What to Do in Jefferson, Texas: A Charming East Texas Town Near Caddo Lake
Jefferson, Texas, feels like a secret Southern novel—one that hasn’t been spoiled by time. Located near the hauntingly beautiful Caddo Lake, this historic town brims with character, vintage charm, and stories waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re visiting for a weekend or passing through after a paddle on the bayou, Jefferson offers a mix of nostalgia, nature, and a touch of the supernatural.
More Nearby Adventures:
- Caddo Lake: The Most Mysterious Lake in Texas and Louisiana
- The History of the Caddo People: Honoring the Indigenous Roots of the South
Adventures ~3 hrs away:
- Mount Ida, Arkansas: All You Must Know Before You Go
- Why You Should Visit the Ouachita: Explore Arkansas’s Hidden Gems
1. Stroll the Historic Jefferson Downtown
Red brick streets, antique shops, and Victorian buildings—it’s a little like stepping into a movie set. The historic downtown district is walkable and filled with curiosities, from old general stores to quirky boutiques.
- Jefferon General Store
- Gone with the Wind Museum
- Peanut Nutty’s Butter
- Museum of Measurement and Time
2. Visit the Jefferson Historical Museum
Located inside a stunning former courthouse, this museum is a treasure trove of artifacts, Civil War history, and old-town legends.
3. Explore Caddo Lake
Just a short drive away, this ancient swampy lake is unlike anywhere else in Texas. Spanish moss, cypress trees, and still waters create an otherworldly backdrop. You can paddle, fish, or simply get lost in the quiet.
Don’t miss my full blog post → Caddo Lake: The Most Mysterious Lake in Texas and Louisiana
4. Attend the Battle for Jefferson (If You’re Visiting in May)
Every spring, Jefferson transforms into a living history stage during the Battle for Jefferson. This Civil War reenactment features authentic camps, costumed actors, battlefield skirmishes, and period vendors. Even if you’re not a history buff, the immersive detail and energy of the event are worth experiencing. It’s a unique way to feel the town’s deep roots—and its flair for storytelling.
5. Tour a Haunted Hotel (or Stay in One)
Jefferson is one of Texas’s most haunted towns. Whether or not you believe in ghosts, the town leans into its eerie reputation. The Excelsior House Hotel is famously haunted—and famously charming.
6. Rent a Golf Cart
7. Check Out Local Eats
For small-town Texas, Jefferson punches above its weight in food.
- Austin Street Bistro – OMG SO GOOD
- Joseph’s Riverport Barbecue
- Kitt’s Kornbread Sandwich & Pie Bar
8. Walk at the Park
There’s a beautiful walkway right off the Bayou, but you can’t find it anywhere on Google Map, if you walk towards the Bayou from the town, there’s an entrance right off the road and a big parking lot.
9. Shop Antiques & Hidden Gems
Jefferson is an antique lover’s dream. You’ll find everything from vintage quilts and glassware to Civil War memorabilia.
Where to Stay in Jefferson, TX
- The Carriage House B&B – Cozy, historic, and just a few blocks from downtown.
- The House of the Seasons
- Jefferson Palace Hotel –
- The Steamboat Inn
- Excelsior House Hotel – Haunted and elegant, with a side of Southern grandeur.
- Local cabins – For those who want to be closer to the lake or tucked into the woods.
