While the larger rodeos in Texas, like Rodeo Austin or the Houston Livestock Show & Rodeo, are well-known, some stand-out rodeos in smaller towns with years of and history are overlooked.

Now’s the time to start planning your quick summer weekend road trip to one of these small-town rodeos filled with local pride and Texas tradition. After the main event, kick back and relax at some of the hidden gems we’ve included in each town. They’re sure to round off your trip with some true Texan hospitality.

Big Spring Rodeo | Big Spring, Texas (June 15 – 17)

Watch the Rodeo: At the 84th Annual Big Spring Cowboy Reunion and Rodeo the Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association will tout its finest. There’s also a parade with floats, tractors, motorcycles and cars. This year’s rodeo also features a can’t-miss performance by Texas-born Pat Green.

Kick Up Your Boots: While you’re in town, stay at Hotel Settles. After recently undergoing a $30 million renovation, Hotel Settles reopened in 2012 and evokes Southern charm honoring the building’s original elegance. Kick back and enjoy standout dishes at Settles Grill restaurant while you visit; their West Texas comfort cuisine has bragging rights on neighboring dining destinations!

West of the Pecos Rodeo | Pecos, Texas (June 27 – 30)

Watch the Rodeo: Dating back to July 4, 1883, Pecos is home to the world’s first rodeo. Since then, the rodeo has showcased the best cowboys and brought together a tightly knit community for a fun-filled week of Wild West festivities at Buck Jackson Arena each year. It has been named one of the five best large outdoor rodeos in the country.

Kick Up Your Boots: No Texas trip is complete without some great barbecue. Stop by Pody’s BBQ, right next to the rodeo grounds and enjoy some Texas pit barbecue paired with some banana pudding and sweet tea. Yeehaw!

Marble Falls Rodeo | Marble Falls, Texas (July 20 – 22)

Watch The Rodeo: Since 1956, the Marble Falls Rodeo has taken place on the third weekend in July and comes complete with a rodeo parade on Sunday. All proceeds not needed for the upkeep of the arena are donated to different charities and scholarships for local students.

Kick Up Your Boots: A can’t miss dining experience awaits you at the Blue Bonnet Cafe. Since 1929, this restaurant has been a guest and local favorite, offering fresh, buttery rolls and giant slices of homemade pies.

Cover photo: West of the Pecos Rodeo. Courtesy photo