4 Must-Visit Museums Near Tyler

Museums can be both educational and entertaining. If you live in or around the Tyler, Texas, area, you’re in luck, as there are many exciting museums worth checking out.

1. Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum

The Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum is a historic home that dates back to 1859. First referred to as the Bonnie Castle, the home has had numerous owners throughout history including Samuel Gallatin Smith and Dr. Samuel Adams Goodman. Visitors can track the history of the house through the resident journals which report of numerous social galas and prominent parties.

While the historic home is worth checking out, the gardens are what attract the most attention. The gardens, also referred to as LeGrand Park, span the entire block with colorful blooming flowers of all types. Many visitors report sitting among the azaleas and roses to be one of their favorite parts of the museum. Admission to the museum is free, but donations are always accepted.

2. Cotton Belt Depot Museum

The Cotton Belt Depot Museum will take you back into life in Tyler in 1877, when the depot was an important part of the Cotton Belt Railway. Today, the museum displays model trains as well as other train items including uniforms worn by the workers and historical photographs. Visitors can also take a guided tour of the depot museum and learn about the area’s interesting railway history. Entrance to the museum is free, but you can leave a donation.

3. Tyler Museum of Art

Whether you’re an art enthusiast, or you just enjoy the inspiration that comes from strolling through artwork, the Tyler Museum of Art is a must-visit. The museum is located within the Tyler Junior College and features a variety of artwork including prints, paintings, photography, and sculptures. The museum was founded in 1952, and it was one of the first art museums not only in the Tyler area, but also in Eastern Texas. Its goal is to educate the local children on artwork.

4. Historic Aviation Memorial Museum

The Historic Aviation Memorial Museum is the place to go to learn about the aviation history of Tyler. Visiting the museum gets you up close and personal with military aircraft. The Origins of Aviation is the current exhibit on display at the museum and includes headgear, model planes, and historical pictures and articles from numerous aircraft throughout history.

Guests can check out the museum on their own or sign up for a personal guided tour. Entrance is just $8 per person and annual memberships are available. If you opt for the annual membership, it includes free entrance to museum events and discounts on gift shop items. There are also discounts for seniors and family members.

Tyler is full of interesting history. Whether you want to check out one of the most historic homes in the area or photographs of the city’s railway history, you’ll find it all here. Grab the family and get ready for an educational and thrilling trip to some of the best museums in the state of Texas.

Tags: Museums in Tyler TX, Tyler TX Museums
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