Graham Travel Guide

Discover the best attractions, activities, accommodations, and local culture in Graham, Texas with our comprehensive travel guide.


Introduction to Graham

Graham is a charming city located in the North Central Plains region of Texas. This picturesque city boasts a rich history, vibrant cultural scene, and stunning natural landscapes, making it a perfect destination for both leisure and adventure travel. Graham is known for its friendly locals, affordable accommodations, and excellent food and drink scene, making it an ideal spot for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation.

List of Places to Visit in Graham

Graham is home to a variety of attractions that will delight visitors of all ages and interests. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, nature, or adventure, there’s something for everyone in Graham. Here are some of the must-visit places in Graham:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Old Post Office Museum and Art Center: This historic building houses an interesting collection of art and artifacts, as well as rotating exhibits and educational programs.

  • Graham Pioneer Museum: This museum showcases the history of Graham and the surrounding area, with exhibits on local pioneers, ranching, and oil drilling.

  • Fort Belknap: This restored 1851 military fort offers a glimpse into the past, with reconstructed buildings, exhibits, and living history demonstrations.

Natural Attractions of Graham: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Possum Kingdom State Park: This beautiful state park offers hiking, fishing, swimming, boating, and camping opportunities, as well as stunning views of the Palo Pinto Mountains and Possum Kingdom Lake.

  • Lake Graham: This tranquil lake is a popular spot for fishing, boating, and picnicking, with several public access points and a scenic trail around the lake.

  • Young County Arena and Event Center: This multi-purpose facility hosts a variety of events throughout the year, including rodeos, concerts, fairs, and festivals.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Graham

Graham and the surrounding area offer miles of hiking and biking trails, with options for both novice and experienced adventurers. Here are some of the most popular routes in Graham:

  • Possum Kingdom Hike and Bike Trail: This 16-mile trail winds through the scenic Possum Kingdom State Park, offering stunning views of the lake and surrounding mountains.

  • Lake Graham Trail: This 3-mile trail circles Lake Graham, offering beautiful views of the water and surrounding wildlife.

  • Wildcatter Ranch Trail: This private ranch offers guided horseback riding tours through scenic trails, with options for all skill levels and ages.

Best Things to Do in Graham: Activities and Tours

In addition to hiking and biking, Graham offers plenty of other activities for visitors to enjoy. Here are some of the best things to do in Graham:

  • Graham Drive-In Theater: This classic drive-in theater shows new releases and old favorites, with affordable prices and an authentic retro atmosphere.

  • Graham Regional Theatre: This community theater hosts a variety of productions throughout the year, with talented local actors and directors.

  • Brazos River Adventure Park: This adventure park offers zip-lining, rock climbing, and other outdoor activities, as well as stunning views of the Brazos River valley.

Week-Long Itinerary for Graham

For visitors planning a longer stay in Graham, here’s a suggested itinerary for a week-long trip:

Day 1: Arrive in Graham and explore the city’s historic downtown district, including the Old Post Office Museum and Art Center, Graham Pioneer Museum, and local shops and restaurants.

Day 2: Spend the day at Possum Kingdom State Park, hiking or biking one of the park’s many trails, swimming or fishing in the lake, and enjoying a picnic lunch.

Day 3: Take a guided horseback riding tour of Wildcatter Ranch, exploring the scenic trails and learning about the region’s history and culture.

Day 4: Visit Fort Belknap and learn about the history of the area, with a tour of the reconstructed buildings, exhibits, and living history demonstrations.

Day 5: Explore the local food and drink scene, with visits to local restaurants and breweries, and a chance to sample some of the area’s specialties.

Day 6: Spend the day at Lake Graham, kayaking, fishing, or hiking the surrounding trails.

Day 7: Depart Graham and head to one of the nearby attractions, such as the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library or the Fort Worth Stockyards.

Food and Drink Scene of Graham

Graham has a thriving food and drink scene, with a variety of options for every taste and budget. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Chicken fried steak: A Texas classic, this hearty dish is a must-try for visitors to Graham.

  • Tex-Mex cuisine: Graham has several excellent Mexican food restaurants, with authentic dishes and unbeatable margaritas.

  • BBQ: Texas is known for its BBQ, and Graham is no exception. Be sure to try the brisket or ribs at one of the local BBQ joints.

Local Beverages

  • Graham’s own microbrewery, 940’s Kitchen and Cocktails, offers a variety of locally brewed beers, as well as seasonal and creative cocktails.

  • Wine lovers will appreciate a visit to the nearby Possum Kingdom Winery, which offers tastings and tours of the vineyards and production facilities.

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

Graham offers a variety of accommodation options, from budget-friendly to luxurious. Here are some of the best places to stay in Graham:

  • The Wildcatter Ranch and Resort: This beautiful ranch offers luxurious accommodations, fine dining, and a variety of outdoor activities.

  • The Graham Inn: This historic hotel offers comfortable rooms and suites, as well as on-site dining and easy access to downtown Graham.

  • The Graham Super 8: This budget-friendly option offers clean and comfortable rooms, free breakfast, and easy access to local highways and attractions.

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

For visitors looking for a unique souvenir or gift, Graham offers several options for locally made products and crafts. Some popular choices include:

  • Handmade jewelry and accessories from local artisans, available at the Old Post Office Museum and other downtown shops.

  • Texas-themed t-shirts and hats, available at the Graham Chamber of Commerce and local souvenir shops.

  • Fresh produce and homemade jams and preserves from the Graham Farmer’s Market, open seasonally on Saturdays.

Local Culture and Customs of Graham

Graham is known for its friendly and welcoming locals, who take pride in their city’s history and traditions. Visitors to Graham are encouraged to respect local customs and etiquette, including:

  • Saying “please” and “thank you” to service staff and locals you encounter.

  • Dressing appropriately for the weather and the occasion, avoiding revealing or provocative clothing.

  • Being aware of local traffic laws and driving carefully on local roads and highways.

Best Time to Visit Graham

Graham is a year-round destination, with something to offer visitors in every season. Spring and fall are especially pleasant, with mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers. Summer can be hot and humid, but offers plenty of opportunities for outdoor activities and summer festivals. Winter is mild in Graham, making it a great destination for a winter getaway or holiday festivities.

Do’s and Don’ts of Graham

To ensure a pleasant and respectful visit to Graham, here are some do’s and don’ts to keep in mind:

Do:

  • Respect local customs and traditions, including appropriate dress and behavior.

  • Try local specialties and support small businesses and independent artisans.

  • Explore the natural and cultural attractions of the region, from hiking trails to local museums.

Don’t:

  • Litter or damage natural landmarks or historical sites.

  • Be disrespectful or disruptive to locals or other visitors.

  • Ignore locally posted traffic laws or speed limits.

Safety and Health

Graham is a safe and healthy destination, with excellent medical facilities and low crime rates. However, visitors should take normal precautions to ensure their safety and health, such as wearing sunscreen and staying hydrated in hot weather, and keeping personal belongings secure in crowded areas.

Safety in Graham

  • Crime rates in Graham are low, but visitors should take normal precautions to ensure their safety, such as locking car doors and securing valuables.

  • Natural hazards, such as heat stroke or snakebites, can be avoided by staying hydrated and alert on outdoor activities, and wearing appropriate clothing and footwear.

Health in Graham

  • Graham has excellent medical facilities, including a hospital and several clinics, offering a range of medical services and specialists.

  • Visitors with specific health concerns or medical conditions should consult with their doctors before traveling, and bring any necessary medications or medical supplies.

Getting to Graham: Transportation Options and Logistics

Graham is easily accessible by car or bus, with several nearby airports for visitors coming from farther away. Here are some transportation options and logistics for getting to Graham:

Airports Near Graham

  • Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport: This major airport is located approximately 120 miles southeast of Graham, with several daily flights to major national and international destinations.

  • Wichita Falls Regional Airport: This smaller airport is located approximately 60 miles northwest of Graham, with limited daily flights on smaller regional carriers.

Bus Stations Near Graham

  • Greyhound Bus Lines: This national bus service has a station in nearby Mineral Wells, approximately 45 miles east of Graham.

Other Options

  • Car rentals are available at the Dallas/Fort Worth airport, as well as in nearby towns like Wichita Falls and Mineral Wells.

  • Visitors can also arrange private transportation or car services for travel to and from Graham and nearby attractions.

How to Get Around in Graham

Graham is a small and walkable city, with many attractions and amenities located within walking distance of downtown. Visitors can also choose to rent a car or bike to explore the surrounding area and attractions, or take a guided tour or shuttle service for a hassle-free experience.

Where to Go Next from Graham: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Graham is well-located for day trips and excursions to nearby attractions and destinations, such as:

  • The George H.W. Bush Presidential Library and Museum in College Station, approximately 200 miles southeast of Graham.

  • Fort Worth Stockyards, an iconic Western-themed shopping and entertainment complex, approximately 100 miles southeast of Graham.

  • The Abilene Zoo and Children’s Museum, approximately 100 miles southwest of Graham.

Conclusion

Graham, Texas is a charming and welcoming destination that offers a wide range of attractions and activities for visitors of all ages and interests. From exploring the natural and historical sites to dining on local cuisine and attending cultural events, there’s something for everyone in Graham. Use this comprehensive travel guide to plan your perfect trip to Graham, and discover the best that this vibrant city has to offer.

A view of the First Baptist Church (on the left) and the Courthouse (white building in the center) from the Twin Mountains, near downtown Graham, TX. A view of the First Baptist Church (on the left) and the Courthouse (white building in the center) from the Twin Mountains, near downtown Graham, TX. Countryside South of Graham, TX Countryside South of Graham, TX