Northeast Texas might not be the first place people think of when considering travel destinations. From Dallas to Texarkana, it contains a concentration of urban areas that might deter the outdoor enthusiast, and paradoxically some of the most convoluted road systems in the state. However, such observations would be only skin deep. Northeast Texas is an ideal locale for the thrifty vacationer, and it abounds with attractions for people of all ages and interests.
If you are near Dallas from April 9 to May 30, you should sprint by this popular attraction. Take a trip back in time to the days of the Renaissance, sampling the many delights of the era. From scrumptious whole turkey legs to hand-crafted tankards of mead and root beer, your palate will find something to please. Dozens of period shops provide one-of-a-kind crafts. Kids and adults will be amused by the varied costumes and performances.
Northeast Texas has some notable family zoos and museums, some tailored specifically for children. The Northeast Texas Children's Museum, just northeast of Dallas in Commerce, hosts a number of kid-centric activities and exhibits ranging from Ancient Egypt to the Space Shuttle. The Dallas Zoo is another great place for family fun. It has some of the most realistic habitats in the state and a sprawling, well-shaded environment that covers exhibits from the wilds of Africa to a petting zoo.
If you are interested in camping or fishing, Northeast Texas has a number of small, well-wooded lakes that will not fail to please. The water has great visibility and fishing possibilities from crappie to largemouth bass. The waters are warm enough to swim in most of the year, and there are great tubing and water skiing areas as well. Lake Tyler, named after the town, nearby is but one of many that offer campsites. Possum Kingdom Lake and Cedar Creek Reservoir are all within a short drive of Dallas.
Northeast Texas hosts a number of anime conventions, including one of the largest in the U.S., A-Kon.
Anime conventions are gatherings of people who celebrate the Japanese culture in cartoons and may not seem like an obvious family vacation activity, but they are a surprising delight to young and old. Many of the participants dress as characters from cartoons, movies and video games, so a camera is a must-take accessory. In addition to the costumes, you can experience many interesting aspects of Japanese culture including food, entertainment and shopping.
