New London TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near New London, Texas.
1. London Museum Cafe & Soda Fountain
HISTORIC TRAGEDY REMEMBERED
The London Museum Cafe & Soda Fountain is a specialty museum that recalls the tragic New London school explosion of March 18, 1937, which killed 311 students, teachers, and visitors. The museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of those who died and those who survived this devastating event that changed safety standards for natural gas. Visitors can learn why there is now an odor in natural gas while exploring exhibits chronicling the town's history.
2. New London Museum and Cenotaph
MEMORIAL TO SCHOOL TRAGEDY
The New London Museum and Cenotaph stands as a solemn memorial to the worst school explosion in history that occurred on March 18, 1937. The cenotaph, made of Texas pink granite, was designed by architect Donald S. Nelson and sculptor Herring Coe, with the names of known victims engraved by school grade. Located just minutes from Henderson, the museum chronicles the town's history and the tragedy that led to the addition of odor in natural gas for safety purposes.
3. The Depot Museum
LOCAL RAILROAD HERITAGE
The Depot Museum preserves the railroad heritage that was vital to New London's development. Visitors can explore authentic railroad artifacts, historical photographs, and memorabilia that showcase the importance of rail transportation to this East Texas community. The museum offers a glimpse into the economic and social impact that the railroad had on the region's growth and prosperity.
4. Lake Tyler
OUTDOOR RECREATION PARADISE
Lake Tyler is one of the largest lakes in the Tyler area, located west of New London, offering nearly 5,000 surface acres of water when combined with Lake Tyler East. The lake serves as a major water supply source to the Tyler metro area while providing popular recreational activities including boating, water skiing, fishing, and swimming. Numerous homesites and waterfront properties make this a desirable residential area with diverse real estate options from weekend camps to upscale year-round homes.
5. Lake Tyler East
CONNECTED WATERFRONT DESTINATION
Lake Tyler East is connected to Lake Tyler via a canal, creating a massive recreational water system west of New London. Together with Lake Tyler, these connected bodies of water cover nearly 5,000 surface acres and serve as vital resources for the region. Visitors and residents enjoy the lake for camping at nearby Camp Tyler, hiking along shoreline trails, and participating in various water sports throughout the year.
6. Camp Tyler
OUTDOOR EDUCATIONAL EXPERIENCE
Camp Tyler offers a unique outdoor camping experience on the shores of Lake Tyler near New London. As an educational facility, the camp provides opportunities for nature exploration, outdoor skills development, and environmental learning programs for visitors of all ages. The camp's scenic location makes it an ideal destination for those looking to connect with nature while enjoying the recreational benefits of the nearby lake.
7. East Texas Oil Museum
REGIONAL PETROLEUM HISTORY
The East Texas Oil Museum in nearby Kilgore showcases the rich history of the East Texas oil boom that transformed the region in the early 20th century. Visitors can explore authentic recreations of oil boom towns, drilling technology exhibits, and interactive displays that bring this important chapter of Texas history to life. The museum preserves the stories of the wildcatters, workers, and communities that were forever changed by the discovery of the East Texas Oil Field.
8. Rangerette Showcase & Museum
CELEBRATING DANCE TRADITION
The Rangerette Showcase & Museum honors the world-famous Kilgore College Rangerettes, the first collegiate precision dance team in the world. Since 1940, these pioneering performers have revolutionized halftime entertainment and inspired similar groups across the nation. The museum displays original costumes, photographs, and memorabilia chronicling the history and achievements of this groundbreaking dance organization.
9. Tyler Municipal Rose Garden
AMERICA'S ROSE SHOWCASE
The Tyler Municipal Rose Garden is America's largest rose showcase with over 38,000 rose bushes representing more than 600 varieties. The 14-acre complex includes scenic walkways, fountains, and gazebos that provide the perfect setting to enjoy these beautiful blooms. Visitors can experience the garden year-round, but it's especially magnificent during the Tyler Rose Festival held annually in October.
10. TJC Planetarium
ASTRONOMICAL DISCOVERY CENTER
The TJC Planetarium at Tyler Junior College offers visitors an immersive astronomical experience through state-of-the-art digital projections. The facility hosts regular shows exploring the cosmos, planetary science, and celestial phenomena for both students and the general public. Educational programs at the planetarium make complex astronomical concepts accessible while inspiring wonder about the universe.
11. Caldwell Zoo
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WILDLIFE EXPERIENCE
Caldwell Zoo in Tyler houses over 2,000 animals representing 250 species in naturalistic habitats spread across 85 acres. Visitors can observe exotic and native wildlife including African lions, giraffes, and North American species while enjoying educational presentations and interactive exhibits. The zoo's commitment to conservation and education makes it both an entertaining and meaningful destination for families exploring the region around New London.
12. Tyler Museum of Art
REGIONAL ARTISTIC HERITAGE
The Tyler Museum of Art showcases a permanent collection of over 1,500 works with an emphasis on American art from the 19th and 20th centuries. The museum hosts rotating exhibitions featuring both regional and nationally recognized artists throughout the year. Educational programs, workshops, and community events make this cultural institution an important creative hub for the East Texas area.
13. Rose Rudman Recreational Trail
URBAN NATURE ESCAPE
The Rose Rudman Recreational Trail offers visitors a scenic pathway through wooded areas and alongside Hogg Creek in Tyler. This multi-use trail system provides opportunities for walking, jogging, cycling, and nature appreciation within an urban setting. Multiple access points, exercise stations, and rest areas make this trail network accessible and enjoyable for outdoor enthusiasts of all ages and abilities.
14. Cotton Belt Depot
HISTORIC RAILWAY STATION
The Cotton Belt Depot in Tyler stands as a beautifully preserved railway station that once served as a vital transportation hub for the region. Built in 1905, this historic structure now houses a museum showcasing the importance of rail transportation to East Texas' development. Visitors can explore railroad artifacts, vintage photographs, and interactive exhibits that bring the golden age of rail travel to life.
15. Lake Palestine
PREMIER FISHING DESTINATION
Lake Palestine is one of the largest lakes near the New London area, covering approximately 25,500 acres with 135 miles of shoreline. The reservoir is renowned for excellent fishing opportunities, particularly for catching bass, catfish, and crappie throughout the year. Visitors can enjoy boating, water sports, lakeside camping, and scenic views that make this water feature a popular recreational destination for locals and tourists alike.
New London Restaurants
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New London Beaches
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