Things to Do in Tyler (2025)

Since 1958, this mom-and-pop smokehouse has anchored Tyler’s food identity with pecan-smoked ribs, brisket, and live music nights. Regularly recognized by Texas Monthly’s barbecue team and praised by local journalists for community giving, it’s a must while in town.

Tyler’s pioneering craft brewery doubles as a neighborhood hangout with concerts, film nights, and a big family-friendly patio. Look for collabs with local makers and wood-fired pies from next-door neighbors. City arts partners frequently program events here.

A downtown staple and frequent mention in respected Texas travel coverage, ETX keeps the taps flowing with house-brewed lagers, IPAs, and seasonal one-offs. Expect weekly live blues, community events, and an easygoing street-facing patio.

This family-run bakery turns out slow-fermented sourdough, laminated pastries on Saturday mornings, and wood-fired pizzas that locals rave about. Southern Living spotlighted the Mosaic District’s rise, noting Sola’s role alongside the brewery next door.

A civic fine-art space curating juried shows and rotating exhibits that center East Texas artists. The 2025 schedule runs nearly year-round, and openings draw a cross-section of the downtown community, from students to working artists.

This restored downtown venue keeps a lively slate of concerts, classic-film screenings, and touring acts. The 2025 calendar ranges from themed parties with big-band jazz to cult-movie events, making it a dependable pulse-check on local culture.

A serious, community-focused museum on the TJC campus that programs regional and national work. Recent 2025 exhibitions include Pop on Paper and Unearthing Big Bend, alongside strong education and student showcases.

A locally beloved, AZA-accredited zoo that debuted the Amazon River’s Edge in 2025—an immersive South America zone with giant river otters, jaguar, and sloths. Frequently recommended by regional travel editors as a signature Tyler outing.

Estate-grown wines, a working distillery, and guided tours just south of town. Editors at Texas Highways have chronicled its growth, and recent awards keep the spotlight on this family enterprise. Book the Friday–Saturday estate tour and linger for tastings.

A producer-only market tied closely to downtown life, open Saturday mornings April–November and monthly in winter. Expect East Texas produce, pastured meats, bakers, and makers; the market accepts SNAP and WIC and often features live music.

Run by a grassroots nonprofit, this museum documents Black history in Tyler and across Texas with rotating exhibits and annual celebrations like Juneteenth. Recent renovations and steady programming reflect growing community support.

A multigenerational workshop where you can watch real craftsmanship—resoles, leatherwork, and custom boots—keeping an endangered trade alive. Local reporters have profiled Lucio’s as the city’s last full-service shoe and boot repair shop.