Things To Do In Mineola, TX

Small Town Mineola is worth a visit to explore its downtown area and natural surroundings.

East Texas certainly has some lovely small towns. The charming town of Mineola, a National Register Historic District, boasts antique shops, gift stores, fashion boutiques, fine dining establishments, coffee shops, and even bed-and-breakfast inns. And we can’t forget the museums and the restored Depot, which the town is all giddy about. Here are the top things to do in Mineola, TX.

Mineola is situated in the Piney Woods of East Texas, approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes from downtown Dallas, and just under 2 hours from Shreveport, Louisiana.

Mineola, TX

Did you know that Mineola is a National Main Street City and the town is listed on the National Register of Historic Places? That’s a good reason to visit. And …if you’re a birder and like to go bird watching, you’ll be happy to know that Mineola is the “Birding Capital of East Texas.”

On my way home from spending a weekend in Lindale, Texas, I drove through Mineola to explore its history, murals, and what makes this town so lovely. Mineola will be one of the 50 small towns in my book titled “Small Town Texas,” which is due out in the fall of 2026.

I have been to Mineola three years in a row, attending a yoga retreat, but that was long ago. On Saturdays, we had time to stroll downtown or do whatever we wanted. I decided to do some shopping in the quaint town.

Things To Do In Mineola, TX

If you’re a mural connoisseur, you’ll love what you see here. I saw quite a few colorful ones, took photos of a few, and was told I missed the best. Younger ones will love playing in the Iron Horse Square and seeing the red caboose. For outdoor enthusiasts, go to the 3,000-acre Nature Preserve, just outside of town (not far). There’s plenty to do for a day, and some say, for a weekend!

This is the first small town I’ve visited where Amtrak’s Texas Eagle passenger train has a depot right in the downtown area. I happened upon it when GPS took me to the Railroad Museum, which is right inside the depot. The museum showcases the early days of railroads in Mineola. Be sure to see the red caboose nearby. Not hard to miss.

NOTE: The Amtrak train departs twice a day.

Explore Downtown Mineola

Follow the red brick road to the lovely downtown area, where you’ll find boutiques, antiques, various shops, stores, dining options, and a historic hotel. Be sure to see the 1960 Historic MOPAC Caboose.

Marvel The Murals In Mineola

I know I missed a few – and some good ones. However, I did capture some good ones as well. A commenter on Facebook stated that internationally recognized artists typically create most murals, and that Mineola is part of a countywide street art trail. Thanks, Todd W. He also told me who painted the murals that I posted on FB. So, I’ll mention the names in this article.

There is a website where you can view their locations, as well as murals in other areas. It’s woodcountywalls.org.

Beckham Hotel & Ballroom

Address: 115 E Commerce St, Mineola, TX 75773

Once a boarding house and the temporary home to railroad workers, loggers, and cattlemen, it is now a beautifully historic hotel in downtown. The 1892 Beckham Hotel offers ornate ballrooms, luxury guest rooms, a cigar bar, and more. I should have taken the time to get out of my car and go inside. I’ll do that next time!!

So, by all means, go inside even if you’re not staying there!

Iron Horse Square Park and Mini Train

Ride the mini train here, and as you can see, it has a kids’ playground. The train runs on the second and fourth Saturdays from April to October, as well as during special events, and it’s free!

Mineola Historical Museum

Exhibits comprise 150 years of historical memorabilia from Mineola.

Mineloa Nature Preserve

Mineola Nature Preserve, situated on the Sabine River, is an ideal location for hiking and biking. It also offers miles of equestrian trails, a playground, a pavilion, a pond, wildlife viewing, and a championship disc golf course. It’s open 7 days a week.

Mineola Coffee House

Had a quick coffee here and used the restroom. It’s a darling coffee and gift shop with plenty of seating options both inside and outside. I used my GPS, and this is where it took me. Not sure what’s in the rest of the house, but it’s huge!

1920s Historic Select Theatre

Take in a movie or concert at the Select Theater, the oldest continuously operating theater in Texas.

Main Street Farmer’s Market

Saturdays in April to October

More Things To Do In Mineola, TX

• Outdoor sports such as pickleball, basketball, golf, fishing, and tennis
• Mineola Country Club with a 9-hole golf course
• Lake Hawkins – camping, picnics, swimming, and fishing
• Lake Holbrook – camping and beach area
• Bob Wells Nursery at Sorelle Farms hosts a family-friendly date night farmers’ market every Thursday, 5-8 pm, featuring live music, mini homestead workshops, food, drinks, and shopping from local farmers.
• Annual Rodeo
• Wisener Airfield & Aviation Museum
• The Iron Horse Festival
• Fiesta de Mayo
• Mineola Art Festival & Quilt Show
• Music in May
• Magical Mineola Christmas

As they say in Mineola, “Get Sidetracked in Mineola.”

For more information, visit the City of Mineola and explore these family-friendly activities in Mineola.

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