Tyler TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Tyler, Texas.
1. Caldwell Zoo
WILDLIFE IN NATURAL HABITATS
Caldwell Zoo is a popular Tyler attraction featuring expansive natural habitats for a diverse collection of animals including a white tiger, bison, and a noted cheetah breeding program. Visitors can explore the various exhibits and look forward to the anticipated Amazon exhibit. The zoo provides an educational and entertaining experience for families and animal enthusiasts alike.
2. Tyler Rose Garden & Center
AMERICA'S ROSE CAPITAL
The Tyler Municipal Rose Garden spans 14 scenic acres with more than 32,000 vibrant rose bushes representing over 500 varieties. Well-tended paths wind between rows of rose bushes, ornate fountains, and sparking pools, creating a breathtaking green space to explore. The garden welcomes plant enthusiasts with free admission seven days a week from dawn until dark.
3. Tyler State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Tyler State Park offers visitors a beautiful natural escape with activities ranging from hiking and biking to fishing and boating. The park features a popular swimming area that becomes especially crowded during the summer months. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the park's diverse ecosystem while families can take advantage of picnic areas and camping facilities.
4. The 1859 Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum
HISTORIC VICTORIAN MANSION
The 1859 Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum is a beautifully preserved Victorian-style home that offers visitors a glimpse into Tyler's past. Knowledgeable staff greet visitors and share the rich history of the property and the family behind it. The museum houses a collection of period furnishings, artifacts, and memorabilia that tell the story of this historic Tyler residence.
5. Bonner-Whitaker McClendon House
VICTORIAN HISTORICAL LANDMARK
The Bonner-Whitaker McClendon House is a gorgeous 19th-century Victorian-style home that was once occupied by Sarah McClendon, one of the most important female journalists of the 20th century. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits displaying a wide variety of memorabilia from the McClendon family, who occupied the house for more than 100 years. Tours are available on Fridays and Saturdays, with special living history presentations held each Saturday in October.
6. Tyler Museum of Art
CULTURAL ART HUB
The Tyler Museum of Art serves as a cultural centerpiece for the city, showcasing both permanent and rotating exhibitions of fine art. The museum offers visitors the opportunity to experience a diverse range of artistic styles, mediums, and periods in an elegant setting. Educational programs and events are regularly hosted to engage the community and foster appreciation for the arts.
7. Discovery Science Place
HANDS-ON LEARNING CENTER
Discovery Science Place provides an interactive learning environment where children and families can engage with science through hands-on exhibits and activities. The center features a variety of educational displays designed to spark curiosity and promote understanding of scientific principles. Special programs and events throughout the year offer additional opportunities for exploration and discovery.
8. Cotton Belt Depot Museum
RAILROAD HISTORY PRESERVED
The Cotton Belt Depot Museum is housed in a restored historic train station that once served as a hub for the St. Louis Southwestern Railway. Visitors can explore exhibits featuring railroad memorabilia, photographs, and artifacts that chronicle Tyler's important role in the region's transportation history. The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the era when railroads were vital to the development and economy of East Texas.
9. Camp Ford Historic Park
CIVIL WAR PRISON CAMP
Camp Ford Historic Park preserves the site of the largest Confederate prisoner-of-war camp west of the Mississippi River during the Civil War. Interpretive displays and reconstructed structures help visitors understand the conditions and experiences of the Union soldiers held captive there. The park serves as an important historical landmark and educational resource about this significant chapter in American history.
10. American Freedom Museum
PATRIOTIC HISTORICAL COLLECTION
The American Freedom Museum offers visitors an immersive journey through American military history with extensive exhibits featuring artifacts, documents, and personal stories. The museum honors veterans and educates the public about the sacrifices made to preserve American freedom through various conflicts. Interactive displays and thoughtfully curated collections create a meaningful experience for visitors of all ages.
11. Bergfeld Center
UPSCALE SHOPPING DISTRICT
Bergfeld Center is one of Tyler's premier shopping destinations featuring a collection of upscale boutiques, specialty stores, and dining options. The center offers a pleasant outdoor shopping environment with a mix of local businesses and recognized brands. Shoppers can find everything from fashion and home goods to gourmet foods and gifts in this centrally located retail district.
12. Azalea District
HISTORIC FLORAL NEIGHBORHOOD
The Azalea District is a charming historic neighborhood in Tyler known for its spectacular seasonal displays of azalea blooms and stately homes. During the annual Azalea & Spring Flower Trail, thousands of visitors walk or drive through the district to admire the vibrant colors and meticulous landscaping. Beyond the flowering season, the area remains a picturesque example of Tyler's architectural heritage with its collection of well-preserved historic homes.
13. Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival
BARBECUE AND LIVE MUSIC
The Red Dirt BBQ & Music Festival is an annual event in downtown Tyler that attracts thousands of visitors with its combination of Texas barbecue and live music performances. Festival-goers can sample offerings from some of the state's top barbecue establishments while enjoying performances from renowned artists in the Red Dirt music genre. The popular event has become a signature Tyler experience that showcases the region's food and musical culture.
14. Tyler Planetarium
ASTRONOMICAL WONDER CENTER
The Tyler Planetarium offers visitors the opportunity to explore the wonders of the universe through immersive astronomical presentations and exhibits. State-of-the-art projection technology creates stunning visual experiences that educate audiences about stars, planets, and cosmic phenomena. Regular programs cater to different age groups and interests, making astronomy accessible and exciting for the entire community.
15. Texas Rose Horse Park
EQUESTRIAN EVENTS COMPLEX
The Texas Rose Horse Park is a premier equestrian facility that hosts a variety of competitive events, shows, and the popular annual Cattle Barons Gala fundraiser for the American Cancer Society. The expansive complex features multiple arenas, stabling facilities, and spectator areas for horse enthusiasts and competitors. Beyond equestrian activities, the venue serves as an important community gathering place for charitable events and celebrations throughout the year.