Dec 15, 2020

tiger in zoo forney, txFrom go-kart races to bass fishing, Texas offers plenty of endeavors to keep kids busy. Make lasting memories for the whole family with any one of these terrific activities near Mabank. For more ideas on how to spend a beautiful day outside in the Mabank area, check out these fun suggestions. Or get your bathing suits on and take a dip in Cedar Creek Lake as a family!

 

Explore Both Nature and History

Visit the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Gardens in Athens and connect with nature. Stroll along 2 miles of trails through 100 acres of beautiful woodlands, where a variety of flowers and wildlife await your discovery. Watch the forest come alive as you wander past spring-fed streams and over the 115-foot suspension bridge. Catch a glimpse of frogs, insects, and even deer that scurry away as you pass by.

While you’re there, stop by the Wofford House Museum and experience life in early Henderson County. Erected in 1850, the home was relocated to the arboretum and is an example of the early pioneer days in Texas, complete with period furnishings, historical memorabilia, and a garden.

Next, head over to the Discovery Barn. It was built around 1890 and is well-equipped with antique farming implements and a series of old photographs that depict the typical life on an East Texas turn-of-the-century farm.

 

Go Wild at an Amusement Center

The best adventure for kids in Seven Points is without a doubt Whatz-Up Family Fun Park. This amusement center has it all with go-karts, bumper cars, miniature golf, a rock-climbing wall, laser tag, arcade, pool tables, batting cages, and over 60 acres dedicated to paintball fun.

Get an unlimited activity pass for just $20. Stop by on Mondays from 4 p.m. to 8 p.m. and get unlimited access to the go-karts for just five bucks. Sign up for year-round paintball events, or come during an open session when reservations aren’t required.

 

Visit Your State Park

You’ll find plenty of family-friendly activities at Purtis Creek State Park in Eustace. Hike, bike, camp, geocache, and picnic alongside this 355-acre lake. It’s a prime bass fishing destination and features catch-and-release largemouth bass as well as catfish and crappie. Bring your own boat, or rent a kayak or paddleboard.

Active families will want to explore the 4-mile Wolfpen Hike and Bike Trail or load up the stroller and ramble nearly 2 miles down the Beaver Slide path. Even kids with training wheels will enjoy peddling down the short, easy Solar Trail along the dam. Why not stay a while and enjoy everything this park has to offer? Parents can choose from 59 different campsites with water and electricity, five dry tent camping sites, or more than a dozen primitive hike-in spots.

 

Stop By the Zoo

Visit the Gentle Zoo in Forney and discover your soft side. It’s home to a sulcata tortoise, llama, kangaroo, and more. It’s the perfect place for tiny tots to spend a fun-filled day with a playground, picnic area, train ride, maze, and giant jumping pillow. Visit the park for awesome seasonal events like the Pumpkin Patch.

Use this list of family-friendly activities near Mabank to have some fun with the kiddos. Which destination will you visit first?

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