One of Gainesville's largest attractions (literally) is Glen Goode's Big People. These larger-than-life, friendly roadside figures are made of fiberglass and tower more than 20 feet high. To see them, take Interstate 35 to Highway 82 East to Farm-to-Market 371 and turn left. Two miles later, you'll see the towering muffler men and women giving a neighborly wave from the side of the road.
Back in town, take the kids to play at Leonard Park. You'll find plenty of shade from the Texas sun under the trees while the children scamper over the playground equipment or splash in the water park. Everyone will love riding on the mini-train engine for a small fee.
Bring your furry friends on your trip, too. Dogs of all sizes can run and play at The Dog Depot, Gainesville's leash-free park. For other close encounters with wild animals, make a reservation for a guided tour of the Frank Buck Zoo, a place where you can feed the giraffes and pet a friendly bear.
If you would like to learn more about the area's history, stop into the Morton Museum of Cooke County. The Santa Fe Depot Museum also offers a look into World War II–era life at Camp Howze in Gainesville, as well as other exhibits of regional interest.
Gainesville is also located about 7 miles from the Oklahoma state border and the WinStar World Casino and Resort. Located over the Red River, WinStar World Casino and Resort is the largest casino in the United States and the second largest in the world for gaming space. With more than 55 poker tables, 7,400 electronic games, off-track betting, bingo, keno, and more, you'll find a game of chance to suit your style.
You can also catch some great acts at WinStar's Global Event Center, play a game at The WinStar Golf Club, or catch some professional bull riding at the annual "WinStar World Casino Invitational." Dine and drink at Toby Keith's I Love This Bar and Grill, and carve out some time to hang out at the resort pool, complete with a waterfall grotto.
Whether you've come to honor a veteran or play some games of chance at the casino, you'll love spending time in friendly, All-American Gainesville, Texas.
When should you visit Gainesville, Texas?
Gainesville enjoys hot, sunny weather much like the rest of Texas. The extreme summer heat is best spent in the shade, indoors at the casino, or lounging at the resort pool. For outdoor activities, plan your trip in the cooler spring, fall, or winter months.
Youth 16 and younger look forward to the annual Kid's Trout Fishing Derby, held at The Gainesville Parks and Recreation Department each January. A fully stocked pond ensures a great experience for all, and the event is free. Simply bring your own rod and bait. Kids can win prizes for the longest and most accurate cast.
Visit on the first Saturday in May to enjoy the annual Spring Fling, a showcase of local vendors and artisans, as well as tasty food cart treats such as funnel cakes and tacos. Kids can take a ride on The Frankie Schmitz Express Train or take a spin in a human hamster ball.
The town's largest event of the year is the Medal of Honor Host City Program, with four days of events each April honoring Medal of Honor recipients. The city honors veterans once more on Veterans Day in November at Leonard Park. Listen to guest speakers, experience patriotic music performances by local schools, and see a presentation by the local VFW color guard.
Train enthusiasts won't want to miss the Depot Day train-themed carnival in October. Visit in December for the "All That Glitters" Holiday Home Tour. You'll get a chance to peek inside the stately homes of Gainesville decked out in their holiday finest.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Gainesville, TX:
Gainesville by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts demonstrating mean price trends by star rating class in Gainesville, TX. You can use these line graphs to evaluate the most cost effective time to stay in Gainesville for your upcoming travels.
Which luxury hotels in Gainesville, Texas are the best?
Check into the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Gainesville and you'll be impressed by its quiet elegance. Step onto an inlaid north-star motif as you check in to the front desk, pass the Tuscan-inspired classical furnishings in the lobby, and head to your graciously designed guest room.
Rooms feature many niceties designed to make your stay more comfortable, such as kitchenettes with microwaves and refrigerators for light meals and snacks, as well as safes for stowing belongings. Sit down at the desk to do a little work or stay connected with friends at home thanks to free wireless internet service. Wake up to a free hot and cold breakfast buffet, best enjoyed while reading the complimentary newspaper. From an indoor pool to a well-equipped fitness center, you'll be delighted with this property's luxurious amenities.
What are the affordable hotels around Gainesville, TX?
3 Star Average Prices: $123.10
Those looking for affordable hotels in Gainesville are likely to discover the Super 8 by Wyndham Gainesville, Texas. From refrigerators and microwaves to complimentary wireless internet access and free local calls, you'll love the amenities you'll find at the Super 8 by Wyndham accommodations.
The outdoor pool is a welcoming find for hot summer days, while the fitness center is ideal for staying on track with your workout regimen while you're on the road. Wake up each day to a complimentary continental breakfast, and you'll be ready to take on Gainesville.