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Things to Do in Huntsville
From exploring secluded hiking trails and visiting the home of Texas Revolution war hero Sam Houston to scuba diving, there is no shortage of amazing things to do in Huntsville. Located just 70 miles north of Houston, Huntsville offers an endless amount of adventure while still retaining its inviting small-town charm. Read on to find out more.
Explore Huntsville State Park
Hike along scenic trails shaded by magnificent pine trees, try your luck at snaring bass and catfish from tranquil fishing piers, and rent a canoe to paddle on the gentle tides of Lake Raven. These, and many more, adventures await at Huntsville State Park, a vast oasis situated about 10 miles south of downtown Huntsville. With 21 miles of hiking and biking trails to roam, opportunities abound for birding and wildlife watching, or simply losing yourself in the woods. Venture near the water and you might see an alligator, many of which live in the park.
Once the sun sets, pitch a tent in one of the 160 campsites, some of which have water, water and electricity, or water, electricity, and sewer access. To get in some “glamping,” reserve one of the two enclosed shelters with air conditioning and heat, and electricity.
Visit General Sam Houston’s Homestead
Towards the end of his life, Sam Houston lived on a bucolic stretch of land near present-day Huntsville. Today, Houston’s homestead is now the Sam Houston Memorial Museum, a 15-acre complex that includes restored historic buildings and other exhibits. Wander through the museum to learn more about Houston’s life and to get a first-hand look at what life was like in Texas’ early years. Don’t miss the living history demonstrations every Saturday during the fall and spring, and on Wednesdays in the summer.
Tour Oakwood Cemetery
Houston was laid to rest at Oakwood Cemetery, a true piece of Texas history. His grave is marked by a memorial depicting him riding into battle on horseback, a sculpture crafted by celebrated artist Pompeo Coppini in 1911. Yet that’s not all you’ll find here. Check out The Christus Statue, a full-size replica of Bertel Thorvaldsen’s famed “Christus” that is considered one of the world’s most beautiful sculptures of Jesus Christ. Other prominent Texans are buried in the cemetery as well, including Joshua Houston (Houston’s slave who became a successful businessman after he was freed) and Pleasant Williams Kittrell (writer of the bill to establish the University of Texas).
Check Out Huntsville’s Museums
If all of this isn’t enough history for you, spend some time browsing the other museums in Huntsville. Start at the Texas Prison Museum, where you’ll get a first-hand look at the operations behind the walls of Texas’ first state prison. Then stop by The HEARTS Veterans Museum of Texas to see memorabilia and weapons from America’s major military conflicts and hear stories from veterans who served our country. To indulge your love of art, find your way to The Wynne Home Arts Center, which displays works by artists from around the state year-round.
Of course, no visit to Huntsville is complete without stopping by the 67-foot-tall statue of Sam Houston that you may have seen driving into town on I-45. The statue, the tallest of its kind in the country for an American hero, makes for a great photo-op.
Play a Round at Bearkat Course
With its rolling fairways and towering pines, a round at Bearkat Course is as much of a treat for the senses as it is a compelling afternoon of golf. The 18-hole public golf course in Huntsville features a championship layout with sand and water hazards and multiple tees, making it an accessible to everyone while providing enough of a challenge for advanced players. Your round ends at the 545-yard-long 18th hole, the longest on the course that rewards longer hitters while requiring plenty of finesse as you approach the green. Sink your final putt and recharge at The 19th Hole Lounge, the club’s on-site restaurant that serves cold and hot sandwiches, salads, wraps, and more.
Go Scuba Diving
Given its location in the southern end of the Texas Piney Woods, Huntsville is probably the last place you’d expect to be able to go scuba diving. Nevertheless, that’s exactly what you can do at The Blue Lagoon. A Professional Association of Diving Instructors-certified facility, The Blue Lagoon is one of the best places to learn how to scuba dive in Texas. If you’re a certified scuba diver, you can rent all the gear you need and explore the lagoon’s crystal-clear depths.
Not a scuba diver? You can still swim and play in the lagoon’s warm waters. Only a certain number of people are admitted at one time on the weekends, so make sure to arrive early to avoid the lines.
Wine Down
Amidst the serene beauty of East Texas lies a well-kept secret: its flourishing wine scene. We invite you to explore the charm of East Texas wineries, where every sip tells a story of passion and dedication.
As you traverse the winding roads that meander through the piney woods, you'll encounter a tapestry of vineyards, each with its own unique personality. From family-owned estates steeped in tradition to boutique wineries pushing the boundaries of innovation, there's something for every palate.
But it's not just about the wine – it's about the experience. Engage with passionate winemakers who pour their hearts into every bottle, eager to share their craft with visitors from near and far. Indulge in guided tastings that take you on a journey through the flavors of the region, from crisp whites to robust reds and everything in between.
So, whether you're a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply seeking a serene escape in nature's embrace, the wineries of East Texas' Piney Woods promise an unforgettable adventure.
Enjoy a Show at Old Town Theatre
The Friends of Old Town Theatre project was first organized in 1997 as a community non-profit, dedicated to the restoration and reopening of Huntsville's Old Town Theatre on the downtown square. The building had served in its earliest years as a downtown movie theater. Today, the theater hosts music performances, dramatic and musical theater, dance, film and community events. The Friends of Old Town Theatre are proud to offer the theatre to the community as a downtown venue for the arts, and they welcome everyone to join them as they continue to provide quality entertainment and education in the arts.
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