Lufkin, Texas, is a beautiful town with lots of fun activities – and this article highlights some of the best and fun things to do in Lufkin, TX.
The city of Lufkin is located in East Texas and is known for its forests. It has a wide range of recreational activities and parks.
This area has a variety of grocery stores and restaurants, and it is an excellent location for families. There are also a lot of fun activities for kids, such as festivals and carnivals.
Let’s learn more about the various tourist attractions in Lufkin, Texas!
Where is Lufkin, Texas?
The city of Lufkin is located in Texas Angelina County and is the county seat. It has a population of 35,021.
Located 60 miles west of the Louisiana border, it is one of the largest cities in the state.
The city of Lufkin was founded in 1884 and was named after Abraham P. Lufkin, who was a railroad stop.
It was incorporated in October 1890. During this time, three businessmen established the Angelina Lumber Company.
This led to the establishment of many economic activities in the city.
After the timber boom ended, the city began a new golden era of expansion.
During this period, the construction of the Southland Paper Mill and the opening of the Lufkin Industries led to the development of a more industrial area.
In the mid-1960s, various cultural activities were carried out in the city.
Fun Things to Do in Lufkin, TX
1. Texas Forestry Museum
Although the headquarters of the four national forests in Texas are in the city of Lufkin, the other two are far away.
The Texas Forestry Museum is a great place to learn about the history of forestry in the state.
Besides being able to exhibit and explain the various natural resources that the forest has, the museum also provides a variety of outdoor trails and exhibits.
One of the most popular exhibits at the museum is a money tree, which displays the various types of tree products used in the past.
Also, Timber Town features a variety of educational exhibits. Kids can pretend to be sawmill operators while learning more about how they worked.
Address: The Texas Forestry Museum is located at 1905 Atkinson Drive, Lufkin, TX 75901, United States.
2. Buck’s Cup of Joe
Buck’s Cup of Joe is a modern coffee shop serving the best in town.
The staff members use the finest coffee beans and are dedicated to providing the best possible service. Besides coffee, they also offer iced and hot tea.
Although they offer both coffee and tea, customers can also enjoy a cup of hot chocolate if they want it without coffee. The shop is open from Monday to Friday.
Address: The Buck’s Cup of Joe is located at 2584 Ted Trout Dr, Lufkin, TX 75904, United States.
3. Pawsitive Animal Encounters
Pawsitive Animal Encounters is a private zoo in Texas that holds a collection of exotic animals, such as snakes, crocodiles, and tortoises.
The animals are taken good care of by experts and kept in an environment comfortable for them.
A zoo is an excellent place for kids and animal lovers. It’s also a great way to meet and feed the animals. It can be added to your local tour schedule in Lufkin.
Address: The Pawsitive Animal Encounters is located at 4719 Peavy Switch Rd. Lufkin, TX 75904, USA.
4. Explore Downtown Lufkin
The historic downtown area of the city of Lufkin is a great place to explore if you’re looking for something fun.
There are a variety of restaurants that serve international cuisines and Southern-style dishes.
One of the most popular restaurants in the area is the Manhattan Fine Dining Restaurant, which features a variety of Italian and American dishes.
Another great place to enjoy is the Rays Drive-In, which is a 1950s-style establishment that serves healthy and satisfying food.
Address: The Explore Downtown Lufkin is located in Lufkin, Texas, USA.
5. Museum of East Texas
The East Texas Museum was originally an Anglican Church. It was initially a warehouse before being converted to a museum in 1976.
Since then, it has been serving as a learning center for people interested in learning more about the region’s culture.
The museum’s main attractions are the various artworks made by individuals from different backgrounds.
Some vibrant paintings and sculptures are displayed here.
Address: The Museum of East Texas is located at 503 N 2nd St, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
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6. Kurth Lake
Kurth Lake is a 560-acre reservoir located about 6 miles away from the city of Lufkin.
It’s a great place to take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city and relax.
The lake is filled with various freshwater fishes, such as largemouth bass, lake trout, and sunfish.
To get around the lake, you must obtain a lake access permit from the city of Lufkin.
You can also improve your skills by staying near the lake for up to three days.
If you’re not into fishing, you can also explore the lake’s natural features by taking a walk or a canoe.
Address: The Kurth Lake is located at County Road, 117A Lufkin, TX 75901, United States.
7. Pine Valley Raceway
Drag racing is a type of extreme sport involving various kinds of vehicles, such as trucks and novelty cars.
It’s usually held at the Pine Valley Raceway. The race takes place on a short track less than a mile long.
Drag racing is an excellent activity for the whole family to enjoy in Texas. It’s also a fast and furious sport that everyone usually wants.
Address: The Pine Valley Raceway is located at FM 2497, Lufkin, TX 75905, USA.
8. Pines Theater
The Pine Theater, established in 1925, has been recognized as a legitimate establishment in the city of Lufkin due to its historic status.
It’s a 431-seat facility that can accommodate various performances.
The city of Lufkin is known for its various attractions, such as the theatre. People come to watch movies and watch live music concerts.
The artists in the area are also dedicated to delivering exceptional performances.
Address: The Pines Theater is located at 113 S 1st St, Lufkin, TX 75901, United States.
9. Skyline Burrito Bowls
One of the most popular restaurants in the city of Lufkin is the Skyline Burrito Bowl.
This family-owned establishment serves a variety of Mexican food items such as burritos, tacos, and nachos. It has been voted the best burrito in the city for the last nine years.
The staff of the restaurant uses the finest ingredients to make their food. Their secret recipe ensures that their burritos are made with the best possible.
This is a must-visit area in the city of Lufkin if you’re craving Mexican food.
This restaurant serves a wide variety of food items and is known for its exceptional service.
Address: The Skyline Burrito Bowls is located at 409 N Timberland Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
10. Sake Cafe
The residents have praised the staff and the food of the Sake Cafe for its excellent Japanese food.
This establishment is located in a shopping area in the city of Lufkin.
The restaurant staff members are passionate about providing their customers with the best Japanese food.
Their various food items include bento boxes and salmon sashimi.
Address: The Skyline Burrito Bowls is located at 1905 Tulane Dr #103A, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
11. Absolutely Fiction Books
The charming and small bookstore, Absolutely Fiction Books, has various books on different subjects.
Its shelves are filled with fiction and non-fiction novels and cooking and history books.
Instead of searching for books online, visit a local bookstore to find the best selection.
This will allow you to browse the various books available at the store. The store is open from Tuesday to Saturday.
Address: The Absolutely Fiction Books is located at 903 S John Redditt Dr, Lufkin, TX 75904, USA.
12. Rose Cottage Resale
If you’re a lover of high-quality and second-hand goods, then Rose Cottage Resale is the place for you.
This store offers a wide variety of unique and fun items at the lowest possible prices.
Address: The Rose Cottage Resale is at 510A S Chestnut St, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
13. Crown Colony Country Club
The city of Lufkin has a wide variety of attractions that its residents can enjoy.
One of these is the beautiful and well-maintained golf course. This facility is situated in a beautiful forested area.
Due to its various features, such as the rolling terrain and the misleading shots, the golf course has been regarded as one of the toughest in Texas.
Address: The Crown Colony Country Club is located at 900 Crown Colony Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
14. Ellen Trout Zoo
One of the most popular attractions in the city of Lufkin is the Ellen Trout Park Zoo, which has over 800 animals. This facility is situated in the northern part of the city.
The zoo staff members take great pride in their work and are passionate about providing the best possible care for the animals.
The warm and fuzzy environment evidences this they have inside.
Address: This attraction is located at 402 Zoo Cir, Lufkin, TX 75904, USA.
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15. Davy Crockett National Forest
The Davy Crockett National Forest is an uncultivated tract of land located west of the city of Lufkin. It has a total land area of 160,647 acres.
Due to its size and freedom from external influences, this area has been regarded as one of the most visited attractions in the Texas Piney Woods region.
This forest features various types of woodland areas and mild hills. It’s an ideal spot for people looking for a place to start their hiking career.
Address: The Davy Crockett National Forest is located at 18551 State Highway 7 East Kennard, TX 75847, USA.
16. Atkinson Candy Company
Since its establishment, the company has been regarded as one of the region’s first and foremost sweet and candy-making organizations.
The Atkinson Candy factory in the city of Lufkin is a store dedicated to making the finest sweets.
This facility allows visitors to enjoy their sweets right from the kitchen.
The company’s well-known candies include Black Cow, Chick-O-Stick, and Peanut Butter Bars.
They also produce candies such as Gemstones, which were given to you during Halloween.
Address: The Atkinson Candy Company is located at 1608 West Frank Avenue, Lufkin, TX 75904, USA.
17. Kiwanis Park
This park is an excellent spot for people looking to enjoy a picnic or get together with friends. It’s also equipped with a grill.
It also has various fun features for children, such as swings and slides. Family members and friends can additionally enjoy playing in the shallow water feature.
Address: The Kiwanis Park is located at Kiwanis Park Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
18. Ralph & Kacoo’s
Ralph and Kacoo’s is a local seafood restaurant that serves various types of seafood. Besides their food, they also offer a drink menu.
This establishment has been known for its extensive selection of drinks.
If you’re in the mood for a quick and satisfying meal, this establishment can be reached outside the paved area. They also offer takeout services.
Address: This attraction is located at 3107 S 1st St, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
19. Kit McConnico Park
If you’re unaware of the nature surrounding the city of Lufkin, then Kit McConnico is a great place to stop.
This area is characterized by its relatively small size and an isolated atmosphere. However, it’s still close to civilization.
It’s also an excellent spot for people looking to participate in various activities, such as playing soccer or baseball.
Address: This attraction is located at Kit McConnico Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
20. Naranjo Museum of Natural History
One of the best places for history lovers is the Naranjo Museum of Nature. The Naranjo Family established this museum.
It features a collection of items acquired by Dr. Neal Naronjo, such as space shuttle parts and fossils.
The museum is very educational and ideal for people interested in learning more about the world’s prehistoric past.
It also has a variety of exhibits that are designed to show different types of dinosaurs and eggs.
Address: The Naranjo Museum of Natural History is located at 5104 South 1st Street Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.
21. Angelina County Farmers Market
The Angelina County Farmers Market is located in a beautiful covered area with various fruits, vegetables, and other agricultural products.
It’s also an excellent place for people looking to purchase local products.
The market is also known for its various events, such as live music and shows. These activities enhance the market’s festive atmosphere.
Address: The Angelina County Farmers Market is at 2107 S Medford Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901, USA.