My dad lives in Texas so have been there quite a few times. It's not the best state for tourism....space centre is great and there is a few old war ships but that's about it.
Either way New Orleans is an awesome place and a must do city. Make sure you you go down the Mississippi on a steam boat, here you get all the views of the city and abandoned flooded areas.
http://www.steamboatnatchez.com/
Whilst in New Orleans you can go tubing down the river, such a great activity in the heat. One tube each and then a separate one for the beer
http://www.myneworle...w-Tube-Article/