The list of places you can stop to smell the roses in Tyler is endless, so it’s no surprise that’s why many people come and visit the Tyler Municipal Rose Garden, Chamblee’s Rose Nursery and the LeGrand Rose Garden. And it makes sense, given that Tyler is home to the Texas Rose Festival and known as The Rose Capital of America. But venture beyond those lovely nurseries and gardens, and you’ll find adventure.

Like the state it calls home, Tyler has signature reasons to visit, but it’s a destination filled with so much more to do and experience. Go paddleboarding on one of its crystal-clear lakes, or spend a weekend camping and fishing on the shores of Lake Tyler. Try seeing the city from a bird’s-eye view and hop on a zip line. Afterward, visit a winery and watch the sunset.

If you’re looking for an adventure the whole family can enjoy, drive among the zebras, alligators and water buffalo at Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari Park, or hear the calls of the big cats at Tiger Creek Wildlife Refuge. If it’s a more traditional zoo experience you’re after, Caldwell Zoo is home to more than 2,000 animals and 250 species, and it includes a petting pen and two aquariums.

Only about an hour northeast of Tyler is Thomas Falls Outdoor Adventures & Event Center. The name of this Piney Woods destination says it all because in addition to a spacious event center, outdoor adventure is what you’ll find here. From zip lines and a water challenge course to a mud run and kayaking, Thomas Falls has it all.

 

Once you’ve taken in all the excitement, grandeur and natural wonders you can handle, a charming town full of brick streets, antique shops and museums awaits. Book a hotel room amid the quaint bustle of downtown or enjoy one of Tyler’s many resorts, where you can play a round or two of golf. If you're traveling with kids, here are a few more family-friendly spots to explore.

So whether you’re looking to stop and smell the roses, hop on a zip line and view them from above or venture out to one of the family-friendly adventures Tyler has in store, you’ll be making memories together and will want to come back for more.

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