Texans living in Pearland and The Woodlands have some of the best attractions in the state, according to the 2024 Texas Travel Awards, which offer some of the most unique experiences in the state that every traveler should see for themselves.

In all, the Houston area took home six awards this year, compared to the two that were awarded in 2023.

The Texas Travel Awards were created by Austin Monthly, San Antonio Magazine, and Texas Music publishers, and the winners are decided by a panel of industry professional judges, travel journalists, and one musician. The 49 awards were split into two smaller groups: statewide best attractions and best attractions by population. The latter was further divided into market size: small/mid and big market.

The Woodlands earned three total accolades this year, starting with the The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion, which was crowned the best "Big Market Live Music Venue." The popular stage has hosted a variety of big music acts, such as Frank Sinatra, Sting, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, and many more.

But most importantly, The Cynthia Woods Mitchell Pavilion uses the revenue from concert ticket sales to put on free art events for the local community. Free shows and activities include Houston Ballet and Houston Symphony performances, childrens' arts education events, arts training, and more.

The pavilion is also a short drive away from the best resort in Texas: the newly renovated The Woodlands Resort, Curio Collection by Hilton. The resort offers more than 400 luxurious guest rooms with breathtaking views of Lake Harrison and beyond. The hotel is also a great place for getting active, according to an overview from the Texas Travel Awards.

"There’s a bike rental service for nature lovers who want to explore more than 220 miles of pathways through the trees, and kayak and paddleboard rentals for adventurers who’d like to spend time on the lake," the overview said. "Tennis courts are waiting for anyone who’d like to engage in a game of tennis or pickleball, and spa services are at the ready for those who want to unwind at the Resort."

Finally, The Woodlands' Art Benches and Art Bike Rack Project won an award for the best statewide public art display. 34 uniquely designed art benches and bike racks can be found throughout the city's Town Center area, all within walking distance from each other.

Other Houston-area attractions that won Texas Travel Awards include:

• Festa Italiana in Bryan – Best "Big Market" Food Festival or Event
• Hullabaloo Music Festival in Bryan – Best "Big Market" Music Festival or Event
• Killen's Barbecue in Pearland – Best "Big Market" Restaurant

Awards elsewhere in Texas
The Hill Country won the most awards out of any other area in Texas, further solidifying the region's soaring popularity among travelers. New Braunfels earned the highest number of accolades by far out in the Texas Travel Awards, even going so far as to be designated 2024's "Destination of the Year."

"The city’s vibrant downtown is full of character, with historic architecture housing one-of-a-kind shops, art galleries, speakeasies, craft breweries and eateries," its overview said. "Only blocks from the spring-fed Comal River, visitors and patrons can spend a day tubing or lounging riverside, then meander to downtown for live music, dining, shopping, wandering, and exploring."

New Braunfels won five awards in the “Big Market” awards by population. One business triumphed twice. They are:

• Phoenix Saloon – Best Bar
• Thru the Chute Cardboard Boat Race – Best Community Event and Best Under the Radar Activity
• 8Sages-The Dolly Cottage – Best Instagrammable Spot
• Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch – Best Outdoor Activity

• Gruene Hall – Best Iconic Tourist Attraction
• Gruene Historic District – Best Shopping District
• Dry Comal Creek Vineyards – Best Winery

The full list of winners in the 2023 Texas Travel Awards can be found at texastravelawards.com.