Looking for a classic Texas getaway filled with antiques, small-town charm, and outdoor fun? Head to Canton! Best known for hosting the world’s largest flea market, Canton blends friendly hospitality with shopping treasures, parks, and nearby lakes. Whether you're hunting for vintage finds, camping under the stars, or savoring country cooking, Canton is a laid-back escape with plenty to explore.
Best Time to Visit
The best time to visit Canton is from spring through fall (March through November). Mild to warm temperatures are perfect for exploring First Monday Trade Days, local parks, and outdoor markets. Fall is especially popular for cooler shopping days and seasonal events.
How to Get There
- If you are traveling by car: Canton is located along I-20, about 1 hour east of Dallas and 1.5 hours west of Tyler.
- By Air: The nearest major airport is Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), approximately 1.5 hours away.
- By Bus: Limited regional bus options are available; having a car is highly recommended for easy travel in and around Canton.
Where to Stay
- Mill Creek Ranch Resort – Award-winning resort with charming cottages, RV sites, and nature trails near First Monday Trade Days grounds.
- Best Western Canton Inn – Comfortable, affordable hotel with a pool, located just minutes from the downtown shopping areas.
- Silver Spur Resort – Family-friendly resort featuring cabins, a ranch-style lodge, a pond, and an escape room experience on-site.
Best Things to Do
1. Shop, Explore, and Hunt for Treasures at First Monday
Rating: ★★★★★
The First Monday Trade Days of Canton, Texas began as just a flea market over one hundred years ago, but now is home to some of best home furnishings, collectibles, and antiques in the area. While many things have changed over the more than 100 years at the Original First Monday Park, the authentic “down-home” human relationship between shoppers and vendors still remains and keeps people coming back to the unique market. The largest outdoor trade days in the world, the First Monday Trade Days take place the Thursday to Sunday before the first Monday of each month.
800 1st Monday Ln, Canton, TX 75103, Phone: 903-567-6556
2. If You’re Craving Farm Fun and Festive Days, Visit Yesterland Farm
The Yesterland Farm offers visitors a chance to take a step back into the past for a nostalgic experience, providing old-fashioned "fun on the farm," but with a bit of a twist. From fall events like the Fall Festival, the Creepy Corn Maze, amusement rides, Swamp Zombie Paintball, hayrides, and a pumpkin path to the holiday wonderland with Santa, Christmas trees, and much more; there's plenty of fun to be had for people of all ages at the Yesterland Farm. The farm is also conveniently located only around a mile away from the town’s famous First Monday.
15410 I-20, Canton, TX 75103, Phone: 903-567-2255
Activities and Attractions for Couples:
3. Climb High and Chase Adventure at The Mountain
The Mountain is unique to Canton's First Monday weekends, providing people with a taste of the Old West. Nestled on the wooded hillside across from Dog Alley and next to the 7 Pavilions, The Mountain features live gunfighters, family fun, good food, demonstrating artists, live music, and much more. Guests can stay overnight on The Mountain and dine at unique restaurants, like the dinner theater, or shop late at the many unique shops managed by owners wearing period clothing along the winding streets. The Texicans, the attraction’s old west gunfighters, put on a good show for visitors as well.
542 E Dallas St, Canton, TX 75103, Phone: 903-567-5445
4. Bite Into Classic Comfort Food at Dairy Palace
A family-friendly and casual restaurant in the town of Canton, Texas, the Dairy Palace is a place known for its great tasting, quality food and excellent customer service. Owned and operated by the same original family that opened it more than 25 years ago, the owners still continue the same commitment to integrity and excellence that has allowed them to be a success for so many years. The restaurant is open every day of the week, twenty-four hours a day, with the only exception being Christmas Day, serving a menu focused around hand-dipped Blue Bell ice cream, burgers, and fries.
2301 N Trade Days Blvd, Canton, TX 75103, Phone: 903-567-6551
Plan Your Trip