Did you know that Lufkin’s Ellen Trout Zoo is home to one of only 24 white rhinos in captivity in the United States? This East Texas gem, nestled among towering pine forests, offers visitors a surprising array of attractions that go well beyond what you might expect from a small town. From fascinating museums to outdoor adventures, Lufkin combines small-town charm with big experiences that make it worth exploring.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Lufkin is located in East Texas, approximately 190 km (120 miles) northeast of Houston. The most convenient way to reach Lufkin is by car, as the city is situated at the crossroads of U.S. Highways 59 and 69.
Travel Options:
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport, about a 2-hour drive away.
- By Car: Lufkin is easily accessible via U.S. Highway 59 (future Interstate 69) from Houston or U.S. Highway 69 from Tyler.
- By Bus: Greyhound provides limited service to Lufkin.
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Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
Lufkin experiences a humid subtropical climate with hot summers and mild winters. The best times to visit are during spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) when temperatures are pleasant and outdoor activities are most enjoyable.
Seasonal Highlights:
- Spring (March-May): Temperatures range from 15-26°C (59-79°F). Perfect for outdoor activities and when wildflowers bloom.
- Summer (June-August): Hot and humid with temperatures often exceeding 32°C (90°F). Indoor attractions like museums are ideal during this time.
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant temperatures between 13-27°C (55-80°F) with beautiful foliage in the surrounding forests.
- Winter (December-February): Mild with occasional cold snaps. Temperatures typically range from 4-16°C (40-60°F).
Packing Tip: Due to Lufkin’s humid climate, lightweight, breathable clothing is recommended for summer visits. In winter, layers are ideal as temperatures can fluctuate throughout the day.
Getting Around Locally
Lufkin is a relatively compact city, but having a car is recommended to fully explore the area and visit attractions that are spread throughout the region.
Transportation Options:
- Car Rental: The most convenient way to explore Lufkin and surrounding areas.
- Rideshare: Limited Uber and Lyft services are available in Lufkin.
- Walking: Downtown Lufkin is walkable with many shops and restaurants in close proximity.
- Biking: Some areas of Lufkin are bike-friendly, particularly around parks and residential areas.
Explore Lufkin With Ease
Book your rental car today and enjoy the freedom to discover all that Lufkin has to offer at your own pace.
Where to Stay in Lufkin
Lufkin offers a variety of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences. Most hotels are concentrated along Highway 59/69 and provide easy access to the city’s attractions.
Hotels & Motels
Lufkin has several national chain hotels including Holiday Inn, Hampton Inn, and Courtyard by Marriott. These offer comfortable rooms, free Wi-Fi, and amenities like swimming pools and fitness centers.
Bed & Breakfasts
For a more personal experience, consider one of Lufkin’s bed and breakfasts. These often feature historic homes with unique character and provide homemade breakfast and local insights from hosts.
Cabin Rentals
The surrounding areas of Lufkin offer cabin rentals, particularly near Lake Sam Rayburn and Davy Crockett National Forest. These provide a peaceful retreat and direct access to outdoor activities.
Local Tip: Book accommodations well in advance if visiting during special events like the Texas State Forest Festival in September or the Lufkin Cattle Baron’s Gala in spring.
Dining & Local Cuisine
Lufkin offers a diverse culinary scene that highlights East Texas flavors with an emphasis on Southern comfort food, barbecue, and Tex-Mex cuisine.
Must-Try Local Restaurants:
Southern Comfort Food
- Cotton Patch Cafe: Known for their chicken fried steak and homestyle vegetables.
- Café Del Rio: Offers Tex-Mex favorites in a lively atmosphere.
- Manhattan Fine Dining: Upscale option for special occasions with steaks and seafood.
BBQ & Smokehouse
- Bodacious Bar-B-Q: Local favorite for smoked brisket and ribs.
- Ray’s Drive-In: Classic drive-in serving burgers and barbecue since 1959.
- Stringer’s Lufkin BBQ: Known for their smoked meats and homemade sides.
Sweet Treats
- Atkinson Candy Company: Factory store offering locally-made candies like the famous Chick-O-Stick.
- Standpipe Coffee House: Local café with specialty coffees and pastries.
- Confections: Bakery known for cookies, cupcakes, and custom cakes.
Foodie Tip: Don’t miss trying Atkinson’s Candy Company’s famous Chick-O-Stick, a peanut butter and toasted coconut candy that has been made in Lufkin since 1932.
Top Attractions & Things to Do in Lufkin, Texas
From fascinating museums to outdoor adventures, Lufkin offers a diverse range of activities for visitors of all ages. Here are the must-see attractions that showcase the best of this East Texas city.
Family-Friendly Attractions
Ellen Trout Zoo
As one of the finest small-city zoos in the nation, Ellen Trout Zoo houses nearly 800 animals from around the world. Highlights include white rhinos, giraffes, hippos, and free-roaming peacocks. Don’t miss the miniature train ride that circles the scenic City Lake.
Location: 402 Zoo Circle, Lufkin, TX 75904
Naranjo Museum of Natural History
Discover fascinating exhibits on dinosaurs, fossils, and natural history at this excellent museum. The collection includes impressive dinosaur fossils, precious stones, and even a NASA space suit that traveled to space. Interactive displays make this educational experience engaging for all ages.
Location: 5104 South 1st Street, Lufkin, TX 75901
Cultural & Historical Attractions
Texas Forestry Museum
Learn about the region’s rich forestry heritage at this informative museum. Exhibits include vintage logging equipment, a steam-powered sawmill, and displays on paper production. The museum provides insight into how the timber industry shaped East Texas.
Location: 1905 Atkinson Drive, Lufkin, TX 75901
Museum of East Texas
Housed in a historic church building, this art museum showcases rotating exhibitions of paintings, photographs, and other works. The museum also offers educational programs, workshops, and cultural events throughout the year.
Location: 503 North 2nd Street, Lufkin, TX 75901
Explore Lufkin’s Top Attractions
Make the most of your visit with guided tours and skip-the-line tickets to Lufkin’s best attractions.
Outdoor Adventures & Recreation
Surrounded by the piney woods of East Texas, Lufkin offers excellent opportunities for outdoor recreation and nature exploration.
Parks & Natural Areas
Davy Crockett National Forest
Located just west of Lufkin, this 65,000-hectare (160,000-acre) national forest offers hiking trails, camping, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The 32-km (20-mile) Four C National Recreation Trail is perfect for hikers and mountain bikers.
Lake Sam Rayburn
One of the largest reservoirs in Texas, Lake Sam Rayburn is a paradise for fishing, boating, and water sports. The lake is renowned for bass fishing and hosts numerous tournaments throughout the year.
City Parks
Lufkin maintains several city parks including Kit McConnico Park (with sports facilities and walking trails), Jones Park (featuring a splash pad for children), and Grace Dunne Richardson Park (offering picnic areas and playgrounds).
Golf Courses
Lufkin is home to excellent golf courses that take advantage of the beautiful East Texas landscape:
- Crown Colony Country Club: A semi-private course rated among the top courses in Texas, featuring challenging holes amid pine trees.
- Neches Pines Golf Course: A public 18-hole course in nearby Diboll with tree-lined fairways and affordable green fees.
Seasonal Events & Festivals
Throughout the year, Lufkin hosts various events and festivals that showcase the community’s culture, history, and local talents.
Annual Events
- Texas State Forest Festival (September): This multi-day event features a carnival, lumberjack shows, food vendors, live entertainment, and the Southern Hushpuppy Championships.
- Lufkin Cattle Baron’s Gala (Spring): An elegant fundraising event with live music, auctions, and fine dining.
- Downtown Lufkin Christmas Parade (December): A festive holiday parade with decorated floats, marching bands, and Santa Claus.
- Angelina County Fair (March): Agricultural exhibits, livestock shows, and family entertainment.
- Lufkin Farmers Market (May-November): Held on Saturdays, featuring local produce, crafts, and food products.
Event Tip: Check the Lufkin Convention & Visitors Bureau website or social media for up-to-date event information and any schedule changes before planning your visit around a specific event.
Practical Travel Tips
Make the most of your visit to Lufkin with these helpful tips and local insights.
Local Etiquette & Customs
- Southern Hospitality: Lufkin residents are known for their friendliness. A smile and “hello” go a long way.
- Pace of Life: Expect a relaxed pace typical of small Southern towns. Service may be unhurried but friendly.
- Dress Code: Casual attire is acceptable for most venues, though some restaurants and events may call for smart casual.
- Tipping: Standard 15-20% at restaurants and for services is expected.
Safety Information
- Lufkin is generally a safe community with low crime rates.
- During summer, stay hydrated and use sun protection due to high temperatures and humidity.
- When hiking or exploring natural areas, be aware of wildlife and insects, including mosquitoes and ticks.
- Flash flooding can occur during heavy rains, so monitor weather forecasts.
Useful Resources
- Lufkin Convention & Visitors Bureau: 1615 South Chestnut Street, Lufkin, TX 75901
- Emergency Services: Dial 911
- Lufkin Memorial Hospital: 1201 West Frank Avenue, Lufkin, TX 75904
- Local News: KTRE (TV) and Lufkin Daily News (newspaper)
Plan Your Lufkin Adventure
Lufkin may be a small East Texas city, but it offers a surprising variety of attractions, outdoor activities, and cultural experiences that make it worth exploring. From fascinating museums and a top-rated zoo to beautiful natural areas and Southern hospitality, Lufkin provides visitors with an authentic taste of East Texas charm.
Whether you’re passing through on a road trip or planning a dedicated visit, Lufkin’s combination of small-town warmth and diverse attractions creates a memorable destination that showcases the best of what East Texas has to offer.
Ready to Experience Lufkin?
Start planning your trip today with these essential travel resources:
The above is subject to change.
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