We've curated the perfect day for Texas history lovers. Look below to see how you can experience history first-hand at Caddo Mounds, Mission Dolores, and Starr Family Home state historic sites. Then stay awhile to visit more heritage attractions, try some tasty places to eat, and rest your road warrior head at some unique places to stay the night.
Want to see and do more? There's lots to do in the Texas Forest Trail Region! Learn more about visiting our cities, heritage sites and attractions, and exciting events on our website.
Living History Events at Caddo Mounds State Historic Sites
May 24: Caddo Traditions and Rivercane Webinar
Jackie Bullard discusses her place-based, cultural, and ecological research concerning the importance of the rivercane to the Caddo people and their traditions.
Where to Stay
• The Fredonia Hotel: This historic hotel, originally built in 1955, has been beautifully restored and offers comfortable accommodations, dining options, and event spaces. Location: 200 North Fredonia Street Nacogdoches, TX 75961 Phone: (936) 564-1234 Website: https://www.thefredonia.com/
Where to Eat
• Dolli's Diner: Located in downtown Nacogdoches, this nostalgic 1950s-themed diner serves up classic American fare in a fun atmosphere. Location: 116 S Pecan St, Nacogdoches, TX 75961 Phone: (936) 305-5007 Website: http://dollisdiner.com/
Other Places to Visit
• Mission Tejas State Park: About 20 miles north of Alto, this park features a replica of Mission San Francisco de los Tejas, the first Spanish mission in Texas, established in 1690. The park offers camping, hiking, and picnicking opportunities, as well as historical exhibits. Location: 19343 State Highway 21 E.
Grapeland, TX 75844 Phone: (936) 687-2394 Website: Mission Tejas State Park — Texas Parks & Wildlife Department
• The Stone Fort Museum: Located in nearby Nacogdoches, this museum is a replica of a building from the early 1800s that served multiple purposes, including as a trading post and a military headquarters. The museum features exhibits on local history and hosts various events throughout the year. Location: 1808 Alumni Dr., Nacogdoches, TX 75962 Phone: (936) 468-2408 Website: The Stone Fort Museum (sfasu.edu)
Living History Events at Mission Dolores State Historic Site
May 25: Manuscripts and Missions Book Club - May's Book: "There Ain't No Such Animal And Other East Texas Tales" by Bill Brett
Gather round with the Book Club for a discussion of how folklore and technology often intersected in May's book of the month!
Where to Stay
Fredonia Hotel (Nacogdoches)
Where to Eat
Other Things to Do
Living History Events at Star Family Home
May 25: Past and Play Picnics: Marble Mania - FREE family activities
Pack your picnic lunch and join us for our FREE monthly family activity. This month join us in making your own clay marbles and learn how to play!
Where to Stay
• The Three Oaks Bed & Breakfast: This Victorian-era home, built in the late 1800s, has been lovingly restored and transformed into a cozy bed and breakfast. Guests can enjoy comfortable rooms, a delicious breakfast, and the charming ambiance of this historic home. Location: 609 N Washington Ave. Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 935-6777 Website: https://m.facebook.com/profile...
• The Wisteria Garden Inn: A historic bed and breakfast located in a beautifully restored Victorian home, The Wisteria Garden Inn offers an elegant and comfortable stay for visitors. The inn is surrounded by lush gardens, providing a serene setting for relaxation. Location: 215 E Rusk St, Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 240-8390 Website: https://wisteriagarden.com/
• Weisman Mansion: Beautiful Victorian built in 1901 just a few blocks from historic downtown Marshall, Texas. The Weisman Mansion is named for Joe and Lena Weisman, owners of the Weisman Department Store and who built this amazing Victorian full of history and detail. Location: 313 S Washington Ave, Marshall, TX 75670 Website: https://www.facebook.com/thewe...
• Roseville Bed & Breakfast: Located on Highway 80, five miles west of Marshall, Texas. The house sits on a 10-acre estate and is beautifully landscaped with day lilies, roses, and perennials, and was originally built in 1935. Location: 6843 US-80 W, Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 935-5000 Website: https://www.rosevillebedandbre...
Where to Eat
• Central Perks: Located in the historic Weisman Center building, Central Perks is a popular café offering a variety of sandwiches, salads, soups, and specialty coffees. The building itself is an important part of Marshall's history, having been constructed in the late 1800s. Location: 211 N Washington Ave A, Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 934-9902 Website: https://centralperks.us/
• The Blue Frog Grill: Located in a historic building dating back to the 1890s, The Blue Frog Grill offers a unique dining experience with an eclectic menu featuring Southern cuisine with a twist. The building's history adds to the charm of this popular eatery. Location: 208 N Washington Ave, Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 923-9500 Website: https://www.thebluefrogbyshawn...
• Cajun Tex: Combining the flavors of Cajun and Tex-Mex cuisines, Cajun Tex is situated in a historic building that has been a part of the Marshall community for over a century. The restaurant is known for its warm and inviting atmosphere as well as its delicious food. Location: 104 W Grand Ave, Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 935-7719 Website: https://www.cajuntx.com/
• The Ginocchio: Located in the historic Ginocchio Hotel, right across the tracks from the beautiful Marshall Depot, the restaurant presents fine dining and cocktails in a truly unique and memorable setting. Location: 707 N. Washington Ave., Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 927-1400 Website: http://www.theginocchio.com/
• Pazzeria by Pietro's: Located in the historic downtown, this Italian restaurant serves both lunch and dinner. Location: 101 W Austin St, Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 472-4555 Website: https://pietros.net/pazzeria-m...
Other Places to Visit
Besides the Starr Family Home, here are some other suggestions for historic places to visit around Marshall, Texas:
• Harrison County Historical Museum: Located in the Old Harrison County Courthouse, this museum showcases the history of the area, featuring exhibits on Native American history, Civil War memorabilia, and local art. Location: 1 Peter Whetstone Square, Marshall, TX 75671 Phone: (903) 935-8417 Website: https://harrisoncountymuseum.o...
• Texas & Pacific Railway Museum: Housed in the former Texas & Pacific Railway Depot, this museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the railroad in Marshall and the surrounding area. The museum features exhibits on the development of the railroad and its impact on local communities. Location: 800 North Washington Street Suite 2, Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 938-9495 Website: https://marshalltxdepot.com/
• The Ginocchio Historic District: This historic district in Marshall features beautiful examples of Victorian architecture, including the Ginocchio Hotel and the former Texas & Pacific Railway Depot. Take a stroll through the area to appreciate the well-preserved historic buildings. 707 N. Washington Ave., Marshall, TX 75670 Website: http://www.theginocchio.com/
• Wiley College: Founded in 1873, Wiley College is a historically black college with a rich history. The campus features several historic buildings, including the Old Main Building and the Julius S. Scott Sr. Chapel. Location: 711 Wiley Ave, Marshall, TX 75670 Phone: (903) 927-3300 Website: https://www.wileyc.edu/
• Caddo Mounds State Historic Site: Located about 70 miles southwest of Marshall, this historic site is home to ancient Native American mounds built by the Caddo people between 800 and 1300 AD. The site features a museum, interpretive trails, and guided tours. Location: 1649 TX-21, Alto, TX 75925 Phone: (936) 858-3218 Website: http://www.thc.texas.gov/histo...
• Jefferson, Texas: A short drive east from Marshall, Jefferson is a small historic town known for its well-preserved 19th-century architecture, antique shops, and charming bed and breakfasts. Notable attractions include the Jefferson Historical Museum, the Jay Gould Railroad Car, the Excelsior House Hotel, the Marion County Courthouse. Website: https://visitjeffersontexas.co...