5 Fascinating Historical Attractions Near Tyler, TX

Tyler, TX, is known not only for its beautiful roses but also for its rich history. There are many historical attractions scattered throughout the city. Check out our list of Tyler historical landmarks if you’re planning a trip to the Rose Capital of America.

5 Fascinating Historical Attractions Near Tyler, TX

Caldwell Zoo

The Caldwell Zoo, located at 2203 Martin Luther King Boulevard in Tyler, Texas, is an 85-acre facility that houses over 3000 animals. DK Caldwell and his wife Lottie opened the zoo as a gift to the Tyler community in 1953. Caldwell Zoo also has several conservation programs that help native and endangered animal species worldwide. Bring your kids to the Caldwell Zoo for an afternoon of petting animals and feeding giraffes. After your tour, you can purchase a souvenir from the zoo’s gift shop.

Whitaker-McClendon House

The Whitaker-McClendon House is Tyler’s oldest structure and a designated Texas Historic Landmark. The house on 806 West Houston Street, built-in 1878, was once home to the famous twentieth-century journalist Sarah McClendon. During a tour of the historic Victorian-style house, you will see exhibits of various memorabilia belonging to the McClendon family, who lived there for over a century. Public tours are available on the weekends and are led by charming local guides who educate guests on the house’s cultural and historical significance.

Camp Ford Historic Park

Camp Ford Historic Park is located on a former Civil War prisoner of war campsite. Over 5,000 Union prisoners were housed at the camp during the summer of 1864. Today, the camp serves as a memorial to those who perished there. Camp Ford Historic Park is a must-see for enthusiasts and those interested in learning more about the Civil War. The park is well-kept and has lush scenery ideal for a picnic.

Tyler Rose Garden

Tyler Municipal Rose Garden is a 14-acre property with numerous rose bushes and over 500 rose flowers. The garden, located at 420 Rose Park Drive, is the largest in the country and was founded in 1952. The garden is opened daily, and admission is free. The Tyler Rose Garden is a lovely setting for a romantic wedding and it’s also an excellent place for a date night. You can walk the rose trails with your significant other while holding hands.

Tyler Museum of Art

The Tyler Museum of Art was founded in 1971 as a non-profit organization dedicated to educating Tyler’s young children about the cultural significance of art. The museum is now open to the public and includes several galleries, a classroom, a library, a café, and a gift shop.

The museum of art houses over 1200 works by local artists in various art mediums such as painting, photography, and sculpture. The museum hosts many events that may last until late at night, but with the automatic headlight beams of your 2021 Kia Sportage, you will be able to drive home safely.

Tyler has numerous historical sites to visit, as illustrated above. As you plan your trip, make sure you have the proper transportation. For incredible deals on used cars, call Fairway Auto Center today.

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