Best & Fun Things To Do + Places To Visit In Longview, Texas

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Longview, Texas
Longview, Texas / Adam Moss / Flickr

East Texas offers as many fun travel destinations as any part of the state. Among its thriving cities is the wonderful Longview, the county seat of Gregg County.

The small city is known for its piney woods, rolling hills, and friendly community.

It’s easy to connect with the folks and create good lifetime memories in Longview. Besides being one of the most liveable Texas towns, it also offers many fun things to do and places to visit for dear travelers.

People from all over the country visit Longview for its festivities, especially the Great Texas Balloon Race in June and Fireworks & Freedom Celebration in July.

If it’s your first time traveling to the city, coincide your schedule with these celebrations to get a full experience of Longview. However, if you’re looking for a simple, relaxing weekend, the city is full of day-to-day activities, too!

Whether visiting with family, friends, or alone, here’s a list of the best things to do and places to visit in Longview, Texas.

Balloon Adventures USA

Balloon Adventures USA, Longview, Texas
Balloon Adventures USA, Longview, Texas

If there’s any place in the country to experience a hot air balloon ride, come to Longview, Texas.

It’s time to knock this off your bucket list! Balloon Adventures USA will help you through the process of realizing this dream.

Since 1977, Balloon Adventures USA has given visitors a scenic ride across the sky overlooking the piney woods of northeast Texas. They are a full-service hot air balloon company run by professionals, so you can assure you are in good hands.

The company operates a fleet of hot air balloons with the largest accommodation of up to four passengers at a time. Unlike other forms of aviation, you won’t feel turbulence as the vessel lifts off from the ground. Riding the hot air balloon is as smooth as butter, like a leaf soaring along the wind’s direction.

Meet your pilot, Dr. Bussey, who first introduced balloon fest and hot air balloon rides in Longview.

Grab your Hot Air Balloon boarding pass and set sail 2,000 feet above the ground. Watch the pristine lakes and piney woods from a bird’s eye point of view. Enjoy the breeze from up there like it’s the first time it touched your face.

Balloon Adventures USA offers flights for both sunset and sunrise over Longview. If this experience doesn’t make your trip a memory to last forever, it’s a doubt something else will. 

Address: 801 N. 2nd Street, Longview, TX 75601, United States

Belcher Center

Belcher Center, Longview, Texas
Belcher Center, Longview, Texas

Witness a live events lineup of East Texas performers at Belcher Center, a premier performance center in Longview, Texas.

This event venue in the city welcomes residents, visitors, and surrounding communities of Longview for a night of world-class shows.

Located on the campus of LeTourneau University, the Belcher Center is an awesome place to take your children for classic entertainment. It is perhaps the heart of performing arts in Longview and home to the Longview Ballet Theater and the Longview Symphony.

Catch a show during one of your visits to see an array of unmatched acts and their artists. Past shows on its stage include the Pink Floyd Laser Show and the Show of Neil Berg’s 50 years of Rock and Roll.

There is no bad seating in this venue, with professionally designed architecture and theater. It also does not lack essential facilities like a dressing room, prop and staging areas, and rehearsal rooms.

Its building is the largest single-building capital campaign at LeTourneau University in over 60 years.

The Belcher Center, short for S.E. Belcher Jr. Chapel and Performance Center, also functions as LeTourneau’s chapel. Three times every week, the students gather in this venue to watch Christian speakers and music groups.

Once you’re there, notice the historical items casually displayed on the campus alongside the relaxing, peaceful oases.

Address: 2100 S Mobberly Ave, Longview, TX 75602, United States

Coffee Mill

Coffee Mill, Longview, Texas
Coffee Mill, Longview, Texas

Get a cup of fresh and genuine coffee in Longview’s first coffee shop to serve cold brew, smoothies, and espresso.

Coffee Mill is an American slash British and cafe slash diner store in Longview, Texas.

They serve locally roasted espresso with over 60 flavors customed to your taste. There are healthy and sugar-free options as well as non-dairy products for your dietary needs. You will absolutely love their sweet offerings, such as frappes, ice cream shakes, and smoothies.

If you are in the mood for a light breakfast, they serve the crunchiest avocado toast and softest muffins. Choose from seven varieties of bagels perfect to pair with their espresso shakes or iced Mocha Granita with Vanilla Whipped Cream.

In addition, their menu features more playful flavors you couldn’t wait to try.

For nearly 30 years, Coffee Mill has been a local spot for relaxation, bonding, and coffee. A conversation over a cup of coffee is always a good plan!

Their over-the-top service and friendly staff are also why their shop is often packed. They will give you the best coffee experience in Longview, Texas!

Address: 2001 Gilmer Rd, Longview, TX 75604, United States

Fairhaven Vineyard

Fairhaven Vineyard, Longview, Texas
Fairhaven Vineyard, Longview, Texas

When it comes to wine, don’t settle for any less than first-class. At Fairhaven Vineyard, you’ll get not only the best of wines but a taste of historic Texas in a bottle.

Located at the heart of Sabine Valley, Fairhaven Vineyard offers handmade wines from handpicked estate grapes. Its location, 34 minutes from Longview, Texas, gets you to experience a drive through the highlands.

While it’s off the beaten path amidst the piney woods of East Texas, Fairhaven is generally easy to get to. Its location at the back of East Texas gives access to a laid-back and peaceful scenery. If a serene, quality time with nature is what you’re looking for, you have arrived at the right place!

The vineyard speaks a lot about the quality you are getting, situated amidst abundant flora and fauna and fresh spring waters.

Their flavors vary from a great blend of dry to sweet wines to very distinctive tastes. Pour a glass of the Texas Holiday Gluhwein, Callisto Rose, or the Blanc DuBlanc! If any suits your taste, you can get a whole bottle and stock up on great wines.

For the best experience, pair them with Fairhaven’s imported cheese or fresh fruit plates, organic bread, or meat.

Their vineyard is also a hit for special occasions and makes a great location for private events or parties.

To top that, a tasting room and wood-fired pizza offerings are coming in the vineyard very soon!

Address: 5340 South FM 2869 Hawkins, TX 75765, United States

Gregg County Historical Museum

Gregg County Historical Museum, Longview, Texas
Gregg County Historical Museum, Longview, Texas

Dive into the history of Longview through the corners of Gregg County Historical Museum, located in the historic Everett Building.

Gregg County Historical Museum houses some of the most interesting exhibits telling the history of Longview, Texas. This includes the Buddy Calvin Jones Caddo and the Arthur Northcutt Brown Military collection, the museum’s largest exhibits.

The building where the museum sits is in itself historical, dating way back to 1910. When it was abandoned and left to rot in 1979, a generous Longview citizen bought and donated the building to the city.

Today, the building with pink granite columns, limestone trim, tiled floors, and a tin ceiling has been restored to its glory.

If you’re passing through Longview, stop by to see permanent and rotating exhibits telling basic facts about Gregg County. The museum also hosts several small to large events each year you might want to check out when you come.

The building is partitioned into rooms of unique displays, like the LeTourneau room, a military section, and a room of Caddo Indian pottery. The Caddo collection includes about 450 ceramic pots and jars, and other vessels.

There’s also a children’s section, an old radio station, and a log cabin. Old and young will have fun strolling the building for its interesting wide selection with a touch of mystery.

Address: 214 N Fredonia St, Longview, TX 75601, United States

Greggton Antique Mall

Greggton Antique Mall, Longview, Texas
Greggton Antique Mall, Longview, Texas

The Greggton Antique Mall is not only the largest antique mall in Longview, with an area of 7,000 square feet. It’s also one of the oldest structures in East Texas.

The mall occupies the old First State Bank of Greggton and Edelman’s Furniture buildings from the 40s just across the street. With over 30 antique dealers, Greggton Antique Mall offers a plethora of vintage collectibles and items only in Longview, Texas.

Whether shopping for furniture, glassware, home decor, or rare eclectic items around Longview, you know where to go! The place is also packed with a good set of ceramics and pottery.

What makes the store unique is how it still has the remnants of its previous tenants. For instance, the original Art Deco flavor of the old bank and its vault remains a part of the building.

But way before this, the building was also an office supply store and office of the Longview Lens newspaper.

Moving on to their largest display, Greggton Antique Mall houses a Military Marketplace for military memorabilia in East Texas.

If you’re a fond collector of military artifacts, like medals, photographs, and letters, you’re lucky to have found this gem! They also have a mini museum displaying exhibits to honor the country’s veterans.

Step into history and make a detour to the historic Greggton Antique Mall in Longview, Texas.

Address: 3422 W Marshall Ave, Longview, TX 75604, United States

Heritage Wine & Spirits

Heritage Wine & Spirits, Longview, Texas
Heritage Wine & Spirits, Longview, Texas

Check out a great selection of the tastiest liquors from people’s no. 1 liquor store in Longview.

Heritage Wine & Spirits has made quite a reputation in Longview, Texas, for its top-of-the-line liquor, beer, wine, cigars, and bar accessories. The locally-owned store carries over 7000 products made with love, passion, and a touch of heritage.

Their doors are always open for travelers looking to fill their coolers to bring on a day trip. Various flavors of their unique craft beer would make a good cooler for a day in the park or lake.

If it’s a romantic getaway you seek, their selection of fine wines is nothing short of flavorsome! Meanwhile, if you want to play with flavors for a fun night, they have over 1000 spirits to make the best cocktails.

Get a little bolder and go for a bottle of whiskey and tequila! From high to reasonable prices, they have everything curated for partygoers and fun seekers. Rest assured that they have your favorite vodka or scotch stocked for every time you call.

Further, no need to worry about a bad glass of wine. Their climate-controlled wine cellar stores the finest wines that remain fresh until uncorked.

Heritage is always brewing new beers, seasonal or limited, to provide you with different experiences every week. If you’re looking for something specific, they will find it for you!

Address: 2000 N Eastman Rd, Longview, TX 75601, United States

Lear Park

Lear Park, Longvile, Texas
Lear Park, Longview, Texas

Of all development in the small town of Longview, Lear Park has got to be one of the most successful improvements.

This 182-acre regional sports complex in Longview, Texas, was first acquired in 1998. Two years later, the park received a huge boost in terms of facilities and amenities to serve Longview residents and visitors.

Today, Lear Park is a regional venue for sports events like softball, baseball, and soccer. These large sports fields remained well-maintained regardless of the countless events held in this park.

In addition, it provides an exceptional spot for families and friends for many recreation opportunities. Lear Park provides access to walking trails, a fishing pier, kids’ playgrounds, and Jack Mann Splash Pad.

The splash pad is obviously a hit for kids (and adults) for its cool water features, themed play areas, and pavilions.

Visiting the park wouldn’t be as fun without the concession stands carrying a variety of delicious snacks and refreshments. You can celebrate a birthday or any family event in the park if you want to!

With the additional spaces for flexibility allocated by the city, large groups or local youth leagues can utilize them for wide causes.

No matter which point of view you look, Lear Park is by far one of the best parks you can visit in Longview, Texas!

Address: 100 H G Mosley Pkwy, Longview, TX 75604, United States

Longview Arboretum and Nature Center

Longview Arboretum and Nature Center, Longview, Texas
Longview Arboretum and Nature Center, Longview, Texas

Enjoy the views of flora and fauna while supporting a local cause at the Longview Arboretum and Nature Center.

This 26-acre park at the heart of Longview, Texas, is part of the city’s fundraising project. In partnership with private and local businesses, the “master plan” is to cultivate the park’s indigenous wildlife, plants, and recreation. For the past years, the arboretum had never been better.

Walk along small cliffs and enjoy the shade of lush trees at the arboretum garden. In just a short drive from downtown, you’ll experience a beautiful attraction near the Longview Convention Complex and along Grace Creek.

The colorful flowers in the garden seemingly put on a show as they blossom year-round, including the tulips and daffodils. They almost cover the trails and benches with overwhelming sights, like straight out of a color book.

Luckily for the photo and horticulturist enthusiast, the garden makes a perfect frame in your shots. If you prefer to capture a professional-like picture of the garden, you don’t have to lift a finger. The park is picture-perfect from every angle and beautiful in its own way.

Find a favorite spot in the Longview Arboretum for a good place to read or journal. Let this be your new happy place whenever you are in town!

Address: 706 W Cotton St, Longview, TX 75604, United States

Longview Museum of Fine Arts

Longview Museum of Fine Arts, Longview, Texas
Longview Museum of Fine Arts, Longview, Texas

See beautiful art in the heart of downtown Longview that depicts the city’s history.

Longview Museum Fine Arts offer a wide collection of sophisticated art in various forms. It’s home to nearly 1,000 permanent collections from the 19th century until the present. Among the pieces, you can find paintings, photographs, sculptures, woodcuts, lithographs, serigraphs, and early Texas regional art collections.

The museum showcases historically significant works of Texas artists annually, including the works of contemporary artists from across the country. If it’s your first time visiting the museum, your first impression will exceed your expectation for quality beyond aesthetic.

Visit the museum’s main gallery, the Wrather Gallery, to see permanent local and international exhibits. For traveling and temporary exhibitions, you have at least six weeks to peruse these jewels at the premier galleries – Martin-Stoudt and Barrow-Cave Gallery.

Meanwhile, the rotating exhibits by the Sculpture Garden are available on a yearly basis, along with other annual events. You may want to catch these special events, such as the annual Student Invitational and art education classes!

Put this museum on your list of things to do (and see!) in Longview, Texas, for a thought-provoking experience.

Longview Museum of Fine Arts brings together national Texas artists in one place!

Address: 215 E Tyler St, Longview, TX 75601, United States

Oil Horse Brewing Company, LLC

Oil Horse Brewing Company, LLC, Longview, Texas
Oil Horse Brewing Company, LLC, Longview, Texas

Do you ever wonder what gluten-free beer tastes like?

Oil Horse Brewing Company makes craft beers gluten-free without compromising taste. If you’re unsure if it’s worth a dime, you can ask for their samples and try them one by one!

OHBC focuses on handcrafting an exceptional craft beer and making you feel anything but out of place through their community. To give you a good experience, they ensure their place is inviting to locals and visitors with its warm atmosphere.

Open seven days a week, OHBC is a good spot to relax downtown with friends for a quick beer. For a drive-through town like Longview, their taproom makes a convenient stop just across from a coffee shop.

The bartender’s seal of recommendation includes the 1877 Irish Red, Bud Light, or Lone Star. You’re lucky if you’re able to try these flavors because they are almost always sold out!

More importantly, don’t miss their special events, which vary every month. Their usuals are comedy and trivia nights, improv, live music, and Theology on Tap.

Theology on Tap, held every first Tuesday of each month, is a family-friendly event where you get together with the Longview community. Discuss pressing issues and walks of life with the folks, including social and religious matters.

Oil Horse Brewing Company is more than just having locally brewed drinks, but enjoying an environment where “No one belongs more than you.”

Address: 101 W Tyler St, Longview, TX 75601, United States

Paul G. Boorman Trail

Paul G. Boorman Trail, Longview, Texas
Paul G. Boorman Trail, Longview, Texas

Make it a hobby to walk the best trails of Paul G. Boorman, one of the longest walking trails in Longview, Texas.

An adventurous hike with the family on this 3-mile trail can be one of the regular things you can do around town. It runs along the Grace Creek corridor through Lois Jackson Park with views of a wooded area.

The Boorman Trail is generally considered an easy route with a paved out-and-back trail, which can take an hour and 40 minutes. You can access the trails from many access points, depending on your location.

Make a side trip to one of their picnic areas with drinking fountains and restrooms. The facilities in the park include a pavilion, playground, and fitness equipment. Your furry pet can tag along, too, and play around the dog park.

Named after the long-serving Longview employee, Boorman provides varying trails and terrains for the community to enjoy with some flexibility. Absorb plenty of scenic views as you walk, run, or bike its paths.

The series of trails is tucked perfectly in a wooded area, so you don’t feel the bustling downtown. Don’t be surprised to occasionally spot a deer along the trail and many kinds of wildlife.

This part of Longview is practically a regular activity for nearby residents, so take time to smile and greet one as you go!

Address: 919 West Marshall Avenue, Longview, TX 75604, United States

Pietro’s Neighborhood Pizzeria

Pietro's Neighborhood Pizzeria, Longview, Texas
Pietro’s Neighborhood Pizzeria, Longview, Texas

Welcome to the best place for a delicious pizza pie in the neighborhood and the best in Longview!

From Small Bites to Italian and Pasta Entrees, Pietro’s Neighborhood Pizzeria serves food fresh from the oven. There’s nowhere else to get a delightful Stromboli, Brooklyn Deli, or Supreme than in Pietro’s!

They also have some of the best Authentic Italian and New York Style Food in East Texas.

Get a slice of Italy in East Texas from their quaint little store. Cross out the bestsellers off their menu, such as the oven-toasted Ham & Mozzarella, Italian Sub, or Steve’s Steak & Cheese.

For a fun dining experience, build your own pasta using their bowtie, fettuccini, or penne cuts. Next, select a sauce ranging from marinara, creamy alfredo, or bolognese! Try to mix it up on every visit and find your favorite.

Pietro’s Neighborhood Pizzeria will make you feel at home with its cozy, comfortable atmosphere. Pair your main course with their specialty salad and beverages for a night of satisfying burps!

Address: 2418 Gilmer Rd, Longview, TX 75604, United States

Putt-Putt Golf and Games

Putt-Putt Golf and Games, Longview, Texas
Putt-Putt Golf and Games, Longview, Texas / Joel Kramer / Flicker

Come down the 36-hole veteran mini golf chain in Longview, Texas! You can enjoy this family-friendly space in town anytime with friends and family.

Putt-Putt Golf and Games offer more than just golfing. There’s a wide range of recreation you can do here, including arcade games, batting cages, and laser tag! They make recreation around Longview easy with their goal to provide as many fun activities for the community as possible.

Alongside their exciting games are amusing attractions in surrounding waterfalls, greens, flowers, wildlife, and calm streams.

Get the latest video and redemption games at their Gameroom with the best selection in the area. Meanwhile, grab a bat and hit balls in their batting cage at varying speeds!

If you need to go but have more tickets to spare, you’re free to return anytime with their non-expiry tickets!

Address: 2630 Bill Owens Pkwy, Longview, TX 75604, United States

The Mud Hut

The Mud Hut, Longview, Texas
The Mud Hut, Longview, Texas

Paint your own pottery at a local pottery studio in Longview, Texas.

The Mud Hut provides the community of East Texas with an exciting experience of creation and art in a do-it-yourself way.

Regardless of skill, age, and artistic ability, feel free to pick a brush and paint an item using kiln-fired glazes. The Mud Hut will be happy to fire it for you with a kiln to give it a bright shine. After a week, you can pick up and take home your one-of-a-kind piece directly from the studio.

Since 2003, people of Longview and surrounding communities have come to The Mud Hut for a unique, hands-on “painting with a twist.”

It hosted many birthday parties in the past involving pottery, paint, and individual style! Whether you’re in the mood for some get-together or want to enjoy it alone, the studio has everything you’ll like.

Moreover, make gift-giving meaningful by creating a unique piece within the welcoming, warm walls of the Longview art and pottery studio. While at it, enjoy music and refreshments to make you more invested in your art.

Bring out your creativity, make the colors pop, and enjoy the beautiful solace in The Mud Hut!

Address: 103 W Loop 281 Ste 410, Longview, TX 75605, United States

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