Featured
Cultural Opportunities in Tyler Center Around the City's "Rosey" Relationships
Cultural opportunities bloom throughout the year in Tyler, especially when it comes to the city’s flowery celebrations, from the Tyler Azalea Trail held each March to the annual Texas Rose Festival in October.
The premier event for a city that touts itself as America’s Rose Capital is the Texas Rose Festival. The rose industry has long been an important part of Tyler’s economy (more than half of all rose bushes currently sold in the United States are grown or packaged in the... Read More »
Tyler's Recreation Options Connect Residents to the Outdoors
In Tyler it's easy to have fun outside. The city offers 26 parks, special events, dozens of playing fields, water recreation options and summer camps to keep residents in touch with the area's natural beauty.
The organization SPORTyler ensures there are plenty of activities taking place at those fields and parks. SPORTyler was developed in 1990 to attract amateur sporting events to Tyler and promote recreation within the city.
Under the direction of SPORTyler, the city has played host to... Read More »
Tyler, TX Dishes Up Local Food Favorites and Overseas Offerings
When you think about typical Texas fare, the things that usually come to mind are steaks and barbecue and Tex-Mex. Such traditional Lone Star State food is readily available in Tyler but the city also ventures well beyond the state line with restaurants that specialize in French, Italian, Mediterranean and Latin cuisine.
Rick's On The Square
Since 1992, one of the most popular restaurants in town has been Rick’s On The Square. As the name suggests, Rick’s is located in the heart of... Read More »
Tyler, Texas Golf Courses Way Above Par
Golf courses in Tyler, Texas, keep golfers on their tees, with more than a dozen public and private venues in the area.
Hollytree Country Club
This private 18-hole championship layout also doubles as a residential development. Hollytree opened in 1983 and features plenty of water hazards as well as five par-3s that are quite demanding. The course has four sets of tees that measure from 5,102 yards to 6,805 yards.
The Cascades
Known for its dramatic elevation changes, The Cascades is a private,... Read More »
Goodman Museum Tours Allow Guests to Peer Back into History
Trivia answer: Tyler’s first property ever to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places was the Goodman-LeGrand Home, located on North Broadway Avenue.
The home is now known as the Goodman Museum, and it originally began as a one-story, four-room house constructed by Samuel Smith in 1859. The home is now named for the family of its third owner, Dr. W.J. Goodman. The family lived in the home for more than 70 years. The residence underwent several additions and renovations to give it... Read More »
Enjoy Live Music, Rooftop Patios in Tyler, TX
The City of Tyler, Texas, is so focused on enhancing its reputation as an entertaining and cultured place to live and work, it bought and restored an old theater and turned it into the town’s hottest live music venue. Part of the Tyler 21 Master Plan, which calls for downtown Tyler to become an arts and culture district directed at bolstering private investment and revitalization, the city partnered with the East Texas Symphony Orchestra and major donor The Genecov Group to raise more... Read More »
Locally Owned Tyler Shops Offer Fun and Trendy Finds
Beyond the mall and big box stores there's a vast collection of locally owned shops in Tyler that retail connoisseurs couldn't pass by.
Among the sweetest shopping spots in Tyler is the Sweet Gourmet, a charming gourmet food shop that draws customers in with a free sample of chocolate and keeps them coming back with exceptional customer service.
“We’re like an old-fashioned store from the ’50s, a time when you had to have great customer service to stay in business,” says... Read More »
Tyler TX Has Many Outdoor Recreation Options for Men
It's hard to deny Tyler's rugged appeal. This Texas town offers many outdoor recreation options that men, and women, find hard to pass up.
Even President George W. Bush spent time in Tyler in 2011 specifically to enjoy outdoor activities. The 43rd U.S. President visited Tyler State Park to access the 13-mile mountain bike trail, considered among the best in the country.
“Tyler State Park is the number-one most utilized Texas Parks & Wildlife facility in the state, and President... Read More »
Tyler's Municipal Rose Garden is Largest in Country
Tyler Municipal Rose Garden
A single red rose has served as inspiration to hundreds of romantics. Just imagine what an entire garden can too. The 14-acre Tyler Municipal Rose Garden in Tyler, TX, is the largest rose garden in the United States. More than 38,000 rose bushes exist representing 500 different varieties, ranging from tall grafted rose trees to miniature roses that are no larger than a dime. The Rose Garden is open from dawn until dark, seven days a week, and admission is free. It... Read More »
Quality Means Success for Tyler Food and Drink Businesses
One look at the box, and you know something wonderful is inside. Bright-yellow-and-white-striped with a cornflower blue ribbon, the parcel holds one of Janie Clapp’s specialties – a baked-from-scratch pound cake just like her great-grandmother taught her to make.
“When everybody else was asleep in the afternoons, she would get me in the kitchen and we’d start baking,” Clapp recalls about her annual summer trips to “Papu’s” house in Austin... Read More »
Hudnall Planetarium Offers Host of Fascinating Programs
Plenty of star power can be found at Hudnall Planetarium.
The astronomy-based building was built in 1963 on the campus of Tyler Junior College, and is used as an educational exhibit room and domed viewing theater. The dome of the theater is 30 feet in diameter, and the planetarium offers an assortment of telescopes for the public to view the heavens.
Hudnall Planetarium also hosts a number of children’s programs, including “The Friendly Stars” that provides an overview of... Read More »
Rick's is a Hot Night Spot in Tyler, TX
Music fans of all ages flock Thursday, Friday and Saturday nights to Rick’s On the Square, one of Tyler’s most happening nightspots. Country rock and rhythm-and-blues enthusiasts rave about the popular club on West Erwin, with great local acts such as Professor Porkchop & The Dirty Dishes and Elvis T. Busboy.
The food and atmosphere is among the best in Texas. Rick's serves up prime steaks, market-fresh seafood, house-made desserts and vintage wine.
Enjoy premium cigars and watch sporting... Read More »
Tyler’s Cotton Belt Depot Museum: All Aboard for Fun
The Cotton Belt Depot Museum in Tyler is a favorite stop for train enthusiasts of all ages. Constructed in 1902, this depot served railroad passengers for 50 years.
The museum has a large collection of model trains on exhibit, including what is known as the “Bragg Collection,” an assortment of 200 model locomotives and more than 1,600 rail cars. Visitors are encouraged to take over the controls for the model trains as they learn about railroad history in Texas. Volunteers from the Cotton Belt... Read More »
Fun Things to Do in Tyler, TX
Home to art, history, performances and outdoor activities, Tyler offers a variety of opportunities sure to entertain residents and visitors alike. Set aside a little time to take advantage of these fun attractions the city has to offer:
1. Tour the McClendon House, which was constructed in 1878 and is now a Texas State Historical Landmark as well as a Tyler Historical Landmark.
2. Get in touch with your wild side at the Caldwell Zoo where visitors can observe and learn about a variety... Read More »
Growing Roses in Tyler, Texas Is Second Nature
We're No. 1: Tyler Municipal Rose Garden is the largest rose garden in the United States.
The 14-acre park is obviously known for its beauty, and becomes an especially popular tourist attraction in both the spring and mid-October when the garden is in full bloom. More than 38,000 rose bushes exist representing 500 different varieties, ranging from tall grafted rose trees to miniature roses that are no larger than a dime.
The Rose Garden is open from dawn until dark, seven days a week, and... Read More »
Fit City Challenge Brings Hope, Health to Tyler
Tyler is shaping up, thanks to the Fit City Challenge – an ongoing citywide health initiative helping residents shed pounds and save lives.
"Our goal is our mission statement, which is to make Tyler a fit city one bite, one step, and one health-conscious decision at a time," says George Roberts, chief executive officer of the Northeast Texas Public Health District. "We feel obesity is one of the greatest threats to Tyler, and to the United States as a whole."
Tyler... Read More »
Texas Rose Festival in Tyler
Called the Rose Capital of the World, it's no surprise that the Texas Rose Festival in Tyler draws big crowds. The four-day festival began in 1933, and visitors can trace its history at the nearby Tyler Rose Museum. The Rose Parade marks the beginning of the annual festival, and leads to numerous other activities including the Coronation Ball, where the Rose Queen is crowned, and The Queen's Tea, when the public is invited to join the Rose Queen and her court. Of course, the real stars of the... Read More »
Historic Aviation Museum Expands at Tyler Airport
Fans of flying things flock to the newly expanded Historic Aviation Memorial Museum on the grounds of Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.
The museum has 25 indoor and outdoor exhibits that provide a glimpse of aviation in days gone by. Memorabilia and World War II airplanes are placed throughout the museum. Occasional fly-ins provide many youngsters with their first experiences with small aircraft, and a simulator allows visitors to experience flying while safely on the ground.
The museum was... Read More »
Cowan Center Provides First-Rate Performing Arts Facility
The Cowan Center brings the world stage right to the heart of Tyler. Located on the campus of The University of Texas at Tyler, this venue offers a wide range of shows and events, with something to suite every age group. Kids will enjoy the center’s Arts in Education Series, which have included performances such as Michael Cooper’s Masked Marvels and Wondertales or The Berenstain Bears in Family Matters.Adult audienceces can experience all the excitement of the theater through the... Read More »
Outdoors Enthusiasts of All Types Flock to Tyler State Park
Whoever coined the phrase “the great outdoors” was surely standing on one of Tyler State Park’s 985.5 acres, taking in the sweeping scenery of East Texas and thinking of the best possible way to describe the view.
Located just north of Tyler in Smith County, the park is host to approximately 250,000 visitors a year for everything from boating to bird watching, making it the area’s No. 1 tourist attraction.
Built by the Civilian Conservation Corps and opened in 1939, the park will celebrate... Read More »
Lake Tyler Offers Water, Sun, and Family Fun
Lake Tyler's recreation areas are a family favorite for fun in east Texas. With a mild climate year round, this spot is a popular stop for both residents and visitors.The Lake Tyler Department controls six park areas around the lake, where camping, hiking and swimming are encouraged. Several boat ramps are available, many of which are free of charge and open all year. Fishing enthusiasts will enjoy the variety of largemouth and spotted bass, catfish and sunfish that can be found swimming the... Read More »
Tyler's Rose Rudman Trail is Scenic Recreation Area
Tyler’s Rose Rudman Trail provides visitors with a scenic recreation area that every member of the family can enjoy. The 2.5 mile long, 8 foot wide paths are great for running, biking and rollerblading. Hiking and biking enthusiasts can also enjoy the trails constructed especially for them throughout the recreation area. Picnic areas and pavilions along the trail are great for family gatherings as well. Tall trees scattered throughout the recreation area provide a nice spot to stop for... Read More »
Tyler's American Freedom Museum Brings History to Life
The American Freedom Museum in Tyler offers visitors a chance to step back in time and experience America’s rich history. This 15,000 square foot facility transports visitors to the very beginnings of American history through the display of over 600 documents and artifacts. Encounter pieces of the past in the Hall of Freedom, featuring exhibits covering every major American military conflict since the Revolutionary War, from a musket used in the Battle of Lexington to the uniform of a... Read More »
Tyler's Caldwell Zoo Is Hotspot for Family Fun
One of the best places for family fun in Tyler is Caldwell Zoo, where more than 2,000 animals await visitors. The animals are located in habitats across 85-acres and include lions, elephants, and giraffes – in the African savanna exhibit, for example. In the North American area of the zoo, guests may see mountain lions, bald eagles and bison.There’s even a special place for snake charmers: The zoo’s herpetarium, is filled with slippery snakes and awesome amphibians. Visitors... Read More »
Camp Fannin Veterans' Memorial Honors Soldiers
Experience the rich history of Tyler at the Camp Fannin Veterans’ Memorial. Named in honor of Texas Revolutionary War hero, Col. James Walker Fannin, the camp served as a training facility for recruits before they stepped onto the battlefields of World War II. Once an Army Air Corps Replacement Training Center, the 15,000-acre site became an Infantry Replacement Training Center in 1943. The troops who came through Camp Fannin were sent into battle to replace those who had been killed in... Read More »
Tyler Finds Lots of Reasons to Celebrate
What a difference a trip makes. In the 1930s, some of Tyler’s town leaders attended a world’s fair and returned home inspired to find ways to bring tourists to Tyler. Roses seemed like a natural place to start, since Tyler had plenty of them.
So began the Rose Festival, an event that celebrates both the natural beauty of the flowers and all of the good things that the city has to offer.
The Rose Festival, which marked its 75-year anniversary in 2008, is held each October during harvest season... Read More »
Historic Tyler Works to Keep City’s Noteworthy Homes, Businesses Safe
In the mid-1970s, much of Tyler’s past had been bulldozed or renovated beyond recognition.
Historic homes and commercial buildings were gone or threatened, and many members of the community knew that something had to be done.
That something was the Historic Tyler organization, which was founded in 1977 and has led the charge to save literally thousands of the city’s noteworthy structures.
And along the way, it’s helped entire districts and neighborhoods, even some brick... Read More »
Kids Love It Here
In Tyler, looking ahead to the future means investing in young people today. Keeping kids active is a goal Tyler takes seriously.“Because the community has a little bit slower lifestyle, family is a priority here,” says Waterson Calhoun, president of Tyler Little Dribblers, a popular Tyler youth basketball league. “People invest in kids here. And that is something that sets the community apart.”The focus on children in Tyler is demonstrated by the sheer number of parents... Read More »
Tyler Restaurants Range From Fine Dining to Casual Comfort
Dressed up or dressed down, you have plenty of options for dining out in Tyler. And we’re not talking about your average chain restaurants – these eateries are bona fide Tyler favorites with made-from-scratch cuisine you won’t find anywhere else.
Fine Dining
To really impress that special someone or to treat yourself to fine cuisine, try Jake’s Tyler or Bernard’s Mediterranean Restaurant.
“Our most popular dishes are oysters and fresh seafood. We clean it all... Read More »
Shopping Options in Tyler, TX Include Malls, Districts and Markets
Tyler, Texas is known for its roses, however it also serves as the shopping hub for the East Texas area. Whether you are looking for a mall or that one-of-a-kind piece for someone special, you will find what you need in one of the Tyler districts. Here are a few of the must sees: Broadway Square MallEscape for a few hours, or the day, at Broadway Square Mall located in the heart of East Texas. Dillard's, JCPenney and Sears anchor this recently renovation shopping haven. With more than 60... Read More »
Discovery Science Place a Perfect Spot for Family Fun
Discovery Science Place in Tyler, a hands-on museum, opens kids’ minds to the wonders of science, technology and culture, providing education and entertainment together.The museum primarily serves kids age Pre-K through middle school, but parents will enjoy the experience with them. The Discovery Science Place provides three exhibit halls packed with activities for kids to play, explore and learn.The Joyce Buford Exhibit Hall is geared toward younger children, and allows them to take... Read More »
Weekend in Tyler, TX
Tyler has attractions galore, along with great restaurants and popular nightspots. This city, named for President John Tyler, is home to Caldwell Zoo, a variety of museums and several cultural attractions, and visitors can also enjoy outdoor destinations like Lake Palestine, Lake Tyler, Tyler State Park and numerous golf courses.
Day 1
Upscale Dinner at Bernard’s
Bernard Mediterranean Restaurant offers a large selection of interesting pasta, steaks, veal and chicken dishes. Appetizers... Read More »
Tyler Museum of Art Educates and Inspires
The Tyler Museum of Art has been a center for art education and appreciation since its opening in 1971. With almost 1,500 works on permanent display and several rotating collections, the museum offers visitors a wide array of art to enjoy. The Tyler Museum of Art always has intriguing exhibits on display from abstract collections to highlights of local artists.
This American Association of Museums-accredited institution offers tours for adults and docent-led tours for school groups. The museum... Read More »
John Tyler High School Lions in Tyler, TX Famous For Football
The John Tyler High School Lions in Tyler, TX, have a long and storied football history, having roared to championships in 1930, 1973 and 1994. In 1994, the Lions played one of the most famous playoff games in Texas history, holding a 41-17 lead with 2:42 remaining versus Plano East. The opponent then scored a TD and recovered three consecutive on-side kicks, and scored TDs after each of them. Suddenly, John Tyler High was behind 44-41 with 24 seconds remaining, but returned the ensuing kick... Read More »
Brookshire's World of Wildlife Museum in Tyler, TX
Brookshire’s World of Wildlife Museum and Country Store in Tyler lets visitors explore more than 450 animal dioramas representing animals from around the world. The best part? It’s all FREE.After venturing through the deserts of Africa and the forests of North America, browse through Brookshire’s Country Store, which is filled with grocery items and fixtures reminiscent of an old fashioned 1920s grocery store.Don’t miss the excitement of the playground areas as well.... Read More »
Tyler Rose Garden Blooms With Natural Beauty
The magnificent 14-acre Tyler Rose Garden park is home to the nation’s largest rose garden, complete with 38,000 rose bushes. Rose enthusiasts flock to Tyler every year to enjoy the rich beauty on display in the gardens and to take part in such events as the annual Texas Rose Festival. The garden is a favorite spot for snapping photos. Other floral aficionados take advantage of the on-site demonstration garden to learn expert tricks and tips to improve their own home gardens.
The Rose... Read More »
Goodman-LeGrand Home and Museum in Tyler Brings Civil War History to Life
The first property ever to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places in Tyler, TX was the Goodman-LeGrand Home. Now home to the Goodman Museum, the home is located on North Broadway Avenue.The museum is open for public tours, with many of the Goodman family’s antique furnishings on display. Individual guests are welcome for walk-in tours, and photography sessions, group tours and special functions can be scheduled in advance.The home was originally constructed as a one-... Read More »
