Monday, April 29, 2024
(StatePoint) Crisp morning air and the subtle transition from green to yellow, orange and red announce autumn’s arrival in East Texas. While there are many ways to enjoy the season in Texas’s gorgeous Pineywoods region, Palestine is the perfect place to appreciate fall’s beauty.
To plan your getaway, check out these amazing autumn adventures in Palestine:
Leaf Peeping
Palestine is located in the Texas Forest Trail Region, where a kaleidoscope of colors is a featured attraction each November, offering an amazing backdrop for picnics, photo shoots and outdoor adventure.
Try your hand at alligator gar fishing or take a trip aboard the Texas State Railroad, the most relaxing way to enjoy the scenery. Explore Davey Dogwood Park, where 200 acres of forested land features miles of hard surface roads, hiking and biking trails and scenic views. Or, start in Palestine and take the Pineywoods Autumn Trail, a 145-mile road trip that includes historical markers sure to satisfy the whole family.
Colors typically peak the week of Thanksgiving, but Mother Nature often makes up new rules. It’s recommended to call ahead at 800-659-3484 or click here for the foliage update.
Spooky Fun
With a rich history spanning over 140 years, the Historic Bowers Mansion stands as a captivating testament to Palestine’s past. Behind its stunning façade lies a dark tale of a 1950s murder-suicide, accompanied by numerous mysterious deaths throughout the years. It’s believed by some that the spirits of those who took their last breath here still linger. Ghost hunt tickets are limited and available on a first-come-first-served basis. Book securely online, here.
For another spine-chilling adventure and the ultimate adrenaline rush, step into the eerie darkness of the Locked in Fear haunted house at the Texas Jailhouse. Brace yourself as you navigate a labyrinth of cells, isolation tanks and ominous halls, where fear and terror lurk around every corner. Occurring on Fridays and Saturdays from October 13 – 28, tickets are on sale at https://www.txjailhouse.com.
Get Ready to Sizzle
Brace yourself for the “Hottest Little Festival in Texas” happening in Historic Downtown Palestine. The Hot Pepper Festival has something for everyone. Indulge in delectable food, explore arts and crafts and immerse yourself in non-stop live music. Mark your calendar for Saturday, October 28, 2023, from 9 am to 6 pm. The grand parade will kick off at the Anderson County Courthouse on 500 N Church Street, proceed down Avenue A, Spring Street, Queen Street and Crawford Street, before making its way back to the courthouse.
Sip Locally
The recently opened Tahwahkaro Distilling Company is hosting tours and tastings, so tipplers can learn more about their award-winning whiskies. Made from locally-sourced Texas grains, and milled, mashed, fermented and distilled on-site, their whiskies are handcrafted from grain to glass. To learn more visit, https://tahwahkaro.com/.
You can also indulge in local brews and pub-style dining at Pint & Barrel Drafthouse. Nestled within the historic Palestine Electric Company constructed in the roaring 1920s, this extraordinary venue allows you to enjoy your hoppy IPAs, crips lagers and malty brown ales around a campfire.
Unforgettable Entertainment
Get ready to be blown away by “Arsenic & Old Lace,” at the Historic Texas Theatre. Written in 1939 by the bold American playwright Joseph Kesselring, this captivating production will transport you back in time. Follow Mortimer Brewster, a witty drama critic, who finds himself caught amidst his crazy, murderous family and the local police in Brooklyn, New York as he contemplates whether to keep his promise of marrying the love of his life, Elaine Harper, the daughter of the local minister. Mark your calendar for October 13-15 and Oct 20-22, 2023, and prepare to for suspense and excitement!
For more fall getaway inspiration, visit www.visitpalestine.com/fall.
One of Texas’s best small towns, Palestine is the ideal destination to revel in the spooky fun and natural beauty of the season.
