Attractions in Palestine

A thriving food scene, rich history, and beautiful scenery make Palestine a Texas tourist’s dream. You’ll find plenty of local haunts, both old and new, to entertain, captivate, or satisfy your hunger for a delicious meal. Check out the following list of a few of the top attractions in Palestine and plan your next adventure to this charming East Texas town.

Anderson County Courthouse
Built in 1914, the current courthouse is actually Anderson County’s fourth (after fire destroyed the third in 1913). A stunning example of beaux-arts architecture, the building features a double-spiral staircase and a rotunda crowned with a stained-glass montage in the dome. The courthouse is open to the public Monday through Friday during normal business hours.
100 South Main Street
(864) 260-4000

Anderson County Jail
Also known as the Texas Jail House, the old Anderson County Jail was built in 1931 and housed lawbreakers for nearly 55 years. Today, the art-deco style building is a Nationally Registered Historic Place that welcomes mild-mannered citizens for tours and special events, from October’s “Locked in Fear” Haunted House to the “Grinch’s Lair” Whoville makeover in December.
704 Avenue A Street
Palestine, TX 75801
(903) 373-8158 

Art Tracks Sculpture Exhibit
This unique juried outdoor art exhibit includes rotated pieces designed by artists from all over Texas that can be found at prominent locations around Main Street. Explore downtown Palestine during the exhibit and you’ll find as many as 20 large sculptures.
Downtown
Palestine, TX 75801
(903) 723-3014

Bralys Ace Hardware
What makes Bralys the “coolest hardware store on the planet?” Start with its building, a reworked elementary school built in 1938. Add grilling demos, chalk paint workshops, and everything Texans need for work or play - from tools and Yeti coolers to deer corn - and you’ll see why tours stop by here on their way around town.
420 West Palestine Avenue
Palestine, TX 75801
(903) 723-2179

Davey Dogwood Park
The site of the famous Dogwood Trails Celebration, Davey Dogwood Park is in the running for prettiest spot in Texas when its eponymous flowers are in bloom. Across its 200 acres, you can take advantage of more than five miles of picturesque roads to drive, walk, jog, or bike, and picnic areas are available near the entrance and center of the park.
900 North Link St.
Palestine, TX 75801
(903) 731-8435

Queen St Grille
From a daily lunch and dinner menu that will light up your taste buds to specialty evenings with perfectly paired wine and whiskey, Queen St Grille always has an excellent set of menu options.  This casual fine-dining hot spot is located inside the Historic Redlands Hotel which also houses a spa, art gallery, and boutique.  
400 North Queen Street
Palestine, TX 75801
(903) 723-2404

Sabor A Pasion Estate and Vineyard
Palestine is becoming known as a foodie’s paradise, and Sabor A Pasion is a big reason for that. A restaurant, vineyard, bed and breakfast, event center, and wedding venue all rolled into one, the estate is the “passion” of classically trained chef-owner Simon Webster. Savor signature items like wood-fired pizza, lamb chops, and New Zealand Pavlova. Stay in comfortable individual cabins that provide a serene escape from the city. By all accounts, Chef Webster is as gracious a host as he is skilled at cooking. 
110 An County Road 406
Palestine, TX 75803
(903) 729-9500

Texas State Railroad
Take a ride on the Official Railroad of Texas, one of the most fun things to do in East Texas for kids of all ages! Established in the late 19th century, the Texas State Railroad offers trips through the lovely Piney Woods region with various seating classes available. It’s also home to a number of special events throughout the year, including the famous Polar ExpressTrain Ride in December, a magical trip to the North Pole with hot chocolate, storytelling, and Christmas caroling.
Park Road 70
Palestine, TX 75801
(877) 726-7245

The Texas Theatre
Since opening its doors in 1930, the historic Texas Theatre has become part of the lifeblood of Palestine, surviving two fires and multiple closings over the years. Today it is the venue for a variety of family entertainment starring local talent through the Palestine Community Theatre. Catch a hilarious comedy or moving drama and see why the theater is known as “the crown jewel of downtown Palestine.”
213 West Crawford Street
Palestine, TX 75801
(903) 723-9595