Do you wish to know about some of the exciting and fun things to do in Tyler, TX? Read this post to the end.
The city of Tyler is known as the Rose Capital of America due to its prominent role in the production and supply of rose bushes.
It also has one of the country’s most extensive municipal rose gardens. In addition, the annual Texas Rose Festival takes place each year and attracts over 100,000 people.
There are several exciting activities available in this town. If you plan to visit Tyler, Texas, this article will be of great value to you as we’ll be listing some intriguing tourist attractions in Tyler, Texas.
Where is Tyler, Texas?
The city of Tyler is located in Texas and is the largest county seat of Smith County.
According to the 2020 census, its population was 105,995. It was the 33rd most populous place in Texas and the 298th most populous city in the country.
It is also the principal city of the Tyler Metropolitan Statistical Area, which had a population of over 200,000 in 2020.
The city of Tyler is named after John Tyler, the tenth president of the U.S.
In 1985, the local chapter of the Civitan International organization started an international highway-widening campaign.
After receiving requests from the Texas Department of Transportation, the group adopted a two-mile stretch of U.S. Route 69.
Fun Things to Do in Tyler, TX
Tyler, Texas, is a big city filled with numerous exciting activities. These are 21 things to do in Tyler, Texas;
1. Faulkner Park
Located in the heart of Tyler, Faulkner Park is the perfect place to get away from it all and enjoy quality time with family and friends.
Since its inception in 2001, the park has been a great addition to the city.
The park features a fishing pond and a Nature Trail that will allow you to get away from it all and enjoy a peaceful walk.
It also has 9 miles of hiking trails that are ideal for both fitness and convenience.
The park also features a playground for children and a tennis center. It’s additionally home to various baseball and softball fields.
Address: This park is at 410 W Cumberland Rd, Tyler, TX 75703, United States.
2. Lake Tyler
Lake Tyler is one of the most beautiful things to see in the city of Tyler. It’s also a great place to get away from it all and enjoy quality time with family and friends.
Besides being a source of freshwater, the lake also provides a great recreational area.
It’s home to various water-based activities such as fishing, waterskiing, and boat trips.
It’s also an excellent place for bird watching as it provides a variety of habitats for different bird species.
Address: Lake Tyler is located in Tyler, TX, United States.
3. American Freedom Museum
The goal of the park is to honor all military members and veterans. It also aims to educate the public about the freedom that Americans have to enjoy.
The American Freedom Museum, a 15,000-square-foot facility, features over 650 artifacts.
In addition, it features two galleries dedicated to the Halls of Presidents and American Freedom.
Address: American Freedom Museum is located at 1051 N Houston St, Bullard, TX 75757, United States.
Are you planning to explore other parts of Texas? If yes, start by checking out Things to Do in Denton (TX), Fun Things to Do in Temple (TX), and Things To Do In Belton (TX).
4. Texas Rose Festival
The Texas Rose Festival is a well-known event that takes place in the city of Tyler each year. It’s a three-day festival during the third weekend of October.
The festival features various events that are centered around the Rose Queen court.
Some notable individuals featured on this court include the Duchess of the Rose Growers and the Rose Queen.
Address: The Texas Rose Festival is hosted at 420 Rose Park Dr, Tyler, TX 75702, United States.
5. Azalea Residential Historic District
The Rose Park district is full of beautiful homes built in the mid-20th century.
There are various styles of homes that can be found in this area, such as Queen Anne, International, and Ranch.
The city of Tyler is full of beautiful architecture and various other exciting features.
Besides being a great place to live, the city also has a variety of beautiful subdivisions.
These subdivisions reflect the changes that occurred during the oil boom in the state.
Address: The Azalea Residential Historic District is in Tyler, TX 75711, United States.
6. The Children’s Park of Tyler
Billy and Jennifer Carson were inspired to create the park after they saw a similar park in Dallas. This park was established to honor a child killed in a car accident.
It’s an excellent place for families with young children to gather and enjoy.
However, it also has a calming and therapeutic purpose. The park is dedicated to remembering those who have already passed.
The Children’s Park features various equipment pieces and statues. In addition, it has a butterfly garden, a small event center, and a fishpond.
Address: The Children’s Park is at 110 E Dobbs St, Tyler, TX 75701, United States.
7. Camp Ford Historic Park
The Camp Ford Historical Park was established to commemorate the history of Camp Ford. It was one of the largest Confederate prison camps during the Civil War.
Besides being a great place to visit, Camp Ford also has various other exciting features.
Some of these include a walking trail that has been fixed, a diorama, and a restored cabin.
Initially, Camp Ford was a training camp for Confederate soldiers. However, it was repurposed and transformed into a public park.
This location is one of the most popular recreational areas in the city.
Address: The Camp Ford Historic Park 6500 US-271, Tyler, TX 75708, United States.
8. Earth and Space Science Center
The Earth & Space Science Center was opened in 1963 as the Hudnall Planetarium. It underwent a significant expansion and renovation in 2011.
One of the most prominent features of the facility is its 40-inch Spitz nano-seam dome theater, which can display a full-dome experience.
The Science Center is completely equipped with modern technology.
It features several interactive exhibits and a Digitarium Aethos, a digital projection system that allows people to experience space and time through various mediums.
Address: The Earth & Space Science Center is located at 1411 E Lake St, Tyler, TX 75701, United States.
9. The Whitaker-McClendon House
The Whitaker-McClendon House is a historical landmark that’s located in Tyler. It’s also a famous historical site for people to visit.
The house was constructed in 1878 and featured various architectural styles influenced by Eastlake and Victorian styles.
It’s set on two acres of land. The building was created using a brick foundation made from pine and cypress wood.
Currently, the house is open for viewing. It’s dedicated to displaying artifacts and documents related to the Antebellum period of the First World War and the Second World War.
Address: The Whitaker-McClendon House is located at 625 S Vine Ave, Tyler, TX 75701, United States.
10. Historic Aviation Memorial Museum
The Historical Aviation Museum is located inside the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport. It was initially a passenger terminal building.
It’s dedicated to preserving and displaying various aviation artifacts and documents related to the industry’s history. This museum also features military aircraft and other memorabilia.
The museum’s hangar facility is used for the restoration of old airplanes. It’s also frequently used for air shows and air exhibits.
If you’re in the area at the right time, you can watch some of the most prominent airshows in the country.
Address: The Historical Aviation Museum is located at 150 Airport Dr # 2-7, Tyler, TX 75704, United States.
11. Tyler Berry Farm
One of the most popular attractions in the city of Tyler is the Tyler Berry Farm.
This farm is located right near the Caldwell Zoo. It’s a fun spot for people who love to eat fresh fruits and vegetables.
If you’re planning on visiting the city of Tyler during the weekend, this farm is a must-visit.
It’s also a great way to spend time with family and friends. In addition, the farm’s low price per pound of berries makes it a cheap activity in the area.
Address: Tyler Berry Farm is located at 9628 County Rd 429, Tyler, TX 75704, United States.
12. Kiepersol Vineyards, Winery & Distillery
The Kiepersol Estate is a multi-awarded winery and distillery that spans over 63 acres of land.
It’s known for its award-winning wine. Located in the heart of Texas wine country, the property features beautiful landscapes and multiple types of grapes.
The estate’s various products are available for sampling at its onsite restaurant. For a more intimate experience, you can also enjoy the farm’s signature meals.
The restaurant features a variety of food options that are accompanied by the perfect wine pairings.
Address: The Kiepersol Estate is at 21556-B Merlot Ln, Tyler, TX 75703, United States.
13. Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary
A designated preserve, Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary features over 40 rescued big cats.
It also rehabilitates and houses other big cats that have been abused, neglected, or displaced.
The sanctuary promotes conservation while additionally helping those in need.
Over the years, the founder of the sanctuary started moving to an off-grid property and cleared land to construct tiger habitats. In 1998, the facility expanded and grew to over 25 acres.
Address: The Tiger Creek Animal Sanctuary is located at 17552 FM14, Tyler, TX 75706, United States.
14. Tyler Museum of Art
In 1952, the Tyler Service League created the first Community Arts Committee to establish an art museum in the city.
For eight years, the group brought various works of art to local schools. Through the program, the children could get a closer look at art.
Eventually, a proper art center was established in 1960 in the former home of philanthropist and philanthropist Jamie T. Smith.
Now over 17,000 square feet, the museum features three galleries that house above 1,500 works of art.
The museum also features a variety of contemporary art from Texas. In addition, it has the Dan and Laura Boeckman Collection of Latin American and Mexican folk art.
Address: This museum is at 1300 S Mahon Ave, Tyler, TX 75701, United States.
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15. Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum
One of the most prominent historical attractions in the city of Tyler is the Goodman-LeGrand House & Museum.
This historic property was originally called Bonnie Castle. It was constructed in 1859 and featured a variety of architectural features.
Originally, the mansion was constructed on 9 acres of land. However, after he joined the Confederate States Army, he sold the property to a local teacher.
The property was eventually listed on the National Register for Historic Places. It also became a national historic site of the D.A.R. Society.
Address: This museum is located at Goodman Park, 624 N Broadway Ave, Tyler, TX 75702, United States.
16. Tyler State Park
Situated in the northern part of the city, Goodman Park is a popular spot for people looking for a bit of recreation. It features a beautiful 64-acre lake and several historic structures.
Aside from people who are looking for a place to gather, Goodman Park also has various activities for different groups. Some of these include birders, nature lovers, and hikers.
Address: The Tyler State Park is located at 789 Park Rd 16, Tyler, TX 75706, United States.
17. Discovery Science Place
One of the best family-friendly attractions in Tyler is Discovery Science Place.
This children’s museum features interactive activities that encourage kids to explore.
Kids can learn about physics with the help of kinetic sculptures at the Buford Kinetics Gallery or explore space and space exploration through the 3D Cinesphere.
The Cave, an artificial cave, is also a must-visit for young explorers. It features a seismic simulator and various exhibits.
Address: Discovery Science Place is located at 308 N Broadway Ave, Tyler, TX 75702, United States.
18. Caldwell Zoo
If you’re looking for a fun and family-friendly place to spend some time, the 85-acre Caldwell Zoo is a great choice.
It’s an excellent sanctuary for various animals. It’s been in existence since 1937 and has come a long way since it was first established.
During its initial years, David King Caldwell tried to create a child development laboratory.
It was designed to allow kids to interact with various animals.
The zoo features a variety of animals from East Africa. Some of these include lions, cheetahs, and warthogs.
It also has an extensive collection of parrots, monkeys, and African elephants.
The North American portion of the zoo features various animals from the region. These include bison, bobcats, red foxes, alligators, and white-tailed deer.
In addition, the zoo also has a vast collection of birds from South America. These include giant anteaters, cotton-topped tamarins, and various bird species.
Address: Caldwell Zoo is at 2203 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Tyler, TX 75702, United States.
19. Tyler Rose Garden
The Tyler Rose Garden is a 14-acre area that features over 500 different rose varieties.
It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a beautiful and unique place to spend some time.
The Rose Garden is divided into various areas. These include the Meditation Garden, Ida Garden, Queen’s Court, and Heritage Rose Garden. There are also multiple water features, such as the Archway Fountain.
Address: The Tyler Rose Garden is located at 420 Rose Park Dr, Tyler, TX 75702, United States.
20. Texas African American Museum
The Texas African American Museum was only established in 2016. Like many other cities in the area, it has a dark past.
This museum aims to educate people about the town’s history of slavery and lynching.
The museum’s goal is to preserve the past and serve as a form of community redress.
In addition, it aims to educate people about the city’s history of lynching and slavery.
Address: The Texas African American Museum is at 309 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Tyler, TX 75702, United States.
21. Tyler Civic Theater
The museum was first humbly established in 1927.
It was only performed at Tyler High School and on a platform inside the Women’s Building of South Broadway.
The Civic Theater in Tyler is a great place to watch and enjoy. A wide variety of activities and performances can be found there. So if you’re looking for something to do, check out the schedule.
Address: This theater is located at 400 Rose Park Dr, Tyler, TX 75702, United States.
Conclusion
The article covered 21 things to do in Tyler, Texas as a tourist or a visitor.
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