Palestine TexasATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Palestine, Texas.
1. Davey Dogwood Park
NATURAL BEAUTY AND TRAILS
Davey Dogwood Park is a popular natural attraction in Palestine known for its beautiful dogwood trees that bloom spectacularly in spring. The park features various walking trails for visitors to explore the natural beauty of East Texas. It provides a serene environment for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts throughout the year.
2. Texas State Railroad
HISTORIC SCENIC RAILWAY
The Texas State Railroad is a treasured Texas attraction since 1881 that transports passengers in historically authentic cars through the enchanting Piney Woods. An essential part of the experience includes spending time at the Rusk and Palestine depot complexes before departure and after the ride. The railroad offers a unique glimpse into Texas transportation history while providing a scenic journey through East Texas landscapes.
3. Texas Jail House
HISTORIC PRISON EXPERIENCE
The Texas Jail House is a historic site in Palestine that allows visitors to explore a preserved jail facility. During special events like Christmas, visitors can see various cells, a Christmas village, and even take pictures with the Grinch. The facility offers a unique blend of history and seasonal entertainment for visitors of all ages.
4. Sacred Heart Church
ARCHITECTURAL RELIGIOUS BEAUTY
Sacred Heart Church is a notable architectural building in Palestine featuring beautiful design elements. While the church presents an impressive exterior, visitors hoping to see the interior should call ahead as it is typically locked. The historic church stands as one of Palestine's several beautiful houses of worship worth visiting.
5. Railroad Heritage Center
RAILWAY HISTORY MUSEUM
The Railroad Heritage Center is a specialty museum dedicated to preserving Palestine's rich railroad history. Visitors can engage in a scavenger hunt for items throughout the museum, making the experience interactive and educational. The center highlights the profound impact of railroads on the development of Palestine and East Texas.
6. Palestine Visitors Center
TOURISM HUB AND GIFTS
The Palestine Visitors Center is housed in a 111-year-old restored railroad depot, serving as the perfect starting point for exploring the city. The center offers brochures on tourist sites and local events, along with knowledgeable staff ready to provide information. A small gift shop within the center allows visitors to purchase souvenirs and locally-made items.
7. Historic 1836 Chuckwagon Races
WESTERN HERITAGE EVENT
The Historic 1836 Chuckwagon Races is a unique attraction that celebrates Texas's western heritage and history. The event features exciting wagon races that recreate historical transportation methods used in early Texas. Spectators can enjoy not only the races but also the atmosphere of frontier life and traditional western culture.
8. Pilgrim Church
TEXAS'S FIRST PROTESTANT CHURCH
Pilgrim Church, built in 1833, is said to be the first Protestant church in Texas, making it a site of significant historical importance. The church stands as one of the several beautiful historic houses of worship that can be found in Palestine. Its long-standing presence represents an important piece of Texas religious heritage and architectural history.
9. Carnegie Library
HISTORIC LITERARY LANDMARK
The Carnegie Library in Palestine was built in 1914 and registered as a Texas Historical Landmark in 1970. This gorgeous building is one of only 13 remaining Carnegie Library buildings in the entire state of Texas. The historic library represents both the architectural beauty of its era and the importance of knowledge and literacy in the community's development.
10. Historic Howard House
VICTORIAN ARCHITECTURAL GEM
The Historic Howard House from 1848 is one of Palestine's many preserved historical homes that showcase the city's rich architectural heritage. The house exemplifies the Victorian style that became prominent during Palestine's growth in the railroad era of the 1870s. Visitors can appreciate the craftsmanship and historical significance of this structure, which is part of Palestine's collection of over 1,800 historical sites.
11. Historic Bowers Mansion
ELEGANT HISTORICAL RESIDENCE
The Historic Bowers Mansion, dating from 1878, stands as a testament to Palestine's prosperity during the railroad boom. The mansion features detailed architectural elements characteristic of its period, making it a visual delight for history and architecture enthusiasts. It contributes to Palestine's reputation for beautiful historical homes and buildings that tell the story of East Texas development.
12. International Great Northern Railroad Depot
RAILWAY HISTORICAL SITE
The International Great Northern Railroad Depot represents Palestine's important role in Texas's railroad history. The depot stands as a physical reminder of how the coming of railroads in the 1870s contributed significantly to the city's growth and development. This historic site helps visitors understand the profound impact of railway transportation on the economic and social landscape of East Texas.
13. Historic Broyles House
PRESERVED ARCHITECTURAL HISTORY
The Historic Broyles House is part of Palestine's impressive collection of preserved homes from its prosperous past. The house showcases the architectural styles and craftsmanship that flourished in East Texas during Palestine's development. As one of the city's many historical structures, it contributes to the 44-block area that forms the core of Palestine's long-range restoration program.
14. Palestine Courthouse
DOWNTOWN HISTORICAL CENTERPIECE
Palestine's spectacular courthouse stands as the centerpiece of the city's historic core, overseeing three distinct areas: Courthouse Square, the Downtown District, and Old Town. The impressive building serves as both a functioning government facility and a architectural landmark representing the city's historical significance. The courthouse area forms the heart of Palestine's 44-block restoration focus led by the Palestine Economic Development Corporation.
15. Downtown Shopping District
HISTORIC RETAIL EXPERIENCE
Palestine's Downtown Shopping District offers visitors a charming retail experience amid historic architecture. Local shops and boutiques provide unique merchandise, handcrafted items, and souvenirs that reflect the character of East Texas. The district forms part of Palestine's core area that blends shopping, dining, and historical exploration in a pedestrian-friendly environment.