Gladewater Travel Guide

Discover the best places to visit, things to do, and local culture of Gladewater, Texas. Plan your trip today with our week-long itinerary, transportation options, and safety tips.


Introduction to Gladewater

Nestled in the heart of the Piney Woods of East Texas, Gladewater is a charming town with a rich history and a vibrant cultural scene. Visitors will be enchanted by the town’s picturesque scenery, friendly locals, and wide range of outdoor and cultural activities.

List of Places to Visit in Gladewater

If you’re planning a trip to Gladewater, make sure to add these top-rated attractions to your itinerary:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Gladewater Museum: Learn about the town’s rich history and culture in this engaging museum.
  • Talley’s African American Cultural Center: This cultural center showcases African American art, history, and culture.
  • The Old Fire Station #1 Museum: This museum showcases the town’s firefighting history with artifacts and exhibits.
  • East Texas Oil Museum: Learn about the town’s oil boom in the early 20th century and the impact it had on the community at this interactive museum.

Natural Attractions of Gladewater: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Gladewater: A popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking, Lake Gladewater is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
  • Starr Mountain Trail: Take a leisurely hike and enjoy stunning views of the Piney Woods on this scenic trail.
  • Gladewater Opry: Enjoy live music and entertainment in this historic venue, which has showcased some of the biggest names in country music.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Gladewater

For outdoor enthusiasts, Gladewater offers a variety of hiking and biking routes, including:

  • Gladewater Lake Trail: This 1.4-mile trail is perfect for a morning run or leisurely stroll.
  • Shallow Creek Trail: This 4.6-mile trail is ideal for experienced hikers and bikers who want a challenge.
  • Union Grove Trail: This 7-mile trail winds through the woods and offers plenty of opportunities to spot wildlife.

Best Things to Do in Gladewater: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and exploring the town’s cultural attractions, Gladewater offers a variety of other activities and tours:

  • Gladewater Roundup Rodeo: Experience true Texas hospitality at this annual rodeo, which features bull riding, barrel racing, and more.
  • Gladewater Antique District: Shop for unique antiques and vintage finds in this charming shopping district.
  • Golf at The Links at Gladewater: Enjoy a round of golf on this scenic 18-hole course.

Week-Long Itinerary for Gladewater

Day 1: Arrive in Gladewater and check in to your accommodations. Take a leisurely stroll around town and explore the Gladewater Museum.

Day 2: Hike the Starr Mountain Trail in the morning and enjoy a picnic lunch at Lake Gladewater. In the evening, catch a show at the Gladewater Opry.

Day 3: Explore the town’s antique district in the morning. Spend the afternoon at the East Texas Oil Museum and learn about the town’s oil boom history.

Day 4: Take a day trip to nearby Tyler and visit the Tyler Rose Garden and Caldwell Zoo.

Day 5: Rent a boat and spend the day fishing and boating on Lake Gladewater.

Day 6: Enjoy a round of golf at The Links at Gladewater. In the evening, catch a show at the Gladewater Roundup Rodeo.

Day 7: Spend your last day in Gladewater relaxing and soaking up the town’s charming atmosphere.

Food and Drink Scene of Gladewater

No trip to Gladewater is complete without sampling some of the town’s delicious cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:

Must-Try Dishes

  • East Texas BBQ: Savor authentic Texas-style barbecue at one of Gladewater’s many BBQ joints.
  • Fried Catfish: Try this southern classic at one of the many seafood restaurants in town.
  • Pies and Cobblers: Satisfy your sweet tooth with a slice of homemade pie or cobbler at a local bakery.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: A southern staple, sweet tea is a must-try beverage in Gladewater.
  • Texas Beer: Enjoy a cold pint of locally brewed beer at one of the town’s many breweries.

Where to Stay in Gladewater: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Gladewater offers a variety of accommodations to suit every taste and budget, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. Some top-rated options include:

  • The Gladewater Inn: A historic hotel with charming rooms and excellent service.
  • Ant Street Inn: A boutique bed and breakfast with luxurious amenities and top-notch service.
  • Cottage at Holly Lake: A picturesque guesthouse with a serene setting and cozy accommodations.

What to Buy in Gladewater: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Take a piece of Gladewater home with you by shopping for souvenirs and locally made products, including:

  • Antiques and Vintage Finds: Browse the town’s antique district for unique souvenirs and vintage treasures.
  • East Texas Wine: Bring home a bottle of locally made wine from one of Gladewater’s wineries.
  • Handmade Crafts: Check out the town’s many craft shops for handmade jewelry, pottery, and other unique gifts.

Local Culture and Customs of Gladewater

Gladewater is a friendly and welcoming town with a proud cultural heritage. Visitors should take care to respect the town’s customs and traditions, including:

  • Southern Hospitality: Expect warm greetings and friendly conversation with locals in Gladewater.
  • Respect for History: Gladewater residents take pride in their town’s rich history, so visitors should take care to respect historic landmarks and cultural sites.
  • Love of the Outdoors: Many Gladewater residents are passionate outdoor enthusiasts, so visitors should be sure to take advantage of the town’s many parks, trails, and lakes.

Best Time to Visit Gladewater

The best time to visit Gladewater is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy. Summer can be hot and humid, while winters can be chilly and rainy.

Do’s and Don’ts of Gladewater

Do:

  • Do visit the town’s many cultural attractions, including museums and historical landmarks.
  • Do take advantage of Gladewater’s outdoor activities, such as hiking, fishing, and boating.
  • Do indulge in the town’s delicious southern cuisine, including BBQ and fried catfish.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect historic landmarks or cultural sites.
  • Don’t litter or damage natural habitats while enjoying the outdoors.
  • Don’t forget to show respect and kindness to locals and fellow visitors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Gladewater

Gladewater is a safe and welcoming town, but visitors should take care to follow basic safety precautions, such as locking car doors and avoiding unlit areas at night. Visitors should also avoid swimming in Lake Gladewater during times of blue-green algae blooms.

Health in Gladewater

There are several healthcare facilities in Gladewater, including hospitals and clinics. Visitors should be aware of the potential for allergy flare-ups during the spring and fall months when pollen counts are high.

Getting to Gladewater: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Gladewater

The closest airport to Gladewater is East Texas Regional Airport in Longview, which is located about 19 miles away. The airport offers commercial flights from American Eagle and United Airlines.

Bus Stations Near Gladewater

Greyhound Bus Lines operates a station in nearby Longview, which offers bus service to several destinations in Texas and beyond.

Other Options

Visitors can also drive to Gladewater from nearby cities such as Dallas, which is about a two-hour drive away.

How to Get Around in Gladewater

The best way to get around Gladewater is by car. Visitors can rent a car at the airport or in nearby Longview.

Where to Go Next from Gladewater: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

After exploring Gladewater, visitors can continue their East Texas adventure by visiting nearby destinations such as:

  • Tyler: Known as the “Rose Capital of America,” Tyler offers stunning rose gardens, museums, and entertainment venues.
  • Longview: A charming city with a thriving arts and culture scene, Longview is just a short drive from Gladewater.
  • Jefferson: A historic town known for its steamboat rides and antique shops, Jefferson is a great destination for a day trip.

Conclusion

Gladewater is a hidden gem in the heart of East Texas, offering a unique blend of outdoor adventure, cultural attractions, and delicious Southern cuisine. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing getaway or a thrilling outdoor adventure, Gladewater has something to offer everyone. Plan your trip today and discover why Gladewater is one of Texas’ best-kept secrets.

The historic Dr E.L. and Nannie Lewis Walker House The historic Dr E.L. and Nannie Lewis Walker House