nestled between Houston, AustinandCollegeStation,The Inn at Dos Brisas is a culinary oasis in the hills of Washington County. Here you’ll find the only Forbes five-star restaurant and Relais & Châteaux property in all of Texas, where a luxurious hotel meets the peaceful scenery of a landscape framed by lakes, wildflowers and pecan trees. Enjoy wine tasting, baking and cooking classes, indulge in upscale rooms, take a riding lesson from one of the largest equestrian facilities in the state or stroll leisurely through the gardens. For the sports enthusiast, engage in clay target shooting, hunting or fishing, as well as tennis and golf with access to nearby private clubs.

Prude Ranch

Here’s a challenge; try not to have the Dixie Chicks stuck in your head while cruising around Prude Ranch in Fort Davis. Surrounded by the incredible rolling mountains of Big Bend, the ranch is the perfect stop for a family vacation, corporate retreat or much-needed breath of fresh air. Horseback riding through rustic trails rewards riders with the serene beauty of scenic West Texas, while a bevy of housing options are available upon your return to the ranch. Relax in the pool and take in the breeze while learning about the ranch’s historic roots.

West 1077 Guest Ranch

Just 10 miles outside of Bandera this dude ranch has a relaxed schedule, enabling you to completely engage in the peaceful tranquility of the Hill Country at West 1077 Guest Ranch. Here you’ll find nearly 230 acres teeming with wildlife, hiking, running and mountain biking trails, while Hill Country State National Area is nearby and offers an adjoining 5,400 acres to roam. West 1077 always has something new to do at the place where the old west meets today’s modern world.

Mayan Dude Ranch

Mayan Ranch_191

Another staple of Bandera, the gorgeous Mayan Dude Ranch is in the heart of Texas Hill County, where you’ll find refreshing rivers, scenic horseback rides and delectable breakfast treats. Be a part of the Western tradition that has produced seven world champion rodeo cowboys while you wander through 348 acres of picturesque trails, traversing the Medina River and the panoramic views of the surrounding hills. Swim in the pool, reconnect with family and friends and indulge in farmhouse favorites like sliced bacon, cowboy sausage, oven-fresh biscuits and more.

Wildcatter Ranch

Overlooking the Brazos River, Wildcatter Ranch in Graham is merely 90 minutes away from DFW International Airport and close to Possum Kingdom Lake. Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and experience luxurious ranch life, where an infinity pool and hot tub are ready to relax you after a long day exploring the great outdoors via horseback. The Wildcatter Steakhouse serves hand-cut, mesquite grilled steaks, while chicken fried steak is a local favorite. Multiple accommodations are available, ready to host every guest need.

Rodeos Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo

For 23 days each year Fort Worth makes its case as the most authentic Western lifestyle experience in the country when the show comes to Dickies Arena. Held annually since 1896, the Stock Show features livestock and horse shows, kid-friendly activities and exhibits, live music, carnival midway, shopping, great food and much more.

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo

World-renowned as the largest indoor livestock exhibitions and rodeo on the planet, the Houston Livestock Show and Radio is not to be missed. The 2019 rodeo drew more than 2.5 million people over 20 days, with the 2020 event slated for March 3-22. The show features championship rodeo action, livestock competitions, concerts, a carnival, pig racing, barbecue and the Rodeo Uncorked! International Wine Competition, as well as shopping, sales and livestock auctions. Traditionally the event draws some of the world’s biggest recording artists.

Rodeo Austin

With a family-friendly fairground, Rodeo Austin is “Where Weird Meets Western”. One of the country’s top ProRodeos comes to town every March, where top-ranked athletes compete in bareback riding, steer wrestling, saddle bronc riding, team roping, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding. Plus, aspiring young cowboys and cowgirls can compete in the fan-favorite Mutton Bustin’ event, where kids receive a score no matter how long they stay on a friendly sheep.

San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo

The San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo is one of the largest livestock shows in the nation, featuring the fourth-most entries between total contestants and the livestock show. More than 5,500 4-H and FFA exhibitors travel to appear at the show from more than 200 Texas counties, annually drawing more than 150,000 spectators.

San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

Barrel Racer Shali Lord competes at the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo

As one of the most prestigious single events in San Antonio, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo annually attracts more than two million visitors. Held from February 6-23 in 2020, the 14-time PRCA large Indoor Rodeo of the Year features a carnival for kids and musical performances from some of the globe’s biggest names at Rodeo After Dark, on top of a slew of amazing competitions.