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Things to Do in Greenville TX: Complete Guide for Visitors & Locals [2025]
- Villages at Greenville
- 23 minutes ago
- 8 min read
Welcome to Greenville, Texas – a charming city with a rich history and plenty of modern attractions to explore. Whether you’re a visitor planning your first trip or a local looking for new experiences, this guide covers all the exciting things to do in Greenville TX. From historical museums and entertainment venues to outdoor recreation, shopping destinations and local eateries, Greenville offers something for everyone!
What is Greenville, Texas Famous For?
Greenville, TX is known for its rich cotton farming history, being the hometown of WWII hero Audie Murphy, and its historic downtown area. Originally established in the mid-1800s, the city has transformed from an agricultural center to a vibrant community with diverse attractions while maintaining its small-town charm.
The city proudly celebrates its heritage through well-preserved historical sites and museums, while also embracing modern entertainment options, outdoor recreation, and a growing dining scene. Many Greenville TX attractions showcase this blend of history and contemporary culture that makes the city unique.
Museums & Historical Sites in Greenville TX
Audie Murphy Museum: A Local Treasure
The Audie Murphy Museum showcases the life of America’s most decorated WWII hero and Hunt County’s cotton heritage. Located in the historic Katy Depot building, this museum features interactive exhibits on Audie Murphy’s military achievements and acting career, along with displays on the region’s cotton farming history.
Visitors can explore educational programs and enjoy guided tours of the facility. The museum is currently planning a special 100th Birthday Celebration for Audie Murphy on June 21, 2025, featuring a one-man show by actor Duffy Hudson and a complimentary hot dog dinner. This free event is open to the public and promises to be a highlight for history enthusiasts.
Hours: Tuesday-Saturday, 10 AM to 5 PM
Location: Historic Katy Depot building
Admission: $5 Adults, $2 Children
The Historic and Beautiful Texan Theatre
The historic Texan Theatre hosts a variety of performances throughout the year, from concerts and community theater to classic film screenings. Located at 2712 Lee Street, this beautifully restored venue is a centerpiece of Greenville’s cultural scene.
Upcoming Texan Theatre events include:
Date | Event | Time | Ticket Price |
June 27, 2025 | Friday Fun Day Movie | 12:00 PM | Free |
June 27, 2025 | Exile Concert | 7:10 PM | $199 |
September 26, 2025 | The Boxmasters | 7:00 PM | $399 |
The theater’s mix of free community events and premium concerts makes it accessible for all budgets. Tickets for popular Texan Theatre events often sell out quickly, so booking in advance is recommended.
Greenville Municipal Auditorium
At the Greenville Municipal Auditorium, catch popular country bands and acts, and theatre shows like the Importance of Being Earnest playing in November 2025.
Family Entertainment and Fun
Summer Fun at Splash Kingdom Water Park
When temperatures rise, Splash Kingdom Water Park becomes one of the most popular things to do in Greenville TX for families. The water park features lazy rivers, wave pools, and exciting slides that appeal to visitors of all ages.
Operating Hours:
Regular Season: Weekdays 11 AM-7 PM, Weekends 10 AM-8 PM
Peak Summer: Extended hours available
Note: Hours may vary during holidays and special events
Tickets: General Admission is $25.95
Located just off I-30, Splash Kingdom is easily accessible and offers a refreshing escape during hot Texas summers.
Family Entertainment at Shenaniganz Entertainment Center
Shenaniganz Entertainment Center provides year-round indoor fun with bowling, laser tag, arcade games, and virtual reality experiences. This modern facility also features a spacious bar and dining options, making it perfect for family outings, date nights, or group gatherings.
The center’s diverse offerings make it one of the most versatile Greenville TX attractions, appealing to visitors of all ages and interests. From competitive gaming to casual dining, Shenaniganz has something for everyone. Open until 12 a.m. Friday and Saturday. Opens around noon most days.
To bowl, it's $4.50 per Game and $25.95 per Hour.
Alley Cats & Majestic 12 Theatres
For movie enthusiasts and bowling fans, Alley Cats and Majestic 12 Theatres offer entertainment options in a comfortable setting. Current operating hours are:
Day | Hours |
Monday-Thursday | 11:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
Friday | 11:00 AM - 12:00 AM |
Saturday | 10:00 AM - 12:00 AM |
Sunday | 10:00 AM - 10:00 PM |
The venue features a full-service bar, dining options, and the latest movie screenings, making it ideal for casual outings with friends and family.
Outdoor Adventures in Greenville, TX
Outdoor Activities in the Northeast Texas Trail
Just 20 minutes away, the Northeast Texas Trail offers miles of scenic paths perfect for walking, running, and biking.
Nature enthusiasts will enjoy exploring the longest trail in Texas, connecting 19 cities across seven counties with more than 100 rail bridges and several creeks. It is 132 miles long!
The Northeast Texas Trail is especially beautiful during spring when wildflowers bloom along the well-maintained routes.
The trail is currently in excellent condition with:
Clear, debris-free paths
Maintained facilities including restrooms and picnic areas
Trail markers for easy navigation
Lush greenery and natural scenery
For the best experience, check weather forecasts before visiting and consider exploring during off-peak hours for a less crowded experience.
Explore Lake Tawakoni & Lake Tawakoni State Park
Lake Tawakoni is a 37,879 acre reservoir in Northeast Texas. You can go fishing, try out the kid fish pond and you don’t even need a license, according to the State Park website. You can even borrow fishing gear at the headquarters to use in the park.
You can also hike and mountain bike, go kayaking or canoeing (rentals available). There are camp sites, shopping at the Lake Tawakoni Trading Post, and just enjoy the shore and cool waters of Lake Tawakoni for some great weekend fun!
Entrance is only $5. The park is open from 6am to 10pm and is located at 10822 FM 2475 Wills Point, Texas 75169.
And within 30 minutes, you can also enjoy Lake Fork, Cooper Lake, Lake Lavon and Lake Ray Hubbard!!
Savannah's Meadow - Stay in a Tree House!
Fun Fact: You can also stay in a luxury TREEHOUSE in Savannah’s Meadow in nearby Celeste!
ShangraiLlama: Castle House with Beautiful Llamas! What?!
And finally, go see the llamas!!! In a castle!!! This has to be the most unique and coolest things yet - located between Royse City and Greenville, Texas!!!
This is a replica Scottish Castle that comes with a llama barn, llama’s and walking trails! A unique experience to say the least!
Shopping in Greenville, TX
Popular Greenville TX Shopping Centers and Boutiques
Old Town Shopping Center is one of the largest Greenville TX shopping centers with over 30 diverse stores and services. Strategically positioned between Lovers Lane and Southwestern at 5500 Greenville Ave, this shopping destination features notable tenants including Namak Indian Restaurant, Potbelly Sandwich Shop, Michaels, and PetSmart.
Beyond the major shopping centers, Greenville boasts charming specialty shops worth exploring:
Creative Spot Gallery & Gifts: Browse local art and handcrafted items
Rebel Marys Boutique: Discover bohemian clothing and unique accessories
Landon Winery: Shop for local wines while enjoying occasional live music
Seasonal & Local Shopping Experiences in Greenville, TX
Greenville hosts several seasonal shopping events throughout the year that enhance the retail experience:
Holiday Market: Held on December 13th from 10 AM to 2 PM at Market Square, featuring handcrafted goods, ornaments, winter wear, seasonal treats, and live music
Downtown Stroll: A November event with extended shopping hours and special promotions
Christmas Parade: Combines festive celebrations with holiday shopping opportunities
Park Street Carriage Rides: Seasonal rides that pass by downtown shopping areas
Farmers Market: Open on Saturdays during summer months with fresh produce and local crafts
These events provide unique shopping opportunities beyond the everyday retail experience, making them popular things to do in Greenville TX during different seasons.
Dining Scene & Local Favorites
Best Local Restaurants in Greenville TX for Every Taste
Greenville’s dining scene encompasses various cuisines to satisfy different palates. According to local reviews, some standout establishments include:
Restaurant Name | Rating | Specialty |
4.4/5 | Fried bologna sandwich | |
4.4/5 | Burgers and tater tots | |
TaMolly’s Mexican Restaurant | 4.0/5 | Cheese enchiladas |
4.3/5 | Pizza and pasta | |
5.0/5 | Breakfast specialties | |
5.0/5 | Comfort food, with a focus on chicken fried steak and momo (Himalayan dumplings). | |
4.4/5 | Burgers and wings | |
4.5/5 | Breakfast, Brunch, and Burgers | |
4.6/5 | Breakfast and comfort food |
Other Favorite Eats & Restaurants in Greenville, Texas
For those seeking authentic local flavors, these establishments offer signature dishes and experiences:
Cracker Barrel: Open from 6 AM to 10 PM (11 PM on weekends), serving homestyle meals in a country setting
Texas Roadhouse: Operating from 4 PM to 10 PM on weekdays, known for hand-cut steaks and fresh-baked bread
Bottlecap Alley: Serving fresh Angus beef burgers in a casual atmosphere
Snuffers Restaurant: Home to legendary burgers and their famous Cheddar Fries
Cotton Patch Cafe: Featuring Southwestern recipes made from scratch
Many restaurants in Greenville accommodate various dietary needs with vegetarian options, gluten-free choices, and family-friendly environments at different price points.
What to Do in Greenville for a Day
If you only have 24 hours to explore Greenville, here’s an ideal itinerary to make the most of your time:
Morning: Start your day at the Audie Murphy Museum (opens at 10 AM) to learn about local history and the famous WWII hero. Spend about 1-2 hours exploring the exhibits and interactive displays.
Lunch: Head downtown to enjoy a meal at one of Greenville’s local favorites like The Ashen Rose or Terry’s Place, where you can sample their signature dishes.
Afternoon: Depending on the season, cool off at Splash Kingdom Water Park or enjoy indoor entertainment at Shenaniganz. Alternatively, take a relaxing walk along the Northeast Texas Trail to experience the natural beauty of the area.
Shopping: Spend an hour or two browsing the shops at Old Town Shopping Center or exploring unique boutiques downtown.
Evening: Catch a show at the Texan Theatre or enjoy dinner at one of Greenville’s higher-end restaurants like Texas Roadhouse or Snuffers.
This itinerary provides a balanced mix of history, entertainment, outdoor activities, shopping, and dining – giving you a comprehensive taste of what Greenville has to offer in just one day.
Seasonal Events & Activities
Throughout the year, Greenville hosts various events that provide additional things to do in Greenville TX:
Hunt County Fair: A traditional county fair with rides, exhibits, and competitions!
Bob Wills Fiddle Festival: Celebrating Texas music heritage with performances and competitions. Happening Oct. 31 and Nov. 1, 2025.
Cotton Patch Bicycle Ride: A community cycling event for riders of all skill levels. Tons of routes available from the 6 mile road rally route to the 100 mile road rally route!
Bottle Rocket Bash: A festive July 4th celebration from 6pm to 10pm with fireworks and family activities at Greenville Sports Park. But don’t forget, the 4th of July Parade also happens July 4th at 10a.m. on Park Street! Includes a marching band, classic cars, horses, and more!
These seasonal activities add variety to Greenville’s year-round attractions and provide opportunities to experience the community’s culture and traditions.
Why Living in Greenville, Texas is Awesome for Villages Residents
Residents at Villages at Greenville benefit from easy access to all the attractions, shopping centers, and dining options mentioned in this guide. The convenient location allows residents to enjoy a vibrant lifestyle with diverse entertainment options just minutes away.
The community’s amenities complement Greenville’s offerings, with resort-style features like a pool, fitness center, and dog park providing additional recreation options. This combination of on-site amenities and nearby attractions creates an ideal living environment for residents seeking both comfort and entertainment.
Villages at Greenville offers 1-, 2-, and 3-bedroom luxury homes in a gated Greenville, Texas community, plus all the resort-style amenities you could want!
Whether you’re visiting for a day or planning to stay longer, Greenville, TX offers a diverse range of activities, attractions, shopping experiences, and dining options to explore.
From historical sites and family entertainment to outdoor adventures and local cuisine, there are plenty of things to do in Greenville TX throughout the year.
Use this guide to plan your perfect visit and discover all that this charming Texas city has to offer!
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