Note-Worthy Attractions in Tyler, TX

Tyler is known as the Rose Capital of America, but that’s not the only attraction in this beautiful Texas town. From its natural landscapes, wildlife, and parks, to its museums, breweries and wineries, you can easily fill a weekend or more exploring Tyler. We know how daunting visiting a new place can be, which is why we’ve compiled this list of top attractions in the area.

Even if you’re a Tyler local, you’re bound to find something fun to do on our list. To see some of these attractions that are a bit further afield, you’ll need a set of reliable wheels to get you around. Pay a visit to Mercedes-Benz of Tyler to see the quality new and used vehicles for sale. Or consider leasing a car under one of the great lease programs. Once you’ve gotten your new car, it’s time to hit the road and head to one of the following Tyler attractions.

Tyler Municipal Rose Garden

A visit to America’s Rose Capital wouldn’t be complete without a trip to Tyler’s 14-acre Municipal Rose Garden, which features over 35,000 rose bushes in 500 varieties. The best thing about this garden? Admission is totally free, and they’re open from dawn to dusk every single day. Peak blooming periods are in October and late May, so plan your visit accordingly.

Caldwell Zoo

The 85-acre Caldwell Zoo hosts nearly 3,500 animals in its enclosures, including exotic species such as tigers, elephants, and cheetahs. Habitats are distinguished by areas of the world, featuring African savanna and South American jungles among others. We definitely recommend a visit to the large free-flight aviary, which features over 600 birds you can interact with. They often highlight newborn animals online, so visit their website to see what’s new.

Tyler State Park

For the outdoorsy-types, Tyler State Park is a beacon of east Texas nature. There are over 13 miles of hiking trails in this park, which also features a 64-acre lake and historic buildings throughout. Activities include biking, hiking, boating, camping, bird watching, and picnicking. You can also join one of their ranger-led programs for greater detail on the natural and historical value of this park.

Kiepersol Estates Winery & Vineyard

For incredible scenery paired with delicious wines, head for Kiepersol Estates Winery & Vineyard. All of their wines are made from grapes grown right on the property. Their grapevines were planted in 1998 and 1999, and the vines are currently producing 16 varieties of grapes. Visit their Grand Room for wine and spirit tastings from 11 a.m. to 7 p.m. Tuesday-Saturday. You can also relax on their patio with a glass of your favorite, or bring your own picnic chairs and blankets and enjoy the views.

True Vine Brewing Company

Tyler’s very first brewery, True Vine Brewing Company, is another must-visit for adults who enjoy craft brews. They now have two locations, one on Earl Campbell Parkway and one at On the Square. From IPA to Blonde to Texas Honey Wheat, you’re bound to find something here to suit your preferences. On Fridays and Saturdays they host live music, so be sure to check them out on social media to see who’s playing.

East Texas Symphony Orchestra

Music lovers will be drawn to the East Texas Symphony Orchestra, based primarily at the R. Don Cowan Fine and Performing Arts Center at The University of Texas at Tyler. They offer regular performances here, as well as special programs around town, including Caldwell Auditorium, Liberty Hall, and on The Square in downtown. Upcoming concerts are listed on their calendar.

Cowan Center

In addition to hosting the East Texas Symphony Orchestra, the UT Tyler Cowan Center is East Texas’s place for Broadway shows, musicals, and other theatrical performances. Groups from all over, such as the Blue Man Group, Celtic Women, and others, have performed here. They even have kid-friendly events for the whole family. Be sure to check out their calendar and see if a performance lines up with your visit to Tyler.

Tyler Museum of Art

Bring a little culture and artistic beauty to your day by visiting the Tyler Museum of Art. Their mission is to enrich the lives of visitors through the celebration of the visual arts, which they do by collecting, preserving, studying, and exhibiting art. Currently home to over 800 pieces in their permanent collection, they also have rotating features which you can learn about in advance on their website. Visits are free for children ages 12 and under, and just $5 for adults.

McClendon House

Learn about the history of Tyler while viewing historic artifacts at the Bonner-Whitaker McClendon House, built in 1878 and designated as a historic landmark in 1984. You can explore this Victorian mansion on a house tour, offered Friday and Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The home can also be booked for a murder mystery party for groups of 20 or more.

The other historic house available to tour in Tyler is the 1859 Goodman-Le-Grand House and Museum. Admission is free (a donation is suggested), and the expansive gardens are also worth a stroll.

Discovery Science Place

If you have young ones with you, one of the best places to entertain them in Tyler is the Discovery Science Place. Their mission is to ignite curiosity in young minds, and they do this by providing fun, hands-on activities for kids of all ages. Their 15-plus exhibits are all about science, including an imagination playground, train set, space station, and more.

Enjoy Your Visit to Tyler

Has this list inspired you to explore the Rose Capital of America? We hope so. Whether you’re planning a quick trip to Tyler or you’re a long-time resident, this list definitely has something fun for you. Don’t forget to check venue websites for seasonal and regular events and shows.

If we missed your favorite attraction in town, let us know. We’re always ready to update our recommendations with local insight. We hope to see you at Mercedes-Benz of Tyler before you plan your next road trip!