Top 15 Attractions and Activities in Tyler, Texas

Numerous guests visiting Tyler in the state of Texas may be unaware that it is renowned as the rose capital of America.

The roses in this region are undoubtedly exquisite; however, they are not the sole attractions in Tyler. Visitors can anticipate a diverse array of outdoor activities, including lush parks, crystalline lakes, and charming wineries.

In addition to its natural beauty, Tyler boasts a considerable number of museums dedicated to various fields, such as wildlife, science, aviation, and military history, making it ideal for those wishing to deepen their understanding of the local culture and history.

Furthermore, many of the museums and parks cater to younger audiences, ensuring that families have an abundance of activities to enjoy during their stay in Tyler.

Here are the top attractions in Tyler:

1. Caldwell Zoo

Caldwell Zoo is one of Tyler’s premier attractions, featuring over 2,000 animals from across the globe, including both local species and exotic animals from Africa and South America.

The zoo is dedicated to promoting wildlife conservation and fostering a greater appreciation for nature. Consequently, all enclosures are designed to simulate the animals’ natural habitats.

Spanning 85 acres of verdant terrain, the zoo offers a variety of activities suitable for visitors of all ages.

For younger visitors, there is a petting zoo allowing close interaction with animals, as well as two aquariums where guests can learn about aquatic ecosystems.

Additionally, picnic areas are scattered throughout the zoo, providing convenient spots for dining, along with a café for those who prefer more structured options.

2. Tyler State Park

For those looking to engage with the outdoors in Tyler, Tyler State Park offers a freshwater lake spanning 64 acres, alongside forested areas featuring towering trees over 100 meters tall and other notable natural features.

Visitors can explore the woodlands on foot to observe the local flora and fauna, making sure to bring binoculars to enhance the experience. For those wishing to venture farther, biking and hiking options are available, along with camping opportunities both for tents and rustic cabin rentals within the park.

The park has over 13 miles of trails, catering to both short walks and extended excursions suitable for all interests.

3. Tyler Museum of Art

Established in the 1970s, the Tyler Museum of Art was initiated to educate local children about the significance and enjoyment of art.

This non-profit institution is now accessible to the general public, continuing its educational mission. It houses permanent exhibitions in both the North and Bell Galleries.

In addition to its permanent collections, the museum offers a library, classroom space, a café, and a gift shop for art-related memorabilia.

The collection comprises over 1,200 works in various art forms, including sculpture, painting, and photography from local artists, alongside rotating exhibitions featuring contributions from the broader community and international artists.

4. Whitaker-McClendon House

The Whitaker-McClendon House, constructed in 1878, is among the oldest structures in Tyler and is recognized as a Texas Historic Landmark.

This house is one of only two historic sites in Tyler that offer guided tours, providing an invaluable opportunity to appreciate an excellent example of Victorian architecture in Texas.

Guided tours are conducted by knowledgeable local staff who share insights into the historical and cultural relevance of the house.

5. American Freedom Museum

The American Freedom Museum, located in Bullard near Tyler, provides an insightful overview of critical moments in American history during wartime, from the American Revolution to the conflicts in Iraq and Afghanistan.

The museum features a variety of exhibits that impart historical context as well as personal narratives from military heroes to illuminate the sacrifices and bravery of service members.

6. Brookshire’s World of Wildlife Museum

Brookshire’s World of Wildlife Museum showcases over 450 specimens of wildlife, providing visitors the opportunity to learn about local fauna and featuring replicas of animals from around the globe, including African elephants, rhinos, and giraffes.

The museum offers informative displays regarding wildlife found in the area as well as worldwide, ideal for those interested in deepening their understanding of animals and their ecosystems.

In addition to the wildlife exhibits, a charming replica of a typical grocery store from the 1920s is located on-site, allowing visitors to experience a glimpse into the past.

A playground is available for younger children, and admission is complimentary, ensuring that everyone can enjoy Brookshire’s World of Wildlife Museum.

7. Center for Earth and Space Science Education

This iconic facility in Tyler features a domed theater, making it an ideal destination for space enthusiasts.

The theater hosts video presentations that guide guests on a tour of the galaxy, showcasing planets and intriguing celestial points.

Additionally, the center provides interactive exhibits related to space, along with an exhibition hall dedicated to furthering knowledge about space exploration.

Visitors can also experience simulated space travel using flight simulators, adding an adventurous dimension to their exploration.

The planetarium is affiliated with NASA, providing live video feeds from the agency for aspiring astronauts to observe.

8. Goodman-LeGrand House

Constructed in 1859, the Goodman-LeGrand House encompasses nine acres and served as a significant landmark during the Civil War.

As the former residence of Samuel Goodman, the house has been preserved in its classic style post-remodeling and is recognized as a Texas Historic Landmark.

The museum within the house offers guided tours that showcase many historical artifacts, providing an engaging glimpse into life in Tyler’s earlier days.

Admission to the house is free, and visitors can enjoy a picturesque stroll through the adjoining LeGrand Park and Gardens before or after their visit.

9. Camp Ford Historic Park

Camp Ford Historic Park is located at the site of a former prisoner of war camp operating during the American Civil War.

Now serving as a memorial for those who perished at the camp, the park offers an educational outing for individuals interested in local Civil War history and features lush landscapes with paved walking paths ideal for exploration.

Additionally, visitors can find historical reconstructions, such as a wooden cabin, along with picnic areas for those wishing to enjoy a packed lunch amidst the tranquil setting.

10. Chamblee’s Rose Nursery

A family-owned establishment since 1953, Chamblee’s Rose Nursery is led by Mark Chamblee, a certified nursery expert passionate about floriculture.

The nursery showcases a diverse collection of rose species from the Tyler area, recognized as the rose capital of the United States. The nursery’s mission is to offer visitors the finest flowers as memorable souvenirs from their trip to Tyler.

With over 200 rose varieties available, knowledgeable and friendly staff members, many of whom have decades of experience at Chamblee’s Nursery, are on hand to address any inquiries visitors may have.

11. The Children’s Park

The Children’s Park in Tyler focuses on providing a connection to nature and outdoor play for young visitors.

The park features several attractions for children, including play areas and artistic granite teddy bear sculptures.

Moreover, there are statues depicting children engaged in play, storytelling circles, and natural elements such as waterfalls and a fish pond.

A butterfly garden allows children to observe a variety of colorful butterflies in their native habitats.

12. Discovery Science Place

Discovery Science Place is committed to entertaining and educating children about the wonders of science through interactive and imaginative experiences.

The center features a variety of rotating exhibits focusing on different scientific disciplines, including biology, chemistry, physics, and human anatomy.

In addition to temporary displays, there are permanent galleries offering engaging activities such as ‘The Cave,’ which teaches children about dinosaurs, as well as rock climbing walls, dig pits, and a 3D cinema.

13. Tyler Historic Aviation Memorial Museum

The Tyler Historic Aviation Memorial Museum, also known as HAMM, originated as part of the Tyler Pounds Regional Airport.

Today, this airport facility has been converted into a substantial exhibition space filled with aviation memorabilia from the 20th century, providing extensive information for aviation enthusiasts.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum includes a library and a multimedia theater room that hosts daily shows simulating flight experiences. A gift shop is also available for those in search of aviation-themed memorabilia.

14. Kiepersol Estates Winery and Museum

Kiepersol Estates Winery and Museum seeks to narrate the stories of their grapes through wine, with vineyards encompassing sixty-three acres featuring both red and white varieties.

Established in 1998 from manually planted vines and operated by the de Wet family, the winery provides visitors with a tasting room that offers panoramic views of the winery and its products.

Guests can enjoy tastings of the latest wines and participate in guided tours explaining the winemaking process at Kiepersol Estates.

15. Lake Tyler

Located to the east of Tyler, Lake Tyler, also referred to as Lake Tyler West, is adjacent to Lake Tyler East, with a canal linking the two bodies of water.

Beyond its provision of fresh drinking water to Tyler, the lakes offer scenic beauty and recreational opportunities.

Alongside the captivating vistas of the placid lake, a wide array of activities is available, with waterskiing during the summer being a popular pursuit in Tyler.

For those seeking a more relaxed experience, boating and fishing in the pristine waters are also viable options.