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Texas Highways Magazine

Each issue showcases the diverse range of experiences found in the Lone Star State, from exploring Big Bend’s scenic roadways and experiencing live music in Austin to kayaking on the Texas Gulf Coast. Not only that, you’ll find a broad list of upcoming events so you don’t miss a thing, no matter where you are in the state. Whether you’re a proud Texan or a curious visitor in search of inspiration, you’ll always discover something new in the Texas Highways magazine.

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A Detailed Map And Guide To The Highways Of Texas

The expansive state of Texas is connected by a vast network of interstate, U.S. and state highways that allows travel between its major cities and scenic destinations. If you’re short on time, here’s a quick answer: There are over 72,000 miles of highway in Texas, including more than 3,000 miles of interstate highways. Major highways include I-10, I-20, I-30, I-35, I-37, I-40, I-45 and key state routes include SH 71, SH 146 and SH 183.

In this comprehensive guide, we will provide a detailed map and overview of the major highway systems across the Lone Star State. We will highlight the most important interstate, U.S. and state routes, discuss key facts and history behind Texas highways, and provide tips, resources and points of interest along some of the most well-traveled Texas highway routes.

Overview and Quick Facts on Texas Highways

When it comes to highways, Texas is renowned for its vast network of roads that span across the state. With a total mileage of over 300,000 miles, Texas boasts one of the most extensive highway systems in the United States.

These highways connect major cities, towns, and regions, facilitating travel and commerce within the state.

Total Mileage and Notable Highway Systems

Texas has an impressive total mileage of over 300,000 miles of highways, making it the state with the longest highway system in the country. The Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) oversees the maintenance and development of these highways, ensuring smooth and safe travel for motorists.

One of the most notable highway systems in Texas is the Interstate Highway System, which includes major highways such as I-10, I-35, and I-45. These highways connect Texas with neighboring states and provide crucial transportation routes for both travelers and goods.

Additionally, Texas is home to several U.S. Highways, such as US-90 and US-287, which play a vital role in connecting smaller towns and cities across the state.

History and Development of Texas Roads and Highways

The history of Texas roads and highways dates back to the early 20th century when the need for improved transportation became evident. In the 1920s, the state government initiated the construction of paved roads, which gradually evolved into the highway system we see today.

Over the years, Texas has invested heavily in the development and expansion of its highway infrastructure. This includes the construction of toll roads, bridges, and flyovers to ease congestion and improve traffic flow.

The state’s commitment to maintaining a reliable and efficient highway system has contributed to its economic growth and development.

Major Cities and Regions Connected

The Texas highway system connects major cities and regions, enabling seamless travel throughout the state. Some of the key cities linked by these highways include Houston, Dallas, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso.

These cities serve as major economic hubs and tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year.

In addition to connecting major cities, Texas highways also provide access to various regions with unique landscapes and attractions. From the Gulf Coast beaches to the rolling hills of the Hill Country and the vast plains of West Texas, the highways offer a gateway to explore the diverse beauty and culture of the Lone Star State.

For more information on Texas highways and road conditions, you can visit the official website of the Texas Department of Transportation (TxDOT) .

Maps of Key Texas Highways

Interstate highways.

Interstate highways are an essential part of Texas’s transportation system, connecting major cities and facilitating the movement of goods and people. The state boasts a vast network of interstates, including I-10, I-20, I-35, and I-45, among others.

These highways offer convenient access to various regions of the state, making travel within Texas efficient and time-saving. Whether you’re planning a road trip or commuting to work, having a map of Texas’s interstate highways is crucial for navigating the state’s extensive road network.

U.S. Highways

In addition to interstate highways, Texas is crisscrossed by a network of U.S. highways that connect cities, towns, and rural areas throughout the state. U.S. highways, such as US-90, US-281, and US-59, provide alternate routes and scenic drives for travelers exploring the Lone Star State.

These highways offer a mix of urban and rural landscapes, allowing drivers to experience the diverse beauty of Texas. Whether you’re interested in historical landmarks, natural wonders, or cultural attractions, having a map of Texas’s U.S. highways will guide you to your desired destinations.

Texas State Highway System

The Texas State Highway System consists of a vast network of state highways that serve as important connectors between cities, towns, and rural areas. With over 80,000 miles of state highways, Texas has one of the most extensive state highway systems in the country.

These highways, numbered from 1 to 999, provide access to various regions, including the Gulf Coast, the Hill Country, and the West Texas plains. Whether you’re a local commuter or a traveler exploring the state, having a map of Texas’s state highways is essential for navigating the diverse landscapes and vibrant communities that make up the Lone Star State.

For detailed maps and information on Texas highways, you can visit the official website of the Texas Department of Transportation at www.txdot.gov . The website offers interactive maps, travel guides, and other resources to help you plan your journey and navigate the highways with ease.

Major Interstate Routes in Texas

I-10 through west texas.

Interstate 10, also known as I-10, is one of the major interstate routes in Texas. It stretches from the western border of Texas all the way to the eastern border, connecting cities such as El Paso, San Antonio, and Houston.

The portion of I-10 that runs through West Texas offers breathtaking views of the desert landscape and is a popular route for travelers heading to the Big Bend National Park or the scenic city of Marfa.

With its wide lanes and well-maintained roads, I-10 through West Texas provides a smooth and enjoyable driving experience.

I-20 from Dallas/Fort Worth to the Louisiana Border

If you’re traveling from Dallas/Fort Worth to the Louisiana border, Interstate 20 is the route for you. This major interstate highway runs east-west, connecting cities such as Fort Worth, Abilene, and Tyler.

I-20 offers convenient access to popular attractions like the Six Flags Over Texas amusement park and the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden. With its multiple lanes and modern infrastructure, I-20 provides a comfortable and efficient journey for both locals and tourists alike.

I-30 from Fort Worth through East Texas

Heading east from Fort Worth, Interstate 30 is the main interstate route that takes you through East Texas. This highway passes through cities like Arlington, Dallas, and Texarkana, offering access to attractions like the AT&T Stadium and the Dallas World Aquarium.

I-30 also connects to other major interstates, such as I-35 and I-45, providing convenient travel options for those looking to explore different parts of the state. With its well-maintained roads and numerous rest areas, I-30 ensures a smooth and enjoyable journey for travelers.

I-35 along the Eastern Spine of Texas

Interstate 35, commonly referred to as I-35, is a significant interstate route that runs along the eastern spine of Texas. This highway connects cities like Austin, San Antonio, and Dallas, making it one of the busiest and most traveled routes in the state.

I-35 offers easy access to popular attractions like the Alamo in San Antonio and the State Capitol in Austin. With its multiple lanes and frequent rest stops, I-35 ensures a comfortable and convenient journey for travelers exploring the heart of Texas.

I-37 from Corpus Christi to San Antonio

If you’re traveling between Corpus Christi and San Antonio, Interstate 37 is the route for you. This interstate highway offers a direct connection between these two cities, passing through scenic areas like the coastal plains and the South Texas Brush Country.

I-37 provides access to attractions like the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi and the San Antonio River Walk. With its well-paved roads and beautiful landscapes, I-37 offers a pleasant and picturesque journey for travelers exploring this part of Texas.

I-40 through the Texas Panhandle

Interstate 40, also known as I-40, is a major east-west route that runs through the Texas Panhandle. This highway connects cities like Amarillo, Wichita Falls, and the border town of Texola. I-40 offers access to attractions like the Cadillac Ranch in Amarillo and the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge in Oklahoma.

With its wide lanes and minimal traffic, I-40 provides a smooth and enjoyable driving experience for travelers passing through the Texas Panhandle.

I-45 from Galveston through Houston and Dallas

Interstate 45, commonly known as I-45, is a significant north-south route that connects cities like Galveston, Houston, and Dallas. This highway offers access to popular attractions like the Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier and the Houston Museum of Natural Science.

With its multiple lanes and modern infrastructure, I-45 ensures a comfortable and efficient journey for travelers exploring the diverse landscapes of Texas.

These major interstate routes in Texas provide convenient and efficient travel options for both residents and visitors. Whether you’re exploring the vast deserts of West Texas or the bustling cities of Dallas and Houston, these highways offer a well-connected network that allows you to navigate the Lone Star State with ease.

Other Notable Texas Highway Routes

U.s. route 59.

U.S. Route 59 is a major highway that spans from the Gulf Coast of Texas all the way up to the Canadian border. It is known as the “Future Interstate 69” and serves as a crucial transportation route for both commercial and leisure travelers.

The highway passes through several major cities including Houston, Victoria, and Lufkin, offering a convenient route for those traveling across the state.

U.S. Route 77

U.S. Route 77 is another significant highway in Texas, stretching from the Mexican border to the Oklahoma state line. This route takes you through vibrant cities such as Brownsville, Corpus Christi, and Waco.

It is an important corridor for trade and tourism, connecting major metropolitan areas and providing access to various attractions along the way.

U.S. Route 83

U.S. Route 83 is a north-south highway that traverses the western part of Texas, running from the Mexican border to the Oklahoma state line. This scenic route takes you through picturesque landscapes and charming small towns.

It is a popular choice for travelers seeking a more relaxed and scenic drive.

U.S. Route 84

U.S. Route 84 is a highway that spans from the New Mexico state line to the Louisiana state line, passing through Texas along the way. This route offers access to various national parks, including the Guadalupe Mountains National Park and the Sabine National Forest.

It is a great choice for nature enthusiasts looking to explore the diverse landscapes of Texas.

U.S. Route 90

U.S. Route 90 is a historic highway that stretches from the Pacific Ocean in California to Jacksonville, Florida. In Texas, it takes you through major cities such as El Paso, San Antonio, and Houston. This route offers a glimpse into the rich history and culture of Texas, with opportunities to visit iconic landmarks and attractions.

Texas State Highway 71

Texas State Highway 71 is an important east-west highway that connects the cities of Austin and Houston. It is a heavily traveled route, offering convenient access to popular destinations such as the Colorado River, Bastrop State Park, and the city of La Grange.

This highway is a lifeline for commuters and tourists alike.

Texas State Highway 146

Texas State Highway 146 is a coastal highway that runs along the Gulf of Mexico, connecting various beach towns and cities. It is a scenic route that offers stunning views of the ocean and access to popular destinations like Galveston Island.

This highway is a favorite among beachgoers and vacationers.

Texas State Highway 183

Texas State Highway 183 is a major north-south highway that passes through central Texas, connecting cities such as Austin, Fort Worth, and Dallas. It is a key transportation route for both residents and visitors, offering easy access to various attractions, shopping centers, and business districts.

This highway is often bustling with activity, providing a glimpse into the vibrant urban life of Texas.

Texas highways form an incredibly expansive, complex network connecting every corner of the state. This guide provided an overview of the major interstate, U.S. and state highway routes that are the lifeblood of transportation across Texas. With this map and guide detailing key highway systems, routes, facts and points of interest, you now have the knowledge to hit the open Texas roadways and confidently navigate to any destination.

Hi there, I'm Jessica, the solo traveler behind the travel blog Eye & Pen. I launched my site in 2020 to share over a decade of adventurous stories and vivid photography from my expeditions across 30+ countries. When I'm not wandering, you can find me freelance writing from my home base in Denver, hiking Colorado's peaks with my rescue pup Belle, or enjoying local craft beers with friends.

I specialize in budget tips, unique lodging spotlights, road trip routes, travel hacking guides, and female solo travel for publications like Travel+Leisure and Matador Network. Through my photography and writing, I hope to immerse readers in new cultures and compelling destinations not found in most guidebooks. I'd love for you to join me on my lifelong journey of visual storytelling!

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When you hear the open road calling your name, there are no highways with more to explore than Texas’. Between a packed strip of Route 66 in the Panhandle and the FM 170 along the Rio Grande are miles of road with plenty to discover. Here’s everything you need to know for a genuine Texas road trip, from routes to take and roadside stops along the way to crafting the ultimate Texan playlist.

Before You Go…

Queue the Tunes: Is a road trip a road trip without a finely curated playlist? Whether you’re cruising through scenic Hill Country, the rolling West Texas mountains, or the towering East Texas Pineywoods, the experience of a Texas road trip isn’t complete without a queue of truly Texan music. The Lone Star State is the birthplace of classic road songs like Willie Nelson’s “On the Road Again” and Kris Kristofferson’s “Me and Bobby McGhee.” Check out our full road trip playlist for a full lineup of country jams.

Ready Your Ride: Stocking the console with beef jerky and your favorite CDs is the fun part of road-trip prep, but getting your vehicle in shape is essential to avoiding roadside misadventures in the middle of nowhere. Make sure your oil is clean, your spare tire has air, and your coolant is topped off — it’s gonna be a long drive! Get our complete car safety checklist for road trips here.

The Classic Scenic Highways: There are almost 700,000 miles of road in Texas, more than any other state in the U.S., but no matter which road you take or which direction you head, the highways all offer scenic routes. Farm-to-Market 170 (or FM 170) in Big Bend runs along rivers and canyons. The Lonesome Highway in West Texas is simultaneously flat and mountainous. There are plenty of routes to take, so dig into the collection of our favorite Texas highways for more .

Route 66: Although only about 150 miles of the internationally famous Route 66 cut through Texas, it’s a jam-packed stretch of road in the Panhandle. Along the way, you’ll find a barbed wire museum, one of Elvis Presley’s favorite diners, and the infamous public art installation Cadillac Ranch. Get the full lineup of Route 66 attractions in Texas on our guide.

The Texan Music Venue Tour: A significant amount of American music is rooted in Texas, so it follows that the music venues around the state are just as historic. The variety of stages and locations makes for a great map to plan your road trip around — start at the Luckenbach Dance Hall in Hill Country, swing-dance your way through the world’s largest honky-tonk in Fort Worth, and wind up in Helotes, the birthplace of Texas-music legend Willie Nelson. Pack your dancing shoes and check out our complete list of music venues.

See “Europe”: No need to book an international flight — you can road trip your way from London to Paris to Berlin to Moscow right here in Texas. These are just a few of the “European” cities in the Lone Star State, which together can create a fun tour of Central-to-East Texas. Check out the full list of Texas-Europe towns here.

The Twisted Sisters: A 100-mile loop of two-lane blacktop in the heart of Hill Country and the windiest road in Texas, the Twisted Sisters is not for the faint of heart. It’s a truly awesome drive full of rough terrain, hairpin turns, and steep cliffs — ingredients for a road trip that’s equal parts beautiful and harrowing. If you’re up for the challenge, read up on our guide to tackling the Twisted Sisters .

Best Roadside Stops

The Top Gas Stations: Every Texas road-tripper has pulled off at a Buc-ee’s to join the melting pot of road-weary Texans who congregate here to top off their tanks and load up on brisket sandwiches. But there are several renowned gas stops around the state with famous (and random) road offerings, like Fuel City’s street tacos and Fox Fuels’ laundromat. Stop off at our guide to gas stations in Texas to learn our favorites.

Czech Stop: One of the best gas stations in Texas also offers the best kolaches in the state. Czech Stop is in the small town of West, which is just north of Waco and one of the most Czech-populous areas in the country. They’ve been handmaking kolaches (plus a full menu of authentic Czech pastries) since 1983, and it’s been a haven for hungry road-trippers ever since. Learn all about their delicious history here.

Roadside Fruit Stands: When your Texas road trip gets bogged down with I-35 traffic, keep an eye out for fresh fruit stands along the way. No matter what’s in the season, there are almost always family-run stands along frontage roads hawking peaches and strawberries, jams and jellies, and even Christmas trees. Learn some of our favorite roadside stands in our guide.

Texas Road-Trip Bingo

Any direction your road trip takes you, keep your eyes peeled for these quintessentially Texan things. How many can you find along the way?

• The Most Texas Road Signs: From pelican crossings to “Look Out for Snowmobiles,” here are some of the zaniest (and the most important) road signs to watch for.
• Curious Capitals: Can you find Texas’ official Hippopotamus Capital, its Blues Capital, or its Jackrabbit-Roping Capital? Bookmark our guide to the best capitals and see what you’ll find.
• Public Art: Look for Prada Marfa, Cadillac Ranch, and more art installations on your drive. See how many of our favorites you can spot on your journey.

Ready to hit the road? Explore even more of our Texas Travel blogs to guide you along the way.

© 2023 Texas Farm Bureau Insurance

The ultimate guide to getting around in Texas

Aug 27, 2023 • 6 min read

Hiring your own car will give you lots of flexibility in Texas © Jamie Kingham / Getty Images

Texas , the second-largest state in the USA , is a sprawling land where remote mountains, kitschy towns, and ginormous metroplexes are connected by a vast system of highways, railways and air routes.

The sheer scale of Texas means that getting to and from different destinations is time consuming, no matter which forms of transportation you choose. However, with proper planning, you can travel more efficiently and quickly throughout the Lone Star State. Here’s everything you need to know about getting around in Texas.

Hire your own wheels for the open road

Driving is by far the most common method of travel in Texas. You’d be hard-pressed to get around any of the major cities without a car, and some remote destinations, like Big Bend National Park , are practically inaccessible without private transport. Driving also allows you to easily make stops at roadside attractions – of which there are many in Texas – and experience the state’s scenic landscape up close and personal. It is also by far the most convenient form of travel for families.

Prepare for three-to-five-hour drives between major cities like Dallas , Austin , and Houston . Road trips to cities like El Paso or South Padre Island can be much longer. Some claim that Texas’ highway systems are confusing, and within major cities (which are also usually busy with traffic) that is certainly the case. To prevent getting lost, use an online map for navigation.

Gas currently runs at around $3.50 per gallon, although if you have an electric vehicle, you’ll be glad to know that Texas ranks number two in the nation for charging access with almost 5000  EV charging stations .

Bikers are drawn to Texas’ scenic routes, especially those in Hill Country . The state does not require riders to wear helmets if they are over 21 but wearing one is always advisable for safety reasons. Lane splitting (riding a bike between stationary or slow-moving traffic) is illegal in Texas, so stay in one lane. It’s worth noting that with high temperatures in the summer, it can get toasty riding a motorcycle on the highway between May and early October.

A local’s tips for driving across the state

Texas has a wide range of toll roads and the higher speed limits make them a popular option. Unlike other states, you can’t stop and throw a handful of coins into a toll-booth basket or pay with a card to use these roads. Instead, cameras scan for a toll tag from TxTag.org or a license plate. The TxTag provides access to all toll roads in Texas, as well as those in Oklahoma and Kansas . You can also use the toll tag to pay for entry at Texas airports and/or airport parking.

If your rental car or private vehicle lacks a toll tag and you take a toll road, expect a ticket to arrive at your door, sometimes months later. These tickets can result in surprisingly high fees. To steer clear of toll roads, you’ll need to specifically mark this in your online navigation tool.

Flights can save time if you're in a hurry

As the second-largest state in the US, in-state domestic flights can make traveling within Texas much easier. It doesn’t hurt that many of Texas’ biggest cities are hubs for major airlines. American Airlines has its primary hub at Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport, while Southwest Airlines ’ primary hub can be found at Dallas Love Field. Houston International Airport is a hub for United Airlines .

Southwest Airlines and American Airlines (and their American Eagle subsidiary) dominate the skies in Texas, and as a result, you’ll most likely find the best deals with these two airlines.

While flying is often the quickest way to cross the state, planes lack the soul and atmosphere of a road (or rail) trip through Texas’ countryside. Flying is, of course, also a lot worse for the environment.

A local’s tips for flying within Texas

Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport and Houston International Airport are huge facilities that see a lot of foot traffic, which can cause long lines at ticket counters and security. If you’re flying in or out of Dallas or Houston to another city in Texas, you may want to bypass these hectic hubs in favor of smaller airports within city limits, like Dallas Love Field, in Dallas, and William P. Hobby Airport, in Houston.

Enjoy scenic views from a train carriage

Train travel isn’t the most popular form of travel in Texas, but it can take away the stress of driving and offer up-close scenic views that you can't get by flying. There are 19 Amtrak stations in the state, along three different routes: the Heartland Flyer (connecting Gainesville and Fort Worth), Sunset Limited (connecting Houston and El Paso), and Texas Eagle (connecting Dallas and El Paso). Train travel is slightly slower than driving, but not much so – it depends on your route and connections.

The biggest drawback to train travel in Texas is the cost and the low number of trains that run per day or week. Some routes in Texas offer one train a day, while others only see three trains per week, meaning this form of transport requires a certain amount of planning in advance.

Take the bus to stretch your budget

Buses are the most affordable method of travel in Texas. For instance, a one-way trip from Dallas to Austin on a Greyhound bus is only $35. Routes are extensive among large, small, and remote cities. Many buses come with wi-fi and have their own bathrooms.

Greyhound and Megabus , the two most popular bus providers in Texas, don’t have the most stellar reviews. Stations aren’t always in the safest areas of town and reports of breakdowns occur. That’s why some people opt to pay more for Vonlane , a luxury motor coach service with routes between Dallas, Houston, Austin, Fort Worth, and San Antonio .

Vonlane’s bus routes are cheaper than flights, and they offer a lot more amenities than standard coaches, such as plush recliners, free snacks and beverages, wi-fi, and TVs. Although Vonlane is marketed to business travelers, it’s a comfortable and convenient option that any traveler might opt to use.

Public transport is often free in cities

Each city has its own form of public transportation that includes everything from buses to metro rails. Public transportation within Texan cities is, on the whole, very affordable, and sometimes even free. For instance, Dallas has a free trolley that connects the neighborhoods of Uptown and Downtown.

Unfortunately, public transportation in Texas cities is not as extensive or efficient as in other cities around the US. It will most likely take you twice as long to get somewhere on public transport as it would by car. For some, it doesn’t seem worth it to take a metro line or a bus only to have to drive or walk miles to the actual destination. This is why cars remain the preferred transportation choice in Texas.

Accessible transportation in Texas

Travelers with mobility issues can find accessible transportation services in Texas, whether they take a plane, train, or bus. Many major rental car companies also offer adaptive devices at no extra charge.

Within the big cities, like Dallas, Houston, San Antonio, Austin, and El Paso, there is a vast array of accessible local transportation, like buses and metro lines. Depending on the city, free door-to-door van service is available. Unfortunately, there are fewer accessible public transportation options in smaller towns and cities in Texas.

For more information, download Lonely Planet’s free Accessible Travel guide .

This article was first published August 2021 and updated August 2023

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• The Great Texas Eclipse
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• Online Travel Guide

The winding roads and wide-open spaces of Texas are calling. Here is some information to help guide you on your trip across Texas. 

Travel Information Centers

The Texas Department of Transportation operates travel information centers for the convenience of the traveling public. Professional travel counselors welcome visitors and provide a wealth of free literature, information, and suggestions to make every Texas trip more pleasant. This also includes  Texas Safety Rest Area  information for breaks needed along your road trip. 

Travelers may receive road condition information by visiting  www.drivetexas.org  or by calling  1-800-452-9292  daily from 8 a.m.– 5 p.m. CST, to speak to a professional travel counselor for travel information and trip planning assistance. (TDD for the deaf 1-800-735-2988 .)

EV Charging Stations

Texas has over 2,000 charging stations and many charge multiple vehicles at a time. Charging stations are connected to apps that display station status, occupancy, cost, and charge rates. Visit the Texas Department of Transportation  for more information and to plan ahead.

Airport Information

• Rick Husband Amarillo International Airport
• Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
• Corpus Christi International Airport
• Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport
• Dallas Love Field
• El Paso International Airport
• Valley International  Airport (Harlingen)
• Houston-George Bush Intercontinental Airport
• Houston-William P. Hobby Airport
• Lubbock International Airport
• Midland International Airport
• San Antonio International Airport

Amtrak Information

Amtrak, the nation’s passenger train service, offers three lines that run through Texas. For more information on additional stops, prices or reservations, call 1-215-856-7924 or visit  www.amtrak.com .

Arrow Trailways of Texas , Greyhound Bus Lines , Kerrville Bus Co . and Valley Transit Co.  have scheduled service to and within the state.

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All Material © 2024 Office of the Governor, Economic Development and Tourism. All Rights Reserved. Reproduction in whole or in part is prohibited without the written permission of the publisher. Office of the Governor, Economic Development & Tourism 1100 San Jacinto, Austin, Texas 78701, (512) 463-2000