East Texas includes varied experiences for the tourist looking to break the mold of traditional vacations and getaways. Sandy beaches abound in East Texas, and historical sites and museums satisfy the inquisitive traveler's desires. Scenic drives and state parks melt the troubles away by placing their visitors in the middle of nature. East Texas tourism includes experiences for a wide range of tourists.
Texas does not drum up images of white, sandy beaches or pristine shores; however, East Texas is home to serene beaches that match the beauty of those located in traditional beach states such as Florida and California. The island town of Galveston has 32 miles of beaches on which to relax, sunbathe and play. And Galveston is not alone, because the historic town of Port Arthur also entices tourists with its seaside serenity. East Texas beaches delight tourists year after year.
East Texas' state parks gladden nature-minded tourists. The 3,026-acre Cooper Lake State Park offers activities such as fishing, camping, bird-watching and boating. The park spans into the boundaries of both Cooper, Texas and Sulphur Springs, Texas. Visitors to Martin Creek Lake State Park attend the annual kid's perch fishing contest or take a swim in the lake. Mission Tejas State Park's tourists enjoy an up-close view of aquatic life and fish in the park's pond. The state parks appeal to their visitors' senses of adventure.
The natural beauty and tranquility of the scenic drives in East Texas attract visitors to the area in search of a peaceful cruise through nature. Many of these nature-seekers drive to Alto, Texas for the chance to take a drive on El Camino Real. El Camino Real is named as a national historic trail and boasts scenes of forests, hills and streams. The scenic trail also runs through other Texas towns such as San Antonio, Bastrop, Crockett, Alto, Nacogdoches and San Augustine.
Inquisitive minds enjoy East Texas' museums. Mount Vernon, Texas houses museums such as the Alamo Mission Museum and the Old Jail Art Museum. In Plano, the Heard Natural Science Museum and Wildlife Sanctuary entertains visitors with wildlife, Native American artifacts, rocks, minerals and seashells. The Interurban Museum, also in Plano, educates its patrons about the Texas Electric Railway free of charge. The museums in East Texas captivate the minds and imaginations of their visitors.
History buffs appreciate the historical sites conveniently situated in East Texas. Port Arthur is home to a Civil War battlefield, while San Augustine is a Texas town that dates its origin back to the days of the Native Americans. In Addition, San Augustine possesses 70 historical markers, six of which are listed in the National Register of Historic Places. San Augustine visitors are also delighted to view the homes of patriots and pioneers of the Texas Republic. East Texas' rich history satiates the historical appetites of tourists year-round.
