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2013-2014 East To West Texas: Group Tour Manual
From the
EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
T
he East Texas Tourism Association is pleased to present this resource
manual for group tour planners. Its purpose is to introduce you to Texas, and to assist in making your tours through our region profitable. In this manual you will discover a variety of vacation fun, but more importantly, the cities which offer special features for group travel. Any questions you may have may be directed to the cities and attractions which are participating, and to us. Any information you need will be relayed to you right away. Much of the area covered may be new to you. To bring it into perspective we have included maps relating the region to the state as a whole. Distances are given. We believe the maps and other features will be especially helpful to your tour escorts, and we have published extra copies of the manual to supply their needs.
History EAST TEXAS TOURISM ASSOCIATION was founded in 1963. A private enterprise program built around cooperative efforts of more than
STAFF Mary Ramos Executive Director Carolyn McCasland Financial Director
60 cities in a 78-county region of East Texas, and six parishes in western Louisiana. Through ETTA, East Texas cities and attractions are tied together by Texas first travel trail - the East Texas Heritage Trail. These Trail hosts combine through ETTA to publish and distribute nationally the annual East
Amanda Reel Creative Director w w w. E a s t To We s t To u r i s m . c o m
to West Texas Vacation Guide, East To West Texas Group Tour Manual, and The Official Fun Map. ETTA participants are committed to serve the visitor, and welcome your inquiries.
28th Edition P.O. Box 150065 Longview, Texas 75615 (903) 918-4993 MaryRamos@sn.com
Your adventure is waiting!
Executive Director
East to West Texas Group Tour Manual Š
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2013-2014 East To West Texas: Group Tour Manual
TABLE OF CONTENTS
East To West Texas Group Tour Manual
How to use this guide
DISCOVER TEXAS
Find your destination - by referring to the colored 5HJLRQ 0DS RQ SJ WKHQ ÀQG \RXU VHFWLRQ TXLFNO\ by turning each page and observing the colored
< Hillsboro ............. Discover a city brimming with central Texas culture and history. Recognized as a 2011 Main Street City, this is a must group travel destination.
17 < Georgetown ............
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A group travel haven! Georgetown is loved by many travel leaders for its many itinerary options, spend a day at the museum, explore the caverns, or simply fall in love with its wonderful Texas countryside.
Did you know?
boxes. Each box contains handy & interesting information.
Welcome Letter ........................3 Region Map ..............................6 Texas Facts ...............................7 Mileage Chart ..........................50 Region I – Praries and Lakes ... 8 Bonham .....................................9 Cleburne .............................. 10,11 Denison......................................12 DeSoto .......................................13 Ennis ........................................... 11 Granbury ................................... 14 Greenville ............................. 15,16 Hilllsboro................................ 16,17 Killeen ........................................18 0HVTXLWH............................... 19,20 Paris ............................................21 Sherman ....................................22 Terrell ..........................................23 Waxahachie .............................24 Region II – Hill Country ............. 25 Georgetown .............................26
< Gonzales ............ A tour of Texas is not complete until you trace its history back to Gonzales. The only city in Texas that retains its original Mexican survey with VHYHQ SXEOLF VTXDUHV LQ WKH shape of a cross.
28 32
< Huntsville ............ See a Texas Hero stand tall in the heart of Texas. This rePDUNDEOH ÀJXUH VWDQGV feet tall. It is the tallest statue of an American hero. Huntsville is also loved for it’s many museums, shopping and dining experiences outside a big city.
Region III – South Texas Plains. 27 Gonzales ...................................28 Region IV – Piney Woods......... 29 Woodlands Resort ...............29 Conroe ......................................30 Henderson.................................31 Huntsville.................................... 32 Jacksonville ...............................33 Jefferson .................................... 34 Kilgore....................................35,36 Longview ...................................37 Nacogdoches ..........................38 Tyler ............................................39 Region IV – Gulf Coast ............ 40 Alvin ...........................................40 Angleton .............................. 42,43 Lodginging Host ...................43 Bay City .....................................44 Galveston ............................. 45,46 Brazosport .................................47 Orange ......................................48 Pearland....................................49
Must See!
Throughout the book you will find “ Must See!� boxes. These areas are intended to help the viewer find true gems within that city. Sam Rayburn House................9 Layland Museum ..................11 Eisenhower’s Birthplace .........12 Nance Farm ..........................13 Roadside America .................17 Mayborn Planetarium & Space Theater ............18 The Eiffel Tower ...................21 Terrell Historical Tours .........23 Lone Star Monument ...........30
Henderson Depot Museum ...31 Henderson Civic Theater ......31 Huntsville Sam Houston .......34 East Texas Oil Museum .........32 Gregg County Historical Museum .......37 Matagorda County Museum .......................44 Moody Gardens ....................46 Stark House/Shangri La .........48
Over 500 GREAT ideas for a perfect group tour itinerary.
< Bay City ............ Complete a group tour with alluring Matagorda County as your destination. Relax by WKH EHDFK HQMR\ ÀQJHU OLFNing good barbecue or the freshest seafood this state has to offer.
44 4
FAM Tour planners and operators - Canton )RU $GYHUWLVLQJ ,QTXLULHV
6 Texas Region Map
East to West Texas
See the coverage area that the East To West Texas Group Tour Manual covers. A helpful map that will guide you along the way.
7 Texas Facts
Learn a few tidbits while traveling this great state.
8 Praries & Lakes Region Map
A map of the region with complete contact listing.
25 Texas Hill Country Region Map
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A map of the region with complete contact listing.
27 South Texas Praries Region Map
A map of the region with complete contact listing.
29 Piney Woods Region Map
A map of the region with complete contact listing.
40 Gulf Coast Region Map
TEXAS STATE TRAVEL INFORMATION CENTERS
A map of the region with complete contact listing.
Amarillo ,QWHUVWDWH +Z\ (
Laredo ,QWHUVWDWH +Z\ 1
45 Should You Consider Domestic Travel Insurance?
Anthony 6 'HVHUW %OYG
Orange ,QWHUVWDWH +Z\ (
Austin &DSLWRO &RPSOH[
Texarkana 1 3DUN 5G ,QWHUVWDWH +Z\
50 Mileage Chart
A helpful chart that measures distances between cities.
Denison 8 6 +LJKZD\ Gainesville 1 ,QWHUVWDWH Harlingen Langtry 8 6 +LJKZD\ /RRS
Valley : +DUULVRQ Waskom , (DVW Wichita Falls &HQWUDO )UHHZD\ ([LW & 1RUWK
NEED MORE INFORMATION?
• For East Texas trip routing help, call our advertisers. For updates of the Guide, check our Home Page www.EastTexasGuide.com. For more local information, call cities in the Guide. • For statewide travel counseling within Texas, call TxDOT Travel Information at 1-800-452-9292.
• For camping reservations, and for hunting and fishing license information, call the Texas Parks & Wildlife at 512-389-8900. • For more information on historical preservations, architectural, archaeological, and cultural landmarks call the Texas Historical Commission. 512-463-6100
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REGION MAP
REGION MAP
REGION MAP
Prairies & Lakes
Piney Woods
Gulf Coast
People often think of Texas as a wideopen state with tumble weeds and hot deserts all around. We Texans consider this great state a whole ‘nother country all in its own... filled with beautiful green pastures and heavily wooded areas. This is exactly what you will find touring around the Prairies & Lakes area. We know you will be mesmerized at its year long beauty.
The Piney Woods is sometimes referred to as East Texas or Deep East Texas. The Piney Woods Region is so named because much of the region is covered by tall pine tree forests. The Piney Woods Region is where the Texas Oil Boom began, in towns like Kilgore, Longview and Marshall. You can see the Spanish influence in the Piney Woods Region in towns like Nagodoches, which began as a Spanish fort in the 1700s.
The Gulf Coast Region is a long, narrow slice of Texas along the Gulf of Mexico, with 624 miles of shoreline, running from Sabine Pass in the north, south to the Rio Grande River. Among the Gulf Coast towns are marshsurrounded Beaumont, historical Galveston, tropical Corpus Christi, Matagorda County and Baytown.
REGION MAP Panhandle Plains The Texas Panhandle Plains Region covers the area of Texas that looks like a panhandle, that being the rectangle shaped northernmost part of Texas, between New Mexico and Oklahoma. The Panhandle Plains Regions extends east almost to Fort Worth and south to Interstate 20.
REGION MAP Big Bend Country Explore the untamed paradise of the western most region of Texas ablaze in the fiery colors of the sunset, with rugged mountains carved by time and a desert abounding with startling beauty. In this hauntingly serene place once known as el desplobado, “the place without people,” take a step back in time. Big Bend, the first national park in Texas, compromises more than 1,250 square miles and is home to half of all the species of birds found in America.
REGION MAP Hill Country Texas Hill Country starts in the west in Crockett county, to Austin and Travis county in the east, with Mills county the northern fringe of Hill Country with Kinney, Uvalde and Medina counties making the southern end. The capital of Texas, Austin, is the Hill Country Big City.
(Austin)
REGION MAP South Texas Plains The South Texas Plains Region covers San Antonio at its north end to the Mexican border in the south. San Antonio is the biggest attraction in the South Texas Plains, with its Riverwalk, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, Sea World and, of course, the Alamo. Other cities can be found along the I-10 corridor.
(Bluebonnet)
Facts About Texas Texas is the only state that was once a sovereign nation, The Republic of Texas. Texas had its own armed forces including a Navy, currency and representatives to the United States. And Texas reserved the right to divide itself into five separate states after its annexation in 1845 to gain more senators to represent its vast area if the need ever arose. To know Texas is to love Texas. Friendly is literally the name of our state, so called for the Tejas Indians.
Here are some more facts: Population est. 2008; 24,326,974. Area, 267,339 square miles, of which more than 6,000 square miles is water. The capital is Austin; nickname, Lone Star State, named for the star on the flag. The state flower is the bluebonnet and the motto is friendship. The highest point, 8,751 Ft. Guadalupe Peak. From the panhandle to the southern tip of Texas is 801 miles. And 773 miles from Sabine River to El Paso. Our temperatures have ranged from -23F to 120F. Speed limit, up to 70 mph or as posted. We are in the Central Time Zone (DST) except far West Texas. Minimum age for drivers, 16 with approved driver education course; 18 without. We use the information in the Guide as our data base for our Home Page on the Internet. Call our staff at 903-757-4444 today to learn how you can benefit from participation in our program.
(Mocking Bird)
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Texas was the 28th state in the USA; it was admitted on December 29, 1845. State Capital - Austin Largest City - Houston Name for Residents - Texans Major Industries - petroleum and natural gas, farming (cotton, livestock), steel, banking, insurance, tourism Presidential Birthplaces Dwight David Eisenhower was born in Denison on October 14, 1890 (he was the 34th US President, serving from 1953 to 1961). Lyndon Baines Johnson was born near Johnson City on August 27, 1908 (he was the 36th US President, serving from 1963 to 1969). Main Rivers - Rio Grande, Red River, Brazos River Highest Point - Guadalupe Peak, 8,749 feet (2,667 m) above sea level Number of Counties - 254 Bordering States - Arkansas, Louisiana, New Mexico, Oklahoma Bordering Country - Mexico Bordering Body of Water - Gulf of Mexico Origin of the Name Texas - The Caddo Indians of eastern Texas called their group of tribes the “Tejas,” meaning “those who are friends”. State Nickname - The Lone Star State State Motto - Friendship State Song - “Texas, Our Texas”
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Prairies and Lakes Region Map 1
Spotlight Cities BONHAM (A5) Fort Inglish Village; Fannin County Museum of Hist.; Sam Rayburn House Mus.; Sam Rayburn Library; Red River Trails through Wine Country. Bonham Area Visitor Center 327 N. Main St., Bonham, Texas 75418 903-583-9830 - info@visitbonham.com www.VisitBonham.com
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3
A
4
Pottsboro
Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge
Nacona Bowie
Gainesville Caddo-LBJ National Grasslands
B
35
Tioga
Sanger
Denton
35E
Grand Prarie Mansfield
Cooper Lake
Greenville
Wright Patman Lake
30
30
Winnsboro
Lake Tawakoni
Terrell
Lake O’ The Pines
Wills Point Grand Saline
Ca L
Mesquite Canton Ennis 45
Glen Rose
Athens
Malakoff
35E
Cedar Creek Res
Corsicana Hillsboro
Hico
Lake Whitney zv
Hasse Comanche
F
Bogota
DeSoto
35W
Dinosaur Valley State Park
E
Texarkana
Cooper
Waxahachie Cleburne
Stephenville
McKinney
Sulpher Mt. Springs Vernon
Dallas
FT. Worth
Powderly Paris
Gambill Wildlife Refuge
Richardson
Addison Irving
Granbury
Lake Crook Pat Mayse State Park
Denison Sherman Bonham Howe
Allen Plano
35W
D
Caddo National Grassland
6
Ray Roberts Lake State Park
Decatur
C CLEBURNE (D3) Just minutes away from Ft. Worth, Cleburne is a welcome vacation for many city dwellers. The area is surrounded by the beautiful Texas countryside and many must see areas in the region. Cleburne Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau 1511 W Henderson, Cleburne, Texas 76033 (817) 645-2455, Fax (817) 641-3069 cwatson@cleburnechamber.com www.CleburneChamber.com
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Richland Chambers Lake
Clifton Hamilton
Fairfield
Mexia
Palestine
Waco
Gatesville
Buffalo Hewitt
DENISON (A4) (LVHQKRZHU¡V %LUWKSODFH DQWLTXHV ZLQHU\ DUW galleries, railroad museum, frontier village, Lake Texoma, monthly events, motels, B&B inns. 75 miles N. of Dallas. Denison Chamber of Commerce 313 West Woodard Street, Denison, Texas 75020 - 903-465-1551 www.DenisonTexas.us
G
Copperas Cove
Jewett
35
Killeen
45
Temple Belton
H
Hearne
Cameron
Elgin
ENNIS(D4) Bluebonnet Trails, Polka Festivals, RR museum, Texas Motorplex, Drive-in Theatre, Lake Bardwell, great shopping and lodging. Ennis Convention and Visitors Bureau 002 East Ennis Avenue, Ennis, Texas 75119 972-878-4748 www.VisitEnnis.org
J
Bastrop
HILLSBORO (E3) Welcome to Hillsboro, a city brimming with central Texas culture and history. Hillsboro offers small town appeal with intimate shops and cafĂŠs in the historic downtown district. Hillsboro Area Chamber of Commerce 115 N. Covington - P.O. Box 358 Hillsboro, TX 76645 - 254-582-2481 www.HillsboroChamber.org KILLEEN (G3) Conveniently located between FT. Worth and Austin. Many festivals and attractions to visit. Killeen Convention & Visitors Bureau 3601 South W.S. Young Drive, Killeen, Texas 76541. 254-501-3888 www.VisitKilleen.com
GRANBURY (D2)
Nestled between the Upper Hill Country and North Texas is a hidden jewel called Granbury. Granbury Convention & Visitors Bureau 116 W. Bridge St. Granbury, TX 76048 800-950-2212 www.GranburyTX.com GREENVILLE (B5) Downtown Greenville is a treasure trove of HFOHFWLF ULFKHV 9LVW XV IRU D IXQ ÀOOHG GD\ RI shopping! Greenville Chamber/Convention & Visitors Bureau 2713 Stonewall Street, Texas 75403 903-455-1510 www.GreenvilleChamber.com
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MESQUITE (C4) 6DYRU WKH Ă DYRU LQ 0HVTXLWH -XVW PLQXWHV east of Dallas, enjoy superb shopping, delectable dining and affordable accommodaWLRQV +RPH RI WKH DLU FRQGLWLRQHG 0HVTXLWH Championship Rodeo. Mesquite Convention & Visitors Bureau 757 North Galloway Ave., Texas 75149 Judy Skowron, Director 800-541-2355 or 972-204-4928 www.RealTexasFlavor.com PARIS (A5) Visit this enchanting gateway to Texas, Paris style. The “Crape Myrtle City of Texasâ€? features historic and art museums, daylily gardens, European public art works, and a
Lake Livingston
Bryan College Station Caldwell Navasota
I
35
Madisonville
Milano
Rockdale
Giddings
DESOTO(D4) Beautiful hist.downtown, shopping galore, IDQWDVWLF IRRG KRWHOV VSDV DQWLTXHV 3HDUFH Civil War Museum, hist. homes, Palace Theatre, Pocket Park, Pioneer Village, Gander Mountain, Warehouse Living Arts Theatre, Richland Chambers Lake. Cook Education Center, Navarro College. DeSoto Chamber of Commerce & Visitors Center 2010 N. Hampton Road, Suite 200, DeSoto, Texas 75115 - 972-224-3565 admin@desotochamber.org www.DeSotoChamber.org
Franklin
Rosebud
Brenham
State Park Lake Conroe
45
Rest Areas Attraction Must See
historic downtown featuring an Italian marEOH IRXQWDLQ DQWLTXH PDOOV VSHFLDOW\ JLIW DQWLTXH FROOHFWLEOH VWRUHV DQG UHVWDXUDQWV Paris Visitor’s & Convention Council 8 West Plaza in Historic Downtown, Paris, Texas 75460. 1-800-ParisTx or 1-800-727-4789 www.ParisTexas.com SHERMAN (A4) Lake Texoma, Hagerman Wildlife Refuge, Red River Museum. Live theater, live music. Sherman Department of Tourism P.O. Box 1106, Sherman, Texas 75091 903-957-0310 – 888-893-1188 www.ShermanTx.org TERRELL (C4) Terrell Heritage Society sponsors: the Terrell Heritage Museum, Annual Tour of Homes, Historic melodramas, special group tours & programs. Terrell Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau 1314 W. Moore Avenue, Terrell, Texas 75160. 1-877-TERRELL www.TerrellTexas.com WAXAHACHIE (D4) $QWLTXHV 6SHFLDOW\ 6KRSV %HG %UHDNIDVWV & More! Waxahachie Convention & Visitors Bureau 2000 Civic Center Lane, Waxahachie, Texas 75165. 972-938-3434 Fax: 972-923-1085 www.Waxahachie.com
Did you know?
Bonham
Welcome to Bonham‌the oldest and most friendly town in the historic Red River Valley. Located just 70 miles QRUWKHDVW RI WKH '): 0HWURSOH[ DUHD %RQKDP KDV PDQ\ XQLTXH DWWUDFWLRQV WKDW JXDUDQWHH D PHPRUDEOH stay in our comfortable and interesting hometown. Home to the Sam Rayburn House and Library, Bonham boasts outdoor recreation, cultural arts, street festivals, rodeos, monthly trade days, a historical winery and much more o to ore entertain you. Visitors will be surprised to discover a community tucked away in Fannin County that embodiess the true spirit of authentic Texas culture.
ATTRACTIONS Sam Rayburn Library &RQWDLQV DQ H[DFW UHSOLFD RI WKH RIÀFH RI WKH Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives during the 17 years WKDW ´0U 6DP¾ KHOG WKDW RIÀFH :HVW 6DP 5D\EXUQ 'ULYH 903-583-2455 Sam Rayburn House- Built in 1916 the home contains original furnishings, candid photographs and personal belongings of Mr. Rayburn. 890 W State Hwy 56 Bonham. 903-583-5558 Fort Inglish- The fort has three 1830’s log cabins which are furnished as a trading post, a prairie home, and an exhibit honoring Inez Inglish, great granddaughter of Bailey Inglish, the founder of Bonham. Highway 56 & Chinner. 903-583-3943 Creative Art Center- Venue where artists, jewelry makers, potters, photographers, musicians and actors can show their work. 200 West 5th Street. 903-640-2196 www.CreativeArtsCenter.us Fannin County Museum of History- Displays the history of Fannin &RXQW\ IURP LWV EHJLQQLQJ WR WKH ¡V &RQWDLQV D ÀUH HQJLQH airplane, vintage clothing, fossils and much more. 1 N. Main St. 903-583-8042
LODGING
Must See!
Americans Best Value Inn - 1515 Old Ector 1-877-405-star www.5-StarInn.com
The Sam Rayburn House Museum
Bonham Inn - 501 Lipscomb ST 903-583-2137
www.BonhamInn.com
Economy Inn - 713 East Sam Rayburn Drive 903-583-2154 Granny Lou’s Bed & Breakfast - 317 West Sam Rayburn Drive 903-640-6295 or 903-583-7912 www.GrannyLou.com Carleton House Bed & Breakfast - 803 N. Main 1-800-382-8033 www.CarletonHouse.com
TRANSPORTATION Airport- Jones Field Airport has a 4000ft. lighted runway. VOR and GPS approaches. Visitor’s area and restrooms.
CONTACT Bonham Area Visitor Center The Sam Rayburn House Museum, a Texas Historical Commission propHUW\ LV KRPH RI 6DP 5D\EXUQ RQH RI WKH PRVW SRZHUIXO DQG LQĂ€XHQWLDO politicians of the 20th century. The home exists today as a 20th century time capsule that preserves the Rayburn family home of the 1960s.
327 N. Main St. Bonham, Texas 75418 903-583-9830 info@visitbonham.com www.VisitBonham.com
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Cleburne
Did you know?
Located 40 minutes south of Ft. Worth and one hour from Dallas, Cleburne has something for everyone. From the Santa Fe Railroad and the Chisholm Trail for history buffs to live theater, VFHQLF ODNH YLHZ JROI FRXUVH DQWLTXH VKRSV JUHDW UHVWDXUDQWV DQG DFFRPPRGDWLRQV IRU HYHU\ b budget, it is a delightful get-a-way from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. So come on down to Cleburne and start making memories‌. Texas Style!
ATTRACTIONS Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum -brings to life that by gone area with historical buildings and a life-size silhouette of a cattle drive. 817-648-1486 www.jcchisholmtrail.com Steam Engine 3417 - located in Hulen Park, revives the history of the one hundred years the Santa Fe Railroad was a major employer in Cleburne. Historic Homes of Cleburne -Take a driving tour through the historic homes of Cleburne and relive a gracious and simpler time in our history. The Johnson County Courthouse -is a beautiful example of early 20th century architecture and houses the Johnson County Historical Museum. 204 S Buffalo Ave, Cleburne, TX 76033 817-556-6300 www.JohnsonCountyTtx.org Layland Museum of History -Was built in 1905 and is one of only 13 Carnegie Library buildings still in existence in Texas. 201 N. Caddo St. Cleburne, TX, 76033 817-645-0940 Cleburne Historic Outdoor Mural -216’ ft. long in downtown Cleburne depicts the history of Johnson County from the earliest Spanish explorers to the present day energy boom. Plaza Theater -Enjoy live entertainment. Running 52 weeks a year you will be delighted with their professional performances. Carnegie Players also perform at the city performing arts center seasonally. 111 S. Main St. Cleburne, TX 76033 817-202-0600 www.Plaza-Theatre.com
GROUP DINING $ YDULHW\ RI UHVWDXUDQWV DUH DYDLODEOH WR VHUYH JURXSV TXLFNO\ DQG HIĂ€FLHQWO\ QR PDWWHU ZKDW WKH PHQX FKRLFH WKURXJKRXW the city. Outside catering at local attractions can also be arranged, making your tour a special and even more memorable event. Contact the Cleburne Chamber C.V.B. and we will be glad to assist you with arrangements.
LODGING Almost every major limited service hotel chain is represented in Cleburne, as well as historic accommodations, independent properties and B&B’s. All are eager to work with your group to insure you have a pleasant stay. Many offer free breakfast with their rooms as well as other amenities that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for your next day of adventure.
CONTACT Cleburne Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau 1511 W Henderson, Cleburne, Texas 76033 (817) 645-2455, Fax (817) 641-3069 cwatson@cleburnechamber.com www.CleburneChamber.com
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TRANSPORTATION 7R UHDFK &OHEXUQH \RX FDQ Ă \ LQWR '): DLUSRUW PLOHV HDVW or Love Field, 65 miles east. Both have rental cars available. Amtrak services Cleburne from across the nation. Driving from Ft. Worth take I-35W south to Burleson exit (Hwy 174) and we are 12 miles south. From Dallas take I-35E to Hwy 67 and go south approximately 50 miles.
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES The Cleburne Chamber C.V.B. is available to help tour groups with special needs, tour guides, hotel accommodations, restaurant reservations, information packets, customized tours or any other needs that come up.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY *Spend the night at local accommodation with welcome reception and enjoy complimentary breakfast. *Tour Chisholm Trail Outdoor Museum and learn history of Cleburne’s involvement in the historic cattle drives along the trail and other interesting facts. *Tour Layland Museum of History, the only Texas museum solely dedicated to the study of home and family from North-Central Texas region. 7DNH D ZDONLQJ WRXU RI WKH GRZQWRZQ DQWLTXH DQG RWKHU VSHFLDOW\ VKRSV WR ÀQG WKDW SHUIHFW LWHP WR WDNH KRPH DQG WDNH pictures of the 216’ Chisholm Historic Outdoor Mural. +DYH OXQFK LQ RQH RI PDQ\ ÀQH UHVWDXUDQWV GRZQWRZQ RU ORcated throughout Cleburne. * Take a driving tour through the historic district of Cleburne and see many restored 19th and early 20th century homes that represent a simpler time. * Visit the Cleburne Memorial Cemetery and see the area dedicated to the Confederate soldiers who fell in battle during the Civil War from Johnson County. *Relax in Hulen Park and see Steam Engine 3417 that played a part in the growth of the west and was serviced by the Santa Fe Railroad, along with many others, in Cleburne for over a hundred years. *Take in a play at the Plaza Theater, a theater-in-the-round in downtown Cleburne who productions will rival any in the DFW area. * Enjoy another evening in your hotel before moving on.
Must See!
Layland Museum of History
This beautiful 1904 building now houses the Layland Museum in Cleburne, which offers a glimpse into the country’s history through collections of more than 10,000 items relating to American home life in north central Texas and the Southwest. Open Mon.–Fri. 9 a.m.–5 p.m.; second and fourth Sat. of the month, 10 a.m.–4 p.m. 201 N. Caddo. 817-645-0940. Carnegie Theater and Players is a restored historic theDWHU RQ WKH XSSHU ÁRRU RI WKH PXVHXP 7KH SOD\HUV SURduce four shows each year. 817-645-2455.
11
Denison
Did you know?
)URP WKH TXDLQW GRZQWRZQ VWUHHWV DQG KLVWRULFDO KRPHV WR WKH EHDXWLIXO FOLIIV DORQJ /DNH 7H[RPD WKLV DUHD of North Texas provides a relaxing escape for everyone. Historic downtown district has numerous art galleries and art destinations and is home to several international artists.
ATTRACTIONS Eisenhower’s Birthplace & Museum - Tues.-Sat. 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. Sun. 1-5 year around except for Christmas Day and New Years. Special bus parking area. Call ahead for large groups. 609 S. Lamar 903-465-8908 Grayson County Frontier Village -Consists of an old town replica from the1800’s complete with 20 structures containing memorabilia from that period. Open Daily 1 pm-4 pm year around. Weddings & reunions must book well in advance. 6SHFLDO WRXUV E\ DSSRLQWPHQW ZHHN¡V QRWLFH UHTXLUHG Loy Lake Rd. 903-463-2487 Lake Texoma - Is a water sports haven with over 580 miles of shoreline. 89,000 acres of water attracts over 10 million visitors DQQXDOO\ 5HFRUG ÀVKLQJ EHVW NQRZQ IRU LWV VWULSHUV FDWÀVK DQG black bass. Scenic drives around the shores of the lake. www.LakeTexoma.com Hagerman National Wildlfe Refuge -15 miles SW of Denison. Open year-round, free. Eleven thousand acres of Lake Texoma set aside to provide food and safe resting for migrating water fowl, and to assure the survival of all plant and animals species using the area. Great for bird watching, VLJKW VHHLQJ QDWXUH VWXG\ SKRWRJUDSK\ DQG ÀVKLQJ 903-786-2826 Downtown Walking Tour - 19 historic structures located in heart of downtown Main Street District. T.V. Munson Grape Viticulture & Enology Center - Grape vineyard and museum in honor of T. V. Munson, an honored Texan, decorated by the government of France for saving that country’s grape vineyards. Vineyard is operated by Grayson County College. 6101 Grayson Drive 903-463-8717 www.TvMunson.org Red River Railroad Museum - Located inside the Katy Depot, the museum features railroad memorabilia and static display of rail cars. 101 East Main St., Suite 145 903-463-KATY www.RedriverRailMuseum.org Perrin Air Force Base Museum - Museum dedicated to the SUHVHUYDWLRQ DQG WKH KLVWRU\ RI 3HUULQ $UP\ $LUÀHOG DQG 3HUULQ Air Force Base in Grayson County. 436 McCullum Avenue 903-786-8741 www.PerrinField.org
GROUP DINING :LWK PRUH WKDQ SRSXODU UHVWDXUDQWV \RX¡UH VXUH WR ÀQG RQH that will satisfy any taste. For a list of restaurants that can handle large groups call the Denison Chamber of Commerce.
CONTACT Denison Chamber of Commerce 313 West Woodard Street Denison, Texas 75020 903-465-1551 www.DenisonTexas.us
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LODGING From lakeside resorts and cabins to multi-story hotels and historic bed and breakfasts, Denison, Texas offers lodging for everyone from tourist to the business executive. Whether you come for a relaxing vacation or a business trip, Denison has exceptional accommodations you can count on.
TRANSPORTATION Airlines: DFW, 95 miles; Love Field Dallas, 70 miles; charter service available at Grayson County Airport. Bus Lines: Greyhound. Other Services: Rental Cars; Blake Utter Ford Charter Bus – Texoma Tours; Local taxi service. Sightseeing tours & Guides arranged through the Denison Convention & Visitors Bureau 903-465-1551. Historic walking and Driving Tour.
Must See!
Eisenhower’s Birthplace & Museum Located in the Heart of Denison! Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site showcases the home where the 34th U.S. President Dwight David “Ike� Eisenhower was born in 1890.
DeSoto
Did you know?
DeSoto is a city with a view of downtown Dallas! Located just 12 miles south of downtown Dallas, DeSoto offers visitors easy access to the Dallas/Fort Worth Metroplex, just minutes away via I-35 and , 'H6RWR KDV H[FHSWLRQDO VSRUWV IDFLOLWLHV UHWDLO VKRSSLQJ DQG D YDULHW\ RI UHVWDXUDQWV WR ÀW HYHU\ taste.
ATTRACTIONS The Corner Theatre - Home of the critically acclaimed African American Repertory Theater (AART), 211 E. Pleasant Run, 972-572-0998 Nance Farm - 1325 Greenbrook Drive (Mantlebrook Subdivision). Built in 1851, Nance Farm was designated as a recorded Texas Historical Landmark in 1976. 972-230-9694 Metroplex BMX $PHULFD¡V ÀUVW FRYHUHG IDFLOLW\ EXLOW exclusively for BMX racing. 1,000 yards of hand-packed dirt. 8OWLPDWH QDWLRQDO TXDOLW\ WUDFN 972-224-6664 www.MetroplexBMX.org DeSoto Parks - 21 park sites with combined area of 512 acres. Includes Grimes Park Baseball Complex, BMX Track, Roy Orr Trail and Windmill Hill Nature Preserve. The Rose Garden Antique Mall - Variety and volume of PHUFKDQGLVH LV DOZD\V FKDQJLQJ ([TXLVLWH YDULHW\ RI MHZHOU\ 901 N. Polk St, Suite 320. ZZZ 75*$QWLTXH0DOO FRP
LODGING America’s Best 972-224-8575
Value
1135 N I-35 East, 75115 www.AmericasBestValueInn.com
Hampton Inn & Suites - 1311 East Centre Park Boulevard, 75115 972-228-0200 www.DallasDeSotoSuites.HamptonInn.com
Must See!
Nance Farm
Historic Nance Farm, is located in the Mantlebrook Subdivision in DeSoto, Texas. Nance Farm was designated as a Recorded Texas Historical Landmark in 1976.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites - 1310 East Wintergreen Road, 75115 972-224-3100 www.HolidayInnExpress.com LaQuinta Inn -641 North I-35 East, 75115
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MCM Grande Hotel/Fundome - 1515 N Interstate 35 E, 75115 972-224-9100 www.MCMGrandeDeSoto.com Days Inn & Suites - 1401 North I-35E, 75115 972-224-7100 www.DaysInn.com TownePlace Suites by Mariott - 2700 Travis Street, 75115 972-780-9300 www.Marriott.com
Cowboys Stadium, Dallas and Fort Worth Zoo, The Ballpark Otway Bird Nance (1805-1874) brought his wife and ten chilDW $UOLQJWRQ 6XQGDQFH 6TXDUH DQG WKH 'DOODV $UWV 'LVWULFW WR dren from Illinois in 1851 and purchased 640 acres from Peter’s name a few attractions, are just minutes away. Colony. The Nance patriarch built the milking barn and the KRPH WKDW VDPH \HDU +H DFTXLUHG PRUH ODQG DQG ZLWKLQ WKH CONTACT next several years, the Nance Farm property had doubled in DeSoto Chamber of Commerce size. & Visitors Center 1325 Greenbrook Drive, DeSoto, TX 75115 Want to know more about historic Nance Farm? Contact 972-230-9694 or lstallings@ci.desoto.tx.us.
2010 N. Hampton Road, Suite 200, DeSoto, Texas 75115 972-224-3565 admin@desotochamber.org www.DeSotoChamber.org
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Granbury
Did you know?
Nestled between the Upper Hill Country and North Texas is a hidden jewel called Granbury. Our city tagline is “Where N Texas History Lives,â€? and while Granbury has embodied that slogan since 1887, we continue to be the place where Texas history is still alive, as seen all around town, at our lake and city beach, with award-winning arts and culture, LQVLGH KLGGHQ FXOLQDU\ ORFDWLRQV DQG ZDONLQJ DURXQG 7H[DV¡ PRVW KLVWRULF FRXUWKRXVH VTXDUH
Let us envelope your group in Granbury’s culinary experience, wine culture, and world class entertainment venues‌
ATTRACTIONS
Your group will be amazed at the newly renovated 1886 Granbury Opera House, which now hosts productions by the Granbury Theatre Company. See a fantastic musical, drama or even a comedy in this state of the art restored theatre.
GATHER
on the Brazos
The Big City Music Revue features nostalgic renditions of American favorites of all musical styles including Motown, country and pop through the decades. These familiar tunes will delight your tour group, and bring new life to some of their favorite hits from yesteryear. 7KURXJKRXW WKH \HDU WKH *UDQEXU\ 6TXDUH DOVR KRVWV D YDULHW\ of musicians and small concerts. Year-round festivals almost always include live entertainment, ranging from dance and swing bands to country and folk singers.
GROUP DINING A favorite among many tour operators is Babe’s Chicken Dinner House, which can easily accommodate large groups with its open dining area and family style service. Your guests will love the authentic rock walls and convenient location just RII WKH *UDQEXU\ 6TXDUH 8QLTXH FDWHULQJ RSSRUWXQLWLHV DOVR H[LVW LQ PDQ\ RI WKH YHQues mentioned below.
WHERE MEMORIES COME EASY. Let us design an experience that your clients will not soon forget.
800-950-2212
LODGING Granbury offers a wide variety of lodging accommodations for groups. There are limited service, full service and bed and breakfast options available, many with lakeside views RU RWKHU XQLTXH DPHQLWLHV For more information on group travel in Granbury, including lodging, please call the Granbury CVB.
GROUP ACTIVITES Granbury hosts many museums and historic sites. Groups interested in Texas history may want to tour the Yeates-Duke Working Museum or the Jail Museum, while others may be more interested in the Doll House Museum or an art exhibit. Granbury hosts an exhibit or museum for almost anything your travelers might be interested in. Those groups with a taste for adventure should be sure to book a private tour with the Granbury Ghosts and Legends Tour or the Last Mile Cemetery Tour. According to these folks, *UDQEXU\ LV ZKHUH 7H[DV KLVWRULFDO ÀJXUHV OLYH RQ
CONTACT Granbury Convention & Visitors Bureau 116 W. Bridge St., Granbury, TX 76048 800.950.2212 www.GranburyTX.com
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GRANBURYTX.COM
CULINARY ACTIVITIES Located within 15 miles of downtown Granbury are three vineyards- Barking Rocks Winery, Bluff Dale Vineyards, Pemberton Cellars- and Revolver Brewing, one of the fastest growing microbreweries in the state. Each of these venues ZHOFRPH JURXSV RI WKH PRVW GLVFHUQLQJ WUDYHOHUV $ XQLTXH winery, specializing in group events, is located right on the KLVWRULF VTXDUH Artisanal cheeses can be found at the award winning Eagle Mountain Cheese Company, made from milk sourced from the owner’s own herd of Brown Swiss dairy cows. Special arrangements can be made for your group to learn about the cheese making process. $PRQJ WKH PDQ\ ERXWLTXH VKRSSLQJ RSSRUWXQLWLHV RQ WKH 6TXDUH \RX¡OO ÀQG WKH 3DQ +DQGOH ZKLFK KDV VSHFLDOW\ FRRNware and even hosts cooking classes for groups.
Did you know?
Greenville
Greenville is ideally located 45 minutes east of Dallas on Interstate 30, making it the perfect gateway to big city attractions or to scenic East Texas. We offer more than 1,000 hotel/motel rooms, local cafes and national restaurant chains and several live music venues. Established in 1846, our historic downtown features wineries, DQWLTXHV DQG VSHFLDOW\ VKRSSLQJ DQG SXEOLF JDUGHQV
ATTRACTIONS
LODGING
Historic Downtown ² :LQHULHV DQWLTXH PDOOV VSHFLDOW\ VKRSping, historic walking tour, live music venues and public gardens. Easy bus parking at Farmer’s Market, 2201 East Lee.
Greenville has more than 1,000 sleeping rooms at major hotels/motels, many of which offer complimentary breakfasts and which can easily accommodate free motorcoach parking. Contact the Greenville Chamber/Convention and VisiWRUV %XUHDX IRU RWKHU EHQHÀWV DQG LQIRUPDWLRQ WR VHOHFW WKH best property for your group’s needs.
Audie Murphy/ American Cotton Museum - Exhibits include WWII hero and movie star Audie Murphy, local baseball great Monty Stratton, cotton industry. 600 IH 30 903-450-4502 http://www.cottonmuseum.com/ Mary of Puddin Hill Chocolate Factory – See a chocolate production line like the one in the famous “I Love Lucyâ€? episode; enjoy dozens of wonderful confections. 201 IH 30 E. 903-455-2651 www.puddinhill.com Heritage Garden 2201 Washington, plants that thrive in this area; • The SPOT (Smart Park of Texas), demonstrates principles of Smart Growth; • Biblical Garden, 2516 Park Street, showing plants mentioned in the Bible. 903-583-0082 W.W. Harrison Library/Genealogy and Local History Collection2QH RI WKH Ă€QHVW JHQHDORJ\ DQG 7H[DV KLVWRU\ UHVHDUFK FHQters in the state. 1 Lou Finney Lane
GROUP DINING Local eateries and national chains offer everything from homestyle burgers and barbecue to steaks, seafood, Italian and Chinese cuisine. TaMolley’s, Cracker Barrel, Shumardii’s Steakhouse, Two Senoritas, and East Rock Buffet (all on I-30) DUH DPRQJ WKRVH HTXLSSHG WR KDQGOH ODUJH JURXSV
TRANSPORTATION Greenville is located at the juncture of I-30, US 69, US 380, HWY 34 and HWY 224. We are about half way between Sulphur Springs and Dallas on I-30; half way between Sherman/ Denison and Mineola on US 69; and halfway between Terrell and Honey Grove on HWY 34. We are less than 25 miles from Lake Fork, Lake Tawakoni, Cooper Lake, Lake Ray Hubbard and Lake Lavon.
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES The Greenville Chamber/CVB staff is ready to help plan your itinerary. Visitor packets can be ready the day of your trip or in advance. An “Introduction to Greenville� complimentary DVD is also available to show your group what to expect when they arrive. ITINERARY CONTINUED ON NEXT PAGE........
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Audie Murphy Museum • Chocolate Factory • Genealogy Center • Historic Downtown • Public Gardens
www.greenvillechamber.com or call the Greenville Chamber of Commerce/CVB at 903-455-1510 This advertisement funded in part with City of Greenville Hotel/Motel Tax Revenues
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Greenville/Hillsboro SUGGESTED ITINERARY Day 1: Visitors are in for a sweet experience when they start their day with a trip to Mary of Puddin Hill Chocolate and Fruitcake Factory! Dozens of candies, pastries and other confections tempt you as you take this fascinating tour. Then get ready to be inspired as you see the Hall of Heroes at the Audie Murphy /American Cotton Museum. A new 3,700 SF wing focuses on WWII. After a hearty lunch at one of Greenville’s many restaurants, head into our Historic Downtown where ORYHO\ SXEOLF JDUGHQV DQWLTXH VKRSV ZLQHULHV FORWKLQJ DQG JLIW ERXWLTXHV DUH DOO ORFDWHG DPLG VWDWH DQG QDWLRQDO KLVWRULF landmarks. Your afternoon may stretch into evening as live music is often offered at several venues downtown. Day 2: After a restful stay at a Greenville hotel, you can be in “Big D� in less than 45 minutes if you head west. See the Sixth Floor Museum, Dallas Museum of Art, world-class Dallas Zoo or exhibits at Dallas Fair Park. Or head east to see the Planetarium at Texas A& M- Commerce on your way to the Southwest Dairy Museum and Education Center in Sulphur Springs. Either way, Greenville is the gateway to the best of the exciting Dallas/Fort Worth metroplex and to scenic East Texas.
CONTACT Greenville Chamber/Convention and Visitors Bureau 2713 Stonewall Street, Texas 75403 Milton Babb, Tourism Director 903-455-1510 www.GreenvilleChamber.com
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You will love Greenville!
Did you know?
Hillsboro
Hillsboro a city brimming with central Texas culture and history. The City of Hillsboro is recognized as a 2011 Main Street City (proudly three years in a row). Hillsboro offers small town appeal with intimate shops and cafĂŠs in the historic downtown district, while bustling with the growth of larger businesses, outlet shopping and restaurants. Discover the warmth and charm of Hillsboro, for a weekend of shopping or a lifetime of possibilities.
ATTRACTIONS Hill County Cell Block Museum - Located one block north of the Courthouse in the old county jail house (1893 – 1983), was awarded a Texas Historical Marker in 1981 and is entered in the National Register of Historic Places. The Museum was the old county jail, completed in 1893. The architect was W.C. Dodson, who also designed the Hill County Courthouse. The jail was built by Lovell & Hood at a cost of $26,220. The front SDUW RI WKH EXLOGLQJ VHUYHG DV OLYLQJ TXDUWHUV IRU WKH VKHULII¡V family, and the rear housed the cell blocks, kitchen facilities, DQG VKHULII¡V RIĂ€FH 3ULVRQHUV ZHUH NHSW KHUH XQWLO $SULO RI at which time the Hill County Historical Commission obtained the “old jailâ€? to restore and use as a county museum. The Hill County Cell Block Museum is open to the public every Saturday from 10:00 am until 4:00 pm, during the months of April through October, and by special arrangement. Hill County Museum, Inc., P.O. Box 555, Hillsboro, Texas 76645 254) 582-8912 www.HillsboroTX.org Texas Heritage Museum - One of the best museums of its kind in the nation, the Texas Heritage Museum, located on the campus of Hill College in Hillsboro, commemorates the experiences of Texans during war times.The museum features Civil War, World War II & Audie Murphy (right), and Vietnam exhibits and includes a Weapons Gallery. The newly remodHOHG PXVHXP RIIHUV D VWDWH RI WKH DUW WKHDWUH IHDWXULQJ Ă€OPV highlighting the contents of the museum. 254-582-2555 www.HillCollege.edu/museum Historical Research Center - The History Complex also houses the Confederate Research Center, established in 1963. It is built around a library of over 5,000 volumes dealing with the War Between the States. It is perhaps the most extensive library on this subject in the southwest. The center also has extensive archives that house many original manuscripts, diaries and letters from the War period. The museum and Research Center are open Mon-Thur from 8:30am-4:30pm & Fri from 8:30am-4pm. For more information on the Harold B. Simpson History Complex, 254-582-2555 x295 www.HillCollege.edu/museum/museum
MKT (Katy) Depot 2II WKH KLVWRULF FRXUWKRXVH VTXDUH LQ GRZQtown Hillsboro . Filled with railroad artifacts and railroad pictures. Location of the Hillsboro Visitor Center and Chamber of Commerce/Convention and Visitors Bureau. 254-582-2481 director@hillsborochamber.org Outdoor Recreation - Outdoor recreation is available for the nature enthusiasts and those interested in active endeavors. Lake Whitney, located approximately 15 miles west of Hillsboro, provides an outlet for those wanting to take in the fresh air, try out their watercraft, or try to catch the one that always gets away. Hillsboro also offers excellent parks for family activities and picnic options, as well as a nine-hole golf course to improve the golfer’s handicap.
GROUP DINING Several Group dining locations are available in Hillsboro that can accommodate small groups of 10-30 people and larger groups of 50-100 people. Please contact the Convention & Visitors Bureau when scheduling your trip to Hillsboro, we will be delighted to help you arrange your dining experience in Hillsboro.
SHOPPING Historic Downtown Shopping, $QWLTXH 0DOOV 2XWOHW 0DOOV and Clothing . Outlets at Hillsboro - 104 IH 35 NE, Hillsboro, Texas 76645 254-582-9205 www.OutletsAtHillsboro.com $ OLVW RI DQWLTXH VKRSV DUH DYDLODOH DW WKH &RQYHQWLRQ 9LVWRUV Bureau. 115 N. Covington, Hillsboro Texas 76645 1-800-HILLSBORO
LODGING Visit our website or call Hillsboro Chamber of Commerce for a complete listing of overnight accommodations.
Must See!
Hill County Courthouse 5HVWRUHG IURP D GHYDVWDWLQJ ÀUH New Year’s Day 1993, the Hill County Courthouse serves as the domLQDQW V\PERO IRU +LOO &RXQW\ 5HVWRUDWLRQ RI WKH EXLOGLQJ ÀUVW EXLOW in 1890 took over six years and $9 million dollars to complete. The courthouse is now open for visitors to tour and marvel at its grandeur. Historic City Hall (127 East Franklin) serves as the Convention and Visitors Bureau. For more information, contact the Chamber. 254-582-2481 chamber@hillsborochamber.org
CONTACT Hillsboro Area Chamber of Commerce 115 N. Covington, P.O. Box 358 Hillsboro, Texas 76645 800.HILLSBORO or 254-582-2481 www.HillsboroChamber.org
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Did you know?
Killeen
Meet! Play! Eat! Stay! Visit Killeen, one of the fastest growing cities in Texas, and proud neighbor of Fort Hood, the largest military installation in the free world! Located west off IH-35 on SH 190, this diverse community is home to over 150 restaurants ZKLFK IHDWXUH WKH XQLTXH à DYRUV RI WKH PRUH WKDQ GLIIHUHQW FXOWXUHV OLYLQJ KHUH :LWK RYHU KRWHO FKRLFHV WKHUH¡V D SODFH WR VWD\ WKDW ÀWV DQ\ EXGJHW 7KH .LOOHHQ &LYLF DQG &RQIHUHQFH &HQWHU DQG WKH .LOOHHQ )RUW +RRG 5HJLRQDO $LUSRUW DOORZ \RX WR meet, and arrive in style. Killeen has something for everyone! Come and see why we’re proud to be Where Freedom Grows!
ATTRACTIONS Killeen Civic and Conference Center - Beautiful event space for 20 to 2,000! Additional space available on site at the Exposition Hall or Rodeo grounds. 254-501-3888 www.VisitKilleen.com Stonetree Golf Club -18-hole championship course state-of the art practice facilities, grill and pro shop. 1600 Stonetree Drive. 254-501-6570 www.GolfKilleen.com Mayborn Planetarium and Space Theater - Large Format Films, Laser Light Shows and Sky Shows for all ages! Located on the Campus of Central Texas College. 254-526-1800 www.StarsAtNight.org Vive Les Arts Theatre - Killeen’s Community Theatre with comedies, dramas and musicals for all ages. 3401 South W.S. Young Drive. 254-526-9090 www.VLATheatre.com Fort Hood - The largest military installation in the free world! Home to the 1st Cavalry and 3rd ACR Museums, historical VLWHV DQG PRUH 9LVLWRUV SDVVHV DUH UHTXLUHG 254-288-2865 www.Hood.army.mil Texas Thunder Speedway - Stock car races, funny cars and demolition derby! May-September. 3408 West Stan Schlueter Loop. 254-628-2888 www.TexasThunder.com
Must See!
Mayborn Planetarium & Space Theater GROUP DINING )URP ÀQH GLQLQJ WR IDVW IRRG .LOOHHQ KDV LW DOO 7HPSW WKH WDVWH EXGV with Hawaiian, Korean, Thai, Greek, Italian or Mexican! There DUH RYHU XQLTXH FXOWXUHV KHUH DQG LW VKRZV LQ WKH IRRG
LODGING Killeen offers a wide variety of accommodations. The city is home to 40 hotels, which boast more than 1800 rooms and 600 suites, featuring all the amenities your group needs for a great stay.
TRANSPORTATION Killeen is located within a three hour drive from 80% of the 6WDWH RI 7H[DV &DWFK D GLUHFW Ă LJKW DW WKH *UHDWHU .LOOHHQ )RUW Hood Regional Airport (GRK) through American Eagle (DFW), Continental (HOU) and Delta (ATL).
CONTACT
The Planetarium is available by reservation for groups from 50-180. Groups from 20-50 can reserve seats at one of our weekend public planetarium shows or during one of our scheduled weekday school shows.
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Killeen Convention & Visitors Bureau 3601 South W.S. Young Drive, Killeen, Texas 76541 254-501-3888 info@killeen-cvb.com www.VisitKilleen.com
Did you know?
Mesquite
If you’re looking for a group tour with Real. Texas. Flavor., then try Mesquite, the eastern gateway to the 'DOODV )RUW :RUWK 0HWURSOH[ 6LQFH WKH ZRUOG IDPRXV 0HVTXLWH 3UR5RGHR KDV RIIHUHG WKH best in profesVLRQDO UGHR LQ DLU FRQGLWLRQHG FRPIRUW (QMR\ RXWVWDQGLQJ PXVLF WKHDWHU DW WKH 0HVTXLWH $UWV &HQWHU pioneer heritage ge at the Florence Ranch Homestead and the Opal Lawrence Historical Park, and affordable auto racing at Devil’s l l’s %RZO 6SHHGZD\ 0HVTXLWH KDV JUHDW KRWHOV RYHU UHVWDXUDQWV DQG VXSHUE VKRSSLQJ &HQWUDOO\ ORFDWed along I-635,, EHWZHHQ , DQG , 0HVTXLWH LV MXVW PLQXWHV IURP /RYH )LHOG DQG 'DOODV )RUW :RUWK ,QWHUQDWLRQDO $LUSRUW
ATTRACTIONS The World Famous Mesquite ProRodeo - exciting, professional rodeo action, every Friday and Saturday evening from June through August. Enjoy the thrill of authentic, heart-stopping fun in air-conditioned comfort, along with cowboy autographs, pony rides, a petting zoo and free face-painting for FKLOGUHQ 5RGHR 'ULYH 0HVTXLWH 7H[DV ZZZ 0HVTXLWH5RGHR FRP Resistol Arena - Year-round venue for fabulous concerts, some following a rodeo performance, and thrilling sports HYHQWV 5RGHR 'ULYH 0HVTXLWH 7H[DV 972-285-8777 www.ResistolArena.com Florence Ranch Homestead - Experience pioneer life with a tour of this rustic ranch home. Originally built in 1871-72. %DUQHV %ULGJH 5RDG 0HVTXLWH 7; ZZZ +LVWRULF0HVTXLWH RUJ Opal Lawrence Historical Park - Built in 1876, a splendid examSOH RI 7H[DV SUDLULH YHUQDFXODU VW\OLQJ 8QLTXH H[DPSOH RI HDUO\ IDUP OLIH LQ 0HVTXLWH ( .HDUQH\ 6W 0HVTXLWH 7; 972-216-6468 “The Rows of Texasâ€? - Texas-style shopping, dining and entertainment district. Anchored by Town East Mall, a regional shopping mall with 200 specialty and department stores, district has RYHU UHVWDXUDQWV 3 2 %R[ 0HVTXLWH 7H[DV 972-216-6293 www.TheRowsOfTexas.com Rodeo City Music Hall - Branson Style entertainment in Historic 0HVTXLWH IHDWXULQJ WUDGLWLRQDO DQG WRS FRXQWU\ DQG JRVpel music in an intimate theater setting. 214 West Davis Street 0HVTXLWH 7; 972-285-9343 www.RodeoCityMusicHall.com Mesquite Arts Center - From theater to symphony and art H[KLELWV FRPH H[SHULHQFH 0HVTXLWH Ă DYRUHG FXOWXUH )UHH outdoor jazz concerts in June! 1527 North Galloway Avenue 0HVTXLWH 7; ZZZ 0HVTXLWH$UWV&HQWHU RUJ Devils Bowl Speedway - Short-track racing on half-mile dirt track, from March through October. Up-close and affordDEOH IHDWXUHV Ă€YH GLIIHUHQW FODVVHV RI UDFH FDUV /DZVRQ 5RDG 0HVTXLWH 7; 972-222-2421 www.DevilsBowl.com
GROUP DINING 0HVTXLWH KDV D YDVW DUUD\ RI GLQLQJ FKRLFHV IURP VHDIRRG WR steak and barbecue to hamburgers!
CONTACT Mesquite Convention and Visitors Bureau 757 North Galloway Ave., Texas 75149 Judy Skowron, Director 800-541-2355 or 972-204-4928 www.RealTexasFlavor.com
Family-owned Martinez Mexican Restaurant has all of your 7H[ 0H[ IDYRULWHV <RX¡OO ÀQG HYHU\WKLQJ IURP SL]]D WR EXUJers to entrees in a casual, upscale setting at BJ’s Restaurant, located at Town East Mall. And barbecue fans shouldn’t miss Spring Creek Barbecue for a smoky treat!
LODGING 0HVTXLWH KDV RYHU VOHHSLQJ URRPV DW KRWHOV DQG many offer a complimentary breakfast, along with free moWRUFRDFK SDUNLQJ DQG RWKHU EHQHÀWV IRU JURXSV &RQWDFW WKH 0HVTXLWH &RQYHQWLRQ DQG 9LVLWRUV %XUHDX WR VHOHFW WKH EHVW property for your group’s needs.
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES Our friendly and professional staff will help customize and SODQ \RXU LWLQHUDU\ WR ÀW \RXU JURXS¡V QHHGV :H RIIHU VLWH LQspections, fam tours, complimentary meet and greet, and complimentary welcome packets, with complimentary gift item, for motorcoaches. All of our hotels offer complimentary motorcoach parking and most offer a complimentary breakfast as well. Let us assist you in developing a tour celebrating WKH 5HDO 7H[DV )ODYRU \RX¡OO ÀQG LQ 0HVTXLWH
SUGGESTED ITINERARY Day 1: %HJLQ WKH GD\ LQ KLVWRULF 0HVTXLWH ZLWK D GRFHQW JXLGHG tour of the pioneer Florence Ranch Homestead and the Opal Lawrence Historical Park, with its rare painted ceilings. Enjoy OXQFK DW RQH RI 0HVTXLWH¡V PDQ\ UHVWDXUDQWV WKHQ VKRS ÂśWLO \RX drop at Bass Pro Shops and Town East Mall. Freshen up at the hotel, then experience the wild west action of the world-famous 0HVTXLWH 3UR5RGHR QRPLQHH IRU ´5RGHR RI WKH <HDU Âľ ZLWK its new jumbo video screens and laser show. Day 2: This morning after a hearty fast-start breakfast at your MesTXLWH KRWHO GHSDUW IRU D WRXU RI ´%LJ ' Âľ ([SHULHQFH WKH 6L[WK )ORRU 0XVHXP 'DOODV :RUOG $TXDULXP 3LRQHHU 3OD]D 'DOODV )DUPHUV Market and Dallas Heritage Village! If art is more your group’s fancy, tour the Dallas Museum of Art, Nasher Sculpture Center, Trammell Crow Collection, and tour Dallas’ latest two additions to its cultural arts district, its world-class Center for the Performing Arts, featuring the Wyly Theatre and Winspear Opera House. Then, enjoy lunch in the West End Entertainment District. 5HWXUQ WR 0HVTXLWH IRU D TXLFN UHVW EHIRUH HQMR\LQJ GLQQHU DW 0HVTXLWH¡V 5HVWDXUDQW 5RZ IROORZHG E\ D WRH WDSSLQJ KDQG FODSping, Branson-style musical performance at Rodeo City Music Hall, featuring gospel and country show. Day 3: Experience the “Cowboys and Cultureâ€? of Fort Worth! Tour and stroll the Fort Worth Stockyards National Historic District, see a Longhorn Cattle Drive, visit the Texas Cowboy Hall of Fame DQG YLHZ WKH 6WHUTXHOO :DJRQ &ROOHFWLRQ $IWHU OXQFK H[SHULence the National Cowgirl Hall of Fame, the Amon Carter Museum, Kimbell Art Museum, or the Fort Worth Botanic Garden.
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Take your group tours on a tour of Texas during the Hwy 80 Sale 3rd weekend of April and October www.Hwy80Sale.net
For a Destination with
Real Texas Flavor It’s Tough to Beat Mesquite!
Located less than 15 minutes from downtown Dallas, Mesquite provides great attractions and value! Mesquite ProRodeo Mesquite Arts Center Rodeo City Music Hall Devil’s Bowl Speedway Florence Ranch Homestead Shopping at The Rows of Texas and Town East Mall Real. Texas. Festival. April 27-28, 2012 Plus, more than 100 restaurants and 20 hotels.
Convenient C onveniientt and and d easy to find, find, d jjust ust 15 15 mi minutes inutes east off Dallas Dallla llas s 800-541-2355 800 00-541-23 2355 s realtexasflavor.com/etta
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Paris
Did you know?
Paul Harvey once described Paris as a city â€œâ€Śwhere tomorrow fell in love with yesterday, and side by side, they lived happily ever after.â€? This enchanting gateway to Texas is graced by many beautiful homes and XQLTXH architecture, creating a charming back drop for a thriving economy and contemporary lifestyle. Cultural events and historic, scenic, and recreational sites continually entertain and delight residents and visitors. Major highways will lead you to “the second largest Paris in the world.â€? Graced with crape myrtles, art, music, community theatre, recreation, festivals, and more‌Paris, Texas invites you to experience the true Texas lifestyle.
ATTRACTIONS Eiffel Tower - This famous Paris landmark stands 65 feet tall, is “Texanizedâ€? with a cowboy hat, and is a popular point of interest for visitors and sight seers. South Collegiate and Jefferson Rd., Paris, TX 903-739-9912 Downtown Paris - 7KLV LV D PXVW VHH GHVWLQDWLRQ Ă€OOHG ZLWK shops, galleries, restaurants, and a majestic fountain marking the center. Explore the beautiful, historic, Downtown Paris, Texas. Trail de Paris <RX¡OO Ă€QG VHUHQLW\ RQ WKLV WUDLO ZKLFK FXWV D recreational ribbon under a beautiful canopy of trees, and serves as a pleasant place to run, walk or bike. 903-517-9778 www.TrailDeParis.org Sam Bell Maxey House - This 1868 High Victorian-Italianate residence was home to former Confederate general, and later U.S. senator, Samuel Bell Maxey. Enjoy its lovely grounds, impressive architecture, and welcoming hosts. 903-785-5716 www.VisitSamBellMaxeyHouse.com Paris Community Theatre - Provide eight productions a year encompassing comedies, dramas, mysteries, and musicals. Performances are held in the restored Plaza Theatre located RQ WKH GRZQWRZQ VTXDUH 903-784-0259 www.ParisTheatreOnline.com Pat Mayse Lake - 6,000 acres offers room for sporting activities, KXQWLQJ DQG Ă€VKLQJ
GROUP DINING We encourage you to try some of our enjoyable local restaurants. Places such as Skinny Grill, Paris Golf and Country Club, Scholls BBQ, and Crawford’s Hole in the Wall are fantastic places to host a catered meal. Also try Fish Fry, Magel’s Grill, Jaxx Burgers, Ta Molly’s, Paris Bakery, and Capizzi’s.
LODGING Paris lends itself plentifully for all your accommodation needs. s Choose from: America’s Best Value Inn, Blossom Country Cottage, Budget Inn, Comfort Inn & Suites, Days Inn, Hampton Inn, Holiday Inn Express, Kings Inn, La Quinta Inn & Suites, Paris Extended Stay Suites, Quality Inn Motel, Ramada, Old Magnolia House Bed & Breakfast and Victorian Inn. No matter where you stay, you are sure to have a pleasurable time while in Paris.
TRANSPORTATION Renting limos, taxis, and vans is always an option, but most exFOXVLYHO\ LV RXU UHFHQWO\ DFTXLUHG 7UROOH\ GH 3DULV (QMR\ WRXUV RU HYHQ MXVW D TXLFN ULGH RQ WKH SDVVHQJHU IRRW WUROOH\ WKDW transports visitors to points of interest throughout Paris.
Must See!
The Eiffel Tower
This Eiffel Tower, standing 65 feet tall, represents a remarkable community effort. It was constructed by the Boiler Makers Local #902 utilizing materials, plant space, and employee time donated by the Babcock & Wilcox Company. It was “Texanized� with a cowboy hat in 1998. Corner of Jefferson Rd and South Collegiate Drive, next to Love Civic Center.
1/8
CONTACT Paris Visitors Convention Council 8 West Plaza in Historic Downtown, Paris, Texas 75460 1-800-ParisTx or 1-800-727-4789 Visit us at www.ParisTexas.com
21
Did you know?
Sherman
%LJ FLW\ VRSKLVWLFDWLRQ DQG D FRXQWU\ VWDWH RI PLQG 6KHUPDQ¡V XQLTXH FRPELQDWLRQ RI XUEDQ DPHQLWLHV DQG leisurely pace of life make it an ideal destination. It’s just one hour north of downtown Dallas, which makes it close enough to get here, yet far enough to get away, spend the night, and enjoy the good life Lone-Star style! The cultural e arts a thrive here, including our symphony and theater performances. That’s complemented by excellent outdoor sports, UHFUHDWLRQ HYHQWV DQG YHQXHV LQFOXGLQJ /DNH 7H[RPD DQG +DJHUPDQ 1DWLRQDO :LOGOLIH 5HIXJH <RX¡OO ÀQG FODVVLF Southern tradition mixed with progressive attractions and entertainment. Sherman Symphony Orchestra & Community Series – Performances Sept.-May; Only orchestra between Dallas and Oklahoma City. Series features internationally known groups. 903-813-2251 www.CommunitySeries.com www.ShermanSymphony.com
GROUP DINING From familiar, favorite chain restaurants to a number of local GLQHUV \RX ÀQG D WDVWH \RX ORYH LQ 6KHUPDQ )RU JURXS GLQLQJ recommendations, contact the Tourism Department.
SHOPPING Midway Mall- 4800 Texoma Parkway. 903-892-1188
www.Simon.com
Town Center- Big-box retail, movie theater, and restaurantsUS 75 Northwest of Hwy. 82. Antique Shops- LQFOXGLQJ 7RXFK RI &ODVV $QWLTXH 0DOO W. Lamar, Shopsof South Travis, and many more are located throughout Sherman. Downtown Square- including Bella Fontana Spa and specialty shops.
LODGING
ATTRACTIONS Sherman Museum - Located in the old Sherman Library, built by Carnegie Foundation in 1914, housing over 50,000 objects. Open from 10AM - 4PM Tues.-Sat., No fee charged, but donations are appreciated. 903-893-7623 www.TheShermanMuseum.org Sherman Jazz Museum – Open Saturdays, 1-5 p.m., in former Mason Lodge built in 1924. Memorabilia features the fantastic collection of the Maynard Ferguson estate. 201 East Lamar, 75090 www.ShermanJazzMuseum.com Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge - Lies on the Big Mineral $UP RI /DNH 7H[RPD +LNLQJ ELUGLQJ ÀVKLQJ UHFUHDWLRQ guided tours, and free programs. 903-786-2826 www.FriendsOfHagerman.com Kelly Square - A multi-level experience in historically restored EXLOGLQJ )HDWXUHV ERXWLTXHV DQWLTXHV DQG WZR UHVWDXUDQWV 115 South Travis Street, ZZZ .HOO\6TXDUH6KHUPDQ FRP Lake Texoma -90,000 acres of water draws over 10,000,000 visitors annually. All types of water sports, camping, hunting and ÀQHVW VWULSHU FUDSSLH DQG EODFN EDVV ÀVKLQJ LQ WKH FRXQWU\
22
Comfort Suites - 2900 N. US Hwy 75, 903-893-0499 Crossroads Inn - 2424 Texoma Pkwy, 903-893-0184 Days Inn - 3605 Hwy 75 S., 903-868-0555 Economy Inn - 1530 Texoma Pkwy, 903-893-7666 Executive Inn - 2105 Texoma Pkwy, 903-892-2161 Hampton Inn - 2904 Michelle Drive, 903-893-9333 LaQuinta Inn - 2912 N. US Highway 75, 903-893-1556 Super 8 - 111 E. FM 1417, 903-868-9325 Travelers Inn - 401 S. Sam Rayburn Frwy., 903-893-6581
TRANSPORTATION Airlines: DFW Airport-90 miles; Dallas/Love Field Airport-65 miles; North Texas Regional Airport-10 miles (charter service available) Bus Lines: Greyhound - 903-892-3131 Taxi: Sherman Taxicab - 903-892-1544 Public Transportation: TAPS - 903-868-2695 Rental Cars: Enterprise Rent-A-Car - 903-870-0041 Charter Tours: Texoma Tours - 903-465-8450
CONTACT Sherman Department of Tourism P.O. Box 1106 Sherman, Texas 75091 903-957-0310 or 888-893-1188 info@shermantx.org www.ShermanTx.org
Did you know?
Terrell
7HUUHOO RULJLQDWHG DV RQH RI WKH ´GHSRW WRZQVÂľ EXLOW DV WKH 7H[DV DQG 3DFLĂ€F 5DLOURDG &RPSDQ\ EHJDQ the construction of a new transcontinental railroad going from Longview in Eastern Texas to California. Today Terrell is considered “The City of Tomorrow With the Charm of Yesterday.â€?
ATTRACTIONS The Terrell Heritage Museum -located in the Carnegie Library building, was founded by and is a major project of the Terrell Heritage Society. Hours of operation, Sat. & Sun., 1-4, tours available, other days by appointment. The museum collects, preserves and displays artifacts and memorabilia pertaining to the history and the cultural heritage of the City of Terrell, the area and its people. 207 N. Frances 972-524-6082 www.TerrellHeritageMuseum.org No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum -commemorates the joint effort between the citizens of Texas, the British and the American governments in training more than 2,200 British and American pilots in Terrell during World War II. Museum hours are Wed., Fri., Sat. 10AM-4PM. 972-524-1714 www.BFTSMuseum.org Historic R.A. Terrell Homeplace 7KLV KRPH ZDV RQH RI WKH ÀUVW dwellings erected in Terrell. Today, it remains as one of the twenty surviving Round Houses in the entire nation and was listed by the Dallas Centennial as a place to visit of interest while you are in Terrell. 972-524-3341 Rocking L Guest Ranch - The Rocking L Guest Ranch provides an authentic western town atmosphere on 75 private acres for company events, receptions, family reunions, private parties or personal getaways. 240 VZ CR 3837, Wills Point, TX 75169 903-560-0246 www.RockingLRanch.com
A city rich in history Special Group Tours through the historic district, museums, outlet stores, ranches and manufacturing facilities can be arranged by contacting the
Terrell Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau
1-877-TERRELL
GROUP DINING :LWK PDQ\ SRSXODU UHVWDXUDQWV \RX¡UH VXUH WR ÀQG RQH WKDW ZLOO satisfy any taste. For a list of restaurants that can handle large groups call the Terrell Chamber of Commerce, Convention & Visitors Bureau.
SHOPPING Historic Downtown Shopping, $QWLTXH 0DOOV 5XVVHOO 6WRYHU Candies Outlet, Tanger Outlet Center. Tanger Outlet Center - Every day is sale day at more than 40 stores. 301 Tanger Drive Terrell, TX 75160. Hours: Monday – Saturday, 9 a.m.. - 9 p.m., Sunday, noon - 6 p.m. 972-524-6034 www.TangerOutlet.com
Visitors are invited to travel back in time on a Historical Tour of Terrell. The tour is conducted by “Miss Emily Terrellâ€? and “Col. E.H.R. Greenâ€?, guides from the Terrell Heritage Society. Dressed in period costume, they lead visitors on an extended shuttle bus tour of sites in the Historical District. The Heritage Museum and some of the city’s beautiful old homes and vintage buildings are suggested stops for the customized tour. 7KHVH VSHFLDO WRXUV E\ UHVHUYDWLRQ RQO\ DUH WDLORUHG WR Ă€W WKH interests of each tour group (minimum 10 people). The Terrell Heritage Society also hosts an annual Christmas WRXU RQ WKH Ă€UVW 6DWXUGD\ LQ 'HFHPEHU $ ´&KULVWPDV 9LFWRULDQ Teaâ€? and stops at two historic homes are included.
LODGING More than 350 guest rooms in nine motels welcome visitors for a comfortable stay in the city. Contact the Terrell Chamber of Commerce, Convention & Visitors Bureau.
CONTACT Terrell Chamber of Commerce Convention & Visitors Bureau
Contact the Terrell Heritage Society at 972-524-6082 for tour information
1314 W. Moore Avenue Terrell, Texas 75160 1-877-TERRELL www.TerrellTexas.com
23
Did you know?
Waxahachie
Waxahachie is a community that takes great pride in its rich heritage, which is evident by the historically preserved buildings and homes throughout the city. Though modern, progressive, and thriving, the city’s pulse resonates with the history of Texas. Strolling through Historic Downtown anchored by the state’s “Most Photographed Courthouse,â€? you can still see remnants of the Shawnee Trail that once served as the major thoroughfare in the state’s early development. Come and discover for yourself what makes Waxahachie “Picture Perfect.â€? thoro o $W WKH HQG RI WKH GD\ GRQ¡W EH VXUSULVHG LI \RX Ă€QG \RXUVHOI ZDQWLQJ WR EH SDUW RI WKH SLFWXUH Getzendaner Memorial Park - is a peaceful setting for your next family picnic or to use an escape to nature after a hectic EXVLQHVV PHHWLQJ 7KH &KDXWDXTXD $XGLWRULXP LV DOVR SDUW RI the grounds. Located 2 blocks south of Business 287 (W. Main Street) and Grand Avenue. Lake Waxahachie - is located 2 miles south of Waxahachie off FM %ULQJ \RXU IDPLO\ ERDW DQG MHW VNLV ([FHOOHQW VRXUFH RI Ă€VKLQJ IRU FUDSSLH ZKLWH EDVV ODUJHPRXWK EDVV DQG FKDQQHO FDWĂ€VK The Texas Theater - Built in 1895, is one of Waxahachie’s original theaters. Located in the Historic Downtown Districtat 110 W. Main. 972-937-1993 www.TexasMusicTheater.com The Waxahachie Creek Hike and Bike Trail - winds its way through the southern part of Waxahachie following the twisting and turning creek. The trail, which is four miles long, starts at Getzendaner Park, crosses Rogers Street downtown and ends DW /LRQV 3DUN $ORQJ WKH ZD\ \RX ZLOO VHH WKH &KDXWDXTXD Auditorium, historic Waxahachie City Cemetery, restored train depots and the natural beauty of the Blackland Prairie.
LODGING
ATTRACTIONS Chautauqua Auditorium - Located in Getzendaner Park, is one of the few octagonal auditoriums in America. The &KDXWDXTXD LV RSHQ GXULQJ VSHFLDO HYHQWV DQG GXULQJ WKH Gingerbread Trail. ZZZ :D[DKDFKLH&KDXWDXTXD RUJ Ellis County Courthouse - built in 1895, is listed in the top 100 most photographed structures in the state of Texas, featuring 5LFKDUGVRQ 5RPDQHVTXH DUFKLWHFWXUDO VW\OH 2SHQ 0RQGD\ Friday, 8 am - 5 pm. 972-825-5000 www.Waxahachie.com
The city of Waxahachie is home to hotels for the business executive traveler as well as year-round vacation get-away comfort suites IRU IDPLOLHV 7KHUH¡V FRPIRUWDEOH ORGJLQJ LQ WRZQ WR ÀW HYHU\ WUDYHOHU¡V UHTXLUHPHQWV DQG SRFNHWERRN :D[DKDFKLH WUXO\ offers guests a wide variety of nationally-branded facilities within WKH FLW\ 9LVLWRUV ÀQG :D[DKDFKLH FRQYHQLHQW IRU FRQYHQWLRQV business meetings, vacations and shopping excursions from any direction. With such a wide choice of accommodations — from the hotels to budget-minded motels, from friendly comfort suites to a Texas bed and breakfast — there’s a restful place to please any traveler within the city.
GROUP DINING The down home feeling of Waxahachie is no more evident anywhere than in our restaurants that welcome you with warmth and style. Whether it is breakfast, lunch, dinner or a shoppingspree snack, dining in Waxahachie is sure to satisfy. A variety of family friendly restaurants line the streets of Waxahachie.
TRANSPORTATION The historic downtown area in Waxahachie is fairly compact. It’s a couple miles wide by a couple miles long, and it is possible to get around on foot to see what you need to see. Get ready to do some walking, however. There’s a ton to see! Foot. Car. Taxi. Tour.
CONTACT Waxahachie Convention & Visitors Bureau Texas Theater circa 1915 & today.
24
2000 Civic Center Lane * Waxahachie, Texas 75165 972-938-3434 Fax: 972-923-1085 www.Waxahachie.com
Texas Hill Country 1
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A
Goldthwaite
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San Saba
Melvin
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Brady
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Burnet
Cleo
Sonora
Georgetown Junction
E
Fredericksburg
Johnson City
Austin
Kerrville Rocksprings
Buda
Comfort
F Carta Valley
Round Rock 35
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Taylor
Cedar Park
Leakey
Kyle
Boerne
G Concan Brackettville
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Sabinal
Hondo
Uvalde
State Park Rest Areas Attraction
MEXICO
Must See
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Spotlight Cities BUDA (F9) Just 20 minutes south of Austin, off the beaten path, lies Buda, Texas – a friendly city with small town charm and big plans for the future that DUH HTXDO SDUWV SUDJPDWLF DQG LG\OOLF %XGD holds fast to the values and rich potential that PDGH LW D FKRLFH ORFDWLRQ IRU WKH ÀUVW VHWWOHUV RI WKH V 7KH VDPH TXDOLWLHV WKDW PDGH WKH city attractive in the past hold true today. City of Buda 121 Main Street, Buda TX. 78610 512-312-0084 www.DiscoverBuda.com
GEORGETOWN (D9) Palace Theatre, Inner Space Cavern, Williamson Courthouse, Williamson Museum, Historic Downtown, Lake Georgetown, Georgetown Winery. Georgetown Convention & Visitors Bureau 101 W. 7th St., Georgetown, Texas 78626 800-436-8696 cvb@georgetown.org visit.georgetown.org
Put your feet up, and %UHDWKH (DV\ +HUH www.discoverbuda.com :: 512-312-0084
You don’t want to miss this big event in April. It’s a two day country fair centered around weiner races. Complete with parade, dog customes, and well you guessed it... hot dogs.
Deciding on a Destination Great ideas can come from anywhere and everyone; guide books, internet, friends, WUDYHO YLGHRV WRXULVW RIÂżFHV WUDYHO agents, you name it. We recommend using our site www.EastTexasGuide.com for plenty of free information on location in Texas and Louisiana.
Planning the Trip The Weiner Dog Capital of Texas
Just 20 minutes south of Austin, off the beaten path, lies Buda, Texas — a friendly city with small town charm and big plans for the future‌
Planners Tip:
Begin six months before your planned trip. Visit the sources you used when deciding where to go frequently. Look for information such as history, culture, architecture, foods, geography, key points of interest, shopping, transportation, etc. Obtain maps, brochures, and costs for your itinerary. Contact Chambers, CVB’s, tourist information centers for maps and other helpful publications. Contact information can be found within this book.
25
Georgetown
Did you know?
In addition to being well known as having one of the best preserved and active historic downtowns in Texas, Georgetown is considered to be one of the best go to cities in the nation due to its fairly warm climate year round, close proximity to both the countryside and Austin.
ATTRACTIONS Palace Theatre - In the historic downtown district. Year-round season of live theater productions including musicals, comedies, and dramas. Former movie house. 512-869-7469 www.GeorgetownPalace.com Inner Space Cavern - A living cave for over 80,000 years with formations that continue to develop and take shape. Spectacular displays of “Soda Strawsâ€? and beautiful “Ivory Fallsâ€? formations. 1 mile south of downtown Georgetown. 512-931-CAVE http://myinnerspacecavern.com Williamson County Courthouse - Award-winning newly restored 1910 Courthouse. Guided tours are available every Friday and Saturday at 1:30 p.m., 2:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. If possible, please schedule tours two weeks in advance. 716 South Austin Avenue. 512-943-1670 www.WilliamsonMuseum.org Williamson Museum - The museum provides free educational programming, exhibits and events to the public including the Up the Chisholm Trail cattle drive and chuck wagon cook-off each September. 716 South Austin Avenue. 512-943-1670 www.WilliamsonMuseum.org Historic Downtown - %RDVWV VRPH RI WKH Ă€QHVW 9LFWRULDQ DUFKLWHFWXUH LQ WKH VWDWH RI 7H[DV 8QLTXH VKRSSLQJ DQG delicious dining. For guided tours, please call the Georgetown Convention and Visitors Bureau. 800-436-8696 http://visit.georgetown.org/historic-downtown/ Lake Georgetown - For the more serious angler or water HQWKXVLDVW WKLV DFUH ODNH RIIHUV ERDWLQJ VNLLQJ Ă€VKLQJ four separate camping areas, a wildlife preserve and 16 miles of hiking trails. Off Williams Drive/Andice Rd. 512-930-5253 www.swf-wc.usace.army.mil/Georgetown/ Georgetown Winery - Award-winning wines. Make your own personal batch of wine. Large selection of wine gifts. 715 South Main Street. 512-869-8600 www.GeorgetownWinery.com
LODGING Georgetown features economical accommodations that serve the needs of visitors, business clients, or tour groups. Quality brands include Comfort Suites, Quality Inn, LaQuinta Inn and Suites, and Georgetown Inn. Special group rates are available.
CONTACT Georgetown Convention & Visitors Bureau 101 W. 7th St., Georgetown, Texas 78626 800-436-8696 cvb@georgetown.org www.visit.georgetown.org
26
When planning your tour, don’t forget: Up the Chisholm Trail Cattle Drive & Chuckwagon Cook-off Every September. Join us as we celebrate Georgetown’s location on the historic Chisholm Trail. Watch chuckwagon teams compete and see an authentic longhorn cattle drive in San Gabriel Park. Including live cowboy music, a western art show, western demonstrators, chuckwagons, a kids’ chuckwagon cook-off, historical trail drive re-enactors, and a ranch rodeo! For more information visit www.upthechisholmtrail.org Christmas Stroll - Featuring our Bethlehem Village Held yearly every December ,W¡V D :RQGHUIXO /LIH LQ GRZQWRZQ *HRUJHWRZQ WKH ÀUVW 6DWXUGD\ LQ 'Hcember. Enjoy live entertainment, sample tempting treats, and browse more than 165 arts and crafts booths! Our walk-through Bethlehem Village will take you back to a time long before colored lights, reindeer, or Santa Claus. Experience this village as it really was. Come to BethleKHP DQG VHH IRU \RXUVHOI WKH PDJLF DQG ZRQGHU RI WKH ÀUVW &KULVWPDV Red Poppy Festival Yearly celebration every April The Red Poppy Festival marks the coming of spring and the arrival of Georgetown’s colorful springtime visitor, the Red Poppy Flower. -RLQ XV IRU RYHU XQLTXH KDQG FUDIW YHQGRUV D IDEXORXV IUHH children’s area, a car show, parade, outstanding live music and a Saturday night concert and street dance! For more information visit www.redpoppyfestival.com
South Texas Plains Region Map 1
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5
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7
8
9 Giddings
Kerrville
A
Comfort
La Grange
Lockhart Boerne Carta valley
B
Leon Valley
Quemado
35
Eagle Pass
Devine
Wharton
Floresville
Cuero
Lindenau
Lake Ja
Moore
La Pryor
Crystal City
Edna
Karnes City
Palacios
Goliad
Dilley
Matag
Whitsett Tuleta
Asherton
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Kingston
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Hallettsville
El Campo
Carrizo Springs
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Yoakum
Pearsall
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San Antonio
Hondo
Uvalde
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Seguin
Sabinal
Brackettville
Tom
Sealy Columbus
Flatonia
New Braunfels
Del Rio
Hempstead Bellville
San Marcos
Leakey
Concan
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Rocksprings
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Zapata
Armstrong
MEXICO
State Park
Rudolph
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Must See
Rio Grande City McAllen
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Attraction
Harlingen San Benito
Spotlight Cities GONZALES (C7) Gonzales is one of the most historic towns in TexDV DQG ZKHUH WKH ÀUVW VKRW ZDV ÀUHG LQ WKH EDWWOH for Texas independence! Whether you are here to follow the Independence Trail, visit our hisWRULF VLWHV VHH WKH ZLOGà RZHUV VKRS IRU DQWLTXHV or collectibles or try our famous barbecue, we invite you to stop by and pick up information on all the sights to see here! Gonzales Chamber of Commerce 414 St. Lawrence Street, Conzales, Texas 78629 - 888-672-1095 info@GonzalesTexas.com www.GonzalesTexas.com
27
Gonzles
Did you know?
*RQ]DOHV LV WKH RQO\ FLW\ LQ 7H[DV WKDW UHWDLQV LWV RULJLQDO 0H[LFDQ VXUYH\ ZLWK VHYHQ SXEOLF VTXDUHV LQ WKH VKDSH of a cross. Streets in the 49-block historic district are named for saints and there are over 80 historical sites, KRPHV DQG EXLOGLQJV LQ WRZQ 0DQ\ DUH EXLOW DURXQG WKH VTXDUHV DQG WUHH OLQHG DYHQXHV 'ULYLQJ DQG ZDONLQJ tours showcase the historic structures and homes built by cattle baron, lawyers, and bankers after the Civil War. 6RPH RI WKHVH KLVWRULF KRPHV DUH RSHQ IRU WRXUV RQ WKH ÀUVW ZHHNHQG LQ 'HFHPEHU GXULQJ :LQWHUIHVW
ATTRACTIONS Memorial Museum- A 1936 Centennial Memorial, built to commemorate “The Immortal 32â€? who walked from Gonzales to MRLQ WKH Ă€JKWLQJ DW WKH $ODPR 7KH &RPH 7DNH ,W &DQQRQ ZKLFK Ă€UHG WKH Ă€UVW VKRW IRU 7H[DV ,QGHSHQGHQFH RQ 2FWREHU 2, 1835, is located there, along with collections and memorabilia of the founders of Gonzales. Old Jail Museum- Built in 1887; the jail closed in 1975, and now houses the Gonzales County museum of law & order and transportation, and Gonzales Chamber of Commerce RIĂ€FHV 9LVLWRUV FDQ WRXU WKH UHEXLOW JDOORZV WKH RULJLQDO FHOOV GHDWK FHOOV VKHULII¡V TXDUWHUV DQG MDLOHU¡V EHGURRP 7KH WKUHH story building was built to hold 200 under riot conditions. J.B. Wells House Museum- Daughters of the Republic of Texas property, 15-room house built in 1885 of Florida long-leaf pine, shipped through Indianola and brought to Gonzales E\ R[ FDUW %XLOW ZLWK Ă€UH HVFDSHV OLJKWQLQJ URGV DQG LQGRRU SOXPELQJ LW ZDV FRQVLGHUHG TXLWH ´XS WR GDWHÂľ 7KH ZDOOSDper is original and pieces of furniture and mantels were handmade by J.B. Wells Jr. Gonzales Pioneer Village Living History Center- Perhaps the most extensive collection of 19th century buildings; including Hamon Church, early settlers’ cabins, museum, school, working broom factory, and blacksmith shop. The Village offers demonstrations and battle re-enactments throughout the year, along with personalized and school tours. Stars in the Village during the Christmas season, is the 1st two weekends in December. The Eggleston House- This dog-run style cabin was built after the Texas Revolution and Runaway Scrape, circa 1845, by Horace Eggleston. Located just east of the Memorial Museum, you can see period furniture portraying life in early Gonzales, while listening to a narration of the history. Texas Jr. High and High School Rodeo Museum & State Association of Texas Pioneers Museum- In the Historic Riverside Community Center, built in 1922, facility features two separate museums- One honors the Jr. High and High School Rodeos of the past with pictures, buckles, saddles, and back-tags. The other is home to extensive personal collections of Texas Pioneers, offering a glimpse of life from Texans of the past.
SHOPPING *RQ]DOHV KDV D QXPEHU RI XQLTXH VKRSV LQFOXGLQJ IDPRXV ´'LVFRYHU\ $QWLTXHV¾ VSHFLDOL]LQJ LQ HYHU\WKLQJ RQH ZRXOG need to restore a historic building. A historic home has highHQG DQWLTXHV DQG D VSHFLDOW\ &KULVWPDV VKRS 6SHFLDOW\ VKRSV
28
Before you visit the Alamo... “Come and Take It� Come and take a look at the place where it all began.....
Pioneer Village
Gonzales, Texas
J. B. Wells House Gonzales Memorial Museum First Shot Cook-Off & Tractor Pull September 14-16
Come & Take It Festival First Weekend in October Downtown Gonzales. No grounds fee.
Winterfest First Weekend in December Stars in the Village & Historic Homes Tour
'PS NPSF JOGPSNBUJPO DBMM t www.gonzalestexas.com DQG ERXWLTXHV DERXQG ZKHUH RQH FDQ ÀQG DUWV FUDIWV IUDPLQJ DQWLTXHV NLWFKHQ JDGJHWV JRXUPHW IRRG LWHPV jewelry, gifts items, souvenirs & Texas items, candles, historic maps, books, clothing, furniture, and much more.
GROUP DINING There is a wide range of dining experiences to be had in Gonzales. Choose from delicious BBQ, steaks, seafood, Mexican and Chinese cuisine, pizza, fried chicken, and much more.
LODGING Gonzales has three hotel/motels and will add a new Holiday Inn Express in April 2012. These include The Best Western/Regency Inn & Suites, 830-672-5555, The Carefree Inn, 830-6729611, and The Lexington Inn, 830-672-2807.
CONTACT Gonzales Chamber of Commerce
Historic and luxurious lodging abounds with B&B’s and Cottages such as: Abracadabra Guest Cottage, 830-857-3137, Belle Oaks Inn, 830-857-8613, Cabana Guest House, 830-6725169, John Fauth Guest Cottage, 830-857-8091, Laurel Ridge Antiques & Inn, 830-672-2484, and St. James Inn, 830-6727066.
414 St. Lawrence Street, Conzales, Texas 78629 888-672-1095 info@GonzalesTexas.com www.GonzalesTexas.com
Authentic Guest Ranches are 4D Guest Ranch in Waelder, 830-540-4447, and Lazy F Guest Ranch in Smiley, 210-3916378.
Piney Woods 1
Spotlight Cities
2 Grassland
nal Refuge
HENDERSON (F4) Step back in time where history comes alive. Here \RX ZLOO ÀQG XSVFDOH VKRSSLQJ HDWHULHV VSHFLDOW\ coffee and the Rusk County Library which offers genealogy assistance. City of Henderson Tourism Department 1005 SH 64 W, Henderson, Texas 75652. Toll Free 1-866-650-5529 Ext. 224 email: tourism@hendersontx.us www.VisitHendersonTx.com HUNTSVILLE(K2) Huntsville offers visitors an array of discoveries - history, QDWXUH SURPLQHQW VWDWH LQVWLWXWLRQV DQWLTXHV DOO PL[HG with hometown hospitality. City of Huntsville Tourism Department 7600 Hwy 75 South, Huntsville, Texas 77340 936-291-9726 or 800-289-0389 www.HuntsvilleTexas.com JACKSONVILLE (F3) Jacksonville, Texas is home of World Famous Tomatoes, Prosperous Plastics Manufacturers,and a Multi-Million Dollar Bedding Plant Industry. City of Jacksonville 526 E Commerce St., Jacksonville, TX 75766 903-586-2217 or 800-376-2217 www.JacksonvilleTexas.com JEFFERSON (D4) When you visit Jefferson, you take a journey back through time to a bustling 19th century river port, an era of prosperity and wealth, of petticoats and parasols, of Southern grace and romance. City of Jefferson Tourism Department 305 E. Austin St., Jefferson, TX 903-665-3733 www.VisitJeffersonTexas.com
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Gambill Wildlife Refuge
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CONROE (L2) Plan your trip to Conroe, a beautiful collision of nature, history, the arts and recreation all nestled in the Piney Woods of East Texas, just 40 minutes north of the heart of Houston. Conroe Convention & Visitors Bureau 505 West Davis St., Conroe, Texas 77301 936-522-3500 or 877-426-6763 www.PlayInConroe.com
3
State Park
De Kalb
State Park Cooper Rest Areas Lake
s Lake ark
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Texarkana
Attraction Patman Mount WrightLake Pleasant
Must See
Atlanta Pittsburg Linden Lone Star
C Lake Tawakoni
Lake O’ The Pines
Caddo Lake
Gilmer Mineola
D
Jefferson
80
Longview
Lindale
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Marshall
80
Kilgore Tyler
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Henderson
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Conroe The Woodlands
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KILGORE (E3) .LOJUH KDV D VPDOO WRZQ DWPRVSKHUH DQG XQLTXH KLVtory that sets the stage for today’s distintive community. Kilgore Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau 813 North Kilgore St., Kilgore, TX 75662 903-984-5022 or 866-984-0400 www.VisitKilgore.com LONGVIEW (E4) Longview is full of friendly folks and is a small city that is very BIG ON SERVICE! That’s the nature of Real East Texas Living. Longview Convention and Visitors Bureau 410 N. Center Street Longview, Texas 75601 903-753-3281 www.VisitLongviewTexas.com NACOGDOCHES (H4) You may want to bring along and extra suitcase! 2QH RI WKH PRVW XQLTXH DVSHFWV RI 1DFRJGRFKHV LV the large number of locally-owned specialty and anWLTXH VWRUHV \RX¡OO ÀQG KHUH Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau 200 E. Main St. Nacogdoches, Texas 75961 888-OLDEST-TOWN (888-653-3788) www.VisitNacogdoches.org TYLER (E3) Tyler’s charming brick streets lead visitors to an arUD\ RI IDPLO\ DWWUDFWLRQV TXDLQW DQWLTXH VKRSV DQG XQLTXH VSHFLDOW\ VWRUHV Tyler Convention & Visitors Bureau 315 N. Broadway, Tyler, Texas 75702 1-800-235-5712 www.VisitTyler.com
woodlandsresort.com | 800-433-2624
Forest Oasis | Spa | Championship Golf 29
Conroe
Did you know?
&XOWXUDOO\ XQLTXH &RQURH LV D EOHQG RI QDWXUH KLVWRU\ DQG HQWHUWDLQPHQW WKDW \RX DQG \RXU IDPLO\ DUH VXUH WR HQMR\ 1HVWOHG LQ WKH TXLHW OXVK SLQH\ ZRRGV &RQURH ZLOO TXLFNO\ EHFRPH \RXU IDYRULWH YDFDWLRQ VSRW with its small town appeal amid big city attractions. We invite you to experience for yourself why Conroe is called the “Urban Jewel in the Piney Woodsâ€?. North Lake Conroe Paddling Co - 7RXULQJ Ă€VKLQJ DQG ND\DN rentals for individuals or small to medium-sized groups. Expert and beginner, it’s everything you need for a fun day at the lake. Ask about paddle & hike and paddle & pack adventures. 936-203-2397 www.nlcpc.com W. Goodrich Jones Forest – Clusters of endangered 5HG &RFNDGHG :RRGSHFNHUV Ă€QG VDQFWXDU\ LQ wooded acres southwest of Conroe. The Texas Forest Service continues to develop ways to better preserve the natural environment by utilizing W. Goodrich Jones State Forest as a “demonstration forest.â€? Sweetleaf 1DWXUH 7UDLO SLFQLF WDEOHV KRUVHEDFN ULGLQJ DQG Ă€VKLQJ 936-273-2261 Saint Francis Wolf Sanctuary – Captive born wolves and wolfdogs are able to live out the rest of their natural lives safely and comfortably at this Montgomery sanctuary that provides loving care and attention. Wolves in the wild are extinct in Texas. Tours by appointment. Located in Montgomery. 936-597-WOLF www.WolvesOfSaintFrancis.org
GROUP DINING Chocolate Passion 936-539-6585 Offering delicious hand-made chocolates made IURP DXWKHQWLF 9HQH]XHOD FDFDR WKH EHVW TXDOLW\ Italian & American coffees and wonderful food. 1520 N. Frazier in Conroe, TX www.ChocolatePassion.net
SHOPPING ATTRACTIONS The Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park - Celebrate Texas History at our new Lone Star Monument and Historical Flag Park, featuring a 14 ft. bronze statue of “The Texianâ€?, a common soldier who fought in the Texas Revolution of 1836 DQG WKH Ă DJV Ă RZQ DV 7H[DV ZRQ KHU LQGHSHQGHQFH www.TexasFlagPark.org 7 Acre Wood - Bring the family to play in a 7 ½ acre old-fashioned Family Entertainment Park! Visit the petting zoo, mini golf course, western play town, play fort, huge playground, gigantic sandbox, zip line, horseshoes, hay rides and much more. 936-890-2326 www.7acrewood.org
Outlets at Conroe – Home to name brand stores such as Nike &OHDUDQFH 7RPP\ +LOÀJHU 3DF6XQ 2VK.RVK %¡*RVK DQG 025( When you spend the day shopping at the outlets you will receive 30%-70% OFF everyday retail prices. Watch for the Outlets at Conroe signature events during the year where you can take part in charity fundraising, model search and Santa’s arrival. 936-756-0904 www.OutletsAtConroe.com
LODGING 15 Great hotels, representing almost every major limited service hotel chain, that are eager to work with your group to ensure a pleasant stay. Many offer complimentary breakfast with their rooms as well as other amenities that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for your next day of adventure. Contact us to secure your group rate today.
TRANSPORTATION Conroe is located 40 miles north of Houston, Texas. On I-45 at State Hwy 105. Taxi, limo and car rentals are available.
CONTACT Conroe Convention & Visitors Bureau The Lone Star Monument and Flag Park celebrates the 7H[DV 5HYROXWLRQ DQG RI WKH Ă DJV Ă RZQ DV VKH IRXJKW
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505 West Davis St., Conroe, Texas 77301 936-522-3500 or 877-426-6763 www.PlayInConroe.com
Did you know?
Henderson
Henderson LV QDPHG DIWHU WKH ÀUVW *RYHUQRU RI WKH 6WDWH -DPHV 3LFNQH\ +HQGHUVRQ &RPH VKRS LQ RXU 1DWLRQDO 5HJLVWHU 'RZQWRZQ 6TXDUH +HQGHUVRQ LV NQRZ IRU WKH PRVW SLFWXUHVTXH GRZQWRZQ LQ (DVW 7H[DV and is Texas Main Street City and a 2012 National Main Street City. Visit the Texas Historical Markers within the city and the buildings listed on the National Register.
ATTRACTIONS Depot Museum Complex - Clustered on 5 acres are 12 restored structures which include a Cotton Gin, Saw Mill and the famous Arnold Outhouse along with several other Texas Historical Markers. 514 N. High St. 903-657-4303 www.DepotMuseum.com Jordan’s Plant Farm - A must stop for all shoppers. Jordan’s IDPRXV JDUGHQ FHQWHU KDV VHDVRQDO SODQWV SOXV URRPV ÀOOHG with gifts and fascinating displays. 7523 State HWY. 42 South 800-635-1147 www.JordansPlantfarm.com Howard Dickinson House - Built in 1855. First brick home in Henderson. Operated by the Rusk County Heritage Association. Located at 501 S. Main tours by appoinment only. Contact the Henderson Area Chamber of Commerce 903-657-5528 Monte Verdi Plantation - Minutes from Henderson built in 1856. Tours by appt. 11992 CR 4233 Cushing,Tx. 75760 903-863-2633 www.MonteVerdiPlantation.com National Register Downtown District - Designated 1995. Restored buildings, many designated as a National Register building.
GROUP DINING SAL’S PIZZA CAFE & RESTAURANT 903-657-8000 Best place to eat seafood in Henderson. 214 US Highway 79 N, - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 903-392-8200 MOJOE’S Soups & sandwiches & the freshest coffe in town www.GoMojoes.com 106 West Main - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 903-657-4656 GEDDIE’S GRILL Array of buffet meals and menu meals 214 U.S. 79 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 903-657-1414 COTTON PATCH Country Style Eating. www.CottonPatch.com 420 U.S. 79
Depot Museum - clustered on 5 acres are 12 restored historic structures. Some of the stuctures include: a cotton gin, oil derULFN FDURXVHO 0LVVRXUL 3DFLÂżF &DERRVH and the famous Arnold Outhouse the fanciest 3 holer outhouse with a state marker. There are several buildings with a Texas State Marker Located at 514 N. High. 903-657-4303 www.depotmeusum.com
GROUP TOUR LODGING BAYMONT INN & SUITES – 410 Hwy 79 S. 877-229-6668 or 903-657-7900 BEST WESTERN INN – 1500 Hwy 259 S. 800-528-1234 or 903-657-9561 COMFORT INN – 905 Hwy. 79 N. 877-655-8789 or 903-657-8789 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS – 300 Kilgore Dr. 800-Holiday or 903-657-5250
The Henderson Civic Theater is located in the former Opera House which was built in 1885. It is located in the middle of the downtown National Registered Historic District at 122 E. Main Street. In 2012 the theatre will celebrate their 26th anniversary EULQJLQJ ¿QH DUWV DV LWV EHVW WR WKH FLW\ 7KH schedule includes 4 seasonal productions, a children’s production and the annual melodrama at the Heritage Syrup Festival.
CONTACT City of Henderson Tourism Department 1005 SH 64 W, Henderson, Texas 75652 Toll Free 1-866-650-5529 Ext. 224 tourism@hendersontx.us www.VisitHendersonTx.com
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Did you know?
Huntsville
Huntsville ZKHUH \RX ZLOO ÀQG WKH WDOOHVW VWDWXH RI DQ $PHULFDQ +HUR 6DP +RXVWRQ ´$ 7ULEXWH WR &RXUDJH¾ VWDQGV 77’ tall amid a majestic and serene place. Huntsville is a place to bring the whole family where you can enjoy the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, The Texas Prison Museum and the HEARTS Veterans Museum. Enjoy the beauty of outdoors DW +XQWVYLOOH 6WDWH 3DUN VWUROOLQJ RXU KLVWRULF GRZQWRZQ VTXDUH ZKLOH DQWLTXH VKRSSLQJ JROÀQJ DW 5DYHQ 1HVW and a walking tour within the cultural district. Come, stay and play...where a warm welcome awaits!
ATTRACTIONS The Sam Houston Memorial Museum which is dedicated to preserving the memory of Sam Houston and his times located on Sam Houston’s original homestead on Sam Houston State University Campus. 1402 19th St 936-294-1832 www.shsu.edu The Texas Prison Museum directed by Jim Willett, author of “Warden: Texas Prison Life and Death from the Inside Outâ€? and former Warden of the Walls Unit is home to the Texas Electric Chair, Old Sparky, and many other interesting displays from the 150 plus years of our state’s prison history. 491 SH 75 North. www.txprisonmuseum.org The HEARTS Veterans Museum honors all military groups in all :DUV RI &RQĂ LFWV DQG LV VWDIIHG ZLWK ZDU YHWHUDQV VKDULQJ WKHLU own experiences. 463 Hwy 75N 936-295-595 www.HeartsMuseum.com Historic Downtown Square ZLWK DQWLTXH VKRSSLQJ DQG XQLTXH shops and eateries. Huntsville State Park where you can enjoy camping, picnicking, QDWXUH FHQWHU ERDWLQJ Ă€VKLQJ DQG KLNLQJ 3DUN 5RDG 936-295-5644 www.tpwd.state.tx.us Cultural District by the Texas Commission on the Arts. The cultural district includes art galleries, historic homes, theater performances and cultural events.
GROUP DINING
Texas History Samuel Houston (March 2, 1793 – July 26, 1863) was a 19th century American statesman, politician, and soldier. Born in Timber Ridge, just north of Lexington in Rockbridge County, Virginia, in the Shenandoah Valley, Houston ZDV D NH\ ÀJXUH LQ WKH KLVWRU\ RI 7H[DV LQFOXGLQJ SHULRGV DV WKH ÀUVW DQG third President of the Republic of Texas, Senator for Texas after it joined the 8QLWHG 6WDWHV DQG ÀQDOO\ DV JRYHUQRU +H UHIXVHG EHFDXVH RI KLV XQLRQLVW FRQYLFWLRQV WR VZHDU OR\DOW\ WR WKH &RQIHGHUDF\ ZKHQ 7H[DV VHFHGHG IURP WKH 8QLRQ EULQJLQJ KLV JRYHUQRUVKLS WR DQ HQG 7R DYRLG EORRGVKHG KH UHfused an offer of an army to put down the rebellion, and instead retired to +XQWVYLOOH 7H[DV ZKHUH KH GLHG EHIRUH WKH HQG RI WKH &LYLO :DU
Visit the largest free-standing statue of an American Hero. 7600 Hwy 75 South, Huntsville, TX
32
Several Group dining locations are available in Huntsville that can accommodate small groups of 10-30 people and larger groups of 50-100 people. Please contact the City of Huntsville Tourism Department when scheduling your trip to Huntsville, we will be delighted to help you arrange your dining experience in Huntsville. 800-289-0389.
LODGING AMERICAN BEST VALUE 936-295-9151 BAKER MOTEL 936-295-3761 BEST WESTERN 936-295-9000 COMFORT SUITES 936-436-9600 DAYS INN 936-438-8400
ECONO LODGE 936-295-6401 GATEWAY INN 936-295-7595 HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS 936-295-4300 LA QUINTA INN 936-295-6454 MOTEL 6 936-291-6927
OAKVIEW MANOR BED & BREAKFAST 936-295-3352 SUPER 8 936-730-8888 THE WHISTLER BED & BREAKFAST 936-295-2834 UNIVERSITY HOTEL 936-291-2151
CONTACT City of Huntsville Tourism Department 7600 Hwy 75 South Huntsville, Texas 77340 936-291-9726 or 800-289-0389 www.HuntsvilleTexas.com
Jacksonville
Did you know?
Jacksonville, Texas is the Home of the World’s Largest Bowl of Salsa, making a total of 2,672 pounds of salsa. This tomato task was held during in June 2010 during the Annual Tomato Fest. Home of luscious landscape DQG DEXQGDQW VXQVKLQH SURGXFH QDWXUDO EHDXW\ DQG PDJQLÀFHQW VPLOHV
ATTRACTIONS Love’s Lookout Visitor Center One of East Texas’ most breathtaking views north of JacksonYLOOH LV D SDUW RI D ORQJ Ă DW WRSSHG KLOO WKDW H[WHQGV QRUWK DQG south about nine miles. Love’s Lookout highlights a 5,500 SF facility housing and information center, restrooms, picnic arbors and vending machines. With one of the most awesome views in the area, visitors are greeted with some of the colorful and interesting people to be found. 903-586-4868 www.JacksonvilleTexas.com Texas State Railroad The Texas State Railroad, established 1881, is truly a “Texas Treasure!â€? Take a relaxing train ride through the piney woods of East Texas, enjoy fun special events with your family, or experience an evening dinner train! This historic railroad offers steam train excursions that travel 25 miles through the scenic piney woods and hardwood creek bottoms of East Texas amidst a backdrop of rolling hills, nature and wildlife. 1-888-987-2461 www.TexasStateRR.com
SHOPPING (QMR\ VKRSSLQJ DW VSHFLDOW\ VKRSV ZKHUH \RX FDQ ÀQG WKRVH LWHPV RI XQLTXH WUHDVXUHV WKDW FDQQRW EH IRXQG DQ\ZKHUH HOVH Gourmet Gardens The year was 1990 and even with our success as fruit farmers, our season was limited to the spring and summer months. As we did in the many years before, we were going to leave the blue berries on the bushes and let the peaches hit the ground. Our season was coming to an end and as the northern fruit was just being harvested, the rules of economics were DW ZRUN $V WKH LQà X[ RI QRUWKHUQ IUXLW KLW WKH PDUNHW WKH SULFH would fall and the labor to pick the fruit was costing us more than we could ever sell the fruit for. Mrs. Bradshaw’s son was a marketing student who was learning about added value in the market place and was soon to recognize the opportunity his family had in their predicament. Before season was over Mrs. Bradshaw was using the excess fruit to make Preserves and Fruit Syrups. This was the beginning of something that was unimaginable to the family. 1-800-7552434 www.GourmetGardens.com Country Charm Candle CCC offers an exciting collection of items for the heart of your home and the spirit of your soul. Come in and browse our large selection of jewelry, clothing, candles and home decor. Open 7 days a week! Texas Basket Company
CONTACT City of Jacksonville
Texas Basket Company’s earliest baskets were made for harvesting, transporting & storing fruits and vegetables - mainly tomatoes. Prior to World War II, Jacksonville, Texas was known as “The Tomato Capital of the Worldâ€?. Jacksonville’s rich red VRLO SURGXFHV Ă DYRUIXO WRPDWRHV WKDW ZHUH KDXOHG E\ ZDJons or automobiles to a downtown area called the “Tomato Shedsâ€?. This area consisted of many open-air sheds alongside WKH 0LVVRXUL 3DFLĂ€F UDLOURDGV %DVNHWV IXOO RI WRPDWRHV ZHUH loaded on the train cars and shipped by rail across the United States. 903-586-8014 www.TexasBasket.com
LODGING Visit www.JacksonvilleTexas.com or call Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce for a complete listing of overnight accommodations. 903-586-2217 Visit one of many scenic views in Jacksonville - Love’s Lookout
526 E Commerce St Jacksonville, TX 75766 903-586-2217 or 800-376-2217 www.JacksonvilleTexas.com
33
Jefferson
Did you know?
When you visit Jefferson, you take a journey back through time to a bustling 19th century river port, an era of prosperity and wealth, of petticoats and parasols, of Southern grace and romance. Today’s Jefferson is reminiscent RI LWV KH\GD\ ZLWK DQWLTXH VKRSV OLQLQJ WKH RULJLQDO EULFN VWUHHWV KRUVH GUDZQ FDUULDJH WRXUV HYHQ D WULS RQ D VWHDP paddle boat. Scarlet O’Hardy’s Gone with the Wind Museum - This VTXDUH IRRW PXVHXP GHGLFDWHG WR *RQH :LWK WKH :LQG features one of the largest private collections of memorabilia from this epic story of the Old South. Admission is $3 for Adults, 12 and under is $1. Open Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. or by appointment. 408 Taylor 903-665-1939 www.scarlettohardy.com The Jeffersonian Institute - A modern educational venue in the Historic Riverfront District of Jefferson, Texas in walking distance from shops, over 10 restaurants and many tours. This beautiful building presents authentic architecture and design from the mid 1800s. The Institute is often used for specialized training, corporate conference, focus groups, weddings, receptions, reunions and continuing education classes. It has catering facilities, classrooms and conference rooms which can handle from 10-350 people. 903-665-2567 www.thejeffersonianinstitute.com
GROUP DINING 'LQHUV LQ WKH -HIIHUVRQ DUHD ZLOO ÀQG FXOLQDU\ GHOLJKWV UDQJLQJ IURP FDVXDO WR ÀQH GLQLQJ $ FRPSOHWH OLVW RI UHVWDXUDQWV LV available on the website. The Jefferson Visitors Center offers bus parking and easy access to downtown restaurants.
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES ATTRACTIONS Carnegie Library – Built in 1907. Great venue for weddings, meetings & family reunions. 301 W. Lafayette 903-665-8911 www.jeffersoncarnegielibrary.com Jefferson Historical Museum ² $ %DVHPHQW WZR à RRUV DQG a garret hold the large and interesting collection of the -HIIHUVRQ +LVWRULFDO 6RFLHW\ ([KLELWV LQFOXGH $UW $QWLTXLWLHV Civil War Collections, Caddo Indian Artifacts, Early Pioneers Implements, Eary Texas Textiles, Children’s Toys and Dolls, Genealogy Archives, Gift Shop and More. 223. W. Austin Street 903-665-2775 www.jeffersonmuseum.com Museum of Measurement and Time – The Museum includes an exhibit of Land Surveying, clocks and various measuring devices on display. There is no charge to visit the museum. 301 N. Polk 903-665-6668 www.museumofmeasurementandtime.org R.D. Moses Train Display – R.D. Moses private collection of 7H[DV DQG 3DFLÀF WUDLQ GLVSOD\ : $XVWLQ 903-665-2775
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The Jefferson Visitor Center provides tourists with information regarding Jefferson’s vast array of restaurants, events, attractions and merchants. The center is also available yearround for parties, events, weddings and meetings.
LODGING EXCELSIOR HOUSE HOTEL 211 W. AUSTIN 903-665-2513
HISTORIC JEFFERSON HOTEL 124 W. AUSTIN ST. 903-665-2631/866-334-6835
EXECUTIVE INN & SUITES 300 S. WALCOTT 903-665-3700
INN OF JEFFERSON 400 S. WALCOTT 903-665-3983
CONTACT City of Jefferson Tourism Department 305 E. Austin St, Jefferson, TX 75657 903-665-3733 www.VisitJeffersonTexas.com
Kilgore
Did you know?
.LOJRUH KDV D VPDOO WRZQ DWPRVSKHUH DQG XQLTXH KLVWRU\ WKDW VHWV WKH VWDJH IRU WRGD\¡V GLVWLQFWLYH FRPPXQLW\ 1HVWOHG LQ WKH 3LQH\ ZRRGV RI (DVW 7H[DV .LOJRUH KDV EHHQ LGHQWLÀHG DV WKH ´&LW\ RI 6WDUV ¾ 0RUH WKDQ 80 oil derricks dot the Kilgore skyline today, all topped with lighted stars as a reminder that our Country’s Stars and Stripes wave free.
ATTRACTIONS East Texas Oil Museum located on the campus of Kilgore College in Kilgore, Texas. This fascinating museum houses the authentic re-creation of oil discovery and production in the HDUO\ V IURP WKH ODUJHVW RLO ÀHOG LQVLGH 8 6 ERXQGDULHV 1100 Broadway Blvd, Kilgore, TX 903-983-8295 www.easttexasoilmuseum.com Driller Park Historic Driller Park was built in 1947 for the Kilgore Drillers, a minor league team who called the stadium home for four seasons. Widely regarded as the top baseball facility in East Texas, Driller was constructed with raw materials from the East Texas oil patch. 100 S Commerce St, Kilgore, TX www.pumpjackbaseball.com The World’s Richest Acre In 1987 when a resource team from the Main Street Program of the Texas Historical Commission visited Kilgore for three days of study, little did they know what they were about to create. Commerce Street, Kilgore, Tx
more memorable event. Contact the Kilgore Chamber of Commerece and Visitors Bureau. and we will be glad to assist you with arrangements.
TRANSPORTATION Kilgore is located 2 miles south of I-20 To reach Kilgore by air \RX FDQ Ă \ LQWR *UHJJ &RXQW\ DLUSRUW RU 7\OHU 3RXQGV $LUSRUW Both have rental cars available, Amtrack Services Longview which is 10 miles north of Kilgore.
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES The Kilgore Chamber of commerce and Visitors Bureau is available to help tour groups with special needs, tour guides, hotel accommodations, restaurant reservations, information packets, customized tours or any other needs that come up.
The Kilgore Rangerettes In 1939, Kilgore College Dean, Dr. B.E. Masters, decided that the college needed an organization that would attract young women to the college and keep people in their seats during football game halftimes. 1100 Broadway Kilgore, Tx 903-983-8273 www.rangerettes.com Texas Shakespeare Festival In April 1984, the idea for the Texas Shakespeare Festival was developed: to establish a professional summer theatre for East Texas based in Kilgore that would be housed in the Van Cliburn Auditorium; to create a company with a name that would have broad appeal to professional theatre artists, employing high caliber actors, designers and directors from throughout the nation 1100 Broadway Kilgore, Tx 903-983-8119 www.texasshakespeare.com
Texas History
LODGING Comfort Suites 1210 Hwy 259 N. 903-984-2385
Days Inn 4312 State Hwy 42 903-984-2385
Hampton Inn 3109 Hwy 259 N. 903-983-3300
Best Western Inn 1411 US 259 Bus. 903-986-1195
Executive Inn 3505 Hwy 259 N. 903-983-1599
Delux Inn 2004 Hwy 42 903-984-5501
Holiday Inn Express Americas Best Value Inn Manor Inn Kilgore 3308 US Hwy 259 N. 3298 US Hwy 259 N. 3501 Hwy 259 N. 903-986-3533 903-988-2800 903-983-3456
GROUP DINING A variety of restaurants are available to serve groups TXLFNO\ DQG HIĂ€FLHQWO\ QR PDWWHU ZKDW WKH PHQX FKRLFH throughout the city. Outside catering at local attractions can also be arranged, making your tour a special and even
Surrounded by the lush green pine forests and clear blue lakes of East Texas, Kilgore has a long and unusual history that sets the stage for today’s XQLTXH FRPPXQLW\ 3ODQWDWLRQ RZQHUV VHWWOHG WKH DUHD EHIRUH WKH &LYLO :DU Kilgore itself was established in 1872 with the coming of the Great Northern Railroad. A quiet farming community of 500, Kilgore was thrust into the LQWHUQDWLRQDO VSRWOLJKW LQ WKH V ZLWK WKH GLVFRYHU\ RI RQH RI WKH JUHDWHVW RLO ÀHOGV RI RXU WLPH ,Q MXVW WHQ VKRUW GD\V WKH WRZQ¡V SRSXODWLRQ H[SORGHG DV PRUH WKDW IRUWXQH VHHNHUV VZDUPHG .LOJRUH IURP DOO RYHU WKH ZRUOG By 1939, a forest of nearly 1,200 oil derricks crowded together within the city limits-most concentrated within one square block that became known as the :RUOG¡V 5LFKHVW $FUH
CONTACT Kilgore Chamber of Commerce and Visitors Bureau 813 North Kilgore Street Kilgore, Texas 75662 903-984-5022 or 866-984-0400 www.VisitKilgore.com
35
Kilgore - SUGGESTED ITINERARY Day 1 <RX DUH LQ IRU D XQLTXH KLVWRULFDO H[SHULHQFH ZKHQ YLVLWLQJ the City of Stars. Grab your hardhat and start your day by OHDUQLQJ DERXW WKH ¡V ODUJHVW RLO ÀHOG GLVFRYHU\ LQVLGH 8 6 boundaries by touring a re-creation of Boomtown, USA at the East Texas Oil Museum. Then head to historic downtown Kilgore where you can walk among the giant star-topped oil derricks that line the sky at the World’s Richest Acre and divulge at one of Kilgore’s local downtown restaurants for lunch. Spend your afternoon high-stepping through time at the World Famous Rangerette Showcase Museum. Then cap your day off by unwinding with a wonderful meal at RQH RI .LOJRUH¡V ÀQH GLQLQJ HVWDEOLVKPHQWV Day 2 After a relaxing stay at one of Kilgore’s hotels, explore the spectacular East Texas Piney Woods area. Kilgore is surrounded by charming towns of Gladewater, Henderson, /RQJYLHZ 1DFRJGRFKHV DQG 7\OHU ZKHUH \RX ZLOO ÀQG immense beauty, culture, and history. No matter the time of year, a Kilgore getaway is full of exciting events and attractions. The Texas Shakespeare Festival, East Texas Pipe Organ Festival, The Oilmen’s Chili Cook-Off, Great Texas Balloon Race and Christmas Under the Stars will provide you with ample opportunities for fun and enjoyment.
36
Did you know?
Longview
Longview is considered the hub of East Texas for outdoor recreation, attractions and shopping. /RQJYLHZ LV IDPRXV IRU LWV IDEXORXV IHVWLYDOV ÀQH GLQLQJ DQG KLVWRULF GRZQWRZQ
GROUP DINING Johnny Caces, Seafood & Steakhouse
800-491-6653
New Orleans-style Creole in a warm atmosphere. 1501 E. Marshall Ave wwwJohnnyCaces.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - 903-753-0912 Pizza King Original recipe pizza in East Texas. 1100 East Marshall www.PizzaKingLongview.com
SHOPPING Downtown shopping begins at Longview’s landmark FORFN WRZHU RQ 7\OHU VWUHHW /RQJYLHZ IHDWXUHV DQWLTXH VKRSV ERXWLTXHV FUDIWHU PDOOV WUHQG\ FDIHV FRIIHH shops and much more. Ellis Pottery RQ 86 +Z\ IRU WKDW XQLTXH GpFRU IRU your home or business. From selection to price, you’ll ÀQG VKRSSLQJ D UHDO SOHDVXUH LQ /RQJYLHZ 903-663-9111 www.EllisPottery.com
LODGING Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, Complimentary Hot Express Breakfast Bar and High-Speed Internet. Exercise Facility, Outdoor Pool, Indoor Corridor. 900S. Access Rd, 75602. 903-247-3000. www.hiexpress.com/longviewtx.
TRANSPORTATION Amtrak, Amtrak’s Longview station is on the east side of downtown, 1/2 block north of the intersection of Cotton St. and Mobberly Ave. 903-758-0902 www.TexasEagle.com
ATTRACTIONS Longview Museum of Fine Arts - originated in 1958 and
exhibits 6 shows per year, including works from artists from Texas and the Southwest, as well as international artists. 215 E. Tyler Street Longview, TX 75606. Downtown Longview. 903-753-8103 www.lmfa.org
East Texas Regional Airport, is located 8 miles outside of Longview. 269 Terminal Circle, Longview, TX 75603. 903-758-0902 www.Flyggg.com
The Gregg County Historical Museum - is housed in the Historic Everett Building, also in downtown Longview. Many exhibits illustrate the development of Gregg County and colorful history of the area. 214 North Fredonia Longview, TX 75606 903-753-5840 www.GreggHistorical.org Heritage Plaza - on the corner of Methvin and Green Streets in downtown Longview, is a key landmark in the history of Longview and Gregg County. 903-753-3281
www.VisitLongviewTexas.com
CONTACT Longview Convention and Visitors Bureau 410 N. Center Street Longview, Texas 75601 903-753-3281 www.VisitLongviewTexas.com
37
Did you know?
Nacogdoches
*HW DZD\ WR EHDXWLIXO 1DFRJGRFKHV )URP DQWLTXLQJ WR QDWXUH ZDONV 1DFRJGRFKHV KDV VRPHWKLQJ WR RIIHU everyone. We invite you to stroll the red brick streets of historic downtown and experience the hospitality and charm of the Oldest Town in Texas, hike miles of historic trails that once served as trade routes for Native $PHULFDQV RU EUHDN IRU WHD LQ D 9LFWRULDQ PDQVLRQ 1DFRJGRFKHV LV ÀOOHG ZLWK SKRWR RSSRUWXQLWLHV DQG VR PDQ\ reasons to come back to see us again.
ATTRACTIONS Stone Fort Museum - The campus of Stephen F. Austin State University is home to a fort that never served as a fort. Stone Fort Museum was a trading post, private home, church, jail and saloon. It was built three times - torn down by men and rebuilt by women. Stephen F. Austin State University 936-468-2408 Durst Taylor House and Gardens - Durst-Taylor Historic House and Gardens is an 1830s wood-frame house interpreted to the 1840 to 1860 time period when the Blackburn family lived there. The grounds include a blacksmith shop, smokehouse and historic gardens. Open Tuesday - Saturday from 10 am - 4 pm. 304 North Street. 936-560-4443 Historic Town Center - The Nacogdoches Visitors’ Center, operated by the Nacogdoches CVB, is located in the heart RI KLVWRULF GRZQWRZQ +HUH \RX ZLOO ÀQG VRPH ZRQGHUIXO information about the history and legends of Texas’ oldest town. 200 E. Main Street 936-564-7351 www.VisitNacogdoches.org Millard’s Crossing Historic Village - Nestled among the pine trees of the oldest town in Texas is this charming reconstructed historic village that enables visitors to imagine East Texas as it was in the 19th century. Heritage tours are available for large and small groups of all ages. 6020 North Street 936-564-6631 Nacogdoches Fire Museum - The Fire Museum was built in 1996 LQ WKH IRUPHU ÀUH GHSDUWPHQW VKRS RQ 6RXWK )UHGRQLD 6WUHHW at the back of the Central Fire Station. The museum contains 1DFRJGRFKHV¡ ÀUVW ÀUH HQJLQH DQG D QXPEHU RI SLFWXUHV DQG RWKHU ÀUH GHSDUWPHQW PHPRUDELOLD ( 3LOODU 6WUHHW 936-559-2541
GROUP DINING Nacogdoches has many tour friendly dining options ranging IURP IDVW IRRG WR IDPLO\ VW\OH GLQLQJ WR RXU IDPRXV ORFDO Ă DYRU For a complete listing visit www.VisitNacogdoches.org
SHOPPING
Scan QR Code to get started Friendly step-on guides will lead you to historic museums, native gardens and homegrown restaurants. Our Group Tour Team will tailor an unforgettable trip to your group’s interests. 1-888-OLDEST-TOWN (888-653-3788) www.VisitNacogdoches.org
LODGING Almost every major limited service hotel chain is represented in Nacogdoches, as well as historic accommodations, independent properties and B&B’s. All are eager to work with your group to insure you have a pleasant stay. Many offer free breakfast with their rooms as well as other amenities that will leave you feeling refreshed and ready for your next day of adventure.
You may want to bring along an extra suitcase! One of the PRVW XQLTXH DVSHFWV RI 1DFRJGRFKHV LV WKH ODUJH QXPEHU RI ORFDOO\ RZQHG VSHFLDOW\ DQG DQWLTXH VWRUHV \RX¡OO ÀQG KHUH 9LVLW Nacogdoches’ countless family-owned shops and restaurants; places that still do business the old-fashioned way. Stop into a 100-year-old hardware store that still sells nails by the pound; the only professional stained glass studio in East Texas; and an old-style barber shop like your dad used to visit. There’s no other place in Texas like it!
CONTACT Nacogdoches Convention & Visitors Bureau 200 E. Main St. Nacogdoches, Texas 75961 888-OLDEST-TOWN (888-653-3788) www.VisitNacogdoches.org
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¡ The oldest town in Texas knows a little something about Southern hospitality. Located in the heart of downtown Nacogdoches, the historic Hotel Fredonia is a wonderful place to relax during your visit to the city’s many museums, celebrated trails, colorful gardens and brick street shopping.
¡ Hotel Fredonia’s certiďŹ ed Texas Friendly staff accommodates groups large and small with 112 guest rooms, area partnerships for overow rooms, in-house culinary services, and a convention center with over 13,500 square feet of event space.
¡ Our thoughtful and attentive team of hospitality professionals are waiting to exceed your group’s expectations.
1-800-594-5323 ¡ Nacogdoches, TX
www.HotelFredonia.com
Tyler
Did you know?
Tyler, TX, the Rose Capital of America is not only “A Natural Beautyâ€?, but it is also home to world famous gardens, QDWLRQDOO\ UHFRJQL]HG UHVWDXUDQWV DQG ORWV RI IDPLO\ IXQ 7\OHU¡V XQLTXH FRPELQDWLRQ RI VPDOO WRZQ FKDUP DQG big-city cosmopolitan entertainment offers the best of both worlds for family and group travelers alike.
ATTRACTIONS 1859 Goodman-LeGrand Home & Museum - A delight for DQWLTXH ORYHUV DQG KLVWRULDQV WKLV ODQGPDUN EULQJV WKH SDVW to life with original furnishings, memorabilia and photographs dating from the early 1800’s. 624 N. Broadway. 903-531-1286 www.GoodManMuseum.com American Freedom Museum – Featuring over 600 artifacts in 15 JDOOHULHV WKLV XQLTXH LQWHUDFWLYH PXVHXP GRFXPHQWV RXU QDWLRQ¡V PLOLWDU\ IURP WKH $PHULFDQ 5HYROXWLRQ WR WKH VDQGV RI ,UDT FM 2493, Bullard. 903-894-5252 www.AmericanFreedomMuseum.org Brookshire’s World of Wildlife Museum & Country Store - Over 450 mounted examples of wildlife and a replica of a 1920’s grocery store in which you will feel like you have stepped back in time when you visit. WSW Loop 323 and Old Jacksonville Hwy. 903-534-2169 www.BrookshiresMuseum.com Kiepersol Winery - This beautiful 33-acre vineyard continues to grow in acclaim. Visitors may enjoy wine tastings, tours of the winemaking process, an annual grape stomp and relaxing on the veranda overlooking the expansive vista of the vineyard. 3933 FM 344E, Bullard. 903-894-8995 www.Kiepersol.com
GROUP DINING
Find Great Deals on Local Hotels
Potpourri House Tea Room and Gift Shop 7\OHU¡V PRVW XQLTXH shopping and dining experience under one roof, Serving Steak, Seafood, Entrees, Sandwiches, Soups and Salads. When \RX¡UH Ă€QLVKHG GLQLQJ FKHFN RXW WKH JLIW VKRS ZKLFK LV IXOO RI Candles, Jewelry, Home Decor, Chocolates, Silver, Clothing, Accessories and Leather. 3320 Troup Hwy., Suite 300. 903-592-4171 www.PotpourriHouse.com Tyler has many more group dining locations available that can accommodate groups of 15-100 people, as well. Please contact the CVB for a complete list of ‘Group-Friendly’ restaurants.
Best Western Southpark Inn & Suites 120 W. Rieck Rd. (60 Rooms) 903-534-8800
Country Inn & Suites 6702 S. Broadway. (69 Rooms) 903-561-0863
Sleep Inn & Suites 5555 S. Donnybrook Ave. (79 Rooms) 903-581-8646
SHOPPING Midway Mall- 4800 Texoma Parkway. 903-892-1188 www.Simon.com Town Center- Big-box retail, movie theater, and restaurantsUS 75 Northwest of Hwy. 82. Antique Shops- LQFOXGLQJ 7RXFK RI &ODVV $QWLTXH 0DOO W. Lamar, Shopsof South Travis, and many more are located throughout Sherman. Downtown Square- including Bella Fontana Spa and specialty shops.
CONTACT
Tyler Convention & Visitors Bureau 315 N. Broadway, Tyler, Texas 75702 1-800-235-5712 www.VisitTyler.com
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Gulf Coast Region Map 1
Spotlight Cities ALVIN (B4) What started out as a small Texas cowtown has grown into a community which honors the past and continues to seek new horizons. Alvin Convention & Visitors Bureau 200 Depot Centre Blvd. Alvin, Texas 77511 281-585-3359 www.AlvinTexas.org
A
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3
4
5
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m Tomball
Beaumont u
45
Humble Crosby
t Katy
Nederland a Baytown B
10
Houston o L Sugar Land Richmond
Port Arthur Winnie e
Pasadena Stafford 45
Pearland
B
10
Orange Groves
Wharton El Campo
Alvin Galveston o Angleton
ANGLETON (B4) A growing community of nearly 19,000 residents. Angleton is a hub of technology, agriculture and history located 30 miles from Houston and 12 miles to the Gulf of Mexico. City of Angleton City Hall: 121 S. Velasco, Angleton, Texas 77515 979-849-4364 www.Angleton.tx.us
Lake Jackson Ed Edna
C
Bay City
Clute
Brazosport B
Victoria Palacios
Matagorda
Port Lavaca Sea Drift Refugio
D Mathis
nt Sinton
Rockport Ingleside
BAY CITY(C3) Midway between Galveston and Corpus Christi, right where the Colorado River meets the sea, Matagorda County lies at a curious FRQĂ XHQFH RI QDWXUH DQG KLVWRU\ WKDW JRHV back nearly 500 years, and it just seems to get better with time. Matagorda County Convention & Visitors Bureau 201 7th Stree Bay City, Texas 77414 877-878-5386 www.VisitMataGordaCounty.com
E
Corpus Christi st Kingston
Sarita
F Armstrong
Rudolph
State Park Port Mansfield
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Rest Areas Attraction Harlingen
BRAZOSPORT (C4) The Brazosport area is known for its diversity, rich history, and natural beauty. Brazosport Convention & Visitors Council 300 Abner Jackson Parkway, Lake Jackson,TX 77566 888-477-2505; www.VisitBrazosport.com GALVESTON (B5) Galveston is the perfect winter destination just 50 miles away from Houston, but a world away in spirit! Galveston CVB 601 Tremont St. Galveston Island, TX 77550 866-505-4456 x150 www.Galveston.com ORANGE (A6) Located in the southeast corner of Texas on the border of Louisiana, Orange is home to a variety of world-class cultural experiences. Orange Convention & Visitors Bureau 803 Green Avenue Orange, TX. 77631 1800-528-4906 www.OrangeTexas.org PEARLAND (B4) With its centralized location and suburban OLIHVW\OH 3HDUODQG LV XQLTXHO\ SRVLWLRQHG WR provide convenient access to both businesses and attractions. Pearland Destination Marketing 6117 Broadway, Pearland, Texas 77581 877-485-PEAR www.VisitPearland.com
40
Must See San Benito n
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Brownsville
Planners Tip: Be Prepared for Emergencies It is a good idea to prepare for any emergency by gathering the necessary information from the tour members before you embark on a trip. This includes legal name, address, phone number(s) and email. It’s best to also ask for an emergency contact (family member, best friend or neighbor) and the member’s personal physician and any necessary information on the medical insurance plan to which they belong. It should be easy to make up a simple form for your members to ¿OO RXW WKDW FDQ HDVLO\ EH WDNHQ ZLWK \RX RQ WKH WULS $VVXUH \RXU PHPEHUV WKH LQIRUPDWLRQ ZLOO UHPDLQ FRQ¿GHQWLDO DQG RQO\ XVHG in an emergency. You hope you never need this information but it’s worth its weight in gold if you do.
Did you know?
Alvin
$OYLQ LV ORFDWHG WZHQW\ ÀYH PLOHV VRXWKHDVW RI +RXVWRQ LQ QRUWKHDVW %UD]RULD &RXQW\ RQ ODQG RULJLQDOO\ JUDQWHG WR the Houston Tap and Brazoria Railroad. Alvin is home to 24,236 residents and has much to offer our citizens and visitors alike. Froberg’s own homemade pies, preserves, salsa and meats! With breezy, open air market shopping, Frobergs claims to EH WKH œODUJHVW RSHQ DLU IDUPHUV PDUNHW¡ LQ WKH DUHD DQG offers not only fruit and vegetables, but has branched out WR LQFOXGH à RZHUV IUHVKO\ VPRNHG PHDWV DQG VDXVDJH DQ RXWGRRU OLYLQJ DUHD ZLWK EDU E TXH SLWV FXVWRP PDGH SLFQLF tables and swings, a garden center and seasonal items for shoppers. Located off CR 190, you have to cross the tracks to enter the driveway; and you really have the whole country farm experience. 7RXUV DUH DYDLODEOH E\ UHTXHVW GXULQJ 0D\ DQG 1RYHPEHU Monday through Friday. This wonderful family owned and operated farm is located on County Road 190. 281-585-3531 www.FrobergsFarm.com Alvin Opry - If you enjoy Country and Gospel music, you’ll want to visit the ALVIN OPRY on Friday and Saturday nights. Performances are at 8:00pm at Eighth and Sealy St. in Alvin, call 281-331-8181. If you like to dance, EDDIE’S BALLROOM is the place to do it. Located on CR 385 in Manvel, 281-489-8181 www.AlvinOpry.com Alvin Historical Museum - +RXVHG LQ WKH IRUPHU SRVW RIÀFH EXLOGLQJ DW :HVW 6HDO\ LV RIÀFLDOO\ RSHQ 9LVLWRUV FDQ WRXU the museum and see exhibits every Thursday and Friday from D P XQWLO S P DQG WKH ÀUVW 6DWXUGD\ RI HYHU\ PRQWK IURP 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. Admission is $3 per person.
ATTRACTIONS Nolan Ryan Center - In the fall of 1996, the $1.2 million Nolan Ryan Center was completed and donated to Alvin Community College with space leased within the building for the Nolan Ryan Exhibit which opened in early 1999. Some of the highlights in the Exhibit Hall are: • Theater providing insight into Nolan’s character and his journey towards excellence. • Interactive pitch-catch exhibit where the visitor “feelsâ€? a Nolan Ryan fastball in a catcher’s mitt. • Videos of Nolan’s career with the Mets, Angels, Astros and Rangers. • Stats and exclusive photos of Nolan’s 27-year career in Major League Baseball. • Essays with pictorials by Talmage Boston, baseball historian. • A Rawlings Hall of Records depicting Nolan’s 5,714 strikeouts
The Alvin Museum Gift Shop is also open the same hours as the museum and features items for sales such as calendars, ornaments and the 1915 directories. In addition, there are magnets, key chains and local history books and books by local authors Bill Crider, Larry Phillips and others.
GROUP DINING Alvin has many more group dining locations available that can accommodate groups of 15-100 people, as well. Please FRQWDFW WKH &9% IRU D FRPSOHWH OLVW RI œ*URXS )ULHQGO\¡ restaurants.
LODGING Americas Best Value Inn & Suites - 1588 South Bypass 35 Alvin, Texas 281-331-0335 www.AmericasBestValueInn.com Best Western Alvin Inn - 1470 South Bypass 35 Alvin, Texas 1-800-528-1234 www.Bestwestern.com Super 8 - 1535 South Bypass 35 Alvin, Texas 1-281-756-8800 www.super8.com Holiday Inn Express & Suites - 900 South Loop 35 Alvin, Texas 77511 281-331-8800 www.hiexpress.com.com LaQuinta Inn & Suites - 880 South Loop 35 Alvin, Texas 77511 281-585-3900 ZZZ OT FRP
The Nolan Ryan Exhibit and Center is open Monday - Friday 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. The Exhibit is closed on Sundays. 281-388-1134 www.NolanRyanFoundation.org
Alvin Convention & Visitors Bureau
Froberg’s Farms – For over 60 years Froberg’s Farm has been providing Alvin and the surrounding communities with a large variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, nuts and a variety of
200 Depot Centre Blvd. Alvin, Texas 77511 281-585-3359 www.AlvinTexas.org
CONTACT:
41
Angleton
Did you know?
Angleton, the County Seat of Brazoria County, is a thriving community that offers a small town atmosphere with many of the conveniences of a big city. Located just minutes from Houston to the north and The Gulf of Mexico to the south, Angleton boasts attractions that range from historical to bargain hunting, to thrill seeking. Come to Angleton and stay in the heart of the fun!
ATTRACTIONS
LODGING
Market Days Held two times per year the 3rd weekend of March and November. This event hosts over 100 vendors from across the state of Texas. 979-849-4364 www.Angleton.tx.us
La Quinta Inn & Suites
Stephen F Austin Statue This 70 Ft Statue honors the “Father of Texas�
Best Value Inn - 1235 N. Velasco Hwy. 288 Business, TX 77515 979-849-2465 www.AmericasBestValueInn.com
Brazoria County Historical Museum Located in Brazoria County’s historic 1897 courthouse. 979-849-4364 www.Angleton.tx.us
Scottish Inn - 2839 North Velasco, Angleton, TX 77515 979-848-3232
Austin Town Festival Re-enactment of an 1830’s town in colonial Texas. First weekend in November. 979-864-1208 www.bchm.org Brazoria County Fair & Rodeo Largest County Fair in Texas - every October. 901 S. Downing Rd. 979-849-6416 www.bcfa.org MSR Houston - Premier Road racing facility in TX. 1 Performance Drive 281-595-3305 www.MSRHouston.com
GROUP DINING Angleton has many great restaurants to choose from with several offering seating for large parties. Below are some of the favorites: LA CASONA MEXICAN RESTAURANT 979-848-9979 Best place to eat Mexican food in Angleton. 1708 N. Velasco Angleton, 77515 www.LaCasonaFiesta.com - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - SMITHHARTS GRILL 979-848-1320 2440 N Velasco St Angleton, TX 77515 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - GIOVANNI’S ITALIAN RESTAURANT 979-849-3332 729 E Mulberry St, Angleton, TX 77515 - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - CHILIS 2517 N Velasco St, Angleton, TX 77515
- 2400 West Mulberry St, TX. 77515 ZZZ OT FRP
Best Western - 1809 N Velasco Street, Angleton, Texas, 77515 979-849-5822 book.bestwestern.com
Budget Inn - 2209 E Mulberry St, Angleton, TX 77515 979-849-1293 Economy Inn - 2620 S Velasco St, Angleton, TX 77515 979-849-5761 Traveler’s Inn - 1521 East Mulberry, Angleton, Texas 77515 979-849-3981
COMPLIMENTARY SERVICES Tourism Coordinator Martha Eighme would be glad to help with your itinerary and lodging. Arrangements can be made for day trips to other attractions like The Haak Winery, The Sea Center, and Surfside Beach. Special Historical Presentations can be arranged for your group as well. We are here to make your trip to Angleton a memorable one.
SUGGESTED ITINERARY Stephen F Austin Statue This replica honors the “Father of Texasâ€? and promotes the appreciation and recognition of the importance of Brazoria County’s history to both Texas and the United States. Brazoria County Historical Museum Located in Brazoria County’s historic 1897 courthouse. Lunch at one of our group oriented eateries Varner Hogg Plantation This property hosted sugarcane production, rum distilling and oil drilling as it transitioned through families. Explore the SODQWDWLRQ KRXVH VWUROO WKH PDJQLĂ€FHQW JURXQGV DQG KHDU stories of 19th and early 20th century Texas.
979-849-9914 www.chilis.com
East Columbia Homes and Church Drive By with Narration Replica of the First Capitol of The Republic of Texas The 1900 storm destroyed the original capitol. The replica at this site was built in 1976-77.
CONTACT
City of Angleton City Hall: 121 S. Velasco Angleton, Texas 77515 979-849-4364 www.Angleton.tx.us
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Finish the day by visiting one of the following location The Rosenwald School Columbia Historical Museum
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Bay City - Matagorda County
Did you know?
Indeed, nature and education are what Matagorda County does best. But it’s also a great place for LQGXOJHQFH ZLWK ÀQH GLQLQJ DQG ÀQJHU OLFNLQJ EDUEHFXH IUHVK FDXJKW VHDIRRG RYHUORRNLQJ WKH KDUERU DQG home cooking that will make you think of Grandma’s kitchen. It’s also a great place to take your cooler and your lawn chair and kick back to watch the waves roll in.
ATTRACTIONS :KHQ \RX YLVLW 0DWDJRUGD &RXQW\ \RX ZLOO ÀQG PLOHV RI XQ touched beautiful beaches that can soothe your soul. We have amazing kayaking trails that can take you to a place RI SHDFH DQG TXLHW \RX GLGQ¡W NQRZ H[LVWHG %HLQJ QXPEHU one in the NAS Christmas Bird Count, you can rest assured WKDW ELUG HQWKXVLDVWV ÀQG WKHLU KHDYHQ KHUH GXULQJ PLJUDWRU\ VHDVRQV $QG ÀVKLQJ WKDW¡OO PDNH \RX D ORQJ WLPH SDWURQ WR 0DWDJRUGD &RXQW\ RQFH \RX¡YH ÀVKHG RXU YDULHW\ RI ULYHUV bays and surf. Our tasty restaurants, cozy hotels and shops are the icing on the cake with the cherry on top!
Kayaking
Fishing
OMETHING GOOD IS WAITING
• FEB-MARCH – Matagorda County Fair Livestock Show & Rodeo • JUNE –Shakespeare in Hollywood Stage Comedy, Bay City • JULY – July 4th Celebration & Firework Show,
Unwinding
Bay City & Palacios • AUGUST – Annual Rotary Concert, Bay City • OCTOBER – Pedal Palacios, MS-150 Recommended Ride •DECEMBER – Lighted Christmas Parade, Bay City
SHOPPING
Birding
Take a step back in time when you shop our historic downWRZQ VTXDUH )LQG WUHDVXUHV WKDW DUH WUXO\ RQH RI D NLQG )URP DQWLTXHV WR MHZHOU\ WR ZHVWHUQ ZHDU RU D ERRNVWRUH ZH DOVR KDYH ERXWLTXHV FKLOGUHQ¡V DSSDUHO JLIW VKRSV DQG DQ DPD]ing bakery. When the shopping is done, you’ll want to stop by our coffee bar or try one of our tasty restaurants. We have PDQ\ ÀQH GLQLQJ FKRLFHV DQG ZH DUH NQRZQ IRU RXU VHDIRRG being so close to the coast. And if you get tired afterward, go get a massage at one of our fabulous spas.
GROUP DINING Matagorda County has many tour friendly dining options ranging IURP IDVW IRRG WR IDPLO\ VW\OH GLQLQJ WR RXU IDPRXV ORFDO Ă DYRU For a complete listing visit www.VisitMataGordaCounty.com
LODGING Bay City and Matagorda County have a wide variety of choices when it comes to staying the night with us. In Bay City you have many big name hotel chains as options with amenities including pools, hot tubs, hospitality hours, hot breakfast and heavenly beds. We also have beach house rentals on the Colorado River or right on the Gulf of Mexico and there are several cozy bed & breakfasts as options too.
CONTACT
Matagorda County Convention & Visitors Bureau 201 7th Street Bay City, TX 77414 877-878-5386 www.VisitMataGordaCounty.com
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www.visitmatagordacounty.com
Must See!
•
877-TRVL-FUN
Matagorda County Museum
Known for one of the most important shipwreck discoveries in North America, Matagorda County takes you on an amazing adventure exploring how the famous La Belle Shipwreck was discovered by archeologists and excavated from the bottom of the ocean in Matagorda Bay 1995. On display in this museum are a diorama of part of the excavation and artifacts from the ship, including a bronze cannon and navigational instruments. Our historical museum also highlights local and state history including Karankawa Indians, Early Western Cowboys, The Gusmans, Civil Servants that were major contributors and played a major role to Bay City and Matagorda County and also Natural Science History. The museum is available for public visitation as well as SULYDWH WRXUV IRU JURXSV DQG RUJDQL]DWLRQV XSRQ UHTXHVW 4XLOWV Exhibit runs January - March each year, Festival of Trees starts 3rd week in November - January 1st, Art Exhibit March- May. Call for more information about museum calendar of events.
Should you consider Domestic Travel Insurance? Travel insurance can save you from serious trouble when the unexpected happens on your trip. Many people think of travel insurance as a necessity for international travel, but will skip it for domestic trips. However, it may be worth investigating for your group’s trip.
one with either a good reputation or that someone you know has recommended. As with any purchase, comparison shopping and research are bound to save you money and help make sure WKDW \RX JHW WKH EHVW SODQ IRU \RXU PRQH\ $OVR UHDGLQJ WKH ÀQH print is a must when determining if you need coverage and what kind will serve your group best.
What is travel insurance?
Travel insurance policies may cover: Travel insurance is protection against unexpected events or delays that occur on your trip. It can cover the costs if your group is snowed in. It can cover lost or stolen baggage. It can help if you are found liable for damage caused to someone else’s property. Depending on the policy, a wide variety of life’s unfortunate happenings can be covered.
• •
•
Group policies If your group consists of more than a certain number of individuals, many insurers are willing to offer group plans. These plans usually offer discounts over individual plans. A group plan may also look at your group as a group, making no distinctions between the 90-year-olds and nine-year-olds in it.
• • • • •
Cancellations by your carrier or destination Cancellations made by you for emergency reasons such as a medical professional advising you not to travel or a death or medical emergency in the family Cancellations due to natural disasters at home or your destination Lost, damaged, or stolen items Expenses incurred by your estate should you die while traveling Excess rental car mileage Damage to rental cars Dental costs
Making the right choice Travelers insurance is a confusing issue. With such a wide variety of coverage types and drastically varying prices, it can be difÀFXOW WR FKRRVH EHWZHHQ WKHP $ JRRG JXLGHOLQH LV WR FKRRVH from one of the larger travel insurance companies, or choose
45
Did you know?
Galveston
Galveston Island offers everything in a resort destination – beautiful accommodations, entertainment, shopping and 32 miles of Gulf Coast beaches. Galveston ’s festivals, special events and attractions are enjoyable for Islanders and tourists alike. One bit of advice – if you live here, don’t wait until you have out-oftown visitors to tour the Island ’s many attractions.
ATTRACTIONS
TRANSPORTATION
Moody Mansion - W.L Moody Jr. bought the home from the heirs of the original owners soon after the great hurricane of 1900. Mr. and Mrs. Moody and their four children celebrated WKH ÀUVW RI PRUH WKDQ HLJKW\ &KULVWPDV VHDVRQV LQ WKH KRXVH in December of that year. The house remained home for 0RRG\ IDPLO\ PHPEHUV XQWLO 7RGD\ LWV URRPV DUH ÀOOHG with the furnishings and personal effects of the family. 2618 Broadway, Galveston, Texas 77550. 409-762-7668 www.MoodyMansion.org
Galveston is, indeed, an island off the Gulf Coast of Texas, about 50 miles from downtown Houston. Therefore, there are not any airports to get you here. Nor would taking a taxi or public transportation get you a deal or save you money. Driving your car, renting one, or taking a tour bus is the best option for getting to Galveston.
Moody Gardens - Looking for island fun? Work or play, this tropical destination is ideal for families and groups alike. At Moody GardensŽ, you can experience life at the Rainforest PyramidŽ – now open after $25 million in enhancements – featuring an assortment of exotic and endangered plants and animals from WKH UDLQIRUHVWV RI WKH ZRUOG ([SORUH WKH $TXDULXP 3\UDPLGŠ where you can meet a real penguin in our Penguin Encounter. One Hope Boulevard, Galveston, Texas 77554 1-800-582-4673 www.MoodyGardens.org Texas Seaport Museum - Share the adventure of the high seas at the Texas Seaport Museum, home of the celebrated WDOO VKLS (OLVVD ([SORUH WKH GHFNV RI WKLV à RDWLQJ 1DWLRQDO Historic Landmark which has also been designated one of America’s Treasures by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. Walk Elissa’s decks and imagine the days when daring sailors challenged the world’s oceans. In the adjacent museum and theater, witness the story of Elissa’s dramatic rescue from the scrap yard and her meticulous restoration. Pier 21, Number 8 Galveston, Texas 77550 409-763-1877 www.GalvestonHistory.org
GROUP DINING )UXLWIXO ÀVKLQJ ZDWHUV DURXQG *DOYHVWRQ ,VODQG SURYLGH ORFDO restaurants with the freshest and largest selection of seafood on the Gulf of Mexico, and area eateries presents these fruits of the sea at their tastiest.
SHOPPING $QWLTXH ORYHUV DUW DÀFLRQDGRV DQG VKRSSHUV RI DOO NLQGV will discover beautiful and interesting objects on display at *DOYHVWRQ ,VODQG¡V P\ULDG RI VKRSV )URP WKH TXDLQW VKRSV RI the Historic Downtown Strand District to the thoroughly modern retailers on Seawall Boulevard, shoppers will delight in the RIIHULQJV UDQJLQJ IURP ÀQH WR IXQ VRXYHQLUV
LODGING Galveston Island boasts a tremendous variety of accommodations for every budget and preference. From luxury hotels and resorts to elegant bed and breakfasts, and from vacaWLRQ EHDFK KRXVH UHQWDOV WR FRQGRPLQLXPV \RX ZLOO ÀQG MXVW the place to suit your needs.
In downtown Galveston, also known as The Strand a trolley is available for $1.50. It circles around the historic Victorian homes. It’s a great way to see the old city, as well as a chance to rest your feet from all the shopping at The Strand! There are a multitude of ways to get around the 10 mile stretch of the Seawall. After driving to the area you’re welcome to choose from an array of fun transportation such as: bicycles, scooters, covered bikes, etc. If you are coming to Galveston by car from east Texas, or while on the island you are looking for a little something out of the ordinary to do, the Bolivar Ferry is a short but fun alternative. The ferry runs between the eastern end of the island and the western tip of the Bolivar peninsula. The trip takes about 10-15 minutes to cross the 2 1/2 mile channel, and pedestrians as well as cars are able to board. There are some nice views RI *DOYHVWRQ %D\ IURP WKH IHUU\ DQG TXLWH RIWHQ GROSKLQV FDQ be seen following along it’s route. If coming from Galveston, the Bolivar peninsula has some great seafood restaurants, as well as some nice beaches such as Crystal Beach. And best of all, it’s completely free to ride!
Must See! Moody Gardens Moody Gardens Work or play, this tropical destination is ideal for families and groups alike. Water your imagination and WUDYHO WKH RFHDQV RI WKH ZRUOG DW WKH $TXDULXP 3\UDPLG Step into the Rainforest Pyramid with thousands of tropical SODQWV H[RWLF ÀVK DQG ELUGV ([SORUH WKH P\VWHULHV RI VFLHQFH at the Discovery Pyramid, and take a rocking and rolling ULGH WKURXJK WKH XQLYHUVH DW WKH 5LGHÀOP 7KHDWHU *HW LQ WKH middle of the action at the 4D Special FX Theater. See spectacular images leap from the screen of the six-story IMAX 3D Theater and visit beautiful Palm Beach (seasonal) and the newly expanded Moody Gardens Hotel.
CONTACT
Galveston CVB 601 Tremont St. Galveston Island, TX 77550 866-505-4456 x150 www.Galveston.com
46
FAM Group Touring Moody Gardens
Brazosport
Did you know?
Brazosport is a Texas Gulf Coast community comprised of Clute, Freeport, Lake Jackson, and Surfside Beach just 50 miles VRXWK RI +RXVWRQ :LWK RYHU PLOHV RI QDWXUDO VDQG\ EHDFKHV RIIVKRUH ÀVKLQJ WKDW LV XQPDWFKHG DQ\ZKHUH LQ 7H[DV WKH %UD]RULD DQG 6DQ %HUQDUG 1DWLRQDO :LOGOLIH 5HIXJHV 6HD &HQWHU 7H[DV $TXDULXP DQG +DWFKHU\ PXVHXPV DWWUDFWLRQV restaurants and shopping, Brazosport is the perfect getaway for any group or the entire family.
The Gulf Coast Bird Observatory - This research and education facility coordinates data on migrating and resident avifauna. The observatory sits on 34 acres of Columbia Bottomland forest and has a great bird-banding program. Native woodland birds and migrants can be found on the many trails at the GCBO. Make sure to visit on the second Saturday in September for the Xtreme Hummingbird Xtravaganza where you will see thumb-sized hummers dart in and out of QHFWDU SURGXFLQJ Ă RZHUV DQG IHHGHUV 6HOI JXLGHG QDWXUH trails are open Monday - Friday from 8:30 am to 4:30 pm and on weekends by appointment.
GROUP DINING You crave it and we have it since there is no shortage of restaurants in the Brazosport Area. Feast on American, barbecue, Cajun, Chinese, fast food, German, Greek, Italian, Mexican, and seafood just to name a few. Whether you want to eat at a drive-thru, an intimate restaurant, on the beach, on the river, family style, in the country, at the mall, on the lake, outdoors or at the airport makes no difference because any of these can be easily accommodated.
SHOPPING You may want to stay a few extra days while visiting! One of WKH PRVW XQLTXH DVSHFWV RI %UD]RVSRUW LV WKH ODUJH QXPEHU RI locally-owned specialty shops. Visit Brazosports’ countless familyowned shops and restaurants; places that still do business the old-fashioned way!
LODGING ATTRACTIONS Sea Center Texas $ PDULQH GHYHORSPHQW DTXDULXP DQG education center in Lake Jackson, Sea Center can produce PLOOLRQ ÀQJHUOLQJV DQQXDOO\ SULPDULO\ UHG GUXP DQG VSRWWHG sea trout, for release into Texas coastal waters. In addition WR JUHDW DTXDULXPV GLVSOD\V DQG D IRRW WRXFK WDQN WKH complex also has a saltwater marsh demonstration boardwalk and a freshwater marsh that is ideal for birding. Closed on Mondays. The Center for the Arts & Sciences - A cultural and educational complex that features an art gallery, a Museum of natural science, a planetarium and two performance theaters. The Center is home to the longest running community theater on the Texas Gulf Coast. The museum contains the largest seashell collection in the South along with fossils, including dinosaurs and mammoth bones. Lake Jackson Historical Museum- The museum chronicles the history of the area through interactive exhibits and life-like animatrons from the plantation era to modern industry. Let Alden Dow explain why Lake Jackson’s streets are named This Way or That Way. Abner Jackson Plantation site tours are also offered through the museum.
This is your destination if you are looking for affordable group fun. Recharge at one of the many national chain hotels or beach house rentals that can sleep 4 to 48. Discover Where Texas Began Brazosport is where Texas history began. It is where the group NQRZQ DV 6WHSKHQ ) $XVWLQ¡V ´2OG Âľ Ă€UVW VWHSSHG RII WKH schooner “Lively,â€? near the mouth of the Brazos River in 1821. 7KHLU KDUGVKLSV DQG VDFULĂ€FHV ZHUH UHZDUGHG ZLWK WKH VLJQLQJ of the Treaties of Velasco, which gave Texas independence from Mexico. Numerous historical markers can be found througout the area including Stephen F. Austin’s original burial site.
CONTACT
Brazosport Convention & Visitors Council 300 Abner Jackson Parkway, Lake Jackson,Texas 77566 888-477-2505 www.VisitBrazosport.com
47
Orange
Did you know?
Orange is located on the Texas-Louisiana state line on Interstate 10. Sabine River borders the east side of the City and the Neches River borders the west side of the county. Driving down the streets of Orange, you see many old oak trees draped with Spanish moss, many Historic homes and churches. History, culture and nature envelop the City. Beautiful sunrises and sunsets are awaiting your visit.
ATTRACTIONS Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center - Nestled on 252 acres in the heart of Orange. More than 300 plant species LQ ÀYH IRUPDO ´ URRPV¾ DV ZHOO DV IRXU VFXOSWXUH ´URRPV¾ $ ERDW ride along Adams Bayou adds another aspect to the tour. 409-670-9113 www.ShangriLaGardens.org First Presbyterian Church - Completed in 1912 and the impressive structure is in the National Register of Historic Places as an outstanding example of Greek Revival architecture. The dome is opalescent glass(the only one in the United States), the windows are beautiful leaded art-glass, the structure is made of JUDQLWH TXDUULHG LQ 7H[DV DQG ,WDOLDQ PDUEOH DQG WKH LQWHULRU LV ULFKO\ RUQDPHQWHG 7KH FKXUFK ZDV WKH ÀUVW EXLOGLQJ ZHVW RI the Mississippi River to be air –conditioned. A must see. 409-883-2097 www.FirstPresOrange.com The Stark Museum of Art - Focusing on the stunning land, the dramatic people and the diverse wildlife of the American West. The museum houses many of the Stark Family’s private collections, including collections by Remington, Russell, Audubon, Dorothy Doughty, Stueben Glass , American Indian REMHFWV DOO WR VHH DQG ÀOO \RXU LPDJLQDWLRQ 409-886-ARTS www.StarkMuseum.org Piney Woods Winery - Located just off Interstate 10, grows many of their own fruits for making of the wines, including: blackberry, strawberry, plum, pear, peach, baked peach, orange and muscadine. 409-883-5408 www.PineywoodsWines.com The W.H. Stark House - A Victorian landmark in Orange. The KRXVH ZDV FRPSOHWHG LQ KDV VTXDUH IHHW WKUHH stories, is beautifully decorated and welcomes your visit. 409-883-0871 www.WHStarkHouse.org Orange is also home to Airboat Rides, a great outdoor adventure. Make plans today for a visit to Orange, many other attractions await your visit.
GROUP DINING If food is part of your itinerary, a wide variety of restaurants, cafĂŠs and fast food are available. If shopping, Orange has VXIĂ€FLHQW VKRSV WR NHHS \RX EXV\ ZKHWKHU ORRNLQJ IRU XQXVXDO RU XQLTXH LWHPV RU ZDQWLQJ D IHZ JURFHULHV WR UH VWRFN WKH pantry, Orange can accommodate.
LODGING Orange has twelve hotels, some swimming pools, hot breakfasts and meeting rooms. Orange also has two active Bed & Breakfasts accommodations. Call for details.
CONTACT
Orange Convention & Visitors Bureau 803 Green Avenue Orange, Texas 77631 1800-528-4906 www.OrangeTexas.org
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Must See! Stark House / Shangri La Botanical Gardens 7KH VTXDUH IRRW KRPH ZDV EXLOW LQ 1894 in Orange, Texas, by William Henry Stark and his wife, Miriam M. Lutcher Stark, prominent philanthropists who occupied the home until 1936. Designed in the Queen Anne architectural style, the house features a distinctive turret, stained glass windows, and ornate woodwork in cypress and long leaf yellow pine. Nestled within 252 acres in the heart of Orange, Texas, Shangri La Botanical Gardens and Nature Center is a program of the Nelda C. and H.J. Lutcher Stark Foundation, a private foundation whose mission is to improve and enrich WKH TXDOLW\ RI OLIH LQ 6RXWKHDVW 7H[DV DQG encourage and assist education. The XQLTXH HFRV\VWHP RI 6KDQJUL /D SUHVents an ideal opportunity to further that mission as well as carry on the vision of H.J Lutcher Stark, the man who originally developed it more than 60 years ago.
Pearland
Did you know?
Fueled by major growth, the City of Pearland, a city south of Houston, has experienced phenomenal growth in population, hotel rooms, and retail shopping. Our convenient location is an ideal choice for visitors. Just ten miles from Hobby Airport and 15-20 minutes to downtown Houston, Museum District, Minute Maid Park, and Reliant &HQWHU 3HDUODQG LV LGHDOO\ ORFDWHG IRU IXQ VHHNHUV 3HDUODQG¡V SHUIHFW ORFDWLRQ DQG LWV XQLTXH FRQQHFWLRQ WR WKH +RXV+ +RXVton metropolitan area make it an ideal setting for your next event. We want you to come stay with us in Pearland.. Clear Creek Golf Course - 3902 Fellows Rd., Houston, TX 77047 713-738-8000 www.clearcreekgolfclub.com Golfcrest Country Club - 2509 Country Club Drive, Pearland, TX 77581 281-485-4323 www.golfcrestcountryclub.com Country Place Golf Club - 3123 Flower Field Ln, Pearland, TX 77584 713-436-1533 www.countryplacegolfclub.com Southwyck Golf Club - 2901 Clubhouse Dr., Pearland, TX 77584 713-436-9999 www.southwyckgc.com Pearland Town Center - In the Pearland Town Center explore more than 70 shops while strolling down manicured promeQDGHV <RX FDQ ÀQG HYHU\WKLQJ \RX QHHG KHUH ² VKRSSLQJ restaurants, hotels and entertainment. Pearland Town Centers offers weekend shoppers and business travelers an enjoyable experience. 11200 Broadway, Pearland, TX 77584 713-340-0704 www.PearlandTownCenter.com Cole’s Antique Village - Has been a weekend draw in Pearland for more than 30 years, featuring more than 800 permaQHQW YHQGRUV $W WKLV RXWGRRU YHQXH \RX FDQ ÀQG DQ\WKLQJ IURP DQWLTXHV WR DUW WR VDWHOOLWH V\VWHPV &ROH¡V LV DQ DGYHQture for the entire family. 1014 N. Main, Pearland, TX 77581 ZZZ &ROHV$QWLTXH9LOODJH FRP
GROUP DINING
ATTRACTIONS Bass Pro Shops VTXDUH IRRW SOD\JURXQG IRU WKH RXWGRRU HQWKXVLDVW ZKLFK LV SDUW PXVHXP SDUW DTXDULXP DQG part center for education, conservation and entertainment. 9LVLWRUV ZLOO KDYH WKH DUHD¡V ODUJHVW DUUD\ RI ÀVKLQJ HTXLSPHQW IURP ZKLFK WR FKRRVH 7KH VWRUH DOVR IHDWXUHV DUFKHU\ HTXLSment and supplies for hunting, camping, outdoor cooking, bird watching or whatever your outdoor pleasure. 1000 Bass Pro Drive Pearland, TX 77047 713-770-5100 www.basspro.com Sri Meenakshi Temple - Prevails as the third Hindu temple built in the United States since the 1970s, the peak of the Hindu immigrant settlement in the United States of America. This temple is dedicated to Goddess Meenakshi, the only temple for the Goddess off the shores of India. 17130 McLean Rd Pearland, TX 77584 www.emeenakshi.org Golf Courses - The city is home to four challenging golf courses, most notably the recently renovated Golfcrest Country Club, site of an annual National Golf Association’s Hooter’s Golf Tour and rated one of the Top 10 Toughest Golf Courses in the area by the Houston Business Journal. Other course include Country Place Golf Club, Southwyck Golf Club and Clear Creek Golf Course.
Whether you are visiting for the day, a week or a lifetime, Pearland boasts more than 100 restaurants that will excite HYHQ WKH PRVW UHĂ€QHG WDVWH EXGV 6R DIWHU D ORQJ GD\ RI checking out the sights, settle down for a nice comfortable meal in a friendly, relaxed atmosphere. Pearland is proud to offer a diverse shopping experience. Bass 3UR 6KRSV 3HDUODQG 7RZQ &HQWHU DQG KXQGUHGV RI XQLTXH ERXWLTXHV SURYLGH HYHQ WKH PRVW GLVFULPLQDWLQJ VKRSSHU DQ exceptional time.
LODGING When your day is done, Pearland is your home away from home. Pearland has eleven hotels all less than 15 years old operated by friendly, professional staff whose goal is to make your stay enjoyable. Pearland has lodging facilities for everyone’s needs. Hotels include a full complement of amenities based on the needs of the traveler – from full service to budget friendly hotels, Pearland has the accommodations for you. Give Pearland the opportunity to welcome you with open arms and a friendly smile. Whether you are travelling alone or as a group, contact Visit Pearland.
CONTACT
Pearland Destination Marketing 6117 Broadway, Pearland, Texas 77581 877-485-PEAR www.VisitPearland.com
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The Victorian is a favorite destination for family vacations and reunions, military and class reunions, church retreats, or just an Island getaway for two…
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Enjoy these resort features • Bring Family & Friends for Reunions & Church Retreats • Plenty of Water Fun • Pool and Whirlpools • Play Tennis! • Variety of decor & floor plans • Flex Your Abs in Our Fitness Center Need to stay connected, The Victorian has Free Wi-Fi for its guests… y need to just escape being connected, or if you we are just steps from the beach. Located within walking distance to beach restaurants, shopping centers and Galveston Island Convention Center. Our Group Sales staff will assist you reun with reunions, church retreats, and weddings. G to t our website and check out our Go 10,000 sq. ft. meeting facilities. Check Out Special Offers on our New Website!
6300 Seawall • Galveston • TX • victoriancondo.com 51
www.facebook.com/galvestonvictorian • 888. 598.4295
Times are tough but we want to make it a little easier to take your family to some special places. We are proud to highlight some of our favorite places to play, stay, eat & shop.
East Texas Tourism Association P.O. Box 150065 Longview, Texas 75615