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Gateway to the Piney Woods
Are you looking for an exciting adventure in the Lone Star State? Then look no further than Longview, Texas. From its gorgeous parks and outdoor spaces to delicious restaurants, and nightlife, Longview has something for everyone. Get ready to explore all the beautiful things Longview offers – you won’t be disappointed!
Longview’s History
Longview, Texas, is a city with a rich and long history. Founded in the 1840s and 1850s, it became an officially incorporated town in 1871 and has served as the county seat of Gregg County since 1873.
Gregg County, Texas, is located in the eastern part of the state. As of the 2020 census, its population was 124,239, and its county seat is Longview. The area was initially settled in 1870 when the Southern Pacific Railroad constructed a station in Longview. The region is part of the East Texas Piney Woods. It boasts a variety of attractions, including the Gregg County Historical Museum. Residents can access Longview, Gregg County, and East Texas current statistics on the Northeast Texas Public Health District website. Property appraisal records are available for review at the Gregg County Appraisal District Office in Longview.
The area was primarily characterized by hilly land. Still, it became a hub for East Texas outdoor recreation and leisure travel. Longview is known for its fine dining and historic downtown. It has also become synonymous with the oil industry, enabling its economy to remain strong and diverse. The city is home to numerous oil derricks, refineries, and other related businesses that have been integral to the state of Texas’ development. Longview’s past is one of resilience and perseverance, an essential part of the state’s present and future.
The Best Time to Visit Longview
Visitors to Longview, Texas, will find the best time of year to experience the culture, festivals, and events during the summer months. Various events and festivals occur throughout the summer, including the Fireworks and Freedom Celebration, Rockport Fulton Market Days, Austin’s biggest festivals and events, Lubbock’s official events calendar, Houston’s major festivals, and Red Steagall Cowboy Gathering. Each of these events has something unique to offer visitors, allowing them to explore the vibrant culture of Texas. Whether you’re looking for a day of fun or a weekend adventure, Longview, Texas, is sure to have something for everyone.
Rockport Fulton Market Days
Rockport Fulton Market Days is a popular monthly event held in Rockport, Texas, at the Rockport Festival Grounds. Every third Saturday of the month, visitors can enjoy an array of vendors, artisan goods, arts and crafts, and more. The market prides itself in recruiting the best local Texas Coast vendors and provides excellent food and entertainment. Hours of operation are Monday – Saturday, 8 am to 6 pm, and Sunday, 10 am to 4 pm. With over 100 vendors, this is one of the best markets on the Texas Coast that everyone should experience.
Houston’s major festivals
Houston’s Longview, Texas, is an exciting place to visit, with many major festivals and events occurring throughout the year. February is a great time to visit, with the Bourbon & Bowties festival at The University of Texas at Austin. Visitors can enjoy various activities during this festival, such as wine tastings, professional custom framing, live music performances, and more. The FireAnt Festival and Marshall Festivals are also popular events in Longview during summer. Lastly, the Japanese Festival of Houston takes place in December. It features traditional music and dance performances, martial arts demonstrations, food stalls, and more. Whether you’re looking for an educational experience or want to have fun, there’s something for everyone in Longview, Texas!
Attractions
The city of Longview, Texas, offers many attractions for visitors. A must-see for those visiting the area is the Gregg County Historical Museum, located in the historic Everett Building in downtown Longview. Guests can explore numerous exhibitions illustrating Gregg County’s development with various artifacts and displays. Another great spot to visit is the Maude Cobb Convention and Activity Center, just two miles from downtown. Visitors can find different events and activities, such as music concerts and festivals. Lastly, visiting the Longview Museum of Fine Arts is necessary for those exploring local art galleries and collections. With so much to do in Longview, guests will have an enjoyable experience!
Gregg County Historical Museum
The Gregg County Historical Museum is located in downtown Longview, two blocks north of the Texas and Pacific RR tracks and two blocks south of Gregg County. Established in 1964, this museum connects to the region’s pre-history with a collection of artifacts preserved and cataloged in climate-controlled conditions. Visitors to the museum can get an insight into the area’s history, with reviews available for those interested. The Everett Building at 214 North Fredonia Street stands near this museum. It adds to its value as an essential part of Longview’s history.
Maude Cobb Convention
The Maude Cobb Convention & Activity Center is a 40,000-square-foot facility in Longview, Texas. It is the perfect venue for all types of events, with parties ranging from $60 to $1900 per event. The center has five auxiliary activity rooms, a conference room, and a ticket booth. Eventtective has party, meeting, and wedding packages available for booking at the Maude Cobb Convention Center. They also offer total event space and meeting rooms for rent, which can be requested through their website. The center is also home to many concerts annually, with tickets available online. The Maude Cobb Convention & Activity Center is an excellent choice for any event or gathering.
Longview Museum of Fine Arts
The Longview Museum of Fine Arts (LMFA) is a non-profit organization in downtown Longview, Texas. It was founded in 1958 by the Junior Service League of Longview and has specialized in regional art from 1940 – the present. The museum’s permanent collection consists of over 400 pieces of artwork, including drawings, intaglio, painting, photographs, pottery, lithographs, and more. Admission to the museum is free for children under 12 years old. Visitors can also take advantage of discounts for groups or special events. The LMFA is a great place to learn about the history of East Texas art and make great memories with family and friends.
Outdoor Activities
Longview, Texas, offers an array of activities for those seeking an outdoor adventure. There is something for everyone, from hiking trails to golf courses, fishing spots, and playgrounds. Golfers of all ages can enjoy a scenic round of golf on the two 18-hole courses at the local 413-acre course. Those looking to hike can explore the many trails, while birders can glimpse some rare species. Families looking to spend time together can find plenty of places to go fishing with their kids or take advantage of the off-leash dog area and disc golf course. With so much to explore and discover, Longview is the perfect destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
Local Food
Longview, Texas is a foodie paradise; the best places to eat will satisfy even the most discerning palate! Dudley’s Cafe Grab & Geaux is one of the top restaurants in Longview, with delicious Cajun dishes that are sure to please. Take advantage of the delectable Cannoli with its perfectly crispy crust for dessert. For something a bit more unique, try Fuzzy’s Taco Shop for their famous tacos. Watch for more East Texas hidden food gems, like Pizza King’s delicious Italian cuisine or Jucys Hamburgers for classic American fare. Don’t forget about Bodacious Bar-B-Q for a finger-licking barbecue or Lil Thai House for some exotic flavors. There’s something for everyone in Longview, so experience all the fantastic eateries this city offers!
Dudley’s Cafe Grab & Geaux
Dudley’s Cafe Grab & Geaux in Longview, Texas, is an incredible place to visit for a delicious and unique dining experience. With a variety of menu options, there is something for everyone. The atmosphere is warm and inviting, and the staff is friendly and attentive. Their signature dish, “Chicken and Waffles,” is a must-try. The flavors are unique, and the portion size is generous too! The restaurant also offers a variety of other dishes like burgers, salads, and sandwiches that are sure to please any palate. Furthermore, Dudley’s Cafe Grab & Geaux has an extensive wine list with something for everyone! Whether you’re in the mood for a light lunch or an extravagant feast, Dudley’s Cafe Grab & Geaux in Longview will not disappoint.
The Delectable Cannoli
Longview, Texas, is a great place to explore the delectable Cannoli! The Cannoli Factory offers authentic, old-world Italian-style cannoli cream and shells, gourmet cakes, cheesecakes, and Italian desserts. Montgomery Bakehouse makes delicious homemade cookies to order that melt in your mouth. Papacita’s is known for its family ambiance and deliciously seasoned food. Fabulous Cookies in Longview, TX, also offers delicious treats to enjoy. Tripadvisor reviews show that Corpus Christi’s Best Cannolis are some of the best to explore. With long summer days and beautiful East Texas sunsets, it can be the perfect spot to relax and enjoy the flavors of Italy.
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop
Fuzzy’s Taco Shop in Longview, Texas, is the perfect place to enjoy delicious Baja-style tacos, breakfast tacos, and burritos. With their special delivery and pickup options, you’ll enjoy all the flavors of Fuzzies at home. Not only do they have amazing tacos, but also their Chips & Queso, which is a basket of fresh tortilla chips seasoned with Fuzzy Dust and served with Queso.
Pizza King
Longview, Texas, is proud to welcome Pizza King To Go! Located at 1100 E Marshall Ave, this new to-go location opened at 3 pm. It offered all your favorite Pizza King fare for carry-outs. The restaurant is conveniently located in the heart of Longview. It provides a delicious and convenient way to enjoy the classic pizzas from Pizza King. With their friendly staff and excellent food selection, ordering from Pizza King To Go will surely be a great experience for everyone!
Juicy Hamburgers
Longview, Texas, is also the home to a popular restaurant named “Jucys Hamburgers.” With two convenient locations, one on Marshall Ave and another on Gilmer Rd, Jucys is the perfect spot for a delicious hamburger. The restaurant is open daily from 6 am-10 pm and offers delivery services through DoorDash and ASAP. Their classic Junior Hamburger is available for just $10.99, making it a great value. Customers will find many reasons to love Jucys Hamburgers with their generous portions, excellent customer service, and unbeatable prices. Tripadvisor has even rated it the number one restaurant in Longview with an impressive 4.5 out of 5 stars.
Bodacious Bar-B-Q
Bodacious Bar-B-Q is a restaurant that has been serving up delicious barbeque since the 1960s. The restaurant prepares its fresh barbeque daily using its own blend of spices. Customers can opt for delivery or pickup and expect generous portions when ordering. Reviews of the restaurant consistently praise its generous servings and authentic flavor. Bodacious Bar-B-Q is sure to satisfy even the hungriest of appetites. Lastly,
Lil Thai House
Lil Thai House is a popular destination for authentic Thai cuisine. Located at 212 N Fredonia St, the restaurant prides itself on its fresh ingredients and complete attention to the cooking process. Their menu features all the classic favorites, such as Tom Yum Gai, and prices range from 8.99 to 9.99. Customers rave about the delicious food and friendly service. Reviews on websites like TripAdvisor consistently rate Lil Thai House with 4.5 stars out of 5. Whether a quick lunch or a special evening out, Longview’s Lil Thai House will surely delight with its delicious food and excellent service.
Accommodation Options
When finding a place to stay in Longview, Texas, travelers have plenty of options. Several hotels are in the area, such as Tru by Hilton Longview, Hampton Inn & Suites Longview North, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham I-20 Longview South, and Super 8 by Wyndham Longview/I-20. For a more homey experience, travelers can look into bed & breakfasts or vacation rentals, such as those available from Best Western Plus Longview or La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Longview North. With so many choices, finding the perfect place to stay in Longview is easy.
Through by Hilton Longview
Tru by Hilton Longview in Longview, Texas, is a family-friendly hotel offering contemporary amenities such as free WiFi with remote printing, complimentary breakfast, and a fitness center. Located near US 259 and Loop 281, the hotel provides easy access to numerous shops and restaurants. Guests can also look forward to a complimentary continental breakfast, a grocery/convenience store, and a terrace. In-room WiFi is available for those who wish to stay connected. The hotel features 61 guest rooms and 50 candid photos. Rates start at $79 per night, making Tru by Hilton Longview an excellent value for those looking for comfortable accommodations in Longview.
Hampton Inn
The Hampton Inn in Longview, Texas, is conveniently located just off Interstate 20, three miles from LeTourneau University. Guests at the hotel can enjoy free high-speed internet access, a complimentary hot breakfast, and easy access to nearby attractions such as the Gregg County Courthouse Square and East Texas Regional Airport, just five miles away. Guests can also take advantage of exclusive discounts, deals, and reviews for Hampton Inn in Longview when booking their stay. The hotel is also just seven minutes away from East Texas Regional Airport and 17 minutes away from Longview, TX (GGG-East Texas Regional).
Suites Longview North
The Comfort Suites Longview North in Longview, Texas, is famous for travelers seeking a convenient and comfortable stay. Located near East Texas Regional Airport and downtown Longview, this hotel offers high-speed internet access and a complimentary hot breakfast. Guests also have easy access to area attractions like Lake O’ the Pines and LeTourneau University, and the Hampton Inn and Suites Longview, TX. The Lear Park Sports Complex and Hinsley Park are also short distances away.
La Quinta Inn & Suites
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Longview North is conveniently located off E. Hawkins Parkway, near US-259 and 20 miles from East Texas Regional. The hotel provides guests with various amenities, including a flat-screen TV and air conditioning in each room, a complimentary full breakfast, laundry facilities, a gym, and an indoor pool and hot tub. Guests can enjoy a daily continental breakfast and a morning swim at the Maude Cobb Convention Center, just 5 miles away.
Shopping
Exploring Longview’s shopping options is an exciting adventure! With delicious restaurants, unique boutiques, antique stores, thrift shops, professional services, and watering holes, there is something for everyone. For those wishing to explore Longview’s vintage buildings and architecture, The PawnShop is a must-see. Triangle Shopping Center is a great place to shop for specialty items. At the same time, Three Rivers Mall offers various retail stores and restaurants. The Red Hat Thrift Store is a great place to pick up bargains on clothing and home décor. Don’t forget to check out Binkert’s Meat Products (Butcher) for the freshest products in town.
Transportation
Longview is a great city for exploring and getting around, with plenty of options for transportation. Residents and visitors to Longview can take advantage of public transportation, car rentals, and ride-sharing services. The city offers multiple bus routes for public transportation that provide access to various parts of the city. Enterprise Rent-A-Car is an excellent option for car rentals for those who want to explore Longview at their own pace. Ride-sharing services like Lyft and Uber provide on-demand rides throughout the city. At the same time, Getaround and Zipcar offer hourly or daily car rentals. With all these choices, getting around Longview has always been challenging!
Local Events
Longview, Texas, is a vibrant city that hosts many exciting annual events. One of the most popular is the Great Texas Balloon Race, which takes place every year on the 2nd weekend in June. This event attracts some of the best competitive pilots from the United States and the world. This thrilling event begins at the East Texas Regional Airport. It moves through Longview, including stops at the Longview Convention Complex and other sites. The experience of seeing these colorful balloons in flight is truly something to behold! Also held in Longview is the East Texas State Fair, which features exciting rides, games, and an array of delicious food vendors. With so much to see and do in Longview, it’s no wonder why these two events have become such an essential part of this city’s culture!