Living in a small town can be both charming and boring. I know this all too well as someone who has lived in Gatesville, TX for a few years. However, despite its size, I have come to love the town for its community closeness and many activities. We’ll discuss some of the genuinely fascinating things I have discovered around town that everyone will love.
Let’s begin by taking a tour of some of the great attractions of Gatesville. Imagine visiting the Coryell Museum Historical Center to take in a slice of history, watching a movie at the Last Drive-In Picture Show, enjoying a meal at the Junction on Route 36 Restaurant, having fun at Raby Park and Gatesville City Pool, being refreshed at the Splash Pad, and seeing exotic animals at the Topsey Exotic Ranch & Park. Not to forget, adventure-seeking individuals can get their range on at the Holley Gun Range. Gatesville has it all!
What makes Gatesville a great place to live?
Gatesville, TX, is one of those rare, hidden gems tucked away in the heart of Central Texas. Its peaceful, almost sleepy vibe and small-town charm make it so appealing to those who know about it. I had no idea what I was getting into when I moved to Gatesville a few years ago, but I can tell you that it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
But what makes this town so special? Simply put, it’s the people who live here. I don’t think I’ve met a person here who isn’t welcoming and friendly. From striking up conversations with strangers at the local diner to having potluck dinners with my neighbors, the sense of community is something else.
Apart from the warm and friendly people, Gatesville also offers a variety of unique and exciting activities. There are plenty of spots to explore the town’s rich history, such as the Coryell Museum Historical Center. Or if you’re in the mood for a movie, The Last Drive-In Picture Show is a classic spot to catch a flick. The Junction on Route 36 Restaurant is also a great place to indulge in lip-smacking cuisine you won’t find anywhere else.
All said and done, Gatesville is a hidden gem in Central Texas. It has everything you could want in a hometown – a close-knit community, a wealth of unique activities, and breathtaking scenery, all wrapped up in a relaxed pace of living. I’ve grown to love this town and its people, and I don’t think I would trade it for anything.
Coryell Museum Historical Center
Are you a history lover? If so, I suggest visiting the Coryell Museum Historical Center in Gatesville. The museum houses many artifacts and exhibits that glimpse the city’s past. I was amazed by the sheer number of exhibits on display.
One of the museum’s standout exhibits is the massive spur collection they have on display. There’s probably some truth to this, but they claim it’s the largest collection of spurs in the world. In fact, Gatesville is known as the spur capital of the world. Somewhat of a neat fact.
The library was my favorite as it housed various local family histories. It was a repository of county history meticulously compiled by volunteers. If one traces their family lineage back to Coryell County, this room is a treasure trove of resources. I asked about the digitization of this information, and the volunteer mentioned that they plan on starting a project soon.
The Coryell Museum Historical Center is a true gem in the heart of Texas. With its wide range of exhibits and knowledgeable staff, it is a must-visit for anyone intrigued by Gatesville’s history. It’s easy to get lost in all the displays, making it an unforgettable experience.
The Last Drive-In Picture Show
I’ve got to say; the Last Drive-In Picture Show has got to be one of the most incredible spots around. Whether you’re looking for an intimate date night or an enjoyable outing with friends, this place covers you. The movies they show on their vintage screen are a sight to behold, and their concession stand serves everything from standard popcorn to your favorite sweet treats.
There is a putt putt course at the entrance, but I’ve yet to see anyone play on it. It doesn’t look very well maintained. However, there’s something else for you to do in Gatesville if you’re so inclined.
The most incredible thing about this spot has to be its atmosphere. It’s like stepping back in time, and as soon as you pull up to the ticket booth, it feels like you’re being transported to a whole other world. Once you’ve found a great spot to park and set up your chairs, the excited chatter of fellow movie-goers buzzes around you, building a sense of anticipation and excitement that quickly becomes infectious.
The movie starts playing as soon as the sun sets, the stars emerge, and everything becomes perfect. There’s just something so special about watching an old movie outside, with nothing but the sounds of crickets and the scent of warm buttery popcorn. It makes you feel like you’re a part of something extraordinary and unique.
So, if you’re ever in Gatesville, do not miss out on the Last Drive-In Picture Show. It’s a true hidden gem you won’t want to miss out on!
Junction on Route 36 Restaurant
I recently had the chance to visit Junction on Route 36 Restaurant in Gatesville, and I must say, it was a remarkable experience. Not only did I find the food delightful, but the ambiance was also quite impressive. The menu had many options, including burgers, sandwiches, and salads. I chose the chicken fried steak, which was nothing short of amazing. The crispiness was just right, and the gravy portion was generous.
However, the exceptional service and one-of-a-kind decor set Junction on Route 36 apart. The walls are decked with vintage signs, license plates, and unique pieces that give the restaurant a whimsical and quirky vibe. The staff was incredibly friendly and attentive to my needs, which made me feel welcomed and valued as a customer.
The one thing I loved the most – if you’re up for it – is the live music on Thursday nights. While I’m not completely sure if they have live music on any other nights, I’m told Thursday is the time to be there.
I strongly recommend Junction on Route 36 for anyone seeking a lip-smacking meal and a lively ambiance. Whether you’re a local or just visiting Gatesville, this restaurant is worth checking out.
Raby Park and Gatesville City Pool and Splash Pad
Raby Park, Gatesville City Pool, and Splash Pad are my favorite spots to cool off. All offer a bundle of activities to make the most of your summer, whether looking for a relaxing refuge from the heat or a thrilling splashing and sliding adventure.
First off, Raby Park is simply a blast. There’s everything you need to have fun with your friends or family and best of all – it’s an outdoor paradise! Walking paths, open grassy greens, and even a skate park and playgrounds for the kids. You can spend an entire afternoon there with the kids and never run out of things to do.
Regarding cooling down, Gatesville City Pool is my go-to spot. Not only is it a great location to relax and catch some rays, but it’s also a place that can provide fun for all ages. Their Splash Pad is a killer feature for those with kids, perfect for younger children. On my last visit, their water jets and pads seemed to be just what the doctor ordered. The kids with us were going crazy with excitement.
No matter what you are looking for in your summer indulgence, Raby Park and Gatesville City Pool and Splash Pad offer reasonable entry fees, so it’s an excellent option for everyone to enjoy. The park is well maintained, so I think you’re going to love spending a few days out there this summer.
Topsey Exotic Ranch & Park
When I first heard about Topsey Exotic Ranch & Park, I wasn’t sure what to think. After all, when you think central Texas ranch, you think cattle, horses, and nothing else, right? But let me tell you, I was pleasantly surprised by what I found.
When I arrived on the property, something in the air felt different. It could have been the excitement that was visible on the faces of the other visitors, or maybe it was the anticipation of what I was about to see. Either way, I felt a rush of energy that’s hard to describe.
And then, as I looked around, my eyes widened in amazement. There were so many different animals! Zebras, giraffes, kangaroos, emus – it was like being transported to another world. It was clear that I was in an exotic animal paradise.
Walking around, I fed and interacted with the animals up close. It was a humbling experience that made me appreciate these creatures even more.
Beyond the exciting and unique animals, Topsey Exotic Ranch & Park also offers a petting zoo where you can hold and cuddle with baby goats and lambs. If you’re feeling daring, you can even ride a camel.
What stood out to me the most was how well the animals were cared for. The Topsey Exotic Ranch & Park staff values and treats their animals with respect and care. They are well-fed, have plenty of space to roam, and seem happy and content in their surroundings. It was a refreshing change from some other places that may not put the same emphasis on animal welfare.
So, if you’re looking for a unique and memorable experience in Gatesville, I highly recommend visiting Topsey Exotic Ranch & Park. It’s one of my favorite spots in the area!
Holley Gun Range
Gatesville has many exciting activities you can indulge in, but one of the most thrilling is visiting the Holley Gun Range. If you’re a gun enthusiast or just love to shoot, this range is open for practice on Thursdays and Sundays, and it’s something that you won’t want to miss.
Personally, I love going to the Holley Gun Range with my friends on Saturday mornings to hone our shooting skills. The range is always well-maintained and tidy, and the staff is always helpful and amiable. One of the best things is that it has multiple targets with varying difficulty levels, so you can challenge yourself however you like.
Whether an experienced shooter or a beginner, you can rely on the Holley Gun Range to provide a safe and comfortable shooting experience. Even if you forgot your gun or didn’t own one, the range has firearms available for rent. With its training courses, it caters to anyone who wants to enhance their shooting skills or obtain their concealed handgun license.
Holley Gun Range is your perfect spot to spend an unforgettable day with your loved ones while exercising your Second Amendment rights. Add it to your bucket list if you find yourself in Gatesville sometime!
Ready to visit Gatesville?
Gatesville, TX, has proven to be a hidden gem in the heart of Texas. The town is bursting with historical monuments and museums that captivate any curious traveler. In addition to its rich history, Gatesville boasts several top-rated restaurants that tantalizes one’s taste buds with exotic flavors to tantalize your taste buds.
Visitors and residents can use the local park and pool to stay cool during the hot summer months or quench their thirst for adventure by testing their shooting skills at the Holley Gun Range. Gatesville boasts a wide variety of unique and exciting attractions that appeal to all types of travelers.
The small-town atmosphere creates a close-knit community where everyone knows your name. There is a sense of belonging that cannot be replicated anywhere else. Whether searching for a place to call home or simply passing through, Gatesville welcomes you with open arms. I highly recommend checking out what Gatesville, TX has to offer. You won’t regret it!
