BLOG

Texas is a state full of adventure, culture, and natural beauty, making it an ideal destination for anyone looking to explore, relax, or seeking new challenges. Whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a foodie, or someone looking for unique experiences, Texas has something for everyone. Here’s a list of exciting things to do across the Lone Star State.

1. Explore Go Ape Zipline and Adventure Park

For those looking for fun things to do that combine adventure with stunning views, Go Ape’s Zipline and Adventure Parks in Texas are a must-visit. With locations in Plano, Arlington, and Sugarland-Houston, Go Ape offers a variety of ziplining, treetop challenges, and obstacle courses that will thrill visitors of all ages. Whether you’re facing your fear of heights or simply enjoying the outdoors, Go Ape’s adventure courses provide an exciting experience surrounded by nature.

• Go Ape Arlington: Adventure in the Heart of DFW
  Conveniently located near Dallas-Fort Worth, Go Ape Arlington sits within River Legacy Parks, a lush urban oasis. If you’re looking for fun things to do in Dallas, this adventure park offers 10 ziplines, 2 rope swings, and almost 100 treetop obstacles that range in difficulty so there’s something for all skill levels. Perfect for group outings, solo adventurers, or things to do with kids, Arlington’s course is designed to get your adrenaline pumping and your spirits soaring. With its scenic trails and vibrant wildlife, it’s a destination where adventure meets natural beauty.
• Go Ape Plano: A Nature Getaway Close to Dallas
  In the heart of Plano’s Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve, Go Ape brings outdoor adventure to life. Surrounded by 800 acres of natural beauty, Go Ape Plano offers tree-to-tree crossings, epic ziplines, and breathtaking views of the preserve. It’s an ideal spot if you’re looking for weekend escape ideas, date ideas and adventures, or memorable family outings. After tackling the course, you can explore the park’s extensive hiking trails or enjoy a peaceful picnic in the serene surroundings.
• Go Ape Sugar Land-Houston: Thrills in the Lone Star State
  Located just outside of Houston, Go Ape Sugar Land offers a unique outdoor experience within Brazos River Park. It combines zipping, climbing, and swinging through towering trees, making it an exhilarating outing for individuals, groups, or families looking for things to do near Houston. It is also home to the longest zipline in Houston – over 1,000 feet long! With scenic views, towering canopies, and a variety of course elements, this adventure park will leave you feeling accomplished and reconnected with nature. It’s perfect for adventure seekers or those that have ziplining on their bucket list!

Why Choose Go Ape for Your Next Adventure?

• Fun for Everyone: the ziplining and ropes courses are designed for all skill levels, ensuring a great experience whether it’s your first time ziplining or you’re a seasoned adventurer.
• Reconnect with Nature: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in the great outdoors.
• Unforgettable Memories: Whether you’re celebrating a milestone, planning a team-building event, or just looking for fun things to do, Go Ape guarantees experiences that create memories that last a lifetime.
• Commitment to Safety: You aren’t the first person to ask: Is ziplining safe? The Go Ape team prioritizes your safety with thorough daily and pre-use equipment checks and on-site guidance to ensure a worry-free adventure.

Plus, Go Ape now offers an national parks’ pass: the National Adventure Pass allows you to experience the fun of all U.S. Go Ape locations. Imagine soaring through the treetops in Arlington; conquering the giant Sugar Land-Houston zipline; then taking on the giant swing at Plano, all with one easy-to-use pass. It’s the perfect way to take your adventure to the next level.

2. Hike the Trails at Big Bend National Park
   

   Big Bend National Park, located in the Chihuahuan Desert, offers some of the best hiking trails in Texas. Whether you’re looking for a short, scenic walk or a multi-day backcountry hike, Big Bend’s diverse landscapes provide unparalleled beauty. From the towering Chisos Mountains to the expansive desert views, there’s no shortage of breathtaking scenery here.

3. Visit San Antonio’s Historic Sites
   

   San Antonio is home to a rich cultural heritage, and you can immerse yourself in the history by visiting landmarks such as the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. These sites are steeped in history and offer a glimpse into Texas’ past. Beyond the history, the San Antonio River Walk is another iconic destination for leisurely strolls, shopping, and dining by the water.

4. Take a Road Trip Through Texas’ Scenic Byways
   

   Texas is home to some of the most picturesque road trip routes in the country. Whether you drive along the Hill Country Trail with its charming small towns, or venture through the wild West on the Pecos Trail, Texas’ scenic byways provide stunning views and opportunities for spontaneous adventures. The routes allow you to explore everything from rolling hills to rugged desert landscapes.

5. Explore the Wonders of Enchanted Rock

   Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, located near Fredericksburg, is home to one of the largest pink granite monoliths in the United States. Hiking to the top of Enchanted Rock provides panoramic views of the surrounding Hill Country and is a favorite spot for rock climbing, picnicking, and stargazing. It’s a must-see for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts looking to connect with the Texas landscape.

6. Take a Winery Tour in the Hill Country 

   Texas Hill Country is known for its scenic beauty and excellent wineries. A trip through the Hill Country offers the perfect opportunity to explore local vineyards and sample some of the best wines in the state. Many vineyards offer guided tours, wine tasting events, and even live music for a perfect day out.

7. Visit the Hamilton Pool Preserve
   

   Located just outside Austin, the Hamilton Pool Preserve is a natural spring-fed swimming hole that’s surrounded by lush greenery and towering limestone cliffs. This picturesque location is perfect for swimming, picnicking, and hiking. The iconic waterfall flowing into the pool adds to its beauty, making it a great spot for a relaxing day in nature.

8. Visit Festivals in Texas | Events in Texas
   

   Texas is known for its vibrant festival scene. From the Austin City Limits Music Festival to the Houston Rodeo, there’s always an event that celebrates everything from music to food to art.

9. Explore the Natural Bridges Cavern
   

   Located in San Antonio, Natural Bridge Caverns offers an incredible underground experience. These caves are some of the largest in Texas and feature breathtaking limestone formations. Take a guided tour through the caverns or try out the more adventurous options like the Hidden Passages Tour.

10. Enjoy the Peace and Quiet at Palo Duro Canyon
    

    Often referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” Palo Duro Canyon offers stunning views and excellent opportunities for hiking, camping, and stargazing. The canyon’s unique rock formations and colorful landscapes make it an ideal spot for photographers and nature lovers alike.

Plan Your Adventure Today

Ready to take your Texas adventure to the next level? From exhilarating adventures at Go Ape to scenic hikes and cultural landmarks, there’s no shortage of exciting experiences awaiting you in the Lone Star State. We hope you’ve found the perfect option on our list of outdoor adventures in Texas. Whatever’s on your itinerary, you’re in for an extraordinary day of family fun.

Go Ape believes in creating spaces where people of all ages and abilities can escape the ordinary, rediscover their courage, and embrace the thrill of discovery. Here, in the treetops or along scenic paths, lifelong bonds are forged, confidence is renewed, and laughter echoes through the canopy. Go Ape isn’t just an activity; it’s a movement to reconnect with what truly matters: people, place, and purpose.

Not sure what experience is right for you? Check out our different adventures to see what will fit your group best.

1. Go Ape | Our Adventures | Learn About Our Treetop Adventures
2. Go Ape | Our Adventures | Learn About Treetop Journeys
3. Outdoor Axe Throwing | Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park
4. Forest EscAPE | Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park
5. Image Gallery | Go Ape Zipline & Adventure Park

Interested in special pricing and Go Ape discounts? For groups of 10+, give us a call or email and we’ll be happy to help.

Check out our locations that are open year-round:

1. Arlington-Dallas, Texas
2. Plano, Texas
3. Houston-Sugarland, Texas
4. Williamsburg, Virginia
5. Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina
6. Memphis, Tennessee

Traveling in 2025? Our seasonal locations are taking 2025 reservations now!

1. Bear, Delaware
2. Chicago, Illinois
3. Indianapolis, Indiana
4. Ocean City, Maryland
5. Rockville, Maryland
6. Kansas City, Missouri
7. Louis, Missouri
8. Omaha-Lincoln, Nebraska
9. Cleveland, Ohio
10. Springfield, Virginia (Washington DC)

About Go Ape

In a world dominated by screens and fleeting connections, Go Ape offers an antidote: a place where joy is tangible, adventure is primal, and connections are authentic.

Whether you’re a parent wanting to create meaningful family memories, a thrill seeking adult, a leader building stronger teams, or an educator inspiring growth outside the classroom, we provide an unparalleled experience that blends physical challenge, emotional connection, and the beauty of nature. We believe in creating spaces where people of all ages can escape the ordinary, rediscover their courage, and embrace the thrill of discovery. Here, in the treetops or along scenic paths, lifelong bonds are forged, confidence is renewed, and laughter echoes through the canopy.

Go Ape isn’t just an activity—it’s a movement to reconnect with what truly matters: people, place, and purpose. Let’s rise above together. Visit goape.com.