Kilgore

Day Trips

Make the most of your day with our curated plans, packed with Kilgore's hidden gems and unique experiences!

day 1
Exploring Downtown Kilgore
morning
:

Start your journey with a breakfast at a local café, savoring the aroma of fresh coffee and homemade pastries. After breakfast, visit the Kilgore Historical Museum to learn about the city's rich oil heritage. Stroll through the charming streets and enjoy the unique shops that line the downtown area.

afternoon
:

For lunch, try out one of Kilgore's popular diners that serve mouthwatering Texas favorites. In the afternoon, take a guided tour of one of the nearby oil rigs to gain insight into the area’s past and its impact on the community. Wrap up the afternoon with a leisurely walk in Kilgore's parks, enjoying the beautiful Texas scenery.

evening
:

As night falls, treat yourself to dinner at a well-reviewed steakhouse known for its local fare and warm atmosphere. After dinner, catch a live performance at the iconic Texas Theatre, which often showcases local talent and film screenings. End your day with a relaxing stroll through downtown, soaking in the small-town charm under the stars.

day 2
Discovering the Great Outdoors
morning
:

Begin your day with a hearty breakfast to fuel up for an outdoor adventure. Head to the nearby Lake Gladewater for some early kayaking or canoeing while enjoying the serene waters and picturesque scenery. The early sun creates a beautiful glimmer across the lake, making it a perfect backdrop for some stunning photos.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic lunch to enjoy by the lakeside while watching the wildlife and fellow adventurers. In the afternoon, explore the surrounding nature trails and consider hiking at the Kilgore Nature Center, where you can immerse yourself in the lush landscapes. The trails are well-marked and provide a peaceful escape into nature.

evening
:

Return to Kilgore for dinner at a family-owned restaurant that serves classic American dishes. After dinner, unwind by attending a local festival or outdoor concert if the timing aligns, bringing the community together in celebration. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere as you mingle with friendly locals under the Texas sky.

day 3
Art and Culture in Kilgore
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a cozy spot famous for their delicious breakfast burritos. Spend your morning at the East Texas Oil Museum, where you will delve into the local culture and history of the oil boom era in an engaging way. The exhibits are interactive and perfect for all ages.

afternoon
:

For lunch, explore the local food trucks, offering diverse cuisine options from tacos to BBQ. Post-lunch, visit the Kilgore Arts and Theatre Center to experience exhibitions by local artists and attend an impromptu workshop if available. The community's support for arts adds a vibrant flair to the town’s cultural scene.

evening
:

Enjoy dinner at a restaurant that emphasizes farm-to-table dining, showcasing the best local produce. After your meal, attend a live theatre performance showcasing local talent, which could vary from musicals to dramas. Finally, finish the night with dessert from a local bakery, enjoying the sweet taste of Kilgore’s culinary scene.

day 4
Adventure Awaits at Lake Gilmer
morning
:

Start your day with breakfast at a local diner known for their southern hospitality. After breakfast, head to Lake Gilmer which is only a short drive away for a morning filled with fishing or paddleboarding. It’s a great chance to relax and enjoy the peaceful surroundings.

afternoon
:

Pack a picnic and settle down by the water for lunch while soaking in the sun. In the afternoon, visit the nearby wildlife observation areas to spot some local birds and other fauna. This opportunity for reconnection with nature is rejuvenating and refreshing.

evening
:

Return to Kilgore for dinner at a laid-back restaurant specializing in comfort food. Afterward, consider visiting a local brewery to sample some craft beers made from local ingredients. Sit outside to enjoy the cool evening air while chatting with friends and locals about their favorite spots in Kilgore.

day 5
Culinary Exploration of Kilgore
morning
:

Fuel up for the day with breakfast at a local eatery that specializes in homemade offerings. Join a culinary tour to explore Kilgore’s diverse food scene, starting with a visit to the local farmer's market where you can taste fresh produce. Engaging with the vendors gives you insights into farm-to-table practices.

afternoon
:

For lunch, attempt a food truck that offers unique and tasty bites, showcasing local flavors. In the afternoon, take part in a cooking class at a community center where you will learn to prepare regional dishes using locally sourced ingredients. This hands-on experience will enhance your understanding and appreciation of the cuisine.

evening
:

Dine at a renowned restaurant known for its innovative takes on classic Texas dishes. After dinner, join a dessert-making workshop for a sweet ending to your culinary day. The opportunity to create and taste delightful treats will make this evening unforgettable.

day 6
History and Heritage of Kilgore
morning
:

Begin your day with a delicious breakfast featuring local specialties at a nearby café. Spend the morning visiting historical landmarks such as the Kilgore College, established in 1935, and roam the campus gardens. Learning about the college's historical significance adds depth to your understanding of Kilgore’s development.

afternoon
:

Enjoy lunch at a traditional diner before heading to the Kilgore Historical Museum, where you can dive deeper into the town's storied past. Explore the many exhibitions dedicated to the oil boom and its effect on the community. History buffs will find this afternoon particularly enlightening.

evening
:

For dinner, enjoy a meal at a restaurant that showcases local Texas cuisine. Enjoy the evening with a ghost tour of Kilgore that takes you through some of the town's oldest sites while telling tales of its colorful past. This unique perspective on history, wrapped in stories of the supernatural, provides a thrilling end to your day.

day 7
Family Fun in Kilgore
morning
:

Kick off the day with breakfast at a family-friendly café that caters to all ages. Head to the Kilgore Community Park after breakfast, where kids can enjoy the playground and families can partake in outdoor games. It’s a perfect spot for families to bond and create lasting memories.

afternoon
:

Grab a lunch to go and have a picnic at the park, enjoying the Texas sunshine. In the afternoon, visit the Kilgore Rec Center if you have young kids, which often hosts engaging activities and classes. This interactive environment allows families to engage in sports or crafts together.

evening
:

Conclude your family's adventure with dinner at a restaurant that has a kid's menu and delivers a fun atmosphere. Attend a family movie night at the local theatre where you can catch a family-friendly film. It’s an excellent way to wrap up a day of fun and excitement in Kilgore.

day 8
Relaxation and Wellness in Kilgore
morning
:

Start with a light breakfast at a health-focused café that offers nourishing options for both mind and body. Following breakfast, engage in a yoga class offered at a local studio, where you can relax and rejuvenate your spirit surrounded by like-minded individuals. This morning sets a refreshing tone for the day.

afternoon
:

After yoga, indulge in a wholesome lunch at a vegetarian or organic restaurant featuring fresh ingredients. Take the afternoon to unwind further with a visit to a local spa, where you can indulge in massages or wellness treatments aimed at relaxation. The peaceful atmosphere will help to melt away any stress.

evening
:

Dine at a serene restaurant that offers healthy dining options, allowing you to savor nutritious meals. After dinner, take a meditative evening walk in one of Kilgore’s parks, enjoying the calm of nature as the sun sets. This peaceful routine ends your day on a positive and rejuvenating note.

day 9
Outdoor Sports and Recreation
morning
:

Kick off your day with a hearty breakfast at a local grill known for its strong coffee and substantial platters. After breakfast, head to a local golf course for a few rounds in the morning sun, perfect for some friendly competition or leisure. The scenic layout makes for an enjoyable experience.

afternoon
:

After golfing, grab a satisfying lunch at the club’s restaurant, celebrated for its delectable burgers and salads. As your afternoon unfolds, challenge friends or family to a game of basketball or tennis at the community sports complex. This lively environment creates opportunities for laughter and camaraderie.

evening
:

Conclude your active day with dinner at a lively sports bar where you can savor classic pub food while watching a game on TV. Join the local crowd to celebrate Kilgore’s sports teams and engage in the spirited discussion of the day’s matches. This vibrant atmosphere ensures a memorable end to your active day in Kilgore.

day 10
Biking and Adventure Trails
morning
:

Start your day with a quick breakfast at a café before embarking on an exciting biking adventure. Head out to the Kilgore trails, known for their beautiful landscapes and varying difficulty levels, perfect for bikers of all skill sets. The fresh morning air adds to the invigorating experience.

afternoon
:

Stop for a lunch break at a scenic viewpoint along the trail, fueling your body for more adventure. Continue exploring the trails, and consider stopping at a nearby nature reserve to learn about local flora and fauna. This allows for both physical activity and educational moments.

evening
:

Return to Kilgore for a hearty dinner at a restaurant known for its home-cooked meals. After dinner, take a leisurely stroll around the town, reflecting on the day's adventures while enjoying the evening sky. This unwinding time sets a peaceful tone for the conclusion of an active day.

Discover Kilgore

Read more in our Kilgore 2025 Travel Guide.

Kilgore Travel Guide