Learn More About Palestine, Texas
Palestine, Texas is a small city located in Anderson County, about two and a half hours southeast of Dallas. The city was first established in 1846 by pioneers from Nashville, Tennessee, who were intent on establishing a new home in the Texas wilderness. Today, its population is about 19,000 people and it is the county seat.
The name Palestine comes from a Biblical reference, when the city was originally a trading post in the early 1900s. As the city grew, it soon became a hub of activity, particularly in the cotton and cotton-related industries, which help it become the industrial center of east Texas.
The City of Palestine offers plenty of attractions for visitors. It's home to the Texas State Railroad, an old steam locomotive that travels from Palestine to Rusk, giving visitors the opportunity to ride in a bit of history. It's also home to the Texas State Railroad Visitor's Center, a museum dedicated to the city's history, and the Palestine Family Fun Fest, an annual event that includes rides, live music, and plenty of other fun activities.
In addition to its entertainment attractions, Palestine is becoming known for its outdoor recreational opportunities. The city is home to numerous parks, lakes, and trails perfect for fishing, camping, and boating. Lake Palestine is a popular spot for fishing, and offers over 200 miles of shoreline. The 18-mile-long Davey Dogwood Park features a wide array of activities, including nine miles of biking and walking trails, plus disc golf, picnicking, and bird watching.
The city is also quickly becoming a hot spot for foodies. Palestine is home to numerous locally owned restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries, offering a myriad of delicious cuisines. In addition, every year the city holds the Palestine Main Street Chicken Fry, an event that celebrates local cuisine and drawing thousands of visitors to the city each year.
From its beginnings as a rural trading post, Palestine has become an award-winning community with a variety of attractions for visitors and locals alike. With great outdoors activities, local cuisine, and plenty of historical attractions, Palestine is a great place to visit.