Longview, Texas is a vibrant city located in the East Texas region.
Longview was founded as a stop on the Texas and Pacific Railroad.
The city rapidly developed due to the booming lumber industry; by 1930 it was one of the largest cities in East Texas.
Today, Longview is home to some amazing attractions, including the Longview Museum of Fine Arts and the Gregg County Historical Museum.
In addition to its many museums and historical sites, Longview also offers a variety of shopping and dining options, as well as a number of parks and recreation areas.
Longview is also known as the “The Balloon Capital of Texas” and hosts the famous Great Texas Balloon Race.
Best Things to do in Longview, TX
If you’re looking for a historic city with a small-town feel, then Longview, Texas is the place for you!
Founded in the early 1800s, Longview has a rich history that is evident in its architecture and cultural offerings.
The city is also home to a number of parks and outdoor recreation areas, making it the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of nature.
Here are our favorite things to do in Longview, Texas.
Longview World of Wonders
One of the most fun things to do in Longview TX for families!
Longview World of Wonders is a children’s museum in Longview, Texas that aims to educate and entertain kids of all ages.
The museum has a wide variety of exhibits, including a hands-on gardening area, train tracks tables, Legos and blocks of all sizes, and a giant chess board.
Kids can also explore a grocery store, hardware store, and a garage.
Longview World of Wonders is a great place to explore, learn, and have fun!
The museum is located at 112 E Tyler St. Longview, TX.
Longview Museum of Fine Arts
The Longview Museum of Fine Arts is a hidden gem in the heart of East Texas.
Housed in a beautiful building, the art museum features works by talented local and international artists.
The museum collection includes paintings, sculpture, and other works of art and is a wonderful venue for art lovers in East Texas.
Gregg County Historical Museum
The Gregg County Historical Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in the history of Longview, Texas.
The museum is housed in an old ornate bank building that was the sight of the infamous Dalton Gang robbery.
The museum has an extensive collection of photographs, documents, and artifacts that date back hundreds of years.
Visitors can view exhibits on the city’s history, its early growth and development, and its rich culture and heritage.
The museum also features WWI and WWII military weapons collection, model train exhibit, Caddo Indian pottery recovered from East Texas, an early settlers’ cabin, and more.
Great Texas Balloon Race
The Great Texas Balloon Race is an annual event that takes place in Longview, Texas.
The event features hot air balloons of all shapes and sizes, and attracts spectators from all over the state.
The race is held in June, when the weather is perfect for ballooning.
During the race, the balloons take off from a field near downtown Longview and float across the sky, eventually landing in a nearby park.
The race is a great opportunity to see some amazing ballooning feats, as well as to enjoy the beauty of Longview.
Longview Arboretum and Nature Center
The Longview Arboretum and Nature Center features beautiful gardens, hiking trails, and nature observing areas.
The arboretum features Zen Garden, water features such as waterfalls and streams, local flora and fauna, and more.
The Nature Center has a small gift shop filled with curios as well as a kids area where they can play, read, and make art.
The Longview Arboretum and Nature Center is the perfect place to enjoy the beauty of nature and learn about the ecology of East Texas.
Veterans Plaza and Vietnam Wall Replica
Located in the heart of Longview, Texas in Teague Park, you will find the Veterans Plaza and Vietnam Wall Replica.
This moving tribute to the brave men and women who have served our country is one of the top attractions in Longview.
The plaza features a miniature replica of the Vietnam Wall and has plaques narrating about different wars and conflicts, prisoners of war, and other aspects.
The plaza is surrounded by beautifully landscaped gardens as well as a pond with ducks and is open daily from dawn to dusk.
Greggton Antique Mall
Greggton Antique Mall is a great place to find unique gifts, vintage items, and one-of-a-kind pieces.
You can find everything from vintage furniture to estate jewelry to rare coins and collectibles such as vinyl records, antique dolls, and trains.
The mall is also home to a separate military museum that has guns, uniforms, and more on display.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or just getting started, a visit to the Greggton Antique Mall is sure to be an enjoyable experience.
You can find the mall at 3422 W Marshall Ave Longview, TX.
Carmela’s Magical Santa Land Drive-Thru Holiday Lights
Carmela’s Magical Santa Land Drive-Thru Holiday Lights is a must-see event for families in the Longview, Texas area.
This festive drive-thru light display features over a mile of holiday lights, as well as several larger-than-life displays.
Visitors are amazed by the life-size nutcrackers, gingerbread men, and Santa Claus himself.
And be sure to keep an eye out for the reindeer!
Carmela’s Magical Santa Land Drive-Thru Holiday Lights is the perfect way to get into the holiday spirit and is one of the best things to do in Texas for Christmas.
Kidsview Play Area
Kidsview Play Area, located in Lear Park, is a great place for kids to play and explore.
It has a variety of features that appeal to children of all ages, including a playground, a splash pad, and a picnic area.
The playground has several slides and climbing structures, as well as a sandbox and swings.
The splash pad is perfect for hot days, and the picnic area is perfect for enjoying a meal with the family.
Kidsview Play Area is also surrounded by beautiful trees and flowers, making it a lovely place to spend time outdoors.
Lear Park
Lear Park is a recreational oasis in the heart of Longview, Texas.
The park features a wide variety of amenities apart from the play area.
It features a fishing pier, baseball field, softball field, and hiking trails that wind through towering trees and lush vegetation.
Lear Park is also a popular destination for picnics and parties, thanks to its spacious pavilion and grilling areas.
Whether you’re looking to enjoy a round of golf or simply take a leisurely stroll, Lear Park is the perfect place to spend an afternoon.
The park is located at 100 HG Mosley Parkway, Longview, TX.
Air U
Air U is a state of the art indoor trampoline park that’s a hit with kids of all ages.
It is the perfect place to get your energy out!
They have tons of different activities to keep you entertained for hours on end.
Their main focus is, of course, their numerous trampolines!
They have plenty of space for freestyle jumping as well as foam pits, obstacle course, dodgeball, and climbing areas.
If you need a break from all the jumping, they also have an observation deck.
Air U is also perfect if you want to host a private party for birthdays and other occasions.
Paul D. Boorman Trail
The Paul D. Boorman Trail is a beautiful and serene spot located in Longview, Texas.
The 3 mile trail is perfect for a leisurely stroll or hike, and offers stunning views of the surrounding area.
The northern trailhead is located off Loop 281 on Summers Drive, Longview, TX.
The trail is well-marked and easy to follow, and there are plenty of benches along the way where you can stop to rest or take in the view.
The trail passes through Lois Jackson Park which is popular for its play areas as well as has two dog parks.
Along the way, you’ll get to see some beautiful wildflowers, listen to the birds singing in the trees, and maybe even catch a glimpse of some deer or other wildlife.
The Paul D. Boorman Trail is a great way to get some fresh air and exercise in Longview, Texas.
Also Read: Best hiking trails in East Texas
Oil Horse Brewing Company
Oil Horse Brewing Company is a local brewery in Longview, Texas that specializes in small-batch, hand-crafted beers.
The brewery is famous for its gluten free beers.
The beer list features a variety of styles, including IPAs, stouts, ales, and sours.
Oil Horse Brewing Company is the perfect place to relax with friends, enjoy a few beers, and experience some of the best that Longview has to offer.
The Belcher Center
The Belcher Center, located on the LeTourneau University campus, is a performing arts venue located in Longview, Texas.
The center is home to the Longview Symphony Orchestra, the Longview Opera Theater, and the Longview Ballet Theatre.
The Belcher Center also hosts a variety of musicals, concerts, and theatrical performances throughout the year.
Oil Bowl Lanes
Oil Bowl Lanes in Longview, Texas is a great place to enjoy a game of bowling.
They have everything you need to enjoy a great game of bowling, including lane rental, shoe rental, and ball rental at the Oil Bowl Pro Shop.
They also have a full-service bar and grill, so you can refuel after your game.
The bowling alley is clean and well-maintained, and the prices are reasonable.
This is a great place to bowl if you are looking for a fun, family-friendly environment.
Play mini golf at Putt-Putt Golf & Games
If you’re looking for a fun activity in Longview, Texas, putt-putt golf is a great family entertainment center.
Putt-Putt Golf & Games offers two 18-hole courses that are perfect for challenged beginners and experienced players alike.
The courses are well-maintained and offer a variety of obstacles to keep things interesting.
Longview, Texas is a great place to visit due to its historical landmarks, museums, shopping, fine dining, and other urban attractions.
In addition, Longview is home to a number of parks and outdoor spaces, making it the perfect place to enjoy some fresh air and beautiful scenery.
What is your favorite thing to do in Longview, Texas? Let us know below.