Reno Lamar County TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Reno Lamar County, Texas.
1. Eiffel Tower Paris Texas
ICONIC PARISIAN REPLICA
The Eiffel Tower Paris Texas is a landmark constructed in 1993 as a model of the famous Eiffel Tower in Paris, France. This iconic structure has become a symbol of the city and a popular photo opportunity for visitors. The tower stands as a unique cultural attraction that represents the city's namesake connection to the French capital.
2. Trail de Paris
SCENIC PAVED PATH
The Trail de Paris runs for just over 3 miles from Paris eastward into the beautiful East Texas countryside. The paved route follows a lovely corridor of shade trees, crossing bridges along a former railroad right-of-way with amenities including benches, viewing platforms, mile markers, and interpretive signs. This trail offers access to a butterfly garden, junior college, neighborhoods, and parks, connecting on its eastern end to the Reno Rail-Trail.
3. Reno Rail-Trail
RURAL COUNTRYSIDE PATH
The Reno Rail-Trail extends the Trail de Paris another five miles into Reno, Texas. This trail is part of the growing Northeast Texas Trail network which will eventually stretch 132 miles across seven counties. The trail offers visitors a chance to explore the rural Texas countryside on a well-maintained path suitable for walking, jogging, and cycling.
4. Red River Valley Veterans Memorial Museum
HONORING MILITARY SERVICE
The Red River Valley Veterans Memorial Museum is a tranquil memorial garden with poignant statues honoring military service across all war eras. Visitors can explore the outdoor setting which offers a serene atmosphere near the iconic Eiffel Tower replica. The museum serves as an important historical site preserving the stories and sacrifices of local veterans.
5. Paris Town Square
HISTORIC DOWNTOWN CENTER
Paris Town Square serves as the historic heart of downtown Paris, Texas with architecture reflecting the city's history dating back to its incorporation in 1845. The square features shops, restaurants, and community spaces that showcase the city's character and charm. Visitors can enjoy the fountain and gathering spaces that make this a central hub for both locals and tourists.
6. Evergreen Cemetery
HISTORIC BURIAL GROUNDS
Evergreen Cemetery is a historic burial ground in Paris, Texas that preserves the final resting places of many notable local figures. The cemetery features historic monuments, mature trees, and well-maintained grounds that reflect the area's heritage. Visitors interested in genealogy and local history often explore the paths through this peaceful and historically significant site.
7. Love Civic Center
COMMUNITY EVENTS VENUE
The Love Civic Center serves as Paris's primary venue for community gatherings, conventions, and special events. The facility offers versatile spaces that can accommodate everything from small meetings to large-scale exhibitions and performances. Visitors to Paris will find the center hosts many of the city's annual events and celebrations throughout the year.
8. Lake Gibbons
HISTORIC WATER RESERVOIR
Lake Gibbons is a small artificial lake located on Pine Creek four miles northwest of Paris in central Lamar County. Built in 1911 as a water source for the City of Paris, the reservoir has a capacity of 3,600 acre-feet. The lake is accessible via County Road 33060 and offers opportunities for fishing and enjoying the natural surroundings.
9. Sam Bell Maxey House
HISTORIC HOME MUSEUM
The Sam Bell Maxey House preserves the historic home of Confederate General and U.S. Senator Sam Bell Maxey in Paris, Texas. This Victorian-style house showcases period furnishings and artifacts that give visitors insight into 19th-century life in Northeast Texas. The well-preserved property offers guided tours that highlight the architectural details and historical significance of this prominent figure's residence.
10. Paris Junior College
EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTION CAMPUS
Paris Junior College is a comprehensive educational institution serving the academic needs of Lamar County and surrounding areas. The campus features well-maintained grounds, academic buildings, and facilities for arts and athletics programs. Visitors can enjoy cultural events, sports competitions, and educational opportunities offered by this important community anchor.
11. Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site
POLITICAL LEADER'S HOME
The Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site preserves the 1916 home of Congressman Sam Rayburn, the longest-serving Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. This National Historic Landmark remains virtually untouched, still holding the original furniture, photographs, and the congressman's personal belongings. Visitors can tour this influential statesman's house which is both a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark and listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
12. Sam Rayburn Library and Museum
CONGRESSIONAL LEGACY COLLECTION
The Sam Rayburn Library and Museum was commissioned by Congressman Rayburn as a tribute to the people of Fannin County after being awarded $10,000 for distinguished service to the nation. Opened in 1957, the museum houses a replica of the Speaker of the House of Representative's office during Rayburn's tenure. This Texas Historic Landmark provides visitors with insight into the life and career of one of America's most influential political figures.
13. Bonham State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION AREA
Bonham State Park includes and surrounds a scenic 65-acre lake southeast of Bonham, Texas. Created by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, the park provides ample water recreation activities, camping, and hiking or biking on nearly nine miles of trails. Visitors can enjoy the natural beauty of East Texas while taking advantage of facilities for swimming, fishing, and picnicking throughout the park.
14. Fannin County Courthouse
HISTORIC GOVERNMENT BUILDING
The 1888 Fannin County Courthouse originally embodied the Second Empire architectural style with its elaborate roof and clock tower. In 1965, the building was covered with limestone and modernized to mimic an unadorned Art Deco building, but recent bond proposals have ensured its restoration to original 1888 grandeur. The courthouse restoration is now underway as part of the Texas Historical Commission's Texas Historic Courthouse Preservation Program.
15. Paris Bakery
LOCAL CULINARY INSTITUTION
Paris Bakery has established itself as a beloved culinary institution serving fresh-baked goods to locals and visitors alike. The bakery offers a selection of traditional pastries, breads, and specialty items that showcase both local flavors and time-tested recipes. Visitors to Paris often stop by this establishment to enjoy breakfast treats, desserts, or take home baked goods as edible souvenirs of their time in the city.