Nestled in Northeast Texas, near the Oklahoma border, Fannin County is a charming destination that combines rich history, scenic landscapes, and small-town hospitality. With a population of approximately 35,662 as of the 2020 census, this county offers a variety of attractions and activities, centered around its county seat, Bonham, and extending to quaint towns like Honey Grove, Leonard, Trenton, and others. Whether you’re drawn to historical sites, outdoor adventures, or unique cultural experiences, Fannin County has something for everyone. Below, we explore the cities and towns of Fannin County and highlight the must-visit attractions and events that make this region a hidden gem.

Cities and Towns in Fannin County

Fannin County is home to a collection of cities and towns, each contributing to the area’s unique character. According to sources like Texas Escapes, the county includes the following communities:

• Bonham - County seat, largest city, hub of cultural and historical attractions
• Honey Grove - Known as “The Sweetest Town in Texas,” rich in historic architecture
• Leonard - Small, community-focused town with rural charm
• Trenton - Quiet, rural town with access to nearby outdoor activities
• Savoy - Small community with historical significance
• Dodd City - Known for its peaceful, small-town atmosphere
• Ector - Offers a glimpse into rural Texas life
• Ravenna - Smallest city in the county, quaint and serene
• Windom - Historic community with a focus on local heritage
• Ladonia - Known for nearby fossil hunting opportunities
• Ivanhoe - Rural

Rural community with historical significance:

• Telephone - Small, quiet town with rural appeal
• Bailey - Rural community near Leonard
• Randolph - Small community with historical roots
• These towns, along with others like Bagby, Gober, Mulberry, and Orangeville, offer a glimpse into the rural charm and history of Fannin County, making it a delightful region to explore.

Attractions in Bonham

Bonham, the county seat, is the cultural and economic heart of Fannin County, offering a wealth of attractions for visitors. Here are some highlights:

Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site

Located at 890 W. State Hwy 56, this National Historic Landmark preserves the 1916 home of Sam Rayburn, the longest-serving Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives. The two-story house, filled with original furnishings, photographs, and personal belongings, offers guided tours that delve into Rayburn’s life and his significant contributions to 20th-century American politics. Visitors can also see his 1947 Cadillac and historic outbuildings like a smokehouse and barn. The site is open Tuesday to Saturday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., with tours at the top of each hour (Texas Historical Commission).

Sam Rayburn Library and Museum

Situated at 800 W. Sam Rayburn Drive, this museum, operated by the Dolph Briscoe Center for American History, showcases artifacts and documents from Rayburn’s career, including a replica of his Speaker’s office. It’s a treasure trove for history enthusiasts, offering insights into his legislative achievements during eight presidential administrations (Dolph Briscoe Center).

Fannin County Museum of History

Housed in the restored 1900 Texas and Pacific Railway Depot at 1 Main St., this museum chronicles Fannin County’s history from pre-Revolutionary times through World War II. Exhibits include Native American artifacts, a restored WWII PT-19 Fairchild airplane, a fire engine from the 1929 courthouse fire, and memorabilia of jazz guitarist Charlie Christian. Admission is free, though donations are appreciated (Fannin County Museum).

Fort Inglish Village

This replica of Bonham’s original 1837 settlement, located at 116 W. 5th St., features log cabins, a blacksmith shop, and other structures that bring pioneer life to reality. It’s an engaging stop for families and history buffs (City of Bonham).

Bonham State Park

Just northeast of Bonham, this park features a 65-acre lake, 8.75 miles of hiking and biking trails, and opportunities for fishing, boating, and camping. The Civilian Conservation Corps built the park during the Great Depression, adding to its historical charm. Ranger programs and a Junior Ranger program enhance the experience (Texas Parks & Wildlife).

North Texas Safari Park

Located at 159 Private Rd 1120, this drive-through safari allows visitors to feed and observe exotic animals like giraffes and zebras. It’s a fun, family-friendly activity, with additional costs for special experiences like feeding giraffes (North Texas Safari Park).

Creative Arts Center

At 200 W. 5th St., this center promotes local art through exhibitions, classes, and a gift shop featuring handmade jewelry and crafts. It’s a great place to discover Fannin County’s creative spirit (Creative Arts Center).

Powder Creek Park

This park offers a 1-mile trail for walking and enjoying nature, perfect for a relaxing outing (City of Bonham).

Attractions in Honey Grove

Honey Grove, known as “The Sweetest Town in Texas,” is a small city with a rich historical heritage.

Historic Downtown and Walking Tour

The downtown area features well-preserved buildings, antique shops, and local restaurants. A walking tour of the historic square, available through the Honey Grove Chamber, highlights over 50 historic structures, reflecting the town’s prosperous past as a cotton hub.

Davy Crockett Quilt Trail

Part of the Fannin County Barn Quilt Trail, this route showcases colorful quilt squares on barns and buildings, celebrating the town’s connection to Davy Crockett, who reportedly named the area (Texas Time Travel).

Lake Crockett

This serene lake offers fishing, boating, and picnicking, making it a peaceful spot for outdoor recreation (MapQuest).

Other Towns: Leonard, Trenton, and Beyond

Leonard: A small town with a strong sense of community, Leonard offers a quiet retreat with access to nearby attractions like Lake Lavon for fishing (Best Places). Local events, such as the Leonard Police Department’s Spring Bash, add to its charm (WikiDo).

Trenton: Known for its rural feel, Trenton provides access to nearby farms and ranches, such as Bear Creek Farm, where visitors can enjoy horseback riding and petting zoos (Yelp).

Other Communities: Towns like Savoy, Dodd City, Ector, Ravenna, Windom, Ladonia, Ivanhoe, Bailey, and Randolph offer rural tranquility and historical significance. For example, Ladonia is near the Ladonia Fossil Park, where visitors can hunt for ancient fossils (Yelp).

County-Wide Attractions

Fannin County Barn Quilt Trail

The largest barn quilt trail in Texas, this attraction features over 100 colorful quilt squares displayed on barns, houses, and fences across the county. Divided into three routes—James Butler Bonham, Bailey Inglish, and Davy Crockett—the trail offers a scenic driving tour through Fannin County’s countryside. Maps are available at the Bonham Visitor Center (Bonham Visitor Center).

Lake Fannin Wilderness Park

Located within the 1600-acre Caddo Grasslands, Lake Fannin is a National Historic Landmark offering camping, fishing, and hiking. Volunteers are working to restore the park’s lodge and facilities, making it a promising destination for future visitors (Fannin County).

Events and Festivals

Fannin County hosts several events that showcase its vibrant community spirit:

Bonham Trade Days:

Held the weekend after the first Monday of each month at 1100 W. 5th St., this flea market is one of North Texas’s longest-running trade days. Visitors can browse antiques, tools, clothing, and enjoy food vendors serving corny dogs and lemonade (Bonham Chamber).

Fannin County Fair:

This annual event features livestock shows, agricultural exhibits, and family-friendly entertainment, celebrating the county’s rural heritage (Fannin County Fair).

Davy Crockett Days:

Held in Honey Grove, this festival honors the town’s historical connection to Davy Crockett with parades, crafts, and community activities (Fannin County).

Conclusion

Fannin County, Texas, is a destination that blends historical significance with natural beauty and cultural charm. From the historic sites of Bonham to the scenic Barn Quilt Trail and vibrant community events, the county offers a diverse range of experiences for visitors. Its proximity to Dallas (about 55 miles northeast) makes it an accessible getaway for those seeking an authentic Texas experience. Plan your visit to Fannin County to discover its rich heritage and warm hospitality.