The Lone Star State to the French Quarter
The Lone Star State to the French Quarter
The Lone Star State to the French Quarter
12 Days
Visiting: Dallas, Fort Worth, Waco, Austin, Fredericksburg, San Antonio, Houston, Lafayette, Atchafalaya Basin, New Orleans
Tour operator:
Tour code:
8090-2024
Guide Type:
Fully Guided
Trip Styles:
Activities:
From:
$2640
$2450 (USD)
Operator discount: -$190
Tour Overview
With its large size and diversity, Texas locals say, “Texas, it’s like a whole other country.” On this tour through the Lone Star State, you’ll discover its major cities—Dallas, Austin, San Antonio, and Houston—and some of its historic landmarks, museums, and must-see sights before crossing into Louisiana for time in Lafayette and New Orleans. Highlights of this Texas tour include a behind-the-scenes tram tour of the Johnson Space Center, home to NASA and the U.S. Space Program. Witness engineers, scientists, and astronauts as they shape the future of space exploration, and visit the Historic Apollo Mission Control, where the NASA team monitored nine Gemini and all Apollo missions. The San Fernando Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the United States. Take a private, narrated cruise down the San Antonio River through the picturesque River Walk area and enjoy a cruise through Louisiana’s Atchafalaya Basin. In Fredericksburg, stroll the historic district shopping, pursuing one-of-a-kind, eclectic shops, art galleries, and museums. History buffs will be fascinated at the Sixth Floor Museum, the location from which Lee Harvey Oswald allegedly shot President John F. Kennedy. At the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park, hear the story of Johnson’s life. Also visit the Bob Bullock State History Museum that tells the “Story of Texas.” In North Texas Horse Country, visit a real working horse ranch with a knowledgeable local guide for a true authentic experience. Of course, no history buff can leave Texas without visiting the Alamo. All of this and much more await you on this Texas tour. For the value-minded traveler, there’s no better way to visit the Lone Star State!
Itinerary
Day 1 : Dallas
Location: Dallas
Welcome to Dallas! Your Tour Director is on hand late this afternoon to answer any questions.
Day 2 : Dallas
Location: Dallas
Today’s sightseeing features Pioneer Plaza, commemorating the trails that brought settlers to Dallas and cattle to market; the Historic West End; and The Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, where history buffs can learn all about that moment in history when alleged killer, Lee Harvey Oswald, fired the lethal shots that killed President John F. Kennedy on November 22, 1963.
Day 3 : Dallas,Fort Worth
Location: Dallas, Fort Worth
This morning, journey to Fort Worth, a Texas city famous for its unmistakable combination of “cowboys and culture.” Visit the Stockyards National Historic District and get a taste of the true American West. Afterward, meet the drovers/cowboys of the Fort Worth Herd and see a Longhorn cattle drive before visiting the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame. It’s here that the museum pays tribute to more than 70 cowboys and cowgirls who have excelled in the sport of rodeo, and the Western lifestyle. This evening, you may choose to enjoy Sundance Square, or visit Billy Bob’s, known as “The World’s Largest Honky Tonk”.
Day 4 : Fort Worth,Waco,Austin
Location: Fort Worth, Waco, Austin
Meals Included: Breakfast
In Waco, visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. Learn about the mission, history, staff, and governance of America’s first law enforcement historical center founded in 1964. Then visit the Bob Bullock State History Museum that tells the “Story of Texas.” Afterward, enjoy a city sightseeing tour that features Austin’s downtown, including historic Sixth Street, the Texas Capitol complex, Governor’s Mansion, and the University of Texas.
Day 5 : Austin,Fredericksburg
Location: Austin, Fredericksburg
Meals Included: Breakfast
A short drive from Austin is Texas Hill Country, home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park. Discover the story of the 36th president, from his ancestors to his final resting place, at the LBJ Ranch. See and learn about President and Mrs. Johnson’s lives on the ranch during a tour of the grounds that includes the Junction School, President Johnson’s reconstructed birthplace, Johnson Family cemetery and the hangar visitor center that features exhibits and artifacts. Next, on to Fredericksburg, and time on your own to enjoy this historic town. Spend the afternoon leisurely strolling the historic district shopping, perusing one-of-a-kind, eclectic shops, art galleries, and museums.
Day 6 : Fredericksburg,San Antonio
Location: Fredericksburg, San Antonio
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, journey to the most visited city in Texas: San Antonio, home of the Alamo and the historic River Walk. Upon arrival, sightseeing includes visits to the San Fernando Cathedral, the oldest in the U.S., and downtown’s authentic Mexican marketplace, El Mercado. Afterward, visit the historic Alamo. It was here in 1836 that a small band of Texans defended themselves against the Mexican army, and although the Alamo fell, it remains hallowed ground and symbolizes courage and sacrifice for the cause of liberty. End your day back at the River Walk, where Spanish colonial architecture, fountains, and plazas make it one of the city’s most picturesque areas.
Day 7 : San Antonio
Location: San Antonio
Meals Included: Breakfast
This morning, a private narrated cruise down the San Antonio River through the picturesque River Walk area. The remainder of the day is at leisure.
Day 8 : San Antonio,Houston
Location: San Antonio, Houston
Meals Included: Breakfast
Houston is a city of firsts. The first word spoken on the moon was heard here, and it is home to the first successful human heart transplant and America’s first public television station. Appreciate all that Houston has to offer on a sightseeing tour of America’s fourth-largest city. See the Theatre District, which is second only to New York City, and marvel at the world-famous Texas Medical Center, whose 675 acres and 42 nonprofit institutions make it the largest medical complex in the world. Last, but not least, is a visit to one of Houston’s most expensive neighborhoods, River Oaks.
Day 9 : Houston
Location: Houston
Meals Included: Breakfast
A special highlight today is a visit to Johnson Space Center, home of NASA and the U.S. Space Program. Be inspired by the wonders of space exploration and go behind the scenes of America’s exciting space program. View flown spacecraft, spacesuits, and get an up-close look at some of the most amazing artifacts that trace the progression of human space exploration including a look inside the International Space Station! NOTE: The buildings visited on the tram tour are real working areas of Johnson Space Center and are subject to closure without notice.
Day 10 : Houston,Lafayette
Location: Houston, Lafayette, Atchafalaya Basin
Meals Included: Breakfast
A beautiful drive past fertile prairies, delicate marshes, and abundant wildlife takes you to Lafayette, Louisiana. Cruise through moss-draped cypress trees and winding waterways of the Atchafalaya Basin swamp lands. Keep an eye out for lurking alligators as you experience one of the most unique wildernesses on earth.
Day 11 : Lafayette,New Orleans
Location: Lafayette, New Orleans
This morning, journey across Bayou Country to The Big Easy, New Orleans, birthplace of jazz and home of creole cuisine. Upon arrival, enjoy a guided sightseeing tour featuring French Quarter landmarks, including St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square, and a visit to a unique above-ground cemetery. Afternoon and evening are at leisure.
Day 12 : New Orleans
Location: New Orleans
Your vacation ends this morning. You may choose to extend your vacation in New Orleans with extra nights to explore further.
Notes
TEXAS STATE FAIR: Travel on the October 3 or 10 departures and be in Dallas for the annual Texas State Fair.
Meals
7 breakfasts
Accommodation
Hotel Indigo Dallas Downtown
Landmark 15-story Hotel in traditional European style with hand-hewn wood, marble & etched glass interior.
Crowne Plaza Dallas Downtown
Crowne Plaza® Dallas Downtown is ideally situated hotel in the heart of downtown Dallas, providing travelers a home base with a short walk to the Dallas Convention Center and just six miles from Love Field Airport. Contemporary decor, elegant furnishings and signature Crowne Plaza® amenities provide a haven for business and leisure guests alike.
Hyatt Place Fort Worth Cityview
The Hyatt Place Fort Worth City view is less than 4 miles from TCU and 7 miles south of downtown. Guest rooms are spacious and state-of-the-art.
Drury Inn and Suites Austin North
Located at I-35 and St John's - Easy access to shopping malls, University of Texas, Sixth Street District and downtown Austin.
Fredericksburg Inn & Suites
Discover a tranquil oasis in the heart of Texas Hill Country at Fredericksburg Inn & Suites, located on five beautiful acres alongside Barons Creek.
Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk
24 story restored hotel in the Alamo Bank Building on the Riverwalk - 4 blocks to Alamo Historic Site - 18 miles to SeaWorld.
Crowne Plaza Houston Galleria Area
This Houston hotel is perfectly located within minutes of Galleria Mall, Texas¿ largest and most luxurious shopping destination. Upscale amenities will make your stay very comfortable.
Holiday Inn & Suites Lafayette North
The newest full service hotel in Lafayette, Holiday Inn & Suites Lafayette North is located near the University of Louisiana at Lafayette.
La Quinta Inn & Suites New Orleans Downtown
Discover New Orleans' top attractions from their downtown hotel. Explore the vibrant nightlife, distinctive cuisine, and enjoyable music scene on Bourbon Street in the French Quarter. Their non-smoking hotel rooms come equipped with a desk, coffee machine, flat-screen HDTV, and ironing supplies. Additionally, our complimentary WiFi makes it simple to stay connected.
Check out our Q&As
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How long has the tour company been trading?
Since 1961
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What Ethical Travel credentials does the tour company have?
Cosmos is committed to minimizing our impact on the environment and to reducing dependence on non-renewable resources. In this endeavor, we have implemented policies to support this mission and are working carefully to enhance our products with this mission and our values combined. We are committed to complying with all relevant legislation and/or regulations.
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What documents will I receive before I travel?
Travel documents, including any air tickets, itineraries, and other information, are available approximately two to three weeks prior to departure provided full payment has been received.
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What happens if I need to change my holiday date once I’ve booked?
All guests are fully vaccinated against COVID-19 for travel through February, 2023. Beginning March 1, 2023, while we highly recommend vaccination, we will no longer require it. We ask all guests to comply with airline and destination requirements, which still may apply. To check your destination requirements for your travel dates, view the Latest Travel & Health Restrictions for Travel.
Reviews of this Operator
Dates & Availability
Thursday - Monday
May 16, 2024 - May 27, 2024Thursday - Monday
Jun 06, 2024 - Jun 17, 2024Thursday - Monday
Sep 19, 2024 - Sep 30, 2024Thursday - Monday
Oct 10, 2024 - Oct 21, 2024Thursday - Monday
Apr 24, 2025 - May 05, 2025Thursday - Monday
May 01, 2025 - May 12, 2025Thursday - Monday
May 29, 2025 - Jun 09, 2025Thursday - Monday
Sep 18, 2025 - Sep 29, 2025Thursday - Monday
Sep 25, 2025 - Oct 06, 2025Thursday - Monday
Oct 02, 2025 - Oct 13, 2025Thursday - Monday
Oct 09, 2025 - Oct 20, 2025Book with Confidence
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Low Deposit
Cosmos requires a minimum deposit of 200 GBP per person or the full booking value, whichever is less, with the final balance not due until 60 days before departure.
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Cancellation Policy
We don't charge a cancellation fee, here is a summary of cosmos charges.
Up to 65 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of deposit.
At 64 days before tour starts: Forfeit 20% of booking price.
At 21 days before tour starts: Forfeit 30% of booking price.
At 7 days before tour starts: Forfeit 50% of booking price.
At 1 days before tour starts: Forfeit 100% of booking price.