This morning, enjoy a guided tour of North Texas Horse Country, one of the largest concentrations of horse farms in the United States. Visit a real working HORSE RANCH with a knowledgeable local guide for a true authentic experience. See beautiful vistas, relaxing backroads, and the gorgeous countryside—home to a variety of horse breeds and disciplines, including Quarter Horses, Thoroughbreds, Paints, Arabians, Appaloosas, and Warmbloods…they are all here. In the afternoon, return to Dallas for included city sightseeing that features Pioneer Plaza, commemorating the trails that brought settlers to Dallas and cattle to market; the Historic West End; and Dealey Plaza, where history buffs can learn all about that moment in history at the SIXTH FLOOR MUSEUM, the location from which the alleged killer, Lee Harvey Oswald, fired the lethal shots on November 22, 1963, that killed President John F. Kennedy.

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. Overnight in Fort Worth.

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.

A short drive from Austin to the most visited city in Texas: San Antonio, home of the Alamo and the historic River Walk. Upon arrival, sightseeing with a local guide includes visits to the SAN FERNANDO CATHEDRAL, the oldest in the U.S., and downtown’s authentic Mexican marketplace, El Mercado. Afterward, visit the ALAMO, where in 1836 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.

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.

Texas Hill Country is 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. Next, on to Fredericksburg, and time on your own. Spend the afternoon leisurely strolling the shopping district, perusing one-of-a-kind, eclectic shops, art galleries, and museums.

Houston is a city of firsts. The first word spoken on the moon was heard here, and 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.

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. Be a part of history in the making as you witness engineers, scientists, and astronauts shaping the future of space exploration. With this behind-the-scenes journey, you will also visit the Historic Apollo Mission Control Center, and Saturn V Rocket, the most powerful moon rocket ever built and one of only three moon rockets remaining in the world. (B)

NOTE:
The buildings visited on the tram tour are real working areas of Johnson Space Center and are subject to closure without notice.

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.

This morning, journey across Bayou Country into New Orleans, capital of Dixieland and the “City That Care Forgot.” Upon arrival, a guided sightseeing tour focuses on the sights and sounds of New Orleans, 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.

Your vacation ends this morning. You can extend your vacation in New Orleans with extra nights and explore further.