Tyler, Texas--named after former President John Tyler--is a city within Smith County with a population of approximately 100,000. The city attracts thousands of tourists every year for the annual Texas Rose Festival. A hub for retirees, there are few nightclubs and entertainment venues that cater to party animals. Even so, there are some gems in the small town that offer high-quality Texas entertainment at convenient prices.
Electric Cowboy is a western-themed nightclub that often features live music from local bands. The 18 and older nightclub offers a variety of events, ranging from costume contests to all-night bar games. Guests can take advantage of the club's free dance lessons and happy hour drink specials. Dancers are encouraged to wear cowboy hats and western clothing, as well. The disc jockey plays a blend of hip hop, country, and pop songs for the diverse crowd.
Rick's on The Square is a restaurant and entertainment venue. The menu combines culinary masterpieces with local Texas cuisine. Customers can enjoy barbecued smoked shark tacos, along with Cajun escargot, for example. Rick's offers lunch and dinner options to guests on its wrap-around porch or in the private dining hall. Guests may choose to have Rick's cater any event on or off the premises, as well. The restaurant features a variety of music groups which specialize in western, blues, jazz, and classic rock throughout the week. Patrons are encouraged to lounge at the bar, or dance near grand piano. Happy hour specials are offered daily.
There are several quality attractions for visitors and locals to enjoy in Tyler, Texas. Families may visit the Caldwell Zoo on Martin Luther King Boulevard. The 85-acre park is home to more than 2000 animals from North and South American and Africa. The Discovery Science Place on Broadway Street features a bat cave, limestone cavern, and numerous dinosaur exhibits. The University of Texas at Tyler presents national and international arts and performance tours throughout the year.
