Welcome to Lufkin, a vibrant city nestled in the heart of East Texas! Lufkin offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, a rich history, and a wide array of recreational activities.
Whether you are a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun-filled getaway, Lufkin has something to offer everyone. Explore the city’s abundant green spaces, immerse yourself in its cultural heritage, and indulge in the delicious cuisine.
Join us as we embark on a journey to discover the top things to do and see in Lufkin, creating memories that will last a lifetime.
1. Ellen Trout Zoo
Located in the charming city of Lufkin, Texas, the Ellen Trout Zoo is a must-visit destination for animal lovers and families alike. Spanning over 15 acres of lush greenery, this zoo offers an incredible experience with its diverse range of wildlife.
From majestic rhinos to awe-inspiring big cats, the Ellen Trout Zoo is home to a plethora of fascinating species. One of the main highlights of the zoo is its collection of rhinos.
These magnificent creatures captivate visitors with their size and strength, providing an up-close encounter that is both thrilling and educational.
Observing these gentle giants in their natural habitat is an experience that will leave a lasting impression on visitors of all ages. In addition to rhinos, the Ellen Trout Zoo boasts an impressive array of big cats.
From the graceful cheetahs to the powerful lions, these majestic felines never fail to inspire awe and admiration. Watching them roam and interact within their enclosures offers a rare opportunity to witness the beauty.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 936-633-0399
Address: 402 Zoo Cir, Lufkin, TX 75904, United States
Website: ellentroutzoo.com
2. Naranjo Museum-Natural History
Located in Lufkin, Texas, the Naranjo Museum-Natural History is a must-visit destination for all history and science enthusiasts. This unique museum boasts an eclectic collection that includes dinosaur bones, fossils, weapons, and even space shuttle artifacts.
With its vast array of exhibits, the museum offers visitors a fascinating journey through time and space. As you step inside the Naranjo Museum-Natural History, you will be greeted by an impressive display of dinosaur bones.
These ancient relics allow you to marvel at the sheer size and power of these prehistoric creatures.
From the towering Tyrannosaurus rex to the long-necked Brachiosaurus, the museum showcases an extensive collection of dinosaur fossils that are sure to captivate visitors of all ages.
In addition to its dinosaur exhibits, the Naranjo Museum of Natural History also features a wide variety of fossils.
These prehistoric remnants offer a glimpse into the Earth’s past, showcasing the diverse range of life that once inhabited our planet.
Rating: 9.2
Phone: +1 936-639-3466
Address: 5104 S First St, Lufkin, TX 75901, United States
Website: naranjomuseum.org
3. Ellen Trout Park
Ellen Trout Park in Lufkin is a down-to-earth standby for locals and visitors alike. This charming park offers a variety of activities and amenities that make it a perfect destination for families, friends, and nature enthusiasts.
One of the highlights of the park is its covered picnic pavilions, providing a great space for outdoor gatherings and celebrations.
These picnic pavilions are ideal for hosting birthday parties, family reunions, or simply enjoying a picnic lunch with friends.
The covered structures offer protection from the sun and rain, ensuring that your outdoor gathering can go on uninterrupted, regardless of the weather.
With ample seating and tables, you can comfortably accommodate your group and enjoy a meal surrounded by the park’s natural beauty. In addition to the picnic pavilions, Ellen Trout Park boasts several playgrounds that are sure to delight children of all ages.
These playgrounds feature a variety of play equipment, including swings, slides, and climbing structures.
Rating: 9.4
Phone: +1 936-633-0399
Address: 402 Zoo Cir, Lufkin, TX 75904, United States
Website: ellentroutzoo.com
4. Museum of East Texas
The Museum of East Texas is a must-visit destination in Lufkin. This remarkable museum has been open since 1976 and is housed in a beautiful 1906 Episcopal church.
It serves as both an art and history museum, offering visitors a unique and enriching experience. Upon entering the museum, you will be greeted by a stunning display of artworks and sculptures that showcase the rich cultural heritage of the region.
The collection spans various mediums, including paintings, photographs, ceramics, and textiles.
It offers a diverse range of styles and themes, ensuring that there is something for everyone to appreciate and enjoy. The museum’s art collection is a testament to the talent and creativity of local and regional artists.
It provides a platform for artists to showcase their work and offers visitors an opportunity to engage with and appreciate the artistic expression that defines this vibrant community.
In addition to its art collection, the Museum of East Texas also houses a fascinating collection of historical artifacts.
Rating: 9
Phone: +1 936-639-4434
Address: 503 N 2nd St, Lufkin, TX 75901, United States
Website: metlufkin.org
5. Texas Forestry Museum
The Texas Forestry Museum in Lufkin is a fascinating place to visit. This museum is primarily focused on the history and significance of logging in the region.
With its hands-on exhibits, old equipment, outdoor trains, and a gift store, it offers an immersive and educational experience for visitors of all ages. Step into the museum, and you’ll be transported back in time to the era of logging in Texas.
The exhibits showcase the tools, techniques, and challenges faced by loggers in the past. From axes and saws to steam-powered machinery, you can see firsthand how the logging industry evolved over the years. One of the highlights of the museum is the hands-on exhibits.
Visitors can try their hand at sawing logs, operating vintage machinery, and even climbing aboard a replica logging truck.
These interactive displays provide a unique opportunity to experience the work of loggers and gain a deeper understanding of their daily lives. The museum also boasts a collection of old logging equipment, which is displayed indoors.
Rating: 9.6
Phone: +1 936-632-9535
Address: 1905 Atkinson Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901, United States
Website: treetexas.com
6. Kit McConnico Park
Kit McConnico Park is a wonderful place to visit in Lufkin. Located in the heart of the city, this park offers a variety of activities for both locals and tourists to enjoy.
One of the best things about this park is that it is dog-friendly, making it a popular spot for dog owners to bring their furry friends. Upon entering the park, you will immediately notice the well-maintained walking paths that wind through the lush greenery.
These paths provide the perfect opportunity for a leisurely stroll with your dog.
You can take in the beauty of the surrounding nature while enjoying some exercise with your four-legged companion. As you explore further into the park, you will discover a spacious and well-designed dog park area.
This designated space allows dogs to run and play off-leash in a safe and secure environment. With ample space to roam, your furry friend can socialize with other dogs and burn off some energy. It’s a great way for both dogs and their owners to make.
Rating: 8.8
Phone: +1 936-633-0250
Address: Kit McConnico Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901, United States
7. Kiwanis Park
Kiwanis Park in Lufkin is a public park that offers a wide range of activities for visitors of all ages. One of the key features of this park is its excellent sports facilities.
Whether you’re a tennis enthusiast, a basketball lover, or a volleyball player, Kiwanis Park has got you covered. The park boasts well-maintained tennis courts that are perfect for those who enjoy a friendly game or want to practice their skills.
The courts provide a great opportunity to bond with friends or family while engaging in some healthy competition.
Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced player, the tennis facilities at Kiwanis Park are sure to meet your needs. In addition to the tennis courts, Kiwanis Park also offers a basketball court for those who prefer the fast-paced action of the game.
Whether you’re shooting hoops alone or organizing a pickup game with friends, the basketball facilities at this park provide a great space to enjoy the sport.
Rating: 8.6
Phone: +1 936-633-0250
Address: 1117 S Timberland Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901, United States
Website: cityoflufkin.com
Conclusion
Lufkin offers a wide range of activities that cater to different interests and preferences. Whether you are a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or simply looking for a fun family outing, Lufkin has something for everyone.
The city’s stunning natural landscapes, including the Angelina National Forest and Ellen Trout Zoo, provide opportunities for outdoor adventures and wildlife encounters.
The historic areas, such as the Texas Forestry Museum and the Museum of East Texas, offer a glimpse into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Additionally, Lufkin is home to various events and festivals throughout the year, providing visitors with a chance to immerse themselves in the local community.
Whether it’s exploring the charming downtown area, enjoying recreational activities at Lake Sam Rayburn, or indulging in the delicious local cuisine, Lufkin promises a memorable experience for all.
Angel Portillo is an experienced tourism professional who has worked in the travel industry for many years. He has extensive knowledge of the different destinations that are popular among tourists, and is able to provide tips and advice on how to make the most of your visit. His passion for travel is evident in her writing, which is full of interesting and descriptive details about the different places he’s visited.