A curated journey through Texas and the Southern United States, where wide-open spaces, iconic flavo
Swap snow for Spanish moss and jazz: this 8-day holiday tour moves from Fort Worth’s cowboy lights to New Orleans’ candlelit balconies, pairing rodeos, rocket-themed light shows and bayou swamp cruises for a warm Southern Christmas. Read on for highlights and practical tips.
More ways to explore the area's outdoor wonders
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Difficulty
moderate
Duration
8 days / 7 nights
Fitness Level
Light to moderate fitness for walking tours, some short hikes on swamp boardwalks, and full-day transfers; accessible to most travelers who can manage 2–4 hours of walking in a day.
Wildlife
History
The route links Texas frontier history (Alamo and Stockyards) with Louisiana’s French-Acadian and Creole heritage, reflecting centuries of cultural exchange along Gulf trade routes.
Conservation
Bayou and coastal ecosystems are sensitive—opt for guided swamp tours that follow responsible viewing distances and support local conservation fees when offered.
A curated journey through Texas and the Southern United States, where wide-open spaces, iconic flavo
Pack layers
Bring a midweight jacket and a light rain shell—temperatures vary from inland chill to coastal mild during the day and evening.
Comfortable shoes
Cobblestones, riverwalks and boardwalks demand sturdy, broken-in walking shoes for long evening strolls.
Book event extras early
Reserve rodeo tickets, swamp tours and steamboat lunches in advance—Christmas-week dates sell out quickly.
Cash for small vendors
Bring some cash for holiday markets, street musicians and smaller eateries that may prefer cash for quick purchases.
Layered jacket
Helps manage variable coastal and inland temperatures during evenings and bayou mornings.
winter
Comfortable walking shoes
Necessary for cobblestone streets, River Walk paths and light trail sections on swamp tours.
Compact rain shell
Light showers are possible; a packable shell keeps you dry during outdoor light displays and cruises.
winter
Camera or smartphone with low-light capability
Capture trail-of-lights displays, candlelit architecture and nighttime jazz scenes.