Thanks to Decatur, Texas for fantastic day trip! Keep reading to find out how much fun you can have in Eighter from Decatur!
I was on a flight recently, and as we started descending into DFW someone in the row behind me said, ‘That’s not what I thought Texas would look like.” Having lived in Texas for most of my life, I’m still amazed how many people don’t realize how BIG Texas is, and all the different types of scenery it offers. (Hint: Dallas is pretty green most of the year.)
Road trips have become one of my favorite ways to see Texas. I’ve driven west to El Paso, south to Big Bend, to the beach in Galveston, and to the lush pine trees of east Texas. There are so many cities and towns to visit. Recently I had the chance to visit Decatur. Now, I’ve been to Decatur before. More than once. But this time I got the grand tour. And I have to tell you, there was a lot more to this North Texas town that I ever knew!
What To Do in Decatur
DIY Studio Decatur
You might have heard about a little place in Waco called Magnolia Market? What if I told you some of the products sold there are made in Decatur? Yep! And what if I told you that you too could make a sign at the studio? You can and I did!
At DIY Studio Decatur you can make your own custom wooden sign. You can also get inspired by all the wood accessories around the studio. A love more than tacos? That’s true love.
When I got the chance to make a custom wood sign I knew exactly what I wanted to make. I’ve actually had making a Julie Measures sign on my crafty to-do wish list for months. This was the chance to have expert help!
I even got to pick my font and have my letters custom cut.
With letters in hand I chose a paint color that closely matched the pink on my website. Several coats later and I could mount my letters to the shiplap background that I had stained.
This is the perfect place to plan a girls outing. It was so much fun to see what everyone created!
What To See in Decatur
If you want a unique photo opp, make sure to stop at the Petrified Wood Station. It’s easy to spot as you’re driving in to downtown.
I love public art. And this phone booth art installation from Mark Moran is such a fun surprise. They even dress it up for holidays!
All in the same area you will find the Decatur mural and the rolling dice sculpture. You’ll find the city slogan ‘Eighter from Decatur’ all over the city. Though there are some conflicting ideas on where the phrase came from!
The Decatur mural isn’t the only mural in downtown. Love dinosaurs? This mural is unique in that is also has a 3D element of the arm.
A fun downtown activity is to search for all the mini murals. Near the courthouse you’ll find these mice.
Speaking of the courthouse, you can’t visit a historic Texas downtown and not see the courthouse.
I got a special treat when visiting Decatur and got to go on a courthouse tour. Apparently the Decatur courthouse is haunted! I got to hear lots of ghost stories as we walked through the building and checked out the attic.
Turns out the best view of Decatur is from the top (and I mean top) of the courthouse! Up those winding stairs, past the bell tower, and out onto the top of the courthouse.
A peek up into the very top of the Decatur county courthouse. While a tour like this isn’t open to the public, definitely take the time to walk around the outside of the courthouse. This courthouse has been rebuilt twice after being burned down.
Where to Stay in Decatur
There are several choices for beautiful and historic places to stay in Decatur. Looking for a view of the courthouse out your window? You need to check out The Courthouse Suites.
The Courthouse Suites offers three different suites, all with unique decorating. My favorite was the room with all the music memorabilia details, including a Beatles mirror.
Perhaps you are looking for a Bed and Breakfast? Within walking distance from the courthouse is The House on Main.
This historic home was built in 1895 and is being renovated into a Bed and Breakfast (opening soon!)
As a treat we were able to eat a catered lunch at The House on Main.
After having lived in our downtown Fort Worth apartment that was built around the same time, I loved all the architectural details throughout the home.
The house has four bedrooms, three downstairs, and will be ideal for a girls weekend or wedding parties.
Plus, the living room is filled with unique books! I loved finding this copy of Les Miserables.
More Downtown Decatur Fun
Trinity Coffee had a delicious cup of hot cocoa that warmed me up as I adventured throughout the city. This coffee shop ha a full menu including drinks and sandwiches and soups.
Looking for some antique shopping? I even learned that Decatur has their own collectible glass. While they were out of glass at the antique shop when I stopped by, there were plenty of other treasures. Downtown antique stores are always a treat.
Have you ever tried on a custom hat? You can get one made in Decatur. Rest and relaxation is available at Body Balance Wellness.
A winery in Decatur? They have that, too! Autumn from Mama Challenge was with me during my day in Decatur, and she shared her experience at Marker Cellars.
My friend Chastity at Cowboys Life Blog came on the Decatur day trip with me as well. While I was exploring the downtown area, she went to visit National Roping Supply.
If you haven’t made Decatur, Texas a destination, make sure to add it to your travel itinerary!
What’s your favorite Texas town?
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