Tyler is a vibrant city located in the heart of East Texas. With its charming downtown area, numerous parks and gardens, and rich history, Tyler is an ideal destination for visitors seeking a mix of outdoor adventure and cultural exploration.
Whether you’re a nature lover, history buff, or simply looking for a weekend getaway, Tyler has something to offer. In this article, we’ll explore some of the best things to do in Tyler, Texas, from exploring the city’s beautiful parks and gardens to immersing yourself in its rich history and culture.
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1. Discover Local History at the Smith County Historical Society Museum
The Smith County Historical Society Museum has exhibits and collections that showcase the people, events, and artifacts that have shaped the region over the past two centuries. Visitors can learn about the culture and traditions of the Caddo Indians, the impact of the Civil War and Reconstruction, and the contributions of notable residents such as Sarah Horton Cockrell and Marvin “Smokey” Montgomery.
Additionally, the museum features a research library and archives, as well as educational programming and special events. Visitors can also enjoy guided tours and interactive exhibits that bring the history of East Texas to life.
2. Explore the Caldwell Zoo 
Source: Wikimedia Commons
The Caldwell Zoo in Tyler, Texas is a popular destination with over 3,400 animals and more than 250 species. Visitors can see exotic animals up close, including elephants, giraffes, lions, tigers, and primates. Special events and exhibits include Zoo Boo, Zoolights, Breakfast with the Beasts, and the Penguin Experience.
The zoo also offers daily feedings, animal encounters, and keeper talks for an educational and fun experience.
3. Shop at the Tyler Farmers Market
The Tyler Farmers Market is a popular destination for locals and visitors looking for fresh produce, handmade crafts, and unique artisanal products. The market features over 30 vendors selling a variety of goods, including fruits and vegetables, baked goods, honey, jams, and handmade soaps. Visitors can also find artisanal products such as pottery, jewelry, and home decor. The market operates year-round, with indoor and outdoor stalls depending on the season.
You can also enjoy live music and food trucks on weekends, making the market a great destination for a leisurely morning or afternoon. Whether you’re a foodie or simply looking for a fun shopping experience, the Tyler Farmers Market is not to be missed.
4. Take a Dip at the Waterpark at the Villages Resort
The waterpark features a variety of attractions, including several water slides, a lazy river, a wave pool, and a children’s play area. Visitors can also enjoy amenities such as cabanas, food and beverage service, and a gift shop. The waterpark is open seasonally, typically from Memorial Day through Labor Day, and is a great destination for a summer day trip.
The Waterpark at the Villages Resort also offers special events and activities for visitors throughout the season.
5. Enjoy a Round of Golf at the Cascades Golf Course
Enjoy a round of golf at the Cascades Golf Course in Tyler, Texas, known for its beautiful course design and challenging play. The course features 18 holes with tree-lined fairways, rolling hills, and water hazards. Visitors can also enjoy amenities such as a driving range, putting green, and a pro shop.
The course is open to the public and offers options for golfers of all skill levels, making it a great destination for a solo round or group outing.
6. Catch a Show at the Liberty Hall
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Liberty Hall hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including movies, live music, and theatrical performances.
Visitors can enjoy a comfortable and intimate setting, with seating for up to 250 guests. The theatre also offers concessions, including beer and wine, making it a great destination for a night out.
7. Sample Local Cuisine at Stanley’s Famous Pit Bar-B-Q
A popular destination for authentic Texas-style barbecue, Stanley’s has been serving up delicious smoked meats since 1958, using traditional pit-smoking methods and homemade sauces. Visitors can enjoy a variety of meats, such as brisket, ribs, and sausage, as well as sides like potato salad, coleslaw, and mac and cheese. The restaurant also offers craft beer and live music, creating a fun and lively atmosphere.
Be sure to order one of their signature dishes—the Mother Clucker—a sandwich featuring fried chicken, cheese, and barbecue sauce on a bun. The sandwich has become a local favorite and has even been featured on national food shows. In addition to the Mother Clucker, visitors can also enjoy other popular menu items such as the brisket taco, the loaded baked potato, and the smoked turkey.
8. Take a Stroll Through the Tyler State Park
Source: Wikimedia Commons
Located just north of Tyler, Texas, Tyler State Parkoffers 985 acres of pine and hardwood forests, rolling hills, and a beautiful 64-acre lake. Visitors can enjoy a variety of outdoor activities, such as hiking, biking, fishing, and boating. The park also offers campsites and cabins for overnight stays, making it a great destination for a weekend getaway.
Spend time enjoying the park in its natural beauty, which can be seen on the many hiking trails throughout the park. The park has over 13 miles of trails, ranging from easy to challenging, and offering scenic views of the lake and forest.
9. Enjoy a Concert at the Cowan Center
The center features a variety of programming, including Broadway shows, classical music performances, and popular music concerts. Visitors can enjoy a comfortable and modern setting, with seating for up to 2,500 guests. The venue also offers concessions and a full bar, making it a great destination for a night out.
The Cowan center was founded in 2003 through a collaboration between local philanthropists and the University of Texas at Tyler, and has since become a cultural hub for the city. The center also offers educational programming and outreach, with events such as the Youth Arts Series and the Art of Peace Festival.
10. Visit the Children’s Park of Tyler
The Children’s Park of Tyler features a variety of play areas and attractions, including a splash pad, playground, and sensory garden. Visitors can also enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and a large lawn for outdoor games and activities. The park is designed to be inclusive and accessible for all children, making it a great destination for a family outing. O
In addition, the park is dedicated to promoting environmental awareness and sustainability. The park features a rain garden and solar panels, as well as educational programming on topics such as composting and conservation.
11. Explore the Tyler Museum of Art
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Explore the Tyler Museum of Art in Tyler, Texas, a cultural hub showcasing a variety of art exhibitions and collections. The museum features rotating exhibits that highlight contemporary art, as well as the works of regional and national artists. Visitors can enjoy a variety of mediums, including painting, sculpture, photography, and mixed media.
The museum’s permanent collection includes works by notable artists such as Frank Stella, Robert Motherwell, and Helen Frankenthaler.
12. Take a Brewery Tour at True Vine Brewing Company
Take a brewery tour at True Vine Brewing Company in Tyler, Texas, a local craft brewery known for its unique and flavorful beers. The brewery offers guided tours that provide a behind-the-scenes look at the brewing process, as well as tastings of their flagship and seasonal beers. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food trucks and live music on weekends, creating a fun and lively atmosphere. The brewery’s taproom is open to the public and features a comfortable and welcoming environment for visitors.
Even better, the brewery is committed to using locally sourced ingredients and supporting the Tyler community. The brewery partners with local farmers and businesses to source ingredients such as honey and fruits, and also donates a portion of its proceeds to local charities and organizations.
13. Visit the Tyler Rose Garden
The Tyler Rose Garden is a must-visit attraction in Tyler, Texas, known for its stunning display of roses and beautiful landscaping. Established in 1952, the garden is one of the largest public rose gardens in the United States, featuring over 38,000 rose bushes and more than 500 varieties of roses. The garden’s history is deeply intertwined with the city’s love for roses, and visitors can learn about this history through exhibits and events held on site.
Visitors can enjoy the beauty of the garden year-round, with the roses in full bloom from mid-April through late October. However, the best time to visit is during the Tyler Rose Festival, held annually in October. The festival is a week-long celebration of the rose industry and includes a variety of events, such as parades, concerts, and a rose show. During the festival, the garden is adorned with thousands of roses, creating a picturesque backdrop for festival-goers.
14. Attend the East Texas State Fair
The fair features a variety of attractions and activities, including carnival rides, games, and live music performances. Visitors can also enjoy a variety of food and beverage vendors, showcasing local favorites such as corn dogs, funnel cakes, and sweet tea. The fair typically runs for 10 days in late September, making it a great destination for a fall outing with family and friends.
Plus, it offers exhibits and competitions that showcase the region’s finest produce, livestock, and handmade goods. Visitors can see animals such as cows, pigs, and horses, as well as participate in activities such as the hay bale toss and the pie-eating contest.
15. Tour the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum
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Tour the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum in Tyler, Texas to explore the rich history of aviation. The museum showcases a collection of aircraft and artifacts, including military planes, helicopters, and engines. You can see unique planes, such as the P-51 Mustang and the B-25 Mitchell, and learn about their roles in history.
The museum also features exhibits on aviation technology and the role of aviation in wartime. Visitors can learn about the contributions of East Texans to aviation and the military, including the story of Tyler’s own Medal of Honor recipient, Horace Carswell Jr.
16. Take a Hike in the Tyler Nature Center
The nature center features over 2 miles of hiking trails that wind through the woods and wetlands of the region. Visitors can enjoy birdwatching, wildlife spotting, and a variety of plant species. The trails are designed to be accessible to hikers of all skill levels, with options for both short and long hikes.
Plus, the Tyler Nature Center provides a variety of educational programming and events, such as birding walks and nature camps for children. Visitors can also learn about the importance of wetland ecosystems and the efforts being made to preserve them.
17. Visit the Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum
Source: ImageTek on Flickr
Built in 1859, the house served as a residence for several prominent Tyler families before being converted into a museum in the 1960s. The house is a prime example of Greek Revival architecture and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Visitors can learn about the history of the house and its significance to the city through exhibits and guided tours.
The museum’s exhibits and collections include artifacts and furniture from the 19th century, as well as items related to the house’s former residents. Visitors can see a collection of antique clothing, quilts, and other household items, as well as a display of Civil War-era artifacts. The museum also features rotating exhibits that showcase different aspects of the city’s history and culture.
Ready for these fun things to do in Tyler TX?
Whether you’re looking to explore the city’s history and culture, enjoy the outdoors, or simply indulge in some local cuisine and entertainment, Tyler has something for everyone. From the Tyler Rose Garden to the Children’s Park of Tyler, from the Tyler Museum of Art to the Cowan Center, the city is full of unique and exciting destinations.
To make the most of your trip to Tyler, consider booking a stay at the Frankston Lakehouse, a beautiful Airbnb located just a short drive from the city. Located in Frankston, Texas, this lakefront property offers a serene atmosphere, making it the perfect place to relax and unwind after a busy day of exploring Tyler.