Outdoor vacations don't always have to be about hiking, kayaking and nature walks. One of the most exciting places to visit in Texas is Alamo Village, which is located just north of Brackettville and Fort Clark Springs in southwest Texas. Not only will you get a taste of history, but you will also get an up-close-and-personal view of a real movie set.

Alamo Village was first created as the set for John Wayne's 1960 film The Alamo, but the village still exists today as a tourist attraction for visitors to Brackettville. It is home to the John Wayne Western Museum, which is perfect for those who enjoy learning about the Duke and his films, but it is also a great way to enjoy the outdoors.

First, gunfights take place in the streets and buildings of Alamo Village at least four times a day in the summer. You'll find live music in the Saloon, Mexican food and cheeseburgers in the Cantina and plenty of gifts for friends and family at the Indian Post. Once you've had your fill of the indoor attractions, head outside where the real fun begins.

Alamo Village is set up like an actual old-west town, complete with cattle, horses, dogs, cats and even chickens. Trail rides and cattle drives are scheduled throughout the year, giving visitors a taste of what life was like so many years ago. They even have sheep-shearing and cattle-branding demonstrations by real cowboys.

Horseback riding is available all day long in Alamo Village, sometimes on the trail and sometimes in the village, depending on what visitors want. And you can't miss the comedy gunfights that occur sporadically throughout the day - they might be loud, but they're lots of fun to watch, and you might even get to pick up a souvenir.

Alamo Village also hosts annual cowboy races, which aren't much like the races you see at your local track but are a hoot nonetheless. The first place winner gets a custom trophy saddle, so don't miss out if you know how to sit a horse.

Visiting Alamo Village costs $10.75 for each adult and $5 for each child (kids under 5 enter free). When you visit, make sure you bring a pair of snazzy cowboy boots so you'll fit in. The Durango Ranch boots are a comfortable, authentic choice.