It's already time for another road trip again, y'all! I know Halloween isn't here yet, but there's never a bad time for a little ghostly fun, right? Texas is a notoriously haunted state, so it's no surprise that many of our cemeteries have terrifying urban legends associated with them. I'm sure there are tons more across the state, but these nine haunted places in Texas are some of the most sinister, eerie, and horrifying, and we dare you to go on this trip and check them out. You're brave enough, right? As usual, I've included the official Google Maps page with all the details regarding directions. Happy haunting - after all, it's not every day you experience the most haunted cemeteries in Texas!
Our first stop is a cemetery in Southeast Texas that harbors a tale of both romance and eeriness. While these statues might not look inherently sinister, they're rumored to hold the souls of two lovers that couldn't bear to lie in their separate graves apart from one another. They're known as the "Kissing Statues" because legend has it that if you visit the cemetery at night, park your car in front of them, and turn on your brights, they'll turn towards one another and engage in a heartfelt kiss. Even if that might not be true, the statues are a marvel in and of themselves. They were crafted so intricately that they really do almost appear real. This is one of those weird places in Texas you won't want to go to by yourself!
This cemetery is the resting place of the famous General Sam Houston and a lesser-known entity called Black Jesus. Apparently the statue used to be bronze, but the harsh elements weathered it away to its current unforgiving, black-as-night appearance. Every grave in close proximity to it is facing West, while the rest of the graves in the cemetery face East. The story goes that every night, Black Jesus turns his hands down as opposed to their usual upward-facing position. Are you brave enough to find out the truth? Visit the most haunted cemetery in Texas to find out!
The story of the old woman of Rose Hill Cemetery is more heartwarming than spooky, but it's a ghostly tale all the same. There's a woman buried here by the name of Madge Ward, and people come from far and wide to marvel at her grandiose gravestone: a gigantic piano. It's only fitting given that much of her life was spent playing all over the world for just about every audience you can imagine. The black and white keys were her passion, and she wanted that conveyed to the world for the rest of eternity. People have reported hearing a somber tune, like that of a piano, when visiting the cemetery at night. It appears to have no source, but it's always in the vicinity of Madge's gravesite. We suppose she's playing her little heart out at the Carnegie Hall of Heaven and just wants us to know she's alright.
At first glance, you might get a kick out of this statue - until night falls, of course, and even the most seemingly innocent objects turn sinister. This gravestone, marking the body of a late small-town furniture maker, depicts Jesus Christ wearing a pair of cowboy boots. Classic Texan move, right? Wrong. The deceased is rumored to have been an atheist, and his grave is the only one in the cemetery not facing east. Also, there are inverted torches carved into the bottom of the statue. While these facts alone might not spell trouble, this does: many late-night visitors have reported seeing the statue move. It could just be a trick of the night, but nearly everyone swears they could feel the cold, unnerving eyes of this Jesus imposter boring into their skin and penetrating their soul.
This cemetery has a ghost story that will chill you to the bone: the story of Smiley. Obviously, that name sounds the complete opposite of scary, but just wait until you hear the terrifying details. This grave hold an entire family - a father, mother, and three children - by the name of Smiley. They all died on the same day, May 9, 1927, at the hands of the father. People say that if you visit the grave at midnight on Halloween and lie down, you'll be wrapped in a ghostly embrace and struggle to get back up as Mr. Smiley tries to add you to his spectral family. Don't get too comfy, because if you lie there too long, it just might be too late. Who volunteers to be the guinea pig? Not us!
This cemetery in the desolate, backwoods town of Liberty Hill is the resting place for many slaves. Most of the graves date back to the 1800s, including that of "The Witch," a young black girl who was supposedly accused of witchcraft and lynched from an old, scraggly tree that still stands in the graveyard. Her grave reads, "whoever passes over this grave shall die as I have died." If you visit the cemetery at night, you just might see her swinging from the tree...and if you do, you'd better run, because she may use her powers to free herself from the rope and come after you so you can meet the same fate as her. After all, that promise is etched on her gravestone.
That name alone - Baby Head Cemetery - is enough to get every hair on your body standing on end. It was born from a gruesome tragedy over a century ago - a group of Indians in the area kidnapped a young girl, killed her, and placed her head at the foot of a mountain which was subsequently named "Baby Head Mountain." The settlement flourished into a town and left the horrific memory in the past before eventually fizzling out into a ghost town. Now, the only remnant is the eerie cemetery. This historical marker is often seen with babydoll heads dangling from it...a harmless prank, or a physical manifestation of something more sinister lurking at the bottom of the mountain?
This cemetery is easily one of the creepiest in the state. As soon as you drive in, there's a huge sign that says, "NO WITCHCRAFT!" The only reason a sign like that would be necessary is if people were doing witchcraft, right? There's also a really scary urban legend associated with the cemetery. Evidently, if you park your car in front of a white cross just inside the gate, turn off your car (including your headlights), lower your windows (yeah, no thanks), and flash your brights five times, you'll see the pale silhouettes of apparitions flitting about in front of you.
Galveston is a notoriously haunted city, so it's no surprise that there are plenty of stories regarding its cemeteries. You might see the ghost of a uniformed solider or a casualty of the 1900 hurricane. We guarantee you won't have an uneventful experience here. This extraordinarily haunted cemetery in Texas is a must-do for the brave.
Have you been to any of these cemeteries? Did you have any paranormal encounters there? If you like scary stuff as much as we do, check out this ghost town road trip in Texas that's sure to chill you to your very core.
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Mueller Lake Park is one of our favorite places to stroll and watch ducks. (Nikki DaVaughn/ City Cast Austin)
It’s no secret that Mueller is one of the fastest-growing neighborhoods in the city. Formerly Robert Mueller Municipal Airport, it’s now a 700 acre mixed-income, mixed-use community. Mueller has just about anything you need: Bustling nightlife, restaurants, a movie theater, an abundance of family friendly offerings, and most importantly H-E-B!
🎬 Movie or a Show?
Alamo Drafthouse and Barrel O’ Fun share a spot on Aldrich Street. Not only can you take advantage of Alamo’s diverse movie selection and programming, but Barrel O’ Fun hosts events ranging from trivia nights and poetry slams to stand-up comedy showcases. It’s a great one-stop-shop for any day of the week!
🍔 Feeling Hungry?
There is no shortage of places to catch a bite in Mueller. Iconic Austin eateries Kerbey Lane and Chuy’s are a must if you’re feeling nostalgic. L’Oca d’Oro is a good date night spot for locally grown farm-to-table Italian-inspired food. Want something quick and on the go? Head over to the food truck park near the hangar and check out The Original New Orleans Po-Boy and Gumbo Shop for some truly life changing Cajun food, or Conscious Cravings for vegan wraps, salads, and more! If making your own delicious food is more your speed, Texas Farmers’ Market is open every Sunday 10am-2pm.
🥂 Wellness
OK, I know!! But hear me out: The options for health and wellness in Mueller are kinda awesome. Firstly, there are 140 acres of parks and open space that includes a 5 mile hike-and-bike trail loop, 10 park areas, and a lake. There are various businesses dedicated to health and wellness like Swish Dental, Whole Family Chiropractors, and Massage Heights. Lastly, if you want to pamper yourself a little you have to stop by Great Nails or any of the countless retail stores in the neighborhood.
Best Travel Gifts of 2024, Hand-picked by Our Travel Experts
If you're looking for gifting ideas for the travelers in your life this holiday season, check out our list of our favorite, tried and true travel gifts.
Welcome to Hand-Picked, a curated series highlighting the travel gear and goods our staff truly love. From practical essentials to playful extras, these are the items that make travel fun—and shopping even better! Each pick is independently selected by our editors, and if you make a purchase through our links, Only In Your State may earn a commission.
There is nothing that makes me happier than picking out the perfect gift. Friends often ask me for ideas of what to gift to their family, children, partners, friends... the challenge of finding that special item (or experience) is my favorite kind of adrenaline rush. And because of this, the holiday season is like my version of sky diving.
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Our team of travel experts here at Only In Your State joined me in selecting our favorite travel gifts of the season. We've hand-picked 24 gifts that we own and love and would joyfully wrap up with a shiny bow for other travel lovers in our lives. We've chosen a variety of options, from candles to books, to the perfect travel shoes and bags. There is also a wide range of prices for any gifting budget. Pick out a few to gift this season and maybe even send some of these ideas to those who are shopping for you. It may be the holiday season, but it is also always travel season in our minds.
Why We Love Them: How fun is this candle? I love picking out meaningful gifts and this one is perfect for the woman in your life who can't help but plan another trip. Or, maybe this is you and this candle needs to make its way into your own stocking! The LEADO store on Amazon actually has several unique gifts and it's worth checking out. Where to Buy Them: Shop this candle and more on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 Bonus: Manager of Editorial Megan Shute swears by these rechargeable USB lighters – add one to your favorite candle lover's stocking, and they will not be disappointed.
Why We Love It: We've tried some pretty spiffy eye masks, but have you ever experienced an eye massager? The Bob & Brad EyeOasis 2 is as relaxing as it gets. With adjustable pressure & heat settings, this is a must-have if you want to tune out the world and treat yourself. It's the first thing we reach for when we feel a migraine coming on! Where To Buy It: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $59.99 (normally $74.99)
Why We Love Them: It's safe to say I am in my sneaker era and I know I'm not alone. When I discovered Kizik shoes, especially their sneakers, I felt like I discovered gold at the end of the rainbow. I love that the brand is size inclusive (I have big feet) and you literally just slip these on and go. Hands-free shoes! This makes them perfect for travel and the fact that these go with everything means no over-packing necessary. Where to Buy Them: Check out the Milan sneaker and several other styles (boots, too!) on the Kizik website. Price (at time of publication): $149
Why We Love Them: I discovered Frankie Jean while in Austin with my daughter and once I saw the Y'ALL Baseball Cap, I knew it would make the perfect souvenir -- and travel hat! I always travel with a baseball hat; they're handy for post-plane hair and offer protection from the elements. Frankie Jean has an array of adorable caps for non-y'allers, too, with all 50 states represented in the web store. Where to Buy It: Visit Frankie Jean online for this hat and many others! Price (at time of publication): $32
Why We Love Them: The Yoto Mini is an excellent gadget for kids on the go. Physical cards allow children to expand their imagination through audiobooks, music, activities, and educational audio. Manager of Editorial Megan Shute purchased the mini-player for her daughter's 4th birthday earlier this year ahead of an overseas move and has been endlessly impressed: "Not only did it replace her standard sound machine with its white noise options, but it has given us another portable screen-free entertainment option for at home and while traveling. The Yoto is also perfect for anyone who asks what your child wants for the holidays — cards for their new Yoto collection, please!" Where to Buy Them: Yoto is available on their website and Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $69.99 for player
Why We Love Them: The Vuori Performance Joggers might just be the most comfortable piece of clothing we own. The buttery-soft, stretchy material is the perfect weight, and the slim yet relaxed fit is one of the most universally flattering styles we've tried. Engagement Editor Meg Archer has gifted these to many people over the last few years: "I have yet to hear anything but rave reviews (and a bit of friendly shaming for spawning new obsessions). Don't be surprised if these just so happen to, umm... multiply... in your closet. I couldn't stop at just one pair." Bonus: The matching Vuori Halo Performance Hoodie is one of our favorite lightweight layers for all types of travel! Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From Vuori Price (at time of publication): $94
Why We Love Them: If you have a friend or family member who loves to travel and loves bags (who doesn't?), then this Calpak tote bag is the ultimate gift. When I say ultimate, I mean it, because this is the ultimate bag. My own tote bag is pictured above, when used on an overnight trip. I've also used it as a carry-on bag on flights, to tote sports equipment around for my kids, and for a weekend getaway. It is much larger than it looks in this photo and keeps everything organized. It also wipes clean! Where to Buy Them: Calpak has countless travel bags, but you can find this particular one on their website. Price (at time of publication): $131.75
Why We Love Them: I've purchased two of these portable hammocks with lightweight frames throughout the years — one as a gift for my father and one for myself after realizing how fantastic the hammock was. While it's not a travel product, per se, it has made my everyday life feel more like a vacation, something we could all use a bit more of these days. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $69.99
Why We Love Them: All of the staff at Only In Your State loves to represent their roots and Wear Your Roots allows you to do that in a fashionable - and comfortable - way. We love the wears from this Montana-based company and we happen to believe that these hoodies, shirts, hats, and more make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: Shop now on the Wear Your Roots website Price (at time of publication): Varies by Product
Why We Love It: It's taken several trips for me to figure out my perfect "weekender bag that's TSA approved," but I've found my perfect carry on with the TOBIQ Colorado 30L. An Instagram ad caught my eye during a late-night scroll session and I was intrigued by the colorful compartments and versatility of the bag, which can be carried as a duffle or as a backpack (I prefer the backpack for even weight distribution and airport navigation.) Made of durable, weather-resistant recycled materials, I've stashed this bag under my seat and in the overhead compartment; it's easy to maneuver and the top zip pocket is perfect for easy phone/ID access. Bonus: I loved this carry on bag so much, I purchased TOBIQ's Toiletry Bag; it fits perfectly inside one of the Colorado's four compartments and has a smart, intuitive design with the brand's signature "plethora of zippered pouches and pockets."
Where to Buy Them: Visit tobiqtravel.com to purchase the Colorado 30L and/or Toiletry Bag. Price (at time of publication): $199 (Colorado 30L)/$69 (Toiletry Bag)
Why We Love Them: The Zestt Dreamsoft Travel Scarf doubles as a blanket, making it the perfect travel accessory for year-round adventures – especially on airplanes! Made from organic cotton and easy to wash and care for, we have even used this piece as a makeshift picnic blanket while traveling. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $50
Why I Love It: This raincoat is absolutely perfect: it's light (12.4 ounces!) and super packable, "self stuffing" into one of its pockets in a Houdini-like feat. The hood is generously sized to fit over a hat and has a cord-and-hook design that keeps rain out (seriously -- this photo was taken after a trip to Portland, Oregon, where its water resistance was put to the test!). I purchased my Torrentshellfive years ago and it still looks brand new, the fabric has never snagged or ripped despite being put through the ringer! Bonus: The Patagonia Torrentshell 3L Rain Jacket comes in men's sizes, too! Where to Buy It: Buy it now on REI. Price (at time of publication): $179 (both men's and women's)
Why We Love Them: I love gifting books. Maybe it's the writer in me or the nostalgia I feel every time I sit down and open up an actual book. Coffee table books make for great gifts and I absolutely love this collection of photography of New York City. Whether you know someone who loves NYC or has a wanderlust for the Big Apple, this gorgeous book just needs a bow on top and it's ready to gift. Where to Buy Them: Buy this book and others in the collection on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $19.78
Why We Love Them: A well-stocked first aid kit is essential for any traveler, and we love these small Welly kits. They're the perfect option to keep in your car, diaper bag, or carry-on for accidents on the go. Another excellent stocking stuffer for anyone in your life. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Walmart Price (at time of publication): $9.70
Why We Love Them: The OluKai Pehuea Lī Sneaker is lightweight and breathable, but also extremely comfortable and surprisingly supportive. It's our go-to shoe when we know we're going to be on our feet all day! We love that they can be worn as either sneakers or slides, so they're easy to slip off when going through TSA checks. Plus, the style goes with just about everything. Where To Buy Them: Buy Now From OluKai Price (at time of publication): $110
Why I Love It: Fact: Airplanes are notoriously dry, dry, dry. No matter how much water I drink both before and during the flight, I always find myself in a hydration deficit for days. My skin feels so tight and parched during flights, and while I've been known to slap on a sheet mask at 12,000 feet, my 11 year old's mortification on a recent trip had me rethinking this strategy. My solution? BioRepublic's Lost Baggage biocellulose eye masks. These mini moisturizers contain an uber-hydrating cocktail of peptides, hyaluronic acid, squalene, rose water, and vitamin E that feel oh-so-refreshing on parched skin. Bonus: Each of these little masks has enough moisture that I'm able to massage the excess into the rest of my face after my brief, in-flight spa moment. Where to Buy It: I have a BioRepublic Lost Baggage Under Eye Emergency Repair Mask Subscribe & Save order through Amazon -- you'll get a slight discount if you set this up! Price (at time of publication): 3/$15.00
Why I Love It: I am a dedicated Stanley girl, but when I travel, I like to keep things as light and portable as possible. A recent trip to Washington D.C. had me singing the praises of my Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle, especially after paying $6 for a tiny bottle of water the afternoon we arrived and embarked sans water. I love the bottle's muted color options (I have the Hydaway in Twilight), sturdy handle, and fuss-free cleaning; fully extended it holds 17 ounces of water, making this smart little number perfect for filling up on the go. Where to Buy Them: The Hydaway Collapsible Water Bottle is available at several online merchants; I purchased through REI. Available here on Amazon. Price (at time of publication): $27.95.
Why We Love Them: This is one of those things that we don't know how we traveled without them. Packing cubes keep things organized, save space in a suitcase, and take the pain out of the packing process. If you know and love someone who travels, this set would make the perfect gift. Where to Buy Them: There are so many options for packing cubes on Amazon, but we particularly LOVE this set. Price (at time of publication): $16.99 for 8 cubes
Why We Love Them: I've been a fan of Beis for years now, starting with the Weekender (it’s my absolute favorite travel bag for short car trips or flying and is surprisingly roomy). I recently purchased another Beis item — the backpack. With a padded interior sleeve, two water bottle pockets, and plenty of organization built-in — we’re talking zippered interior pockets, pen slots, a key leash, and more — this is the best backpack I’ve ever owned. It also has a full-zip opening, so it’s easy to pack, and the trolley pass-through makes it the perfect carry-on companion. This olive beauty is officially my new favorite personal item while traveling, and I’ve already brought it on several trips. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Beis Price (at time of publication): $88
Why We Love Them: We bought this set of two accessory organizers for a recent trip and think they would make a fun stocking stuffer filled with all sorts of small and useful travel goodies — chapstick, hair ties, mini lotions, bandaids, etc. The gift recipient can then use the organizers for travel. Where to Buy Them: Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $17.66
Why We Love It: The sleek style of the Away Everywhere Zip Backpack looks at home in just about any environment, making it a great transition bag if you need to hop right from a flight into a work meeting (or want to start exploring as soon as you land). It's water-resistant, has a padded laptop sleeve to keep your devices safe, and the full wrap-around zipper makes it incredibly easy to grab what you need in a cramped airplane seat. I love it! Where To Buy It:Buy Now From Away Price (at time of publication): $195
Why We Love It: Engagement Editor Meg Archer recently travel-testedthis high-end aluminum travel case, and it can only be described as the Lamborghini of Luggage: "The Sterling Pacific 40L Travel Case is hands down the best I've ever owned or reviewed. It's stunning inside and out, timelessly stylish, and rolls like a dream. Honestly, I didn't know luggage could move like this." It's undeniably a splurge, but if you're looking for a piece of eye-catching yet understated luxury-tier luggage, this is it. Where To Buy It: Buy Now From Sterling Pacific Price (at time of publication): $2,150
Why We Love It: Throw out all your assumptions about generators. The Anker Power Bank Portable Generator is all-electric (so it's totally silent), super compact, and has a massive 60,000 mAh capacity that can power multiple devices dozens of times on a single charge. It also retains an impressive 85% charge after a whole year of non-use, making it absolutely vital during emergencies. This bad boy kept us in touch with family during a multi-day blackout, but we also love it for camping trips and off-grid adventures. Where To Buy It:Buy Now On Amazon Price (at time of publication): $149.99
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If you need anymore ideas for the best travel gifts of the season, we have you covered. Check out more of our travel-themed gift guides...
