Attractions

Historic South Gainesville

The historic home district is adjacent to the courthouse square and worthy of a drive to see the homes and the churches built in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s. Gainesville was an important “cow-town” following the Civil War with local cattlemen having holdings as far west as the Panhandle. Cotton and farming were also king, and when the Santa Fe railroad connected the north-south rail line from Fort Worth to Chicago through Gainesville in 1887 the wealth created was a further catalyst for the building of our magnificent homes. Of note are Church, South Denton, and Lindsay Streets.

The Morton Museum, located in the historic downtown, is a great starting point for additional information about our homes, our Santa Fe Depot (which housed a Harvey House) and our history. Visit their website HERE.

Historic Churches

There are approximately 60 churches in Gainesville Texas with a few notable historic churches nearby you may want to visit while in town.

Saint Paul Episcopal Church

415 East California Street
The oldest Church in Cooke County, the first to be dedicated as a Texas Historical Landmark in 1966. Current building established 1885

First United Methodist Church

214 South Denton Street
Original stain glass and a pipe organ installed in 1893 still in operation. Current building established 1892

Saint Peter Catholic Church

424 Main Street, Lindsay
Beautiful sanctuary hand painted by German artisans to mirror ornate mosaic tile. Current building established in 1918

First Presbyterian Church

401 South Denton
Sanctuary has large panels of stained glass. Notable are the church bells that ring out hymns on the hour. Current building established 1912.

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Shopping

Shop the historic downtown square with a wide variety of stores in Gainesville. From one of the oldest jewelry stores in Texas to antiques and more shopping is certainly historic!

• Amelia’s Attic Antiques
• Anana’s décor and gifts
• B-Hive
• Cynthia’s Corner Yarn
• Glitzy Girl

• Good Things
• Kinne’s Jewelry
• Muse Wine and Gifts
• Paige Davidson Studio/Cahoots Handbags
• Past Time Favorites Quits and Fabric

• Ott’s Furniture
• The Twisted Hanger
• Unique Collections
• Vine and Branches
• Weise’s Jewelry and Gifts

Other Attractions

Frank Buck Zoo and Leonard Park

For young and old alike, the Frank Buck Zoo is a special place. A one-mile walk, the zoo has an African safari where each day you can feed the giraffes. The zoo was founded when the Gainesville Community Circus closed in the 50’s as a place to host the animals. It was named for the 1930’s celebrity “bring them back alive”, Frank Buck, who was born in Gainesville. Since then it has expanded and been renovated to be a jewel of the city. Not only is there a zoo, but the park includes an aquatic center, a train ride and the most wonderful playground built by community volunteers. Visit their website HERE.

WinStar World Casino and Resort

Sarah’s on the Square and the Shady Lady are located just 11 miles from the WinStar Casino. If you are looking for a great dining experience before a concert or a private haven to stay overnight, be sure to include us in your travel plans. Who knows, we may just bring you some good luck! View the WinStar Casino website HERE.

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Wineries

We have three world-class wineries nearby in the beautiful rolling hills of the Red River Valley. With tasting rooms and outdoor pavilions, we can’t think of a better way to spend an afternoon than visiting all three during your stay in Gainesville.

Blue Ostrich

Address: 5611 FM 2382, Saint Jo, TX 76265
Hours: Thursday – Saturday 12-6 l Sunday 12 – 5
Phone: 940-995-3100
Web: blueostrich.net

Arche

Address: 228 Wagner Road, Saint Jo, TX 76265
Hours: Thursday 12 – 6 l Friday and Saturday 12 – 7 l Sunday 12 – 5
Phone: 214-536-6330
Web: archewines.com

4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery

Address: 1473 County Road 477, Muenster, TX 76252
Hours: Thursday and Sunday 12 – 5 l Saturday 12 – 5 l Saturday 12 – 7
Phone: 214-577-7170
Web: 4rwines.com

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