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Is everything bigger in the Lone Star State? Or is it just a big myth? Learn just how normal Texans really are on this adventure exploring Texas history, culture and politics — from richly diverse San Antonio to the LBJ Boyhood Home in Hill Country to the state capital of Austin. The Old West’s six-guns are gone, but influences of the 26 ethnic groups that settled Texas beckon at every turn.

Best of all, you'll...

Take a study cruise along the River Walk in festive San Antonio to find out how the city blends new development with historic preservation of cultural treasures.
Delve into the life of our 36th president at the LBJ Boyhood Home
Get the lowdown on politics in Austin, and find out why the city is known as the “Live Music Capital of the World” with a private performance from a Grammy Award-winning artist.

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Featured Expert

All Experts

Carolina Castillo Crimm

A retired professor of history, Dr. Caroline Castillo Crimm won many local and state-wide awards, including the prestigious Piper Award as one of the best teachers in Texas. Dedicated to Texas and Hispanic culture, her Spanish family came to Texas originally in 1792 although she was born and raised in Mexico City. The author of “De Leon: A Tejano Family History,” she has appeared on PBS and “The History Channel.”

Please Note:

This expert may not be available for every date of the program

Please Note:

These experts may not be available for every date of the program

Floyd Domino

Floyd Domino is an American musician known for his work in the genre of Western swing. Born in California, Floyd’s close association with Western swing coincided when he joined the group Asleep at the Wheel at 19. After seven years with the band, he still joins them for featured performances. While Floyd is widely recognized for the revival of Western swing, he began his career in jazz, boogie-woogie, swing and blues piano. The Floyd Domino Jazz Trio showcases a unique blend of jazz and blues.

Carolina Castillo Crimm

Tom Alter

Tom Alter is an assistant professor at Texas State University where he specializes in labor and Texas history. He received his BA in history from Indiana University, his MA in history from Texas State University, and his PhD from the University of Illinois at Chicago. Tom is the author of “Toward a Cooperative Commonwealth: The Transplanted Roots of Farmer-Labor Radicalism in Texas” (University of Illinois Press, 2022).

Aurora Cruz Nelson

Aurora Cruz Nelson is a seasoned world traveler and lifelong learner. Her travel experience has given her a global perspective that she is passionate about sharing, and she strives to ensure that others are positively impacted by their travel as well. Aurora has held positions in education, nonprofits, and travel sectors. She is motivated by her dedication to quality life for all, and her strengths include creativity, curiosity, and gratitude.

Michael Robinson

Michael Robinson is a professional guide and owner of San Antonio ProTours, the exclusive operator for the award-winning Hotel Emma. He is an expert conversationalist and presenter with vast and varied experience as a history teacher, large event emcee, stand-up comic, and more. Michael has lived and worked in Philadelphia, New York City, Portland, and Zurich. He and his family moved to San Antonio in 2018 to be close to his wife’s family, South Texans for many generations.

Harrison Eppright

Harrison Eppright, a proud East Austin native, has been sharing the rich and complex history of Austin as a tour guide for nearly two decades. Known for his passion for history, African American heritage, and architecture, Harrison highlights Austin’s past and present through his engaging storytelling and theatrical flair. With the ever-changing landscape of his hometown, he is dedicated to preserving and sharing its cultural legacy with locals and visitors alike.

Activity Level

Keep the Pace

Walking up to three miles daily. Must be able to climb stairs and board motor coach with minimal assistance. Standing in museums for up to two hours a day.

Suggested Reading List

View Full List (11 Books)

You can also find many of the books we recommend at the Road Scholar store on bookshop.org, a website that supports local bookstores.

HAVE QUESTIONS?

Prefer to enroll or inquire by phone?

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Call 800-454-5768

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Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.

Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.

Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.

Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.

Peace of Mind

We want your Road Scholar learning adventure to be something to look forward to—not worry about. That’s why we go to the ends of the earth to give you peace of mind, from the moment you enroll until the day you return home.
Assurance Plan

Road Scholar's continued commitment to our participants and their well-being is exemplified whether participating on a program in the United States or on one of our International programs, every Road Scholar participant receives coverage under our Road Scholar Assurance Plan.
Want to Protect Your Investment?

Road Scholar is pleased to offer its Trip Protection Plan as a way to protect your program investment. You may purchase this optional trip protection plan when enrolling in your program.
Sustainable Travel

We offset a portion of the emissions created by your travel. Read about our commitment to a more sustainable planet.