texas road trip playlist

The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist by Texans, for Texans

What makes a good road trip playlist? It’s difficult to pin down an exact formula, but great road songs are usually evocative of the sense of adventure. They break the mood and monotony of the drive. They can tell stories of lost loves or homes, or their beat can mimic the rhythmic whirring of tires on asphalt. The best road songs do more than break the boredom of a long drive, they drive you on, inspire detours, and bring the landscape to life.

Texas is a state that has inspired more than a few epic road trips , so it is no surprise that Texas musicians are masters of the road song. It is difficult to reduce the Lone Star State’s vast catalog of road-bound jams to a single car stereo road trip playlist, but we gave it a shot.

“On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson

Where else can we start than Nelson’s 1980 hit, more or less the quintessential song for the road? Its simplicity distills the anticipation, excitement, and boundless optimism that inspires the start of any road trip.

“King of the Road” by Roger Miller

Miller’s 1965 crossover country hit is another one of the most iconic road songs ever written. We can all identify with its main character, a carefree hobo who pushes brooms long enough to float farther down the road, enjoying the freedom that America’s highway-crisscrossed landscape evokes.

“Amarillo by Morning” by George Strait

All it takes is the yearning moan of an opening fiddle lick followed by the lilting uplift of the opening vocal melody for Strait’s masterpiece to perfectly capture that melancholic flipside to the optimism of a great road tune. Strait’s song embodies the sadness that can accompany departing and arriving, the changes that travel inspires, and the realization that roads take us not only from places, but also from people and the past.

“Amarillo Highway” by Terry Allen

What is it about the dusty Panhandle town of Amarillo that inspires some of Texas’ best songwriters? Perhaps it is precisely because it is so far-flung, located in the midst of such a great expanse of flatness, that it springs up from the hard Texas earth despite the inhospitable landscape around it. Allen’s stomping honky-tonk anthem captures the character such a place breeds perfectly with a song that is full up of dry wit, wry irony, defiance, pride, and pure Texas swagger.

“Lone Star State of Mind” by Nanci Griffith

The young Nanci Griffith’s early hit is a forgotten country gem full of genuine feeling, hummable melodies, and sweet, evocative lyrics. But it is the double-time shuffle on the snare drum that will make you want to point the bumper west and hope you’ll never arrive at the horizon.

“Dublin Blues” by Guy Clark

On the surface, Clark’s cranky ballad appears to be inspired by a simple bout of homesickness that conjures a taste for Austin while wandering abroad. But peel back the layers, and Clark is reeling over lost love and looking for things on the road that are too far gone to ever reach again.

“Galveston” by Glen Campbell

There may be no better song about a Texas locale than Campbell’s seaside ballad. His expansive crooning conjures a tale of lives and worlds caught in the undertow of time and the horror of war as innocence confronts experience in the form of a lost love that doubles as a lost home.

“Waltz Across Texas” by Ernest Tubb

Even if your next road trip isn’t snaking its way along a trail that connects the state’s many fairytale sawdust dance halls, Tubb’s very endearing country swing hit will lift you on your journey.

“Dallas” by Jimmie Dale Gilmore

They stopped flying DC-9s out of Dallas Love Field years ago, but Gilmore’s reflective ballad, which departs from observing the glittering Dallas skyline from an airplane, captures all the conflicted emotion of shaking the dust off one’s feet, blowing town, and moving on.

“Pancho and Lefty” by Townes Van Zandt

The song was made a hit by Willie Nelson, but in Townes’ imperfect rendition, the song feels most alive. In it, Texas’ greatest songwriter penned an enduring cowboy tale that is at once historical and timeless, a story of all the things we encounter on the road — the mistakes of the past, the dreams of the future, heartache, hope, and ourselves.

“Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” by Waylon Jennings with Willie Nelson

In a state that prides itself on large landscape and outsized personality, it is one of its tiniest hamlets that serves as a stand-in for all that is good and lovely about Texas. Luckenbach, as it is perfectly enshrined in Waylon and Willie’s unofficial Texas National Anthem, is what you hope lies at the end of every Texas road trip: a place where you are welcomed and where you find the ones you love.

“Me and Bobby McGee” by Janis Joplin

Brownsville-born Kris Kristofferson’s elegy to road drifting and young love may be the best road song ever written, but in the hands of a certain young soul singer from Port Arthur it became something more: an anthem of American life and a meditation on the false promises of freedom, love, and the American dream.

Think you know Texas? Check out our list of the state’s most important musicians of the last century .

The Great Texas Road Trip Playlist and Game

It's a long journey through the Lone Star State. Here are a couple ways to preoccupy your noggin while on the road.

by Brian Kendall

March 1, 2024

Brian Kendall

Road Trip West Texas

Your mind and ears need more than the sound of road hum when traversing over 3,000 miles.

Texas Tunes Playlist

A little something for everyone – so long as everyone is in Texas

“On the Road Again” – Willie Nelson

“Texas Sun” – Leon Bridges and Khruangbin

“El Paso” – Marty Robbins

“That’ll Be the Day” – Buddy Holly

“Texas Hold ‘Em” – Beyoncé

“Circles” – Post Malone

“Bidi Bidi Bom Bom” – Selena

“Amarillo By Morning” – George Strait

“Pancho and Lefty” – Townes Van Zandt

“San Antonio Rose” – Bob Wills

“Bright Lights” – Gary Clark Jr.

“Me and Bobby McGee” – Janis Joplin

“Texas Flood” – Stevie Ray Vaughn

“Miles and Miles of Texas” – Red Steagall

Click here to listen to the playlist on Spotify.

I Spy: Texas Road Trip Edition

To help pass the time, can you spot these 21 things when on the road?

White horse
Old Texaco gas station
Abandoned barn
Windmills atop a mesa
Repurposed Pizza Hut
Taxidermist
Beef jerky shop
“Don’t Mess with Texas” sign
Peach stand
Pecan stand
Armadillo (Living)
Town sign with a pop. <1,000
Water tower displaying high school mascot
Old movie theater sign

Back to Great Texas Road Trip Homepage

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RVing with Rex

Living his dream, Rex Vogel is a Snowbird with a passion for RVing, photography, hiking, and birding.

Texas Road Trip Playlist: Sing Your Way across Texas

These road trip songs will make your next drive across Texas a memorable one whether you’re driving a roadster or an RV

Texans’ love for Texas runs deep and unsurprisingly, the musically inclined among us tend to share a common muse—the state itself.

Musicians have written endlessly about their affection for and occasional vexation toward the Lone Star State. There are thousands and thousands of songs about Texas. So many so that the sheer number of Texas tunes has spawned its own subset of songs—songs about songs about Texas.

In one such tune, aptly titled “Songs About Texas,” Pat Green sings, “I tell you friends there’s a song in every town,” implying that there’s a song about every Texas town.

A thorough internet search proves that Green isn’t entirely right, but he isn’t entirely wrong either. Though there isn’t a song for every one of the state’s many places—the great state of Texas boasts more than 1,200 incorporated cities—there are several stellar songs about Texas towns which I started assembling here.

The music showcased in my playlist stretches across decades, genres and, of course, the state’s varied geography. On the list are Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys’ “I’m a Ding Dong Daddy from Dumas,” Waylon Jennings’ “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” and George Strait’s “Amarillo By Morning.”

You can peruse the full list of songs about Texas towns below.

“No Place But Texas” by Willie Nelson

Key lyrics: God painted the bluebonnets in the fields / By a tough little scrub oak on an East Texas hill / And he plucked the star from a lone star sky / And he put it in the twinkle of a cowboy’s eye / The wide open spaces he made wild and free / Texas as far as any eye can see / And he made her sons grow tough and strong / They still cry when they hear a sad song

Related: Ultimate Road Trip Playlist: Sing Your Way Across America

Abilene: “Abilene” by Waylon Jennings

Key lyrics: Abilene, Abilene / Prettiest town I’ve ever seen / Women there don’t treat you mean / In Abilene, my Abilene

Amarillo: “Amarillo By Morning” by George Strait

Key lyrics: Amarillo by mornin’/ Up from San Antone/ Everything that I got / Is just what I’ve got on / When that Sun is high / In that Texas sky/ I’ll be buckin’ at the county fair / Amarillo by mornin’ / Amarillo I’ll be there

Bandera: “Bandera Waltz” by Ernest Tubb

Key lyrics: I danced with an angel one night ‘neath the stars / While cowboys were singing and playing guitars / The tune they were playing was a beautiful waltz / And they called it Bandera and the Bandera Waltz

Beaumont: “Beaumont” by Hayes Carll

Key lyrics: All the way from Beaumont / With a white rose in my hand / I could not wait forever babe / I hope you understand

Brownsville: “Brownsville Girl” by Bob Dylan

Key lyrics: Brownsville girl with your Brownsville / Curls, teeth like pearls shining like the / Moon above / Brownsville girl / If you show me all around the world, Brownsville girl, you’re my honey / Love

China Grove: “China Grove” by Doobie Brothers

Key lyrics: When the sun comes up on a sleepy little town / Down around San Antone / And the folks are risin’ for another day / ‘Round about their homes / The people of the town are strange / And they’re proud of where they came / Well, you’re talkin’ ‘bout china grove / Oh, China grove

College Station: “Traveler’s Song” by Flatland Cavalry

Key lyrics: Well, I miss College Station / Them boys were good to me / Well, I burned North Gate down / I been the life of the party / I seen that twelve man town / Through a tailgate sea

Corpus Christi: “Corpus Christi Bay” by Robert Earl Keen

Key lyrics: I worked the rigs from three to midnight / On the Corpus Christi Bay / I’d get off and drink till daylight / Sleep the morning away / I had a plan to take my wages / Leave the rigs behind for good / But that life it is contagious / And it gets down in your blood

Related: Visit SIX Iconic Texas Landmarks on One Road Trip

Dallas: “Dallas” by The Flatlanders

Key lyrics: Did you ever see Dallas from a DC-9 at night? / Well Dallas is a jewel, oh yeah, Dallas is a beautiful sight / And Dallas is a jungle but Dallas gives a beautiful light / Did you ever see Dallas from a DC-9 at night?

Del Rio: “Rio” by Duran Duran

Key lyrics: Her name is Rio and she dances on the sand / Just like that river twists across a dusty land / And when she shines, she really shows you all she can / Oh Rio, Rio dance across the Rio Grande

Dumas: “I’m a Ding Dong Daddy from Dumas” by Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys

Key lyrics: I reckon you all don’t know me at all / I just got here today / My home is way down in a little town / It’s not so far away / Everybody for miles around / Calls me by my name / Now that I am in your fair town / You must do the same / For I’m a / Ding dong daddy from Dumas / You ought to see me do my stuff

El Paso: “El Paso” by Marty Robbins

Key lyrics: From thirty thousand feet above / The desert floor, I see it there below / A city with a legend / The west Texas city of El Paso

Fort Worth, “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind?” by George Strait

Key lyrics: Cold Fort Worth beer, just ain’t no good for jealous / I’ve tried it night, after night / You’re in someone else’s arms in Dallas / Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?

Galveston: “Galveston” by Glen Campbell

Key lyrics: Galveston, oh Galveston / I still hear your sea waves crashing / While I watch the cannons flashing / I clean my gun / And dream of Galveston

Haskell: “West Texas Highway” by Lyle Lovett

Key lyrics: I’m mighty glad / You were going my way / In your brand new clothes there / And your great big Chevrolet / I’m going down to Haskell / Got a woman down in Abilene

Houston: “Houston (Means that I’m one day closer to you)” by The Gatlin Brothers

Key lyrics: Houston, Houston means / That I’m one day closer to you, oh honey / Houston, Houston means / The last day of the tour and we’re through / Well honey, you and God in heaven above / Know I love what I do for a living, I do / Ah, but Houston, Houston means / That I’m one day closer to you

Huntsville: “Huntsville” by Merle Haggard

Key lyrics: They caught me on a caper that I planned for days / And proved everything I’ve done / I’m on my way to Huntsville / But I’m looking for a chance to run

La Grange: “La Grange” by ZZ Top

Key lyrics : Rumor spreadin’ ‘round / In that Texas town / About that shack outside La Grange / And you know what I’m talkin’ about / Just let me know if you wanna go / To that home out on the range / They got a lot of nice girls

Laredo: “The Wheels of Laredo” by The Highwomen

Key lyrics: On a winter night in Webb County, Texas / On the North Bank of the mighty Rio Grande / I was watching the jungle fires a-burnin’ / Across the border of a not-so-distant land / And the echoes of the church bells that were swingin’ / Could be heard from Guadalupe Market Square / There was a girl down there in the south side of the river / She had feathers tied into her long black hair

Levelland: “Levelland” by James McMurtry

Key lyrics: Flatter than a tabletop / Makes you wonder why they stopped here / Wagon must have lost a wheel or they lacked ambition one / On the great migration west / Separated from the rest / Though they might have tried their best / They never caught the sun / So they sunk some roots down in the dirt / To keep from blowin’ off the earth / Built a town around here / And when the dust had all but cleared / They called it Levelland, the pride of man / In Levelland

Related: The Spotlight Shines on Unique Small Texas Towns

Lubbock: “Lonely Lubbock Lights” by Aaron Watson

Key lyrics: So I’ll drive all night long / Until I find where we went wrong / But there’s no love in sight / Just those lonely Lubbock lights

Luckenbach: “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” by Waylon Jennings with Willie Nelson

Key lyrics: Let’s go to Luckenbach, Texas / With Waylon and Willie and the boys / This successful life we’re livin’ / Got us feuding like the Hatfields and McCoys / Between Hank Williams’ pain songs and / Newbury’s train songs and ‘Blue Eyes Cryin’ in the Rain’ / Out in Luckenbach, Texas, ain’t nobody feelin’ no pain

Marfa: “Marfa Lights” by Kaitlin Butts

Key lyrics: Oh I’ll be your cosmic cowgirl / If you’ll be my moonlit sky / I’ll chase you around low and high, yeah / We’re just out of reach, we’re just out of sight / Like the Marfa lights / Like the Marfa lights

Memphis: “Memphis Texas” by Cooder Graw, Chip Taylor & Carrie Rodriguez

Key lyrics: If you’d like to get to know me / I know who I am / Lay off that sweet talk / Let go of my hand / Just take one step back / And give me some space / Don’t stay away / And I’ll take you someplace

Midland: “Fair to Midland” by Dwight Yoakam

Key lyrics: Fare to Midland is all that I need / If I had fair to Midland, I’d take the first seat / On a fast train, bus, or plane / Which ever proved the quickest way for me

Nacogdoches: “Buenos Noches Nacogdoches” by Billy Walker

Key lyrics: Buenas noches Nacogdoches / I bid farewell to you, I’m leaving town today / Buenas noches Nacogdoches / I’ll shake the dust off my boots and ride away

Pecos: “Pecos Promenade” by Tanya Tucker

Key lyrics: Lead off with the Cotton-Eyed Joe / Buckin’ winged, and heel and toe / Hold me close for the Pecos Promenade / Big sign hangin’ by the door / Sawdust on an old dance floor / Tip your hat for the Pecos Promenade

Port Arthur: “Port Arthur Waltz” by Harry Choates

Key lyrics: He, mignonne / I know I’m leaving Port Arthur, jolie fille, chérie / Oh, chère, mais, moi j’connais, j’mérite pas ça

Related: Texas is BIG—Beautiful & Diverse

San Angelo: “San Angelo” by Marty Robbins

Key lyrics: North of the border of Old Mexico / I rode one day to the cowtown of San Angelo / A hot sun was glowing, a hot breeze was blowing / Still not as warm as the lips that I waited to kiss

San Antonio: “New San Antonio Rose” by Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys

Key lyrics: Deep within my heart lies a melody / A song of old San Antone / Where in dreams I live with a memory / Beneath the stars all alone / It was there I found beside the Alamo / Enchantment strange as the blue up above / A moonlit pass that only she would know / Still hears my broken song of love

San Benito: “The Valley” by Charley Crockett

Key lyrics: I’m from San Benito, Texas / Down a dirty dusty road / There was sugarcane and cotton / How I used to watch it grow

Santa Fe: “Santa Fe” by Augie Meyers

Key lyrics: Headin’ on down to Santa Fe / Seem like I have / Lost my way / There was something I did not see / But, oh Lord she had a hold on me

Selma: “Velma from Selma” by Augie Meyers

Key lyrics: Velma from Selma / Won’t you please tell me what to do / You wanna be my lover / We got some ground to cover / ‘Cause I sure don’t wanna be no enchilada

South Padre: “Somewhere Between Texas and Mexico” by Pat Green

Key lyrics: South Padre Island to the Brownsville Bay / My heart is healing with each breaking way / But I got some real friends and they’re ready to go / Somewhere between Texas and Mexico / Somewhere between Texas and Mexico

Sweetwater: “Sweetwater, Texas” by The Charlie Daniels Band

Key lyrics: And if the good Lord see the way / To let me live one more day / I’m so tired of being alone / Gonna ride a white horse over Durango Mountain / And make Sweetwater Texas my home

Terlingua: “Terlingua Sky” by Gary P. Nunn

Key lyrics: The nights would pass so quickly / But there’s a feeling that still lingers on / As we pass around the tomb / That big yellow moon lights us up / ‘Neath the Terlingua Sky

Texarkana: “Texarkana” by R.E.M.

Key lyrics: 40, 000 stars in the evening / Look at them fall from the sky / 40, 000 reasons for living / 40, 000 tears in your eyes

Waco: “Wacko from Waco” by Billy Joe Shaver

Key lyrics: I’m a wacko from Waco, ain’t no doubt about it / Shot a man there in the head but can’t talk much about it / He was trying to shoot me, but he took too long to aim / Anybody in my place, would have done the same / I don’t start fights, I finish fights, that’s the way I’ll always be / I’m a wacko from Waco, you best not mess with me

Waxahachie: “Waxahachie” by Miranda Lambert, Jon Randall, and Jack Ingram

Key lyrics: Waxahachie, are you still on 35? / Are you still an all-night drive from Louisiana? / Waxahachie, I can be there by 4 a.m. / Looking for a long-lost friend / That’s what you’ve always been / Waxahachie / Ooh, Waxahachie

Wichita: “Wichita Lineman” by Glen Campbell

Key lyrics: I hear you singing in the wire / I can hear you through the whine / And the Wichita lineman / Is still on the line

Worth Pondering…

You’ve heard the old Willie Nelson country music song with the lyrics, “On the road again. Just can’t wait to get on the road again…” We’ll be singing this song for sure.

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Texas road trip playlist: Sing your way across the state, from ‘Galveston, oh Galveston’ to the ‘West Texas Town of El Paso’

Briana Zamora-Nipper , Community Producer

Texans’ love for Texas runs deep and unsurprisingly, the musically-inclined among us tend to share a common muse – the state itself.

Musicians have written endlessly about their affection for‚ and occasional vexation toward, the Lone Star State. There are thousands and thousands of songs about Texas. So many so that the sheer number of Texas tunes has spawned its own subset of songs – songs about songs about Texas.

Abilene: “Abilene,” Waylon Jennings

Key lyrics: “Abilene, Abilene / Prettiest town I’ve ever seen / Women there don’t treat you mean / In Abilene, my Abilene”

Amarillo: “Amarillo By Morning,” George Strait

Key lyrics: “Amarillo by mornin’/ Up from San Antone/ Everything that I got / Is just what I’ve got on / When that Sun is high / In that Texas sky/ I’ll be buckin’ at the county fair / Amarillo by mornin’ / Amarillo I’ll be there”

Bandera: “Bandera Waltz,” Ernest Tubb

Key lyrics: “I danced with an angel one night ‘neath the stars / While cowboys were singing and playing guitars / The tune they were playing was a beautiful waltz / And they called it Bandera and the Bandera Waltz”

Beaumont: “Beaumont,” Hayes Carll

Key lyrics: “All the way from Beaumont / With a white rose in my hand / I could not wait forever babe / I hope you understand”

Brownsville: “Brownsville Girl,” Bob Dylan

Key lyrics: “Brownsville girl with your Brownsville / Curls, teeth like pearls shining like the / Moon above / Brownsville girl / If you show me all around the world, Brownsville girl, you’re my honey / Love”

China Grove: “China Grove,” Doobie Brothers

Key lyrics: “When the sun comes up on a sleepy little town / Down around San Antone / And the folks are risin’ for another day / ‘Round about their homes / The people of the town are strange / And they’re proud of where they came / Well, you’re talkin’ ‘bout china grove / Oh, China grove”

College Station: “Traveler’s Song,” Flatland Cavalry

Key lyrics: “Well, I miss College Station / Them boys were good to me / Well, I burned North Gate down / I been the life of the party / I seen that twelve man town / Through a tailgate sea”

Corpus Christi: “Corpus Christi Bay,” Robert Earl Keen

Key lyrics: “I worked the rigs from three to midnight / On the Corpus Christi Bay / I’d get off and drink till daylight / Sleep the morning away / I had a plan to take my wages / Leave the rigs behind for good / But that life it is contagious / And it gets down in your blood”

Dallas: “Dallas,” The Flatlanders

Key lyrics: “Did you ever see Dallas from a DC-9 at night? / Well Dallas is a jewel, oh yeah, Dallas is a beautiful sight / And Dallas is a jungle but Dallas gives a beautiful light / Did you ever see Dallas from a DC-9 at night?”

Del Rio: “Rio,” Duran Duran

Key lyrics: “Her name is Rio and she dances on the sand / Just like that river twists across a dusty land / And when she shines, she really shows you all she can / Oh Rio, Rio dance across the Rio Grande”

Dumas: “I’m a Ding Dong Daddy from Dumas,” Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys

Key lyrics: “I reckon you all don’t know me at all / I just got here today / My home is way down in a little town / It’s not so far away / Everybody for miles around / Calls me by my name / Now that I am in your fair town / You must do the same / For I’m a / Ding dong daddy from Dumas / You ought to see me do my stuff”

El Paso: “El Paso,” Marty Robbins

Key lyrics: “From thirty thousand feet above / The desert floor, I see it there below / A city with a legend / The west Texas city of El Paso”

Fort Worth, “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind?” George Strait

Key lyrics: “Cold Fort Worth beer, just ain’t no good for jealous / I’ve tried it night, after night / You’re in someone else’s arms in Dallas / Does Fort Worth ever cross your mind?”

Galveston: “Galveston,” Glen Campbell

Key lyrics: “Galveston, oh Galveston / I still hear your sea waves crashing / While I watch the cannons flashing / I clean my gun / And dream of Galveston”

Haskell: “West Texas Highway,” Lyle Lovett

Key lyrics: “I’m mighty glad / You were going my way / In your brand new clothes there / And your great big Chevrolet / I’m going down to Haskell / Got a woman down in Abilene”

Houston: “Houston (Means that I’m one day closer to you),” The Gatlin Brothers

Key lyrics: “Houston, Houston means / That I’m one day closer to you, oh honey / Houston, Houston means / The last day of the tour and we’re through / Well honey, you and God in heaven above / Know I love what I do for a living, I do / Ah, but Houston, Houston means / That I’m one day closer to you”

Huntsville: “Huntsville,” by Merle Haggard

Key lyrics: “They caught me on a caper that I planned for days / And proved everything I’ve done / I’m on my way to Huntsville / But I’m looking for a chance to run”

La Grange: “La Grange,” ZZ Top

Key lyrics: “Rumour spreadin’ ‘round / In that Texas town / About that shack outside La Grange / And you know what I’m talkin’ about / Just let me know if you wanna go / To that home out on the range / They got a lot of nice girls”

Laredo: “The Wheels of Laredo,” The Highwomen

Key lyrics: “On a winter night in Webb County, Texas / On the North Bank of the mighty Rio Grande / I was watching the jungle fires a-burnin’ / Across the border of a not-so-distant land / And the echoes of the church bells that were swingin’ / Could be heard from Guadalupe Market Square / There was a girl down there in the south side of the river / She had feathers tied into her long black hair”

Levelland: “Levelland,” James McMurtry

Key lyrics: “Flatter than a tabletop / Makes you wonder why they stopped here / Wagon must have lost a wheel or they lacked ambition one / On the great migration west / Separated from the rest / Though they might have tried their best / They never caught the sun / So they sunk some roots down in the dirt / To keep from blowin’ off the earth / Built a town around here / And when the dust had all but cleared / They called it Levelland, the pride of man / In Levelland”

Lubbock: “Lonely Lubbock Lights,” Aaron Watson

Key lyrics: “So I’ll drive all night long / Until I find where we went wrong / But there’s no love in sight / Just those lonely Lubbock lights”

Luckenbach: “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love),” Waylon Jennings with Willie Nelson

Key lyrics: “Let’s go to Luckenbach, Texas / With Waylon and Willie and the boys / This successful life we’re livin’ / Got us feuding like the Hatfields and McCoys / Between Hank Williams’ pain songs and / Newbury’s train songs and ‘Blue Eyes Cryin’ in the Rain’ / Out in Luckenbach, Texas, ain’t nobody feelin’ no pain”

Marfa: “Marfa Lights,” Kaitlin Butts

Key lyrics: “Oh I’ll be your cosmic cowgirl / If you’ll be my moonlit sky / I’ll chase you around low and high, yeah / We’re just out of reach, we’re just out of sight / Like the Marfa lights / Like the Marfa lights”

Memphis: “Memphis Texas,” Cooder Graw, Chip Taylor & Carrie Rodriguez

Key lyrics: “If you’d like to get to know me / I know who I am / Lay off that sweet talk / Let go of my hand / Just take one step back / And give me some space / Don’t stay away / And I’ll take you someplace”

Midland: “Fair to Midland,” Dwight Yoakam

Key lyrics: “Fare to Midland is all that I need / If I had fair to Midland, I’d take the first seat / On a fast train, bus, or plane / Which ever proved the quickest way for me”

Nacogdoches: “Buenos Noches Nacogdoches,” Billy Walker

Key lyrics: “Buenas noches Nacogdoches / I bid farewell to you, I’m leaving town today / Buenas noches Nacogdoches / I’ll shake the dust off my boots and ride away”

Pecos: “Pecos Promenade,” Tanya Tucker

Key lyrics: “Lead off with the Cotton-Eyed Joe / Buckin’ winged, and heel and toe / Hold me close for the Pecos Promenade / Big sign hangin’ by the door / Sawdust on an old dance floor / Tip your hat for the Pecos Promenade”

Port Arthur: “Port Arthur Waltz,” Harry Choates

Key lyrics: “He, mignonne / I know I’m leaving Port Arthur, jolie fille, chérie / Oh, chère, mais, moi j’connais, j’mérite pas ça”

San Angelo: “San Angelo,” Marty Robbins

Key lyrics: “North of the border of Old Mexico / I rode one day to the cowtown of San Angelo / A hot sun was glowing, a hot breeze was blowing / Still not as warm as the lips that I waited to kiss”

San Antonio: “New San Antonio Rose,” Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys

Key lyrics: “Deep within my heart lies a melody / A song of old San Antone / Where in dreams I live with a memory / Beneath the stars all alone / It was there I found beside the Alamo / Enchantment strange as the blue up above / A moonlit pass that only she would know / Still hears my broken song of love”

San Benito: “The Valley,” Charley Crockett

Key lyrics: “I’m from San Benito, Texas / Down a dirty dusty road / There was sugarcane and cotton / How I used to watch it grow”

Santa Fe: “Santa Fe,” Augie Meyers

Key lyrics: “Headin’ on down to Santa Fe / Seem like I have / Lost my way / There was something I did not see / But, oh Lord she had a hold on me”

Selma: “Velma from Selma,” Augie Meyers

Key lyrics: “Velma from Selma / Won’t you please tell me what to do / You wanna be my lover / We got some ground to cover / ‘Cause I sure don’t wanna be no enchilada”

South Padre: “Somewhere Between Texas and Mexico,” Pat Green

Key lyrics: “South Padre Island to the Brownsville Bay / My heart is healing with each breaking way / But I got some real friends and they’re ready to go / Somewhere between Texas and Mexico / Somewhere between Texas and Mexico”

Sweetwater: “Sweetwater, Texas,” The Charlie Daniels Band

Key lyrics: “And if the good Lord see the way / To let me live one more day / I’m so tired of being alone / Gonna ride a white horse over Durango Mountain / And make Sweetwater Texas my home”

Terlingua: “Terlingua Sky,” Gary P. Nunn

Key lyrics: “The nights would pass so quickly / But there’s a feeling that still lingers on / As we pass around the tomb / That big yellow moon lights us up / ‘Neath the Terlingua Sky”

Texarkana: “Texarkana,” R.E.M.

Key lyrics: “40, 000 stars in the evening / Look at them fall from the sky / 40, 000 reasons for living / 40, 000 tears in your eyes”

Waco: “Wacko from Waco,” Billy Joe Shaver

Key lyrics: “I’m a wacko from Waco, ain’t no doubt about it / Shot a man there in the head but can’t talk much about it / He was trying to shoot me, but he took too long to aim / Anybody in my place, would have done the same / I don’t start fights, I finish fights, that’s the way I’ll always be / I’m a wacko from Waco, you best not mess with me”

Waxahachie: “Waxahachie,” Miranda Lambert, Jon Randall and Jack Ingram

Key lyrics: “Waxahachie, are you still on 35? / Are you still an all-night drive from Louisiana? / Waxahachie, I can be there by 4 a.m. / Looking for a long-lost friend / That’s what you’ve always been / Waxahachie / Ooh, Waxahachie”

Wichita: “Wichita Lineman,” Glen Campbell

Key lyrics: “I hear you singing in the wire / I can hear you through the whine / And the Wichita lineman / Is still on the line”

MORE MUSIC: Astrodome mixtape: 10 songs that namedrop the storied stadium

Help us build our Texas towns playlist. What did we miss? Don’t see a song about your Texas town? Share your recommendations in the comment section below.

About the Author

Briana zamora-nipper.

Briana Zamora-Nipper joined the KPRC 2 digital team in 2019. When she’s not hard at work in the KPRC 2 newsroom, you can find Bri drinking away her hard earned wages at JuiceLand, running around Hermann Park, listening to crime podcasts or ransacking the magazine stand at Barnes & Noble.

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Playlist for a Texas road trip

By Ben Olsen

Garage-rockin' Austin band White Denim have curated a playlist for a Texas road trip - a trippy, exclusively Texan selection of the perfect driving songs for the I-10 from Junction to El Paso

'This playlist is the companion piece for I-10 between Junction and El Paso,' says bassist Steve Terebecki of White Denim, Austin's prolific garage-rock band, of a selection that features exclusively Texan artists from the late 1960s to the mid 1980s. 'I chose "Dairymaid's Lament" by the Red Krayola to kick off the playlist because it reminds me of having no responsibilities. The psychedelic lyrics and upbeat guitar progression would be perfect for an adventure out to the unknown corners of Texas.'

White Denim have had plenty of time on the road recently touring their seventh album, Stiff , out this March. Their woozy, riff-heavy playlist (below) is tailormade for dreams of journeying through Texas's big skies and endless horizons. '"Pushin' Too Hard" by the Seeds is the perfect road song,' says Terebecki. 'Especially for the roads of West Texas where you can often travel at 85 or 90mph without getting a speeding ticket. The lyrics, "Well all I want is to just be free/Live my life the way I wanna be," embody the ethos of Presidio County.'

Listen to the Texas roadtrip playlist here White Denim's album 'Stiff' is out 25 March. Check out their new single 'Ha Ha Ha Ha (Yeah)' here:

1. 'Dairymaid's Lament' by The Red Krayola

2. 'pushin too hard' by the seeds, 3. 'elizabeth' by the bubble puppy, 4. 'starvation' by the golden dawn, 5. 'who would you like to be today' by endle st. cloud, 6. 'dier not a lover' by bloodrock, 7. 'baby please don't try to tell me' by stitch dave allen, 8. 'louisiana cock fight' by nitzinger, 9. 'i'm bad i'm nationwide' by zz top, 10. 'concubine' by butthole surfers, 11. 'el espectro' by scratch acid, 12. 'funk off' by big boys.

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20 Country Songs Texans Should Add to Their Road Trip Playlist

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Just earlier this morning I was chatting with a coworker about a trip she took recently and how much fun it was to just start driving with great music playing. Let’s be clear snacks always make a road trip better but as long as you have great music that is all you really need. So, when I saw that Ranker had created a list of the best Country Songs About Traveling I knew that their list could help us add a few songs to our road trip playlist.

Obviously, everyone is going to have their own taste in music so everyone’s playlist is going to be a little bit different but it’s always fun to find new songs to add to our favorites. Everyone knows that Country music is a big deal here in Texas so when we were putting together this list of songs to add to your road trip playlist you know that some of the classics had to be on this list. I’m sure many of these songs are already on your playlist, but if they aren’t on there yet, you should get them added immediately.

This List Isn’t Just for Road Trips

While this list will be perfect for any road trip you are planning, this list is also fantastic if you’re going to jump on a flight to your destination. Really, this playlist is good for anytime but will help you get ready for any travel plans you have coming up.

Let’s Look at the Best Country Playlist Songs

Feel free to hit the comment section if there are songs that you think should be added to this list:

George Strait - Amarillo by Morning

Willie Nelson - On the Road Again

John Denver - Take Me Home Country Roads

Johnny Cash - I've Been Everywhere

Roger Miller - King of the Road

Jerry Reed - East Bound and Down

Waylon Jennings - I'm a Ramblin' Man

Eddie Rabbitt - Drivin' My Life Away

Jo Dee Messina - Heads Carolina, Tails California

Brooks and Dunn - Red Dirt Road

Josh Abbott Band - My Texas

John Denver - Leaving on a Jet Plane

Old Crow Medicine Show - Wagon Wheel

Dierks Bentley - Drunk on a Plane

Zac Brown Band - Highway 20 Ride

LeAnn Rimes - One Way Ticket (Because I Can)

Jason Aldean - Dirt Road Anthem

Faith Hill - Let's Go to Vegas

Rodney Atkins - Take a Back Road

Rascal Flatts - Life Is a Highway

The Ultimate George Strait Texas Road Trip Playlist

When you think about touring parts of your favorite state (Texas, duh!) your memories often lean toward laughter, great food, quirky moments, and, last but not least, music. Memories tied to music can be some of the more powerful, invoking thoughts of great times, emotions, and magic moments all had to the soundtrack of your favorite music. That being said, if you want to plan the ultimate Texas road trip playlist, you need to have the ultimate Texas troubadour as your lead singer. Here is the ultimate George Strait Texas Road Trip playlist to get you into the groove!

1. Brothers of the Highway

This Ultimate George Strait Texas Road Trip Playlist is Hot Right Now

Photo: Facebook/Wrangler

Released on the “Troubadour” album in 2008, “Brothers of the Highway” is a completely upbeat driving song focused on those who tour the highways behind the wheel of a big rig. How this could not be on the ultimate George Strait Texas road trip playlist is beyond us!

2. Cowboys Like Us

Photo: Wikimedia Commons

Starting out with the lyrics, “I take off time to time with those crazy friends of mine. Head out on steel horses with wheels and we ride. We burn up that road…” the song “Cowboys Like Us” was made for a Texas road trip. Released on the “Honkytonkville” album in 2003, you need to add this to your ultimate George Strait playlist for jamming-on down the highway.

3. Amarillo by Morning

“Amarillo by Morning” was one of the first songs that secured George Strait a place in our hearts. Released on his “Strait From the Heart” album in the early ‘80s, it began an almost five-decade run of career hits now. If you don’t know the lyrics or the tune as a Texan, we’d have to question your true ardor for the man. Truly, this should be on your ultimate Texas road trip playlist. It speaks of a rodeo man making his treks for the very thing that he loves, and that’s exactly what you’re setting out to do when you plan to tour the Lone Star State.

4. The Seashores of Old Mexico

Photo: Facebook/George Strait

Released as the final single from his 2005 album entitled “Somewhere Down in Texas,” the song “The Seashores of Old Mexico” actually describes the escape of a young man running from the law. Leaving Texas isn’t something we’d generally promote, but due to the fact that George Strait is singing about it, and that it’s from an album that bears the name of the great state of Texas, we can overlook it in this case. This is just simply a fantastic song. It speaks of getting away and leaving everything behind, which is often synonymous with road trips.

5. The Cowboy Rides Away

Photo: Facebook/Morning Hangover

Released as the second single from his ’85 album “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind,” the song “The Cowboy Rides Away” would make a great addition to the ultimate George Strait Texas road trip playlist. Using it to wrap up his wildly popular final touring program, his fans embraced everything about the song, his career, and the experience of having him to cheer for as a Texas artist. Including this on your road trip playlist can either speak to your good taste, your style of music, or simply your desire to have nothing but the best on your tour of Texas!

We are your resource for Hill Country travel, things to do, places to eat, places to stay, tourism, events, lodging, and we feature Texas Hill Country info of all manners. Our Texas Hill Country Facebook page is growing by over 1,000 fans per day! We also run the premiere real-estate site in the hill country at HillCountryRealestate.com . We are born and bred in The Hill Country, and we welcome you to our family. Join the discussion on our new social platform Texjas.com !

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The 6 most spectacular road trips in Texas

Aug 28, 2023 • 8 min read

Texas is the perfect state for a road trip filled with BBQ breaks © monkeybusinessimages / Getty Images

Texas is big – very big. But Austin, Dallas, San Antonio and El Paso are easy-to-reach launchpads for scenic road trips across the state. Just be ready for some lonely roads, particularly in West Texas.

These are six of our favorite road trips in the Lone Star State , from the kitschy charms of Route 66 in the Panhandle Plains to the windswept beaches of the Gulf Coast. Top tip? Brake for dance halls and BBQ joints – wherever you are.

1. Hill Country

Best scenic road trip Austin–San Antonio; 200 miles

The Hill Country is one of the prettiest regions in Texas, especially in spring when wildflowers bloom along the roadside. In Austin , soak up the live music and food truck scene – and watch the bats swoop out from beneath the South Congress Bridge – before heading west to Dripping Springs. Dubbed the Gateway to the Hill Country, this welcoming small town is home to Jester King Brewery , Treaty Oak Distilling and Hamilton Pool Preserve . Wine country begins here too.

Swing north to the Lyndon B Johnson National Historic Park , which spotlights the 36th president’s local roots across two historic towns: Johnson City and Stonewall. Continue north to hike up the 425ft granite dome – part of an enormous underground batholith – at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area then dip south to explore antique shops and museums in German-settled Fredericksburg. After walking the caverns in Boerne, conclude in San Antonio , where The Alamo and the gorgeous River Walk anchor downtown.

Planning tip: Get your Texas playlist ready with these tunes: New San Antonio Rose by Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys; Luckenbach, Texas by Waylon Jennings; On the Road Again by Willie Nelson; Amarillo by Morning by George Strait; What I Like about Texas by Jerry Jeff Walker & Gary P Nunn; Miles and Miles of Texas by Asleep at the Wheel; El Paso by Marty Robbins; Waltz Across Texas by Ernest Tubbs; Corpus Christi Bay by Robert Earl Keen; God Blessed Texas by Little Texas.

Human observing Milky way at Balanced Rock, Big Bend National park, Texas

2. Big Bend Loop

Best off-the-beaten-path road trip El Paso–El Paso; 900 miles

The Big Bend region of West Texas isn’t the middle of nowhere, but it might be next door. Murals pack a visual punch in El Paso , a scrappy starting point for exploring West Texas . A drive east through the high desert leads to remote Guadalupe Mountains National Park , home of the highest peak in Texas. Cool off in the spring-fed pool at Balmorhea State Park then settle in for world-class stargazing at the McDonald Observatory in tiny Fort Davis.

A battered school desk attracts intrepid hikers to the top of Hancock Hill in Alpine, which qualifies as a metropolis around here. Swing through Marathon before driving into the heart of Big Bend National Park . Stargazing, hiking in the Chisos Mountains, and admiring Santa Elena Canyon are just a few of the highlights here.

The Rio Grande feels like your sidekick while driving scenic FM 170 west through Big Bend Ranch State Park . With minimalist art, mysterious lights, and tasty Marfalafel on offer, the city of Marfa is the right kind of weird. And just as you think you’re driving back into normal on your return to El Paso, Prada Marfa rises up from the desert to say, “Not quite yet.”

3. Houston & the Gulf Coast

Best road trip for beaches Houston–South Padre Island; 600 miles

A drive along the Gulf Coast delivers birdwatching, kayaking, coastal conviviality and oh-so-many beaches. Immerse yourself in Houston's culture and cuisine, then pull over for Space Center Houston – where the tram passes the Apollo Mission Control Center – on your drive to the coast. The first stop on the Gulf is Galveston , a barrier island where sunny beaches and old-school Southern charm reign supreme. Whooping cranes winter at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge while galleries and restaurants shine in pedestrian-friendly Rockport.

Kick back in winsome Port Aransas, a small beach town with a big personality. Escape the crowds at Padre Island National Seashore , where you can kayak and windsurf and also drive on the beach. Explore museums and the aquarium in Corpus Christi , then drive south for an end-of-trip embrace of festive beach living on South Padre Island. Although it might be a touch too festive during spring break.

Local tip: Let the Texas landscape surprise you. No less than 35 ecoregions exist here. Contrary to stereotypes, white-sand beaches, soaring pine forests and snowcapped mountains are all part of the picture. Indigenous birds, mammals and alligators outnumber the head of cattle here. All told, the natural attractions are a major reason to visit Texas.

Colorful graffitied cars half buried in the ground at Cadillac Ranch, Amarillo

4. Route 66 & the Texas Panhandle Loop

Best road trip for American kitsch Amarillo–Amarillo; 450 miles

This windswept drive tackles the Mother Road and the Panhandle Plains with breezy, and we mean breezy, aplomb. About halfway between Chicago and Los Angeles on the old Route 66, Amarillo is a cattle town with a kitschy side – just step inside the neon-fronted Big Texan Steak Ranch . As numerous billboards attest, diners can earn a free 72oz steak – if they can eat it in an hour!

On your drive east on Route 66, pull over for the Leaning Water Tower and the World's Tallest Cross in Groom, the barbed wire museum in McLean and the U-Drop Inn in Shamrock – it was the model for Ramone’s Body Shop in the Pixar movie Cars .

Drop south across the plains to explore the magnificent Palo Duro Canyon , the second-largest canyon in the US behind the Grand Canyon. Lubbock is home to the Buddy Holly Center , which honors the rockabilly legend, and the fantastic Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum . Drive north to complete the loop at Cadillac Ranch , where 10 Cadillacs are buried hood-first on the windy plains on the western outskirts of Amarillo. Route 66 runs for 177 miles across Texas, often overlapping with I-40.

5. Fort Worth, Dallas & Northeast Texas

Best road trip for quintessential Texas Fort Worth–Jefferson; 250 miles

Stockyards, museums, oil derricks and outdoor adventure. This road trip is all Texas. Explore the historic stockyards in Fort Worth , a stopover for cattle drives on the Chisholm Trail, then dive into art and history in Dallas , a posh oil industry hub. The city is also home to the Sixth Floor Museum , which delves into the assassination of JFK here in 1963.

From Dallas, drive east through Northeast Texas , a region known as the Piney Woods due to its extensive pine forests. Roses and spring azaleas bring manicured charm to Tyler while oil wells bring money to mind in Kilgore. The beauty gets wild – and slightly eerie – among the moss-covered cypress trees in swampy Caddo Lake , which branches off into bayous and tributaries ready-made for adventurous paddlers. Unwind in charismatic Jefferson, a wild riverboat town in the 1800s now known for its Greek-revival homes, brick streets, and gentile Southern spirit.

Local tip: Stretch your legs in Dallas. The major art and history sights are concentrated blissfully close together, something you'll appreciate given the overall sprawl. Downtown museums and Arts District attractions nearby are in areas easily traversed either by walking or taking the McKinney Ave trolley.

A worker with firewood for the never-ending barbecue fire at Smitty's Market in Lockhart, Texas

6. Texas BBQ and Dance Halls

Best road trip for a rollicking fun time Austin–Gruene; 100 miles, 350 miles if you take the detour

Two things Texas does extremely well? BBQ and dance halls. This road trip may not be the most scenic or the most direct, but it is a blast. Bring a portable chair and rest your legs while waiting in the line at Franklin BBQ in Austin – you’re gonna need ‘em at full strength later with all the two-stepping going on at the legendary Broken Spoke. Head west to the Hill Country for dancing at Mercer Dance Hall in Driftwood then dig in the next day at Salt Lick , where the indecisive should go for the family-style all-you-can-eat platter.

Swing southeast for a BBQ quadruple-threat in Lockhart. Designated the BBQ capital of Texas by the state legislature, it’s home to Black’s Barbecue , Kreuz Market (don’t ask for sauce or a fork), Chisholm Trail Bar-B-Q and Smitty’s Market . When your belly is full, it's just a 45-minute drive southwest to the worn wooden dance floor at Gruene Hall . Open since 1878, it’s the oldest continually operating dance hall in Texas. Music nightly. Beer cold. Happiness assured.

Detour: It’s a 75-mile haul northwest from Driftwood to Llano for brisket at Louie Mueller, which opened in 1949, and at Cooper’s Old Time Pit BBQ, which opened in 1963. But hey, they’re Texas classics and worth a trip if you’re serious about your BBQ. Stop by Enchanted Rock State Natural Area on your drive south to tiny Luckenbach. Made famous by Willie and Waylon’s catchy tune, Luckenbach is home to another beloved dance hall. It’s also a laid-back place to sip a beer under the oak trees on a lazy afternoon.

This article was first published November 2020 and updated August 2023

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The Perfect 10 Day Texas Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)

Last Updated: February 4, 2024

Plan the ultimate Texas road trip itinerary that includes national parks, hiking trails, and must-see cities around the Lone Star State.

Thinking about making your way south to visit Texas ? This epic 10-day Texas road trip shows you how you can experience the best that the Lone Star State has to offer.

The bulk of this 10-day itinerary is focused on central Texas where major highways form a meticulous triangle. By following this route you can experience major cities and state capitols, all the while learning just why everything is bigger in Texas!

Beginning in Dallas, you’ll venture even further by exploring Texas’ underrate nature and a past that continues to influence the wider country.

In reality, Texas is a massive state. You’d need much longer than 10 days to really see the entire state on an epic Texas road trip. So if you do have more time to spare, you can always add to this itinerary through many of the posts that we link to along the way.

But for the purpose of this Texas road trip itinerary, we’ll be focusing on the easily accessible highlights of Central Texas.

Find more ideas with our ultimate list of the best things to do in Texas !

Table of Contents

Where To Stay In Dallas + Fort Worth

Day 2 alternative – amarillo day trip from dallas, where to stay in austin, along the way to austin from dallas – waco, day 4 alternative – texas hill country, where to stay in san antonio, where to stay in corpus christi, where to stay in houston, where to stay in galveston, day 10 – return to dallas/houston, the wrap up, the perfect texas road trip itinerary.

Texas can be explored in a number of ways. From taking domestic flights to guided tours, this huge state has so much to offer. But a Texas road trip is a quintessential way to experience the Lone Star State!

During these 10 days, you’ll see charming small towns, magnificent cities, and natural beauty. This road trip in Texas is the perfect introduction to the second-largest state in the continental US!

The best way to get around is to rent a car and explore on your own! We recommend Rental Cars , which has the largest range of vehicles for the best value on the market.

Day 1 & 2 – Dallas + Fort Worth

Day 1 of your Texas road trip begins in Dallas . At the top of a trio of highways that form a triangle through the heart of Texas, you’re well-placed to begin a road trip of a lifetime.

Here in Dallas, you’ll find a blend of art, history, nature, and sport. Add on a second day in Fort Worth, and you can explore the history of cattle ranches before dancing the night away at Billy Bob’s Texas.

Dallas Arts District

Encompassing the largest arts district in the nation, exploring the Dallas Arts District is the best way to start your journey through Triple D . Here, you’ll discover 20 blocks of galleries and museums, including the Dallas Museum of Art.

This thorough 3-hour tour of Dallas, not only takes you through the district but to the Klyde Warren Park and Memorial Plaza.

Sixth Floor Museum

In 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald entered the Texas School Book Depository and changed American history. Now the Sixth Floor Museum, learn all about this tragic event, including the hours before along with the emotional aftermath.

Address: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202
Hours: 10 am-5 pm (Wed-Sun)
Price: $18

Klyde Warren Park

Escape the bustle of downtown Dallas with a relaxing picnic at Klyde Warren Park. Not far from the Arts District, the park features a thriving food truck scene and regular events including movie nights.

Address: 2012 Woodall Rodgers Fwy, Dallas, TX 75201

Perot Museum of Nature & Science

A highlight of the Dallas Arts District, the Perot Museum of Nature & Science is a must-see. Featuring almost a dozen halls spread over five floors, you can dive into the topics of engineering, evolution, and earth.

Address: 2201 N Field St, Dallas, TX 75201
Hours: 10 am-5 pm (Mon, Wed-Sat) 11 am-5 pm (Sun)
Price: $20

African American Museum

Set in Fair Park, the African American Museum is believed to be the first of its kind. Home to a thorough collection of artifacts, documents, and art, it’s an incredible way to explore the history and culture of African Americans.

Address: 3536 Grand Ave, Fair Park, Dallas, TX 75210
Hours: 11 am-5 pm (Tue-Fri) 10 am-5 pm (Sat)
Price: Free

Want to extend to 3 days in Dallas? Check out our Dallas Itinerary !

AT&T Stadium

On day 2 of your Texas road trip, it’s time to explore neighboring Fort Worth. Along the way, you’ll pass Arlington, home to the Dallas Cowboys and AT&T Stadium.

This spectacular stadium can seat 80,000 fans and houses what was once a record-breaking jumbotron. Go watch the Cowboys or sign up for a stadium tour.

Leave the car at home with this tour of AT&T Stadium that includes transportation.

Address: 1 AT&T Way, Arlington, TX 76011

Sundance Square

Spanning 35 blocks, Sundance Square represents the beating heart of Fort Worth. Old brick roads guide you by eye-catching architecture, including the historic Tarrant County Courthouse. Enjoy Texan cuisine, scratch your shopping itch, and stick around for the boisterous nightlife.

Kimbell Art Museum

Known as much for its architecture as its art, the Kimbell Art Museum quickly captures your imagination. Featuring art and antiquities from the Middle Ages to the 20th century, the galley covers a range of eras and styles with works from the likes of Picasso and Monet.

Address: 3333 Camp Bowie Blvd, Fort Worth, TX 76107
Hours: 10 am-5 pm (Tue-Thur, Sat) 12 pm-8 pm (Fri & Sun), closed Monday

Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District

The Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District is a unique look into Texas’ connection to ranching and cowboys. Every day on Exchange Avenue, modern-day cowboys and cowgirls guide longhorns down the historic street. You can learn more about why at the Livestock Exchange.

Billy Bob’s Texas

Come sundown, the Stockyards is one of the best places for nightlife in Texas. Here, you’ll find Billy Bob’s Texas where you can go boot scootin’ crazy and indulge in some classic honky tonk!

Address: 2520 Rodeo Plaza, Fort Worth, TX 76164

You can combine your Dallas experience with a day at Fort Worth on this guided tour .

At Hotel Crescent Court , you’ll feel right at home in your opulent setting before opening the ornate French doors for your own private balcony.

With cable TV, an on-site pool and a restaurant, Hampton Inn & Suites is a great place to recuperate as you explore downtown Dallas.

Close to nightlife and local culture, SOVA puts you in the heart of the action at a budget-friendly price.

Are you excited to explore Dallas and Fort Worth in greater depth? Read up on the complete list of things to do in Dallas right here.

This drive takes 5.5 hours from downtown Dallas.

Rather than spending a day in Fort Worth, start your day bright and early to make your way to Amarillo. As you drive into the more remote northwestern Texas, you’ll begin to see a different set of micro-cultures to go along with an increase in Stetsons, wild ponies, and dusty side roads.

Amarillo is a unique, quirky town that boasts a stop along historic Route 66 on top of being the gateway to Texas’ western frontier. It’s a great, historical stop on your Texas road trip!

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch is one of the most interesting roadside attractions in Texas. Right off I-40, the “ranch” features the frontends of 10 Cadillacs buried in the Texan dirt. Decorated with a kaleidoscopic use of spray paint, it’s one of those things you wouldn’t see anywhere but Amarillo.

Address: 13651 I-40 Frontage Rd, Amarillo, TX 79124

Sixth Street Historic District

Home to 13 blocks of Route 66 fame, the Sixth Street Historic District dates back to the 1920s. The collection of old-time commercial buildings recalls the heyday of Amarillo and features Art Deco, Art Moderne, and Spanish Revival architecture.

American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum

A classic West Texas experience, the American Quarter Horse Hall of Fame & Museum explores the history of the world’s most popular horse breed. Hands-on exhibits and events take you back in time to the height of cattle herding.

Address: 2601 E Interstate Dr, Amarillo, TX 79104
Hours: 10 am – 4 pm, Closed Sundays and Mondays

Day 3 & 4 – Austin

This drive takes 3 hours from downtown Dallas

Whether you’ve taken a day trip to Amarillo or decided to just stay in Dallas, next you’ll be heading south to Austin along I-35. We recommend stopping in Waco on the way, which we’ll provide more details about shortly.

Austin is a beautiful mix of arts, culture, and color mixed in with all the things you’ve come to know and love about Texas. Unique neighborhoods abound in Austin. Add on ample outdoor activities, it’s best to give yourself at least two nights to explore what Austin has to offer.

One way to split your 48 hours up is by separating the attractions on either side of the surging Colorado River.

Read Next: Find out what other destinations made our list of the best places to visit in Texas !

Downtown Austin

Towering skyscrapers, museums, street art, and mouthwatering Tex-Mex lies in wait in downtown Austin. Spend your morning at the Museum of Weird or the Mexic-Arte Museum before enjoying some takeout food along the nearby waterfront.

See the best of downtown, along with South Congress on this e-bike tour .

Texas State Capitol

Nearby is the Texas State Capitol looming proudly over the rest of the city. The 19th-century building is one of the tallest government buildings in the country, with a beautiful dome and spire reaching over 300 feet. Join a guided tour to learn more about its history and stunning architecture.

Address: 1100 Congress Ave
Hours: 7 am – 8 pm (opens at 9 am on weekends)

University of Texas

Home to the iconic Texas Longhorns, the University of Texas is the place to be in the fall. But there’s more to this campus than just football. Explore to find the captivating Blanton Museum of Art, along with the Natural Science Center and the Memorial Museum.

Sunset at Congress Avenue Bridge

There’s no better place to be in Austin at sunset than the Congress Avenue Bridge. Boasting the largest urban bat colony in the world, all 1.5 million of them depart once the sun touches the horizon.

Such is the heady number, it can take 45 minutes to finish all the while the sky burns bright amber.

Watch the event from the Colorado River on a kayak tour .

The Dirty Sixth

To burn the midnight oil in Austin head to the Dirty Sixth. This rowdy nightlife strip harbors bustling music venues, pumping clubs, and dim-lit bars, perfect for enjoying a drink and reflecting on the road trip thus far.

Rainey Street Historic District

The alternative to the Dirty Sixth is Rainey Street Historic District. The revitalized old district is more laid back than Sixth Street with high-end eateries, vibrant bars, and charming, old-school pubs.

Lady Bird Lake

Nurse your hangover with a trip to Lady Bird Lake. When in Austin, you’re never far from nature, and you’ll find beautiful walking and biking trails from which to explore. Stop at Zilker Park for downtown views or paddle out on the lake with your traveling crew.

South Congress

Now that you’re back to normal, head to South Congress the hotbed of the Keep Austin Weird movement. Filled with kitschy shops, street art, and teeming with food trucks, it’s the place to stay weird, enjoy sprawling murals, and feast on delightful cuisine.

The Cathedral of Junk

Speaking of weird, the Cathedral of Junk finishes in the first place. The gallery of junk is spread through a simple backyard featuring a conglomerate of random items from engines to spooky mannequins.

Travelers must call ahead before visiting.

Address: 4422 Lareina Dr, Austin, TX 78745
Cost: Donation based

McKinney Falls State Park

If you haven’t quenched your thirst for nature yet on this Texas road trip, head to McKinney Falls State Park. Venture along the Onion Creek Hike to see both the lower and upper falls. While only 10 miles from Austin, the change of pace and color along with the fresh air will have you ready to tackle the rest of this road trip.

Five-star opulence awaits at Hotel Saint Cecilia where you’ll enjoy, a la carte breakfast, an on-site pool, and free bike hire.

On Sixth Street, East Austin Hotel , is a 3-star hotel with cable TV, on-site restaurants, and close to the University of Texas.

In central, downtown Austin, the Firehouse Hostel provides a fun, atmosphere with modern amenities and close to nightlife.

Check out our post to learn more about the best things to do in Austin .

As you make your way from Dallas to Austin, get off Highway 35 for a quick stop in Waco. Home to the beautiful campus of Baylor University, you’ll find mouthwatering cuisine at local markets and plenty of kitschy shops to add to your road trip shopping bag.

Magnolia Market at the Silos

With your day now fully underway, replenish your energy stocks at Magnolia Market at the Silos. This small district features a handful of food trucks, along with the famous Silos Baking Co., to go along with the collection of live events, boutique stores, and a farmers’ market.

Address: 601 Webster Ave, Waco, TX 76706
Hours: 9 am – 6 pm (closed Sun)

Dr. Pepper Museum

America’s oldest major soda brand was founded right here in Waco. This museum features three floors packed with exhibits that take you along Dr. Pepper’s timeline. The historic bottling plant even includes a Liquid Lab where you can attempt to make your own soda.

Address: 300 S 5th St, Waco, TX 76701
Hours: 10 am – 5:30 pm (Mon to Sat) 12 pm – 5:30 pm Sun

Wooly Mammoth National Monument

Spanning five acres along the Bosque River, the Wooly Mammoth National Monument commemorates the discovery of a collection of Columbian mammoths found in Waco. The only discovery of its kind in the states, the monument provides a glimpse into the lives of the mammoths and the epic 3-decade excavation effort.

Address: 6220 Steinbeck Bend Dr, Waco, TX 76708
Hours: 9 am – 5 pm
Price: Free. Guided tours are $6

Read next: The Ultimate 3 Days In Austin, Texas Itinerary

A guided tour of Austin may leave you feeling satisfied with your experience in the state capitol. If that’s the case, pack your car with all your day trip necessities and head to the beautiful Texas Hill Country.

Featuring rolling hills, charming small towns, state parks, and elegant vineyards, it’s a lovely complement to Austin.

Pedernales Falls State Park

On route from Austin to the Texas Hill Country, stop off at Pedernales Falls State Park and soak up some natural beauty. One of the best things to do here is go for a swim in Hamilton Pool Preserve . This natural swimming hole is set in a dramatic canyon complete with limestone cliffs and a huge waterfall.

Other than Hamilton Pool, Pedernales Falls State Park has some awesome mountain biking and hiking trails.

Frederiksburg

There are a number of cozy German towns in the Texas Hill Country. The best? Frederiksburg. With eye-catching European architecture, Germanic cuisine, art galleries, and cute cafes, it’s a small town not to be missed.

Visit the Wineries

On this guided tour departing from Austin, venture into the countryside stopping at three award-winning wineries. Sample wines and local treats before exploring the beautiful, winding roads in a luxury van. This is a must for wine lovers going on Texas road trips!

Day 5 – San Antonio

This drive takes 1 hour and 20 minutes from downtown Austin.

After your visit to the Texas Hill Country, head south to San Antonio . Home to Spanish colonial missions and a thriving riverfront community, San Antonio thrives on surprising its visitors. This charming city is really a must-see on any road trip in Texas!

After a drive through the Texas Hill Country from Austin, be prepared to experience a unique city that balances prominent a Spanish past, with hints of the Wild West and modern Texan culture.

If you have time, extend your trip and spend 3 days in San Antonio !

San Antonio Missions

A National Historic Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the San Antonio Missions is a veritable gem that’s vital to America’s story. Covering five missions including the famous Alamo (San Antonio de Valero), you can learn all about the Spanish influence in this region.

The San Antonio Riverwalk

The San Antonio River Walk is the heart of local culture and hospitality. Home to river parades, the edges of the San Antonio River are lined with refined restaurants and chic bars.

This nighttime tour takes you on a River Walk Cruise with a visit to the Tower of the Americas.

Historic Market Square

Covering three blocks, the Historic Market Square is a great way to put on your tourist hat and shop, eat and drink. The square also boasts the largest Mexican market, known as El Mercado, in the States. Afterward, load up on fresh goods at the Farmer’s Market Plaza.

Natural Bridge Caverns

The Natural Bridge Caverns were discovered in the 1960s and are now the largest of their kind in the US. This guided experience allows you to skip the line and explore the vast cave network laden with stalactites and stalagmites.

Book your visit to the Natural Bridge Caverns on Get Your Guide !

Ranger Creek Brewing

It’s officially day 5 and halfway through your Texas road trip. Celebrate, reflect, and look forward to future adventures at Ranger Creek Brewing. Featuring more than just microbrews, you can enjoy small-batch craft whiskey before joining a guided tour.

Address: 4834 Whirlwind Dr, San Antonio, TX
Hours: Monday – Thursday 10 am – 4 pm, Friday and Saturday 12 pm – 9 pm
Cost: Tours cost $15 and run every Saturday at 1 pm and 3 pm

Next to the River Walk, Hotel Emma offers guests a sun terrace with excellent views, a fitness center, and a pool, plus an on-site bar.

Wake up with a complimentary breakfast and wake up with a swim at Drury Plaza , before exploring San Antonio.

WaterWalk offers free daily breakfast, BBQ facilities, a fitness center, and a swimming pool all without hurting the wallet.

Day 6 & 7 – Corpus Christi

This drive takes 2 hours from downtown San Antonio.

After departing San Antonio on your Texas road trip, make your way south to Corpus Christi. Two days here may seem like a lot, but it’s the perfect spot to enjoy the captivating nature that South Texas has to offer.

Mustang Island

30 miles south of Corpus Christi is an 18-mile barrier island that is a boon for animal lovers and beach bums. Grab the towel and head to the wild sands of this protected area. Go for a swim in the Gulf, kayak along the rugged shorelines, and keep an eye out for the island’s 400 unique bird species.

Padre Island National Seashore

Established in 1962, the Padre Island National Seashore is the largest of its kind on earth. With 70 miles of untouched nature, explore a major bird migration spot and sea turtles or simply enjoy the views from the majestic coast.

South Padre Island

Contrasting to the previous day’s national seashore, the southern version offers a balance of humanity and natural wonders.

The beaches are delightful and there are family-friendly theme parks. However, you can’t beat a horse ride on the beach or a sunset yacht charter deep into the Gulf.

The Rio Grande

Staying in Corpus Christi provides you with an interesting opportunity to see the Rio Grande flow into the Gulf of Mexico. Visit the Las Palomas Wildlife area and be able to take a peak into the gulf coast of Mexico while enjoying one of the most southern points in mainland USA.

The Oceanside Retreat comes with beach views from your balcony, full kitchens, and walking distance to the shoreline.

Tru by Hilton provides upscale rooms with a swimming pool and fitness center all within a short drive of Mustang and North Padre Island.

The simple Knights Inn comes with beach views, cable TV, an outdoor pool, and BBQ facilities.

Day 8 – Houston

Next on your road trip in Texas, head up towards East Texas and spend some time in Houston . This diverse city has plenty of Texas history and nature to check out, plus there are a lot of great road trips to take from Houston !

Space Center Houston

One of the most popular tourist attractions in Texas, the Space Center Houston lives up to the hype. Dive into the history of space travel, visit Mission Control, and touch a rock that was returned from the moon! Finish up with exploring the thrilling Rocket Park.

Address: 2101 E NASA Pkwy, Houston, TX 77058
Hours: 10 am-5 pm (Mon-Fri) 10 am-6 pm (Sat-Sun)
Price: $29.95

The Museum District

Home to 18 museums, (11 of which are free), Houston’s Museum District is as fascinating as it is budget-friendly. Highlights include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Menil Collection, and the Museum of Natural Science.

Buffalo Bayou Park

Enjoy some sunshine, a leisurely walk, and some cheese and crackers in Buffalo Bayou Park. This urban escape features a history water reservoir-turned-art-exhibit, plus old-time homes, beautiful, landscaped gardens, and some fun biking trails.

Find more things to do on this 3 Days In Houston Itinerary !

The La Colombe d’Or promises a memorable experience thanks to its Victorian decor, outdoor pool, and proximity to central Houston.

The Cambria provides road trippers with a central location and upscale amenities at a reasonable price.

At Wanderstay budget travelers will have a modern, themed hostel with spacious communal and dining areas.

Day 9 – Galveston

From Houston, head further into East Texas with a visit to the coastal city of Galveston . Here are the top things to do when you get there!

Stewart Beach

Not far from the Historic Pleasure Pier, Stewart Beach is the spot to get some sun, go for a swim, and enjoy your last full day. Snack stands will keep your thirst quenched and your hunger at bay, and be sure to rent an umbrella for some handy shade.

The historic Strand in Galveston is lined with elegant 19th-century architecture and where tales of the past ring along the walking path. Spread along five blocks, you’ll find the Opera House from 1894 and dozens of fun shops within ancient walls.

Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier

The Galveston Island Historic Pleasure Pier is Texas’ answer to the one in Santa Monica. Soaring out into the Gulf, enjoy the 15-plus rides, family-fun arcades, and the token fair hot dog.

At the George Manor , you’ll be staying in a historic building with included breakfast and an on-site restaurant while being within walking distance of the beach.

On the Galveston Seawall, enjoy ocean views, on-site bar, and fitness center at Clarion Pointe .

By East Beach, Wingate by Wyndham , provides an excellent location, cable TV, and complimentary breakfast at low cost.

From Galveston, it’s time for the last leg of your epic Texas road trip. To complete the Texas “triangle” drive north for 4.5 hours along I-45. For a shorter trip, drop your rental car off in Houston, which is under an hour away.

Well, there you have it folks, the perfect Texas road trip. Over ten days, you’ll hit up some of the state’s best cities, learn about important history and indulge in some local culture. But rest assured, there’s plenty of time for fun, whether that be in Fort Worth, Austin, or Galveston.

Such is the size of Texas, there are still some notable absentees. A larger West Texas road trip would help you explore Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park. But iconic places like Big Bend and the surrounding national parks would require much more time.

But no matter how much time you spend in Texas, you’re sure to have a blast!

DISCLAIMER: Some of the links in this article are affiliate links, which means if you book accommodation, tours or buy a product, we will receive a small commission at no extra cost to you. These commissions help us keep creating more free travel content to help people plan their holidays and adventures. We only recommend the best accommodations, tours and products that ourselves or our fantastic editorial team have personally experienced, and regularly review these. Thanks for your support, kind friend!

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100+ Best Road Trip songs (to sing along with as you drive!)

No Road Trip is complete with an EPIC playlist. Here are 150 best road trip songs for your travels, motorhome adventures, road trip- and just singing along in the car. Enjoy! #roadtrip #playlist #songs #tunes #motorhome #travel #adventure

Looking for good road trip songs? Honestly, the right driving songs in the right playlist can make or break a road trip! Here are 100+ best road trip songs to sing along with as you drive!

And don’t forget to download your FREE road trip planner below , to help you plan your road trip.

*We work hard to make this the best motorhome travel blog and road trip website possible, full of helpful content for you. The website is supported by our readers, so if you buy through links on this site we may earn a commission- at no extra cost to you. All opinions remain our own .

If you find this post useful, you can also treat us to a coffee – we promise to enjoy it while creating more useful content like this- we might even indulge in a biscuit (or two!)

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Best Road Trip Songs

Planning a road trip or long drive is tough. There are a million things to think about. And one of the things often overlooked is a road trip playlist!

Whether you’re travelling by car, RV, camper or bike, this list of the 100 best road trip driving songs is guaranteed to make the miles fly past!

We’ve got a mix of great driving songs to sing along too: songs for girly summer road trips, classic rock, all-American, a bit of country and some modern 2020 tunes- all designed to create the PERFECT playlist for your journey. And with over 100 road trip songs to choose from, you’re guaranteed to find something for everyone to sing along with on the road.

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How to create a great road trip playlist with sing-along songs!

The window wound down, the stereo cranked up and some awesome tunes you can sing along to; perfection, right? But if you’re anything like us, your phone/iPod is a random mix of all sorts of music- including a Christmas album or 7.

That’s why a road trip playlist is so important- you don’t have to worry if the next tune will be great, you already know it will be!

Make sure the songs are downloaded onto your phone/ ipod. Otherwise, you’re going to use up a lot of data and/ or run the risk of being in an area with bad signal and no music!
Like listening to things as you drive? Check out Audible – you can get podcasts, audiobooks and more- it’s a perfect way to pass the time on a long drive.

You might be able to get 3 MONTHS FREE music at Amazon. Click HERE to take advantage

I’ll be honest- there was some…. let’s call it “discussion”… over the best travel songs to include on this list. My husband prefers classic rock for driving songs. I like songs you can sing along with in the car and songs to drive fast too (NEVER above the speed limit though… right?!)

We compromised on creating a road trip playlist with song choices from all of us, so we hope there’s something in here for you!

So, let’s get to the best road trip songs.

(Update: This post started off as 100 of the best road trip songs… it’s growing as we add more in, so no idea how many are here now!! )

20 Rock Classics- the BEST Road trip Rock songs

Danger Zone – Kenny Loggins
Nutbush City Limits – Ike & Tina Turner
Dude Looks like a Lady – Aerosmith
American Pie – Don Mclean
Whole Lotta Rosie – AC/ DC
Don’t Stop Believing – Journey
Paradise City – Guns N’ Roses
All Night Long – Rainbow
Cats in the Cradle – Ugly Kid Joe
Here I Go Again – Whitesnake
Jump – Van Halen
We Built This City – Starship
Summer of ’69 – Bryan Adams
Hell ain’t a Bad Place to Be – AC/DC
The Boys are Back in Town – Thin Lizzy
Rio – Duran Duran
Saturday Night’s Alright for Fighting – Elton John
Who are You – The Who
Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac
Love Walked In – Thunder

Best Driving Songs- All-American road trip songs

Born in the USA – Bruce Springsteen
Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
Walk This Way – Aerosmith & Run DMC
My Life – Billy Joel
Living on a Prayer – Bon Jovi
Footloose – Kenny Loggins
One of these Nights – The Eagles
Born to be Wild – Steppenwolf
Nothing but a Good Time- Poison

Planning a road trip? You might find these posts useful:

How to plan a road trip
The BEST printable road trip planner (FREE!)
Most useful road trip apps
100 inspiring road trip quotes

25 Modern road trip songs to sing along with (2020 update)

Our favourite modern (ish!) driving songs, all of which are perfect to sing along to in the car and belt it out- especially in a traffic jam with people staring at you!! Add any (or all!) of these to your perfect summer road trip playlist.

Physical- Dua Lipa
Stupid Love – Lady Gaga
Dance Monkey – Tones & I (you know you love it…)
Take Me Back to London – Ed Sheeran
All the Good Girls go to Hell – Billie Eilish
What a Man Gotta Do – Jonas Brothers
Castle on the Hill – Ed Sheeran
Uptown Funk – Mark Robson & Bruno Mars
Rockstar – Nickelback
Looking for a Good Time – Lady Antebellum
It’s My Life – Bon Jovi
Take me to Church – Hozier
Hold Back the River – James Bay
Shut Up & Dance – Walk the Moon
Happy – Pharell Williams
The Pretender – Foo Fighters
Hall of Fame – The Script
Centuries – Fall Out Boy
Sex on Fire – Kings of Leon
The Kill – 30 Seconds to Mars
Mr Brightside – The Killers
My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark – Fall Out Boy
Don’t Threaten Me with a Good Time – Panic at the Disco
Knights of Cydonia – Muse
If I had you – Adam Lambert
All the Small Things – Blink 182

Best road trip songs to sing along with in a car or RV

The ultimate girl’s road trip playlist- perfect songs to sing along with in the car!

Ah- I LOVE girly road trips, especially in the summer. There’s nothing better than some sunshine, good friends and some GREAT songs on the stereo. Here are some of our favourite road trip songs for girls (although we don’t mind if you boys listen to them too! 😉 )

20 Modern road trip sing-along songs for girls

Rolling in the Deep – Adele
Waking Up in Vegas – Katy Perry
Trouble – Pink
Everytime We Touch – Cascada
According to You – Orianthi
Bang Bang – Jessie J, Ariana Grande & Nicki Menaj
Black Magic – Little Mix
Heartbeat Song – Kelly Clarkson
Sax – Fleur East
Can’t Be Tame d- Miley Cyrus
Fight Song – Rachel Platten
The Best Damn Thing – Avril Lavigne
Call Me Maybe – Carly Rae Jepsen
U and Ur Hand – Pink!
Part of Me – Katy Perry
Shake it Off – Taylor Swift
This is Me – Greatest Showman Soundtrack
Raise Your Glass – Pink
Living la Vida Loca – Ricky Martin
Baby one more time – Brittany Spears

20 Classic road trip songs for girls to sing along to in the car!

Walking on Sunshine – Katrina & the Waves
Bitch – Meredith Brooks
Everything I do, I do it for you – Bryan Adams
Holding Out for a Hero – Bonnie Tyler
Wake Me up before you Go-Go – Wham
It’s Raining Men – Weather Girls
Love Shack – B52s
I’m so Excited – Pointer Sisters
Dancing in the Moonlight – Toploader
9 to 5 – Dolly Parton
Uptown Girl – Billy Joel
Heaven is a Place on Earth – Belinda Carlisle
Man! I Feel like a woman – Shania Twain
Girls Just Wanna Have Fun – Cyndi Lauper
Poker Face – Lady Gaga
Burning Love – Wynonna (I much prefer this version- sorry Elvis!!)
Love My Life – Robbie Williams
Torn – Natalie Imbruglia
Proud Mary – Tina Turner
Summer Nights- Grease

14 Driving Songs with ‘road in the title’- perfect for a road trip playlist!

Hit the Road Jack – Ray Charles
Every Day is a Winding Road – Sheryl Crow
Take me Home, Country Roads – John Denver
The Long and Winding Road – The Beatles
Bright Side of the Road – Van Morrison
Long Road To Ruin – Foo Fighters
Road Trippin’ – Red Hot Chilli Peppers
Back on the Road Again – REO Speedwagon
Thunder Road – Bruce Springsteen
Road to Hell – Chris Rea
Road to Nowhere – Talking Heads
Old Town Road – Lil Nas X
Roadhouse Blues – The Doors
Road Less Traveled – Lauren Alaina

Best road trip songs to sing along with on a long drive

15 best songs about driving and cars

Some of the best songs about driving (and cars!) – all perfect for a road trip playlist!

Mustang Sally – The Commitments
Bat out of Hell – Meatloaf
I Drove all night – Roy Orbison
Rhythm Made Me Do It – Shania Twain
Drive By – Train
Greased Lightnin’ – Grease Soundtrack
Paradise by the Dashboard Light – Meatloaf
Bad Habit – The Offspring
Car Wash – Rose Royce
2,4,6,8 Motorway – Tom Robinson Band
Little Red Corvette – Prince
Pink Cadillac – Bruce Springsteen
Route 66 – Chuck Berry
Drive – The Cars
Drive My Car – The Beatles

Planning a long drive? These post might help

15 Essential road trip tips you NEED to know
Things to remember before you leave
Healthy snacks for road trips

Best Driving songs to drive faster to (and sing along with!!)

Yes, we’ve already had some AMAZING road trip songs for the playlist, but here are some more to crank it up and sing along with (just watch that speed limit!!)

Don’t Stop Me Now – Queen
Monkey Wrench – Foo Fighters
Eye of the Tiger – Survivor
Beat It – Michael Jackson
50 Ways to say Goodbye – Train
River Deep, Mountain High – Tina Turner
Cherry Pie – Warrant
I would do anything for love – Meatloaf
Addicted to Love – Robert Palmer
Pour Some Sugar on Me – Def Leppard (one of the best songs about sugar ever 😉 )
Any Way you Want it – Journey (or the Rock of Ages version!)
DOA – Foo Fighters
Lowlife – Theory of a Deadman
Making it Hard – Hinder
Oblivion – Terrorvision
Haven’t Had Enough – Marianas Trench
Angel with a Shotgun – The Cab
Silent Majority – Nickelback
Run to You – Bryan Adams
Thanks for the Mmrs – Fall Out Boy
The Anthem – Good Charlotte
Teenagers – My Chemical Romance
High School Never Ends – Bowling for Soup
Seven Nation Army – White Stripes
Kung Fu Fighting – Carl Douglas
Build Me up Buttercup – The Foundations
Johnny B Goode – Chuck Berry
Come As You Are – Nirvana
Teenage Dirtbag – Wheatus

20 Quieter Road trip songs- for when the kids are sleeping!

These songs are perfect when you want to turn it down a little bit. Admittedly, we tend to turn them up, but then we don’t have young kids anymore!

(Top tip for parents- these children’s car games won’t drive you crazy. Promise!)

Livin’ Thing – Electric Light Orchestra
All I Need is a Miracle – Mike and the Mechanics
Everybody wants to Rule the World – Tears for Fears
Money for Nothing – Dire Straits
In the Air Tonight – Phil Collins (just remember to air drum quietly!!)
I don’t want a lover – Texas
The Chain – Fleetwood Mac
The Gambler – Kenny Rogers
Stay with Me – Rod Stewart
All Night Long- Lionel Richie
No Son of Mine – Genesis
Easy Lover – Phil Collins & Philip Bailey
Every Little Thing She Does – The Police
It’s a Beautiful Day – Michael Buble
Jesus, He knows me – Genesis
The Day We Caught the Train – Ocean Colour Scene
All Right Now – Free
Another Brick in the Wall – Pink Floyd
Mama Told Me not to Come – Tom Jones
Boys of Summer – Don Henley

Every good road trip needs a GREAT playlist! Here are the best road trip songs to sing along to!

Classic road trip driving songs for EVERY trip

These are some of our favourite driving tunes- but they didn’t really fit anywhere else (or they did, but my OCD with the numbers wouldn’t allow it!) Still, don’t forget to put these onto your ultimate driving playlist!!

Africa – Toto
Waterloo – Abba
Like I Roll – Black Stone Cherry
Sharp Dressed Man – ZZ Top
I Love Rock n Roll – Joan Jet
Counting Stars – OneRepublic
Song 2 – Blur
Only The Good Die Young – Billy Joel
Dreadlock Holiday – 10cc
Englishman in New York – Sting
Stacy’s Mom – Bowling for Soup or Fountains of Wayne
The Power of Love – Huey Lewis and The News
One of Us – Joan Osborne
Won’t Get Fooled Again – The Who
When the Going gets tough – Billy Ocean
I Can’t Dance – Genesis
Losing My Religion – R.E.M
We Are Family – Sister Sledge
Video Killed the Radiostar – The Buggles
Hit Me with your Best Shot – Pat Benatar
I Got You (I Feel Good) – James Brown
Graceland – Paul Simon
Since You Been Gone – Rainbow
Total Eclipse of the Heart – Bonnie Tyler
Are You Gonna Go My Way – Lenny Kravitz
I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – U2

Spotify Link for this road trip playlist

If you’d like to download this playlist on Spotify, you can do so here.

And if you found it helpful and like our playlist, feel free to buy us a coffee 😉

Best Road Trip Songs- how did you like our Playlist?

Every single one of these songs makes us turn the volume up and sing along like crazy people- much to the amusement of anyone around us!

These are driving songs to embarrass yourselves to and enjoy every second. I hope it’s given you some great ideas for your own road trip playlist- let me know what you include on yours!!

How else can I help you today?

Record your trip in one of these beautiful road trip logbooks
How to plan an epic RV trip for beginners
The BEST gifts for road trippers
Essential road trip kit
Best Children’s car Games

Planning a summer road trip? This playlist is a PERFECT mix of upbeat driving tunes and classic sing-along favourites. With 150 songs to choose from, this summer road trip playlist has something for everyone! Summer roadtrip music never sounded so good!

Kat never planned to buy a motorhome. She also never planned to quit her job as an air traffic controller, go touring around Europe in said motorhome, start one of the UK’s largest motorhome travel websites… or get a cocker spaniel.

Find out how she went from stuck in the rat race to being a digital nomad and inspiring thousands of people to have their own epic adventures here.

If you’d like to connect with Kat, send her an email or follow her adventures on social media.

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15 comments.

Wow that is a great list. You have a few I had forgotten. Very complete list of all music genre. That is the only problem I have with things like Sirrus and XM you have to select only one type. I love Pandora but as you mentioned DATA, DATA, so Ipod it is for roadtrips.

Thank you! We had a lot of fun writing it and listening to old songs 🙂 Yeah, Data is definitely something worth considering- it can get expensive quickly otherwise!

You missed out poison alive Cooper got to be on

thanks for the information

You’re welcome!

What an awesome song list. Thanks for sharing this list. take care…

You are very welcome- glad you enjoyed it. Happy Road trip!

Great lists. I made playlists on Spotify that can be accessed by anybody. Makes it easy if you have Spotify.

How do I access the playlist that you made

Rockin’ down the highway by The Doobie Brothers

Is there a way to automatically click a link or something so my Apple Music will automatically take and start playing the 150 song list

Wow. Now I have something to do while waiting for lockdown to end. I’ve never heard of some of yours! You won’t have heard of some of mine! Each to his own. I will start with Stones, Clapton, John Mayalls Bluesbreakers, Sonny Boy Williams……….Can’t stop, I’ve got to get my iPod.?

This is a really lovely list. I would also recommend Dead American Presidents’ Peaches for trips through farm country.

I miss the golden Earring with Radar love.

Can’t believe you don’t have and Go-Go’s songs listed!! I can think of a few that are awesome road trip songs !!

Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

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Live Updates

9 HRS AGO Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
9 HRS AGO A lot of kids got to see the last total eclipse. What they remember may surprise you
April 5 How to keep pets safe during the solar eclipse, whether at home or on the road
April 5 Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region
April 5 Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse? Here's what to know

Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday

by Bill Chappell

Pinhole shadows show crescent shapes in 2019 as the moon moves in front of the sun — one of several unique phenomena we can see during a solar eclipse. Louis Kwok/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

Pinhole shadows show crescent shapes in 2019 as the moon moves in front of the sun — one of several unique phenomena we can see during a solar eclipse.

If you live along the path of totality for Monday's solar eclipse and you have any Christmas or Hanukkah gear, you might want to break it out. The celestial event will bring odd phenomena to our planet — including changes in how people see colors such as red, green and blue.

Here's a look at some of the unusual visual effects a solar eclipse brings to humans on Earth:

Red and green colors will look strange

That's partly due to the change in light when the moon blocks the sun, but also the way our eyes and brain adjust to and interpret that change.

How to keep pets safe during the solar eclipse, whether at home or on the road

As light dims, our eyes transition from photopic vision, associated with the retina's cone cells that deliver full colors and fine detail, toward scotopic night vision that relies on rod cells to detect objects in low light. In the middle is mesopic vision, the transitional phase where both rods and cones are active.

When the light's intensity dims in the eclipse, colors with longer wavelengths, like red, will look darker as cones become less active. But because rods are sensitive to the shorter blue-green wavelengths , those colors will have a chance to shine.

"This is pretty much a totality thing," Erika Grundstrom, director of astronomy labs at Vanderbilt University , told NPR, with only people in the eclipse's central path guaranteed to witness the phenomenon.

Also, she said, you shouldn't rely on just one red or green T-shirt to trigger the effect.

"You have to have lots of people (or colorful things) around to see it," Grundstrom said via email, adding, "the effect is the result of sudden dimness and your rods and cones trying to make sense of that dimness."

It's called the Purkinje effect.

The Purkinje effect, aka the Purkinje phenomenon or shift , was documented some 200 years ago by Johannes Evangelista Purkinje, a Bohemian scientist who noticed that when light passed through a prism in dimming conditions, the brightest spot moved — shifting away from red and toward blue, on the shorter end of the wavelength spectrum.

Simple tips to safely photograph the eclipse with your cellphone

The effect has been studied in the years since — including during the famous 1919 total solar eclipse that gave scientists important observations affirming Albert Einstein's theory of general relativity .

The dimness should become more noticeable about 15 minutes before the eclipse reaches totality. To many people, the light takes on a metallic or silvery quality.

Some shadows will sharpen; others will alter

For one thing, your own shadow will be different.

"The change in lighting makes shadows look sharper on the ground, so it's possible to see individual hairs on your head in your shadow," according to the European Space Agency .

And if you see the sun's light coming through tight gaps in trees, you might notice lots of little crescents. As the ESA says, "The tiny gaps in the leaves will act like multiple pinhole cameras, projecting the Sun's image to the ground."

What you need to know to watch Monday's total solar eclipse

People in the eclipse's path can also see an odd shimmering called shadow bands.

"A minute or two before totality, ripples of light may flow across the ground and walls as Earth's turbulent atmosphere refracts the last rays of sunlight," as the EarthSky website said in 2017.

Other changes to expect include a drop in temperature — and the appearance of colors in the sky that will make it seem as if you're seeing a sunset (or sunrise) across the full 360 degrees of the horizon.

A lot of kids got to see the last total eclipse. What they remember may surprise you

by Nell Greenfieldboyce

A group of children don eclipse glasses to watch the 2017 solar eclipse at Grand Tetons National Park in Wyoming. VW Pics/Universal Images Group via Getty Images hide caption

A group of children don eclipse glasses to watch the 2017 solar eclipse at Grand Tetons National Park in Wyoming.

People who chase total solar eclipses all around the world will tell you that seeing the moon blot out the sun, plunging the world into sudden darkness, can be a transformative, unforgettable experience.

That's why fourth grade teacher and STEM coach Lisa Buckner at Linden Elementary School in Oak Ridge, Tennessee was surprised when she recently reached out to some former students who'd actually seen one. They'd attended a big event she organized to observe the total solar eclipse that swept across the United States in 2017.

"They're like, 'Yeah, I don't really remember it,'" says Buckner, laughing. "I was like, 'Really?'"

Thinking of taking a last-minute drive to see the eclipse? Here's what to know

"I thought they would remember it for a lifetime," she adds.

After all, eclipse experts like Ralph Chou stress how overwhelming a total eclipse can be.

"Particularly for young people, a solar eclipse can be a life-changing event, literally," says Chou, a vision scientist with the University of Waterloo in Canada who saw his first total solar eclipse at age 12. If all goes as planned on April 8th, when another total solar eclipse will cut northeast across the country , he'll get to see his 20th.

Rick Fienberg , who is the project manager for the American Astronomical Society's eclipse task force, says that he and his colleagues have encountered plenty of people who were profoundly affected by seeing the 2017 eclipse.

"We've heard them tell us their stories over a cup of coffee," says Fienberg. "And many of them have said, 'Yeah, it changed my life. It has turned me into an eclipse chaser,' or 'It's caused me to read endless astronomy books or to pay more attention to science news.'"

But that's just anecdotal, he says. He's not aware of any data showing whether or not an eclipse can, say, boost the number of young people going into science careers — much less any studies attempting to quantify the ineffable emotional impact of seeing the sun blacked out.

Solar Eclipse

On eclipse day, hundreds of students will send up balloons for science.

As for Buckner's students, it was the little details that stuck out in their memories — like biting moon pies into the shape of partial eclipse phases, or getting to look through some big telescopes set up by an astronomy club.

"What I thought was so amazing," says Buckner, "is not really what they talked about remembering."

From light to dark

One of the students who attended Buckner's eclipse-observing event is Kaylee Tress, who is now an 8th-grader at Robertsville Middle School in Oak Ridge.

"I remember mostly everybody went crazy when it got dark," says Tress. "It was such a bizarre feeling."

She doesn't think it had any lasting effects on her life — at least not that she's aware of now.

"But it was definitely a really cool experience," she says. "It's hard to explain with words."

Some kids in Tennessee who were younger than she was in 2017 don't have any clear memories.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

"I think we went to the front yard to watch the sun," says Lilly Coffman of Oak Ridge, who is now 9 years old, and saw the last eclipse at home with her grandmother. "I don't remember."

Evelyn Sherfy, who is also now 9 years old, had to check with her older sister. "Weren't we, like, with the neighbors?" she asked, uncertain. Her sister confirmed that yes, they'd gone to a blueberry farm with some neighbors.

Kids who were a few years older at the time seem to remember more.

Kepler Colwell was five years old when he saw the 2017 eclipse outside his family's home in Knoxville, Tennessee. He says it's not a "super-clear memory, but a pretty decent, clear memory. I remember it pretty well."

Specifically, he remembers looking at his family's white car when the last bits of the sun got covered up by the moon.

"Like, the car was there — it just went from light to dark, instantly," he says. "Everything was dark. It was really cool."

Ella Hay, who was six years old when the eclipse happened, remembers being out in an open field with her best friend, teacher, and all of her classmates.

"I have a mental picture of what it was," she says. "It slowly got dark and then, BAM."

The sounds of insects

Landon Davis was five years old when the eclipse happened, and remembers being on the playground and using eclipse glasses before the big event. "I don't really remember that much," he says.

His brother Jayden, who is a few years older, also remembers wearing eclipse glasses. "But I also remember hearing crickets, like at its peak of darkness I heard crickets as well," he says.

The nighttime insects starting to make noise during the day also made an impact on Odelia Kneiser, who was in the fifth grade in 2017.

"That's definitely the most distinct memory I have from that day," she says.

She has no memory of seeing the totally eclipsed sun as a black circle in the sky, but does remember wearing a welding helmet that her father had fitted out with the proper filters to safely view the partially eclipsed sun.

And while she enjoyed seeing the eclipse, "I think it's not as significant as I've heard other people express it as."

Jayden Davis also said it doesn't rank all that high in terms of his most important memories. "Here and there, I think about it sometimes," he says.

Chase Stanek, who is now a junior in high school in Wisconsin, says that even though the event was super-memorable and fun, "I wouldn't say it changed my life path or any of that."

A 'wake-up call'

Some of the young people who saw the eclipse say it had more of an impact.

"I don't know about lasting effects — but it's definitely right up there as a top memory because, you know, it's not a common event," says Alex Shulze, who was nine years old when he saw the eclipse. "It was something really un-normal. It was fun . It was very different. It's not something that I'd ever, obviously, seen. So I was really happy to actually experience it and kind of see what happened."

He's become interested in meteorology — before the eclipse, he'd already been paying attention to the dynamic power of storms — and says it's possible that the eclipse, with its effects on temperature and the environment, might have influenced that growing fascination.

George Breiwa is now a high school senior in Lodi, Wisconsin, and he remembers almost everything about his fifth grade trip to see the eclipse — which he described as "a wake up call."

"It's not something you see every day, obviously. So it just kind of brought the perspective of like there's more out there than you see every day, every year, you know?" says Breiwa. "It just kind of broadened the horizons and perspectives on literally everything."

The teacher who organized the eclipse field trip for Breiwa and his classmates, Alison Juntunen , says that maybe young people are more likely to be influenced by an eclipse than older people.

"They have more time maybe to dream and ponder and be changed," she says. "I feel like that is a possibility."

And any effects could be subtle. Laura Peticolas , for example, was nine years old when her family went to see a total solar eclipse in Oregon in 1979. She vividly remembers driving out in the family's VW bus and camping, with her dad playing Pink Floyd's Dark Side of the Moon.

What she doesn't remember is the sun becoming a black void in the sky.

"I don't remember it being a spiritual moment," she says. "In fact, I don't remember that moment at all."

She thinks it was so freaky that her brain blotted it out. Subconsciously, though, she thinks she registered the eclipse experience as "super cool and strange. And I do know that after that, I really was starting to think about what exists in the universe that we can't see."

Eventually, she decided to become a physicist. So even though her childhood self wouldn't have described seeing the eclipse as a transformative event, she suspects it had some kind of impact on the course of her life.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time.

by Rachel Treisman

A dog tries on eclipse sunglasses in London in 2015. Experts say pets don't need eclipse sunglasses — in fact, quite the opposite. Kirsty Wigglesworth/AP hide caption

A dog tries on eclipse sunglasses in London in 2015. Experts say pets don't need eclipse sunglasses — in fact, quite the opposite.

The solar eclipse is a can't-miss event for millions of Americans, whether or not they'll be viewing it from the path of totality . But what does it mean for our many furry friends?

Dr. Rena Carlson, the president of the American Veterinary Medical Association, got a firsthand view of how animals responded to the total eclipse in 2017.

Her veterinary practice, in Pocatello, Idaho, closed down for several minutes so staff members could watch the eclipse outside, along with many of their dogs.

"Honestly, the animals were probably more anxious because of our excitement than anything else," she remembers.

Carlson says while certain dogs may exhibit some of the behaviors they normally do when it starts to get dark outside, the eclipse is unlikely to directly affect pets in a significant way.

But things like crowds and traffic can, which is why experts recommend leaving animals at home to be safe.

Carlson says there are steps that their humans should take to look out for them on such a hectic day — especially if anyone involved is traveling .

"My bigger worry is there was so much traffic and so many people coming through our area that a drive [that] typically would take us two hours took over eight to 10 hours," Carlson says. "So if you're traveling with your dog, please be prepared for long wait times."

Here are some expert tips for protecting your pet during the eclipse, whether they're right in the thick of it or waiting for you at home.

Consider: Should Fido come or stay?

The first step is to decide whether your pet even needs to come with you for outdoor eclipse viewing, whether it's close to home or out of town.

Most of the time, Carlson says, the answer is no.

"It's quite an amazing phenomenon for us to experience," she explains. "And so that can be pretty stressful when dogs are with large crowds and a lot of noise, they don't quite understand the excitement. They're going to be much more nervous about 'What's going on?' and 'How should I react?' "

She says the same guidance applies to all pets, even though cats and birds are not as likely to be traveling in the first place.

"They're going to be better off at home, in their normal environment," she adds.

Prepare for commotion and contingencies if you're traveling

If you do decide to bring your dog, plan ahead for what to do if things get overwhelming.

That includes bringing extra food and water in case the journey takes longer than expected, and getting them out of the car for walks or bathroom breaks if you're stuck in traffic.

Once you're at your destination, Carlson says, "always be thinking about" how to keep your pet safe and comfortable. Keep them on their leash, make sure they're hydrated and pay attention to their body language.

For April's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'OMG' might mean just driving across town

"You know your pets' behaviors better than anybody else," she says. "And so watch for any kind of a change in how they're reacting."

Signs of distress may include panting, pacing and whining. If you notice any of these behaviors, Carlson advises removing your pet from the situation as soon as possible, because "the more worked up they become, the harder it is to calm them down."

"I know there's a lot of activity going on and there's a lot of things to see, and excitement," she adds. "But if you have ... a pet with you, make sure you're really paying attention to them and watching their signs of stress so that you can respond appropriately."

How to make the most of next week's solar eclipse

If you're traveling sans pets, make sure there's someone back home you can call to feed and let them out while you're away, especially if there's a chance you may get home later than normal.

The ASPCA recommends keeping pets busy with a food puzzle toy or other form of enrichment while you're away. But Carlson says not to worry more than usual about leaving your pet alone that day.

"They're not going to be worried about the eclipse happening," she says. "They're just going to think it's a normal day where you're gone."

Don't waste your eclipse glasses on your pet

Any human who plans to look directly at the eclipse needs to wear special sunglasses , except for those few brief minutes when the moon is fully blocking the sun. Pets, however, do not.

"They're outside every day and don't look up at the sun, so there's no reason to think they're going to do that at this point," Carlson explains.

In fact, trying to put glasses on your pet — even for a photo opp — could likely do more harm than good, Carlson says. It could stress dogs, leading them to paw them off and even chew them up.

Why watching the 2024 total solar eclipse might change your life

"Keep the glasses for yourself, because we're the ones that are going to be looking up at the sun and need that protection for our eyes," she says. "They're just going to be looking around like they normally do every day and feeding off of your emotions and your excitement."

Dr. Lori Bierbrier, the senior medical director of ASPCA Community Medicine, told NPR over email that while it's unlikely that animals will look right at the sun, their eyes could be damaged if they do so long enough.

Symptoms of eye damage include squinting, closing one eye or pawing at their eyes, redness, inflammation or cloudiness and watery eyes or discharge. She recommends contacting your vet as soon as you notice them.

Everything you need to know about solar eclipse glasses before April 8

But what about vet offices that are closed for the eclipse — as Carlson's briefly was — or hard to get to on the day of the eclipse?

Carlson says you should be aware of heavy traffic and figure out back roads you can take.

Ideally, worried pet owners could call their vet to explain the situation and get advice first. Carlson says that's just one example of why strong client-patient relationships are so important.

"Whether there's an eclipse or not," she says, "emergencies happen."

by Emily Alfin Johnson

The path of totality and partial contours crossing the U.S. for the 2024 total solar eclipse occurring on April 8, 2024. NASA's Scientific Visualization Studio hide caption

The path of totality and partial contours crossing the U.S. for the 2024 total solar eclipse occurring on April 8, 2024.

On Monday, April 8, a solar eclipse will cross from Texas to Maine, putting over 30 million people in the path of totality , with a partial eclipse visible briefly for millions more.

What is totality and why does it matter? Totality in the U.S. starts around 1:30 p.m. CT/2:30 ET and continues until 2:30 p.m. CT/3:30 p.m. ET lasting for a few minutes in each location.

The folks at NASA have a detailed breakdown for anyone in the U.S. Just pop in your ZIP code . If you're lucky enough to find yourself in the path of totality, you can also find a minute-by-minute breakdown of when totality begins in your area, here.

What you need to know to watch Monday's solar eclipse

How can I make sure my eclipse glasses are legit?

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse.

by Geoff Brumfiel

RV traffic sits at a standstill along a two-lane road near Madras, Ore., a few days before the 2017 total solar eclipse. Experts say traffic could be heavy, but eclipse watchers shouldn't necessarily be deterred. AFP Contributor/AFP via Getty Images hide caption

NASA says that roughly 31.6 million people live in the path of this year's total solar eclipse, and a little under half of the U.S. population lives within 200 miles driving distance of the path of totality .

That could mean many millions of Americans will hit the road to get a better view on April 8. If you're still pondering whether or not you want to make the journey, here's what to consider.

Have some destinations in mind, and check the weather and cloud cover forecasts in advance

It's a good idea to scout out one or more locations within driving distance, so that you have some flexibility if traffic or weather is threatening your plans, says Jonathan Upchurch, a professor emeritus of civil engineering at Arizona State University who has studied travel around solar eclipses.

There are several interactive tools that show the path of totality, including Eclipse2024.org and the National Solar Observatory . You can use them to figure out what sites might work best for you.

In terms of weather, check not just the weather forecast, but also the cloud cover forecast. Some websites, such as Windy.com will predict cloud cover ahead of time, giving you a sense of whether you'll actually be able to see the eclipse in all its glory.

During the total solar eclipse in 2017, Upchurch says he chose to go to Idaho "because there were some great chances of having sunny skies, and I had the opportunity to be nimble and relocate if I wanted to."

Before driving into the path of totality, make sure your gas tank is full and that you've got everything you need

During the last total solar eclipse in 2017, it's estimated some 5 million people took to the roads, and those numbers will potentially be much higher this year.

Given all that, Upchurch says it's important to make sure you're taking what you need into the path of totality. You should make sure your car is gassed or charged up, and that you have plenty of snacks and water with you in case you get stranded for a while, especially when trying to leave.

Solar Eclipse 2024: Totality stretches from Texas to Maine

Also don't forget to bring eclipse glasses, which must be worn anytime you're looking at the sun, except for the few minutes when it is completely blocked by the moon.

Some state emergency planners also recommend bringing a paper map or road atlas in case cellular networks become overloaded with visitors seeking directions from their phones.

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone! Erika Goldring/FilmMagic hide caption

Don't forget your eclipse glasses everyone!

Arrive early and stay late

Once you figure out where you're going to watch the eclipse, and you've got your supplies, try to get there early. Although traffic is likely to be heavier than normal on the morning of eclipse day, it still should be possible to reach many destinations without too much hassle, says Upchurch.

"Leaving is definitely going to be more of a problem," he says. As the eclipse concludes, people will take to the roads all at once to try and get home as fast as they can. In 2017, that led to traffic jams that lasted many hours in some areas. If possible, Upchurch says, people should stay put for a while to try and avoid the worst of the post-eclipse rush, which in 2017 stretched even into the following day in some parts of the country.

And one more thing: If you do find yourself on the move near the time of the eclipse, state officials stress that you should not simply pull over to the side of the road or highway you're driving on. It's important to be parked legally and safely at the moment of totality.

If you're already in the path of totality: Relax and enjoy!

Several major metropolitan areas including Dallas, Indianapolis, Cleveland and Buffalo are already inside the path of totality, so there's no need to seek a better view, Upchurch says. You'll probably have the most fun simply staying where you are.

Shots - Health News

Watching a solar eclipse without the right filters can cause eye damage. here's why.

If you're on the edge of the path of totality, however, you might consider making a short trip to get closer to the center of the eclipse's path.

"If you're within about 40 miles of the center line, you'll have two-and-a-half minutes or more" of complete totality, Upchurch says. It's up to you to decide whether it's worth making the trip to a more central location.

Despite studying the potential hassles of traveling extensively, Upchurch says he's still looking forward to seeing the 2024 eclipse, which he plans to watch from Texas.

"Totality is absolutely spectacular," he says. "If you have a chance to witness it, I would do it."

St. Louis Public Radio

by Lara Hamdan , Brian Munoz

The Bonnie Tyler classic is an obvious choice for any eclipse celebration.

If you're lucky enough to find yourself in the path of totality Monday you'll likely be tempted to focus on the visual experience, but what about the soundtrack to set the mood?

The team at St. Louis Public Radio has curated an eclipse-themed playlist to accompany your watch party or viewing adventure, featuring some obvious classics, punny perfection, and celestially code jams suited for your celebration.

"Music for an Eclipse" track list from St. Louis Public Radio

"Night And Day" - Hot Chip
"Supernova" - Liz Phair
"Black Moon Spell" - King Tuff
"Sunlight" - Meat Wave
"Total Eclipse of the Heart" - Bonnie Tyler
"Eclipse" - Pink Floyd
"Ain't No Sunshine" - Bill Withers
"Staring at the Sun" - TV On The Radio
"Staring at the Sun (feat. Sophie Hintze)" - LCAW
"Anti-Hero" - Taylor Swift
"Black Hole Sun" - Soundgarden
"Moonage Daydream" - David Bowie
"Dancing in the Moonlight" - King Harvest
"Sun Is Shining" - Bob Marley & The Wailers
"Red Moon" - Whitney
"Da-Doo" - Little Shop of Horrors soundtrack
"Darkness On The Face Of The Earth" - Willie Nelson
"Astronomy (8th Light)" - Black Star, Weldon Irvine
"Luna Llena" - Elvis Crespo
"I'll Shoot The Moon" - Tom Waits
"On The Sunny Side Of The Street" - Billie Holiday
"Sun-Earth Rock" - Sun Ra
"Here Comes The Sun" - The Beatles
"Mr. Moonlight" - The Beatles
"Don't Let The Sun Go Down On Me" - Elton John
"Clair de Lune" - Kamasi Washington
"Day 'N' Nite (nightmare)" - Kid Cudi

As for totality? You'll only have a few minutes to enjoy the total eclipse, so pick your favorite track — or connect with all your senses and enjoy the eerie chill and sudden silence of the world in the glow of the ghostly white ring of the sun still visible.

NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson produced this piece.

by The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

by Scott Neuman

The moment of totality during a solar eclipse in Glendo, Wyo., on Aug. 21, 2017. John T. Meader hide caption

The moment of totality during a solar eclipse in Glendo, Wyo., on Aug. 21, 2017.

If you plan to check out Monday's total solar eclipse and the only camera you own is one that doubles as a phone, with a little preparation (and precaution) you might still be able to get some relatively good shots.

The eclipse gives astronomy clubs an opportunity to shine

"It all depends on how much effort one wants to put into it," says Sean Walker, an associate editor with Sky & Telescope magazine. For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse.

In the U.S., the path of totality for the best views stretches from southern Texas, crossing through the South and Midwest and into the Northeast before hitting Maine. But anyone in the continental U.S. can catch at least a partial eclipse, weather permitting.

Don't look up — look down!

It will be possible to capture interesting images even if you don't live in, or travel to, that swath where the moon will appear to nearly perfectly cover the sun. "If you're within several hundred miles of the path of totality at maximum eclipse time," Walker says, "the spaces between leaves on trees and basically anything that makes a pinhole will project an image of the crescent sun on the ground or on a wall ... depending on how high the sun is at the time."

A photo shows the eclipse projected through the spaces between leaves taken on Aug. 21, 2017, in Glendo, Wyo. John T. Meader hide caption

A photo shows the eclipse projected through the spaces between leaves taken on Aug. 21, 2017, in Glendo, Wyo.

That's a photo that's "all easy peasy with a cellphone," says John Meader, director of Northern Stars Planetarium and Educational Services in Fairfield, Maine. Another option is to shoot the environment around you as it is darkened as the eclipse reaches totality. "Maybe a before and during shot of the same scene to capture the changing light levels," he suggests.

Feeling more ambitious? A tripod is a must

If you're determined to take a direct photo of the eclipse, you will need a bit more preparation.

The key to getting a good photo is "a simple tripod that will hold your cellphone stable so you can take pictures and not wiggle around during the totality," Walker says.

Even so, hitting the shutter button by hand could cause unwanted jiggle. To avoid that, consider a Bluetooth trigger . Or set the camera to "timer mode," giving it a few seconds to settle before it snaps the picture.

Randall Benton, a freelance photographer with a passion for solar eclipses, says the other option is to shoot video "just as the sun is going dark." Although the quality of phone video isn't quite as good as a still image, you can always extract a still from the video later, he says.

For best results, use your phone's manual settings

If you've never fiddled with your camera's settings, now's a good time. You'll want to reduce the exposure, at least during the partial eclipse phase, and also to set focus to "infinity." (Here's how to access manual controls for an iPhone or Android .) If you have a second pair of solar eclipse glasses, you can use them as a filter to cover the camera lens on your phone, Benton says. It will protect your phone's camera from possible damage from long exposure to direct sunlight and give you a more dramatic shot.

"You want to keep those solar glasses as close against the lens as possible, because most of [them] have a mirror surface on both sides," he explains. If any light leaks in from the sides, "it can reflect off of the back side of the filter and create glare or funny reflections that can spoil the image."

If you're in the path of totality, don't forget to remove the filter when the magic moment arrives. "Try to zoom in, because you're not going to hurt your eyes looking at totality. It's only when the disk of the sun is visible that you really shouldn't be looking at it directly without filtration," Meader says.

Of course, you could always leave the photography to the pros, live in the moment and take in the celestial show.

"While it's great to take your own photos, if this is your first eclipse, really enjoy the experience," Walker says. "When [you] actually experience totality, your mind has a hard time wrapping around that. ... It's just an amazing experience."

by Regina G. Barber , Nell Greenfieldboyce , Margaret Cirino , Rachel Carlson , Rebecca Ramirez

Diamond ring effect as seen from Scottsville, Kentucky during the 2017 total solar eclipse. Philip Yabut/Getty Images hide caption

Diamond ring effect as seen from Scottsville, Kentucky during the 2017 total solar eclipse.

On Monday, April 8, the moon will slip in front of the sun, blocking its light and creating an eerie twilight in the middle of the day. Stars will come out, the air will get cold and colors will dance around the horizon. This is the full-body experience that is a total solar eclipse.

Viewers along a 100-mile wide ribbon of land stretching from Texas to Maine will be lucky enough to be in the path of totality – where observers can watch as the moon completely covers the sun. Though every contiguous U.S. state, plus parts of Alaska and Hawaii, will experience at least a partial solar eclipse.

The weird and wonderful sensations of viewing a total solar eclipse

The last total solar eclipse to cover part of the United States happened in August 2017. But its path this year is much wider and will run through more urban areas, which means more people may find it easier to travel to the path of totality.

How to safely admire the eclipse

No matter where you are it's crucial to use eye protection if you plan on looking at the eclipse.

If you're viewing the partial eclipse, you should keep them on the entire time. If you're in the path of totality, you can take off your eclipse glasses when the sun is completely covered by the moon.

It's unlikely that one quick glance at the sun will cause serious damage. But one eclipse chaser and eye specialist at the University of Waterloo in Canada, Ralph Chou , says that at a certain point, these quick glances can add up and damage the light-sensitive part of the retina.

"Typically what will happen is: You look at the eclipse as it is happening without protection, your eyes don't appear to be damaged, everything is fine," Chou says. But then, "the next morning, you wake up and look in the mirror or across the breakfast table at your nearest and dearest, you suddenly realize you can't see their face."

The American Astronomical Society has a list of vetted solar viewer sources on their website.

If you don't feel comfortable using glasses, you can still enjoy a partial eclipse through a pinhole projector following these simple steps:

Outside, stand with your back to the sun.
Let sunlight shine over your shoulder and through something with small holes (like a pasta colander, a straw hat or even a piece of cardboard with a hole in the center).
Enjoy the crescent suns projected onto the ground!

Watching an eclipse? Save your eyeballs — rig up a sweet viewing set-up with some help from this video.

From an ephemeral moment to a lifetime of wonder

For some people, an eclipse is no big deal. But for eclipse chasers , these solar events are life changing .

And for others, it's can be the impetus for a future career. Take space physicist Laura Peticolas at Sonoma State University. She told NPR that she saw a total eclipse with her dad when she was 9 years old. While she doesn't remember the actual moment of the eclipse or many details about that day, she says that in some ways, it inspired her future career.

"I really was starting to think about what exists in the universe that we can't see," she says. "And I used to just wonder about that. This was before I decided to be a physicist. And then I learned that's what physicists do and I was so excited."

But if you don't get to see a total eclipse this April, don't panic! There's a total eclipse once every year and a half or so somewhere on Earth.

Share your eclipse stories with us at [email protected] .

Listen to Short Wave on Spotify , Apple Podcasts and Google Podcasts .

Listen to every episode of Short Wave sponsor-free and support our work at NPR by signing up for Short Wave+ at plus.npr.org/shortwave .

Today's episode was produced by Margaret Cirino and Rachel Carlson. It was edited by Rebecca Ramirez. Nell Greenfieldboyce fact-checked. David Greenburg was the audio engineer.

by Joe Hernandez

People view a total solar eclipse at from the observatory at Rockefeller Center in New York City on Aug. 21, 2017. Drew Angerer/Getty Images hide caption

People view a total solar eclipse at from the observatory at Rockefeller Center in New York City on Aug. 21, 2017.

The total solar eclipse is this Monday. If you're geeked to see it, you'll want to start getting prepared to do so safely.

One way would be to nab a pair of special solar eclipse glasses and to make sure they're the real deal.

Since it's been seven years since the last solar eclipse crossed the U.S. , here's a refresher on all things eclipse glasses so you can view this celestial event without frying your eyeballs.

Remind me. What's the deal with this total eclipse?

A total solar eclipse — when the moon crosses directly in front of the daytime sun — will appear in the sky on April 8, 2024.

An estimated 31 million people live in the narrow strip of land stretching from Maine to Texas where people will be able to see the total eclipse — when the moon completely covers up the sun. Those outside this "path of totality" will see a partial eclipse, in which the moon blocks anywhere from a little bit to almost all of the sun.

NASA estimates that 99% of people living in the U.S. will be able to see a partial or total eclipse.

Precisely when you'll be able to see the eclipse — and what kind of eclipse you'll be able to see — will depend on your location and time zone.

Total solar eclipses are rare , and many people in the U.S. will have to wait more than two decades for another. The next total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous U.S. will be on Aug. 23, 2044.

Do I really need eclipse glasses?

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse, yes.

Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as "totality." (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)

During the periods before and after totality — and during the entirety of a partial solar eclipse — eye protection is required.

Looking at the sun without proper eye protection for even a short time can harm your eyes and risk permanently damaging your retina, according to the American Academy of Ophthalmology.

Some people can even suffer blindness after looking directly at the sun, an affliction known as solar retinopathy.

Tammy Hellinga, left, and Joanne Hostetter prepare Sun Catcher solar eclipse glasses for shipment to customers from the Explore Scientific store in Springdale, Ark., on Jan. 30. Michael Woods/AP hide caption

Specialized eclipse glasses and hand-held solar viewers solve that problem. Their filters typically let through between 0.001% and 0.00005% of visible light, and they can be more than 1,000 times darker than ordinary sunglasses, the American Astronomical Society says .

Can I use something else to see the eclipse?

For sure. You can use a pinhole projector or camera obscura or even a colander to cast an image of the eclipse on the ground or a wall.

What you should not do is try to look at the eclipse through a telescope, binoculars or an unfiltered camera — even if you're wearing eclipse glasses.

And it bears repeating: Your regular sunglasses are not strong enough for eclipse viewing.

OK, I'm sold. Where can I get a pair?

There are plenty of eclipse glasses available for free or sale in person and online, but experts are urging people to source glasses carefully and beware of fakes .

Rick Fienberg, project manager of the AAS Solar Eclipse Task Force, says counterfeit eclipse glasses began appearing on the market just before the 2017 solar eclipse.

"[W]e didn't know who was making them, and we didn't know if they were safe," he told NPR via email.

The AAS issued a warning, and Amazon temporarily pulled some eclipse glasses from its website.

For this year's eclipse, Fienberg says, his group has had time to request testing information from many manufacturers. But he adds that some sellers of bogus eclipse glasses now fraudulently use the name or design of other companies.

There's a list on the AAS website of recommended eclipse glasses and other solar viewers that are made by reputable companies and safe when used properly.

Still, beware: Narrowing your choices to products that say they comply with the ISO 12312-2 international safety standard for eclipse glasses may not be enough, the AAS warns, since some vendors have falsely advertised that their untested glasses meet the standard. The AAS suggests avoiding buying products based solely on price from Amazon, eBay, Temu or other online marketplaces.

You may not have to do any shopping yourself, though. More than 13,000 public libraries across the U.S. are handing out 5 million eclipse glasses for free, so check with your local branch.

The first thing to know is that you shouldn't test your eclipse glasses against the sun, just in case they're unsafe, according to NASA Goddard .

Instead, hold them up to a bright lamp or flashlight. The lit bulb should be invisible or very dim through the eclipse glasses, and you should not be able to see the glow around it.

Scenes from the rare 'ring of fire' eclipse

"The way I like to think about it is if I put on the glasses and I can see anything that's not the sun, then they're not dark enough," Angela Speck, chair of the department of physics and astronomy at the University of Texas at San Antonio, told NPR. "That's a quick and dirty way to kind of judge it."

If you're planning to use an old pair of eclipse glasses, experts recommend checking to make sure they don't have any scratches or damage.

Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday

But if for some reason you can't get eclipse glasses before the big event, Speck suggests trying one of the other methods astronomers suggest for viewing the eclipse, like a projector.

"There are alternatives to looking through the glasses, and it would be a shame to miss this for fear of hurting your eyes," she said.

Nell Greenfieldboyce contributed reporting.

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Solar eclipse playlist: 20 songs to rock out to on your cosmic adventure

AP Texas and Oklahoma chief photographer Julio Cortez, talks about the best tips and tricks to get the perfect shot during upcoming total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024. (AP Video/Shelby Lum)

This combination of images shows Bad Bunny, from left, David Bowie, Bruce Springsteen and Taylor Swift. (AP Photo)

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LOS ANGELES (AP) — The total solar eclipse is quickly approaching. While you prepare to hit the road towards the path of total darkness or anticipate hours of traffic coming out of your watch party , you’ll need something to listen to. And we’ve got your back.

Across 20 tracks, here’s a comprehensive playlist of total solar eclipse (and total solar eclipse-adjacent) songs to listen to while preparing to take in the wonders of the universe on Monday. Listen to the full playlist on Spotify .

A classic eclipse song: “Total Eclipse of the Heart” by Bonnie Tyler

There is no more appropriate song than Bonnie Tyler’s karaoke classic, “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” Try not to start a singalong with this one.

A rockin’ eclipse song: “Blinded by the Light” by Bruce Springsteen

Not the synth-y cover by Manfred Mann’s Earth Band — Bruce Springsteen’s spirited “Blinded by the Light” is an eclipse song for the ages, or at least for those hoping to put a little boogie in their viewing experience.

An eclipse song to dance to: “Blinding Lights” by The Weeknd

One of the greatest pop songs of the last decade, The Weeknd’s “Blinding Lights” is not only an ideal song for speeding down a highway in the darkness — safely, of course — but also a Max Martin-produced earworm that will crawl into your brain and lodge itself there forevermore.

Information regarding the total solar eclipse is shown on a digital bill board as drivers make their way down a busy road in Addison, Texas, Thursday, March 21, 2024. (AP Photo/Tony Gutierrez)

A grounded eclipse song, to remind you of the Earth: “Solar Eclipse” by YoungBoy Never Broke Again

The best YoungBoy Never Broke Again tracks bring the listener into his world: He names loved ones, he dives deep into his pain and he transforms it into affecting raps. “Solar Eclipse” centers his own mortality and what would happen to his kids if something were to happen to him. A total solar eclipse can be a time for existential thinking: This is a once-in-a-lifetime moment for many, and so it is important to value that lifetime.

An eclipse song for the introspective listener: “Moon at the Window” by Joni Mitchell

In Joni Mitchell’s “Moon at the Window,” a lover looks out towards the sky and sees “ghosts of the future / phantoms of the past,” the folk legend sings atop jazzy instrumentation. There’s a kind of melancholic whimsy here, and lyrical poetry, which makes this song an appropriate listen for a solar eclipse.

A throwback eclipse song: “Blue Moon” by Billie Holiday

What is a space-themed playlist without a “Blue Moon”? Originally written by Richard Rodgers and Lorenz Hart in 1934, the song has been covered countless times over the decades, but no other hits with the soul of Billie Holiday’s 1952 take.

An eclipse song for the arty folk: “Starman” by David Bowie

If space is the final frontier, David Bowie knew of its powers — and on Tuesday, with a quick listen to “Starman,” we can all try a bit of his Ziggy Stardust .

An eclipse song for people very much in touch with the universe: “Space is the Place” by Sun Ra

The beauty of Sun Ra’s “Space is the Place” is that it’s taken from a 1970s Afrofuturist film of the same name. Start with the song and watching the eclipse in real time, end with a screening.

A righteous eclipse song: “Eclipse” by Earl Sweatshirt

Consider the distorted, reversed production of Earl Sweatshirt’s short rap track as an interlude for this playlist — a palate cleanser with a message.

The “it isn’t an eclipse song, but it also isn’t not an eclipse song” eclipse song: “Moonlight” by Jay-Z

“Moonlight,” an undercelebrated cut from Jay-Z’s momentous 2017 album “4:44,” considers frequent exploitation of Black artists in entertainment. It’s not an eclipse song in a traditional sense but considering his once-in-a-lifetime star power — and that of his collaborators — it feels like a fitting inclusion.

A sexy eclipse song: “Moonlight” by Kali Uchis

Colombian American musician Kali Uchis’ songs center love, loss and divine femininity — and so does her hit “Moonlight.” In this sweet moment of pop astrology, the moon is a source of power.

An eclipse song for the Swiftie in your life: “Seven” by Taylor Swift

Looking up at the sky as a symbol of ambition, hope, nostalgia or innocence has a long literary history. It also functions as the perfect visual for Taylor Swift’s “Folklore” cut “Seven.” Swifties know what’s up.

An idyllic eclipse song: “Moonshadow” by Cat Stevens

What is more fitting for an afternoon eclipse than the soft folk stylings of Cat Stevens’ “Moonshadow”? It doubles as a great road trip song for country road driving, too, so for those who are traveling — take note.

A dreamy eclipse song: “The Moon and the Sky” by Sade

From Sade’s 2010 comeback album “Soldier of Love” comes “The Moon and the Sky,” a soft soul song good enough for Earth and what exists above.

A romantic eclipse song: “Eclipse” by JACE Carrillo and Alyko

Venezuelan Canadian pop singer JACE Carrillo teams up with producer Alyko for this summery, romantic slow burn, “Eclipse.” This is the one you’ll want to turn up if you’re planning on watching the total eclipse with your partner.

An eclipse song to get the afternoon party started: “La Noche de Anoche” by Bad Bunny and Rosalía

The eclipse will hit North America in the afternoon, so a full-on club banger is a little too nighttime for this daytime event. However, some sultry down-tempo reggaetón? That’s on the table, courtesy Bad Bunny and Rosalía .

An R&B-pop bop for the eclipse: “Eclipse” by LOONA’s Kim Lip

Not long after K-pop girl group LOONA debuted, Kim Lip was announced its sixth member and her solo single “Eclipse” was released — a R&B bubblegum-pop song that confirmed her talents. Seven years on, its pleasant pop is worthy of this playlist.

An eclipse song that will immediately inspire a dance lesson: “Eclipse” by GOT 7

K-pop boy group Got7 marry future bass and anthemic rock in this barnburner of a pop song. Give yourself a few hours to learn the choreography to keep yourself occupied while you wait for totality to hit.

An explosive eclipse song for those who feel lonely when the moon covers the sun: “Eclipse” by MAMAMOO’s Moonbyul

Moonbyul’s “Eclipse” begins with a fake out: delicate production explodes into hard-hitting trap production and a gothic chorus — loud synths and chugging guitars. “When the moon covers the sun / It feels like I’m alone,” the K-pop girl group member sings, but that isolation doesn’t last long.

The eclipse song that has to be present on every eclipse playlist: “Eclipse” by Pink Floyd

Can an eclipse playlist exist without ending with the massive drums and Hammond organ of Pink Floyd’s “Eclipse”? We think not.

For more coverage of the 2024 total solar eclipse, visit https://apnews.com/hub/solar-eclipse-2024 .

20 songs to rock out to during the 2024 total solar eclipse

The april 8 total solar eclipse is quickly approaching., by maria sherman | the associated press • published april 3, 2024 • updated on april 3, 2024 at 2:24 pm.

The total solar eclipse is quickly approaching. While you prepare to hit the road toward the path of total darkness or anticipate hours of traffic coming out of your watch party, you'll need something to listen to. And we've got your back.

Across 20 tracks, here's a comprehensive playlist of total solar eclipse (and total solar eclipse-adjacent) songs to listen to while preparing to take in the wonders of the universe on Monday. Listen to the full playlist on Spotify.

There is no more appropriate song than Bonnie Tyler’s karaoke classic, “Total Eclipse of the Heart.” Try not to start a singalong with this one.

Get DFW local news, weather forecasts and entertainment stories to your inbox. Sign up for NBC DFW newsletters .

If space is the final frontier, David Bowie knew of its powers — and on Tuesday, with a quick listen to “Starman,” we can all try a bit of his Ziggy Stardust.

The beauty of Sun Ra’s “Space is the Place” is that it's taken from a 1970s Afrofuturist film of the same name. Start with the song and watch the eclipse in real time, end with a screening.

Consider the distorted, reversed production of Earl Sweatshirt's short rap track as an interlude for this playlist — a palate cleanser with a message.

Colombian American musician Kali Uchis' songs center love, loss and divine femininity — and so does her hit “Moonlight.” In this sweet moment of pop astrology, the moon is a source of power.

What is more fitting for an afternoon eclipse than the soft folk stylings of Cat Stevens' “Moonshadow”? It doubles as a great road trip song for country road driving, too, so for those who are traveling — take note.

From Sade’s 2010 comeback album “Soldier of Love” comes “The Moon and the Sky,” a soft soul song good enough for Earth and what exists above.

Venezuelan Canadian pop singer JACE Carrillo teams up with producer Alyko for this summery, romantic slow burn, “Eclipse.” This is the one you'll want to turn up if you're planning on watching the total eclipse with your partner.

Don't look directly at a solar eclipse for ‘even a split second' without proper protection, optometrist says

When the solar eclipse arrives, NY prisons will be locked down

K-pop boy group Got7 marries future bass and anthemic rock in this barnburner of a pop song. Give yourself a few hours to learn the choreography to keep yourself occupied while you wait for totality to hit.

Moonbyul's “Eclipse” begins with a fake out: delicate production explodes into hard-hitting trap production and a gothic chorus — loud synths and chugging guitars. “When the moon covers the sun / It feels like I’m alone,” the K-pop girl group member sings, but that isolation doesn't last long.

Can an eclipse playlist exist without ending with the massive drums and Hammond organ of Pink Floyd’s “Eclipse”? We think not.

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Dallas Loop Road Trip. For a Texas road trip with a fantastic mix of big cities, great food, charming small towns, and even a bit of nature, consider taking a road trip beginning and ending in Dallas. Start off your trip by enjoying the best of Dallas and Ft. Worth, including the Arboretum, Reunion Tower, and Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas, and ...
6 best road trips in Texas
1. Hill Country. Best scenic road trip. Austin-San Antonio; 200 miles. The Hill Country is one of the prettiest regions in Texas, especially in spring when wildflowers bloom along the roadside. In Austin, soak up the live music and food truck scene - and watch the bats swoop out from beneath the South Congress Bridge - before heading west ...
The Perfect 10 Day Texas Road Trip Itinerary (2024 Guide)
In 1963, Lee Harvey Oswald entered the Texas School Book Depository and changed American history. Now the Sixth Floor Museum, learn all about this tragic event, including the hours before along with the emotional aftermath. Address: 411 Elm St, Dallas, TX 75202. Hours: 10 am-5 pm (Wed-Sun) Price: $18.
‎Texas Road Trip by Jessica Starr
Listen to the Texas Road Trip playlist by Jessica Starr on Apple Music. 33 Songs. Duration: 2 hours, 18 minutes.
100+ Best Road Trip songs (to sing along with as you drive!)
The Kill - 30 Seconds to Mars. Mr Brightside - The Killers. My Songs Know What You Did in the Dark - Fall Out Boy. Don't Threaten Me with a Good Time - Panic at the Disco. Knights of Cydonia - Muse. If I had you - Adam Lambert. All the Small Things - Blink 182. Best road trip songs to sing along with in a car or RV.
Texas Road Trip
Texas Road Trip · Playlist · 182 songs · 4 likes
Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality : NPR
April's solar eclipse is the last time the U.S. will be in the path of totality for 20 years. Follow the NPR Network's coverage from Texas to Maine throughout the day.
KXT's got your playlist for North Texas solar eclipse right here
KXT's got your playlist for North Texas solar eclipse right here. April 5, 2024 by Kaitlyn Matthews. ... The KXT team has curated an eclipsed-themed playlist as a soundtrack for the once-in-a-lifetime occurrence. Whether you're throwing a watch party or taking a road trip to watch the moon eclipse the sun, we've got you covered. ...
Solar eclipse playlist: 20 songs to rock out to on your cosmic
It doubles as a great road trip song for country road driving, too, so for those who are traveling — take note. A dreamy eclipse song: "The Moon and the Sky" by Sade. From Sade's 2010 comeback album "Soldier of Love" comes "The Moon and the Sky," a soft soul song good enough for Earth and what exists above.
Solar eclipse playlist: 20 songs to rock out to on your cosmic
Across 20 tracks, here's a comprehensive playlist of total solar eclipse (and total solar eclipse-adjacent) songs to listen to while preparing to take in the wonders of the universe on Monday ...

The Ultimate Road Trip Playlist by Texans, for Texans

“On the Road Again” by Willie Nelson

“King of the Road” by Roger Miller

“Amarillo by Morning” by George Strait

“Amarillo Highway” by Terry Allen

“Lone Star State of Mind” by Nanci Griffith

“Dublin Blues” by Guy Clark

“Galveston” by Glen Campbell

“Waltz Across Texas” by Ernest Tubb

“Dallas” by Jimmie Dale Gilmore

“Pancho and Lefty” by Townes Van Zandt

“Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love)” by Waylon Jennings with Willie Nelson

“Me and Bobby McGee” by Janis Joplin

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Road Trip West Texas

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I Spy: Texas Road Trip Edition

Texas Road Trip Playlist: Sing Your Way across Texas

Texas road trip playlist: Sing your way across the state, from ‘Galveston, oh Galveston’ to the ‘West Texas Town of El Paso’

Abilene: “Abilene,” Waylon Jennings

Amarillo: “Amarillo By Morning,” George Strait

Bandera: “Bandera Waltz,” Ernest Tubb

Beaumont: “Beaumont,” Hayes Carll

Brownsville: “Brownsville Girl,” Bob Dylan

China Grove: “China Grove,” Doobie Brothers

College Station: “Traveler’s Song,” Flatland Cavalry

Corpus Christi: “Corpus Christi Bay,” Robert Earl Keen

Dallas: “Dallas,” The Flatlanders

Del Rio: “Rio,” Duran Duran

Dumas: “I’m a Ding Dong Daddy from Dumas,” Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys

El Paso: “El Paso,” Marty Robbins

Fort Worth, “Does Fort Worth Ever Cross Your Mind?” George Strait

Galveston: “Galveston,” Glen Campbell

Haskell: “West Texas Highway,” Lyle Lovett

Houston: “Houston (Means that I’m one day closer to you),” The Gatlin Brothers

Huntsville: “Huntsville,” by Merle Haggard

La Grange: “La Grange,” ZZ Top

Laredo: “The Wheels of Laredo,” The Highwomen

Levelland: “Levelland,” James McMurtry

Lubbock: “Lonely Lubbock Lights,” Aaron Watson

Luckenbach: “Luckenbach, Texas (Back to the Basics of Love),” Waylon Jennings with Willie Nelson

Marfa: “Marfa Lights,” Kaitlin Butts

Memphis: “Memphis Texas,” Cooder Graw, Chip Taylor & Carrie Rodriguez

Midland: “Fair to Midland,” Dwight Yoakam

Nacogdoches: “Buenos Noches Nacogdoches,” Billy Walker

Pecos: “Pecos Promenade,” Tanya Tucker

Port Arthur: “Port Arthur Waltz,” Harry Choates

San Angelo: “San Angelo,” Marty Robbins

San Antonio: “New San Antonio Rose,” Bob Wills & His Texas Playboys

San Benito: “The Valley,” Charley Crockett

Santa Fe: “Santa Fe,” Augie Meyers

Selma: “Velma from Selma,” Augie Meyers

South Padre: “Somewhere Between Texas and Mexico,” Pat Green

Sweetwater: “Sweetwater, Texas,” The Charlie Daniels Band

Terlingua: “Terlingua Sky,” Gary P. Nunn

Texarkana: “Texarkana,” R.E.M.

Waco: “Wacko from Waco,” Billy Joe Shaver

Waxahachie: “Waxahachie,” Miranda Lambert, Jon Randall and Jack Ingram

Wichita: “Wichita Lineman,” Glen Campbell

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