Really, It's True
Austin ranks among America's best summer vacation spots
With the hot and humid weather, Texas isn't often thought of as a prime summer vacation destination. But three cities in the Lone Star State rank among the top 12 in the nation where you get the most bang for your travel buck, according to a new survey.
WalletHub compared 80 of the most populated metro areas across six categories, including travel costs and hassles, local costs, the number of attractions, weather, activities, and safety to determine the nation's best vacation spots.
Houston-The Woodland-Sugar Land came in as the top vacation spot in Texas, ranking No. 7 in the nation, while Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington was close behind at No. 8. The Austin-Round Rock area came in at No. 12.
San Antonio-New Braunfels ranks No. 38, El Paso in No. 40, and McAllen-Edinburg-Mission is No. 42.
Houston and Dallas benefit from low travel costs and hassles, plus a large number of attractions. Even Houston's much-maligned weather ranks a relatively modest 26 out of the 80 areas surveyed.
Austin scores well for activities, as well as the number of attractions and their diversity. The weather here, however, scores worse than Houston, at No. 38.
San Antonio and McAllen rank in the top five for lowest local costs, while McAllen is in the bottom five for fewest attractions and activities.
Las Vegas, Los Angeles, and Orlando rank as the top three metros for wallet-friendly summer fun.
