Tyler
Roses bloom and tigers loom in a fertile Lone Star landscape
This city 100 miles east of Dallas is best known for its brilliant blooms. Indeed, the lush landscapes and fertile soil of East Texas have led many to call Tyler the “Rose Capital of America,” and countless gardens throughout town showcase the local symbol. But there’s more to Tyler than fragrant blossoms. An outstanding zoo, flavorful wines and historic sites keep visitors busy throughout the year.
Pretty Petals
In the center of town, the Tyler Rose Garden Center is a public park that’s adorned with more than 38,000 rose bushes planted across 14 acres and accented with fountains, gazebos and walking paths. Many of these famous flowers are harvested and ornately affixed to floats each year as part of the Texas Rose Festival and Rose Parade each fall, introducing the crowds to the year’s festival queen and her court.
Wilder things grow and thrive in Caldwell Zoo, home to more than 3,400 animals in natural exhibits designed to both engage the residents and entertain and educate their human visitors. Within the zoo, Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge focuses its education and conservation efforts on rescued big cats. The refuge is also home to leopards, lions and panthers. Guided walking tours are available.
Tyler CVB
Take in the Outdoors
Nearby Tyler State Park is the ideal place for folks to stretch their legs and run wild in the outdoors. Fun-loving family members can take advantage of swimming and fishing in the 64-acre spring-fed lake. Stroll through dense forests on the Whispering Pines Nature Trail and take your binoculars out for bird-watching.
Toast to the verdant fields of Smith County at Kiepersol Estates Winery. The proprietors offer guests an opportunity to take a self-guided one-mile tour through the vineyard before tasting wine made from one or more of 14 red and white varietals. A distillery on-site produces spirits that form the foundation of several unique cocktails served up by the winery at its on-site bar and restaurant.
Foster a Love of Learning
Keep kids occupied with attractions that are both fun and educational. Learn the secrets of the known universe at Discovery Science Place, where exhibits teach visitors about prehistoric life, physics, robotics and space travel.
Flights of fancy take to the air at the Historic Aviation Memorial Museum. This attraction is housed in the decommissioned passenger terminal building of a closed airport and features an outside display of restored vintage aircraft. Come peruse the F-104A Starfighter, F-4D Phantom II, F-100 Super Sabre and others. Inside, you’ll discover a multimedia theater room with a gift shop and café.
For More Information
Tyler Convention and Visitors Bureau
800-235-5712
www.visittyler.com
Texas Office of the Governor, Economic Development and Tourism
512-463-2000
www.traveltex.com
