Sports and leisure activities Texas

Budget & Tips

All public parks offer opportunities for jogging, outdoor yoga, martial arts or simply a stroll. In and around Austin, during the winter and autumn months, you can access Barton Springs free of charge, as well as other natural spring watering holes open to the public. It's a great way to do some swimming without having to pay anything, in a peaceful atmosphere.

You can also go horseback riding, accompanied by local professionals. Expect to pay between US$65-100 for a one-and-a-half or two-hour ride.

For treks and hikes through national parks, all you have to do is pay your entrance fee, which can cost between US$5 and US$20 per person, depending on the park. The entrance fee may also vary according to your mode of transport (with or without vehicle).

What's very local

Locals love going to American soccer games and all-day parties, locally known as tailgate parties. We'll go to bars and ice houses to drink beers and watch the games with friends. Another local tradition is to attend a rodeo competition, a typical Texas sport, where you can also enjoy a variety of games and entertainment. Every major Texas city has its own rodeo season, which can last up to three weeks, and each rodeo differs in size, with Houston's being one of the biggest.

Your documents please

In most parks, it's recommended to have a boating license if you were born before 1993, while it's imperative to have one if you were born after that date. However, this rule only applies to those wishing to drive a boat with more than 15 horsepower or a sailboat longer than 4.3 meters. You must be at least 18 years old to drive a boat in Texas.

To be booked

If you're looking to attend a basketball, American soccer or other stadium game, we recommend reserving your seat in advance.

For national and state parks, if you're looking to go camping, book in advance to be sure of a spot, especially for Big Bend National Park.

Main events

Here are three rodeos not to be missed if you're visiting:

Fort Worth Stock Show & Rodeo (www.fwssr.com): mid-January to early February.

Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo (www.rodeohouston.com): late February to mid-March.

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo (sarodeo.com): early to late February.