Looking for the quintessential Texas experience? Then head to the official Rodeo Capital of Texas in Mesquite (14 miles east of Dallas, where you can witness the thrills and spills of the Mesquite Championship Rodeo every Friday and Saturday night throughout the summer. Since 1958, the rodeo has been drawing in fans from all over the world-- and for good reason: From steer wrestling and barrel racing to bull riding and mutton busting, there's no shortage of non-stop, family-friendly action. And it's not only the activity on the dirt that keeps crowds entertained, there's also a posse of other attractions to enjoy, including everything from headliner concerts and laser shows to face painting, pony rides, petting zoos and even taking a spin on a mechanical bull. As well, be sure to keep an eye out for the hip hop rodeo (usually in the spring), which delivers all the traditional rodeo excitement mixed in with the sounds of hip hop, R&B, blues and more. Tickets are available through Ticketmaster, but you can avoid service charges by purchasing them directly at the box office.