At the southernmost tip of the Texas Hill Country, San Antonio is surrounded by a variety of outdoor activities, including the Government Canyon State Natural Area, which has more than 40 miles of trails and 12,000 acres of open space. River access is also available nearby for swimming, floating, and fishing. Terlingua is an excellent home base for exploring the extensive Big Bend region. This old mining town, which is situated between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park, was one of the nation's major producers of quicksilver in the early 20th century until turning into a ghost town after the mine closed.

Two well-known chili cook-offs, which draw tens of thousands of visitors each autumn, are also held in Terlingua. Walk through a state or national park, or hire a canoe and paddle along the Rio Grande along the border between the United States and Mexico.

Back in town, the Starlight Theatre Restaurant and Saloon is a must-visit for live music and meals since it used to be known as the miners' theater. One of the most driving directions photographed cemeteries in Texas is the Terlingua Cemetery, which has a few graves with interesting decorations.

The city is filled with fantastic artwork as well. Visit a nearby gallery for mosaics, paintings, photographs, and other works of art, and don't forget to stop by the Terlingua Trading Company for presents, souvenirs, and works of art. While Long Draw Pizza offers mouthwatering specialty pizzas like the Terlingua Spur (fajita chicken, onions, jalapenos, cheddar, mozzarella, barbecue sauce, and marinara), Taqueria El Milagro is a favorite among foodies for its tacos and Tex-Mex dishes.

The barrier island of Mustang Island, located south of Port Aransas, is perfect for anyone looking for a beach getaway without the throngs seen along the Texas coast. Mustang Island was named after the wild horses that formerly roamed the region and lived there for hundreds of years. Visit Mustang Island State Park, where you may go swimming, fishing, kayaking, or beachcombing along more than five miles of shoreline. For those who like nature, the island is a terrific place to visit since it is home to more than 400 different bird species and sea turtle nesting areas. Adventure seekers may surf, parasail, throw a hook during an offshore fishing expedition, or try their hand at surfing.