Things to Do in Bonham Texas

undefined • October 1, 2022

Bonham, Texas—affectionately called “The Star of North Texas”—offers a delightful blend of history, outdoors, culture, and small‑town charm. Here’s a detailed guide to things to do when you visit:



🌳 Explore Nature & Parks

Bonham State Park

A gorgeous 261‑acre park built by the CCC in the 1930s, featuring a 65‑acre lake, 8.75 miles of trails, campsites, picnic spots, and even paddle‑boat rentals. Enjoy fishing, geocaching, and wildlife watching—for a true North Texas outdoor escape (en.wikipedia.org, en.wikipedia.org).

Lake Bonham Recreation Area & Powder Creek Park

Ideal for hiking, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, or just unwinding by the water (cityofbonham.org).

Bois d’Arc Lake & Caddo Grasslands

Just northeast of town, Bois d’Arc Lake is a massive new reservoir, perfect for boating, fishing, and wildlife viewing. The nearby Caddo National Grassland offers serene prairie hikes and ranching landscapes (cityofbonham.org).



🏛 History, Museums & Heritage

Sam Rayburn House State Historic Site & Library Museum

Explore the modest home built in 1916 and the Classical‑Revival library once used by the longest‑serving Speaker of the U.S. House. Period furnishings—from his D.C. office and White House chandelier—are preserved on site (en.wikipedia.org).

Fannin County Museum of History

Located in the historic Texas & Pacific depot, this museum features exhibits ranging from pioneer days to the World Wars (cityofbonham.org).

Fort Inglish Village

A living‑history attraction replicating Bonham's earliest settlement, with pioneer cabins, blacksmith shop, log school/church, general store, and broom‑making demonstrations (cityofbonham.org).

Fannin County Courthouse & Downtown Square

Admire the restored 1888 courthouse and then stroll around the charming square, filled with antique shops, cafés, and nice spots to relax (cityofbonham.org).



🛍 Arts, Culture & Events

Creative Arts Center

Catch rotating gallery shows and live music performances at this cultural hub downtown ().

Roy V. Floyd Community Center & Bonham Visitor Center

Learn about life in Bonham’s past and present, grab local maps, brochures, and info on barn‑quilt trails, attractions, and events (cityofbonham.org).

Bonham Trade Days & Barn‑Quilt Trail

Browse through vintage vendors during Trade Days, and don’t miss the Texas‑largest Barn Quilt Trail—stunning quilt‑patterned murals on barns throughout Fannin County (cityofbonham.org).



🍷 Local Flavors & Leisure

Neighbors Place Winery

Tucked outside town, perfect for a relaxed tasting in a charming rural setting—pair their stone‑fruit wines with the pastoral views ().

Antiquing & Shopping

Explore vintage treasures at multiple antique shops, including the Bonham Antique Mall downtown—one reviewer on Expedia called it “filled with wonderful surprises!” ().



📅 Seasonal Events

Bonham hosts vibrant community events throughout the year—including:

  • Lights Over Lake Bonham – Fireworks by the lake around July 4th (texashighways.com).
  • Quilt Hop – Summer celebration of quilting arts downtown (texashighways.com).
  • Autumn Bicycle Rally & Fall Festival – Family fun, rides, live music, vendors in October (texashighways.com).
  • Plus Fall rodeos, 5K runs, historic courthouse tours, and trade‑shows—check the city calendar for exact dates ().



🗺 Day Trip Ideas Nearby

  • Lake Texoma – A vast nearby freshwater lake known for boating and striped‑bass fishing (cityofbonham.org).
  • Coffee Mill Lake – Quiet fishing spot just east of town (cityofbonham.org).
  • North Texas Safari Park & Ladonia Fossil Park – Family‑friendly outings just a short drive away (yelp.com).



🧭 Sample 2‑Day Itinerary

Day 1:
Morning: Bonham State Park – hike, paddle, maybe fish.
Afternoon: Fort Inglish + Fannin County Museum.
Late afternoon: Antique shopping + winery visit.
Evening: Casual dinner downtown and live music at the arts center.

Day 2:
Morning: Tour Sam Rayburn House & Library.
Midday: Explore courthouse square, pick up brochures, snap photos.
Afternoon: Head out to Lake Texoma or Coffee Mill Lake for fishing or relaxing by the water.
Evening: If timing aligns, wrap up with fireworks or a Quilt Hop stroll.



Pro Tips

  • Stop by the Visitor Center on Main St. for free maps, Quilts Trail guide, and insider tips (cityofbonham.org, cityofbonham.org, cityofbonham.org, visitdallas-fortworth.com, southernliving.com).
  • Wear layers & comfy shoes—trail surfaces range from paved loops to primitive grass paths.
  • Plan ahead for rentals at the state park—they rent kayaks, canoes, and paddleboats (weather permitting) ().
  • Check event schedules—Bonham comes alive with festivals, rallies, and community gatherings nearly all year round ().



Whether you're chasing outdoor fun, diving into Texas history, or soaking up local culture, Bonham is a delightful discovery north of Dallas. Let me know if you want info on places to stay, eat, or hidden gems around town!

Share to social media

More posts

A waiter is carrying two plates of food in a restaurant.

Dining Options in Bonham Texas

By undefined • October 1, 2022
Local Dining Options
A woman is sitting on a couch looking at her cell phone.

Local Attractions

By undefined • October 1, 2022
Exploring Bonham, Texas: A Charming Getaway Near Sherman Nestled just 25 miles northeast of Sherman, Bonham is a delightful historic town brimming with small‑town charm, outdoor adventures, and rich legacy. Here's a tour of its top attractions—perfect for a weekend escape or a family outing! 1. Bonham State Park A gem of nature and history, this 261‑acre park features a 65‑acre lake, wooded trails, campsites, paddle‑boat rentals, and easy-to-moderate hiking/biking paths. Originally developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, it’s a peaceful retreat under two hours from Dallas ( tpwd.texas.gov , en.wikipedia.org ). 2. Sam Rayburn Heritage Sites Bonham is the hometown of Sam Rayburn, the longest-serving Speaker of the U.S. House. Two must-visits: Sam Rayburn House Museum : Rayburn’s 1916-extended family home is a National Historic Landmark, preserved with original furnishings ( en.wikipedia.org ). Sam Rayburn Library and Museum : A Classical Revival building (1957), showcasing his career with authentic fixtures—including a replica Washington office and old Speaker’s desk ( en.wikipedia.org ). 3. Fannin County Museum of History & Fort Inglish Village Housed in an old railway depot, the museum showcases pioneer life and war-era artifacts. Nearby, Fort Inglish recreates a 1830s frontier settlement with cabins, a blacksmith shop, a schoolhouse, and more—a vivid step back in time ( visitdallas-fortworth.com ). 4. Historic Courthouse Square & “Walkabout Tour” Stroll around the picturesque downtown square surrounded by historic buildings. The Fannin County Courthouse (built 1889) is a Second-Empire highlight undergoing thoughtful restoration ( en.wikipedia.org ). Don’t miss the self-guided “Walkabout Tour,” with interpretive signs telling Bonham’s story—it’s a great way to explore at your own pace ( facebook.com ). 5. Lake Bonham & Caddo National Grassland Outdoor lovers, rejoice! Enjoy fishing, boating, or paddling at Lake Bonham Recreation Area or explore the vast Caddo National Grassland nearby, offering scenic drives, hunting, wildlife viewing, and lake access ( cityofbonham.org ). 6. Local Culture & Community Events Bonham Visitor Center : Located on Main St., it's a great resource for brochures, Barn Quilt Trail maps (Texas's largest), and local art exhibits ( cityofbonham.org ). Creative Arts Center and Bonham Trade Days : They host concerts, art shows, and craft fairs—check the center’s calendar or Eventbrite for what's on ( cityofbonham.org ). 7. Discover Hidden Gems Neighbors Place Winery : A quaint local winery offering wine tastings (great for a relaxing afternoon) ( cityofbonham.org ). North Texas Safari Park & Majestic 6 Theatre : Family-friendly wildlife encounters and vintage movie nights round out the experience ( us.trip.com ). Itinerary Suggestions Weekend Refresher Saturday: Morning hike or paddle at Bonham State Park → Lunch in town → Afternoon museum visits (Sam Rayburn museum + Fannin County Museum) → Dinner downtown. Sunday: Stroll the historic square (inc. tour) → Wine tasting at Neighbors Place → Optional trip to nearby Lake Bonham or Caddo Grasslands. Family Fun or Day Trip A day packed with nature at the state park, lunch at the Visitor Center, followed by a quick history tour downtown is a simple yet memorable adventure. Tips & Travel Info Visitor Center Address : 327 N. Main St.—a good first stop for maps, brochures, and friendly assistance ( en.wikipedia.org , cityofbonham.org ). Best Times to Visit : Spring and fall offer comfortable weather ideal for outdoor fun. In summer, explore museums or find shade at the lakeside. Stay : Camping in the state park is available, or choose local B&Bs and hotels in town. Final Word From scenic trails to presidential history and creative arts, Bonham is a rich tapestry of Texan heritage and outdoor charm. Whether you're seeking relaxation, exploration, or a cultural weekend, this friendly town promises an authentic and rewarding escape just minutes from Sherman. Let me know if you’d like help planning a route, or need tips on dining, lodging, or seasonal events!
A man and a woman are sitting on a dock near the water.

Travel Tips

By undefined • October 1, 2022
Planning a trip to Bonham, Texas? Nestled just an hour north of Dallas, this charming town offers a perfect blend of history, outdoor adventure, and small‑town charm. Whether you're in for a day trip, a weekend getaway, or a relaxing retreat, here are my top travel tips to make the most of your visit: 🗺️ 1. Start at the Historic Square & Visitor Center Bonham Visitor & Information Center sits on the courthouse square and is your first stop for brochures, maps, and friendly local tips ( cityofbonham.org ). Don’t miss the " Bonham Walkabout Tour on the Square "—a self‑guided walking tour highlighting historic buildings and tales from Bonham’s past ( texastimetravel.com ). 🏛 2. Immerse Yourself in History Fannin County Courthouse is an 1888 Second Empire–style icon, recently restored—perfect photo ops and a dose of local architecture ( en.wikipedia.org ). Visit the Fannin County Museum of History and Fort Inglish Village to explore pioneer life in early Texas ( texastimetravel.com ). Dive into political history at the Sam Rayburn House (1916) and the Sam Rayburn Library & Museum —tour his original home, furniture, even his 1947 Cadillac ( en.wikipedia.org ). 🌲 3. Explore the Great Outdoors Bonham State Park sprawls across 261 acres with a 65‑acre lake. Ideal for camping, hiking (over 11 miles of trails), paddling, swimming, fishing, geocaching—and even group retreats ( en.wikipedia.org ). For more water fun, don't skip Lake Bonham Recreation Area and new Bois d’Arc Lake nearby—great for kayaking, boating, and scenic picnics ( expedia.com ). 🍷 4. Seasonal & Local Events Bonham Trade Days bring together antique stalls, local crafts, and fresh eats—check the schedule via the Visitor Center ( cityofbonham.org ). Keep an eye on the Creative Arts Center for live music, theater, and community performances ( cityofbonham.org ). You might catch rodeos, livestock shows, or equestrian events at the Fannin County Multipurpose Complex ( visitdallas-fortworth.com ). 🛍️ 5. Eat, Drink & Shop Local Wander the Square for quaint cafés, local diners, and quirky boutiques perfect for souvenirs. Neighbors Place Winery , along with nearby Grayson Hills Winery , offers a welcoming spot to taste local Texas wine ( cityofbonham.org ). Antique lovers, rejoice— Bonham Antique Mall is a treasure trove for vintage finds and flea‑market-style browsing ( visitdallas-fortworth.com ). 🛌 6. Choose the Right Stay Opt for a peaceful cabin, lakeside lodge, or RV site near Bonham State Park or Lake Bonham —great if you’re aiming for a nature‑based retreat ( expedia.com ). For a central, walkable experience, look into lodges or B&Bs near the downtown Square. ⏱️ Bonus Tips Book early if you're camping or attending events—Bonham State Park and Trade Days fill up fast, especially on weekends. Weather watch —spring and fall bring mild weather perfect for outdoor exploration; summers can be hot, so pack sunscreen and stay hydrated. Drive smart —a car is essential. Scenic back‑roads around Bois d’Arc Lake and the Quilt Trail are highlights you don’t want to miss ( visitdallas-fortworth.com , cityofbonham.org ). Friendly locals —Bonham folks are welcoming and love sharing stories. Pop into the Visitor Center or a café, and you might end up with insider tips. Bonham is proof that you don’t have to go far from the big city to discover unforgettable history, scenic beauty, and genuine Texas hospitality. Use these travel tips, pack your sense of adventure, and get ready to fall in love with Bonham’s timeless charm. Happy travels and safe journeys!