Brownsboro TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Brownsboro, Texas.
1. Jefferson Carnegie Library
HISTORIC LITERARY LANDMARK
The Jefferson Carnegie Library stands as one of the historic treasures in East Texas, built with funds from Andrew Carnegie. Visitors can explore this architectural gem while enjoying the rich literary history it represents. The library continues to serve the community while preserving its historical significance.
2. Jay Gould's Railroad Car
GILDED AGE LUXURY
Jay Gould's Railroad Car offers visitors a glimpse into the opulent travel accommodations of one of America's most powerful railroad tycoons. The meticulously preserved private car showcases the luxury that defined the Gilded Age railroad era. Guests can tour this historic vehicle and learn about Gould's significant impact on the development of railroads in Texas.
3. Caddo Lake Steamboat Tours
MYSTICAL BAYOU EXPERIENCE
Caddo Lake Steamboat Tours provides a magical journey through the only natural lake in Texas, traveling among ancient cypress trees draped with Spanish moss. The steamboat experience recreates the historic transportation method that once connected Jefferson to the Mississippi River and made it a bustling port. Passengers will learn about the rich ecosystem and the fascinating history of this mysterious waterway.
4. First Monday Trade Days
LEGENDARY OUTDOOR MARKET
First Monday Trade Days in Canton is one of the largest and oldest continually operating outdoor markets in the United States. Spanning hundreds of acres, this massive flea market features thousands of vendors selling everything from antiques and collectibles to handcrafted items and fresh produce. Visitors from across the country flock to this monthly event that has been a Texas tradition since the 1850s.
5. East Texas Oil Museum
BLACK GOLD HISTORY
The East Texas Oil Museum chronicles the discovery of the East Texas Oil Field and the subsequent oil boom that transformed the region. Elaborate dioramas and recreated scenes transport visitors back to the early 1930s when the area experienced unprecedented growth and prosperity. The museum features a wealth of artifacts, equipment, and multimedia presentations that tell the story of how oil changed East Texas forever.
6. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center
AQUATIC LEARNING ADVENTURE
The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center combines a hatchery, laboratory, aquarium, and educational center dedicated to freshwater fishing and conservation. Visitors can view native Texas fish species in natural habitats through underwater viewing windows and participate in fishing at the stocked casting pond. The center also offers daily dive shows, tram tours of the hatchery facilities, and interactive exhibits about Texas aquatic ecosystems.
7. East Texas Arboretum
NATURAL WOODLAND SANCTUARY
The East Texas Arboretum spans 100 acres of woodland beauty featuring native plants, walking trails, and scenic gardens. Visitors can explore the historic Wofford House Museum, cross the longest footbridge in East Texas, and discover the tranquil reflection ponds throughout the property. The arboretum hosts seasonal events and educational programs that highlight the natural beauty and ecology of East Texas.
8. Texas State Railroad
HISTORIC RAIL JOURNEY
The Texas State Railroad offers an unforgettable journey aboard vintage steam and diesel locomotives traveling between Palestine and Rusk. Passengers experience the golden age of rail travel while winding through the picturesque Piney Woods of East Texas. This historic railroad, once used for moving timber and supplies, now serves as a living history attraction with special themed excursions throughout the year.
9. Davey Dogwood Park
SPRINGTIME FLORAL SPECTACLE
Davey Dogwood Park transforms into a breathtaking natural display when thousands of dogwood trees burst into bloom each spring. The 254-acre park features scenic driving routes, hiking trails, and picnic areas all surrounded by the delicate white and pink blossoms that attract visitors from across Texas. During the annual Dogwood Trails Festival, the park becomes the centerpiece of Palestine's celebration of spring featuring tours, events, and activities.
10. Splash Kingdom Water Park
FAMILY WATER ADVENTURE
Splash Kingdom Water Park offers a refreshing escape with numerous water slides, wave pools, and splash zones for all ages. Families can enjoy a full day of aquatic fun with attractions ranging from thrilling high-speed slides to relaxing lazy rivers. The water park provides amenities including cabana rentals, dining options, and regular special events throughout the summer season.
11. Lake Brownwood State Park
HISTORIC OUTDOOR RECREATION
Lake Brownwood State Park, built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, offers a historic outdoor experience with activities centered around its 7,300-acre reservoir. Visitors can enjoy swimming, fishing, boating, and hiking while staying in updated cabins or camping areas throughout the park. The park is known for its CCC-constructed buildings including outdoor living rooms and dance halls that showcase the distinctive rustic architecture of the era.
12. Martin & Frances Lehnis Railroad Museum
TRAIN HISTORY COLLECTION
The Martin & Frances Lehnis Railroad Museum preserves the rich railroad heritage of Central Texas through an extensive collection of artifacts and memorabilia. Visitors can board authentic train cars including a caboose and sleeper car that provide an immersive experience of rail travel from bygone eras. The museum features impressive model train displays that delight visitors of all ages alongside education exhibits about the importance of railroads to Texas development.
13. Michelson Museum of Art
CULTURAL ART COLLECTION
The Michelson Museum of Art houses an impressive collection of works by Russian-American artist Leo Michelson alongside rotating exhibitions of regional and national artists. The museum provides cultural enrichment to East Texas through its permanent collection of over 1,000 pieces including paintings, drawings, and sculptures. Visitors can enjoy guided tours, workshops, and special events that celebrate the visual arts in an intimate gallery setting.
14. Christmas Wonderland of Lights
DAZZLING HOLIDAY DISPLAY
Christmas Wonderland of Lights transforms downtown Marshall into a magical holiday spectacle with millions of twinkling lights adorning the historic Harrison County Courthouse and surrounding square. This annual festival runs from late November through December, featuring animated displays, horse-drawn carriage rides, an outdoor ice skating rink, and special events. Visitors from across the region make the pilgrimage to this enchanting celebration that has become one of the premier holiday attractions in East Texas.
15. Longview Museum of Fine Arts
CONTEMPORARY ART SHOWCASE
The Longview Museum of Fine Arts showcases contemporary works with a focus on Texas and Southwestern artists in its downtown gallery space. The museum maintains a permanent collection of paintings, sculptures, and photography while also hosting rotating exhibitions throughout the year. Visitors can participate in art classes, gallery talks, and special events designed to engage the community with visual arts.