Fairfield Travel Guide

Get the most out of your trip to Fairfield, Texas with our comprehensive tour guide that covers places to visit, hiking and biking routes, where to stay, what to eat, and so much more.


Introduction to Fairfield

Fairfield, located in Blackland Prairie between Dallas and Houston, is a charming small town in Texas that offers a combination of cultural and natural attractions. Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, historic landmarks, or delicious local cuisine, Fairfield has something for everyone. In this guide, we’ll take a closer look at the best places to visit, things to do, and where to stay in Fairfield.

List of Places to Visit in Fairfield

If you’re visiting Fairfield, be sure to check out these must-visit attractions:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Freestone County Historical Museum: This museum features exhibits on local history and art. It’s housed inside an iconic 1924 courthouse building in the heart of town.
  • Teague Railroad Museum: This museum is dedicated to the history of railroads in Texas and the role they played in shaping the state’s economy and society.
  • Old Fort Parker: Located just outside of Fairfield, this site marks the location of a historic fort built by early Texas settlers in the 19th century.
  • Fairfield Opry House: This venue hosts live musical performances by local artists every Saturday night.

Natural Attractions of Fairfield: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Lake Fairfield: This reservoir is perfect for fishing, boating, and camping. While there, be sure to check out the scenic views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Fairfield Lake State Park: This state park is the perfect destination for hiking, bird watching, and picnicking. It also offers opportunities for swimming, boating, and fishing in Lake Fairfield.
  • Fort Boggy State Park: Located just 20 minutes north of Fairfield, this state park offers nature trails, camping sites, and fishing opportunities.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Fairfield

If you’re interested in hiking or biking around Fairfield, be sure to check out these popular routes:

  • Lake Fairfield Loop Road: This route circles Lake Fairfield and covers about 20 miles. It offers scenic views of the lake and the surrounding countryside.
  • Fairfield Lake State Park Trails: The state park offers several hiking trails ranging from easy to moderate difficulty. Highlights include the Big Brown Creek Nature Trail and the Post Oak Trail.
  • Boggy Creek Trail: This trail is part of Fort Boggy State Park and covers about 9 miles. The route follows the Boggy Creek and offers beautiful views of the surrounding forest.

Best Things to Do in Fairfield: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking, biking, and visiting attractions, here are some other fun things to do in Fairfield:

  • Fairfield Lake Marina: Rent a boat or pontoon to explore Lake Fairfield.
  • Teague Grand Theatre: This historic movie theatre offers a charming atmosphere and affordable prices.
  • Fairfield City Park: Take a stroll around this green space and enjoy the playground, picnic area, and basketball court.

Week-Long Itinerary for Fairfield

If you’re planning on spending a week in Fairfield, you might want to consider this itinerary:

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit Freestone County Historical Museum, have lunch at Back Porch BBQ, and relax at Fairfield Lake State Park.
Day 2 Go on a hiking or biking trip around Lake Fairfield Loop Road, then check out the Fairfield Opry House in the evening.
Day 3 Explore Old Fort Parker, have dinner at Migues’ Deli, then catch a movie at Teague Grand Theatre.
Day 4 Take a day trip to Fort Boggy State Park and enjoy the nature trails and picnic areas.
Day 5 Rent a boat or pontoon at Fairfield Lake Marina and spend the day on the water.
Day 6 Visit the Teague Railroad Museum, then have a late lunch at The Spud Ranch.
Day 7 Spend some relaxing time at Fairfield City Park before heading out of town.

Food and Drink Scene of Fairfield

Texas is known for its delicious food, and Fairfield is no exception. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Brisket Sandwich: Texas-style smoked brisket is a must-try dish, and Back Porch BBQ is a great place to get it in Fairfield.
  • Spud Ranch Loaded Potato: This local dish features a large baked potato loaded with toppings like cheese, bacon, and sour cream.
  • Kolaches: These sweet pastries are a Texas staple, and you can find some of the best at Gina’s Kolache Bakery.

Local Beverages

  • Sweet Tea: It’s no secret that Texans love their sweet tea, and you’ll find it served at just about every restaurant and café in Fairfield.
  • Dr Pepper: This iconic Texas soda was invented in nearby Waco, and it’s still a popular beverage choice in Fairfield.
  • Craft Beer: Several local breweries offer a variety of craft beers, including Backstory Brewery and 1836 Brewery.

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

If you’re looking for a place to stay in Fairfield, here are some options to consider:

  • La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Fairfield TX: This modern hotel offers spacious rooms and a free breakfast buffet.
  • Budget Inn: A no-frills motel that offers affordable rates and clean rooms.
  • Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Corsicana: Located about 30 minutes south of Fairfield, this hotel offers modern amenities and comfortable rooms.

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

If you’re looking for souvenirs or local products to bring home, here are some options:

  • Handmade Crafts: The Freestone County Historical Museum gift shop features handmade crafts created by local artists.
  • Texas Souvenirs: You can find a variety of Texas-themed souvenirs, including t-shirts, hats, and postcards, at the Fairfield Opry House.
  • Local Honey: The surrounding countryside is home to several beekeepers, and you can find locally-produced honey at several local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Fairfield

Fairfield, like many small Texas towns, has a strong sense of community and a deeply-held appreciation for its history and traditions. Visitors should respect local customs and be mindful of the town’s conservative values.

Best Time to Visit Fairfield

The best time to visit Fairfield is in the spring or fall when the weather is mild and comfortable. Summers in Texas can be hot and humid, while winters can be unpredictable with occasional snow and ice.

Do’s and Don’ts of Fairfield

Here are some things to keep in mind when visiting Fairfield:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions.
  • Be friendly and courteous to locals.
  • Take advantage of outdoor activities and natural attractions.

Don’t:

  • Disrespect local laws or customs.
  • Make assumptions about local attitudes or beliefs.
  • Ignore safety precautions when exploring natural areas.

Safety and Health

It’s important to stay safe and healthy while traveling in Fairfield. Here are some tips:

Safety in Fairfield

  • Be aware of traffic when walking or biking around town.
  • Use caution when swimming or boating in Lake Fairfield.
  • Stay hydrated and use sunscreen when spending time outdoors.

Health in Fairfield

  • Watch out for ticks and other insect bites when hiking or spending time in natural areas.
  • Bring any necessary medications with you, as medical facilities in town are limited.

Getting to Fairfield: Transportation Options and Logistics

Fairfield is located off of I-45 between Dallas and Houston, making it easily accessible by car. If you’re traveling from further away, you may want to consider flying into Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport or George Bush Intercontinental Airport.

Airports Near Fairfield

  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW): Located about 105 miles north of Fairfield, this airport is a major hub for domestic and international airlines.
  • George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH): Located about 110 miles south of Fairfield, this airport is another major hub for domestic and international airlines.

Bus Stations Near Fairfield

Greyhound offers bus service to nearby cities like Corsicana and Mexia, which are about 30 minutes away from Fairfield.

Other Options

Car rentals are available at both Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport and George Bush Intercontinental Airport. Alternatively, you can arrange for a shuttle or taxi service to bring you to Fairfield.

How to Get Around in Fairfield

Most visitors choose to get around Fairfield by car, as the town is spread out and some attractions are located outside of town. However, biking and walking are also popular options for exploring the downtown area.

Where to Go Next from Fairfield: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore more of Texas, here are some nearby destinations to consider:

  • Corsicana: This charming town is located just 30 minutes south of Fairfield and features historic landmarks and a revitalized downtown.
  • Waco: Located about 90 minutes north of Fairfield, Waco offers attractions like the Cameron Park Zoo and the Magnolia Market at the Silos.
  • Houston: About 2 hours southeast of Fairfield, Houston offers a variety of cultural attractions like the Museum of Fine Arts and the Space Center Houston.

Conclusion

Fairfield is a hidden gem in Texas that offers a variety of attractions and activities for visitors. Whether you’re interested in outdoor adventures, history and culture, or just taking it easy in a quaint small town, you’re sure to find something to love in Fairfield.