By Rebekah Burton
East Texas is a wide-open space full of prairies, lakes, pine trees and wildlife. Tucked away among the nature are historic homes, wineries and entertainment. Whether you want a low-key
romantic getaway or a family-friendly environment, East Texas offers a little fun for everyone.
Tyler Area
Tyler is known for the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden, a 14-acre site full of more than 400 varieties of roses. The city dubbed "America's Rose Capital" also houses the Tyler Rose Museum. History enthusiasts will enjoy the 1859 Goodman-LeGrand Home and Museum, a historic home that also features a rose garden. The Caldwell Zoo is an 85-acre park featuring animals from North and South America and Africa. According to the Tyler Convention and Visitor's Bureau, nearby wineries include the Kiepersol Winery in Bullard and the Los Pinos Ranch Vineyards in Pittsburgh.
Jefferson Area
Jefferson is known among Texans for its antique shops, bed and breakfasts, and historic homes. Area attractions include the Historic Jefferson Railway, which offers ghost tours and Scarlett O'Hardy's Gone With the Wind Museum, one of the largest private collections of memorabilia from the movie. Jefferson offers something different every season, from summertime riverboat bayou tours to the annual Christmas candlelight tour of homes. The Marion County Chamber of Commerce lists nearby Linden for enjoying live music at the Music City Texas Theater.
Nacogdoches Area
Nacogdoches' downtown features antique shops and family-owned specialty stores. Wildlife enthusiasts will enjoy a drive through the Cherokee Trace Safari, listed on the Nacogdoches website as a place to explore exotic and endangered species. The Nacogdoches area is full of opportunities for those who enjoy horseback riding, gardens, golf and birdwatching. Lake Nacogdoches has park areas on both sides that have fishing and picnic areas, boat ramps, hiking and playgrounds. To round out your visit, consider the Stephen F. Austin University Planetarium, which often presents events for the public.
Resources
About the Author:
Rebekah Burton has been writing since 2000. Her devotional has been featured in "The Secret Place," and a short story, "Gemma's Box" has been accepted for publication at "Haruah: Breath of Heaven." Burton holds a Bachelor of Science in business with a minor in English from Texas A&M Commerce. Burton later completed credits toward a Master of Arts in English/Linguistics.
