Learn More About Athens, Texas
Athens, Texas is a small town situated in East Texas approximately 90 miles southeast of Dallas. This vibrant city of nearly 13,000 people is a great place to live, work, and visit. The city has a fascinating history, rich culture, and countless ways to explore the area.
Athens began in the mid-1800s as a trading spot for pioneers moving west and has remained a prominent trading center up to the present day. In 1846, the historic Henderson County Courthouse was built making Athens the first county seat in Texas. The courthouse is still a prominent county landmark and is still used to this day for county governmental purposes and civil court trials.
Athen's culture is varied and vibrant. From music festivals to rodeos, there is an event happening every month to keep the locals entertained. One of the biggest events in Athens is the East Texas State Fair, held annually since 1904. The Fair features a rodeo, livestock shows, bull riding, carnival rides, and a variety of musical entertainment.
For those looking for some culture and history, the city has a wide variety of museums and exhibits to explore. The Fair Park Music Hall showcases the city's history with a collection of artifacts and photographs. The East Texas Big Thicket Visitors Center offers resources and tours through the historic Big Thicket area of Texas, showcasing wildlife, trails, and the local foliage. The Henderson County Historical Museum offers a glimpse into the past with thousands of photos, artifacts, and historical records from early settlers.
Athens offers some great outdoor activities for tourists and residents alike. The city has several parks to explore with hiking trails, fishing spots, picnic areas, and playgrounds. Or visit the Lake Athens Marina and rent a boat or kayak to explore Lake Athens.
Whether you're looking to explore history and culture or just relax, Athens, Texas offers plenty of things to do. With its unique history and culture and year round events, Athens is a great city to visit or call home.