Home Of The Tomato Festival

Surrounded by rolling hills, lush forests, and scenic lakes, Jacksonville offers a unique blend of small-town charm and outdoor adventure. Jacksonville’s captivating attractions and hidden gems include:

• The World’s Largest Bowl of Salsa and the Tomato Fest
Jacksonville proudly bears the title of “Tomato Capital of the World,” thanks to its long history of tomato farming. Every year in June, the city comes alive with the annual Tomato Fest, a family-friendly event that celebrates the city’s agricultural heritage. The festival features live music, arts and crafts vendors, a car show, and a tomato-eating contest. Don’t miss the centerpiece of the event – the World’s Largest Bowl of Salsa, an impressive display of Jacksonville’s pride in its tomato production.

• Lake Jacksonville
Situated just a few miles southwest of the city, Lake Jacksonville is a picturesque reservoir that offers a wide range of outdoor activities. With over 1,300 acres of water, the lake is ideal for fishing, boating, and swimming. The surrounding park area offers picnic spots, hiking trails, and well-maintained campsites, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a day trip with the family.

• The Vanishing Texana Museum
Step back in time and explore the history of Jacksonville and East Texas at the Vanishing Texana Museum. This small but fascinating museum showcases a variety of artifacts and exhibits that tell the story of the region’s past. From antique farming equipment to an extensive collection of vintage photographs, the Vanishing Texana Museum offers a unique window into the area’s rich history.

• Nichols Green Park
Nichols Green Park is a beautiful and well-maintained city park that provides a peaceful oasis for residents and visitors alike. With playgrounds, walking trails, picnic areas, and a fishing pond, the park is a favorite spot for families to relax and enjoy the outdoors. Don’t miss the scenic butterfly garden, which features native plants that attract a variety of colorful butterflies.

• Love’s Lookout Scenic Park
Located a short drive north of Jacksonville on US Highway 69, Love’s Lookout Scenic Park offers breathtaking views of the East Texas landscape. From its vantage point atop a 700-foot hill, the park provides a panoramic view of the surrounding countryside, making it an ideal spot for photography enthusiasts or those looking to take in the natural beauty of the region.

• Downtown Jacksonville
Take a stroll through downtown Jacksonville, where you’ll find an array of local shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. Be sure to check out the Cherokee County Courthouse, an elegant example of Beaux-Arts architecture built in 1941. Don’t miss the opportunity to enjoy some delicious Texas-style barbecue at one of the city’s many mouthwatering eateries.

Jacksonville is a captivating destination that offers a unique blend of small-town charm, rich history, and stunning natural beauty. It’s sure to leave a lasting impression on you.

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