Jacksonville TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Jacksonville, Texas.
1. Love's Lookout Scenic Park
BREATHTAKING PANORAMIC VIEWS
Love's Lookout Scenic Park offers one of East Texas' most breathtaking views that overlooks a broad valley with over 30 miles of beautiful scenery. The park includes a 5500 square foot facility housing restrooms, vending machines, information center, and Sheriff's sub-station. Along the lookout ridge are 5 picnic arbors built in the tomato shed style of the main building, reminiscent of Jacksonville's farming heritage.
2. Lake Jacksonville
PREMIER BASS FISHING DESTINATION
Lake Jacksonville ranks as the number 9 spot for top largemouth bass fishing in East Texas according to data collected from the Texas Department of Parks and Wildlife. The 1500-acre lake serves as both a permanent home for many residents and a weekend getaway destination for visitors. Accommodations include RV hook-ups, huts available through the City of Jacksonville, and the Horseshoe Inn Bed & Breakfast located on the lake.
3. Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari
WILD ANIMAL ADVENTURE
Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari is ranked as the number one attraction in Jacksonville by Tripadvisor. Visitors can experience wildlife up close while driving through the safari in their own vehicles. The safari offers a unique opportunity to observe and sometimes interact with various exotic animals in a natural setting.
4. Vanishing Texana Museum
LOCAL HISTORY PRESERVED
The Vanishing Texana Museum houses a large collection of antiquities and artifacts that showcase the rich history of the region. Visitors can roam the walls of the museum where curiosities are displayed, offering glimpses into the past. The museum serves as an important cultural institution preserving the heritage of Jacksonville and the surrounding areas.
5. Neches River National Wildlife Refuge
NATURAL WILDERNESS SANCTUARY
The Neches River National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area that preserves the natural ecosystems along the Neches River. Visitors can explore diverse habitats that support a variety of wildlife species native to East Texas. The refuge offers outdoor recreational activities such as hiking, birdwatching, and nature photography in a pristine natural setting.
6. Texas Basket Company
HANDCRAFTED BASKET TRADITION
Texas Basket Company is the nation's largest basket-making company, operating since 1919 and shipping their products to every state in the U.S. as well as countries like Japan and Germany. The company sells a large array of uniquely crafted baskets for harvesting, collecting, or decor purposes that are hand-crafted and produced on-site using the highest quality materials. Visitors can shop at this locally owned small business and support a long-standing Jacksonville tradition.
7. Neighbors Coffee
ARTISTIC DOWNTOWN CAFÉ
Neighbors Coffee is a cozy café located in downtown Jacksonville that serves specially crafted coffee in an artistic atmosphere showcasing beautiful artwork. The café offers a variety of seasonal specials, such as the Mays Flower latte with orange extract, rosehips, and pink Himalayan Sea salt. In addition to beverages, they serve an assortment of food making it a great place to grab breakfast or lunch while exploring downtown Jacksonville.
8. Cherokee History Trails
HISTORICAL MARKER TOUR
Cherokee History Trails features over 100 historical markers that highlight locations where significant early Texas history was made. A map provided by the Cherokee County Historical Commission guides visitors to these important sites throughout the region. The trails offer history enthusiasts a self-guided tour through the rich heritage of Cherokee County and East Texas.
9. Horseshoe Inn Bed & Breakfast
LAKESIDE COMFORT RETREAT
Horseshoe Inn Bed & Breakfast offers comfortable accommodations with a prime location on Lake Jacksonville. Guests can enjoy scenic lake views and easy access to water activities during their stay. The inn provides a peaceful retreat for visitors looking to experience the natural beauty of East Texas while enjoying the comforts of a bed and breakfast.
10. Tyler State Park
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Tyler State Park offers over 985 acres of natural beauty just a short drive from Jacksonville, featuring a 64-acre spring-fed lake, hiking trails, and lush pine forests. Visitors can enjoy camping, fishing, swimming, boating, and picnicking in this scenic East Texas park. The park's diverse wildlife and beautiful landscapes make it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts.
11. Caldwell Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY ANIMAL EXHIBITS
Caldwell Zoo in nearby Tyler houses over 2,000 animals representing 250 species from around the world in naturalistic habitats. The zoo's 85-acre campus includes African, North American, and South American sections where visitors can observe exotic and native wildlife up close. Families can enjoy educational programs, a children's petting zoo area, and various seasonal events throughout the year.
12. Stanley's Famous Pit BBQ
LEGENDARY TEXAS BARBECUE
Stanley's Famous Pit BBQ is a renowned establishment in nearby Tyler that has been serving award-winning Texas barbecue since the 1950s. The restaurant is famous for its slow-smoked meats, particularly the brisket, ribs, and pulled pork, which are prepared using traditional pit barbecue methods. Stanley's also features live music on select nights, creating a vibrant atmosphere that complements its exceptional food offerings.
13. Rusk State Park Railroad
HISTORIC STEAM TRAIN EXPERIENCE
The Rusk State Park Railroad, also known as the Texas State Railroad, offers visitors a chance to ride a historic steam train through the picturesque Piney Woods of East Texas. The vintage train travels between Rusk and Palestine on a 25-mile route that crosses 24 bridges and offers stunning views of the surrounding countryside. Special themed train rides are offered throughout the year, including holiday trains, dinner trains, and special events for families.
14. Henderson Syrup Festival
SWEET CULTURAL TRADITION
The Henderson Syrup Festival is an annual event held in November showcasing the traditional process of making ribbon cane syrup. Visitors can watch demonstrations of syrup-making using antique equipment and sample fresh syrup along with other traditional Southern foods. The festival also features craft vendors, live entertainment, and activities that celebrate the region's agricultural heritage.
15. New York Texas Zipline Adventures
THRILLING CANOPY TOURS
New York Texas Zipline Adventures offers exhilarating zipline tours through the treetops of the East Texas forest near Palestine. Adventurers can soar on multiple ziplines ranging from 100 to over 1,000 feet in length while enjoying panoramic views of the surrounding wilderness. The facility provides all necessary equipment and safety instruction, making it accessible for both first-time zipliners and experienced thrill-seekers.