Guide No. 03
Things to do in Longview
Trails and parks in town, museums downtown, lakes and state parks within a drive, and a calendar that fills up fast in spring and summer.
Longview has a little of everything: walking trails tucked between neighborhoods, a fine arts museum downtown, college sports and performances, and some of the prettiest lake and forest country in Texas within an easy drive. This is a starting list of well-known spots. Hours, fees and event dates change, so check each one's official site or social page before you go.
Trails and parks in town
Paul G. Boorman Trail
One of Longview's best-known paved trails, a favorite for walkers, runners and cyclists.
Cargill Long Park
A city park with a popular walking trail that connects into nearby neighborhoods.
Lear Park
A large city sports complex where many local youth and adult leagues play.
Longview Arboretum & Nature Center
Gardens, paths and native plants, and a calm place for a slow morning.
The City of Longview's parks and recreation department lists more neighborhood parks, splash pads, pools and programs on its website.
Arts, history and culture
Longview Museum of Fine Arts
Rotating exhibitions and community art programs in downtown Longview.
Gregg County Historical Museum
Local and regional history downtown, including the story of the East Texas oil boom.
LeTourneau University
Campus events, performances and college athletics open to the community.
Kilgore
The East Texas Oil Museum and the summer Texas Shakespeare Festival are both at Kilgore College.
Lakes and state parks nearby
A big reason people love living here is how fast you can get to water and woods. Within a drive of Longview you'll find:
- Martin Creek Lake State Park, south of Longview, for fishing, camping and paddling.
- Tyler State Park, to the west, with a spring-fed lake and wooded trails.
- Caddo Lake State Park, toward the Louisiana line, famous for its cypress trees and Spanish moss.
- Lake O' the Pines, to the north near Jefferson, popular for boating, fishing and camping.
Texas State Parks often require reservations for day passes on busy weekends. Book through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department before you head out.
Events Longview is known for
- The Great Texas Balloon Race. Longview has long been home to this hot air balloon event, usually held in summer. Check the official event site for this year's dates and location.
- Downtown festivals. Downtown Longview hosts festivals, concerts and seasonal events through the year. Follow the downtown and city calendars for dates.
- Maude Cobb Convention & Activity Center. Hosts shows, expos and community events. Check its calendar for what's coming up.
- College seasons. LeTourneau University and nearby Kilgore College athletic and arts calendars add plenty to the weekend options.
We'll post event roundups in Stories as dates are announced.
Eating and shopping
Longview's food scene leans the way East Texas does: barbecue, Tex-Mex, Southern home cooking, catfish and a little Louisiana influence from next door, alongside chains and newer local spots. Much of the shopping runs along Loop 281, with locally owned shops downtown and in the nearby small towns. We'll feature local favorites in future stories once we've confirmed the details.
Talk to KT
New to town and thinking about staying?
If you're renting now and wondering about buying in Longview, KT is happy to answer questions. No pressure, just a conversation.
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Your note is on its way to Kenneth Travis. Expect a reply by phone, text or email, whichever you shared. In the meantime, the Living Longview stories are a good read.
Thinking of buying in Longview?
Talk it through with KT.
Kenneth Travis has been helping East Texas families with home loans since 2003. If you're wondering what buying here could look like for you, a no-pressure conversation is a good first step.