Gainesville, Texas Travel Guide

Region: Prairies and Lakes

Lying just south of the Texas-Oklahoma border, Gainseville is often noted for its Victorian architecture, a reminder of the cattle and cotton fortunes made here in the mid-1800s. The town is also home to Lake Texoma, which offers camping, picnicking and fishing.

Attractions

Lake Texoma. This huge lake is a weekend capital for outdoorsy Metroplexers. It offers every kind of watersports imaginable in the region plus plenty for landlubbers, too, including two wildlife refuges, two state parks, and hundreds of campgrounds. Bald eagle watching is popular during cooler months. http://www.laketexomaonline.com

Leonard Park. Picnicking and play areas are available at this 30-acre park. Located at 1000 W. California.

Frank Buck Zoo. Located within Leonard park, this zoo features exotic species.

Morton Museum of Cooke County. This local history museum in a restored firehouse has exhibits ranging from frontier homestead items to agricultural tools used during the early days of Morton County. Special exhibits focus on pioneer days, Native Americans, and geology of the region. Located at 210 S. Dixon St.

Moss Lake. This lake is popular with anglers, but there are no picnic facilities.

Ray Roberts Lake State Park, Johnson Unit. Fishing, camping, boating, swimming and more are available at this state park. Located just east of I-35.

Festivals

July: Gainesville Area Annual Rodeo. Roping, riding and kids' events can be found at this festival held at the Gainesville Riding Club Arena.

Hotels

Booking Gainesville hotels

Dining

Fried Pie Company. Breakfast and lunch are served at this famous pie stop which also offers take out. Although deep-fried apricot sells the best, coconut cream is the owner's favorite. Located at 202 W. Main.

Map

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For More Information

Chamber of Commerce
PO Box 1022
Gainesville, TX 76240

Photo courtesy TX Dept of Economic Development, Tourism Division