The second-largest state in the nation, Texas is chock-full of interesting people and places, the likes of which can’t be found anywhere else. Some of the state’s most off-beat sights are the most well-known and visited, like Big Tex in Fair Park or the Prada store in Marfa. But in a state this big, it’s no shock that some fun and interesting places inevitably slip under the radar. Whether it’s a Texas-style Eiffel Tower or a re-creation of Stonehenge, this state is full of surprises — no matter how long you’ve lived here.
One of the more notable Texas attractions, Cadillac Ranch is an interactive art installation that draws visitors from all over the country. Featuring 10 Cadillacs buried in the ground at the same angle as the Great Pyramid of Giza, Cadillac Ranch was created in 1974 by the art collective Ant Farm and its partner Stanley Marsh 3. Located right off Interstate 40, it’s an easy stop as you make your way toward Amarillo. When you’re done admiring the underground vehicles, break out your own can of spray paint so you can leave your own mark on the vehicles, just like the millions that came before. Because when you come to Cadillac Ranch, you’ll feel inspired to make a statement of your own.
Paris, France, might be the home of the original Eiffel Tower, but does it wear a cowboy hat? The re-creation in Paris, Texas, does. Putting a country stamp on the iconic structure, the 65-foot-tall Eiffel Tower of Texas was constructed in 1993 by a local ironworker’s union to be one-tenth the size of the original. The tower’s LED lights brighten the night sky with the Texas flair of its bright red cowboy hat. After snapping a few pics of the Lone Star State’s take on the famous Parisian tower, spend an afternoon exploring downtown Paris. The historic town square is full of cute boutiques, small businesses and mom-and-pop shops, many of which feature souvenirs paying homage to its local landmark.
Austin is known for being weird, and one thing that helps cement that reputation is its Cathedral Of Junk. Sitting in the backyard of creator Vince Hannemann, the Cathedral Of Junk is made with over 60 tons of garbage. Vince started building it in 1988 and has been busy adding to the structure ever since. Visitors can walk through its various passageways and stairways while marveling at its vaulted ceilings and multiple levels, all made with different types of debris. The Cathedral Of Junk is strong enough to weather the state’s craziest storms and has played host to a number of parties, events and even weddings. After all, it is still a cathedral, even if it’s made out of junk.
While the original is across the pond in Wiltshire, England, Texans can soak up the vibes of Stonehenge at the state’s replica in Ingram. Originally created as an art project by Al Shepperd and his neighbor Doug Hill in 1989, Stonehenge II is a plaster and wire mesh replica of the English monument. Following Shepperd’s passing in 1994, the structures found their new and permanent home in the Hill Country in 2011 after its original property was sold. Once you take a gander at the towering sculptures, drive just 15 minutes southeast to Kerrville, where you can keep the fun times rolling by visiting Crider’s Rodeo and Dancehall or the Trailhead Beer Garden.