Need a fun day trip or small-town weekend getaway in East Texas? Head to Sulphur Springs! Known for its quirky attractions, friendly charm, and beautiful public spaces, Sulphur Springs blends history, recreation, and modern flair. From glass bathrooms to lively downtown events, this is a place that surprises and delights.
Sulphur Springs, TX Highlights:
- Visit the World-Famous Glass Bathrooms: Snap a selfie inside these fully functional see-through restrooms in the middle of the town square!
- Stroll through Celebration Plaza: Enjoy fountains, music, and events in the heart of downtown.
- Learn local history at the Hopkins County Museum: Explore a historic home filled with antiques, Civil War relics, and unique artifacts.
- Catch a performance at the Sulphur Springs Community Theatre: Local talent shines in this historic downtown venue.
- Explore Coleman Park: A lush, family-friendly park with trails, a lake, playgrounds, and sports fields.
Best Time to Visit Sulphur Springs, TX
The best time to visit Sulphur Springs is from spring through early fall (March to October). Mild spring weather and fall festivals are perfect for walking downtown or enjoying events at Celebration Plaza. Summer brings lake fun and long sunny days.
How to Get to Sulphur Springs, TX
- If you are traveling by car: Sulphur Springs is located along I-30, about 90 minutes northeast of Dallas and 60 minutes from Tyler.
- By Air: The closest major airport is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), followed by a drive or rental car ride to Sulphur Springs.
- By Bus: Greyhound and local bus services connect to nearby cities, though car travel is most convenient.
Where to Stay in Sulphur Springs, TX
- Clarion Pointe Sulphur Springs – Modern hotel with breakfast, a pool, and easy highway access.
- Hampton Inn Sulphur Springs – Comfortable stay with a fitness center and outdoor pool near dining and shopping.
- The Oaks Bed & Breakfast – Elegant historic home offering southern hospitality just steps from downtown.
Best Things to Do in Sulphur Springs, TX
⮕ Cooper Lake State Park
Hike wooded trails and fish the lake on an easy weekend trip.
Cooper Lake State Park is located about three miles from Cooper, Texas, on 19,300-acre Jim Chapman Lake, known before as Cooper Lake. The park offers a range of land and water-based recreational opportunities. Visitors also come for the breathtaking sunsets and spectacular scenery. Day visitors like to picnic under massive oak trees, swim at the lovely sandy beach, explore hiking trails or boat and fish on the lake. There are well-appointed cabins, shelters and both developed and primitive campsites for overnight stay. There is plenty of wildlife for nature lovers - bald eagles, wild turkey, white pelicans, waterfowl, squirrels, white-tailed deer, raccoons and beavers.
Cooper Lake State Park, 1690 Farm Road 3505, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482-0129
⮕ Hopkins County Veterans Memorial
Honor local heroes and reflect on a quiet, meaningful sight.
The Hopkins County Veterans Memorial in Heritage Square, Sulphur Springs, Texas, honors the men and women who have served their country. It recognizes their sacrifice and dedication with the memorial in the heart of the city. The memorial walls have inscribed the names of all veterans who have lived in, or are buried in Hopkins County and were honorably discharged. The architecture of the memorial compliments the historic adjacent Hopkins County Courthouse, and has a serene park-like atmosphere. Made of granite, the memorial can display up to 10,000 names and includes a computerized kiosk where visitors can locate individual names, see information on their service, commendations, and even a picture if it is available.
Hopkins County Veterans Memorial, 116 Oak Ave, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482
⮕ Southwest Dairy Museum
Explore dairy history and enjoy fun kids exhibits with hands-on learning.
Located in Sulphur Springs, Texas, the Southwest Dairy Museum showcases the importance of the dairy industry and tells the story of its past, present and future. The Museum, established in 1991, is funded by the dairy checkoff program, what means that all of its programs and features are made possible by dairy farmers. The 10,000-square-foot museum serves as the headquarters for numerous activities sponsored by the Southwest Dairy Farmers organization The museum includes exhibits such as the life of a dairy farm before electricity came to rural areas and hands-on demonstrations on separating cream, the first step in dairy production. Visitors can also enjoy a lunch and ice cream at the museum’s café
Southwest Dairy Museum, 1210 Houston St, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482, Phone: 903-439-6455
What to do if you are traveling with kids:
⮕ Hopkins County Museum and Heritage Park
Walk through pioneer cabins and discover affordable glimpses of local history.
The Hopkins County Museum and Heritage Park is a local museum documenting the history of Hopkins County, Texas. The museum is located in 1910 George H. Wilson house in Sulphur Springs and is operated by the Hopkins County Historical Society. The house has unique architectural features, such as carved columns, a pressed tin roof, double-bricked walls, and a beautiful Regency-style domed ceiling. The museum collections include Civil War memorabilia, Caddo artifacts, a collection of dolls, Paleolithic fossils, folk art and period women's clothing. The Heritage Park is created by moving to the 11-acre site eleven historic houses and other buildings, mostly built in the 19th century and meticulously restored The park include a working blacksmith shop, a chapel, a country store, farmhouses and more. The Hopkins County Museum and Heritage Park organize a range of special events, including a Folk Festival in May and Indian Summer in October.
Hopkins County Museum and Heritage Park, 416 Jackson St N, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482, Phone: 903-885-2387
Where to Eat in Sulphur Springs, TX
⮕ Plain and Fancy Sandwich Shoppe
Savor fresh sandwiches and enjoy a quick, affordable bite downtown.
Plain and Fancy Sandwich Shoppe is bright, colorful and charming breakfast and lunch spot in downtown Sulphur Springs, Texas. They proudly serve health-conscious food that includes a large range of sandwiches, plain and fancy, wraps, interesting salads, daily soup and fabulous desserts. It is the place to hang out with a friend over a large cup of coffee or tea and maybe a bagel with cream cheese, Philly Cheese Steak sandwich or, if you are really hungry, a Sourdough Pile-up with grilled chicken, bacon, lettuce, tomato and cheese on grilled sourdough bread and honey mustard dressing. One thing you will not find on their menu is anything fried or greasy.
Plain and Fancy Sandwich Shoppe , 120 Main St, Sulphur Springs, TX 75482, Phone: 903-885-9225
More Places to Eat
- Bayou Jack’s Cajun Grill – Bold Cajun flavors, gator bites, and seafood boils in a fun setting.
- Arturo’s Wood Fired Pizza Gallery – Pizza meets art in this creative downtown favorite.
- Redneck Bar & Grill – Classic Southern comfort food, burgers, and a lively local vibe.
If you are interested in local events:
- Hopkins County Stew Contest (October) – Local stew chefs compete in this beloved annual cook-off and tasting event.
- Christmas in the Park (December) – A magical light display and holiday celebration at Heritage Park.
- Downtown Market and Music Series (Spring–Fall) – Live music, food trucks, and artisan vendors on the square.
If you are looking for unique day trips within 30 Minutes of Sulphur Springs, Texas:
- Cooper Lake State Park (20–25 min) – Enjoy swimming, boating, hiking, and camping at this scenic reservoir.
- Mount Vernon (25–30 min) – Stroll downtown, visit local art galleries, and tour historic homes.
- Emory (25–30 min) – Known for antique shops and access to Lake Fork for world-class bass fishing.
- Como (15–20 min) – Small town charm and a quick stop on the way to surrounding lakes.
- Birthright (20–25 min) – Peaceful countryside and access to the north side of Cooper Lake.
Frequently Asked Questions:
-
Question: Where is Sulphur Springs located?
Answer: Sulphur Springs is a medium-size city and the county seat of Hopkins County in Northeast Texas. -
Question: How did Sulphur Springs develop?
Answer: The town developed around the healing sulphur spring waters in the late 1840s. -
Question: What can visitors learn at the Southwest Dairy Museum and Learning Center?
Answer: The Southwest Dairy Museum tells the story of all facets of milk production and the area’s history of the dairy industry. It also features an old-fashioned soda bar that sells ice cream, sodas, and light lunches. -
Question: When is the downtown Farm and Art Market open in Sulphur Springs?
Answer: The downtown Farm and Art Market is open in the evening from May through October. -
Question: What does the Hopkins County Museum and Heritage Park feature?
Answer: The Hopkins County Museum and Heritage Park includes 11 acres of historical buildings that have been moved to the park for restoration and preservation.
At a Glance:
| Best Time to Visit | Places to Stay | Tips for Visiting |
|---|---|---|
| Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures, blooming flowers, and fewer crowds. | La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Sulphur Springs – A comfortable and convenient stay with great amenities. | Visit the Sulphur Springs City Park – Enjoy walking trails, picnic areas, and beautiful spring blooms in the park. |
| Summer (June-August) – Warm weather, ideal for outdoor activities, local events, and enjoying the surrounding nature. | Holiday Inn Express & Suites Sulphur Springs – A well-rated hotel offering a comfortable and relaxed atmosphere. | Explore the Hopkins County Veterans Memorial – Pay tribute to local veterans and enjoy the peaceful memorial area. |
| Fall (September-November) – Cooler temperatures, colorful foliage, and fewer tourists. | Best Western Trail Dust Inn & Suites – A cozy stay with access to local attractions and activities. | Attend the World Champion Rabbit Chasing Contest – Enjoy this unique, quirky annual event that draws crowds from all over. |
| Winter (December-February) – Cold temperatures, perfect for cozy indoor activities and local holiday events. | Super 8 by Wyndham Sulphur Springs – A budget-friendly option with comfortable accommodations. | Visit the Sulphur Springs Farmers Market – Enjoy fresh produce, local goods, and festive seasonal treats. |
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