You CAN Find it in Canton, Texas

First Monday Canton Trade Days

Are you looking for a family getaway unlike any other?  How about take the family on a scavenger hunt for treasures big or small in Canton, Texas? The Thursday-Sunday preceding the first Monday of the month is "Canton Weekend".  Canton, Texas turns from a quiet East Texas town with a population of 3,500 to a bustling 250,000 to 400,000 visitors each month. During "Canton Weekend" you can find anything from unique backpacks for your children to an antique window from a 100+ year old church and everything in between.  There are over 7,000 vendors spread out over 400 acres in both indoor & outdoor locations. Whatever you are looking for, you CAN find it in Canton, Texas without breaking the budget!

Where is Canton, Texas?
Canton, Texas is located in east Texas about 60 miles east of Dallas on I-20 or 37 miles west of Tyler on Texas Highway 64.

Where is the nearest major airport to Canton, Texas?
The nearest major airport is Tyler Pounds Field airport approximately 31 miles from Canton, Texas. Tyler Pounds Field has two airlines servicing the airport - American Eagle Airlines which connects to DFW Airport in Dallas, Texas & United Airlines that connects to Bush Intercontinental in Houston, Texas.

What is there to do in Canton, Texas for fun?

• First Monday Trade Days - Your family could spend the day or weekend exploring the thousands of vendors at First Monday Trade Days. Don't have a lot of money to spend? Have a scavenger hunt for the most unique item for sale & take a photo of the item. Or you could pick a category such as paintings and have a photo scavenger hunt for the prettiest, most unique, most representative of the state of Texas or whatever!  Your options are limitless. Once everyone has selected their item, the family then votes on the best one. The person with the best one gets to choose which restaurant or vendor the family eats at that night. If you visit during Christmas each family member could draw names & buy a Canton Christmas gift for that person in the family to be opened Christmas Eve.  The indoor pavilions have new items such as purses, clothes, furniture, etc. If you are looking for an American Pickers experience you will want to visit the old section and avoid the pavilions. When you go you will want to bring a wagon or rent one for all your "finds" so you don't have to carry your purchases around all day. Make sure you wear comfortable shoes. Cost: $5.00 parking fee - not bad for a day of family fun!

Splash Kingdom Water Park

• Splash Kingdom Water Park - Splash Kingdom is open Memorial Day through Labor Day from 11 AM to 6 PM Sunday-Thursday & 11 AM to 7 PM Friday & Saturday. This family-friendly water park is a great way to spend a day. Cost: $23.95 for 42" & over, $18.95  for under 42", military & over 65 years old is $18.95, under 2 years old is FREE, after 4 PM is $14.44 per person as of July 2015.

• Yesterland Farm - Yesterland Farm is opened weekends September through December check website for exact dates. Yesterland Farm is fun for families with children aged 8 & under. Yesterland Farm is more than just a farm, it is also an amusement park with rides for small children. They do themed events such as fall pumpkin searches and Christmas cut down your own tree and see Santa Claus.  Cost varies visit website for more information but the cost is anywhere from $12.95 per person to $39.95 per person as of Fall 2015 with an extra fee for the rides of $2.00 per person.

Map of Yesterland Farm

Where can I stay in Canton, Texas?

I-20 RV Park

• Camping - If you would like to be close to First Monday Trade Days then you should stay at the First Monday RV Park that is within walking distance of Trade Days.  The cost is $30 per night with a minimum of 3 nights.  Reservations are taken the first Tuesday after first Monday trade days. Another RV park option include Mill Creek Ranch Resort that offers campsites ($37-$52 during non Trade Days, during Trade Days the cost is 25% more) or cabins ($136-$188 during non Trade Days, during Trade Days the cost is 25% more). Canton I-20 RV Park is another great option with rates at $35 per night.  Canton I-20 RV Park gets great reviews for their friendly staff and location. 

• Hotels -  The hotel that is highest rated on Trip Advisor is Best Western Canton, Texas. This hotel is located near Splash Kingdom & First Monday Trade Days. Nightly rates range from $120 - $199 per night. 

Azalea House B&B

• Bed & Breakfasts - Canton, Texas has over 30 bed & breakfasts from which to choose. Trip Advisor rates Azalea House B&B as number one. Azalea House is near Canton Trade Days but far enough away to escape the crowds. Azalea House has a pool with hot tub & slide, billards, fire pit for s'mores, and so much more! You must call & check rates if you are interested in staying at Azalea House as the nightly rates are not posted on the website.

Where is good place to grab a bite to eat in Canton, Texas?

• Dairy Palace claims to be "world renowned since 1984". This family owned restaurant serves up breakfast 24/7 as well as some tasty burgers, sandwiches, & Mexican food. All for a price that will not break the budget!

Dairy Palace

• Ole' West Bean & Burger  serves down-home cooking and has a fabulous salad bar to boot! If you are looking for comfort food or a really good salad bar visit Ole' West Bean & Burger. Cost $10-$20 per entree.

• Jalapeno Tree Mexican Food & Cantina serves Tex-Mex at it's best.  This chain restaurant offers great lunch specials that will not break your budget.  The chips & hot sauce are some of the best ever! This restaurant just opened in April 2015.  Cost $10-$20 per entree.

Arkansas' Castle in the Clouds - Queen Wilhelmina State Park

View of 3 states from Queen Wilhelmina State Park

Did you know Arkansas offers many budget friendly alternatives for the vacationing family? A great choice for the family on a budget is Queen Wilhelmina State Park. At 2,681 feet, Queen Wilhelmina State Park is atop Arkansas' second highest peak. A visit to the "Castle in the Clouds" will bring you one with nature while not breaking the budget. This beautiful state park in western Arkansas offers visitors 460 acres to explore and enjoy in the Ouachita Mountains. The beauty of this park can be enjoyed any season of the year. Start your journey down the Talimena Scenic Byway at Queen Wilhelmina State Park, you will not be disappointed!

What kind of accommodations are available at Queen Wilhelmina State Park?

Queen Wilhelmina Lodge

The Queen Wilhelmina Lodge atop Rich Mountain is brand new. Two years of renovations are complete as of July 2015. This beautiful lodge has 40 completely renovated guest rooms ranging from two queens to a king suite with spa & fireplace. Rates are a reasonable $95-$165 per night. 

If you prefer to camp, Queen Wilhelmina State Park offers 41 campsites that range from tent sites to full hookup campsites. The restroom facilities are clean and newly renovated. The views from the campsite are amazing. Rates range from $12-$25 per night. Discounts are available for those who are over 62 and for U.S. citizens who have written proof of being 100% disabled. 

Skyline Cafe Mena, Arkansas

Where can I eat at Queen Wilhelmina State Park?
In the lodge you will find a restaurant that serves southern cuisine for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. If you do not want to eat every meal at the restaurant at the lodge, you can drive 12 miles to the town of Mena, Arkansas. Mena offers a variety of restaurants from top rated Skyline Cafe that serves breakfast and lunch with rollerskating waitresses to fast food restaurants like McDonald's, Pizza Hut, & Subway. 


What is there to do at Queen Wilhelmina State Park?

• Mountain Glory Station is a miniature train located at the park entrance.  Mountain Glory trains take you around the park.  It is opened Memorial Day - Labor Day Tuesday-Sunday and closed on Monday. 
• Hiking. Queen Wilhelmina State Park offers hiking options ranging from easy to strenuous. Part of the 225 mile Ouachita Trail runs through the park. 
• Interpretive programs led by park rangers will provide learning opportunities about the history and native species of the area.  Interpretive programs are free.
• Relax and enjoy the beautiful surroundings. 
• Go for a scenic drive. The Talimena National Scenic Byway is not to be missed. It is a 54 mile scenic drive between Mena, Arkansas & just north of Talihina, Oklahoma. You will find several scenic overlooks & historic sites along your journey. Don't forget to charge your camera before you leave! 

Talimena National Scenic Byway

  

Disney World 2015

We just returned from our fourth trip to Disney World where we stayed for 7 nights & 8 days. In total we were gone 11 days as we drove to Disney World & spent a day in Pensacola, Florida on the way home.  We stayed on Disney property at Port Orleans Riverside, a moderate resort, because we enjoy the amenities offered including a boat ride to Downtown Disney. We spent 1 day at Animal Kingdom, 2 days at Epcot, 1 day at Hollywood Studios, & 4 days at Magic Kingdom. Below are some of my tips from my most recent trip.

• Saving Money by using Disney gift cards to pay for hotel, food, drink, & souvenirs. Sam's Club sells Disney gift cards for a $7.12 discount. To put it differently you can purchase $150 worth of Disney gift cards for $142.88, saving you $7.12 (you get three $50 gift cards per package). I know what you are thinking, only $7.12, that's not worth my time. But think about it like this, IF your trip costs you $3,300 and you used the discounted gift cards to purchase the hotel, food, drinks, etc. you would need 22 packs of gift cards.  If you save $7.12 PER PACK of gift cards that comes to a savings of $156.64. My dinner at Ohana Restaurant was paid for with my savings with a little money left over! If you are wondering HOW you can pay for your Disney World package using gift cards, let me tell you. You have to call the Disney resort phone number 407-939-1936 and speak to a cast member.  You will then have to give the cast member each gift card number from the back of the card.  A trick I learned once I was using the cards on the trip is that the gray scratch off on the back of the gift card is actually a STICKER, just peel it off and things will go much faster for you. I also used the discounted gift cards to purchase food, drink, & souvenirs while I was at Disney World.  I used the gift cards for restaurants at theme parks, Disney water parks, Disney resort hotels, and Downtown Disney.  Yes, all of the restaurants & stores at Downtown Disney will take the Disney gift card. I also used the Disney gift card at the Disney Character Outlet Store located on Vineland Avenue. It would have been easier to just link my credit card number to my MagicBand and use it to pay for everything, but I was on a budget and needed to save money where I could.

Hoop Dee Doo Musical Revue - Featuring all you can eat 

served family style meal including fried chicken, ribs,

mashed potatoes, corn, beans, salad, cornbread, 

& the BEST strawberry shortcake you ever tasted! 

All while enjoying some down home fun entertainment.

• Meal plan or no meal plan? That is the question... When we went to Disney World in 2013 we decided to take the Disney Dining Plan whereby we received 1 counter service meal including entree, drink, & dessert, 1 sit down meal including entree, drink, & dessert, and 2 snacks per night of our stay. After we got home from our trip we felt as though we ate ALL THE TIME. Needless to say it was too much food for us. When it came time to book our trip this year, we debated should we get the meal plan or not.  The cost for the meal plan for 3 adults aged 10+ would have been $1281 above the cost of our package. We decided to try the discounted gift cards and see what the difference in cost would be.  Keep in mind that during our 7 night stay we ate dinner one time each at Boatwrights (cost $75), Ohana (cost $140), 50s Diner (cost $53), Raglan Road (cost $68), & Hoop Dee Doo Dinner & Show ($177). Note: If you are on the Disney Dining Plan Hoop Dee Doo will cost you 2 meal credits. As you can see we did not eat all counter service meals, although we did eat some counter service meals, usually one per day.  The total cost for all of our meals including counter service restaurants, sit down restaurants, milk for breakfast in our room, and snacks was $821.90. That was a savings of $460 and we ate plenty of good food! In my opinion, unless you eat A LOT of food you will save money if you do NOT get the Disney Dining Plan.

• Download the My Disney Experience App for your smart phone. We used My Disney Experience everyday to see the wait times for rides & change FastPass+ reservations. This app will also have your reservations for restaurants, etc.  Disney World has fantastic free WiFi available at all of the theme parks and hotels.  Accessing My Disney Experience will be a breeze with the WiFi available.  

You can choose from a wide range
of colors for your MagicBand.

• MagicBands are really cool! If you are staying at a Disney World resort or you are an annual pass holder you will receive a MagicBand for each member of your family included in your package cost. If you are not staying at a Disney resort or are an annual pass holder, you can still get MagicBands to use while at the theme parks, you just have to pay $12.95 for them online or at select retail locations. I really liked the MagicBand - once we got them all working. Our MagicBands worked without fail to enter the theme parks.  However, they would not open our hotel door at Port Orleans Riverside the first time we tried. Unfortunately we discovered this at 11:00 PM on the night we checked in. Tired we went back to the front desk and the cast member "fixed" the bands.  Long story short, she only "fixed" mine and my son's band.  My husband's band required a second trip back to the front desk to fix the problem. Once they were all fixed we really enjoyed tapping our wrists to use our FastPass+ selections (remember once you are in the theme park, you can use anyone's MagicBand to access a Fastpass+ reservation - they do not make you give a finger print to use the FastPass+ at a ride), get our room door to open, or gain entrance to a theme park. An additional benefit was we could have tied our credit card to the MagicBand and we could have tapped to purchase food, drinks, & souvenirs, meaning no wallet necessary. We opted to use Disney gift cards to purchase our food, drinks, & souvenirs because you could purchase them at a discounted rate at Sam's Club. See above for how much money I saved using gift cards from Sam's Club. One problem I saw with the MagicBand for FastPass+ was about 3 times I saw people arguing with the cast member because they "supposedly" had a FastPass+ but it was not showing up in the system and thereby denying them entrance. I think they were just trying to sneak on the ride without having to wait in line... There is no fix for dishonesty I suppose...

You have 1 hour to redeem your
 FastPass + reservation. Example redeem
between 9:00 - 10:00 AM. 

• FastPass+ - Maybe it is because I am a planner, but I really like the FastPass+ system Disney World began using in 2014. I booked my Fastpass+ 60 days before my scheduled arrival date.  I then used My Disney Experience computer and app based version to track my reservations & change them as needed. I no longer had to worry about IF I was going to get a FastPass for my favorite ride. We did not wait more than 10 minutes for any ride and the theme parks were very busy. As much as I like FastPass+, I would like to see Disney make a few changes to the system however. For starters I do NOT like the tier system Disney has for Epcot & Hollywood Studios FastPass+ - just make them like Magic Kingdom & Animal Kingdom. Another change I would like to see would be for Disney to allow you to use My Disney Experience to get the FastPass+ choices after the initial 3 selections are used up. It could be a benefit for Disney Resort hotel guests. Finally I would like to be able to select the same ride multiple times for my initial 3 FastPass+ selections.  For example, I would have ridden Seven Dwarfs Mine Train three times in one day instead of Seven Dwarfs & then 2 other rides. I tried to get a FastPass+ to Seven Dwarfs after I used my initial 3, but guess what?  There were none available and standby times for this ride averaged 80 minutes. Since we don't like waiting in lines, we only got to ride Seven Dwarfs once on this trip. Even with the suggested changes I still believe FastPass+ is better than the old FastPass system. 

• Take Disney transportation to Downtown Disney & expect renovations in the theme parks. Disney World is undergoing A LOT of construction! To some extent, every theme park & Downtown Disney is experiencing construction.  Magic Kingdom has walls up on Main Street & around the castle making for a less than desirable photo.  At Magic Kingdom, Disney did attempt to make the walls blend in to the background but it does not look the same. Epcot is renovating the Norwegian ride so that it is "Frozen" themed. Innovations West at Epcot is permanently closed. Hollywood Studios has many areas, such as Back Lot Tour & American Idol Experience, shut down permanently. Animal Kingdom has walls up in Asia, Africa, & Discovery Island.  The walls at Animal Kingdom do not attempt to blend into the background, making them less appealing. You cannot get to some parts of Discovery Island due to construction. Downtown Disney is perhaps the biggest mess of them all. Downtown Disney has been under construction since 2013 with completion expected in 2016. New shops & restaurants have been added and will continue to be added. I suggest you take Disney transportation to Downtown Disney instead of trying to drive and park.

2015 Review of Port Orleans Riverside

Port Orleans Riverside was enjoyable but we did have some problems... 

Entrance to Port Orleans Riverside

Let me  begin by saying we have stayed at Port Orleans Riverside one previous time and Port Orleans French Quarter two previous times.  We choose the Port Orleans moderate resorts because we like the landscaping, amenities, & having the boat ride to Downtown Disney available.

Resort area Port Orleans Riverside

So what are the pros & cons of staying at Port Orleans Riverside?

Building 18 is a good location.

Everything Good About Port Orleans Riverside - Port Orleans Riverside has a great pool area in Ol' Man Island.  We also enjoyed the FREE smores each night. My son enjoyed playing a few video games in the Medicine Show Arcade. Yee Haw Bob does a great family friendly live show a few nights per week. There is a different movie on the lawn each night at sunset, but we did not get to see it. The boat ride to Downtown Disney was pleasant as always. You can also go on carriage rides, rent bicycles, & rent boats for an additional fee at Port Orleans Riverside. If you are assigned a building close to everything you will enjoy it - we enjoyed our building assignment this year. (Building 18) The cast members were friendly and helpful. The landscaping is beautiful! At the theme parks Riverside does not share a bus with French Quarter.

Riverside Food Court

Lobby Area Port Orleans Riverside

Now for the not so good...

A corner room is good! (IF it is cleaned.)

Last time we visited Port Orleans Riverside we were in Building 24 and were a minimum of 15 minutes walking to the food court and Ol' Man Island.  After that trip we learned to request a building closer to "everything". I read online and saw that for the rooms that did not have an upgrade charge you should request building 16 or 17.  I requested building 16 or 17 when I booked my room 6 months before leaving and I confirmed it 1 week before my scheduled arrival.  We arrived early to check in to our room (11 AM) but I went to the front desk and once again made my request. I was told my room was not ready yet but they would text me as soon as it was available.  The cast member also told me I was to be in building 18 based on what she could see on the computer. She said it was actually a better building than the one I requested. I left, excited about getting a building that would not be too far from everything. I received a text message from Disney Destinations around 4 PM telling me there was a problem with sending me an assigned room and that I needed to contact front desk.  I was at Disney Quest in Downtown Disney so I called. I spoke with 3 people before they finally told me my room assignment, no one could ever figure out why I received the text message I received. We arrived back to our room at 11 PM after a long day.  Our MagicBands would NOT unlock our door.  We then had to walk to the front desk to get that fixed. Long story short it took a total of 2 trips to the front desk to get all of our MagicBands to unlock the door.  At 11:30 PM we got into our room to find a mess! The room had not been vacuumed or swept. At the conclusion of my stay the room had not been swept or vacuumed. In addition, there was a straw on the floor under the bathroom sink that was there when we arrived. There was also a white substance on the floor under the sink that needed to be mopped. The table in the room had a white substance looking like old milk on it when we arrived. The wall on the left of the toilet had a brown spot that looked like chewing tobacco that was spit on the wall. It was there when we arrived and it was still there when we departed. When we arrived the toilet had a 2" wide yellow streak going down the front that I had to clean. Because it was so late at night I just cleaned what I could and stayed in the room. We ate at Boatwrights Dining which is a Cajun themed restaurant at Riverside. The food was bland and downright tasteless.  FYI I don't add salt to my food at restaurants but at Boatwrights I had to. The trundle bed is uncomfortable and anyone taller than 48" 

should not attempt to sleep comfortably on it. My 11 year old son found the bed to be far too short for him.

Trundle bed - not for those taller than 48"

So what do I think about staying at Riverside again?  

We have never experienced such lack of cleanliness at a Disney resort like we experienced this year. Maybe this was a one time occurrence... However, I think we will stay at French Quarter next time. Because Riverside & French Quarter are sister resorts, you can enjoy the amenities at each resort. That is my plan for next time. UPDATE: After completing the survey Disney sent after my stay, I was contacted by a representative from Disney. He apologized for the problems I experienced and offered me two free nights stay at a moderate resort of my choice when I visit Disney World again. I add this to my blog as evidence that Disney really does know a thing or two about hospitality.  Will I go back? - OF COURSE! 

Videos from our June 2015 Trip to Disney World

Magic Kingdom

For our 4th trip to Disney World we experienced some new as well as revisited some family favorite attractions and rides. We spent 8 days at Disney World and 1 day at Pensacola Beach, Florida. We drove this year because gas prices made driving MUCH more affordable than flying. We stayed on Disney property at Port Orleans Riverside, a moderate resort, because we enjoy the amenities offered including a boat ride to Downtown Disney. We spent 1 day at Animal Kingdom, 2 days at Epcot, 1 day at Hollywood Studios, & 4 days at Magic Kingdom.You can see videos for each theme park, hotel, & Downtown Disney by clicking the following links:

• Magic Kingdom
• Epcot
• Hollywood Studios
• Animal Kingdom
• Port Orleans Riverside & Downtown Disney

Downtown Disney

Pensacola Beach, Florida 2015

Interstate 10

"Road Trip!!! That's the plan.  Gas prices are very low - let's go on a road trip to Disney World."  I am certain those words must have crossed my lips when we were planning our trip to Disney World back in January. Well, being the budget conscious person that I am, we did opt to drive instead of fly to Disney World. Was it worth the drive?  Did we save money? YES! 

While we were in a hurry to get TO Disney World, we decided to take it slow coming home. On the way home we spent 2 nights in Pensacola Beach, Florida. As we prefer a beach that does not have high rise hotels, or any business for that matter, we chose to spend our day at Gulf Islands National Seashore near Pensacola Beach, Florida.  There were miles & miles of white sandy beaches that were untouched by man! The beaches were as white as snow.  It truly was something to see!

Where did we stay?

Well... since I am budget conscious you probably already know I did not stay ON the beach in a condo. The closer you are to a beach, the HIGHER your lodging prices become. After all I was only there for 1 1/2 days so being on the beach was not a priority. We stayed in a brand new Hampton Inn in Pensacola, Florida at I-10 & Pine Forest Road.  The hotel was clean (my highest priority), quiet (& my room was next to the elevator),nicely appointed, & had THE most comfortable bed I have ever slept on in a hotel. Oh yeah, there was FREE breakfast each morning! I booked the room 6 months before my trip using my points I had accumulated during the year.  My total cost for 2 nights using points & cash was only $111. Now that was a deal!

How far from the beach was your hotel?

The drive to the beach was a pleasant 35 minute drive on a Saturday morning in June. We went around 9 AM so the crowds had not yet headed that direction yet.  There was a $2 toll to get to the island but that toll was well worth the money. Helpful hint that will save you money: DRIVE THE SPEED LIMIT.  There are police officers cruising to give tickets all the way to the beach.

What did you do at Gulf Islands National Seashore?

Gulf Islands National Seashore
Naval Oaks Visitor Center

When we arrived we visited the Gulf Islands National Seashore Naval Live Oaks center.  A ranger led tour started shortly after we arrived.  The ranger took us on a short & easy hike and explained the nature trail to us. After the brief tour we then headed to Fort Pickens located on the far end of the island.  The ranger led program was very informative about the history of all of the forts on the Florida coastline.  I highly recommend touring Fort Pickens with the ranger. After exploring Fort Pickens we headed to the beach.  There was a red flag warning so we did not venture into the Gulf any deeper than our ankles. However, my son had a blast playing in the snow white sand.  The beach was not very crowded so we enjoyed a bit of solitude while our son played. Other things you can do include camping, bicycling, swimming, snorkeling, hiking, or going to more ranger programs at one of the nearby forts. If you are visiting on a Tuesday or Wednesday you might even catch a glimpse of the Blue Angels practicing.  

What is the cost for Gulf Islands National Seashore?

The cost for a single vehicle that carries less than 15 people  is $15 for 1-7 days and is good for all of the Gulf Islands National Seashore. You can find more information about fees at the National Park Service web page.

Where did you eat while at the beach?

Peg Leg Pete's Oyster Bar

We ate lunch/dinner around 3 PM at Peg Leg Pete's Oyster Bar in Pensacola Beach, Florida.  It was about a 6 minute drive from Gulf Islands National Seashore. Peg Leg Pete's Oyster Bar gets great reviews online, but I must say we thought the food was bland.  I guess we should have ordered oysters since it is an oyster bar. However, all 3 of us ordered something different and none of us really liked the food. To top it off we waited 40 minutes at 3 PM on a Saturday afternoon to be seated.  Service was really slow even once we got a table. It must REALLY be packed around 6 PM.  

Our day at the beach was over & it was time to go back to the hotel. We had to get on the road early the next morning & head home.  

Palestine, TX Small Town Charm on a Budget

Palestine (pronounced Pah-less-teen), Texas is a quaint town in East Texas with a population of 18,000.  The small town atmosphere draws visitors from near and far.  

What kind of accommodations are available in Palestine, Texas? 

Hampton Inn & Suites

Hotel/Motel: I would recommend the Hampton Inn & Suites ($125/night) located at 2700 South Loop 256 Palestine, Texas. The rooms are clean & comfortable.  The indoor pool is nice for year round fun. The breakfast was fabulously FREE. The staff were friendly and welcoming. You are near Walmart, Walgreens, & CVS as well as restaurants.  



Bed & Breakfast: 

Sabor a Pasion Country House & Bistro is a secluded retreat that will refresh your tired spirit and body. It is located a few miles north of Palestine at 110 Anderson County Road 406 Palestine, Texas 75803. Chef Simon will prepare a breakfast unlike any you have experienced. Reservations are also available at Restaurant Aubergine for lunch or dinner.  If you are looking to get away from it all and enjoy the beauty of East Texas, Sabor a Pasion is an excellent choice!


Camping:

Campsite Texas State Railroad  Palestine

I would recommend the Texas State Railroad Palestine Campsites  ($12/night) located on Highway 84 East just 3 miles from Loop 256. There are no full service hookup sites but there is running water for each site.  You also have a dump station on site. The campsites are level and in a quiet setting. There is a playground nearby. You  can also hike a short 1/2 mile hiking trail that has a pond. Our son enjoyed riding his bicycle around the camp loop.  We liked that we could sit at our campsite and watch him ride the full loop. You are not able to make reservations.  Campsites are available on a first come first serve basis. 

Lakeview Methodist Conference Center:

Lakeview Methodist Conference Center

Would you like to get away from it all and experience the great outdoors?  Lakeview is a camp setting offering facilities for groups from 2 to 1,100 people. There are 1,300 acres of wooded land, 3 lakes, & rolling hills that you and your family can enjoy.  Lakeview offers fishing, swimming, hiking, basketball courts, volleyball courts, putt putt golf, biking, & a ropes course just to name a few. The area is located south of Palestine on Texas Highway 294.  Cost ranges from $45 - $250 per night double occupancy. Day use fees are $5 per person. If you visit the Palestine area you do not want to miss Lakeview Methodist Conference Center.

Where is a good place to eat?

Rumps BBQ: 120 Farm-To-Market Rd 3328, Palestine, TX 75803
About 15 minutes west of Palestine located in what some might call "the middle of nowhere" you will find one fantastic restaurant! While Rumps specializes in BBQ they also offer fantastic sides & some great fried catfish. If you are in the area I highly recommend making the drive to Rumps for great food offered by fabulous servers & staff. (average meal cost $10)

Red Fire Grille: 400 North Queen Street Palestine, Texas 
Before I begin my review of Red Fire Grille, I want to preface it with the following. Yes, I know this blog is for families who want to travel on a budget. HOWEVER, Red Fire Grille is one of the best restaurants I have ever eaten at and therefore cannot be left from my post. Chef Chrisitan Mailloux prepares a revolving menu that inspires visitors to return time and again. When we visited Red Fire Grille I had the cooked to perfection New York Strip and my husband had the crab cakes which were artfully flavored. (average meal cost is $28) 

Giovanni's Italian Restaurant: 2027 West Oak Palestine, Texas
Giovanni's is quality Italian food that comes in portions big enough to share. If you are looking for an Italian meal or just a pizza, you will not be disappointed at Giovanni's. I highly recommend the chicken aristocrat. (average meal cost is $12)

Oxbox Bakery & Antiques: 215 East Crawford Street Palestine, Texas
No visit to Palestine is complete without stopping in for some of the best pie (I like chocolate) you will ever eat! Oxbow Bakery is located in historic Old Town Palestine.  After you finish your pie, walk it off as you visit other shops in the area. 

Eilenberger Bakery: 512 North John Street Palestine, Texas
This bakery first opened in 1898 and has become legendary near and far.  Featured in Southern Living magazine as one of the best bakeries in the south, you do not want to miss this treat when visiting Palestine. Try the gooey bars - you will not be disappointed.

What is there to do in Palestine, Texas?

Texas State Railroad: 

Texas State Railroad Steam Engine

The Texas State Railroad offers rides on a steam engine through beautiful East Texas. The rides depart from the Palestine or the Rusk depot depending on the day you choose to visit. The cost for coach or open air is $32 for adults & $20 for children for coach class. The Texas State Railroad offers special train rides throughout the year such as The Polar Express among others.  The Polar Express is a perfect way to get into the spirit of Christmas & the city of Palestine has festive activities taking place during this time as well. 

Davey Dogwood Park: 

Davey Dogwood Park

This 254 acre park on the north side of Palestine at 900 North Link Street is best seen during the spring during Palestine's Dogwood Festival. Drive through this beautiful park the last two weekends in March.

Enjoy a Small Town Festival: 
Palestine hosts two festivals each year, Texas Dogwood Trails Festival and the Hot Pepper Festival. The Texas Dogwood Trails Festival takes place the last two weekends in March & the first weekend in April - during the height of dogwood trees blooming. The Hot Pepper Festival takes place the last Saturday in October and features live bands, pepper eating contests, Dogwood Jamboree, & good ol' small town charm. Palestine is also a great place to visit during the Christmas holidays. In addition to the Polar Express, Palestine also offers a Christmas parade, Santa's Magical workshop, & Ice Fest.  

Enjoy a scenic drive:

• FM 322 south to Texas State Highway 294.  Take a right on Texas State Highway 294 and travel past Lakeview Methodist Conference Center (400 PR 6036 Palestine, TX). I highly recommend visiting Lakeview at least for 1/2 a day if not longer. After leaving Lakeview take a right on Texas State Highway 294 and travel approximately 3 miles and turn right onto FM 1990. FM 1990 will take you back into Palestine.

• Texas State Highway 19 north to Athens, Texas (approximately 35 miles) is another beautiful drive. In Athens visit the Texas Fresh Water Fishery.  Your kids will love fishing in the pond, the dive show, the tram tour, hiking, and learning about the hatchery. Cost $5.50 adults & $3.50 for kids aged 4-12. Plan to spend at least 1/2 day here.

  

  Texas Freshwater Fishery Athens, Texas

• Texas State Highway 155 north to Tyler, Texas (approximately 47 miles). See my post for Tyler, Texas for more information on this beautiful city.

Beautiful Tyler, Texas on a Budget!

Texas is a BIG state!  With over 268,000 square miles you can find many different geographic regions. From the piney woods of East Texas to the mountainous region of Big Bend, there is something for everyone. A beautiful region of Texas is the piney woods located in East Texas. The piney woods have rolling hills covered by oaks, pines, & rich bottom lands with tall hardwoods. The largest city in East Texas is Tyler with a population of 100,000 people. Tyler is the "Rose Capital of the World" with the largest rose garden in the United States. When you visit Tyler you will enjoy southern hospitality in a beautiful mid-sized town.



How do I get to Tyler, Texas?

• Drive: Tyler, Texas is located 10 miles south of Interstate 20  which is about 100 miles east of Dallas, Texas.  If you choose to drive to Tyler, you will not be disappointed in the beautiful scenery that surrounds this East Texas town. 

• Fly: Tyler Pounds Field has two airlines servicing the airport - American Eagle Airlines which connects to DFW Airport in Dallas, Texas & United Airlines that connects to Bush Intercontinental in Houston, Texas.  

• Amtrak Train Service: The Texas Eagle route for Amtrak Trains has a stop in Mineola, Texas.  Mineola is a short 25 mile drive to Tyler.  You can rent a car at Mineola Car Rentals.

What kind of accommodations are available?

Residence Inn 350 W. Heritage Dr. Tyler, Texas

• Hotel: I recommend the newly built (Fall 2014) Residence Inn ($159 per night) located in South Tyler at 350 W Heritage Dr, Tyler, TX.  This hotel has an indoor pool, free parking, free WiFi, free full breakfast, & free evening reception (free beer, wine, & snacks).  All 119 suites have kitchens and a pull out sofa.  The size of the suites make for perfect alternatives to a typical hotel for families, it really is like a studio apartment. 

• Bed & Breakfast: I recommend the Rosevine Inn ($129-$199 per night) if you are looking to stay in the heart of Tyler. It is located at 415 South Vine Tyler, Texas in the historic brick street area.  If you would like to venture outside Tyler (17 miles south) I recommend Kiepersol Estates Bed & Breakfast ($160-$245 per night) Kiepersol Estates Bed & Breakfast is located at a winery/distillery.  In addition there is a fabulous gourmet restaurant on the property as well. 

Kiepersol Estates

• Camping: You have several choices for campgrounds in the Tyler, Texas area.  I would recommend a Good Sam Campground called K.E. Bushman's Camp which is located about 3 miles from Kiepersol Winery. They have 97 RV & 6 tent sites. ($30 per night for RV). If you prefer a state park, Tyler State Park (Campsites $14 - $26 per night, Cabins $50 per night, & screened shelters $28 per night) located 12 miles north of Tyler is beautiful. 

What is there to do?

Tyler Rose Garden

• Tyler Rose Garden: This 14 acre rose garden located at 420 Rosepark Drive Tyler, Texas is the largest in the United States. The garden is open 7 days per week from dawn to dusk and admission is FREE.  Don't miss the Texas Rose Festival held the middle of October each year. If you are looking to see some beautiful gardens and get some great photographs, don't miss this budget friendly attraction. 

Caldwell Zoo

• Caldwell Zoo: An AWESOME zoo for such a small town!  Tyler has one of the best zoos in the State of Texas. Caldwell Zoo has a diverse selection of animals, including white tigers. The zoo is located on 85 acres at 2203 Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd Tyler, Texas.  It is the perfect size for toddlers & small children, while still having interesting exhibits for older kids as well.  It is a great way to spend 1/2 a day in Tyler, Texas. Admission is $11.50 for adults and $8 for children 12 and under.  Parking is FREE! 

Discovery Science Place

Tyler State Park

• Discovery Science Place: This hands-on science museum is great for kids aged 9 and under.  There are 2 buildings of exhibits with many hands on activities for children. This is a great way to spend 1/2 a day in Tyler, Texas. Admission cost is $8 for adults, $6 for kids aged 2-12, & under 2 is free.  Discovery Science Place is located in downtown Tyler at 308 N. Broadway.  There is some parking beside the science place and additional parking across Broadway in the Chamber of Commerce parking lot. 

• Tyler State Park:  Tyler State Park is beautiful with it's 64 acre lake and 100 foot tall trees. This state park features 13 miles of trails to hike or bike, fishing, swimming, & boat rentals. There are great Ranger programs scheduled throughout the year providing fantastic learning opportunities. Tyler State Park is located at 789 Park Road 16 Tyler, Texas. Admission is $5 for Adults and FREE for children 12 years and under for a day pass. 

• Bowling Alleys/Entertainment Centers/Movie Theaters: My favorite bowling alley is Green Acres Bowling Center.  Recently under new management Green Acres has turned into a great place to have some good ol' fashioned family fun. Fire Mountain Amusement is a great place to ride go-karts, bumper boats, & play games. It is located south of Tyler at 14722 Highway 155 South. Tyler has several movie theaters.  I recommend Times Square Movie Theater for an indoor theater and Skyvu Drive-in for a drive-in movie theater.  While not state of the art theaters, both are budget friendly and stand out among typical movie theaters.

• Shopping Centers: Broadway Square Mall located at the corner of highway 69 (Broadway) and Loop 323 is a Simon Mall with 80 stores for your shopping enjoyment.  The Village at Cumberland Park is Tyler's newest shopping center with new stores being added monthly.  If you prefer antiques and boutiques The Potpourri House is for you!

Where is a good place to eat?

• Kiepersol Restaurant - Fine dining at it's best.  Located at Kiepersol Winery 17 miles south of Tyler, this restaurant offers superb meals worth every penny!

• Stanley's Famous BBQ - A Tyler tradition for 50 years.  Do not miss a chance to enjoy the best BBQ in East Texas, maybe even in all of Texas! A budget friendly option located at 525 South Beckham Tyler, Texas. 

• Mercado/Pasados Mexican Restaurant - If Tex-Mex is what you crave, you will not find a better place than Mercados or Pasados.  There are 2 locations, one on west loop 323 and the second on 5th street near downtown Tyler.  Either choice is excellent!

• Texas Roadhouse -  This chain restaurant serves quality food at a reasonable price.  If you are looking for a steak you will not find a better one than at Texas Roadhouse.  Kids eat free on Tuesday which will help the budget. Located at 2101 E. South Loop 323.
• The Diner - Serving the best old fashioned breakfast in Tyler.  You will not be disappointed with lunch either! Located at 7924 South Broadway Suite 1000.

Are there any scenic drives from Tyler, Texas?

• Texas State Highway 155 South from Tyler to Palestine is a beautiful drive across Lake Palestine to the towns of Frankston & then Palestine. 

• U.S. Highway 69 South from Tyler to Jacksonville has beautiful views of the hilly terrain of East Texas. Do not miss the Lover's Lookout for some spectacular views.

• Texas State Highway 31 East from Tyler to Kilgore is beautiful.  Make sure you eat at the world famous Country Tavern just outside of Kilgore.