3 of the Best Museums to Visit Near Tyler, TX

Our city of Tyler, TX is nicknamed the “Rose Garden of America”. We’re proud of that, and we’re also proud of our long history and accomplishments. To remember the past, you have to preserve it for future generations to experience. These are some of our favorite museums that we’re sure you’ll enjoy. 

3 of the Best Museums to Visit Near Tyler, TX

The 1859 Goodman-LeGrand House and Museum

This magnificent building was originally built in 1859 as a one-story, four-room house and it expanded over the next four generations of the family. The interior has been maintained to the original standard, and it is filled with its original artifacts. Some of the contents pre-date the construction of the house and date from the early 18th century.

The friendly and informative guides provide exceptional insight into the lives of its owners and the world they lived in. As you walk through the beautifully decorated rooms, listening to the guide, you feel transported back in time to a simpler age. Entrance is free, but a suggested donation of $2 is very appropriate. There are restrooms available, and a souvenir shop for mementos of a lovely experience. The museum is at 624 N Broadway Avenue.

Cotton Belt Depot Museum

For fans of trains, this museum is a must-visit. Our city grew due to its proximity to the railways, and this museum helps to preserve this important history. The museum was originally a train depot, that served passengers and freight from 1905 to 1956. The collections include train parts, artifacts from the depot’s history, and a large amount of information about early railways and the area’s cotton trade.

Model train enthusiasts will be fascinated with the HO and O scale model railways. They are part of the famous Bragg collection of over 200 model locomotives and 1,600 railcars that were bequeathed to the museum in 2005. The curators are all volunteers and have fascinating insights into the museum and its history. The museum is located at 210 E Oakwood Street, and admission is free but donations are gladly accepted.

Smith County Historical Society Museum

Founded in 1959, this museum chronicles the history and events of Smith County. Although the museum is modest in size, it is a treasure trove of historical artifacts and information. One of the rooms is filled with everyday historical items that give a fascinating insight into daily life. The second room is devoted to theme displays which are charged at regular intervals.

The museum staff is friendly and helpful, and extremely knowledgeable about the history of Tyler and Smith County. Entrance is free, but donations are accepted. You can also buy copies of the journal of the Smith County Historical Society. The museum is located at 125 S College Avenue.

After soaking up some of our fascinating history, come and visit us at Fairway Auto Center. We have been a part of Tyler’s history for more than twenty years, and we have the perfect new or used car waiting for you.

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