Bigger, better, busier — that's Texas, writes Megan Singleton.
1. Texas State Fair
They say everything is bigger in Texas, so it's little surprise that the annual state fair, held for 24 days in Dallas from the last Friday in September, is America's best and busiest. It started in 1886 and has been graced by acts like Elvis Presley and the 16m tall Big Tex mannequin, who is still here in his denim. Eat corn dogs and other deep-fried nasties like campfire biscuits Oreos and S'mores. The largest Ferris wheel in the world is here, plus music, performances and livestock. An A&P show on steroids.
2. Eat Texas style
For a taste of the Lone Star State, try Tex-Mex - a fusion of Mexican cuisine and American products resulting in nachos, enchiladas and more, all covered in yellow American cheese. Pretty much Mexican as we know it! Wash it down with a Shiner beer. Blue Bell ice cream has been around since 1907 and its homemade vanilla is the most popular for a Texan dessert, followed by Dutch chocolate.
3. Saddle up
Head to Houston for the biggest rodeo event in the big state. Every February since 1938 and continuing into March, the city pays homage to its Western heritage. This year, the events run by Houston Livestock and Rodeo were attended by more than 2 million people. And it's not just about wrangling some livestock, it's about eating it too as the best of the best come together for a barbecue contest.
4. Swamp tour
Putter through the bayous of East Texas on Caddo Lake, the largest natural lake in the state. You will boat through a pristine environment and see beaver houses made of piles of logs, woodpeckers working hard and plenty of birds and fish under moss-draped cypress trees. Alligators are best seen on a night tour, so keep your eyes peeled for something that looks like a handbag in the water glistening under the moonlight.
