Category: History & Culture

historic sites and stories in and around Palestine, TX

3 Special Reasons to Fit in One Last Summer Getaway to Palestine, TX

Though Palestine, Texas be but little, she is fierce and packed with loads of adventures. Known for its epic expanse of dogwoods, its more than 1,800 historic structures and the Texas State Railroad, Palestine throws it back to a simpler time. But you won’t be denied modern pleasures. Stellar food and drink and charming accommodations make this timeless Texas getaway a fabulous escape for any occasion, especially if you’re looking to sneak in one last summer vacation.

Texas State Railroad

Y’all aboard! Palestine is home to the one-of-a-kind Texas State Railroad, where a 1920s steam and diesel locomotive takes you on what feels like a trip back in time. It’s a great summer send-off before the kids return to school. Experience the nostalgia and romance of rail travel on the Piney Woods Express diesel excursion. Board at the Palestine depot, and travel 1 hour and 20 minutes to Rusk, where you’ll break for lunch and shopping before heading back to Palestine. As the train chugga-chuggas through pristine pine forests, take in relaxing, scenic views. Friendly attendants make your journey even more comfortable as you glide along in this bygone form of travel.

The late summer and early fall bring special events like Pints in the Pines, an adult-only evening excursion with samples of local and regional beers, as well as gourmet appetizers. A catered sunset dinner awaits passengers at the Rusk Depot. Enjoy a final tasting on the return trip, along with laughs and conversation. For a memorable date night or girls night out, book tickets for the Piney Woods Dinner Train, complete with a champagne toast and catered lakefront dinner on the grounds of the Rusk Depot.

Select from seven different seating options to fit your taste and budget. This popular attraction is one of the most fascinating ways to see the heart of the Piney Woods in the Lone Star State.

Raise a Glass on the Patio

Before the fall rat race resumes (we’re talking to you, parents!), save time to sip local brews and wines amid Palestine’s tranquil beauty. At the famed Pint and Barrel Drafthouse in Old Town Palestine, wash down a delicious green grilled cheese with a wide variety of craft beers on tap. Enjoy the outdoor patio, where there is always an activity – from live music and regular open mic and trivia nights to classic movies.

For a full-on escape, head to the reservation-only Sabor a Pasion Estate & Vineyard, a chef-created bed-and-breakfast, restaurant, and event venue located just five minutes from town. Book a weekend stay in one of the property’s quaint cabins or estate bedrooms, each beautifully arranged. Taste the talents of chef Simon Webster at the delectable Restaurant Aubergine, where a regularly changing menu deploys local ingredients, including herbs and veggies grown on site.

Historical Sightseeing

Strip malls might dominate much of America’s visual landscape, but in Palestine, more than 1,800 historic churches, houses, buildings, monuments, and cemeteries show its commitment to preservation. A trip to Palestine isn’t complete without a close look at its many architectural gems. 

Pick up self-guided tour info at the Palestine Visitors Center, located in a restored 1906 railroad depot at one end of Main Street. At the other end, spot the Anderson County Courthouse, a grand Beaux-arts structure completed in 1914. Take your time exploring 44 blocks of legacy-rich downtown buildings that are now home to numerous retail shops and restaurants. 

Discover more about the history of Palestine at sites like the 1914 Carnegie Library (now the City of Palestine’s public library once again), and the Gothic Revival Mt. Vernon A.M.E. Church (erected in 1921). Or, if you’re up for a driving tour, Palestine has two historic districts that have a full driving tour of homes and landmarks along the way. Stop by the Palestine Visitor Center to pick up a map and tour information.

Finally, be sure to experience the legends and lore of an authentic western jail at Palestine’s Texas Jailhouse, home to special holiday events, including Locked in Fear, a haunted jailhouse experience in October and the Grinch’s Lair during November & December.

Conclusion

In Palestine, you’ll find a wide variety of places to stay that are as quaint and unique as the town itself. Opt for a nearby tranquil ranch, a cozy cottage or a brand hotel in the heart of town, or a modern RV park surrounded by the sounds of nature. Visit Palestine to plan your trip today!

12 things to do in Downtown Palestine, TX

Planning a trip to Palestine TX? Whether it’s for one fun day, a long leisurely weekend, or an exciting extended getaway, we’ve got you covered with the best things to do in Historic Main Street Palestine. From history buffs and art lovers to foodies and antique collectors, there is a great attraction waiting for you to check out for yourself!

Read on to find out more about our hottest picks for Historic Main Street in Palestine, TX.

Take a Free Downtown Walking Tour

Stroll Historic Main Street at your own pace on a self-guided downtown walking tour. You’ll be amazed at the antique, restored buildings, dating as far back as 1878, and the unique architectural styles accompanying them. Discover more about the history of Palestine in a unique storytelling form. Learn all about these classic buildings and the interesting lives of the people who once inhabited them.

Extending from Sycamore St. to Queen St. and Spring St. to Crawford, this walking tour covers a remarkable and essential area of the downtown central business district and now a designated National Historic Landmark. The compact area of the tour makes it possible for families of all ages to join in on the experience and take in a little history along the way.

For even more ease and convenience, you can navigate this district by picking up a downtown walking tour map at the Palestine Visitors Center, located inside of a 120+ year-old restored railroad depot, launching the Historic Downtown Walking Tour Guide.

Made for Art Lovers

Artwork around every corner makes exploring Historic Main Street in Palestine magical! Designed by sculptors across the state of Texas, Art Tracks is a vibrantly colorful, festive, and imaginative project beautifying the city and capturing audiences with each passing stroll.  With 25 displays scattered throughout the district, native artist Jeffie Brewer has a collection of 13 different playful and modern sculptures adding playfulness, whimsy, and a pop of color.  

For even more inspired and interactive public art, Palestine Main Street is home to more than 18 unique murals (and counting). Go on a self-guided Palestine Mural Tour for Instagrammable photo-ops with large-scale, outdoor, and hand-painted murals. These outstanding art murals come in a variety of creative styles including wildstyle graffiti, abstract realism, and vintage logo signage.  

For an indoor glimpse into the Palestine art world, The Gallery at the Redlands is a great place to start. For both appreciation and for purchase, art lovers will find an eclectic collection of works by a myriad of talented artists. This treasured Palestine gallery lives on the ground floor of the historic Redlands Hotel. The assortment of art pieces by local and regional craftsmen, including sculptures, paintings, sketches, and functional ware, make it one of the hottest picks for art lovers to explore on their visit.

Carnegie Library in Palestine Texas

Get Your Entertainment On

Dive into entertainment to get a true Historic Palestine Main Street experience! Have an unforgettable night out on the town by catching a live show at the famous Texas Theatre. Watch as actors take the stage in one of the many incredible performances held throughout the year. Showcased in a stunning Spanish colonial architectural style, complete with dramatic facade embellishments and accompanied by a restored glowing marquee sign, this special historic theatre opened in 1917 and designed exclusively for Vaudeville performances. It even featured a live organ for playing music during silent pictures.

Later in its history, it experienced many change-of-hands and two unexpected fires, bouncing shows back-and-forth from movie theater to live stage performances. Today, it’s exclusively used for live shows, so be sure to take your seat among the many excited spectators and get ready for a dazzling and marvelous production!

Like to let your imagination run wild? The Carnegie Library has reopened its doors as the newly restored, public library returning after a 40+ year hiatus as it outgrew the beautiful nationally recognized attraction. Finally, back to its original 1914 home, its beautiful rejuvenation marks a new era for the town and welcomes visitors through its historic entry to meander the book stacks and enjoy family-friendly events held throughout the year.

Tantalize Your Tastebuds

Historic Main Street in Palestine serves up a versatile menu of dining options for any type of eater, from the pickiest to the most flexible foodie. Kick it up a notch at Hambone’s Cajun Grill with a selection of Louisiana-inspired surf and turf dishes, including blackened fish, fried frog legs, raw oysters, alligator bites, prime-cut steaks, and crawfish.

Go Antiquing

Whether you hold the oldest collection of rare coins in the country or you are simply intrigued by the past, Historic Main Street in Palestine has a plentiful selection of specialty stores selling vintage items and antique goods.

Named one of the hottest picks to go antiquing, not only does Duncan Depot Antiques sell authentic antiques, from classic furniture to vintage toys, but it is also located in an antique building. Nestled within the Studebaker/Lucas building, built in 1885 and remodeled in 1901, the original freight elevator is still in operation today.

Old Town Vintage & More features even more vintage goods and primitives, along with lovely local artisan fare, gourmet canned goods, and luxurious scrubs & bath seltzers. If your visit happens to land on one of their select class dates, be sure to try one of their creative group paint and craftwork sessions.

Experience Unique Shopping

Down-to-earth taste or posh preference? No matter your style, you’ll find what you’re looking for at Historic Main Street in Palestine. For hometown flavor, head to the Palestine Farmers Market for artisanal grassfed/grain finished meats, microgreens, fruity jams, genuine honey, savory pickles, and more handmade goodies by local farmers and craftsmen. Enjoy live music and even bring an instrument along with you to play in their acoustic jam session.

Try your hand at a real African recipe by taking a trip to Solid Rock African Market. This unique African goods store features rare and hard-to-find ingredients for skillfully executing authentic recipes. It also carries several genuine African garments and unusual accessories making your trip downtown more like you took one abroad.

Of course, your unique shopping experience doesn’t have to end there. Explore local boutiques for an incredible variety of styles and looks, ranging in chic “ooh la la” apparel, head-turning shoes, trendy jewelry, and true Texas western flair.

Your next awesome Texas vacation is waiting for you in Palestine and Historic Main Street has it all! With many great sights to see and even grander things to do, make Historic Main Street in Palestine a hot pick on your list of places to visit this season.