When you step outside and come for your visit to the Oaks bed and breakfast in Sulphur Springs, Texas, there are many things you can do in and around our great, little town. In case you want to explore a little more, we want you to get to know the area before you arrive. Each month we plan to feature another town close to Sulphur Springs, that you can visit and keep the Oaks as your home base for your exploration. Our first stop is Mineola, Texas.
We happened to need to be in Mineola for an evening soccer game, for one of our children and I figured this was a great time to explore before the game and get a feel for what the town has to offer for visitors. Our first stop, like yours should be when visiting anywhere new, was the Chamber of Commerce. The chamber of commerce in most any city is more than willing to give your tips and ideas about what is best to hit when you visit their town. Mineola was no different. The chamber proved to be very helpful in finding a decent place for lunch and pointed us in the right direction for our exploration.
Mineola is home to the railroad and that is what helps to keep this Historically registered town on the map today. They are home to an Amtrak depot, which makes stops on a regular basis and the town even has a festival later in the year celebrating the "Ironhorse." The depot stop also has a small train museum located inside so visitors can learn more about the industry and how it has helped the city of Mineola.
If you are a history buff or just like to learn more about the local area Mineola is host to a Historical Museum. A cool fact about this museum is that it once housed the Post Office. The only disadvantage is the days of the week they are open, Thursday - Saturday from 10 a.m. to 3 p. m. but admission is free. So plan your visit just right and you can explore this little nugget of East Texas history.
If museum's are not your thing, Mineola is home to the oldest, continuously operating theater in the State of Texas. The Lake Country Playhouse and Select Theater is home to all different kinds of shows and events.
You can see a first run movie or watch a classic all at the same location depending on what happens to be playing. This would be great spot to stop by and watch a classic or take in a play.
If nature and being outside is more of your jam, then be sure to stop by the 3,000 acre nature preserve. This beautiful spot in East Texas is sure to appease all the people in your party. The Mineola Nature Preserve has a little bit of everything for you to enjoy in the outdoors. A disc golf course, horse riding trails, a kayak or canoe spot, fishing and so much more. Step outside to explore this small piece of East Texas, it is sure to bring you joy. Grab your bike and explore! Don't forget to pack a picnic lunch for your visit.
The dining scene in Mineola is varied. There are going to be some great spots and some good spots to pull up a chair and grab a bite of food to enjoy. We chose to eat downtown and support those local businesses, this time we ate at Logan's. They have a good selection on their menu and even have a vegetarian section, which if you have spent anytime in East Texas is rare. We have also eaten at Kitchen's and we stopped in for fudge and coffee at The Fudge Shop inside Between Friends. You can look up my reviews on both locations at google reviews.
Just past the Nature Preserve is a winery, Grand Oaks, that people should be sure to check out. They only have tasting hours on Saturday, so be sure to call ahead to see if you can get in to grab a taste. We always fill like visiting these type of wineries, and feel it is important to help keep them open and making great wine. Unfortunately we happened by on a weekday, so we could not stop, but would love to hear about your experience.
Needless to say, Mineola is a great stop when exploring East Texas. It is close enough to Sulphur Springs to make The Oaks your home base and yet far enough away from home to make it like a little staycation. We encourage you to book your stay and then explore. Until then "take only memories, leave only footprints." ~ Chief Seattle.
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