Mother Nature always provides a breathtaking display of elegance when the Redbuds add a bright pop of magenta to the winter landscape in the parks and forests throughout the area and soon to follow is the native dogwood, opening as a small green bud and pillowing out into a white clover shaped blossom. Distinguished by their blossoms, berries, and distinctive bark the dogwood tree is known as a symbol of renewal and new beginnings. Stories, myths, and cultural references surrounding this flowering tree, abound. The arrival of Spring and Palestine, Texas is the place to witness the splendor of the dogwood in full bloom. Home to the Texas Dogwood Trails Celebration, this annual celebration takes place March 18-April 3 and offers many ways to honor this symbolic and captivating flowering tree.
Hop Aboard a Vintage Train Ride
Texas State Railroad in the Spring
Take a step back in time while being a passenger aboard the scenic Texas State Railroad, the official railroad of Texas. From the moment you step on-board one of the handsomely refurbished train cars, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported to a simpler, more leisurely time where the distractions and annoyances of our modern world suddenly disappear. Breathe deep, order a drink and relax as you lose yourself on a four-hour, 25-mile rail journey through the Piney Woods of East Texas where history is just part of the journey.
Davey Dogwood Park and the Hidden Fairy Garden Trails
Fairy Garden Trails in Davey Dogwood Park
The Texas Dogwood Trails were born in 1938 when 2 friends noticed the early blooms marking the arrival of spring in the area and wrote to the local newspaper to invite visitors to come look at the unique landscape in full bloom. Once the word got out, the following year 20,000 visitors came for the blooming season. A few years later, a local citizen dedicated an exceptional plot of Dogwood trees to creating a Davey Dogwood Park.
Today, this 254-acre park offers a multitude of ways to take in the beauty of the park. Cruise the 5.5 miles of driving trails. Or better yet, if you’re looking to fully immerse yourself in the captivating dogwood tree, there are over 8 miles of unincorporated hiking and biking trails as well as scenic views and picnic areas. Visit March 18- May 31 to see how many of the hidden fairy gardens you can find tucked away along the Fairy Garden Trail amongst these magical paths.
Jam out at the Old Time Music & Dulcimer Festival
Old Time Music photo by Dana Goolsby
No road trip would be complete without a soundtrack and a stop at the Old Time Music & Dulcimer Festival. Celebrating its 19th year in Palestine, this lively festival showcases musicians playing everything from mountain dulcimers to fiddles and autoharps. Running March 24-26th, you’ll see the finest dulcimer and old-time music artists in the country and even have a chance to jam with some of them! Not quite there yet? Just kick back and enjoy the variety of daily live performances, workshops, and opportunities to meet and visit with master musicians, at this one-of-a-kind musical spectacular.
Shop Historic Palestine
Unique shopping throughout Palestine Main Street
Palestine Texas boasts an award-winning main street that is perfect for retail therapy. Antique lovers, start with Star of Texas Antiques which is considered one of the most premier antique stores in Texas. You can’t go wrong at Duncan Depot Antiques which offers, “primitive to retro and most everything in between.” Browse, shop, and support unique businesses such as Braly’s Ace Hardware known as, “One of the Coolest Hardware Stores on the Planet.” Enjoy a cup of coffee and satisfy your thirst for everything unique at Wells Creek Crossing and Cream & Coffee, an eclectic shop featuring sculptural and painted art and unique finds from brand new to shabby chic and rustic to vintage. Enjoy the fabulous shops offered in this culturally rich and vibrant downtown area.
Named by Texas Highways Magazine as a Top 40 Travel Destination, Palestine has historical sites, arts and cultural events, architectural gems, festivals, outdoor fun, and nightlife—all with loads of East Texas charm. Spring is here and Palestine, Texas is a must for those of you that wish to soak up the beauty of the dogwood tree and say goodbye to winter. For a day or a whole weekend, a trip to Palestine promises fun and rejuvenation for all. See everything that the season offers at visitpalestine.com.
We’re seniors and my husband has some issue with his knee. and I have a titimum rod and several screws. We just finished 3 half mos in PT. Will it be a rough ride for us?
I am not sure which ride you are referring to, but the train rides are very smooth, like riding in a car. The driving trails in Davey Dogwood park are very nicely and newly paved, so they are like a traditional roadway as well.
Is the train wheel chair accessible?
Yes it is, just make sure to notify them when you book your tickets and they will seat you accordingly.
Are you going to have the car show
This year and if so what are the dates
The car show for this year will be in October on the 22nd. It will resume back in the Spring 2023 on March 18th.
Does the train have electric outlets by the seats for my husband to plug in his portable oxygen concentrator?
Beverly, you will need to call the Texas State Railroad for an accurate answer to this question. Their number is 855-632-7729.
Is there some sort of fairy garden display I heard about?
Yes, we have about 65 Fairy Gardens in display along a 1.2 mile trail in the center of Davey Dogwood Park. You will see signs as you drive into the park that lead you to the entrance.
How long does this run?
Through May 31, 2022 but they are designed to deteriorate over time, so the earlier the better!
We are going on April 7 and booked the train. Will the dogwoods still be in bloom by that time?
Yes, they should still be in bloom at that time, unless we get a really windy storm.
What is the address of the park and how do we book the train?
The park entrance is located at 4205 N Link Street.
To book the train, go to http://www.texasstaterailroad.net or call 855-632-7729.