Need a historic small-town escape just outside Dallas? Head to Terrell! Rich in railroad heritage and Southern charm, Terrell offers antique shops, WWII aviation history, and a welcoming downtown. Whether you're visiting for the history, outlet shopping, or a peaceful weekend stroll, Terrell is a convenient and relaxing getaway.
Terrell, TX Highlights:
- For Adventurous Travelers: Skydive over East Texas – Experience tandem skydiving with scenic aerial views at Skydive Spaceland Dallas.
- For History Buffs: Tour the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum – Explore rare WWII aviation history where British pilots once trained in Texas.
- For Shoppers: Find deals at the Tanger Outlets Terrell – Shop top brands and designer outlets just minutes from downtown.
- For Couples: Stroll downtown Terrell’s historic district – Discover boutiques, cafés, and art murals in a walkable, charming setting.
- For Families: Enjoy a picnic and play at Ben Gill Park – Wide green spaces, sports courts, trails, and playgrounds for all ages.
Best Time to Visit Terrell, TX
The best time to visit Terrell is in the spring or fall (March–May and September–November). Enjoy pleasant weather for outdoor festivals, antique shopping, and strolls around historic neighborhoods.
How to Get to Terrell, TX
- If you are traveling by car: Terrell is located on U.S. Highway 80 and I-20, about 30 minutes east of Dallas.
- By Plane: Dallas Love Field (DAL) and Dallas-Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) are both within an hour’s drive.
- By Train: Amtrak and DART rail do not reach Terrell directly, but rental cars and rideshares are available from Dallas stations.
Where to Stay in Terrell, TX
- Recommended for Families: Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Terrell – Modern hotel with indoor pool, free breakfast, and proximity to the outlets.
- For Couples: The Silver Saloon Guest Rooms – Enjoy live music and cozy rooms above one of Terrell’s top nightlife spots.
- For Budget Travelers: La Quinta Inn by Wyndham Terrell – Affordable stay with all the essentials and quick access to highways and shops.
Best Things to Do in Terrell, TX
⮕ No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum
Discover WWII aviation history and explore fascinating pilot training exhibits.
A visit to the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum is perhaps the thing to do in Terrell, Texas for aviation enthusiasts and history buffs. Not widely known, thousands of British soldiers during World War II were trained as pilots in America. There were six different locations where these pilots were trained in the United States, with Terrel being the home of not only the largest British Flying Academy, but the first. After Pearl Harbor, American Aviation Cadets were trained at the academy as well. The museum features uniforms, training materials, log books, and other items on display.
119 Silent Wings Blvd, Terrell, TX 75160, Phone: 972-551-1122
⮕ Jamie Foxx Performing Arts Center
Enjoy dynamic performances and admire local artistic talent.
Opening its doors in 2003, the Jamie Foxx Performing Arts Center is considered to be on the state’s premier performance venues, hosting approximately twenty-five rental events and sixty-five school events every year. These events include a wide variety of professional concerts with performers from all across the world and nearly all TISD school drama and music events. Along with these events, the Terrell Performing Arts Center is home to Lake Country Gospel Jubilee Productions and the E! Terrell Entertainment Series, which offers hands-on student enrichment performances each year for all TISD students with a broad range of performances.
400 Poetry Rd, Terrell, TX 75160, Phone: 972-563-7525
⮕ Thrillvania Haunted House Park
Experience heart-pounding thrills and explore eerie haunted attractions.
While countless haunted houses appear across the United States in October, the Thrillvania Haunted House Park in Terrell, Texas isn’t quite like all the rest. This unique attraction features three different haunted houses, such as the famed Verdun Manor. The legend goes that Baron Michael Verdun, a “psychopathic werewolf,” built this grotesque manor. He conducted experiments on travelers at the house until an angry mob set his home on fire, killing both him and his wife Cassandra. He now supposedly haunts Verdun Manor. There are several other “haunted” aspects of the Thrillvania Haunted House Park for visitors to explore as well.
2330 Co Rd 138, Terrell, TX 75161, Phone: 972-524-2868
Where to Eat in Terrell, TX
⮕ Cole Mountain Restaurant and Catering Co.
Savor homestyle barbecue and enjoy a cozy dining atmosphere.
The Cole Mountain Restaurant and Catering Company in Terrell began with just a perfected barbeque sauce recipe of the Godoy Family. After receiving constant praise for their sauce-covered barbeque at family events and community gatherings, the family decided to test their food and sauce on a much larger scale. The family owned and operated Cole Mountain Restaurant today serves fall-of-the-bone barbeque meats that people crave, as well as desserts that taste like the recipe is taken straight from “grandma’s recipe book.” This barbeque eatery is open Monday through Thursday for lunch and Fridays and Saturdays for lunch and dinner.
419 E Moore Ave, Terrell, TX 75160, Phone: 972-524-0498
More Places to Eat in Terrell, TX
- For BBQ Fans: Hickory Roots BBQ – Slow-cooked brisket, ribs, and house-made sides served with Texas flair.
- For a Casual Meal: The Shed Café – Cozy local favorite for breakfast, burgers, and homestyle specials.
If you are interested in local events:
- For History Enthusiasts: Terrell Heritage Jubilee (April) – Parade, carnival rides, arts & crafts, and a classic car show celebrating local heritage.
- For Families: Terrell Outdoor Market Days (monthly) – Shop local vendors, food trucks, and family-friendly activities downtown.
- For Holiday Fun: Terrell Christmas Parade & Tree Lighting (December) – Celebrate with festive floats, lights, and small-town holiday cheer.
Day Trip Itineraries Within 30 Minutes of Terrell, Texas:
- For Big-City Vibes: Downtown Dallas (30 min) – Explore museums, Deep Ellum’s music scene, and world-class dining in the big city.
- For Nature Enthusiasts: Kaufman Lake and Parks (20 min) – Fish, picnic, or take a quiet stroll in peaceful green spaces nearby.
- For Wine Lovers: Sugar Ridge Winery (25 min) – Sip local wines in a rustic countryside setting with tastings and live music.
- For Family Fun: Canton First Monday Trade Days (30 min) – Visit one of the country’s largest flea markets with food, crafts, and antiques.
- For Aviation Fans: Lancaster Airport and Cold War Air Museum (30 min) – View Cold War-era aircraft and explore aviation history exhibits.
Frequently Asked Questions:
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Where is Terrell located?
- Located around thirty miles from the bustling city of Dallas, the classic small town of Terrell was once the talk of newspapers, known for its mysteries and secrets.
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How does Terrell compare to other destinations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area?
- While it may not be as lively as other destinations in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, Terrell has a unique character that makes it worth a visit.
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What is a must-visit destination in Terrell for paranormal fans?
- The Thrillvania Haunted House Park is a must-visit destination for fans of the paranormal.
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What historical aviation site can visitors explore in Terrell?
- In addition to its paranormal fame, Terrell is home to the first British Flying Academy, and aviation enthusiasts can explore the No. 1 British Flying Training School Museum.
At a Glance:
Best Time to Visit
Places to Stay
Tips for Visiting
Spring (March-May) – Mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers, great for outdoor activities.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott Terrell – A modern hotel with great amenities.
Visit Terrell Heritage Museum – Learn about the town’s history and WWII connections.
Summer (June-August) – Hot and sunny, ideal for water activities and shopping.
La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Terrell – A comfortable stay with easy access to attractions.
Shop at the Tanger Outlets – Find great deals at brand-name stores.
Fall (September-November) – Pleasant weather and festive events, perfect for exploring.
Holiday Inn Express & Suites Terrell – A convenient and comfortable lodging option.
Attend the Terrell Ghost Walk – Experience a spooky and historic side of the town.
Winter (December-February) – Cool and festive, great for holiday events and quiet retreats.
Quality Inn & Suites Terrell – A budget-friendly stay with easy highway access.
Visit the Christmas in Terrell festival – Enjoy festive lights, markets, and holiday cheer.
Plan Your Trip