Local Attractions
Local Attractions & Culture
Nearby Towns:
Palo Pinto:
Explore the small, historically rich town of Palo Pinto, which offers a less crowded experience and historical sites.
Palo Pinto Courthouse: Explore the well-kept, historical grounds surrounding the active governmental seat of Palo Pinto County, and the Old Jail Museum Complex for a glimpse into the local history.
Mineral Wells:
A short drive away, Mineral Wells offers more activities like exploring charming downtown boutiques and enjoying local cuisine.
Nature Programs: Check out the interpretive programs offered at Lake Mineral Wells State Park, including wildflower walks and cowboy history.
Lake Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway: Enjoy activities such as swimming, canoeing, fishing, rock climbing, mountain biking, and hiking along the lake and creek.
Mineral Wells Fossil Park: Find 300-million-year-old fossils to take home as unique mementos of your trip.
Downtown Mineral Wells: Visit the historic Baker Hotel and other local shops.
Historic Fort Wolters: Discover the site of a former military training base, now a historical landmark.
Clark Gardens: Located near Mineral Wells, this botanical park offers a relaxing escape no matter the time of year.
Strawn
Palo Pinto Mountains State Park: Explore over 12 miles of trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, and enjoy stargazing under the night sky. Palo Pinto Mountains State Park 100 Park Road 77, Strawn, TX 76475
Historical Museum : Learn more about the area's past at the museum located in the nearby town of Strawn.
Gordon
Local museum offers a well-organized display of the town's history, including artifacts and exhibits related to the coal, brick, and oil industries that once thrived here. It's a great spot to learn about the area's past.
Mingus
Greystone Castle is a world-famous hunting lodge open to the public. The award-winning hunting, fishing, and sporting clays make it a perfect venue for any outdoor enthusiast.
W.K. Gordon Center for Industrial History of Texas Located in nearby Thurber, this museum offers a glimpse into the state's rich industrial past in an engaging and interactive way. It's a perfect destination for a family day out.
Don't Miss:
Lake Palo Pinto : Fish for bass, catfish, and crappie
Wildlife Viewing: The rugged hills and creeks provide a habitat for a variety of Texas wildlife and birds.
Planning Your Visit:
Lake Palo Pinto Reservoir
Check Lake Levels: Be aware that the lake's water levels can fluctuate significantly.
Locate the public boat ramp on the north and south side of the lake for easy access.
Restaurants:
Mineral Wells:
Mesquite Pit BBQ & steakhouse — very popular locally
Taqueria La Estrella—Authentic Mexican, tacos, enchiladas, etc
Happy Days Diner— Retro diner for breakfast, burgers, lunch fare
Pastafina — Italian / pizzas, pastas, etc
Ichiban Asian Fusion —sushi, teriyaki, stir fry, rolls, spring rolls, etc.
Mingus:
Beneventi’s Italian — Italian, casual dining in historic setting
The SmokeStack Restaurant — home-style / country cooking
Mels Diner — subs, sandwiches, burgers & seafood (Maryland shrimp & crabcakes)
New York Hill Restaurant — (nearby, in Thurber / near I-20 Exit 367)
Santo:
Redline — BBQ, burgers, fried chicken sandwiches, grab-and-go options
Sweet One Bakery — Café & Bakery
Gordon:
The Stockman’s Club — upscale “cowboy fine dining” combining ranch-style with Southwest ingredients.
Bar-B-Truck Stop — a truck stop / restaurant on I-20, good for casual meals
Strawn:
Mary's Cafe — for a classic Texas chicken-fried steak.
Groceries:
Mineral Wells:
Walmart
Brookshire’s Food & Pharmacy
Gas and Quick Items:
Santo:
Tommy's — 13850 S FM 4, Santo, TX 76472
Gordon:
Texaco — 108 I-20, Gordon TX 76453