Texas weather can really shape your whole trip, swinging from pleasant spring days to brutal summer heat that often climbs over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.
Because Texas is huge, the weather shifts a lot from the sticky Gulf Coast to the dry deserts, so timing your visit matters more than you might think.
If you want ideal weather, late fall (October through November) and spring (March through May) are your best bets. These months usually bring comfortable temperatures and moderate rainfall across most of the state.
During this time, you can get outside without fighting off crazy heat or the big tourist crowds that show up in summer.
If you understand Texas weather patterns, you can plan your activities to fit the season—whether you want to explore lively cities during a mild spring or catch a festival when the temperatures feel just right.
This guide breaks down what you can expect month by month, covers the regional quirks, and highlights seasonal events so you can get the most out of your Texas trip, no matter when you go.
Understanding Texas Weather Patterns
Texas really does have its own thing going on with the weather, thanks to its size—spanning over 800 miles.
The geography changes a lot, so you get all sorts of climate zones, which means temperatures, rain, and humidity levels can be all over the place.
Seasonal Climate Overview
Spring brings mild temps and moderate rain to most of Texas.
From March through May, you’ll see average temperatures between 65°F and 80°F in a lot of places.
This is when the weather feels best for getting outside.
Summer gets seriously hot and humid.
From June to August, temperatures often soar past 95°F, and some spots break 100°F pretty regularly.
If you’re near the coast, the humidity just makes it all feel even hotter.
Fall is another sweet spot, with temperatures dropping and humidity easing up.
September through November feels a lot like spring, though early fall can still hang onto some heat.
Winter depends on where you are in Texas.
From December to February, the north can get freezing, while the south usually stays mild.
Snow is rare unless you’re way up in the panhandle.
Regional Weather Variations
East Texas gets the most rain, often over 40 inches a year.
It’s more humid here, and the temperatures stay a bit more moderate, thanks to the Gulf of Mexico.
West Texas is all about that arid desert climate, with less than 10 inches of rain each year.
Day and night temps can swing wildly, sometimes by 40°F.
Coastal regions along the Gulf stay warm all year, but you have to deal with high humidity and the possibility of hurricanes from June through November.
North Texas gets more of the classic four-season weather, with hot summers and the occasional icy winter storm.
Typical Temperature and Precipitation Trends
July usually wins as the hottest month, with highs from 85°F in the north to well over 100°F in the south.
January is the coldest, but freezing temps mostly stick to the northern counties.
Rainfall peaks during spring, especially in May, when thunderstorms are more common.
Drought hits Texas pretty often, with some areas going through long dry spells.
Heavy rain can quickly cause flash flooding, especially in the central hill country.
Best Time to Visit Texas for Ideal Weather
Texas really shines in two windows—spring and fall.
Spring brings mild temps and blooming wildflowers, while fall gives you a break from the summer heat and pleasant conditions for being outside.
Spring Highlights: March to May
Spring is hands down the best time to visit Texas if you want great weather.
Highs usually land in the 70s to mid-80s.
In March, expect highs around 73°F, with cool nights near 50°F.
The air stays mild, and humidity is low.
April might be the most pleasant month—highs hit about 80°F, and nights are still comfy around 58°F.
May warms up a bit more, with highs reaching 85°F.
Humidity starts to creep up, but it’s usually still fine for most outdoor plans.
Rain doesn’t show up too often in spring—just 7-9% of days on average.
Wildflowers, especially bluebonnets, start popping up everywhere in April.
Winds stay gentle, averaging 8-9 knots, so you get nice breezes without the annoyance.
Fall Comfort: September to November
Fall is the other prime time for Texas weather.
The heat starts to fade, and things get way more comfortable.
September can still feel warm, with highs around 89°F, but it’s a big step down from the summer.
Humidity starts to drop, too.
October is pretty much perfect—highs around 82°F, and nights cool off to about 60°F.
November brings even milder days, with highs at 71°F and nights dipping to 49°F.
Rain is moderate in fall, happening about 6-9% of the time.
September gets a bit more rain than October or November.
Humidity hangs in the 53-56% range, which feels nice.
Winds are usually light, at 6-7 knots during most fall months.
Benefits of Visiting in Off-Peak Months
If you go in spring or fall, you’ll save some cash—hotel rates drop a lot compared to the packed summer season.
Crowds thin out, so you’ll have an easier time at popular attractions, parks, and outdoor spots.
The weather makes outdoor stuff—hiking, camping, exploring—so much more enjoyable.
Spring is famous for wildflowers all over Texas.
Fall is packed with festivals, outdoor events, and long sightseeing days.
You’ll also get clearer skies, which is great if you’re into photography.
Texas Weather by Month: What to Expect
Texas cycles through four distinct seasons, and the temperature swings can be pretty dramatic.
Spring brings mild temperatures in the 60s and 70s.
Summer gets extremely hot, often above 90°F.
Fall is comfortable, and winter usually hangs out in the 50s and 60s.
March to May Weather Details
March kicks off the run of nice weather.
Daytime temps usually land between 60°F and 75°F.
It’s a great month for being outside before the heat cranks up.
April keeps the good vibes going, with highs in the mid-70s to low 80s.
Humidity is still low.
Rain picks up just a bit but usually doesn’t ruin outdoor plans.
April is also prime time for wildflowers.
Bluebonnets and other blooms turn the state into a burst of color.
May starts to feel warmer, with highs climbing to 80°F or 85°F.
The heat gets more noticeable, and late May can bring more spring storms.
June to August: Texas Summer
June means serious heat.
Most places see temps above 90°F.
Humidity spikes, especially closer to the Gulf.
Highs often top 95°F to 100°F.
If you visit in June, plan for the heat.
Early mornings and evenings are your best friends.
Air conditioning? Pretty much a must.
July is the peak of the heat.
Many areas hit 100°F or more, and the heat index can make it feel even worse.
August keeps up the same pattern, with temps in the upper 90s to low 100s.
Sometimes, late August cools off a bit as summer winds down.
Afternoon thunderstorms get more common.
September to November: Transition Into Fall
September finally brings a break.
Highs drop into the 80s and 90s, and the worst of the summer heat starts to fade.
Humidity keeps dropping, too.
October is just about perfect for weather.
Highs sit between 70°F and 80°F, making it awesome for outdoor stuff.
Fall festivals pop up everywhere.
November cools off more, with highs in the 60s to 70s.
Nights get chilly, and rain becomes less frequent.
Cold fronts can roll through in November, dropping temps fast.
It’s smart to pack layers just in case.
December to February: Winter Conditions
If you visit Texas in December, you’ll get some of the mildest winter weather in the country.
Temps usually stay between 50°F and 65°F.
Snow almost never shows up unless you’re far north.
January is the coolest month.
Highs reach 55°F to 60°F.
Freezing temps happen now and then but don’t stick around.
Ice storms are possible, but big snow events are rare.
By February, you’ll notice spring trying to come back.
Temps start to rise into the 60s and 70s.
Cold snaps can still show up, but they’re less common.
Winter is a good time for indoor attractions like museums and restaurants.
When it’s warmer, you can still get outside.
Where to Go in Texas Based on the Season
Texas has something different to offer every season.
Spring and fall are perfect for cities and outdoor adventures, while summer pulls people to the coast, and winter opens up the desert.
Top Places to Visit in Spring and Fall
Spring and fall are the best times to hit Texas’s big cities and outdoor spots.
Austin is especially great in these seasons, with temps in the 60s and 70s—perfect for checking out South by Southwest or catching live music outside.
San Antonio comes alive in spring and fall.
The River Walk is actually pleasant for strolling, and you can explore the historic missions without melting.
Dallas and Houston both show off their best weather now.
It’s a great time for museums, parks, and eating outside.
The Texas Hill Country is stunning in spring, when wildflowers—especially bluebonnets—cover the fields from March through May.
It’s a dream for scenic drives and photos.
Big Bend National Park is only really comfortable in fall or spring.
In summer, it’s just way too hot for hiking or camping.
Best Summer and Winter Destinations
If you’re visiting in summer, the coast is the place to be.
Corpus Christi has beaches, water sports, and the Texas State Aquarium, which all beat the inland heat.
Padre Island is the top spot for summer beaches.
The Gulf stays warm for swimming, and ocean breezes help with the heat.
Galveston is a fun summer pick, with its historic district and beach scene.
Being on the island keeps things a bit cooler than inland.
Winter is when West Texas really opens up.
Big Bend National Park becomes comfortable for hiking, with daytime temps in the 60s and 70s.
El Paso is another good winter option.
You’ll get mild weather for exploring the Franklin Mountains and the desert.
Winter also makes South Texas cities like McAllen and Brownsville popular for warm-weather escapes.
Regional Highlights: West Texas and the Coast
West Texas really comes alive during the cooler months. Desert hiking actually feels doable then.
Big Bend National Park shows off some of Texas’s most jaw-dropping landscapes. You’ll want to visit between November and March for the best experience.
The Guadalupe Mountains offer up the state’s highest peaks. If you want to catch the fall colors, October and November are your best bet.
Hiking here in summer? Honestly, it gets dangerously hot.
Corpus Christi and the coastal bend keep things interesting year-round. Summer, though, is when the beaches really shine.
Fishing, birding, and water sports are big draws when the temps climb.
The Gulf Coast from Houston to Brownsville changes with the seasons. In summer, everyone flocks to the beaches, but winter brings in flocks of migrating birds—birders love it.
Padre Island National Seashore protects the world’s longest stretch of undeveloped barrier island. Summer means warm Gulf waters, but spring and fall are better for camping and hiking those windy dunes.
Texas Festivals and Events by Season
Texas packs the calendar with major festivals all year. Spring delivers big names like South by Southwest and the Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo. Fall rolls in with the State Fair of Texas and a wave of music festivals.
Major Spring Festivals
Spring just feels right for Texas’s biggest events. Mild temps invite everyone outside for outdoor gatherings.
South by Southwest turns Austin into a global hotspot every March. There’s music, film, and tech—plus thousands of visitors and nonstop performances.
The Houston Livestock Show and Rodeo runs late February through March. It’s the world’s largest livestock exhibition and rodeo, with three weeks of competitions and big-name concerts.
Austin’s music scene really kicks into gear beyond SXSW. You’ll find blues, country, and alternative events all over the city, and the 60-75°F weather makes it even better.
Texas wildflower season peaks in March and April. The Hill Country hosts wildflower festivals, with scenic drives, photo ops, and plenty of local art and crafts.
Summer and Fall Events
Summer’s heat drives most events indoors. Fall, though, brings cooler weather and a flood of outdoor festivals.
The State Fair of Texas takes over Dallas for 24 days in September and October. It’s one of the biggest state fairs in the country.
Austin City Limits Music Festival fills two weekends in October. Eight stages, over 130 artists—there’s something for everyone. Cooler weather makes this outdoor festival a lot more enjoyable.
September through November feels just right for wine festivals in Texas Hill Country. Vineyard tours and tastings are best when it’s in the 70s.
Fall also brings harvest festivals that celebrate Texas agriculture. Pumpkin patches, apple orchards, and crisp air make it a great time to be outside.
Winter Celebrations and Attractions
Winter stays pretty mild in Texas, so people enjoy indoor cultural events and holiday celebrations.
The Fort Worth Stock Show and Rodeo runs from mid-January to early February. It’s a mix of livestock shows, rodeo competitions, and concerts.
Holiday light displays pop up everywhere across Texas in December and January. San Antonio’s River Walk glows with millions of lights, and Austin and Dallas put on elaborate holiday markets.
With winter temps averaging 50-65°F, you can actually enjoy outdoor activities that would be way too cold up north. Many festivals set up outdoor markets and cultural events to take advantage.
Museums and cultural spots across Texas host special exhibitions in the winter. If you’re looking for indoor entertainment when it’s chilly, there’s plenty to do.
Pro Tips for Planning Your Texas Trip
Weather has a huge impact on what you can do and what you should pack. If you know the temperature extremes and seasonal patterns, you’ll get way more out of your trip.
How Weather Impacts Activities and Attractions
Summer heat often climbs above 100°F, so stick to outdoor stuff early or late in the day. During the hottest afternoons, it’s honestly better to hit museums or shopping centers.
March to May brings perfect spring weather for hiking, festivals, and outdoor concerts. Parks and events are at their best with those mild temps.
Seasonal Activity Planning:
- Spring (March-May): Wildflower viewing, outdoor festivals, hiking
- Summer (June-August): Indoor attractions, water parks, early morning activities
- Fall (September-November): Outdoor sports, camping, city exploration
- Winter (December-February): Holiday events, indoor dining, mild outdoor activities
Rainy spells in early spring and fall can shut down outdoor events. If you’re headed to the coast, don’t forget hurricane season runs June through November, and storms can close attractions or mess with travel plans.
Packing and Travel Preparation Advice
You never really know what Texas weather will throw at you. Temperatures can swing wildly, so you’ll want to layer up, no matter the season.
Texas winters sometimes dip to 40°F, then bounce back to 70°F just hours later. It’s honestly a bit unpredictable.
Essential Items by Season:
- Summer: Grab sunscreen, a wide-brimmed hat, cooling towels, and extra water. The sun doesn’t mess around.
- Spring/Fall: Bring a light jacket and some rain gear. Comfortable walking shoes are a must.
- Winter: Pack warm layers, maybe a light jacket, and definitely waterproof shoes. You’ll thank yourself later.
Don’t skip the sunscreen, even in winter. The UV exposure here can surprise you.
I’d suggest keeping a reliable weather app handy, too. Texas weather likes to change its mind fast, and storms can pop up out of nowhere.
If you’re renting a car, look for heat-resistant tires in the summer. Trust me, air conditioning isn’t just nice—it’s basically required when you’re driving between far-flung Texas spots.