places to visit in northeast texas

17 Epic East Texas Towns + Cities to Visit

Featuring the beautiful Piney Woods, unique landscapes like Caddo Lake, and dreamy small towns, it’s safe to say that there are plenty of beautiful places to visit in East Texas!

While non-Texans may think first of the wide-open plains or the charm of the Hill Country when they think of Texans, lifelong Texans know that the beautiful cities and towns in East Texas may just be the state’s best-kept secret.

Here are the best East Texas towns and cities to visit on your next road trip or weekend getaway!

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Beautiful Cities + Towns in East Texas

Nacogdoches.

Nestled just in the heart of the East Texas region, Nacogdoches, Texas has some of the most unique and authentic experiences. 

Known as the Oldest Town in Texas, it is home to many landmarks such as Stephen F. Austin University, and close to others like a Caddo Mounds.

A local favorite attraction is the Azaela Gardens, winding paths and hedges that are full of vibrant, blooming flowers.

Take a stroll down the city’s famous downtown strip for a fun day of shopping and dining, or stroll down to the town’s center to check out their Charles Bright Visitors Center.

Full of art, culture, and music, the town of Brenham, Texas is sure to check everything off your next trip’s itinerary.

Stop by the Unity Theatre to see a play conducted by some of the town’s finest actors and actresses, or check out one of their many art galleries.

After visiting Old Baylor Park, grab a ride at Magnolia Sun Rentals to explore the city in a most unique fashion. 

And, of course, no trip to Brenham would be complete without a visit to Blue Bell Creameries –you can even stop by their on-site parlor for a scoop or two.

The city of Brenham is constantly holding live music and events year-round, so be sure to stay up to date on all that is occurring during your next trip!

Situated on the eastern edge of Texas, Marshall has everything from a beautiful downtown to one-of-a-kind events to appreciate and explore. 

Start off with a spooky Ghost Hunt at the Gregg County Historical Museum, or hop on a boat for one of Captain Ron’s Swamp Tours.

While taking in this enchanting East Texas town, be sure to stop by Bear Creek Smokehouse for some authentic barbeque. 

If visiting during the holiday season, be sure to include the city’s Wonderland of Lights on your bucket list–the festival makes Marshall one of the best Christmas towns in Texas !

The quaint town of Jefferson, Texas is one of the oldest and more historic towns in the Lone Star State. 

Full of unique museums and landmarks, Jefferson is the perfect destination for any history buff or outdoor lover (Jefferson is located right next door to Caddo Lake State Park ). 

Take a guided tour of The Grove district or the Jefferson Railway, home to the famous Jay Gould’s railroad car.

Be sure to check out Old Mill Antiques or the Jefferson Antique Mall for some of the best vintage finds!

Jefferson is also famous for its delightful bed and breakfasts that are housed in historic homes, so be sure to check in for a night or two when exploring the best towns in East Texas.

There may be no better town in East Texas to use as a base for exploring the Pineywoods than Palestine, Texas!

Soak up the sun during a day well spent at Lake Palestine, or take a bike ride through Davey Dogwood Park.

For a walk through time, take a tour of the centuries-old Old Town Palestine to observe the beginnings of this beautiful town.

From locally-sponsored plays at the Texas Theatre to homegrown cuisine, the town’s Main Street District has just about everything to check off on your must-see list. 

Finally, round off your visit by enjoying the main attraction: a ride on the historic Texas State Railroad!

Crockett, Texas has some of the most unique attractions that are authentic to East Texas culture.

Take a guided tour through the Houston County Museum to witness the history of both the town and state or stroll through the famous Caddo Mounds just outside of town.

The David Crockett Spring, located where the Texas hero once camped, exhibits some of the town’s most historical landmarks.

Have a picnic at Mission Tejas State Park, or grab a bite to eat and listen to some live music at Camp Street Cafe. 

With its wide variety of art and its famous World of Wonders, the East Texas town of Longview has something to explore for the whole family. 

The first stop is the amazing World of Wonders, a museum that will truly take you back in time. 

Next, visit the town’s Veterans Plaza to see monuments and replicas commemorating all those who served in the Vietnam War.

Rent a kayak and paddle through Martin Creek Lake, or hike through the city’s Paul Boorman Trail.

Stop by Pietro’s for some delicious Italian cuisine, or savor your sweet tooth at La Cabane de Dessert.

Finally, savor one of the most unique attractions in East Texas and take a hot air balloon flight!

It may even convince you to return to East Texas for the Great Texas Balloon Race , which is held in Longview each year.

The city of Huntsville is home to the Sam Houston State Bearcats and some East Texas great attractions!

After stopping by the larger-than-life Sam Houston statue, take a walk through the miles of winding trails in the Sam Houston National Forest or Huntsville State Park .

After your stroll, cool off at the Blue Lagoon with some scuba diving and snorkeling adventures.

When night rolls around, get a table at Tesha Vineyard or catch a show at the Old Town Theatre. 

Rather than spending time on a nine-hour flight to Europe, take a trip to Paris, Texas for some one-of-a-kind fun!

Of course, no trip would be complete without a stop in the town square to see the gorgeous fountains and Paris, Texas Eiffel Tower. 

Float down the river with River Rats Kayaks, or grab a bite to eat at Buffalo Joe’s pub. 

To top off your day, visit Paris Vineyards Winery on the Square to experience the town’s center with some yummy eats and drinks!

As one of the bigger cities in East Texas, Tyler makes for a fun weekend getaway in the Piney Woods.

The Tyler Rose Garden and Azalea Residential Historic District are covered head to toe in luscious flowers, and the rose garden is the largest municipal rose garden in the USA!

After a tour through Tyler’s Aviation Museum, cool off with an afternoon well spent at the beautiful Lake Tyler just minutes from the town square. 

For history buffs and tourists alike, a visit to the Goodman-Le Grand House and Discover Science Museum are fantastic experiences.

Bryan-College Station

Whether you’re attending a Texas Aggie Football game, or just looking for some of the best antiques in East Texas, Bryan-College Station is the perfect destination for your next East Texas road trip. 

A day walking through the Bryan Downtown District is a must, with its stone-paved streets lining block after block of antique shops and authentic eats. 

Spend a day at Wolf Pen Creek Park playing disk golf, laying out a picnic, or catching a concert at their outdoor amphitheater. 

After a day spent out and about, unwind with some of the best pizza around at Gumby’s or RX Pizza.

Canton, Texas has just the perfect shops and experiences for your next trip to East Texas!

Explore the Gervasi Vineyard for some authentic tastes at their wine gardens and bistro. 

If you’re planning a long weekend getaway, a stop by Canton’s First Monday Market Days will give you a true taste of a large-scale East Texas antique fair. 

Known for its beautiful lake and Texas Country Music history, the beautiful town of Conroe, Texas is a diamond of East Texas.

Grab a basket at Moorhead’s Blueberry Farm to hand-pick your own fresh fruits straight from the vine.

The Acre Wood theme park promises fun for the whole family, with acres full of playgrounds, mini-golfing, and even ice skating.

To quench your thirst, visit the locally owned B-52 Brewing Company or Southern Star Brewing to enjoy a fresh brew in the middle of the East Texas outdoors.

With its interesting attractions and truly East Texas terrain, enjoy a wonderful trip to Beaumont, located just west of the Louisiana border!

The Boomtown Museum exhibits some of the city’s first-built shops and businesses, and the Clifton Steamboat Museum will truly make you feel like you’re walking on water.

Visit Colorado Canyon for some top-notch mini-golf, or stroll through Beaumont’s Botanical Gardens for some picture-perfect moments.

Local actors are always putting on fantastic plays at the Jefferson Theatre, so be sure to check their listings the next time you are planning your trip!

Beaumont also happens to be home to one of the quirkiest roadside attractions in Texas : a gigantic Dalmatian-painted fire hydrant!

As a true Piney Woods town, Lufkin, Texas is the perfect destination for any nature lover.

Spend a day fishing and swimming at Ratcliff Lake, or take your mountain bike through the winding paths of the Azalea Trails and Lost Arrow Loop.

If you are looking for an indoor adventure, the Naranjo Museum of Natural History as well as the Texas Forestry Museum are sure to impress.

Lufkin is most commonly known for its nature activities, but be sure to check out one of their authentic antique stores on your next visit.

As a beautiful city surrounded by its winding lake and rivers, the city of Livingston is the perfect relaxing getaway.

Livingston State Park is home to one of the most gorgeous lakes in East Texas.

After spending a day relaxing on the lake’s shoreline, grab your friends and family and take some pictures on the lake’s dam.

With the city’s German descent, there are numerous castles to go tour, take pictures, or even stay the night in!

Daingerfield

The popular Daingerfield State Park is only a small portion of what to see in Daingerfield, one of the best towns in East Texas to visit.

While you’re there, grab some popcorn and catch a show at the Morris Theatre.

Visit Greer Farm and fill up a basket of fresh blueberries, strawberries, and more-perfect snacks for your trip home.

After a long day out on the town, try some authentic, East Texas barbecue (it’s not like the Hill Country stuff !) at Outlaws.

Map of East Texas Towns to Visit

2 thoughts on “17 Epic East Texas Towns + Cities to Visit”

Very well done & I’m a proud resident of Tyler.

What?! And you didn’t include Texarkana, Texas/Arkansas, where two growing towns share the state line and host three higher education facilities, where five major highways and railways meet, along with the historic trail of Trammel’s Trace, and then a few miles south on Highway 77 east of Atlanta (named by settlers from Atlanta, GA) where the Ark-La-Tex converges on one lone medallion/marker? All kinds of treasures here!

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20 best things to do to experience the uniqueness of east texas.

East Texas is a unique and diverse region, with a rich history and culture that sets it apart from the rest of the state. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, there are plenty of things to do and see in East Texas that will give you a true taste of its one-of-a-kind charm. Here are the 20 best things to do to experience the uniqueness of East Texas.

20 Best Things to Do in East Texas

• Explore the Texas State Railroad . This historic train takes you through the piney woods of East Texas, offering a unique perspective on the region’s natural beauty.
• Visit the historic city of Nacogdoches . Established in 1779, this city is the oldest town in Texas and is known for its rich history and architecture.
• Take a trip to the Tyler Rose Garden . This beautiful garden features over 35,000 rose bushes, making it one of the largest rose gardens in the world.
• Eat frog legs at Big Pines Lodge . This local restaurant overlooks Big Cypress Bayou, with plenty of outdoor seating to enjoy the view. The menu offers unique East Texas foods, like frog legs.
• Learn about the history of oil at the East Texas Oil Museum . Located in Kilgore, this museum tells the story of the oil boom that shaped the region’s economy and culture.
• Visit Caddo Lake State Park . Located on the Texas-Louisiana border, this state park is home to the largest natural lake in Texas and offers scenic views, boating, fishing, and camping.
• Attend a show at the Cowan Center . This state-of-the-art performing arts center in Tyler hosts a variety of events, including concerts, plays, and dance performances.
• Take a hike in the Davy Crockett National Forest . This forest offers miles of scenic trails and opportunities for camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing.
• Visit the historic town of Jefferson . This town is known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, as well as its charming downtown district.
• Explore the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari . This unique attraction allows you to drive through a wildlife preserve while seeing exotic animals up close.
• Visit the Texas Prison Museum . Located in Huntsville, this museum offers a fascinating look at the history of Texas prisons and the criminal justice system. Although it might not be an activity to share with younger grandkids, this museum experience definitely appeals to adult history buffs.
• Go fishing at Lake Fork Reservoir . This popular fishing spot is known for its large bass and scenic beauty.
• Attend the Tyler Rose Festival . Held during the fall, this festival offers a variety of events, including a queen’s coronation and the annual Rose Parade.
• Explore the historic town of Palestine . This town is known for its Victorian architecture as well as scenic railroad tours.
• Visit the store at Rattlesnake Ranch Pecans. Located in Crockett, this store offers a nostalgic country vibe, but you’ll also find a fantastic selection of Texas pecan products.
• Attend a concert at the historic Liberty Hall . This venue in Tyler hosts a variety of live music performances and other events.
• Go bird-watching at the Big Thicket National Preserve . This preserve is home to a diverse range of bird species, including the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker.
• Take a tour of the Blue Bell Creameries . Located in Brenham, this creamery offers tours of its production facilities and free samples of its famous ice cream.
• Eat barbecue at Bodacious Bar-B-Q in Marshall . Another way to experience the uniqueness of East Texas is to try something saucy from this local barbecue joint. When it’s time to head home, be sure to purchase a shaker of their flavorful bean spice to take with you.
• Visit the Rusk County Cowboy Church . This unique church in Henderson offers services in a Western-style setting, while hosting rodeos and other events throughout the year.

Start Planning

In conclusion, East Texas is a truly unique region that offers a wide range of activities and attractions for visitors and residents alike.

So start planning your adventures soon!

Because every Texan should experience the uniqueness of East Texas at least once.

What’s your favorite thing to do in East Texas?

PS: Need more inspiration or ideas for adventuring around Texas? Check out The Ultimate Texas Bucket List series here.

About Brenda McDearmon

Hi, there! My name is Brenda McDearmon. I created this blog for the sole purpose of encouraging a life filled with everyday intentional adventure, whether that's trying a new restaurant, enjoying a Texas day trip, or being adventurously inspired in a spiritual way. Thanks so much for stopping by! Be sure and sign up to receive my weekly newsletter. It's one of my favorite ways to connect with my readers!

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21 Awesome Things To Do in East Texas You’ll Love

By: Author Amanda OBrien

Posted on Last updated: 16/02/2024

East Texas is one of the most charming places in the Lone Star State . Most of this region is nestled amongst picturesque piney woods. In addition to the abundance of towering trees and natural beauty, there are plenty of things to do in East Texas.

A few of the must-visit towns in the area include Tyler, Marshall, Jefferson, Nacogdoches, Athens, Palestine, and Henderson. Here you can enjoy various indoor and outdoor activities, such as thrilling train rides and exploring famous landmarks and historic homes.

While East Texas offers many exhilarating experiences, some should not go unmissed. Here are 21 of the best activities to take part in on your next adventure.

21 Awesome Things to do in East Texas

Texas is one of the most beautiful U.S. states and an ideal destination for an unwinding escape. Below is a list of the top East Texas attractions to add to your bucket list.

1. Wander Through the Tyler Rose Garden

The city of Tyler is renowned as the unofficial Rose Capital of the Nation. It is home to more than 38,000 rose bushes and over 500 varieties of roses.

This scenic spot is perfect for a peaceful outing with awe-inspiring views. As such, people frequently rent out the Rose Garden and Rose Garden Centre for special events, including weddings and meetings.

Additionally, there is a gift shop and museum on the property. The Tyler Rose Museum is a must-visit attraction that displays stunning preserves and stories of the local rose-growing industry.

The garden is open year-round. But, it’s best enjoyed in early spring as well as late September and October when the roses are in full bloom. If you’re visiting during October, be sure to check out the Texas Rose Festival that takes place in the third week of the month.

2. Visit New York Texas Zipline Adventures

If you’re an adventure seeker looking for panoramic views of East Texas, the New York Texas Zipline Adventure is the place to be. It is located in the New York Community, just a 15 to 20-minute drive east of Athens.

It’s a great way to explore the Piney Woods region as you swing from tree-tops and learn more about the local ecology. The zipline tours take you along six or nine zipline tracks, where you’ll have epic views of the forested area.

This adventure lasts around one and a half to two hours. After the thrilling experience, there are plenty of scenic spaces where you can relax and enjoy a picnic.

Note: As this is a popular spot, it’s best to make a reservation a few days in advance.

3. Kayak at Caddo Lake State Park

Caddo Lake State Park is an East Texas treasure situated in the Piney Woods ecoregion in Karnack. Here you can participate in several activities, such as picnicking, boating, hiking, and fishing.

When fishing in the mighty Caddo Lake, there are more than 70 fish species to discover. Another way to take in the beauty of this natural lake is by canoeing or kayaking. You’ll find more than 80 kilometres (50 miles) of paddling trails with spectacular sights at every twist and turn.

You can bring your own kayak set and equipment or rent a canoe at the park. If you’d like to extend your visit, there are 46 campsites for a splendid stay. Additionally, you can rent a cosy cabin with options ranging from two to six-person cabins.

Note: As there are alligators in the park, be sure to follow the necessary safety tips.

4. Fishing in Lake Athens

Lake Athens is another excellent fishing spot in East Texas. This 1,799-acre reservoir has a maximum depth of 15 metres (50 feet) and supports several fish species. The largemouth bass is the most popular species that attracts numerous eager anglers to this stunning location.

There are also great opportunities to catch sunfish and white bass. Additionally, you’ll find decent-sized crappies, but they are fewer in numbers. And if you’re lucky, you might reel in a catfish.

Near the lake, there is an RV park and a marina with a bait shop and general store for any fishing kit needs. For more fun activities, you can head to the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center on the north shore of the lake. Here you’ll encounter a magnificent fish display with aquariums, natural pools, and hands-on exhibits.

5. Camping at Daingerfield State Park

If you’re looking for a relaxing escape surrounded by nature, a few days at Daingerfield State Park would be perfect. Nestled in Morris County, the park is filled with natural beauty and towering pines, oak, sweetgum, dogwoods, and redbuds.

At the park, there are two types of campsites: full hookup sites and tent-only sites. The full-hookup sites are located in the Big Pine area. It includes several amenities, such as picnic tables, water hookup, sewer hookup, electric hookup, and nearby restrooms.

The tent-only sites are situated in the Cedar Ridge area. Here you’ll have amenities such as an outdoor grill, picnic table, fire ring, water, tent pad, and nearby restrooms.

If you want more comfort on your overnight stay, you can reserve a historic cabin for a rustic-luxury experience. All cabins are well-equipped and feature a bathroom and kitchen.

There are several land and water activities for an enjoyable trip. You can explore the massive lake with activities such as boating, paddling, swimming, and fishing. On land, you can go birding, picnicking, and hiking.

6. Explore the World’s Richest Acre

The East Texas region is a significant contributor to the oil production in the state. As such, your trip would be incomplete without setting foot in the World’s Richest Acre in Kilgore.

In the early 1930s, downtown Kilgore supported the world’s greatest concentration of oil wells and produced over 2.5 million barrels of oil. Unfortunately, the oil derricks were dismantled in the early 1960s.

But, a trip to the World’s Richest Acre is certainly worthwhile as you can tour the historic area and admire the steel replicas. Other nearby points of interest include the Kilgore College East Texas Museum and the Texas Museum of Broadcasting.

7. Take a Ride on the Historic Jefferson Railway

Founded in the early 1840s, Jefferson is a pre-civil war town located in northeastern Texas. Here you’ll come across awe-inspiring historical architecture and top attractions, including the Historic Jefferson Railway.

At the Historic Jefferson Railway, you can travel through the picturesque piney woods and wetlands along the Big Cypress Bayou. A trip to this 3-foot narrow-gauge railway offers a memorable adventure for all. For more epic experiences in this quaint town, head to the Jefferson Historical Museum, the Grove, and the Museum of Measurement and Time.

8. Tour the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame

If you’re a country music fan, a trip to the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame should definitely be an item on your East Texas itinerary. Situated in Carthage, the Texas Country Music Hall of Fame honours Texans who have made remarkable contributions to country music.

It was established in 1998 and has since become a popular location for music enthusiasts. This unique museum and performance space has also hosted several festivals and events, such as the John Ritter Tribute Showcase and Classic Country Music Festival.

9. Visit the Big Thicket National Preserve

The Big Thicket is a heavily forested area in Kountze, East Texas . It is home to a variety of plants and animal species. Amongst the massive cypress trees, you might spot white-tailed deer, coyotes, bobcats, armadillos, snakes, and alligators.

Almost 300 bird species have been documented in the area. However, birdwatching can be challenging at times as a result of the dense vegetation.

Popular birding spots in Big Thicket include the Sundew Trail and Kirby Nature Trail. And if you want the best bird sightings while canoeing or kayaking, take a trip down Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddle Trail.

Tip: A pair of high-quality, waterproof binoculars are great for bird watching and sightseeing from the river.

The fascinating fauna and flora here attract countless travellers each year. People also visit to enjoy various recreational activities such as hiking, mountain biking, kayaking, canoeing, fishing, and camping.

10. Enjoy a Train Tour at Texas State Railroad

Founded in 1883, the Texas State Railroad is a historic railroad that runs between Palestine and Rusk. In the past, it was used to move raw materials like timber. Today, the Texas State Railroad takes passengers on a scenic journey through the Piney Woods.

The daily train ride lasts about four hours, and there are also several different accommodations on offer. This scenic adventure is best enjoyed during the spring season when the flowers are in full bloom.

11. Follow an Azalea & Spring Flower Trail

Although East Texas is world-famous for its trees, it is also admired for its flowers. One of the most famed flowers in the region is the azalea flower . There are annual azalea trails and festivals throughout the region.

One of the most popular trails where you can enjoy sightseeing while walking past the blooming azaleas is the Tyler Azalea Trail. It is held from mid-March to April and comprises two separate routes: the Lindsey Trail and the Dobbs Trail.

Another must-visit location is the Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden. It is located at Stephen F. Austin State University in Nacogdoches. Here you’ll find more than 7,000 gorgeous azaleas and around 40 kilometres (25 miles) of azalea trails throughout the historic and residential districts in the city.

You might enjoy reading my article on the Cowboy Capital of the world, Bandera Texas .

12. Take a Trip to the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari

One of the best things to do in East Texas is visiting a wildlife and safari park, specifically the Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari. Situated in Jacksonville, this safari park offers an exhilarating outing that’s perfect for those travelling with kids.

Some of the animals you can expect to see include zebra, water buffalo, aoudad, bison, rocky mountain elk, axis deer, blackbuck, and highland cattle. At the park, you can take a self-guided drive and feed some of the animals. There are also picnic spots that are perfect for a snack break.

Note: It’s important to remain in your vehicles at all times when touring the area.

13. Visit the Cultural Capital of Texas

Founded in 1841, Marshall is best known for its well-preserved historical sites. The town is also famed for its support of the arts community. As such, it’s considered the Cultural Capital of East Texas.

There are many enjoyable things to do in Marshall, including horse-drawn buggy rides and touring historical buildings. For an unforgettable experience, be sure to visit the Michelson Museum of Art, Starr Family Home State Historic Park, and the Visual Arts Centre.

14. Explore the Historic Sites in Beaumont

Beaumont is another historical gem in East Texas. It’s located in the state’s southeastern region, just 137 kilometres (85 miles) east of Houston. For those looking for some outdoor adventures, you can participate in several activities, such as fishing, hunting, and camping.

Additionally, you can enjoy a trip to the Beaumont Botanical Gardens. If you’re intrigued by spectacular historical sites, there are a number of places in the area that are worth visiting. Some of the top attractions in Beaumont include the Texas Energy Museum, Saint Anthony Cathedral, and the Fire Museum of Texas.

15. Go to a Rodeo

Rodeos are popular throughout the state of Texas. And the eastern region is no different. One of the best rodeos to visit in East Texas is the Gladewater Rodeo.

It takes place in June and offers a thrilling, family-friendly outing. If you’re travelling with little ones, there are enjoyable activities for kids aged six years and under at the Mutton Bustin event.

16. Stroll Around Love’s Lookout Scenic Park

Love’s Lookout is one of the most magnificent rest stops in East Texas. Located in Jacksonville, the structure stands at more than 213 metres (700 feet) high and serves as a scenic park.

This picturesque destination and expansive rear terrace provide an ideal setting for photographers and travellers looking to soak up the scenic surroundings. Here you’ll find perfectly-positioned benches and tables for a pleasant picnic while enjoying the breathtaking views.

17. See the Paris Texas Eiffel Tower

Constructed in 1993, the Eiffel Tower is a must-visit landmark in the city of Paris, Texas. It is a scale model of the world-famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. The structure is less than one-tenth of that of the original.

A notable feature of this Texan attraction is the bright red cowboy hat that sits on top of the tower. Viewing this spectacular sight will not disappoint. A few other notable places to visit in Paris, Texas, include the Red River Valley Veterans Memorial and Sam Bell Maxey House State Historic Site.

18. Take a Trip to Shangri La Botanical Gardens

If you’re looking for a scenic escape, visiting this botanical garden is perfect. You’ll find Shangri La Botanical Gardens nestled in the heart of Orange in East Texas. This tranquil destination combines the beauty of the botanical gardens with an educational nature centre, providing an ideal outing for nature enthusiasts.

As you stroll along the garden paths and listen to the melodies of birds, you’ll find a variety of fragrant flowers and plants. For more exhilarating experiences in Orange, check out the Stark Museum of Art and W.H. Stark House.

19. Visit the Oldest Town in Texas

Founded in 1779, Nacogdoches is the oldest town in Texas. This quaint little town was originally a Spanish settlement. Today, it is home to several top attractions, such as the Stone Fort Museum, Millard’s Crossing Historic Village, and Ruby M. Mize Azalea Garden.

When visiting this historical gem, be sure to check out nearby attractions such as the famous Caddo Indian Mounds and Lake Sam Rayburn.

20. Learn About Tyler’s Historic Homes

In addition to the stunning rose displays, Tyler is home to eye-catching historical homes. To get a glimpse of the past, you can explore the Goodman Le-Grand Home and Museum and the McClendon House.

The Goodman Le-Grand Home and Museum was built in 1859. At this historic landmark, you are welcome to wander around on a walk-in tour. However, photograph sessions, group tours, and other activities need to be scheduled in advance.

The Bonner-Whitaker-McClendon House was built in 1879. Here you can enjoy guided tours and learn more about the town’s political and cultural history from post-civil war.

21. Walk in Helen Lee’s Daffodil Gardens

Nestled between Tyler and Gladewater, Helen Lee’s Daffodil Garden offers visitors an unforgettable experience. During February and March, you’ll find thousands of blooming daffodils and other flowers at this breathtaking location.

As you walk beside the stunning flowers, you’ll come across a number of small ponds and lakes. A trip to the garden is one of the best ways to welcome spring and enjoy the scenic surroundings in Texas.

Note: Admission to the garden is free, but donations are encouraged to help maintain the grounds.

Final Thoughts on East Texas Attractions

East Texas offers an abundance of exhilarating experiences, from viewing historical sites to admiring the spectacular landscapes.  Whether you’re looking for indoor or outdoor activities, there are plenty of ways to enjoy a day in this beautiful state.

As they say, everything is bigger in Texas. So, get ready for a fun-filled adventure. And if you’re looking for more getaway inspiration, check out this guide on sunflower fields in Texas .

I covered all of the costs associated with writing this article. However, this things to do in east Texas post includes affiliate links. That means if you click through and end up making a purchase I will receive a small commission. I wanted to make sure you were aware of this.

Amanda O’Brien is the creator and editor of The Boutique Adventurer. She has visited 80 countries and is a member of the British Guild of Travel Writers as well as the IFTWTA. She is passionate about wine had has just completed Level 3 of the WSET. Born in Australia, she lives in London.

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Discover Crane, Texas: Explore, Savor, and Enjoy!

Exploring Northeast Texas: A Journey Through Its Charms and Wonders!

Welcome to the captivating world of Northeast Texas, a place where history, nature, and culture blend beautifully to offer a plethora of engaging activities for all types of visitors. Whether you’re a history buff, nature enthusiast, or cultural explorer, this guide is packed with things to do in Northeast Texas that will make your visit unforgettable. Let’s dive into the many wonders this region has to offer!

Outdoor Explorations

Northeast Texas is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of natural attractions and activities. One of the highlights is Caddo Lake State Park, known for its enchanting bayous and sloughs, where visitors can rent canoes and immerse themselves in the serene waters. Additionally, Davy Crockett National Forest beckons with its extensive network of hiking trails and serene natural beauty. Lake Fork is a must-visit destination for anglers, renowned for its world-class bass fishing opportunities.

• Caddo Lake State Park: Ideal for canoeing and bird watching in a mesmerizing bayou setting;
• Davy Crockett National Forest: Offers miles of scenic hiking trails amidst pristine woodlands;
• Lake Fork: A premier destination for bass fishing, attracting anglers from far and wide.

Historical Landmarks

History comes alive in Northeast Texas through its rich collection of historical landmarks. Jefferson Historical Society and Museum provides a deep dive into the port city’s past, while the Starr Family Home State Historic Site in Marshall offers a glimpse into 19th-century life in Texas.

• Jefferson Historical Society and Museum: Showcasing the significance of the port city in Texas history;
• Starr Family Home State Historic Site: A beautifully preserved historic home that transports visitors to the 19th century.

Art and Culture

For those with an appreciation for art and culture, Northeast Texas has much to offer. Paris, Texas, is a hidden gem for art enthusiasts, where you can explore local creativity in various galleries. Moreover, the region hosts a variety of music festivals throughout the year, catering to diverse musical tastes.

• Gallery hopping in Paris, Texas: Discover local artistry through paintings, sculptures, and more;
• Music Festivals: Enjoy a vibrant music scene with festivals spanning jazz, blues, and various musical genres.

Educational Attractions

Northeast Texas offers a range of educational attractions that are both informative and engaging. The Northeast Texas Children’s Museum provides a perfect opportunity for families to enjoy interactive and educational experiences. Meanwhile, the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center offers insights into local aquatic life and even allows visitors to try their hand at fishing.

• Northeast Texas Children’s Museum: An interactive and educational haven for families looking for enriching experiences;
• Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center: Learn about the diverse aquatic ecosystems of the region and experience fishing in a controlled environment.

Amusement and Leisure

For those seeking leisure and amusement, Northeast Texas offers exciting options. The Splash Kingdom Waterpark is a fantastic way to beat the Texas heat with its array of thrilling water attractions. Additionally, visiting local farms and orchards during harvest season provides a fun and educational experience for all ages.

• Splash Kingdom Waterpark: Stay cool and entertained at this exciting waterpark, perfect for a family day out;
• Local Farms and Orchards: Experience the joy of picking your own fruits and vegetables while connecting with local agriculture.

Taste the Flavors of Northeast Texas

Northeast Texas is a culinary delight with its unique flavors. Savor the taste of the region by exploring local barbecue joints known for their mouthwatering Texas BBQ. Additionally, tour local vineyards and indulge in exquisite Northeast Texas wines at the region’s wineries and vineyards.

• Local Barbecue Joints: Delight in the renowned Texas BBQ at local favorites, showcasing the region’s culinary traditions;
• Wineries and Vineyards: Embark on a journey of taste and sophistication by touring local vineyards and sampling the finest wines Northeast Texas has to offer.

Events and Seasonal Activities

Northeast Texas offers a diverse range of events and seasonal activities for residents and visitors alike. During the autumn season, the region comes alive with vibrant fall foliage and numerous pumpkin patches, and fall festivals. The Tyler Rose Festival is a time-honored tradition, celebrating the area’s rich history in rose cultivation through parades, activities, and stunning rose showings.

• Autumn in East Texas: Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of fall foliage while enjoying the charm of pumpkin patches and lively fall festivals;
• Tyler Rose Festival: Commemorate the region’s deep-rooted connection to rose cultivation through a series of engaging events, including parades and stunning displays of roses.

Artistic and Literary Pursuits

Northeast Texas is a hub for artistic and literary enthusiasts. The Piney Woods Poetry Festival gathers poets and literature enthusiasts to celebrate the power of words. Additionally, art lovers can explore the region’s artistic tapestry through various art trails and studio tours.

• Piney Woods Poetry Festival: Join fellow poets and literature enthusiasts in a celebration of words, creativity, and literary expression;
• Art Trails: Embark on a journey through Northeast Texas’s rich artistic heritage by exploring various art trails and engaging with local artists in their studios.

Active Lifestyle and Sports

For those who enjoy an active lifestyle, Northeast Texas has plenty to offer. Golfing enthusiasts can tee off at numerous scenic golf courses, making it a popular leisure activity in the region. Additionally, cycling routes provide an opportunity to explore the stunning landscapes of Northeast Texas on two wheels.

• Golfing: Take advantage of the picturesque golf courses in the area, offering a relaxing and enjoyable way to spend your time;
• Cycling Routes: Discover the beauty of Northeast Texas through cycling routes that showcase the region’s natural landscapes and scenic vistas.

With its rich tapestry of historical sites, lush natural parks, vibrant cultural scenes, and mouth-watering cuisine, Northeast Texas offers a diverse range of activities for all visitors. From the quiet, pine-scented trails of the Davy Crockett National Forest to the lively streets of its small towns during festival season, there’s always something exciting to explore. Remember, when you’re looking for things to do in Northeast Texas, this region is ready to offer an adventure that’s just right for you! So pack your bags, set your itinerary, and get ready to explore the hidden gems and grand adventures awaiting in Northeast Texas.

The best time to visit is during the spring and fall when the weather is mild and the natural scenery is at its best.

Absolutely! From educational museums to outdoor parks and festivals, there are plenty of family-friendly activities.

Northeast Texas is home to a wide variety of dining options, from classic Texas BBQ to fine dining experiences.

Unique activities include exploring the Caddo Lake State Park, visiting the historic sites in Jefferson, and enjoying the local music and arts scene.

Yes, with its numerous parks, lakes, and trails, it’s perfect for hiking, fishing, boating, and more.

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34 Amazing Things to do in North Texas

Looking for the best things to do in North Texas?

North Texas is a geographical region consisting of the Dallas-Fort Worth-Arlington metropolitan area, one of the first urbanized areas in Texas.

It comprises the northern regions of Texas Hill Country and extends all the way to the Oklahoma border.

Fun fact: North Texas is actually North Central Texas and often called ‘Nortex’ by the locals!

You will find a vast variety of things to do in North Texas including urban attractions such as museums and amusement parks, state parks and national monuments, small towns, and more.

Here is an ultimate guide to attractions in the North Texas region.

North Texas attractions in Dallas-Fort Worth metro area

The metropolitan area of Dallas-Fort Worth is a major part of North Texas.

Here are some of the best North Texas urban attractions in the region.

Visit the Dallas Museum of Art

One of the most popular attractions in North Texas is the Dallas Museum of Art.

Located in Downtown Dallas Arts District, this impressive museum has a collection of over 18,000 works of art.

Art lovers should definitely add the museum to their Dallas bucket list.

Also Read: Best Things to do in Dallas, Texas

Walk through history at the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza

Another top attraction in North Texas is The Sixth Floor museum at Dealey Plaza, the site of President John F. Kennedy’s assassination.

Visitors can take a guided tour that includes interactive exhibits and films to learn about JFK’s life and the events leading up to his death.

Explore West End historic district

Dallas’s West End Historic District also has many other attractions apart from the Sixth floor Museum.

Here you will find a collection of museums, restaurants, shops, and more.

One notable attraction is the Old Red Museum, which has striking architecture.

Visit the Texas State Fair

The Texas State Fair is a grand event for all Texans to enjoy.

It takes place every year at Fair Park in Dallas, and attracts thousands of visitors from all across Texas and the country.

The fair offers a wide variety of attractions for families and kids, including rides, food vendors, livestock exhibitions, and many more.

Some of our favorite things to do at the fair include riding the Texas Star Ferris wheel and enjoying treats like fried Oreos and funnel cakes.

Fair Park also has many other attractions including historic buildings, botanical gardens, museums, and more.

See a concert at the American Airlines Center

Located in the Victory Park neighborhood, the American Airlines Center is home to the Dallas Mavericks basketball team and the Dallas Stars ice hockey team.

It also hosts musical shows, family events, boxing matches, WWE wrestling matches, and other live concerts throughout the year.

See the rhododendrons at the Dallas Arboretum

Dallas Arboretum & Botanical Gardens, located on the shores of White Rock Lake, is an amazing place to visit for nature lovers.

The garden is full of beautifully maintained green spaces, blooming azaleas and tulips in spring, and stunning fall colors.

Shop in Bishop Arts District

If you love trendy neighborhoods, then be sure to visit Bishop Arts District in Dallas.

It’s one of the most charming North Texas neighborhoods with lots of art galleries, restaurants, boutiques and more.

Admire the murals, visit a book shop or two, eat some Texas bbq, and enjoy the nightlife here.

See the animals at the Dallas Zoo

The Dallas Zoo is home to many interesting animals from all over the world.

It features exhibits for popular species as well as those rare and endangered ones.

You can see lions, elephants, gorillas, zebras, kangaroos and so much more at the Dallas Zoo.

Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards

Fort Worth Stockyards is a North Texas attraction that attracts thousands of visitors every day.

The Stockyards offer the ultimate old west experience and are full of fun things to do.

Visitors can watch bull-riding at Cowtown Rodeo, experience the aroma and flavor of Texas cuisine, shop for unique cowboy boots and hats, and watch live cattle drives among other activities.

Visit on a Friday or Saturday night and you can listen to live music, dance the two step, and enjoy the honky tonk bars in the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Marvel at the Fort Worth Water Gardens

Fort Worth Water Gardens is an impressive multi-level man made garden consisting of waterfalls, pools, and fountains.

The garden is designed by famed architect Philip Johnson and is impressive to visit.

Located in downtown Fort Worth, close to Sundance Square, the water garden is popular for photoshoots.

Ride the roller coasters at Six Flags Over Texas

Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington has many thrilling slides and family attractions and is one of the best amusement parks in Texas.

At the park, visitors can ride gravity defying roller coasters including New Texas Giant, Texas Skyscreamer, Titan, and more.

For North Texas visitors who love water sports and action, there’s no better place to visit than Six Flags Hurricane Harbor.

The waterpark is home to thrilling slides, lazy river, and kiddie pools.

A day at Six Flags Over Texas is full of family fun and should definitely be on your North Texas bucket list.

See a game of the Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys is one of the most popular teams in the NFL and it plays home games at the enormous AT&T Stadium in Arlington.

Watching a game here is an amazing experience.

Admire the panoramas from Reunion Tower

Reunion Tower, located in Downtown Dallas, is an iconic feature of the Dallas Skyline.

The impressive building has an observation deck and a revolving full service restaurant, making it very popular for date nights and romantic meals.

The panoramic views of the Dallas Skyline from the observation deck are also breathtaking.

Visit the Dallas World Aquarium

One of the largest aquariums in the Dallas-Fort Worth region is the Dallas World Aquarium.

Visitors can encounter sharks, penguins, otters, piranhas, and more exotic water creatures at this massive aquarium.

Explore North Dallas

North Dallas is a popular area that comprises neighborhoods such as Oak Cliff, Arlington Park, Lake Highlands, and North Park.

This vibrant area is home to some of the best shopping, dining and entertainment venues in the Dallas-Fort Worth region.

Visitors can shop at North Park Center or Galleria Dallas for designer brands as well as eat delicious Texan cuisine such as brisket and tacos.

Step into the past at Dallas Heritage Village

Dallas Heritage Village is a living history museum that tells the story of Dallas’ past through a collection of preserved buildings and artifacts.

The Village is located in Old City Park. It is home to a number of restored historic buildings, including a log cabin, a schoolhouse, and a church.

Visitors can tour the buildings and learn about the city’s rich history.

Visit the George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum

The George W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in Dallas is a state-of-the-art facility on the grounds of the Southern Methodist University.

It houses the archives of the George W. Bush presidency, as well as a museum that tells the story of his time in office.

The museum features interactive exhibits that tell the story of the Bush presidency, from the September 11th attacks to the War in Iraq.

The museum also has a replica of the Oval Office, as well as a full-scale replica of Air Force One.

Besides these, DFW metro area is home to many other attractions including Texas Discovery Gardens, Highland Park Village, Texas Motor Speedway, and more.

Interesting small towns and cities to visit in North Texas

Apart from Fort Worth and Dallas, North Texas also has many small towns that are worth a visit.

Here you will find historic sites, natural wonders, charming main streets, and great food.

They make the perfect tourist attractions for the entire family.

Waco is one of the best cities to visit in Central Texas.

The city is rich in history and has lots of points of interest to visit.

Waco Mammoth Site at the dig site of a prehistoric mammoth, Texas Ranger Hall of Fame Museum, Dr Pepper Museum, Cameron Park Zoo, and Magnolia Market are all great attractions here.

Glen Rose is home to several other tourist attractions apart from the Dinosaur Valley State Park.

The city is home to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center – a drive through safari where kids can feed zebras, deer, giraffes, and more exotic animals.

If you love dinosaurs and want to see more of them, then visit the Dinosaur World in Glen Rose.

Also Read: Best Dinosaur Museums in Texas to take kids

The small town of Tyler is home to beautiful historical sites, museums, and a charming downtown area.

One of the best places to visit in Tyler is its Rose Garden – a public garden that displays more than 10,000 rose plants.

Other attractions include museums, parks, and historic buildings.

Grapevine is known as the Christmas capital of Texas.

During the holiday season, Grapevine has numerous festive and fun things to do for visitors.

Admire the Holiday Lights on Main Street, ride the North Pole Express to meet Santa Claus, and celebrate the holidays with many other events.

Also Read: Best Places to spend Christmas in Texas

Wichita Falls

Wichita Falls is a great city to visit for outdoor activities and fun family activities.

From its scenic location on the Wichita River to its rich history and culture, there is something for everyone in Wichita Fall.

The city is home to a number of museums and historical sites, as well as a variety of outdoor activities.

Visitors can enjoy hiking and biking in the city’s parks, fishing in the river, or exploring the many trails that wind through the city.

Frisco is one of the best cities to visit in North Texas.

The city has many charming small towns and points of interest like Frisco Square, Dr Pepper Arena, Frisco RoughRiders Stadium, Uptown Main Street, and much more.

McKinney is a city in the county of Collin and it’s one of the best cities to visit in the Dallas-Fort Worth region.

You can visit McKinney for its great shopping, restaurants, historical sites, and more.

Take a tour of downtown McKinney, shop at McKinney Market Center, eat at some amazing restaurants, and visit the historic sites to learn more about the history of this city.

Ennis is one of the best places to see bluebonnets in Texas .

Views of bluebonnets are stunning, especially in late March to early April.

Drive the scenic bluebonnet trails, shop at the bluebonnet festival, and listen to live music concerts!

Also Read: Best Things to do in Ennis, Texas

Historic Granbury has great shopping, dining, museums, festivals and events for visitors.

Learn about the history of Granbury at Civil War battlefields, take a tour of historic homes to learn more about this town’s unique history.

Go wine tasting at Grape Creek Vineyards or go fishing at Lake Granbury.

Muenster, located north of the Dallas area, is a charming German town in Texas .

Visit the historic buildings in downtown Muenster, admire the architecture, and visit one of the many German restaurants.

Enjoy a glass of wine and listen to live music at the wineries!

You must visit Denton , a charming city in North Texas. It makes an amazing day trip from Dallas .

The city has beautiful architecture and is most famous for the striking Denton County Courthouse.

It also has Victorian homes, a pretty Town Square, and streets filled with boutiques and stores.

Ray Roberts Lake State Park is located nearby and is perfect for spending the day on the water.

Rockwall, Texas is a small city located just northeast of Dallas.

It is known for being the smallest town in Texas with its own lake, Lake Ray Hubbard.

Visitors of Rockwall will find plenty of activities to take part in such as art galleries, quaint shopping and dining opportunities as well as spending time on the beautiful Lake Ray Hubbard beaches.

Outdoor things to do in North Texas

The northern part of the Lone Star State has a variety of outdoor attractions, beautiful landscapes, as well as camping and hiking destinations.

Spend a day outdoors in one of these amazing North Texas state parks and natural areas.

Dinosaur Valley State Park

Dinosaur Valley State Park is one of our favorite places to visit in the Lone star state with kids.

The State Park is home to the tracks of dinosaurs and other fossils.

Hike on more than 10 miles of trails and learn about the prehistoric beasts.

The park is also a favorite with mountain bikers and wildlife watchers.

Joe Pool Lake

Joe Pool Lake is a freshwater lake located in southwest Dallas, Texas.

The city of Grand Prairie surrounds Joe Pool Lake and there are several things to do at this beautiful lake for visitors.

Go boating on the water or go kayaking, fishing, camping, and swimming during your visit to Joe Pool Lake.

Lake Texoma

Lake Texoma is the place to go if you’re looking for outdoor fun like camping and hiking.

This beautiful lake is located on the Texas Oklahoma border and is popular for fishing, kayaking, or paddle boarding.

Cedar Hill State Park

Cedar Hill State Park is home to Pecan Bayou Nature Trail, a 1.2 mile hike through the natural area where you can see rare animals and plants.

The park also has picnic areas, a playground area for children, a visitors center and more!

Lake Mineral Wells State Park

Located near Granbury, Texas this state park is known for the striking colors of the lake and dam.

Camping, fishing, water sports and hiking are popular here in Lake Mineral Wells State Park.

Lake Tawakoni State Park

Lake Tawakoni is a wonderful place to go camping, fishing, swimming, boating and kayaking.

The park surrounds the breathtaking lake and is located near Wills Point, Texas.

Lake Tawakoni is near East Fork Trinity River and has beautiful scenery with shaded areas, hiking trails with great views of the lake, and more!

Tyler State Park

Tyler State Park is a great place to hike, camp and enjoy the beautiful outdoors of Texas.

This state park is located east of Dallas and has a beautiful lake with over 20 miles of trails.

This is one of the best places to see fall colors in Texas .

Waco Mammoth National Monument

Waco Mammoth National Monument preserves fossilized remains of Columbian Mammoths.

The national monument is located in Downtown Waco and it’s free to visit.

It’s one of the best attractions to visit in Waco, if you’re traveling with kids, want something fun to do for a couple hours, or just enjoy learning about fascinating prehistoric giant elephants!

We hope you liked our post on the best things to do in Northern Texas!

More Texas Travel Guides

To read about other famous Texas attractions such as Space Center Houston, San Antonio River walk, Padre Island National Seashore, and Big Bend National Park, read our post on best places to visit in Texas .

Looking for attractions in West Texas and the Texas Panhandle including Cadillac Ranch Amarillo and Palo Duro Canyon? Read our post on best things to do in the Texas Panhandle here.

Want to plan a road trip around the Texas Hill Country? Read our post on Best Things to do in the Hill Country now.

Wish to explore the beautiful Caddo Lake State Park and the surrounding small towns of Jefferson and Marshall? Read our Ultimate Guide to the best things to do in East Texas .

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7 Best Small Towns in East Texas/Piney Woods

It seems like every time I leave our small town, I find a new road leading to another small town.

It’s made it especially difficult for this west-Texas girl to get her directional bearings, but some of the most beautiful places in East Texas can be found on these winding little highways.

Seriously, I am utterly dependent on Google maps. If I lose reception, my panic steadily grows until I reach the top of the next hill and the Google lady (I call her Ethel) starts talking to me again.

Based on my year of exploration so far, here’s a few of the best small towns Ethel and I have found in East Texas:

Map of Can’t-Miss Small Towns in East Texas

1. cutest downtown: pittsburg, tx, 2. most convenient: mt. pleasant, tx, bonus: gladewater book shop, 4. for when it’s too hot to farm: mt. vernon, tx, 5. most historical: jefferson, tx, 6. blingiest: kilgore, tx, 7. great for gardeners: emory, tx.

Ethel’s (my name for the Google maps lady) favorite route, and one of the prettiest drives in East Texas, goes right through downtown Pittsburg, Texas.

While a lot of small towns have trouble with dilapidated, vacant downtown buildings, Pittsburg is vibrant and full of small businesses to explore.

Even the old murals are well-preserved and vibrant.

It’s lit beautifully at night, making it a great place for a romantic evening stroll, or a photoshoot.

Every time I drive through, I fantasize living above a bakery on the main street and handing out bread on the street corner while everyone sings the opening number from a cartoon movie.

If you’re looking to run errands, have some fun and eat some chocolate, Mt. Pleasant is the destination for you.

Mt. Pleasant is home to the country’s largest handmade chocolate shop. If that’s not a reason to drop everything and hit the road, I’m not sure what is.

But beyond sweets, Mt. Pleasant is a hub for the tinier towns in the area, and as a result has just a little bit of whatever you’re looking for. From big box stores to smaller specialty shops, medical services and easy access to I-30, (Ethel loves that) Mt. Pleasant is full of convenience.

How pleasant is that? (Sorry, had to.)

3. Quirkiest: Gladewater, TX

Gladewater prides itself on being the best spot for antiques in East Texas. That’s probably true, although I’m not a great antique collector myself. (I’m more of a furniture-nobody-else-wanted collector.)

Ethel has no use for antiques either.

But with those prized collections of treasures from days past, comes a whole quirky culture that I really get into when I have a chance to visit Gladewater.

There’s a few adorable little cafes and bakeries, plus boutiques with unexpected wares. In one such boutique, an artisan had upcycled mounted deer heads with rhinestones and paint. They even had fake eyelashes!

She said it’s one of her most popular products, and she regularly has clients commission glammed up deer for their home or office décor.

Several blocks from the diva-deer store stands my favorite little independent used bookstore.

I really thought I was going to find Meg Ryan sitting on the floor reading to children when we walked in.

Instead, I found an older man who resembles the man who runs the bookstore in the animated Beauty and Beast.

The place has that magical smell of books just waiting to reveal some new thought or adventure you haven’t had yet. It’s a great place to find inspiration.

In the middle of all of these stores and cafes, there are oil derricks and a railroad.

I think it’s a fascinating place.

Mt. Vernon has an adorable square, with a beautiful, small library.

It’s the perfect spot to spend a hot afternoon.

Right off the square, there’s a very nice, little splash pad where the kids can cool off and a nearby playground right out of 1998, complete with a long, metal slide and giant merry-go-round.

The town is completely surrounded by gorgeous farmland except for where I-30 runs right through it.

Dining options are pretty limited, but there’s an authentic Texas Barbecue joint. (That and Tex-Mex is really all a true Texan needs, and even the Tex-Mex place in Mt. Vernon can suffice in a pinch.)

If you’re looking for that true, small-town, slow-pace experience, Mt. Vernon is worth a visit.

Jefferson is on my bucket list of places to really go full tourist in. I’ve been through there a time or two and explored a couple of less-prominent places, but there is an incredible amount of history in Jefferson left to be seen.

It was the trade port for Northeast Texas, because of the railway and water access to Shreveport and New Orleans.

To this day, the antebellum architecture and landmarks tell the story of early Texas trade and are just so fascinating to me. I’m especially looking forward to geeking out at the gorgeous 1907 Carnegie Library.

Fun Jefferson Fact: A funny thing I didn’t know before I became a resident of East Texas is that a lot of people here believe in Bigfoot and keep an eye out for her (turns out bigfoot is likely female) on a regular basis.

Jefferson honors this search for Bigfoot at the Port Jefferson History and Nature Center, where you can take a picture with the Bigfoot statue and walk the trail to look for Bigfoot. (In fact, the Texas Bigfoot Research Center is located in Jefferson.)

Myself, I’m a skeptic. Ethel doesn’t know where bigfoot is, so I figure I don’t need to.

Kilgore is a small town with retro, big-city aspirations.

As such, they’re big on entertainment. They have multiple historic movie theaters, East Texas’ only professional theater group, and numerous other throwback entertainment venues, including a roller-skating rink and bowling alley.

Even their museums tend to center on entertainment. The Rangerettes, the oil boom and TV and radio broadcasting each have their own museum in Kilgore.

All in all, Kilgore is a great place to step away from the routine of day-to-day life.

If happiness to you involves potting soil and you’re in the neighborhood, spend a minute in Emory. That small town is somehow able to support a huge nursery, feedstore and other related businesses all within a mile of one another.

It’s impressive!

And I’m always tempted to pretend like I have a green thumb and bring home some poor unsuspecting plant, lying to myself about how unlikely it is to live more than a month in my “care.”

A fun game to play as you drive through Emory: who can spot the name Hooten on the most businesses.

11 Destinations Way Out East In Texas That Are So Worth The Drive

Katie Lawrence

Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015. Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).

More by this Author

It may not have towering mountains or epic, otherworldly swimming holes, but East Texas deserves far more recognition than we give it. From the oldest town in the state to a historic railroad, zip lining to the nation’s largest rose garden, the Pineywoods have so much to offer. Here are 11 of the best things to do out east.

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Have you ever visited any of these places? What’s your favorite thing to do in East Texas?

If you’re from West Texas and feel left out, this one’s for you: This Historic Town In Texas Is A True West Gem And You’ll Want To Visit .

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

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East Texas Attractions

Larry Rana/Wikimedia Commons

Set among the towering pines which give the region its nickname -- the Piney Woods -- the East Texas region is full of attractions, both manmade and natural. From its namesake pines to some of the biggest lakes in Texas, East Texas has plenty of options for those interested in outdoor recreation . It is also one of the top areas in the country for flower enthusiasts, with a number of flower gardens and trails. Additionally, Texas' oldest town -- Nacogdoches -- is found in the region, as well as one of the state's oldest railways and much, much more.

Texas State Railroad

Running on tracks first laid in 1896, the Texas State Railroad crisscrosses the East Texas Piney Woods between the towns of Rusk and Palestine. Riding the rails of the Texas State Railroad is one of the best ways to take in the natural beauty of the East Texas Piney Woods. Tours on the Texas State Railroad are particularly popular during spring when the flowers are in full bloom. Taking this tour in the Victorian era passenger cars of the Texas State Railroad, which was first established in 1881, is like taking a trip back in time. The Texas State Railroad offers a variety of tours and special events. However, the "standard" trip is the Piney Woods Steam Excursion, which is a round trip between Rusk and Palestine.

Big Thicket National Preserve

Although the East Texas region is known for its towering pine trees, it is the enormous cypress trees found within the Big Thicket National Preserve which add such a unique characteristic to this national park. As the first area to be designated as a national preserve in the United States, Big Thicket National Preserve covers more than 100,000 acres and offers visitors a dizzying array of outdoor recreational opportunities. Backpacking, hiking, camping, canoeing and fishing are popular activities within the preserve. There are also numerous trails for biking, jogging, bird watching and nature viewing.

Nacogdoches

As the oldest town in Texas, Nacogdoches is definitely a "must see" for any history enthusiast visiting Texas. As one might expect from the oldest town in the state, Nacogdoches is rich in history . Starting in the early 1700s, the Spanish began attempting to establish missions in the area. In 1779, a group of settlers established a local government in Nacogdoches. In 1832, citizens of Nacogdoches drove Mexican troops from the town during the "Battle of Nacogdoches," helping set the stage for the Texas Revolution. In 1845, Nacogdoches University was established. In 1923, Stephen F Austin Teachers College, which later became Stephen F Austin University, was founded. Today, Nacogdoches is a blend of history, Spanish design and Southern charm.

Lake Sam Rayburn

Lake Sam Rayburn, also affectionately known as "Big Sam," is the largest reservoir fully contained within the state of Texas (nearby Toledo Bend Reservoir is larger, but is partially located in Louisiana). Impounded in 1965, Sam Rayburn covers 114,000 acres. Located just outside the East Texas town of Jasper, Sam Rayburn has become a popular destination for fishermen, boaters, water skiiers and others looking to "spend a day at the lake."

Tyler Roses

The rose fields of Tyler have become legendary for both the quality of their flowers as well as the sheer magnitude of the fields. Make no mistake, Tyler is reliant on roses. Rose lovers can tour the commercial production fields on the outskirts of town or take a stroll through the magnificent Tyler Municipal Rose Garden, which showcases 40,000 rose bushes representing 500 different varieties of roses. Tyler is also home to the "Rose Museum."

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27+ Best Things to Do in North Texas (must-sees!)

North Texas is not only home to some of the biggest cities in the state, but also a number of charming smaller towns, mountain ranges, state parks and areas of key historical and cultural significance.

Covering an expansive geographic area from the Oklahoma border to the north, down to Waco in the central south, this vast landscape has plenty to see, do and explore.

From the bustling urban attractions of Dallas and Fort Worth to the unique charms of Granbury and the scenic trails of Ennis, here are 21 of the most fun and interesting things to do in North Texas.

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• 19 Best Places to Visit in Texas
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How to get around North Texas

Like most of Texas, the best way to get around North Texas is to explore on your own by car!

If you’re visiting and need to rent a car, we highly recommend Discover Cars where they find you the best car rental deals from all of the competitors (has saved us so much money!).

Okay, everyone grab their best vintage Texas tee and let’s get going!

1. Explore Dallas

One of the most popular things to do in North Texas is to explore the city lights and attractions of Dallas.

Known for its thriving food culture, pulsing bar scene (including the infamous Margarita Mile ) and impressive arts district, Dallas makes for an exciting city break during your visit to North Texas.

Some of the most popular attractions are the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza which commemorates the assassination of John F. Kennedy and the Crow Collection of Asian Art .

Also check out these great day trips from Dallas !

2. Visit the American Airlines Center

Dallas often plays host to some of the biggest live music performances in North Texas, with musicians performing at both the more intimate Toyota Music Factory and the American Airlines Center .

If you want the full rock and roll experience, be sure to catch a concert at the American Airlines Center which hosts big name performers for a night to be remembered.

The American Airlines Center is also home to the NHL’s Dallas Stars and Dallas Mavericks, offering sport enthusiasts a chance to see the local NHL heroes in their homeground.

3. Visit the Reunion Tower

One of the most recognizable landmarks in Dallas, the Reunion Tower has a viewing deck 50 stories up to give visitors spectacular views over North Texas.

You can purchase a ticket to the viewing deck alone, or book a table for drinks and dinner and make a full evening out of it.

For the brave hearted, there’s also leaning windows to look over into downtown Dallas.

4. Visit the Fort Worth Stockyards

For a glimpse at authentic Texan history, visit the cattle drives at the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Here you’ll see a swarm of locals in full cowboy regalia, roaming cattle and the local culture of this traditional corner of the charming southern state.

The cattle drive occurs twice a day and you’ll have the best chances of witnessing the action from the front of the Livestock Exchange Building in the historic district.

5. Visit the Fort Worth Water Gardens

Located in the southern end of downtown Fort Worth, the expansive water gardens are an architecturally designed meeting hub for locals and visitors alike.

The Water Gardens act as a cooling oasis for residents during the often-stifling hot weather, and provide a (literally) refreshing break from the concrete sights of downtown.

There are several water features including the quieter meditation pool and the gushing active pool, making for a perfect resting spot to rest your feet and soak in the surroundings.

6. Visit the Texas sunflower farms

Where can you find fields of sunflowers just a short drive away from the urban center of town?

In North Texas of course!

One of the most picturesque places to see in North Texas are the sunflower fields that are dotted throughout the countryside.

Whilst not all farms are open to the public, Wild Berry Farm is located about an hour north of the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and welcomes visitors to roam the fields and even snip some flowers to take home for a small fee.

7. Visit the Lake Mineral Wells State Park

A scenic stop just under an hour away from Fort Worth, the Lake Mineral Wells State Park provides an abundance of nature-centered activities for an afternoon of exploration.

Here you can try your hand at rock climbing, horse riding, hiking, camping and fishing.

There are also museums located in the park to help you learn more about the history and unique rock formations, including the fascinating Mineral Wells Fossil Park, where you can spot well-preserved Pennsylvanian Period fossils.

8. Visit the Texas State Fair

One of the most fun things to do in North Texas is to visit the Texas State Fair . These are some of the largest fairgrounds in the USA and packed with adventure, food, rides and entertainment to delight visitors of all ages.

The aim of the fair is to promote local agriculture, education and community spirit, and is a chance for visitors to sample some of the local culture and cuisine that North Texas is renowned for.

9. Explore the Fort Worth Botanic Gardens

The Fort Worth Botanic Gardens are a 120-acre wonderland of gardens, ponds, hills and waterfalls.

Exploring the entire gardens would likely take more than a day, but choose from the seasonal highlights, such as the pumpkin picking areas during fall or the Japanese festival in November which showcase the gardens in their full glory.

Even if you’re there outside of the key events calendar, there’s plenty to explore. If you need a little coffee break, there’s a spacious indoor and open air café to relax in.

10. Explore the Historic Downtown of Grapevine

The historic heart of downtown Grapevine is a charming teaser to the rest of this vineyard-centered locale.

From restaurants showcasing local cuisine, a historic train, public art on display and winery tasting rooms to explore, you’ll find plenty to see and do in this charming town.

Some of the key highlights are the Grapevine Vintage Railroad, the Grapevine Glockenspiel Clock Tower and the Palace Arts Center .

The town also hosts food and wine tours and a farmers market, so be sure to check those out too if their schedule coincides with your visit.

11.  Attend GrapeFest

If you’ve timed your visit to Grapevine to coincide with GrapeFest , typically held in mid-September, you’re in for a grape time!

GrapeFest is a four day celebration of local Texas wines and winemakers, with a full calendar of activities and experiences to get involved in.

From wine tasting to musical performances, there’s something for all interests.

There are family-friendly activities for children too, including carnivals and kid zones, so all ages can get involved in the fun.

12. Visit Six Flags North Texas

One of the most fun things to do in North Texas is visit Six Flags .

Whether you’re there with kids, or you’re a kid at heart, a visit to Six Flags Over Texas in Arlington is sure to be an afternoon of fun.

Six Flags are known for their thrill rides, so make sure to check out the Batman roller coaster, the Superman tower of power and the soon to open Aquaman power wave.

Six Flags also hosts live events and performances, so check the online schedule when planning your visit.

13. Visit Dinosaur Valley State Park

One of the most interesting and unique things to do in North Texas is to visit Dinosaur Valley State Park .

Just a short drive away from Fort Worth, you can wander amongst the actual hillsides and riverbeds where dinosaurs once roamed.

Spend an afternoon searching for dinosaur footprints in the waterbeds, and don’t miss exploring the remainder of this large, rustic natural park.

There are hiking paths, campgrounds, fishing spots and you can even bring your horse to go riding around the trails.

14. Visit Granbury

One of the most charming places to visit in North Texas is the picturesque town of Granbury .

You can stop by for a day trip or add a night to your visit to make the most of this beautiful town.

There’s plenty to take in by simply strolling around the main street, but some of the particular highlights of the town include a tour of the Hood County Courthouse , a visit to the sandy City Beach Park and the Granbury Ghosts and Legends tour .

15. Tour the Vineyards of North Texas

One of the most popular wine regions in the country, North Texas is home to many publicly accessible vineyards, both popular and lesser known.

You can embark on a self-guided tour through the wine region, stopping into various tasting rooms and cellars at your leisure.

The North Texas Wine Country website lists the forty-one member wineries that you can visit, to help you plan your outing.

If you prefer a more tailored approach, a number of operators in the area offer luxury wine tours, giving you a more relaxed and guided taste of the wineries in the area.

16. See the Texas Bluebonnets

In April each year, visitors flock to the town of Ennis in North Texas for a glimpse of the famed Ennis Bluebonnet Trail .

Whilst the town has been crowned the ‘Official Bluebonnet City of Texas’, April is when the township really comes to bloom.

The splendid blue wildflowers bloom at the start of April, attracting crowds from all over the country to get a glimpse during the short window of bluebonnet season.

The trail itself is over 40 miles long and visitors can drive through various sections of the trail to see the stunning blue blooms.

Whilst you’re visiting the town of Ennis, be sure to also stop by at Bluebonnet Market , a weekly Saturday market where you can pick up fresh produce, knick knacks and souvenirs.

17. Visit a Rodeo Ranch

The rodeo is an integral part of Texas culture, and one of the most unique things to do in North Texas.

There are several rodeos in North Texas that are open to the public, however one of the key highlights of the rodeo calendar is the annual North Texas Fair and Rodeo held in Denton.

Typically spanning nine days, the fair is a true celebration of rodeo culture and spirit.

You can enjoy live performances from big names in Country and Folk music, along with livestock shows, children’s zones and the high-stakes, high-energy rodeo championships.

If you miss the fair, you can also visit one of the local ranches that operate horseback riding classes and camps all year round.

18. Visit the River Bend Nature Center

In a corner of Wichita Falls, Texas, you’ll find the River Bend Nature Center .

This sprawling not-for-profit private reserve is dedicated to the conservation and preservation of local wildlife and flora.

Through a mixture of educational activities, self-guided tours and awareness programs, the River Bend Nature Center aims to educate visitors about the importance of preserving the natural environment we inhabit.

You can choose to explore the gardens and conservatories at your own pace, or join in one of the many activities on offer, including joining a guided tour or attending one of the educational-focused events and talks hosted by the Center.

19. Visit the Texas Motor Speedway

One of the most fun things to do in North Texas is to watch a race at the Texas Motor Speedway .

NASCAR racing is a big part of the local culture, and visitors from all over are welcome to experience the thrill of motor racing at the speedway.

Even if you’re not able to make it for NASCAR season, the motorway hosts a number of local races that can be a great opportunity to see the exhilarating race track come alive.

20. Visit the Dr. Pepper Museum

Did you know Dr. Pepper, the world-famous soda brand was founded in North Texas?

Whilst many local buildings now bear the Dr. Pepper name, a visit to the official Dr. Pepper museum will give you an insight into the history and origins of this now much loved brand.

Whilst you can generally walk into the museum, there are some fun experiences that do require pre-booking, including the make-your-own-soda and tasting experiences.

21. Visit Kimbell Art Museum

With works by Monet and Michelangelo adorning the walls of the Kimbell Art Museum , this architecturally designed institution in Fort Worth is one of the most popular places to visit in North Texas.

The museum itself is widely recognized as one of the most significant architectural institutions of the modern era.

With water features, open spaces and a unique arched roof, the building itself is thoroughly fascinating to wander around.  

The museum hosts a number of both permanent and temporary collections, so keep an eye on the museum calendar to see what exhibitions are on show during your visit.

22. Visit the Waco Suspension Bridge

Built in 1870, the Waco Suspension Bridge is a true site to behold, and you don’t even have to worry about cars as it’s only open to foot traffic.

Spend your time meandering across and learn a little bit about its history!

As you walk across, you’ll cross the Brazos River, which used to be a much more dangerous affair as it had to be done by ferry instead of bridge.

While it wasn’t easy to build the bridge, thanks to the nearest resources being hundreds of miles away, it was eventually completed and was actually the first major suspension bridge in Texas.

It’s been foot-traffic only since 1971, almost 100 years after it was built, and there are newer bridges today that keep the city moving.

However, it still stands as a tribute to the first bridge that really put Waco on the map and let it flourish the way it did.

23. Relax at the Waco Winery Tasting Room

Waco isn’t just a place for sightseeing, but also a hub of wineries, restaurants, and bars to hang out and relax.

One of the best for wine lovers is the Waco Winery Tasting Room.

Here, you’ll find some incredible local wines, as well as a tasting room with a rooftop patio (yes please to those views!).

Enjoy the sun or the nighttime breeze and let the friendly staff help you find new wines to love.

There’s also regular live music, as well as easy-to-book birthday party and celebration events if you want to rent out the space to really take the time to celebrate with friends and family.

24. Explore the Meadows Museum

Got an afternoon to head to Southern Methodist University?

Here, you’ll find one of the most surprising art collections: one of the largest collections of Spanish art outside of Spain at the Meadows museum!

From Picassos to Grecos to Goya, the collection here is stunning and ranges from the 10th to the 21st centuries so you can really understand how the art movements developed as did the history of Spain.

Pause and take in the oil sketches or marvel at the wood sculptures and canvases.

And why is all of this Spanish art in Dallas?

The museum began with a gift to the university from a man named Algur Meadows, who often visited Spain and collected art.

Now you can enjoy for free!

25. Browse through Spice Village

If you want a shopping experience like no other, head to Spice Village in Downtown Waco!

It’s not far from Magnolia Market and it’s a treasure trove of boutique shops with everything from T-shirts to cat toys to home decor on sale.

It’s colorful, funky, perfect for finding gifts, and has a ton of Texas-themed products as well.

This is the kind of place you go to browse and then come out with 8 things you didn’t know you needed, which we’re all for.

26. See Thanks-Giving Square

If you need some moments of contemplation, seek out Thanks-Giving Square, which is an art installation in Dallas that seeks to help inspire the spirit of thanksgiving and gratitute for what we have.

There’s a meditation garden and chapel, and it’s been well-used and loved since it was designed in 1976.

The chapel has gorgeous stained glass and is open to all people, and you can visit daily for free.

27. Walk around White Rock Lake

Whether you want to hike, bike, or just take a packed lunch to enjoy, White Rock Lake is the place to do it in North Texas.

It’s one of the most popular parks in Dallas and spreads over 1,000 acres, even including the Dallas Arboretum as part of the park!

Bring your dog to play in the dog parks with his furry friends or explore the wetlands (don’t forget your walking shoes!).

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Texas Travel 365

30 Things To Do In Texas: The Ultimate Bucket List

August 23, 2021 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   1 Comment

Are you starting your next adventure and need a list of things to do in Texas? You’ve come to the right place! We’ve got the most epic stops, sightsees, road trips, and more in Texas that will make you want to bring a pen to keep track of where you’ve been so you can complete the list!

Texas is extremely unique and there’s a little something for everyone here! Whether you’re here for a day, a couple of weeks, or you live in Texas and just want to explore, this list is the perfect companion to your Texas adventure.

Hamilton Pool

Hamilton Pool is a nature reserve located in Travis County Park. This is one of the most epic things to do in Texas during your stay! It’s so popular that they require a reservation before you are able to show up, and you have to be prepared for reservations to fill up early!

Hamilton Pool is home to a 50-foot waterfall that will be the perfect subject of any picture, or provide the perfect background for your group photos!

Hamilton Pool is also home to the Golden-cheeked Warbler and many other various bird species. The Golden-cheeked Warbler is even pictured on their Travis County Park logo!

This is one sight you will want at the top of your itinerary!

Explore The Small Towns

One thing you have to do while in Texas is explore the small towns !

You can visit Luckenbach with a population of only 3 people, or visit the popular Prada location in Marfa! No matter which small town you choose to explore, you will find a uniqueness that can only be found in that particular town!

Many of the small towns are located near each other so you can make it a weekend trip, or take a few days and stretch from Dripping Springs to Nacogdoches!

Exploring the small towns in Texas is one way to find some of the most hidden gems that state has to offer!

Haunted Texas Road Trip

Now this one might now be for the faint of heart. A Haunted Texas Road Trip is the perfect way to test your limits and experience something you just can’t explain!

The most notable stops are the Yorktown Memorial Hospital, Lobo, Marfa, and Terlingua. Each stop has an unexplainable feeling that will make your trip memorable.

While the Marfa Prada store seems like a great place to stop, the city has an unexplainable phenomenon called the Marfa Lights which are floating bright orbs that no one has been able to explain. Not to mention in Lobo, the town has been abandoned so the isolation you might feel here will have the hairs standing on the back of your neck!

We guarantee you will want to stick around during this road trip and see what phenomena you can experience.

See The Bluebonnets

Of course one of the things in Texas you have to do is stop and look at the Bluebonnets! The official state flower is an eye-catching experience as the areas they are located create blue fields!

You can visit the Bluebonnet House in Marble Falls, or head to Ennis, just south of Dallas, to travel through the Official Bluebonnet City of Texas! In Ennis, you will see the official Texas Bluebonnet Trail and will experience hundreds of beautiful Bluebonnets!

You also have to stop in Burnet, the Official Bluebonnet Capital of Texas! If there’s any place to see the glorious fields of Bluebonnets, it’s Burnet.

Gorman Falls Waterfall

If you find yourself around Wichita, Texas, you must stop and see the Gorman Falls Waterfall!

This 650-foot waterfall is full of tiered cascading falls and is one of the most captivating things to do in Texas. This waterfall is positioned in Colorado Bend State Park, and you will have to pay the park’s entrance fee to view the falls, but it will be worth every penny!

You absolutely need to utilize the bridge and see that perfect viewing spot!

Swimming is not allowed here, but viewing the falls will make the mile-round trip hike from the parking lot completely worth it!

You can’t come to Texas without taking the time to visit Big Bend!

Located in Brewster County, Big Bend is often named “Texas’ Gift to the Nation.” You’ll have to make the trip to Big Bend National Park and spend time in the Chisos Mountains.

Here, you can stop and explore the Langford Hot Springs, or take a day hike through the park. The best time to visit Big Bend is the Spring or Fall so that it is not too hot or cold outside.

The beauty of Big Bend is one of the best things to experience in Texas, so don’t leave this off your itinerary!

Kayak at Nichol’s Landing Paddle Trail

Kayakers traveling to Texas will definitely want to add this kayaking hot spot to their list of things to do in Texas!

Nichol’s Landing Paddle Trail is located at the Upper Guadalupe River and is comprised of about 10 miles of kayaking trails.

Here you’ll see beautiful Cypress Trees and have plenty of trails to relax and spend time in the water. This kayaking hot spot is great for a 3-6 hour experience, so make sure to plan to spend a good portion of your day here!

The trail ranges from rapid and rushing to calm and serene so all skills are necessary when experiencing this trail!

Dallas Museum Of Art

The Dallas Museum of Art is one of the most elaborate museums in Texas. With art from the third millennium BC stretching all the way to present day, you’re sure to see a lot of history and even a few famous artists.

At the Dallas Museum of Art, you can see works from Jason Pollock, Andy Warhol, and Vincent van Gogh. These works have people traveling from all over to see these famous works!

They also have programs for kids and plenty of lecture series with famous authors and artists. There’s a little something for everyone at this Texas museum!

Boca Chica Beach

Located in the southernmost part of Texas, this beach is considered a hidden Texas gem.

This beach is located near Corpus Christi and South Padre Island with a huge view of the border of Mexico! At Boca Chica Beach, you’ll find the clearest water in Texas. If that doesn’t sound like reason enough to stop and check out the beach, there’s always the special wildlife to entice you!

This beach is home to the critically endangered Kemp’s Ridley Sea Turtle, and every Spring and Summer they nest on Boca Chica Beach!

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

One thing you have to experience while in Texas is the Guadalupe Mountains, National Park!

This Texas park is known for having the 4 highest peaks in Texas, and the stargazing on a clear night that is unlike anywhere else! From here, you can see over 11,000 stars and have a perfect view of the Milky Way!

You can also hike any of their numerous trails, or spend a few days camping on the land. If you’re crunched for time, you can visit their visitor’s center and spend some time in the museum!

The entrance fee to the park is $10, but worth every penny!

Castle Falkenstein

This Texas castle will feel straight out of a fairy tale!

This castle was created by Terry Young and his wife after a trip to Europe left them inspired to build a castle of their own in Texas.

Located in Burnet, part of Texas Hill Country, this castle is frequently used for privately hosted events, weddings, and even lodging rentals! If you’re looking for a fairy tale experience for your Texas trip, this castle is perfect for you!

Fall Foliage In Lost Maples State Park

If you find yourself in Texas during Fall, this location needs to be one of your first stops!

Here you’ll find Uvalde bigtooth maple trees that turn red, orange, and yellow during the fall season. The park even has a Fall Foliage Color Report that gets updated every week in November so that you can ensure you are going at a time when the colors are the most vibrant!

The park tends to fill to capacity quickly, especially the week of Thanksgiving, so make sure to head out there early!

San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is one of the most famous attractions in Texas!

The River Walk is home to numerous hotels and dining experiences that will put you right into the heart of the River Walk. The River Walk also hosts festivals and parades year round.

Some of the most notable parades are the Parade of Lanterns and the Holiday River Parade!

You can also kayak in the San Antonio River Walk between March and September!

Jacob’s Well

Jacob’s Well is located in Hays County and is one of the most popular places in Texas! The natural well area is roughly 81 acres and is open 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily!

Jacob’s Well is the second-largest submerged cave in Texas and at its deepest point reaches 140-feet deep! People from all over come here to swim, so much so that you have to make a reservation to swim in the well!

The allowed time for each swim reservation is 2 hours, so make sure you plan your day for this! You can also hike in this area, and you do not need a reservation to hike, only to swim!

A Fabulous Weekend Getaway

While in Texas, you must have a fabulous weekend getaway at The Driskill Hotel in Austin!

The Driskill Hotel is located on 6th Street, which is one of Austin’s most famous streets! This street is historic and is home to the Austin nightlife and culture! The hotel is within a 10-minute walk from the State Capital Building.

The hotel is extremely luxurious and you will feel like a royal for the entire duration of your stay! You won’t want to come to Austin without spending a weekend treating yourself to this experience!

Go Camping At Palo Duro Canyon State Park

You can’t come to Texas without a camping trip! The perfect place to pitch a tent is at Palo Duro Canyon State Park! This state park is truly one of the best things to do in Texas!

This area is known as the Grand Canyon of Texas. Located in the Texas Panhandle, this park offers campsites in multiple different areas! All campsites in the area offer electricity, but you can opt-out of using it to get the full camping experience!

No matter which campsite you stay at, you are guaranteed views of the Palo Duro Canyon! It is truly one of the best things to do in Amarillo.

Visit Jester King Brewery

Are your really in Texas if you don’t stop at a brewery while you’re there?

Jester King Brewery is located in Austin, and it is much more than just a brewery! Here they serve pizza, wine, beer, and many events for their guests!

There is a nature trail located on the 165-acre ranch, and plenty of areas to stop and enjoy the brewery experience. They also host many summer concert series and Goat Yoga!

We know you’ll enjoy this Texas brewery!

Houston Museum Of Natural Science

One of the best things to do while in Texas is to visit the Houston Museum of Natural Science! The world around you will seem so much more interesting after a visit here!

There are many permanent exhibits here such as the Cabinet of Curiosities, Cullen Hall of Gems and Minerals, and the Morian Hall of Paleontology!

Not only do they have those awesome exhibits, you’ll also need to stop by the Burke Baker Planetarium and see Lamps of Atlantis and Black Holes, two very popular exhibits!

Tour Kyle Field

Being in Texas, one of the first connections you might make is Texas football! That’s why you should take a tour at Kyle Field, the largest stadium in Texas!

This stadium is the largest ranked by its 102,000 capacity limit. It’s located at the Texas A&M campus in College Station.

The tour lasts between 45 to 60 minutes and is a cheap fun way to experience the largest home to Texas football!

Coastal Texas Road Trip

With the Gulf of Mexico nearby, it’d be a shame to not take a coastal Texas road trip!

This road trip would take you through the most popular Texas towns on the coast like Galveston, Matagorda, Corpus Christi, and South Padre Island.

At any of these stops, you can stop and explore the beaches, or take a dip in the warm waters thanks to the Gulf of Mexico!

You’ll find a uniqueness to each stop on this road trip that will keep you entertained for days!

Go To The Texas State Fair

If you’re in Texas during September or October, you must check out the Texas State Fair in Dallas!

This Texas fair is the longest-running fair in America, and even better, it is also the largest! This fair is home to Big Tex, the World’s Tallest Cowboy, and also a famous Texas icon!

Beginning in 1886, the Texas State Fair prides itself on promoting Texas traditions in Agriculture, Education, and Community Involvement.

When you’re in Texas, this will end up at the top of your list!

Visit The Fort Worth Zoo

This one is for animal lovers!

The Fort Worth Zoo is one of the oldest zoos in Texas, and is home to 540 animal species! The zoo hosts special events all the time such as field trips, weddings, holiday parties, and corporate events!

Here you can interact up close and personal with sharks and stingrays! This is one of the reasons this zoo was ranked by USA Today as the number 5 zoo in the nation!

Get ready for an animal-filled day here!

Eat At Tito’s Mexican Restaurant

Tito’s Mexican Restaurant is located in San Antonio and is a great place to experience authentic Mexican food in Texas!

Tito’s is known famously for their Margarita/Tequila Bar, as well as their fajitas and enchiladas. Here you’ll get the taste of Mexico in Texas!

This San Antonio restaurant was established in 2003 in the Historic King William District! When you’re in Texas, you’ll want to make a stop here for delicious food and Happy Hour drinks!

Bat Watch At Congress Avenue Bridge

This is one experience in Texas that you simply can’t do anywhere else!

The Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin is home to the largest urban bat colony in North America. Here, over 1.5 million bats reside during the summer before heading back to their home in Central Mexico for the fall.

The best time to view these night flyers is at dusk on any summer night! You can access the bridge for perfect viewing free of charge.

The largest bat colony in North America is waiting for you during your time in Texas!

Visit Space Center Houston

You definitely won’t want to miss out on this experience!

The Space Center Houston is one of the most popular places to visit in Texas. This is in part because it is home to NASA’s Mission Control Center!

Here, you’ll find the world’s largest collection of moon rocks, and you’ll see tons of NASA’s systems on display. If you’re here during the holidays, you’ll even get to experience Galaxy Lights, a holiday display that the center is famous for during the winter!

Start planning your trip to NASA!

The Fort Worth Stockyards

The Fort Worth Stockyards is the perfect place to feel like you’re in an old Western movie!

The Fort Worth Stockyards is the perfect place to view a true Texas rodeo. There are also concerts and western theme shops all throughout the stockyards!

You can stop at the museum and learn about the history of Fort Worth while you buy the best pair of boots you can’t find anywhere else!

Cadillac Ranch

Cadillac Ranch is one Texas location that you are able to leave your mark on the state!

Located in Amarillo, Cadillac Ranch is an iconic fixture of Cadillac vehicles stationed in the ground, with years of layering from past visitors. People come from all over to spray paint their own mark on a vehicle!

You can bring your own spray paint, or you may be lucky enough to find a can that was left behind by a previous visitor!

You can also visit the visitor center and buy jewelry made from paint chips that have come off the cars! There’s no record of how many layers of paint are currently on this fixture!

Visit The Texas State Aquarium

In 2019, this Texas aquarium was voted by USA Today as the number 4 aquarium in America!

One of the coolest things about this aquarium is the 4 bottlenose dolphins they house in their Dolphin Bay exhibit! They also have a Saving Sharks exhibit where you can track tagged sharks in real-time!

Other popular exhibits here are Jungle, Caribbean Sea, and Living Shores. Each with something to teach you about wildlife and oceanic life.

You’ll want to make sure to stop here at least once while in Texas!

Visit The Gaylord Texan At Christmas

A Texas Christmas that you’ll remember can happen at the Gaylord Texan!

While Texas isn’t known for snow, that isn’t true for the Gaylord Texan. During the holidays, this hotel offers snow tubbing, snow throwing, various snow slides, as well as its famous ICE! show.

The ICE! show is a 9-degree ice showing of a true winter wonderland. You’ll want to pack a coat and mittens for this experience!

One thing you need to do is.. remember the Alamo! You can’t come to Texas without stopping at this historic marker.

The Alamo is known as the Shrine of Texas Liberty, and there’s no doubt that this is a huge piece of Texas history! You’ll be able to take a guided tour and see everything the Alamo has to offer.

Make sure to walk through the Living History and talk to the Living Historians. Here you’ll get an up-close and personal take on what life was like during the 1800s and even learn about events surrounding the Battle of the Alamo in 1836!

Texas is one of the largest states in America, and that means there are a lot of things to experience in Texas! Whether you want to spend a weekend getaway somewhere, are looking for the best place to see various animal species, or you just want to see what makes Texas.. well Texas!

There is something unique in Texas for everyone. We know you’ll love the stops on this list!

Reader Interactions

October 10, 2023 at 9:21 pm

As a native Texan I have fond memories of most of the these. Even though I spent most of my art education career taking my students to the Dallas Museum of Art, it is not my favorite museum in Texas. The Museum of Fine Arts in Houston and the Kimbell in Ft Worth also have internationally acclaimed collections. Each have their collection of quality pieces and host international touring exhibits of masterpieces.

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9 Charming Towns To Visit In East Texas This Fall

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Fall Travel
• Outdoor Activities
• Seasonal Travel
• United States

Contrary to popular belief, Texas does have lovely fall foliage, but you’ll have to wait until later in the year to see it. When fall does arrive — usually in late October — it’s a beaut, and East Texas is where you’ll see rich autumn colors of yellow, orange, red, brown, and green from maple, oak, dogwood, and many other trees. 

Many towns in the area are getting prepared for their fall festivals, fall foliage driving trails are getting their manicure from Mother Nature, and travelers who want to experience East Texas’s rolling hills, forests of green, and cooler temperatures are making plans to visit. So get ready to plan a day trip, or better yet, an autumn getaway in this neck of the (piney) woods.

I’ve listed the best scenic towns in no particular order for a charming fall visit complete with fall foliage, scenic drives, and family fun. To me, fall is the most enjoyable time to visit Texas.

Pro Tips: If you’re coming to East Texas just to see fall colors, plan your visit in late October. In some areas, fall foliage can last until early December. But if you’re coming for the festivals, be sure to check the dates. Some can even be in September. 

When you do find yourself in East Texas during fall, be sure to meander through the back roads as much as possible for the most picturesque backdrops of what fall has to offer in this area of Texas.

1. Marshall

Marshall, Texas is better known for having the best winter light show during the holidays called Wonderland of Lights, but autumn rolls around first, and Old Stagecoach Road turns into an 8-mile fall frolic drive. It’s a narrow dirt road that begins in Marshall and ends in Karnack, Texas. Legends have it that this road is haunted, or maybe it’s just spooky.

Marshall is roughly 150 miles east of Dallas on I-20, or for the scenic route, take Highway 80. If you’re looking for things to do in town, check out historic downtown, Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery, and Karma Farms — one of the best places to go horseback riding. When I was there recently, it was just me and the owner on the trails. She showed me a great time, and I even got to trot the horse.

Pro Tip: Caddo Lake is close by and is another area with gorgeous fall foliage, plus you can take a tour on the bayou to see the hanging cypress trees. The peak time for color tends to be the end of October through late November.

2. Palestine

In mid-November, beautiful autumn colors swarm the town of Palestine , and every year visitors get their cars ready to drive the Pineywoods Autumn Trail. The trail is a 145-mile scenic road trip along breathtaking back roads in Palestine that includes historical markers and magnificent fall colors. Autumn colors are expected to arrive mid to late November.

While in town, you may want to stick around to enjoy outdoor adventures, train excursions, local cuisine, and historic shops. Also, catch a ride on the well-known Texas State Railroad , and ride it to Rusk, Texas, and back for a scenic fall tour of pinewood, rolling hills, nature, and wildlife. The railroad has a park at each end of the excursion route. 

Pro Tip: Contact Visit Palestine for foliage updates at (800) 659-3484.

The 55-mile self-guided scenic fall foliage trail through Athens has once been named the best fall foliage trail in East Texas. On this route, you’ll have a chance to visit several points of interest, including the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center and the East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society, where you can take an afternoon stroll through the gardens. If you like the adrenaline of zipping across treetops, check out New York Texas Zipline Adventure for a fun time. It’s less than a 20-minute drive from town and is also on the driving route. I’ve ziplined there twice, not in the fall, but in the summer, and it was the most thrilling zipline course my grandson and I have been on. If you’re up for it, be sure to zip the nine lines. The best is at the end!

Pro Tip: If you’d like to check out farmers markets in Athens , the last one for the year is the last weekend in October, at 212 North Palestine Street, from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

4. Nacogdoches

The town claims the title of “Garden Capital of Texas,” and with beautiful landscapes at the Mast Arboretum on the Stephen F. Austin University campus, that’s a good reason to plan a visit. The oldest town in Texas, Nacogdoches (Nac for short) is especially stunning during the fall season. Deep East Texas Fall Foliage Trail loops from Nacogdoches to Alto, Crockett, Livingston, Newton, Hemphill, San Augustine , and Shelbyville. A map of the trail is available at the visitor center located at 200 East Main Street. When planning your trip, be sure to look for the downtown art walk, vintage market days, and the several festivals in town. The best time to visit for fall foliage is in late October through early December. A year-round farmers market is held every Saturday at 107 West Pearl Street.

Pro Tip: Auntie Pasta’s Italian Restaurant is a great place to grab a pizza or pasta — all handmade.

5. Daingerfield

This town is on every list when it comes to the best towns to visit in Texas in the fall. Why? Because of the natural beauty of blazing yellow, orange, red, and pink colors of autumn you’ll see at Daingerfield State Park . In late October, the leaves start tumbling down all over the park, making way for an excellent fall backdrop. The reflections of the trees on the lake and the wildlife out there are other reasons this area is so special.

If a day visit is all you have, plan for it, but if a weekend stay is in the works, check out the cabins for rent in the park. That way, you’ll get at least 2 days to see and experience autumn at probably the best place in Texas. And don’t forget about all the hiking you could do there. The very best time to visit the park is in early to mid-November. There is a small entrance fee to enter the park.

Pro Tip: Right outside of town is The Greer Farm , which offers lovely cabins to rent overlooking a pond and free bicycle rentals. This would make a nice and quiet autumn getaway option if all the cabins in the park are full.

6. Jefferson

Jefferson, Texas , is a town that shows up on lists for the best places to stay with big Texas charm . It is a large bed and breakfast community — probably the first town to do so in Texas — and offers many fun attractions for the whole family. There is always something fun going on in town, including a Texas Bigfoot Conference. Yes, the locals swear they’ve seen Bigfoot out there a time or two. He’s so popular, it seems there’s a need for a conference!

Pro Tip: Lake O’ The Pines is a nice lake nearby that offers parks, camping, and canoe, kayak, and boat rentals, and of course, beautiful fall colors.

7. Winnsboro

Winnsboro is one of those towns you want to live in, or at least near, for the close community it seems to have and the fun activities that go on all year long. The town is well-known for its annual festivals, including its free Winnsboro Autumn Trails. Also look for a chili cook-off, antique car parade, and a trail ride. The Winnsboro Autumn Trails put this town on the map — complete with a brochure and all. There are three routes to choose from. Check with the Winnsboro Autumn Trails Association for exact routes and more information.

Highway 14 and Highway 16, or virtually any farm-to-market road, are excellent drives for fall favorites.

8. Longview

Located on I-20 between Dallas and Shreveport, this place that is well-known for its East Texas charm is easy to access. Longview , one of the largest cities in the Piney Woods region of East Texas , would be an excellent choice for a visit in the fall with the family. With gorgeous views of the Longview Arboretum & Nature Center in the fall and the events going on there in October — including a wine festival — it would certainly be my pick for a fun time.

Pro Tip: If you’re a fan of coffee, head down to the local’s favorite coffee shop, Silver Grizzly Espresso , for a cold brew, Americano, or any one of their specialty coffees.

The Rose Capital of America is none other than Tyler, Texas , and for good reason. The Tyler Municipal Rose Garden includes over 38,000 rose bushes and over 600 different varieties, and it holds the Texas Rose Festival every year in mid-October. Fall coloring may not be around for it just yet. However, when it’s time, Tyler State Park will explode into a palette of orange, yellow, and red foliage (usually in late November), but don’t be surprised if it doesn’t arrive until early December.

Pro Tip: From spring to fall, you can buy cut roses from a vendor that sells out of her van in the French Quarter Shopping Center at the corner of Loop 323 and Broadway, near Einstein Brothers Bagels. For as long as I can remember, Tyler roses have been sold on street corners in Dallas — but I just don’t see this anymore.

Related Reading:

• Beautiful State Parks To Visit In East Texas
• The 16 Most Beautiful Places To See Fall Foliage
• The Best Time To See Fall Foliage In The U.S. No Matter Where You Live

Travel writer and road trip enthusiast of My Traveling Roads , Kim Croisant, is a proud native Texan passionate about seeing the world by car, plane, train, RV — any way she can. Her travels include many road trips through Texas and beyond. Kim is raising her grandson and takes him and her Yorkie/Shih Tzu mix doggies on as many trips as possible. When she's feeling the love, she lets her darling 84-year-old mother come along as well. But her favorite way to travel is solo. When Kim's not writing, she is hiking through nature and camping in the woods in a cabin full of amenities.

Northeast Texas

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Things to Do in Northeast Texas, TX

1. Richie's Grill & Cafe

"We had a great lunch today. We loved the fried catfish, chicken fried chicken, and t..." more

2. Stanley's Famous Pit Barbecue

"WOW! This BBQ is amazing! The most negative thing I can say about this place is... I..." more

3. Red Rooster IceHouse

"This is a remarkable GEM in the middle of small-town east Texas. Food is delicious a..." more

4. Mario's Cafe

"Really great Asian food in an out of the way spot. Inside is clean & well decorated...." more

5. Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards

"Loved it!!!! Came Thursday around 5:45 pm, 7/28/22. We had a reservation and apparen..." more

6. Texas State Railroad Palestine Depot

"Brought the family to visit the Polar Express. The staff on board really went above a..." more

7. Tyler State Park

"Great place for hiking, camping, kayaking. They rent kayaks, canoes, stand up paddle ..." more

8. Brisket Love Barbecue & Icehouse

"Award winning establishment! Delicious food is an understatement. I love good Texas B..." more

Best Restaurants in Northeast Texas, TX

The Chophouse

"If you are anywhere near Mount Vernon Texas and you are hungry I wholly recommend The Chophouse on Bankhead ." See all The Chophouse reviews

"We especially loved the wedge salad, lobster Mac, and the butter cake !" See all Prime 102 reviews

Stanley's Famous Pit Barbecue

"The Reuben was great but the Mother Clucker was the best sandwich I've ever had in my life." See all Stanley's Famous Pit Barbecue reviews

Ohayo Sushi

"I've been to many sushi AYCE 's in Dallas, Houston and other big cities, and Ohayo is a cut above them all." See all Ohayo Sushi reviews

Bernard's Mediterranean Restaurant

"Recently had an excellent Sea Bass which was accompanied with mashed potatoes and Mediterranean salad." See all Bernard's Mediterranean Restaurant reviews

Brisket Love Barbecue & Icehouse

"The German potato salad is unusual and outstanding, although they warned me that most customers don't like it." See all Brisket Love Barbecue & Icehouse reviews

The Barrel House

"I was excited to find out that some of my favorite dishes from Lou Viney 's have reappeared at The Barrel House." See all The Barrel House reviews

Taste of Italy by the Lake

"It is in a beautiful sitting on the shore of Lake Hawkins ,bet the view is fabulous in the fall." See all Taste of Italy by the Lake reviews

The Q & Brew

"Service was friendly, helpful, and they even let me taste the " Mexican Stout " that was on tap." See all The Q & Brew reviews

Lola's Handcrafted Kitchen

"The Cuban sandwich is the real deal, but my friends had high praise for the TABC , the NOLA Poboy as well." See all Lola's Handcrafted Kitchen reviews

Four Winds Steakhouse

"Four Winds is an oasis of exceptional five-star dining among the ranch lands of East Texas ." See all Four Winds Steakhouse reviews

Red Rooster IceHouse

"We both ordered the Red Rooster Burger - which, to be honest was almost too big to bit into!" See all Red Rooster IceHouse reviews

"We shared the admiral platter: catfish, whitefish, shrimp, crawfish, oysters, hush puppies and a mound of fries." See all The Catch reviews

Happy's Fish House

"There was so much food, I took catfish and hush puppies to go, and they tasted great two days later in my air fryer." See all Happy's Fish House reviews

Clear Springs Restaurant

"I went for southern fried oysters, fries, hush puppies, coleslaw, and smoky pinto beans with bacon." See all Clear Springs Restaurant reviews

Villa Montez

"We also ordered the Margarita Shrimp which was fantastic, large shrimp, well seasoned and not over cooked." See all Villa Montez reviews

Nightlife in Northeast Texas, TX

"We randomly chose to enjoy a personal retreat from our him in NC and found High Hill Farm to spend a luxurious 3 nights." See all Cote reviews

Foster's Place Restaurant and Pub

"We're already talking East Texas and 2 lane roads, but that's what half the charm is." See all Foster's Place Restaurant and Pub reviews

CowBurners BBQ & Taproom

"1/2 pound of brisket, sausage, rib candy , and turkey and creamed corn, beans, green beans, and potato salad." See all CowBurners BBQ & Taproom reviews

ETX Brewing

"Great place to stop and grab a beer and have a bite with friends and family in the heart of downtown Tyler just off the square on S Broadway." See all ETX Brewing reviews

Logan’s Place

"Try the blue buffalo burger with sweet potato fries - excellent." See all Logan’s Place reviews

Neon Moon Restaurant and Social Club

" Chris removed my block from their Facebook page and urged me to give them another chance, which I did and I'm glad I did." See all Neon Moon Restaurant and Social Club reviews

"This is a great place to eat but there ain't much else in downtown Ben Wheeler ." See all The Forge reviews

" Uptown chicken seemed to have been high jacked somewhere along the way from downtown." See all Twelve reviews

Villaggio del Vino

"The pistachio crusted salmon and salad with apples, celery & incredibly fun pickled red onion was lunch two days ago." See all Villaggio del Vino reviews

Texas Music City Grill & Smokehouse

"It's not often you find gf apps but I was able to enjoy the Texas Twinkies (cheese stuffed jalapeños wrapped in bacon)." See all Texas Music City Grill & Smokehouse reviews

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It's the longest day of the year! Here's 25+ Texas things to do before sunset

Whether you're a native texan or just passing through, here's a list of very stereotypical things to do here. how many can you check off before the sun sets.

Today is the longest day of the year, and there's no better way to spend those extra daylight hours than participating in some quintessential Texas activities.

Whether you're a native Texan or just passing through, here's a list of things to do that scream "Texas." How many can you check off before the sun sets?

More: Nothing to do in West Texas? Here are 30 day trips on a tank of gas from Lubbock

Why is it the longest day of the year?

The summer solstice falls annually on June 20, marking the first official day of summer. The sun reaches its highest and northernmost points in the sky, bringing the longest period of sunlight for those in the Northern Hemisphere.

When is sunset in Texas?

Sunset times vary across the state. But from East Texas to West Texas, it ranges between 8:29 p.m. and 9:01 p.m.

More: Is Beavis and Butt-Head based in Texas? Mike Judge hints at it

Here are some things to do.

While we recognize some of these are more plausible than others, this is truly only a compilation of classic Texas activities. Remember, the goal is to cram in as many as possible on the longest day of the year.

• Eat barbecue in Lockhart
• Visit the Alamo in San Antonio
• Dance at Gruene Hall
• Eat a kolache from West, Texas
• Go to a rodeo
• Watch the Houston Astros game (on TV)
• Visit the Stockyards in Fort Worth and watch the twice-daily cattle drive
• Visit the Texas Capitol in Austin
• Go two-stepping at Billy Bob’s Texas
• Host a backyard barbecue
• Enjoy a meal along the River Walk in San Antonio
• Explore Big Bend National Park
• Visit the Magnolia Market in Waco
• Float a river
• Go wine tasting in Fredericksburg
• Visit the Fort Worth Zoo
• Watch bats fly out from under the Congress Avenue Bridge in Austin
• Visit the Sixth Floor Museum in Dallas
• Go horseback riding
• Eat Blue Bell ice cream
• Take a scenic drive through Hill Country
• Visit the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden
• Go stargazing at the McDonald Observatory
• Eat at the Big Texan Steak Ranch in Amarillo
• Visit the Perot Museum of Nature and Science in Dallas
• Visit the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library in College Station
• Drink a Dr Pepper — or maybe two
• Eat on the patio of Joe T. Garcia's in Fort Worth

(We would have added Whataburger to the list, but we all know it tastes best after sunset.)

More: Looking for something free to do in Austin this summer? We've got you.

Texas Gov. Greg Abbott issues disaster declaration as Tropical Storm Alberto approaches Mexico

The first named storm of the hurricane season strengthened slightly late Wednesday as it moved toward Mexico’s Gulf Coast, threatening rainfall of up to 20 inches there, as well as flooding and heavy rain in Texas, officials said.

Tropical Storm Alberto formed over the western Gulf of Mexico on Wednesday morning, and its center is expected to reach Mexico's Gulf coast early Thursday, according to the National Hurricane Center.

The storm is large, with tropical-storm-force winds extending out 460 miles.

The storm’s maximum sustained winds strengthened to 50 mph from 40 mph,  the National Hurricane Center  said in a 10 p.m. local time update, Once it hits Mexico, it is expected weaken rapidly as it moves inland.

The center of Alberto was about 120 miles east-southeast of Tampico, Mexico, and around 290 miles south-southeast of Brownsville, Texas, at 1 a.m. Central Standard Time, the hurricane center said Thursday. It was traveling west at about 9 mph.

Mexico’s civil protection coordination agency said late Wednesday on social media that rain was beginning to fall in Tampico, and warned people to stay inside, stay safe, and not drive during the storm.

A tropical storm warning is in effect for the northeastern coast of Mexico, as well as the Texas coast from the mouth of the Rio Grande up to San Luis Pass, which is near Houston. High winds and as much as 10 to 15 inches of rain are expected in Corpus Christi.

Gov. Greg Abbott  issued a disaster declaration  for 51 Texas counties "to ensure Texans and at-risk regions have the resources and personnel needed to respond to this storm,” he said in a statement.

The National Weather Service said moderate coastal flooding was observed across the Texas Gulf Coast as the storm approached Mexico.

Dustin Leeds and Kristine Martin, of Houston, were on vacation in Freeport, Texas, and woke up Wednesday to floodwaters that were thigh-high.

Martin woke up at around 5:30 a.m. after having heard heavy rain: “I opened the blinds and was like, ‘Huh, the ocean looks closer,’” she joked.

Residents seemed to be taking it in stride. Homes are raised in the area because of flood risk, and many people had moved their cars to safety in advance.

“Everybody’s still in their homes. There’s two other families in houses right around us that were just — they were hanging out, living their best life,” Leeds said.

A storm surge of 2 to 4 feet is possible from Sargent, Texas, to the Sabine Pass.

There could also be a few tornadoes in deep South Texas overnight Wednesday into Thursday, the weather service said.

On Thursday, the storm’s center is forecast to move west into Mexico then weaken, most likely dissipating by Thursday night, the National Hurricane Center said.

Some parts of Mexico, including Coahuila, Nuevo León and Tamaulipas, could get maximum totals of 20 inches of rain, the hurricane center said.

The Texas A&M Forest Service has mobilized four teams comprising 100 personnel and 24 vehicles, while the Texas National Guard has three platoons of more than 40 personnel in total, alongside 20 vehicles, including Chinook helicopters.

The weather service advised people in areas affected by the storm to have five to seven days' supplies of food, water and other necessities on hand.

More than 82 million people were under some form of heat advisory Wednesday. The heat wave is set to last through at least Friday.

Patrick Smith is a London-based editor and reporter for NBC News Digital.

Melissa Chan is a reporter for NBC News Digital with a focus on veterans’ issues, mental health in the military and gun violence.

Phil Helsel is a reporter for NBC News.

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The official start of summer is here, and the season is gifting us with a treat: a full Strawberry Moon.

The Strawberry Moon is the sixth full Moon of 2024 and comes the day after the summer solstice, appearing at its fullest at 9:08 p.m. EDT on Friday.

According to NASA , the Strawberry Moon — also known as the “Hot Moon” or the “Planting Moon” — will be the lowest-hanging full Moon of the year.

This is the first time in 40 years that the Strawberry Moon falls on the first day of summer.

Here is everything you need to know about the full Strawberry Moon on Friday, June 21:

What is the Strawberry Moon?

According to NASA, the Strawberry Moon’s name comes from the relatively short season for harvesting strawberries in the northeastern United States.

The Native American Algonquian tribes that lived in the northwestern U.S., as well as the Ojibwe, Dakota, and Lakota tribes used the Strawberry Moon to mark the harvesting of wild strawberries in June, according to the Almanac .

When is the best time to see the full Strawberry Moon?

The Strawberry Moon will turn full on Friday evening, June 21, at 9:08 p.m. EDT.

NASA said in a blog post that the Moon will appear full for about three days around the same time, from Thursday evening through Sunday morning.

It’s best to view a full Moon when it appears on the eastern horizon just after the sun sets in the west, so the best time to view it will be  moonrise where you are  on Friday.

In New York on Friday, June 21, sunset is at 8:31 p.m. EDT. moonrise is at 8:49 p.m. EDT, and the time of the full moon is at 9:09 p.m. EDT.

Where to see the full Strawberry Moon

The best place to view the Moon would be somewhere high up that faces east or an east-facing coast. You’ll be able to view it with just your eyes — no equipment needed.

What will the Strawberry Moon look like?

Unfortunately, the Strawberry Moon won’t be red as a strawberry. Rather, it will be a shade of gold.

Since it’s traveling at a low arc across the sky, the Earth’s atmosphere will reflect in the moonlight, giving the Moon an orange or yellow hue.

When are the rest of the full Moons of 2024?

After the Strawberry Moon comes the full Buck Moon, exactly one month later.

Here are the rest of the full Moons in 2024, according to  EarthSky.org :

• Buck Moon: July 21 at 6:17 a.m. EDT
• Sturgeon Moon:  Aug. 19 at 2:26 p.m. EDT (Full Super moon)
• Harvest Moon:  Sept. 17 at 10:34 p.m. EDT (Full Super moon on 18th)
• Hunter’s Moon:  Oct. 17 at 7:26 a.m. EDT (Full Super moon)
• Beaver Moon: Nov. 15 at 4:29 p.m. EST (Full Super moon)
• Cold Moon:  Dec. 15 at 4:02 p.m. EST

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A full ‘strawberry moon’ will light up the sky Friday night. Here’s when to see it

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Mark your calendars and turn to the sky — there will be another exciting celestial event Friday night, right after the start of summer.

The full moon, called a “ strawberry moon ” because of its pink or reddish hue, is expected to appear right after the summer solstice, which marks the onset of summer and the longest period of sunlight of the year for the Northern Hemisphere, according to NASA.

The moon is expected at 9:08 p.m. Eastern Standard Time and will be opposite to the sun, according to NASA. In Los Angeles, the moon is expected to rise at about 7:24 p.m. and reach the highest point in the sky at 12:13 a.m. Local times can be found at timeanddate.com.

The full moon only occurs within a day of the summer solstice about every 19 to 20 years, according to Space.com . This time around, the moon is expected to appear full for about three days.

Bill Anders, Apollo 8 astronaut who took iconic ‘Earthrise’ photo, dies in plane crash

Astronaut Bill Anders, who orbited the moon aboard Apollo 8 in 1968, has died in a plane crash off the coast of Washington state. His photo ‘Earthrise’ captivated the world.

June 7, 2024

The name “ strawberry moon ” comes from the Indigenous American Algonquin tribes to describe when strawberries ripen in June and are ready to be collected, according to the Farmer’s Almanac .

“Since the 2024 June full Moon happens on the solstice, the very day the Sun is absolutely at its highest of the year, this month’s full Moon on the 21st is the very lowest full Moon, indeed, the lowest we’ve seen in years,” the Almanac reported. “Just look at it! Because the Moon is so low, it will appear bigger than ever. This is called the ‘Moon Illusion.’”

The European name for this moon is the “mead” or “ honey moon ,” according to NASA. Mead, known in some countries as honey wine, is created by fermenting honey with fruits or other spices. Meanwhile, the term “honeymoon” dates back to Europe in the 1500s and references getting married in June because it’s the “sweetest” moon of the year.

The moon will take on a reddish orange color due to how low it will hang in the sky and its close proximity to the horizon. Because of how low the moon will be, that also means the sky will be darker due to lower levels of moonlight.

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Your Ultimate Guide to Plano: Explore 9 of the Best Neighborhoods in Plano TX

W ith more of us looking for better places to live – places that focus on safety, quality of life, and opportunity – many places in North Texas have sprung up on such lists in recent years – Plano being a popular choice.

But what does Plano Texas have to offer its residents?

This city flanked by other cities in the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex gives quick connections to adjoining cities while still holding its own, with scenic neighborhoods, great libraries , solid public schools and private schools, and thriving businesses.

More: Explore the cities in the DFW Metroplex

Plano utilizes part of the Dallas Area Rapid Transit (DART) system of trains, buses, and the GoLink shuttle service to navigate the city and give a way to cut the traffic and the cost into the heart of Dallas, the local airports, and many of the major businesses and sights in the metroplex.

Collin College has multiple campuses throughout the city, offering associate and bachelor’s degrees with graduate options through local partnerships. Preschool and kindergarten private education opportunities include multiple Primrose Schools and Montessori schools across the city along with the large network of campuses operated by Plano Independent School District .

The current median home price is $495,000, while the average monthly rent is close to $1,800.

The Big Questions about where to live in Plano, TX

• But where should you live in the city?
• What’s the best place to find your dream home?
• What’s the cost of living like in Plano, Texas?

Let’s look at the different areas of the city and see what it has to offer!

9 of the Best Neighborhoods in Plano TX

(Please note that the list of schools below, while extensive, is not exhaustive.)

With a growing corporate presence, high-demand shopping areas, and gorgeous urban neighborhoods, West Plano is there to meet the needs of the upscale and competitive. The area is also home now to the first H-E-B in Plano.

With prime real estate, homes range from $300,000 to over $3,000,000, with the average monthly rent for an apartment at $1,900.

Notable neighborhoods include Avignon Windhaven, Deerfield (locally famous for holiday displays), Glenhollow Estates, Indian Creek, Kings Ridge, and Shoal Creek.

·       Preschool: Canyon Creek Day School, Windhaven Academy, Parker-Chase

·       Elementary School: Barksdale, Tom Hicks

·       Middle School: Renner

·       High School: Shepton, Plano West Senior

·       Private Schools: include Prestonwood Christian Academy, Prince of Peace Catholic School, The Einstein School

·       Charter School: Lone Star Academy

If you’re looking for that slice of nature, just west of Dallas North Tollway is Arbor Hills, a densely wooded and scenic park that offers miles of pedestrian trails and multiple vistas.

Taking the western edge of the Bluebonnet Trail and following it east will connect you to further parks, trails, and recreation centers, the closest being the Tom Muehlenbeck Center.

For a more urban but relaxed feel, Granite Park Boardwalk offers good food and a cozy view.

Legacy District

As home to many businesses, including the Toyota headquarters, the Legacy District in West Plano Texas gets you close to much of Plano’s corporate heartbeat. If that weren’t enough, the Shops at Legacy meets your upscale shopping needs, and all within walking distance.

Within the Legacy West area is Legacy Hall, with a multi-story food court and a view from all floors of an open-air stage for games and performances. Apartments near the Shops begin at $1,200 a month.

The proximity to the Dallas North Tollway ensures a faster commute into Addison and Dallas (and almost a straight shot to Dallas Love Field), while the Sam Rayburn Tollway can often get you to the Dallas-Fort Worth Airport within a half-hour.

DART also has multiple bus stops in the area for transportation further south and east.

Nearby great neighborhoods include homes in the elegant Normandy Estates, a gated community with homes upward of $1,000,000-$3,000,000. Its schools are split between Lewisville and Plano ISD. Preschools include Challenger School – Legacy and TLC School.

South of the Legacy District is Windhaven Park , with a splash pad and a large dog park as some of the most notable features.

Park and Preston District

At the heart of this district lies the Preston Park Village, a sprawling community of established businesses that cover your fashion, dining, and living needs, whether it’s picking up a few essentials from HomeGoods and Petco or trying out the latest comfort food at Panera – not to mention Whole Foods, Market Street, and Trader Joe’s.

Notable neighborhoods include Gleneagles (with homes starting at $700,000) and Lakeside on Preston.

Among the zoned schools are Brinker Elementary, Centennial Elementary, Renner Middle School, and Shepton High School.

Proximity to the President George Bush Turnpike gives quick access to various parts of Plano and more of a head-start into Dallas.

Preschools include Burnham Rd KinderCare.

Willow Bend District

The established neighborhood for which the district is named focuses on quality of life and sophistication, making it one of the best neighborhoods in Plano, Texas. Homes average around $1,300,000.

Nearby are neighborhood parks, greenbelts, and playgrounds. It sits close to the Gleneagles Country Club and the Shops at Willow Bend, which offers a host of shops to meet all your food, fashion, and fun needs.

This district also adjoins the Dallas North Tollway, offering quicker access to the Dallas airports and downtown.

Roughly designated as the part of the city east of Central Expressway (or US 75), East Plano offers many quieter and more open areas, with Oak Point Park, Bob Woodruff Park, and the Sante Fe Trail all within walking distance of any neighborhood in the area, while the world-famous Southfork Ranch is just beyond the eastern edge of the city.

Closer to Central begins the DART Red Line at Parker Road Station, giving commuters an alternative to travel to Dallas (reaching the Downtown Dallas station varies from 45-60 minutes from the Parker Road Station).

Central Expressway can often get you into Dallas within a half hour. Much of East Plano focuses on affordable housing, with homes in the Los Rios neighborhood starting at around $155,000 and monthly rent averaging at $1,600.

Zoned schools include Dooley Elementary, Armstrong Middle School, C. A. McMillen High, and Plano East Senior High School, which also includes a Health Sciences Academy and IB School.

Faith Lutheran is one of the private schools.

Tucked away in the northern stretch of East Plano, Oak Point lends its name to a few places within its boundaries: the Oak Point Park and Nature Preserve , which boasts open and wooded spaces with both concrete and dirt trails as well as a Go Ape ropes course through the trees.

The Oak Point Nature and Retreat Center is a popular venue for meetings and events and the Oak Point Recreation Center is one of the many recreation centers in the city that offers fitness and opportunities (and a large pool).

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The Collin College Spring Creek campus shares a hill with the recreation center. The Red Tail Amphitheater, adjacent to the nature preserve, hosts races, music events, and other opportunities for families.

One of the most notable neighborhoods is Timberbrook, with homes ranging from $300,000 – $500,000. The area is zoned for McCall Elementary, Bowman Middle School, and Williams High School.

Historic Downtown Plano

If you’re looking for an old-town feel, look no further than Historic Downtown Plano which strives to keep much of its 19th-century aesthetic while welcoming in new businesses. Concentrated mostly on 14th and 15th Street between Jupiter and Central Expressway, this very walkable district offers a host of dining (and coffee) options and an eclectic variety of shops and salons.

The DART Red Line cuts through this district at the Downtown Plano station, offering a quick way down into Dallas and it will soon connect to the Silver Line to DFW International Airport.

There are many apartments to choose from in this area, most starting around $1,500 a month. These include Junction 15, Morada, and Ferro.

Nestled within downtown is Haggard Park, home to many events and festivals throughout the year. About a mile northeast is the Harrington Library.

Central Plano

This sprawling area offers a broad selection of neighborhoods, shops, and businesses. This area is home to most of the city’s parks and trails, such as Liberty Park and Jack Carter Park, the latter of which sits at the intersection of the Bluebonnet (which connects east and west trails) and Chisholm trails.

Carpenter Park borders West Plano, offering sports fields, a skateboard park, a recreation center, and the north-south Preston Ridge Trail.

Notable neighborhoods include Clearview, Creekdale, Forest Creek (North III and IV and Estates), Liberty Park (situated close to multiple schools), Pitman Creek, Park Forest (a couple of miles from Costco and Sam’s and less than that from two Walmarts), and Whiffletree.

The Forest Creek Neighborhoods noted above have won the best platinum neighborhood designations from the City of Plano in the last few years!

Homes generally begin at around $200,000, and the monthly rent of multiple apartment complexes averages around $1,600.

This area of the city also contains the most public schools within its zone:

·       Preschool: A+ Prep Academy, Kids Learning Center, North Custer KinderCare, Custer Road Christian Day School

·       Elementary School: Shepherd, Aldridge, Christie, Thomas, Carlisle, Mathews

·       Middle School: Wilson, Armstrong, Bowman, Carpenter, Shimelpfenig, Hendrick

·       High School: Vines, Clark, Jasper, Plano Senior High School

·       Private School: John Paul II, Ameen Academy, Spring Creek Academy (just across a creek from the Shimelpfenig Library), St. Mark Catholic School, Bethany Christian Academy

·       Charter School: Harmony Science Academy, Legacy Preparatory Charter Academy

North Plano

With proximity to Frisco , McKinney, Allen , and the Sam Rayburn Tollway, the smaller area of North Plano enjoys a quieter atmosphere while still ensuring quick access to neighboring cities and to different parts of Plano.

Situated roughly north of Hedgecoxe Road, the area offers a variety of housing through the Ridgeview neighborhoods, with homes beginning at $350,000 and apartments, such as those in Cortland North Plano, beginning at $1,200 a month.

Private schools include the Coram Deo Academy, and preschools include the Challenger School – Independence and Preston ABC Day School.

The Parker Road Station is about a 15-minute drive away, and a 30-minute drive from Downtown Dallas with the use of toll roads (Sam Rayburn and Dallas North).

Russell Creek Park is a short walk from any part of this area, and it offers both sports fields and walking trails. It is within walking distance of the Far North Plano GoLink. The Ridgeview Ranch golf course offers the perfect recreation for the weekends.

·       Elementary School: Skaggs, Wyatt, Matthews (in Plano ISD) and Riddle and Borchardt (in Frisco ISD)

·       Middle School: Rice Middle School (Plano ISD) and Fowler (Frisco ISD)

·       High School: Jasper High School

Is Plano a good place to live in Texas?

If we go off the market value of homes in the best neighborhoods in Plano TX and thousands of new residents moving to the City, we would say yes. With jobs, low crime rates, great schools, planned and well-maintained parks, trails and outdoor spaces, and great retail and entertainment options, there is little not to love.

It may not be as scenic (with exceptions like Arbor Hills and Oak Point Nature Preserve) as other places in Texas or the United States, but to raise a family and to start life as a young professional to stay long term, we think it is a good place to live.

What is the best part of Plano to live in?

This is the million dollar question and it depends on what you’re needing and looking for. The 9 of the best neighborhoods in Plano TX we have shared give you an idea of the different areas you can explore. The truth is, there is no bad area in Plano, it just needs to be the right fit for what you need.