Located just ninety-nine miles southeast of Dallas, Tyler is one of the biggest cities in East Texas. This lively city was named after President John Tyler, to thank him for admitting the state of Texas to the United States. While many know Tyler as the “Rose Capital of America,” it is much more than roses and thorns. This charming city is full of many opportunities for exploration, from a sprawling state park, historical sites full of incredible stories, and some delicious Texas BBQ. And if you get really lucky, you might even be in town during Tyler’s famous Rose Festival, an annual event rich in tradition and history.
Where to Stay in Tyler
The most iconic place to stay in Tyler, Texas, is the Thomas Hotel. This hotel was opened in 2022 by local Tylerites, Grace & Andrew Cryer. The namesake comes from
Grace’s great-grandfather, Thomas Ramey Sr., who was the first president of the Texas Rose Festival.
Located in Downtown Tyler, this 8-suite boutique hotel is a great choice for anyone looking to feel at home in the heart of this city. Each suite includes a kitchenette and aking bed. Each morning, staff serve coffee and pastries made locally in Tyler in theLobby. Even if you don’t end up booking a room, you can stop by their cocktail bar, The Judge, and get a chance to see this beautiful hotel in person.
Things to Do in Tyler
Explore Tyler History
Goodman Legrand Museum
Just a 12 minute walk from the hotel is the Goodman Legrand Museum. It is a great place to stop if you want to explore the unique history of Tyler. This home was built in 1859, and the original owner sold the house when the Civil War Broke out. After going through a couple of owners, it finally landed in the hands of the Goodman family.
The Tyler home remained in the Goodman family for 73 years and four generations. In 1939, the last direct heir to live in the house, Sallie Goodman LeGrand, granted the Goodman-LeGrand estate to the City of Tyler and requested that the city turn the home into a public museum. It’s been open since 1940, and is an incredible slice of the rich Tyler history. The finely decorated interior features period furniture, oriental rugs, and even a bible from 1880.
Go Antiquing
If you appreciate the Goodman family antiques, then you are in the right place. Tyler has some excellent antiquing opportunities. Part of Historical Downtown Tyler,
the Ye Olde City Market is a treasure trove of unique goodies. Whether you’re looking for home collectibles, vintage toys, or historic signs you’re sure to find them in Tyler. I picked up an old film camera that I am going to use for an art project.
Admire the Azalea and Spring Flower Trail
After digging for treasures, enjoy the Azalea and Spring Flower Trail. Each March and Spring in Tyler, locals celebrate the turning of the seasons with more than ten miles of land covered with azaleas, tulips, wisteria, dogwood, and other plants. Located in the Azalea Residential Historic District, the trail of brick streets winds past beautifully manicured gardens and lawns. The trail starts at Goodman Legrand Museum and heads south.
Smell the Roses
If you are a flower lover you will also delight in smelling the roses at the Tyler Rose Garden. This garden includes thousands of rose bushes and over 300 kinds of roses. The roses are at their peak bloom in October and mid-late May, but the gardens remain beautiful all year long! This park, which opened in 1952, is popular among local and visitors alike. Admission is free, but while you’re there, you can stop by the Tyler Rose Museum for a small fee.
Take a Hike
Tyler State Park
Another spectacular park just north of town is the Tyler State Park. Whether you’re looking to take a dip in the lake, hike, or bike, you can find it all at Tyler State Park. This park includes a 64-acre spring-fed lake, 13 miles of scenic hiking and biking trails, and beautiful wildlife. Tyler State Park is a wonderful place if you’re looking to find some peace while on a weekend getaway.
While the park provides camping spaces from tents to coaches, I camped in a water only slot in the Red Oak campsite area. The surrounding trees provided plenty of shade on the quaint loop. During my time in the park, I mostly hiked as my crazy dog Annie needs to stretch her legs! One hike you may want to check out is the Loop B trail. This 3-mile multi-use path runs along rolling hills beneath incredible 100-foot-tall trees. Loop B has decent elevation gain, making it a great option for both hiking and mountain biking.
Camp Ford
For a shorter walk closer to town with with significant history, try Camp Ford. It was the largest Confederate Prisoner of War Camp west of the Mississippi River during the American Civil War. The camp was open from August 1863 to May 1865, and detained over 5,300 prisoners at its peak in July 1864. The former site is now a free public park open daily from dawn until dusk. The park includes graphics that retell the history of the camp as well as a lovely walking trail.
Taste Texas BBQ
After a long day of exploration, it’s time to enjoy some good old Texas BBQ. Like any good Texan, that’s what I did. Who can pass up Stanley’s Famous Pit BBQ, the oldest East Texas BBQ joint that is frequently named as one of the best in the state by Texas Monthly. I tried the Mother Clucker world-renowned sandwich stacked with smoked chicken breast, cheddar cheese, a fried egg, and spicy barbecue sauce. Besides the delicious food, it also has an open-air music venue with a bar. This joint is a great option if you’re looking for somewhere to relax and fuel the soul.
Take a Side Trip
Watch a Horse Show
While there are plenty of things to do in Tyler, there are a few East Texas highlights just a short drive away. Located about 20 miles from the heart of Tyler, Texas Rose Horse park would make a great side adventure. This horse park features both local and nationally rated Hunter/Jumper shows. Check there website for upcoming, free events.
First Monday in Canton
And if you can’t find enough treasures in Tyler, I recommend checking out First Monday in Canton. Located about 40 miles outside of Tyler, Canton is home to the largest vendor and flea market in the United States. First Market is located on 400 acres of land with space for over 5,000 vendors. The market is open on the first Monday of every month, and is a must-see if you love antiquing.
The Texas Rose Festival
Finally, locals know that you can’t talk about Tyler without mentioning the Texas Rose Festival. If you want to know why Tyler is crowned the Rose Capital of America,
plan your visit to Tyler during the Texas Rose Festival. This exciting event is held the third weekend of October every year, and began in 1933. You not only will get to see thousands upon thousands of beautiful roses, but you will also get to experience the vibrant celebration.
The community participates in rich ceremonial traditions, such as the Queen’s Coronation, Ribbon Cutting and Rose Presentation, the Queen’s Tea, and the Rose Parade, all with the vivid backdrop of roses. The sheer beauty of these floral arrangements will blow you away—you won’t even need to stop to smell the roses!
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