Hitting the road and looking to explore everything the Lone Star State has to offer? TxDOT’s Travel Information Centers are standing by, stocked full of resources to guide you on your journey through the vast Texan landscapes—from the arid deserts to the sprawling beaches.
According to TxDOT Special Projects Coordinator Elizabeth Watson, these centers, which originated back in 1936 for folks flocking to the Texas Centennial and the Texas State Fair, are like a treasure trove for tourists. Providing assistance to visitors, they offer detailed maps, brochures, and a trove of options for traversing Texas both safely and enjoyably. "They basically function the same as safety rest areas, but they also have lobbies with a lot of travel information," Watson told TxDOT.
If you're cruising into Texas on a major highway, odds are, one of the state's 12 official Travel Information Centers won't be far off. You can find them in places like Amarillo, Laredo, and Texarkana, among others, each strategically placed at significant entry routes and various key locations within Texas. Looking for somewhere to kick back and regroup? The centers have you covered, complete with rest areas that are clean, safe, and equipped with restrooms.
These centers don’t just hand over a map and send you on your way. They feature travel counselors—professional and certified—who weave their local knowledge into a tapestry of travel suggestions suited to your interests. Whether you're on the hunt for national parks, the lowdown on local events, or a bite of Texas flavor, they've got the scoop. "And of course, professional and certified travel counselors there to help visitors," Watson added emphasis on the personalized touches that set Texas apart during a recent TxDOT showcase.
The bells and whistles don’t stop there. Beyond recommendations, you can tap into free Wi-Fi to round out your travel plans on the fly. Stay informed on road conditions, closures, and driving tips tailored to the ever-changing Texas weather. Before you blaze your trail across the state, start your Texas adventure with a pit stop at one of these Travel Information Centers, and let the local experts set the stage for an unforgettable journey.
