How Big is Texas

Diann Bayes
  • 5.0 (1)
  • PLACES & TRAVEL

I’m Diann, a proud fifth-generation Texan with a passion for exploring every corner of the Lone Star State. I’ve visited all 254 counties (yes, really!) and even drove the entire Texas perimeter in 2020. Join me as I share my favorite places, unforgettable adventures, and the fascinating people I meet along the way. This podcast is all about celebrating Texas heritage, big flavors, big stories, and the endless roads that make this state legendary. Buckle up—let’s hit the road, Texas style!

  1. JAN 15

    Episode 29: Hat's Off to Garland - Cowboy Hat Capital of Texas

    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.

    9 min

  2. 12/29/2025

    Episode 28 - My 2025 Road Trip Highlights in Texas

    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.

    15 min

  3. 11/09/2025

    Episode 27 - A Texas Thanksgiving: Brown Food, Sweet Tea, and Family Memories

    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.

    11 min

  4. 10/09/2025

    Episode 26 - Visiting All 254 Texas Counties: My Lone Star Journey

    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.

    8 min

  5. 09/22/2025

    Episode 25 - The Magic of Fall in the Lone Star State

    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.

    12 min

  6. 09/01/2025

    Episode 24 - Q&A with Diann: My Favorite Memories Growing Up in Texas and Memories Made Across the State

    #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.

    16 min

  7. 08/04/2025

    Episode 23 - Unveiling the Charm of the Texas Panhandle

    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.

    18 min

  8. 07/20/2025

    Episode 22 - Experiencing Buc-ee's: The Texas Mega Convenience Store

    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.

    14 min
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About

I’m Diann, a proud fifth-generation Texan with a passion for exploring every corner of the Lone Star State. I’ve visited all 254 counties (yes, really!) and even drove the entire Texas perimeter in 2020. Join me as I share my favorite places, unforgettable adventures, and the fascinating people I meet along the way. This podcast is all about celebrating Texas heritage, big flavors, big stories, and the endless roads that make this state legendary. Buckle up—let’s hit the road, Texas style!

Information

  • Creator
    Diann Bayes
  • Years Active
    2025 - 2026
  • Episodes
    29
  • Rating
    Clean
  • Copyright
    © Diann Bayes
  • Show Website
    How Big is Texas