Jefferson, Texas
The town of Jefferson, Texas is where history comes alive with its nineteenth-century charm and restored Victorian mansions. Jefferson is located just east of Dallas, near Shreveport in the Piney-Woods region, which is named for its millions of pine forest and wetland acreage. The town delights all who visit with its historic charm and Jefferson, Texas lodging facilities brings romance and an escape from everyday life.
Jefferson, Texas is one of the most historic towns in the state and has over thirty structures that bear state historical medallions. The town offers an endless variety of recreational activities, including visiting historical sites, canoeing, hiking, fine restaurants and shopping. Porch-sitting is an art form in Jefferson, Texas and many locals will be practicing this as you stroll down the quaint streets to browse in one of the many antique shops.
Activities
For the outdoor enthusiasts, Jefferson offers fishing in Caddo, and bird watching or leisurely strolls along dozens of nature trails. For those who want to pick up the pace, Lake O' the Pines offers an opportunity to water-ski or swim. You can even venture onto the Big Cypress Bayou in a canoe or paddleboat, or if you don't like to captain the boat, you can charter a ride aboard a steamboat, riverboat or the 30-foot Suntracker Party Hut!
If your visit is timed just right, you may be able to take part in one of the many decadent Cochon D'lait (pig roasts), sumptuous BBQs or mouth-watering crawfish boils. Throughout the year Jefferson holds many festivals including Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras, Rod Run, Candlelight and Pilgrimage. In addition to the fine dining and many shops, historic Jefferson offers golfing, recreational lakes, and casinos are close-by.
History
Jefferson, Texas abounds in history. There are historical markers everywhere and many museums to bring you back in time. Three churches actually worship in sanctuaries that were built well over a century ago. Jefferson, Texas was once known as the "Queen City of the Republic of Texas." It was established in 1845 and at the time, was a bustling steamboat destination just upriver from New Orleans. The boats would come up the Mississippi River into Red River, through Caddo Lake, and up Big Cypress to what was known as the "Turning Basin."
Jefferson had the prime distinction of being the only dependable port in Northern Texas, carrying cotton, dry hides and many other materials, as well as animals. Many wealthy planters migrated to Jefferson and settled on the bayou with their families and slaves. Shortly thereafter, a new cotton kingdom was born and Jefferson became an East Texas metropolis. One of the early settlers of Jefferson, Texas was Captain William Perry, who arrived with the first stern-wheeler in 1844. He was the owner/builder of the world famous Excelsior Hotel. From there, Jefferson, Texas lodging increased and more lodging facilities sprung up.
Historic Jefferson, Texas Lodging
You can stay in one of many charming and historic Jefferson, Texas lodging facilities for your romantic interlude or you getaway vacation. The air is sweet and the views are spectacular! Jefferson is nestled amidst acres of whispering pine woods and offers a secluded world all of its own. Jefferson, Texas lodgings offer romantic, peaceful nights in beautiful mansions, Victorian cottages, Inns, lake cabins, and more that will take you back in time to the 1800's.
Jefferson, Texas lodging facilities allows visitors to experience the best of the history, excitement and soul-wrenching grandeur of Texas. Jefferson, Texas lodgings includes being known as the "Bed and Breakfast Capital of East Texas," (listed under the 75th Legislature) for its many fine Bed & Breakfasts (over 60 of them), including the Excelsior House Hotel and Pride House, and for its success in historic preservation of antebellum homes. We at the Jefferson Texas Lodging site hope you enjoy your visit with us and invite you to stay awhile! Learn more about what Jefferson, Texas has to offer and additional historical facts.
Read Next 5 Articles
Jefferson Texas
Jefferson Texas Bed And Breakfast
Jefferson Texas Hotel
Jefferson Texas Lodging Options
About Jefferson County Texas