Packing Up for Palestine
by Kim Davis Guerra
This summer, money may be tight and the price of gas may be going through the roof, but that doesn’t mean you cannot have an awesome summer family vacation!
Located a mere 150 miles north of Houston, is a little town called Palestine, TX with a population of just under 20,000. While the town may be small, it is a great place for a family getaway! Whether you are into a weekend full of adventure or your family is just looking for a quiet weekend in the country, you can find something for everyone.
Accommodations
If you are looking for a big fancy resort, this is not the place for you. Quaint bed & breakfasts or cabins in the woods are the more the choice of the day and offer more character than you can imagine!
Bailey Bunkhouse – Rustic bunkhouse nestled on 18+ acres, built in the 1970’s, sleeps 12 comfortably. This charming B&B offers every amenity a family could ask for when travelling. Rates start at $125 a night. www.baileybunkhouse.com
Fox Meadow Guest Home & Nature Conservancy – This place is a little far off the beaten path, but well worth the drive! Four guest homes are located on 55 acres in between Athens and Palestine. Each home sleeps four comfortably. Wake to the call of nature and explore over 3.5 miles of hiking trails through the woods or just plop into one of the rockers on the front porch and enjoy a leisurely cup of coffee. Rates vary. www.foxmeadows.ws
Attractions
Texas State Railroad – Throw your family back in time to the late 1800’s when steam engines were the only way to travel in style! Take a 25 mile scenic ride through the piney woods of East Texas and take in the sights of the day, or night. Several special events occur throughout the year, so plan to be back! Summer rides only run on Saturday, so be sure to check the schedule in advance. Tickets start at $38 (kids 3-11) $56 for adults. www.texasstaterr.com
Go Zip Texas – Put some adventure in your weekend and fly more than 100 ft. above the ground through towering pines. Each adventure tour lasts between 1 ½-2 hours and you will experience between 6-9 different zip lines! $60pp for 6 zip lines and $80pp for 9 zip lines. www.goziptexas.com
Grapeland Drive-Thru Safari – The kids will love to get up close and personal with 350 exotic animals located in 59 acres of natural environment. Only $7pp to enter with $1 for a cup of animal feed, this is sure to be a hit. www.grapelanddrivethrusafari.com
Dogwood Junction – Feel the need for speed? Want to hit the batting cages? Putt-putt anyone? How about a video game? Everyone’s needs can be met at Dogwood Junction. Hop into formula one go carts and speed around the 850 foot long custom track; hit the professional series mini golf course or delve into the 5000 sq ft. arcade. Your family is sure to have a blast! Visit the website for more information at www.mydogwoodjunction.com
Lake Palestine – Bring up the boat with you and drop into the over 25,000 acres that is Lake Palestine. With a total length of 18 miles and over 135 miles of shoreline, you are sure to enjoy all that it has to offer whether you are fishing, skiing or boating. www.lakepalestine.com
