Elaborately carved to showcase the glorious wealth that the age of exploration brought to the Portuguese empire.

A king's pet, a pope's gift, an artist's inspiration, and a tragic shipwreck.

This unreal Portuguese palace looks as though it's made from a pile of different castles.

This eccentrically decorated palace is replete with grottoes, fountains, tunnels, and caves.

This is probably not the Target you're looking for.

The "world’s largest honky-tonk" also has its own indoor rodeo arena.

Roadside Americana, fairy tale characters, and Austin quirkiness come together at this magical course in the heart of Texas' capital city.

Controversially claiming the title of world's biggest bass drum, UT's Big Bertha was once made radioactive by the Manhattan Project.

Home to an endangered salamander, a full moon celebration, and a large spring-fed outdoor swimming pool.

The world's tallest statue of an American hero.

This massive oak tree has ties to the first native tribes of the region and the founders of Texas.

A free, canine-friendly alternative watering hole near the more famous Barton Springs.

A fruit-loving town welcomes visitors with a giant melon set against the sky.

Locals dubbed it the "Owl Building" because of its bird-like appearance.

The second largest roadrunner in the world stands 11 feet tall in his West Texas town.

An abandoned mine where dreams of quicksilver trickled away over 75 years ago.

Campus tradition says couples who walk beneath this enormous oak will stay together forever.

With print dying, this local paper keeps the lights on by doubling as a stunning cafe and cocktail bar.

This simple frog painting created by musician Daniel Johnston embodies the spirit of Austin.

An ivy-covered arch bridge dedicated to Tejano music singer and legend Rosita Fernandez.

A little stop along the Texas highway where Rock Hudson, Elizabeth Taylor, and James Dean stayed while shooting the 1955 film "Giant."

The peaceful space is adorned by paintings by the famed abstract artist Mark Rothko.

This old abandoned sign flickers to announce a motel that isn't even there.

Minimalist modern art on a repurposed military base in rural Texas.