With spring finally here, many families are itching to get out and enjoy the warmer air and blooming flowers.
After the last year or so, many guardians and their kiddos are as ready as they can be to go out and explore someplace beyond their own neighborhood. East Texas has many beautiful spots that are the perfect place to let your kids get their pent-up energy out.
Parents, we definitely have you in mind too. You’ve had a tough year filled with uncertainty and probably sudden home-schooling duties! These recommendations can provide some much-needed and much-deserved R&R.
#1 Stay in a tipi or tiny house in Hawkins
After being stuck indoors during quarantine and then having to stay inside during the Winter Storm (link blog), a getaway is just what you need. You can find a unique staycation experience right outside of Tyler and Longview, with these rustic options..
Spend your weekend getaway in a tipi: “This family-friendly tipi rental is nestled away in the serene woodlands of Music Springs in Hawkins, Texas, and offers guests an adventurous yet comfortable getaway.”
Book your stay here.
Spend your weekend getaway in a cabin: “This charming, tiny cabin is located on a farm in Hawkins, Texas, and can accommodate up to two guests. This cabin creates a comfortable, rustic atmosphere where glampers can unwind and enjoy each other’s company in style.”
Book your stay here.
#2 Visit the largest flea market in the U.S. in Canton
With over 5,000 vendors that are makers, creators, thrifters, and pickers, you can’t go wrong by visiting the “world’s largest flea market”. Mark your calendars because First Monday Trade Days are open from sun up until sun down from Thursday – Sunday before the first Monday of every month.
Interested in shopping locally or interested in becoming a vendor? Check out more info on First Monday Trade Days here.
#3 Explore the cypress tree forest in Nacogdoches
Did you know that the largest Cypress forest in the world is in East Texas? Caddo Lake is a 25,400-acre lake and bayou on the Texas/Louisiana border. The lake was named after the Native Americans who dwelled in the area until the 19th century, the Caddoans.
Spend some time in nature by venturing out to the cypress forest conveniently close to your home. For more information on this scenic outing, visit here.
#4 A weekend in Uncertain, TX (yes, that’s a town)
The cypress trees are not only found in Nacogdoches, but can also be found in Uncertain, TX. Uncertain is known for its nature, wildlife, and beautiful attractions: Caddo Lake State Park and Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge.
If you’re interested in getting to know Uncertain, visit their website here and book a place to stay here.
Some of the best lodging found in Uncertain, TX includes:
#5 Get to know the Lone Star States’ history in Marshall
Bear Creek SmokeHouse is known for their award-winning premium meets. They’ve been around since 1943 and are family-owned. They started with just a few turkeys and a small smokehouse and they’ve now expanded into an ever-growing facility.
Karma Farms is on a beautiful ranch in Marshall, TX. Full of livestock, trails, and horseback riding, Karma Farms has plenty to entertain everyone.
Delve into Texas’ history by visiting the Texas and Pacific Railway Museum and Depot in the Texas Forest Trail region. Historically, the Texas Forest Trail Region’s climate, natural beauty, wildlife, and abundant water attracted settlers and visitors. Today, the development of lakes, parks, and trails; the creation of cultural and heritage attractions; and the historic revitalization of many Texas Main Street cities make the region more inviting than ever.
Texas’ beautiful landscapes are found all over, but it’s important (and convenient) to get to know the towns near you. With spring here and Earth Day (April 22nd, 2020) around the corner, now’s the best time to book that much-deserved family road trip.
For more family-friendly activities, local events, or health advice, make sure to follow our blog. We’ve recently covered local discounts for your and your kids to enjoy in both Tyler and Longview.
