Top 15 Unforgettable Mementos to Bring Back from the Lone Star State - Texas Keepsakes
Texas, the second largest state in the U.S. and sometimes called its own country, is a unique destination with a proud identity. This Lone Star State is jam-packed with bucket-list experiences, making it no surprise that you'll find plenty of awesome souvenirs to remember your travels to Texas.
From Fort Worth's wide-brimmed cowboy hats to Austin's eclectic artwork, each region of Texas boasts its own micro-cultures, resulting in diverse souvenirs. This guide lays out the top 15 things to buy in Texas and provides insight into which part of the state each unique Texas souvenir is associated with.
1. Cowboy Hat - Fort Worth
Cowboy hats are synonymous with Texas, and you'll find no shortage of them in the city of Fort Worth. Originally derived from the Mexican sombrero, these hats serve both as protection from the hot Texas sun and a fashion statement. Look for high-quality hats from American brands like Stetson or Resistol.
2. Cowboy Boots - Fort Worth
No Texas wardrobe is complete without cowboy boots. Whether you're hitting the rodeo or simply want a stylish addition to your western-inspired outfit, head to Fort Worth's Stockyards district to find a pair that suits your taste.
3. Leather Goods - Various Regions
From belts to purses and cowhide rugs, Texas is known for its leather products. Belts featuring Texas belt buckles are a popular choice, and items like these make for unique keepsakes from your time in the Lone Star State.
4. Texas-Shaped Items - Various Regions
With its recognizable shape, Texas is famous for items shaped like the state. Whether you're in the far southwest corner, Big Bend National Park, or the North Texas city of Denton, you'll find Texas-shaped necklaces, wall art, cutting boards, and even waffle makers.
5. Texas Flag - Various Regions
Similar to its shape, the Texas flag is another recognizable symbol of the state. You'll see it flying alongside the U.S. flag in towns and cities across Texas, and you can purchase the flag to display at home or on clothing like t-shirts.
6. Barbecue Seasoning or BBQ Sauce - Various Regions
Texas barbecue is some of the best in the U.S., and bringing home the flavors is a must. Look for Texas barbecue seasoning or BBQ sauces to recreate the smoky taste at home.
7. Hot Sauce or Salsa - Various Regions
Texas has its own style of Mexican food, known as Tex-Mex, and the state's salsa and hot sauce are different from what you'll find in Mexico. From East Texas' Cajun-influenced hot sauce to West Texas' New Mexican-inspired salsa, there's a wide variety of flavors to choose from.
8. Texas Wine - Texas Hill Country
Home to some of the best family-friendly wineries in the U.S., Texas Hill Country between Austin and San Antonio is the perfect destination for wine enthusiasts. Visit Fredericksburg, where you'll find more than 50 wineries, and bring home a bottle or two from popular brands like Brennan, Becker, or Llano.
9. Beer - Various Regions
As prevalent as wineries are in Texas, breweries are just as common. Whether you're buying a travel gift for dad or a souvenir for yourself, a beer sampler from Texas, paired with a vintage Shiner Beer sign and a Texas koozie, makes for a great Texas souvenir.
10. Coffee Mug - Various Cities
For coffee lovers, a souvenir mug from your travels is always a thoughtful gift. Look for a mug with a popular Texas phrase, like "y'all," or one that celebrates the region of Texas you visited.
11. Magnet - Various Regions
One of the most popular souvenirs from Texas for an affordable price is a Texas magnet. Easy to pack in a carry-on bag, these magnets make great mementos to display on your fridge or purchase a magnetic board to showcase all of your magnets from your travels.
12. Holiday Ornament - Grapevine
Grapevine, Texas, is known as the Christmas capital of Texas. During the holidays, the city is blanketed in millions of lights, larger-than-life decorations, and hosts numerous Christmas and winter events. Pick up a Texas ornament while visiting this festive town.
13. Sports Team Apparel - Various Regions
Texans are die-hard sports fans, particularly when it comes to football. You'll see lots of people wearing jerseys and shirts with logos of the Dallas Cowboys or Houston Texans, as well as numerous Texas college teams. A t-shirt or jersey representing one of Texas' many professional or university teams makes for a great Texas souvenir.
14. Bluebonnet-Themed Souvenirs - Ennis
Known as the state flower, the bluebonnet is a symbol of Texas. Visit the town of Ennis during springtime to see trails and festivals dedicated to the beautiful bluebonnets. Purchase bluebonnet-themed souvenirs like seed packets or decorative items to bring a piece of Texas home with you.
15. Texas Cookbook - Various Regions
A good Texas cookbook gives you the opportunity to continue to enjoy Texas flavors long after your trip. Recreate delicious Texas dishes at home with a cookbook of Texas recipes. This souvenir allows you to continue the Texas experience well after your travels.
Where to find the Best Texas Souvenirs
Search for local gift shops or Texas souvenir shops in touristy areas and towns when in Texas. If you can't find exactly what you're looking for, consider shopping online. Texas gifts make for wonderful keepsakes and are meaningful reminders of your trip to the Lone Star State.
In addition to the diverse lifestyle offerings within Texas, home-and-garden enthusiasts can find unique items to enhance their decor, such as Texas-shaped cutting boards or cowhide rugs, throughout various regions of the state. For travelers seeking a taste of the Lone Star State back home, consider picking up a bottle of Texas Hill Country wine or a variety of Texas barbecue seasoning and sauces.
