How Big is Texas

Diann Bayes, founder of How Big Is Texas, drives Route 66 on its 100th anniversary with her Aunt Ruth, covering nearly 2,500 miles from Wilmington, Illinois, to San Bernardino, California, and more miles to and from the start and finish line.

The trip highlights changing landscapes and quirky roadside stops across Illinois, Missouri, Kansas, Oklahoma, Texas, New Mexico, Arizona, and California and features historic sites, classic diners, the Grand Canyon, and the enduring spirit of the Mother Road and its century-long history.

Join Diann Bayes, Founder and #1 Quester at How Big Is Texas, in Garland, Texas, to discover why the city is called the Cowboy Hat Capital of Texas, featuring the biggest cowboy hat and an on-street interview with the cultural arts director.

Hear the history from Mexican vaqueros to John B. Stetson, and learn about local manufacturers like Hatco, Dorfman Milano, and Master Hatters that make millions of hats a year.

Explore photo spots, local heritage, and how Garland’s working hats have served everyone from ranchers to presidents and country stars.

This episode is sponsored by Visit Garland.

Join Diann Bayes, founder of How Big Is Texas, as she recaps her 2025 adventures across the Lone Star State. From completing a quest to visit all 254 Texas counties and exploring state parks to seaside getaways in Rockport, this episode highlights the best places, foods, and festivals she discovered.

Hear about standout moments like the legendary chicken-fried steak at Mary’s Cafe in Strawn, a chocolate tasting in Cleburne, the Big Tree at Goose Island State Park, the Heritage Syrup Festival in Henderson, and Diann’s ongoing travel goals for the year ahead.

Host Diann Bayes of How Big is Texas shares warm memories of Texas Thanksgiving traditions, family recipes, and classic holiday dishes—from cornbread dressing and questionable salads to pecan pie and cranberry sauce.

She reflects on the colors, flavors, and quirks of Texas holiday tables, recounts nostalgic family anecdotes, and invites listeners to celebrate their own seasonal favorites.

Host Diann Bayes celebrates completing her quest to visit all 254 Texas counties after previously driving the 3,331-mile perimeter of the state. She recalls road trips, food trails, mispronounced towns, and Texas Heritage Trail explorations that shaped her journey.

Now tracking state parks with a scratch-off map (75 of 89 visited), Diann reflects on living life fully, shares inspiration to "live your dash," and invites listeners to join her in more Lone Star adventures.

Join Diann Bayes as she shares her favorite Fall adventures, highlighting the best seasonal sights and activities across the state — from East Texas foliage and Bigfoot lore to Panhandle sunsets, Hill Country drives, Gulf Coast beaches, and the Big Bend’s wide-open solitude.

Discover fall festivals, birding hotspots, chili cook-offs, harvest events, and local food traditions, plus tips for planning the perfect Texas road trip this autumn.

#1 Quester at How Big Is Texas, Diann Bayes shares her memories of growing up across East Texas and the Panhandle, family holiday traditions, and the flavors of small-town life.

She recounts her 3,300-mile perimeter road trip, discovering the Texas mountains, winter birding in the Rio Grande Valley, visits to the Alamo, and why Texas will always feel like home. Big miles. Big tastes. Big adventures.

Join Diann Bayes as she takes you on a captivating journey through the Texas Panhandle, unraveling the untold stories and hidden gems of this often-overlooked region. From the awe-inspiring Palo Duro Canyon to the charm of Route 66, discover the rich history and unique attractions that make the Panhandle a must-visit destination. Delight in detailed anecdotes, quirky local legends, and learn why Diann holds such a passion for this vast and diverse landscape.

Join Diann Bayes on an epic journey through Texas as she explores the massive and iconic Buc-ee's convenience stores. With a unique blend of big miles, big tastes, and big adventures, Diann invites listeners to experience the magic of Buc-ee's, from its humble beginnings in Lake Jackson to its colossal 75,000 square-foot location in Luling.

This episode takes you along for the ride as Diann and her friend Darla embark on a quest to visit every Buc-ee's in Texas over three and a half days, sampling a variety of mouth-watering foods and discovering the extensive selection of gifts and goods available at these over-the-top fun factories.

Whether you're a Buc-ee's novice or a seasoned fan, you'll learn why this Texas treasure is a must-visit destination, promising clean facilities, friendly staff, and an unforgettable shopping experience.

In this special episode of "How Big Is Texas," Diann Bayes focuses on the aftermath of the devastating floods that swept through Texas over the July 4th weekend. As homes and communities were ravaged by rising waters, Texans banded together in a spirit of resilience and support for those affected.

Bayes shares personal accounts of past flooding events, illustrating the recurrent nature of such disasters in Central Texas. While highlighting the heroism and courage of rescue teams, she encourages listeners from near and far to contribute to recovery efforts.

This episode serves as a somber reminder of nature's power and the humanity that shines through in times of crisis.