Longview TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Longview, Texas.
1. Gregg County Historical Museum
HISTORIC DALTON GANG SITE
The Gregg County Historical Museum showcases the rich history of Longview through collections and rotating exhibits housed in the historic Everett Building. This former bank building was once held up by the notorious Dalton Gang, adding an intriguing layer of history to the museum experience. The museum welcomes visitors Tuesday through Saturday, offering a fascinating glimpse into the area's past.
2. Longview Museum of Fine Arts
ART AND CULTURAL HUB
The Longview Museum of Fine Arts houses over 400 works including intaglio, lithographs, sculptures, and paintings in a charming downtown setting. Beyond the permanent collection, the museum hosts special events such as yoga classes and seasonal celebrations like 'Breakfast with Santa' throughout the year. Visitors can explore this cultural treasure Tuesday through Saturday to appreciate the local and regional artistic heritage.
3. Jack Mann Splash Pad
FREE FAMILY WATER FUN
The Jack Mann Splash Pad offers 10,000 square feet of cooling water features perfect for hot Texas summers. This family-friendly destination includes convenient amenities such as a concession stand, pavilions, and restrooms for a complete day of outdoor enjoyment. Best of all, admission to the splash pad is completely free, making it an accessible option for everyone looking to beat the heat.
4. G-Force Indoor Kart & Trampoline Park
HIGH-ENERGY ENTERTAINMENT COMPLEX
G-Force is East Texas' premier indoor entertainment venue featuring go-karts and trampolines in a massive 40,000 square foot facility on the north side of Longview. The complex offers multiple lounges where parents can relax with beverages and snacks from the concession stand while children play. G-Force specializes in hosting birthday parties and team events, making it a popular destination for celebration and fun throughout the year.
5. Veterans Plaza and Vietnam Wall Replica
SOLEMN MEMORIAL TRIBUTE
The Veterans Plaza and Vietnam Wall Replica stands as one of Longview's most significant monuments honoring those who served in the armed forces. This reverent site features a replica of the Vietnam Veterans Memorial Wall, allowing visitors to pay respects without traveling to Washington D.C. The plaza serves as an educational resource and place of reflection for the community and visitors alike.
6. Longview World of Wonders
INTERACTIVE LEARNING ENVIRONMENT
Longview World of Wonders offers an interactive educational experience designed to spark curiosity and imagination in visitors of all ages. Through hands-on exhibits and engaging activities, the venue encourages exploration of science, culture, and creative thinking. This family-friendly attraction serves as both an entertaining destination and a valuable supplement to traditional classroom learning.
7. Paul Boorman Trail
URBAN NATURE ESCAPE
The Paul Boorman Trail provides Longview residents and visitors with a scenic pathway for walking, jogging, and cycling through natural settings within the city. This well-maintained trail system connects various neighborhoods and parks, offering a convenient outdoor recreation option for fitness enthusiasts. The trail's accessibility and natural beauty make it a popular destination for those seeking a peaceful retreat from urban surroundings.
8. Longview Mall
PREMIER SHOPPING DESTINATION
Longview Mall features over 70 retailers including major department stores like Dillard's and JCPenney alongside popular specialty shops such as Victoria's Secret, Buckle, and Francesca's. The shopping center also offers numerous dining options ranging from quick bites at Chick-fil-A and Auntie Anne's to sit-down restaurants like BJ's Brewhouse and On The Border. Located at the intersection of McCann Road and West Loop 281, the mall serves as the retail hub for Longview and surrounding communities, operating seven days a week with extended hours.
9. Longview Symphony
CLASSICAL MUSIC EXCELLENCE
The Longview Symphony enriches the cultural landscape of East Texas through exceptional orchestral performances throughout their concert season. Professional musicians deliver classical masterpieces and innovative programming to entertain and educate audiences of all ages. The symphony represents a cornerstone of Longview's performing arts community, demonstrating the city's commitment to cultural excellence.
10. Longview Towne Crossing
DIVERSE RETAIL EXPERIENCE
Longview Towne Crossing offers a comprehensive shopping experience on North Eastman Road with major retailers including Kohl's, Target, and Old Navy. Specialty stores like James Avery Jewelers, PetSmart, and Lane Bryant provide diverse shopping options for visitors with specific needs. This shopping center serves as an important retail destination for Longview residents and those from surrounding communities looking for national brand retailers in East Texas.
11. 80acreMarket
RURAL SHOPPING EXPERIENCE
80acreMarket provides a unique country shopping experience approximately 12 miles north of downtown Longview in a picturesque rural setting near Gilmer. Visitors can enjoy a combination of shopping, dining, and live music during selected weekend events throughout the year. The market's charming atmosphere and family-friendly environment make it worth the short drive from Longview for those seeking a more relaxed alternative to traditional retail centers.
12. Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards
WINE AND DINING DESTINATION
Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards offers a taste of Texas wine country within driving distance of Longview, featuring estate-grown wines and a restaurant in a scenic setting. Visitors can enjoy wine tastings, tours of the vineyard, and live music events throughout the year. The combination of quality wines, excellent cuisine, and beautiful surroundings makes Los Pinos a popular weekend destination for Longview residents seeking a nearby getaway.
13. Fairhaven Vineyards
BOUTIQUE WINERY EXPERIENCE
Fairhaven Vineyards produces award-winning wines in the East Texas countryside, offering visitors a more intimate wine tasting experience than larger operations. The family-owned vineyard specializes in varieties well-suited to the regional climate, creating distinctive wines that reflect local terroir. Wine enthusiasts from Longview can enjoy tastings, vineyard tours, and special events throughout the year at this hidden gem in nearby Hawkins.
14. Opera East Texas
REGIONAL OPERATIC PERFORMANCES
Opera East Texas brings professional operatic productions to Longview, enriching the cultural landscape of the entire region. The company presents classic and contemporary works featuring talented performers from across the country and around the world. Since its founding, Opera East Texas has maintained a commitment to both artistic excellence and educational outreach, making this sophisticated art form accessible to East Texas audiences.
15. Longview Ballet
CLASSICAL DANCE TRADITION
Longview Ballet presents exquisite dance performances throughout the season, including beloved classics and innovative contemporary works. The company features talented dancers of various ages, showcasing both professional and pre-professional performers from the East Texas region. In addition to performances, Longview Ballet offers dance education programs that develop technical skills and artistic expression for students at all levels.