Marshall is a historic city located in East Texas.
Founded in 1841, Marshall is known for its beautiful downtown area, its antebellum architecture, as well as a thriving arts scene.
Marshall, the county seat of Jefferson County, also has many interesting museums, great shops, and restaurants.
Also Read: 33 Best Small Towns to Visit in Texas
Because of its location in the Piney Woods region, Marshall is also close to many outdoor activities and attractions.
If you’re looking for a weekend getaway that’s full of southern charm, then Marshall is a wonderful destination.
Also Read: 18 Fun Things to do in East Texas
Fun fact – Marshall is a small city in East Texas with a big place in music history!
It’s the birthplace of Boogie Woogie, a style of piano blues that became hugely popular in the 1930s.
Its origins are linked to the Texas & Pacific Railroad line that ran through Marshall.
Today, the Boogie Woogie sound can be heard in many different genres of music, from rock to jazz.
Best Things to do in Marshall, Texas
There are plenty of things to do in Marshall, whether you’re a history buff, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun place to visit.
Downtown Marshall is full of historic buildings and strolling down the brick-lined streets is a great way to spend an afternoon.
Add in the museums as well as nearby attractions, and you can easily spend 2 to 3 days exploring the tourist attractions in Marshall.
Here are some of the best things to do in Marshall, TX.
Marvel at the Old Harrison County Courthouse
The Old Harrison County Courthouse in Marshall, Texas is a beautiful and historic building that dominates the town square.
Built-in 1901, it is one of the oldest and most recognizable courthouses in the state of Texas.
It is also a beautiful example of neoclassical architecture.
The courthouse is a popular stop for tourists and a source of pride for locals.
It is a reminder of Marshall’s long and rich history.
Take a walk through Harrison County Courthouse Square
The Harrison County Courthouse Square is a beautiful area located in the heart of downtown Marshall.
Stroll through the square and admire the architecture of the courthouse, then take in the surrounding buildings.
Then, take a break in one of the square’s many parks or cafes.
On Saturdays, you will find the Farmer’s Market held here.
Stroll down Historic Downtown Marshall
Downtown Marshall is a National Historic Landmark District that is home to dozens of beautiful antebellum buildings.
Take a stroll down Washington Ave and admire the Greek Revival-style buildings that date back to the mid-19th century.
Many of these buildings are now home to businesses, restaurants, charming boutiques, and art galleries.
Be sure to pop into some of the local shops, where you’ll find everything from vintage clothing to handcrafted jewelry.
Check out Telegraph Park
Telegraph Park is a small park located in downtown Marshall.
The park is home to a replica of the first telegraph office in Marshall, which was built in 1854.
The park also has a sculpture of a Telegraph Boy at work.
It’s a great place to take a break from shopping and sightseeing and it’s also a popular spot for taking photos.
Visit the Marshall Visitor Center
The Marshall Visitor Center is a great place to start your visit to Marshall.
Here, you can pick up maps and brochures, learn about the history of the city, and find out about upcoming events.
Browse the Weisman Antique Store
Nestled in the heart of historic Marshall, Texas, Weisman Antique and Gift Shop is a must-visit for any lover of vintage finds.
It has been a staple in the historic downtown of Marshall, Texas for over three decades and is located right next to the Visitor Center on Washington Ave.
The shop is filled to the brim with an ever-changing assortment of antique furniture, glassware, china, and more.
Browsing through the store is one of the most fun things to do in Marshall, Texas.
Visit the Harrison County Historical Museum
The Harrison County Historical Museum in Marshall, Texas is a hidden gem.
It has 3 locations, with one being inside the Courthouse.
This museum is packed with artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of Harrison County’s rich history.
From the early days of the Republic of Texas to the present day, the museum chronicles the county’s development through a variety of lenses.
The museum’s permanent collection includes items such as furniture, photographs, and documents.
With its fascinating exhibits and a deep trove of historical resources, the Harrison County Historical Museum is well worth a visit.
Tour the Starr Family Home State Historic Site
Nestled in the piney woods of East Texas, the Starr Family Home State Historic Site offers a glimpse into the lives of one of Marshall’s most prominent families.
The home was built in 1871 by Frank Starr and is known by the name ‘Maplecroft’.
The home is furnished with many original items from the Starr family, including furniture, china, and clothing.
Visitors can also see a working replica of the kitchen stove that was used by the family.
In addition to the main house, the site includes several outbuildings including the Blake House, Rosemont, and the Schoolroom.
Visit the Michelson Museum of Art
The Michelson Museum of Art is a great place to spend an afternoon if you’re interested in art and history.
The museum is dedicated to the life and work of Leo Michelson, a Latvian-American artist known for his illustrations and paintings.
The museum houses a permanent collection of Michelson’s work, as well as other artists.
See the exhibits at the Texas and Pacific Railway Museum
The Texas & Pacific Railway Depot and Museum is a must-see attraction for anyone interested in the railroad history of Texas.
The depot was built in 1881. It served as a major stopping point for passengers and freight traveling on the Texas & Pacific Railway.
Read more 22 Fun Things to Do in San Antonio for Couples
Today, the depot has been beautifully restored.
It houses a museum that tells the story of the railway and its importance to the state of Texas.
The depot is home to a collection of railroad memorabilia, including equipment, photographs, and documents.
Dine at the The Ginocchio
The Ginocchio Hotel is a historic hotel and restaurant located in downtown Marshall.
The hotel was built in 1896, adjacent to the Texas and Pacific Railway Station, and catered to rail passengers.
The hotel has been restored to its original 19th-century grandeur, and the restaurant serves classic American cuisine with a Southern twist.
The adjacent Ginocchio Historic District is also worth exploring.
See a show at the Memorial City Hall
The Memorial City Hall is a performance venue located in downtown Marshall.
Every year at hosts a variety of performances including popular plays.
During the holiday season, you can watch shows like A Christmas Carol and the Nutcracker ballet here.
Explore murals in downtown Marshall
Downtown Marshall is home to several incredible murals.
The murals depict scenes from the city’s history, including the Civil War, the Railroad, and the oil boom.
Walking around downtown and admiring the murals is one of the best free things to do in Marshall, Texas.
Try some Texas bbq at Bear Creek Smokehouse
The Bear Creek Smokehouse is a great spot for lunch or dinner if you’re in the mood for some good old-fashioned Texas BBQ.
The restaurant is located in a historic building and has been in the family for generations.
The smokehouse specializes in slow-cooked meats, smoked over hickory wood.
The menu features a variety of BBQ classics, such as brisket, ribs, and sausage.
Experience the Wonderland of Lights holiday festival
Christmas is an exciting time to be in Marshall, Texas.
The Wonderland of Lights in Marshall is one of Texas’s most anticipated holiday events.
During the festival, the town comes alive with holiday lights, decorated displays, and Christmas events.
The festival kicks off with a parade, and there are also live concerts, caroling, ice skating, and Santa visits.
The highlight is the gorgeous Old Harrison County Courthouse. It is illuminated with over 100,000 lights and looks magnificent.
The Wonderland of Lights is a must-see during the holiday season.
Also Read: 24 Best Texas Christmas Vacations
Explore the restaurants and cafes in Marshall
When you get hungry, there are plenty of great restaurants to choose from.
For a taste of Texas BBQ, be sure to check out Bodacious or Bear Creek.
Other popular restaurants include Cajun Tex, Central Perks, and Gucci’s Pizza.
Or, if you’re in the mood for something sweet, stop by Bubba’s Shaved Ice for a treat.
Enjoy a romantic time at Walkers Mill Vineyard
Walkers Mill Vineyard & Winery is a beautiful spot for a romantic outing.
The vineyard specializes in muscadine grapes and has beautifully landscaped grounds.
Visitors can take a tour of the vineyard by appointment, enjoy a wine tasting at their tasting room, or just relax with a glass of wine and enjoy the views.
Explore nature at Caddo Lake
Texas is home to many beautiful state parks, and Caddo Lake State Park is one of the best.
Caddo Lake, located on the Texas-Louisiana border, is the perfect place to spend a day outdoors.
The park offers hiking, fishing, canoeing, as well as bird-watching.
The lake is popular for its abundant fish population, including largemouth bass, crappie, and catfish.
From Marshall’s museums and historic sites to vineyards and tasting rooms, there are plenty of top attractions in this East Texas gem to keep you busy.
Interested in history, outdoors, or shopping? You will fall in love with Marshall, Texas!
What are your favorite things to do in Marshall, Texas? Let us know in the comments.
— Update: 17-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 15 Best Things to Do in Marshall, TX from the website www.travellens.co for the keyword fun things to do in marshall tx.
Marshall is a city dating back to 1841, sitting on the northeast side of Texas.
It is the county seat of Harrison County and was the first to develop a telegraph service in the state.
Currently, the city offers plenty of historical places to visit and different spots to discover.
Spanning 76.81 square kilometers in area, Marshall offers plenty of activities and sights.
Some spots you can find in this city include attractive shopping spaces and places for fun activities.
Here are the best things to do in Marshall:
Visit the Texas and Pacific Railroad Museum/Depot
History fans will find plenty to visit and explore in Marshall.
Among the different historical locations in the city, Texas and Pacific Railroad Museum/Depot is one of the historical sites to discover.
The Texas and Pacific Railroad Museum/Depot is the remnants of the T&P Railway yards.
At one point, the depot was a refuge for soldiers from World War I and II and a venue for telegraph and immigration offices.
You can identify the depot by the large red building near the North Washington area.
Likewise, you can access the museum portion via a tunnel below the Amtrak line and in the Ginocchio National Historic District.
The museum features several train artifacts, including early passenger train memorabilia and a model train.
Take a chance to explore local history by visiting the Texas and Pacific Railroad Museum/Depot.
Browse Paintings and Other Displays at the Michelson Museum of Art
Those who love art need to check out the works at the Michelson Museum of Art.
The Michelson Museum of Art is a venue for various works done by different artists.
As the name indicates, the museum features several artworks by artist Leo Michelson.
The museum opened in 1985.
Since then, many other artists have added their works to the collection.
These artists include Dr. Bernard Kronenberg and Ramona Ward.
Depending on the month, you can find different exhibitions featured at the museum in varying mediums from distinct artists.
In addition to featuring a variety of art mediums and artists, the museum hosts summer classes.
You can find the museum in the North Bolivar area within the Southwestern Bell Telephone Building.
See a Show at the Memorial City Hall
The Memorial City Hall is the prime spot for watching performing arts in the city, and you can visit it by heading to East Houston Street.
The performance center opened in 1927, featuring various performances ranging from concerts to informational talks.
Besides being a performing center, the Memorial City Hall is a conference center where several events occur.
The performing and conference center also doubles as a venue for the local museum exhibit depicting the history of local veterans.
If you like performing arts or enjoy a good concert, stop at the Memorial City Hall.
Check Out Pottery at Martinez Pottery
Do you like pottery?
If you do, head to Martinez Pottery at North Marshall Industrial Avenue.
Martinez Pottery is a family business that features various types of hand-thrown pottery with different designs.
The shop produces a hundred to a thousand pieces daily and offers a range of components to meet different home needs.
Whether you need a new set of plates or a pet bowl, Martinez Pottery has several options for you to choose from in their collection.
Learn County History at the Harrison County Historical Museum
While there is plenty of history to explore in the city, the county also holds its share of history at the Harrison County Historical Museum.
The Harrison County Historical Museum features two locations where you can learn county history in Marshall.
You can find these exhibits at Peter Whetstone Square and East Houston.
Depending on which exhibit you visit, you can learn about general county history or the history of local veterans.
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In addition to two different locations, the Harrison County Historical Museum hosts volunteer and educational programs.
Browse Collectibles at the Weisman Center
If you’re near the downtown area around North Washington Avenue, you should check out The Weisman Center.
The Weisman Center is a department store housing a collection of stores featuring different items, including gifts, collectibles, and more.
Some items you can browse at the Weisman Center include vintage furniture, retail pieces, and candles.
There is no shortage of items you can discover at this store, whether you want to get an antique piece or a fun gift for someone.
Shop at the Blissmoor Valley Ranch Company Store
Enjoy a chance to browse fun items and get a treat by visiting the Blissmoor Valley Ranch Company Store on North Washington Avenue.
Some products you can find at this store include antique pieces, accessories, and house decor.
When you’ve had your fill of shopping, you can enjoy a selection of sweets offered by the store.
These sweets include ice cream, homemade fudge, and more.
You can also enjoy a soda or other snacks offered by the store.
If you want a fun shopping experience while exploring Marshall, the Blissmoor Valley Ranch Company Store is a top place to visit.
Find Fresh Items and Crafts at the Market on the Square
If you visit Marshall during the end of May, check out Market on the Square.
The Market on the Square is the local farmer’s market located in the city’s downtown area and mainly runs on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.
Various vendors sell products like fresh jams, honey, produce, and various handcrafted pieces.
You can also find a selection of free books, live entertainment, and other events that take place in the market.
Check out Market on the Square if you want to sample local fares and events.
Try the Smoked Meats at the Bear Creek Smokehouse
The Bear Creek Smokehouse is a top place to visit in Marshall when exploring the local food scene.
Running since 1943 and located around State Highway, the Bear Creek Smokehouse specializes in smoked meats and offers a variety of products.
In addition to different smoked meats and meat products, the smokehouse has a selection of soups, jarred goods, sweets, and more.
Aside from different food items, you can buy retail items and a cookbook.
Depending on the day, you can also get barbeque.
You can find plenty of food items to try while visiting the Bear Creek Smokehouse.
Take a Tour of the Starr Family Home State Historic Site
The Starr Family Home State Historic Site is one of the different historical spots you can find in the city.
You can visit this site by heading to West Travis Street.
The historical site dates back to the 1870s and gained recognition as a historical landmark in 1986.
The house is approximately 3.1-acres with two stories and various artifacts within.
Some of the artifacts at this site include old furnishings and clothing, among other pieces.
Several of these pieces date as far back as the 1800s and depicts the life of four generations of a family.
If you want to see local history in Marshall, the Starr Family Home State Historic Site is a top spot for curious travelers.
Visit the Horses at Karma Farms
Horse lovers need to make a stop at Karma Farms when visiting Marshall.
Karma Farms is a horse riding center and breeding farm located around U.S. Highway 59.
The farm mainly features Colonial Spanish horses.
Its mission is to preserve the breed.
Likewise, the farm offers horse riding sessions for guests to join.
The family farm spans 150 acres, and if you want to join any riding session, you need to book via a phone call.
If you want to try riding a horse or want to meet one, Karma Farms is where to go.
Park Your RV at the Cypress Valley RV Park
Among the different places to visit in Marshall, the Cypress Valley RV Park is an ideal spot for enjoying the outdoors.
You can locate the RV Park along U.S. Highway 59 and stay for as long as a month.
The park features several facilities for a fun camping experience and various options for different activities.
Whether you want to try fishing or enjoy a board game at the lodge, the RV park and staff will leave you with a comfortable stay.
Anyone who loves camping, nature, or both will find plenty to enjoy when staying at the Cypress Valley RV Park.
Play Softball at the Infield Downtown
The Infield Downtown may be limited to members, but it’s a prime place to check out for any baseball or softball fans.
The facility spans more than 6,500 square feet and sits near North Washington.
There are several batting cages available in this facility and other amenities for members.
There is also a lounge area where you can rest between games and enjoy a snack.
Check out the Infield Downtown facility if you are interested in joining the local sports scene or enjoy playing ball.
Join the Harvest Festival
The Harvest Festival is one of the many events you can join in Marshall, another way to enjoy the fall season.
The festival takes place around October and is a local celebration of the Halloween season.
There are plenty of sights and activities to enjoy at this festival, including face painting, hayrides, and a petting zoo.
You can also find plenty of kids going trick or treating and having fun with different facilities, such as a bounce house.
The Harvest Festival takes place around the downtown area and generally lasts for about a day.
Light up Your Holidays at the Wonderland of Lights
Make your holidays in Marshall brighter by checking out the Wonderland of Lights.
The Wonderland of Lights is a month-long festival that began nearly 40 years ago and featured millions of lights sparkling up the Historic 1901 Courthouse.
There is no shortage of options you can try during these activities and plenty of festival sights to enjoy.
Some sights you can find at this festival include a Santa Village, parade, and car show.
As for the different activities you can enjoy at this festival, you can try the carriage rides, train rides, and an ice rink.
You’ll find plenty of ways to enjoy the holidays during the Wonderland of Lights.
Other Things to Do Nearby
Hand Pick Produce at Panola Orchard & Gardens
Marshall may have several sights and attractions you can explore, but there are also fun activities you can check out nearby.
One place you can visit for fun activities is the Panola Orchard & Gardens in De Berry, Texas.
The farm is about 27 minutes from Marshall and features plenty of activities depending on the season.
Spring and summer are the best seasons to visit if you want fresh fruit.
Aside from picking fresh berries, you can check out other fresh and frozen fruit sold by the farm.
In addition, to produce, the farm offers a selection of artisan goods and snacks.
The Panola Orchard & Gardens is a prime spot for getting plenty of treats.
Final Thoughts
Marshall is a city with charm like any other.
Whether you like history or not, there are plenty of sites and stories you can discover in this city.
The city is more than the different spots that feature history that dates back to the 1800s.
It also offers multiple fun spots for various activities.
These spots include unique shops with various trinkets and treats and a selection of places to enjoy the outdoors.
Aside from the many places you can visit in the city, there are several events you can check out in different seasons.
Read more 33 Things to do in Fort Smith Arkansas
There is a myriad of options you can experience by visiting this Texan city.
Book your trip today and try the best things to do in Marshall, Texas.
— Update: 17-02-2023 — cohaitungchi.com found an additional article 18+ Things to Do in Marshall TX This Weekend from the website mycurlyadventures.com for the keyword fun things to do in marshall tx.
Near the Louisiana border, on the far Northeast side of Texas, sits the quaint, historic town of Marshall TX. There is a plethora of things to do in Marshall TX from hanging out in a coffee shop with good vibes to paddling around Caddo Lake, and many more things in between. Continue reading to learn more about the things to do in Marshall TX for your next weekend trip or road trip pit stop!
Grab a Cup of Joe
Joe Pine Coffee is owned and operated by two local families who value every customer’s experience and the quality of coffee that is poured into every cup. With homemade syrups for lattes and handmade pastries, Joe Pine Coffee takes their values of believing every customer is important and their experience is paramount to a whole other level. Joe Pine Coffee also only uses Texas based coffee roasters ensuring high quality coffee and a true local experience. Located in the heart of historic downtown Marshall makes this place a perfect pit stop while exploring the town.
Get a Bite to Eat in Marshall TX
You might not expect authentic Italian food in small town East Texas, but that’s exactly what you’ll find at Pietro’s Pizza. The owner’s family is originally from Italy and brings their traditional recipes as well as ingredients such as olive oil and tomatoes shipped directly from Italy. They also have the most extensive wine selection in East Texas. Stop in in the mornings as well as for some incredible Italian espresso.
Central Perks provides fresh and mouth watering food 11am-2pm on Tuesdays-Saturdays. You’ll find some great vegan dishes, tasty sandwhiches, and a famous tea made from fruit. Central Perks has a great atmosphere to enjoy and recharge in the middle of your day exploring the town!
Cajun Tex is a family owned restaurant that serves food with both a Louisiana and Texas flair. From gumbo to BBQ and everywhere in between, you are sure to find a meal that will satisfy your taste buds. Dig into Cajun chicken and waffles, gator bites, beignets, a Cajun burger, and so much more!
Bear Creek Smokehouse sincerely values family and quality when it comes to the operations and production of their smokehouse. As soon as you drive in you’ll see longhorn roaming around and even have a chance to feed them! Inside they have a full shopping area with all sorts of fun finds. This restaurant is filled with rich history and takes pride in serving delicious family style BBQ. People will make a whole day out of eating the BBQ, feeding longhorns, shopping, and playing some yard games outside. They also host special events and concerts.
The Ginocchio is a fine dining restaurant located in the Ginocchio Hotel, in downtown Marshall. If you are looking for a restaurant to treat yourself after a fun-filled day, this is the perfect spot. With their aim for excellence and top notch experience, you are sure to leave the Ginocchio full and content.
Visit a Winery in & Around Marshall TX
Enoch’s Stomp Vineyard & Winery is a beautiful place to enjoy fine wine and a delicious lunch or dinner by reservation. Their tasting room is also available on Fridays and Saturdays. The vineyards are beautiful and perfect for a lovely stroll. You are free to walk-up, hang out, and enjoy the wines, pizza, and charcuterie board they have to offer.
Walkers Mill Vineyard, a Latina co-owned winery that specializes in Muscadine grapes which the owners found wildly growing on property and is a grape that grows particularly well in East TX. You’ll find so many different varities of wines based on the grape and is perfect for sweet wine lovers.
Things to do in Marshall TX: Shop Around Town
Checkout vintage shops such as Blissmoor Company Store, The Weisman Antique and Gift Shop, and The House of Good Things, just to name a few. These are great places to find one of a kind treasures or souvenirs to take home with you to remember your fun trip to Marshall, TX..
Daytime Activities in Marshall TX
Marshall Graffiti House is a place where people are free to tap into and express their creativity in many different ways. You can spray paint whatever you want on the outside of the walls and add to the community masterpiece. This is a great place to meet talented local artists and learn about their incredible art pieces.
Catch a show at Memorial City Hall Performance Center. From plays, to musicals, to concerts, the talent inside the performance center is worth checking out! The events vary based on the day, so make sure to check their website to see who is performing when you’re in town.
Farmer’s Market on the Square is a fun activity to experience and interact with some local people and businesses. The farmer’s market is a great spot to buy produce grown around the area and unique handmade knick-knacks.
East Texas Flower Truck is a mobile flower shop that is perfect for bringing some color to your adventure and exploration of Marshall.
Panola Orchard & Gardens located just a little outside of Marshall, provides a variety of fruits and vegetables for customers to hand pick. Spend a few hours picking your favorite fruits and vegetables to take home with you and enjoy!
Head out to Caddo Lake if you are looking to do some outdoor activities such as hiking, fishing, canoeing, camping, or boating. Did you know Caddo Lake is the only natural lake in Texas? Whether you make it an overnight camping trip or a day trip, Caddo Lake is worth the visit.
Harrison County Historical Museum is a great stop to learn all about the history of Marshall and the rest of Harrison County. This museum is an awesome place to learn about how the area came to be and to learn about the people who built this community. Here you can learn about Civil Rights leaders, different prominent leaders, and the Jewish communities that called Marshall home.
Michelson Museum of Art was created to be the home of the masterpieces created by Leo Michelson. Michelson did not want to sell his artwork to a large museum in fear of them being put in storage, so this place was created for the public to appreciate and view his cherished art pieces and includes artwork from around the world. It’s another one of those small town suprises you wouldn’t expect.
Stay at an Airbnb downtown, so you can be near to all the festivities and great destinations located in the heart of the town. Renting an Airbnb can also give you an opportunity to live more like a local and get the full Marshall, TX experience.
With a wide variety of things to do in Marshall, TX, this town is absolutely worth a stop whether it be for the weekend or for a pitstop on a road trip. There is something to do for everyone. For couples, for families, for groups of friends, or any other mix of people who might find their way to Marshall. See for yourself all the things to do in Marshall TX, and enjoy all it has to offer!
