Unique Things to Do in Texarkana: Hidden Gems on Both Sides of the State Line

Quirky attractions and hidden gems often make the most memorable travel experiences. Texarkana offers plenty of unique places to explore on both sides of the state line, from unusual shops to unexpected local attractions. The best spots hide in plain sight, while others require a little extra research to discover. This guide highlights some of the most unique things to do in Texarkana and the surrounding area.

If you know a hidden gem that I missed and should be on the list, let me know!

Quick list: unique things to do in Texarkana.

• Stand in two states at once and take a photo on the state line
• See a show at the historic Perot Theatre
• Enjoy live music and drinks at a speakeasy (1923 Banana Club)
• Get coffee in a train car (Alley Cats Coffee Bar)
• Visit a house shaped like a card suite (Ace of Clubs House)
• Find gnome homes along a trail (Bringle Lake Park)
• See a huge art gallery with over 40 artists (1894 Gallery)

Stand in two states at once.

Did you know that the federal court house and post office on State Line Avenue is the most photographed federal building in the United States? It’s just one of the many unique things to do in Texarkana. There is a great photo op out front where you can stand in two states at once, with one foot in Arkansas and one foot in Texas. Each winter, the two cities place a Christmas tree directly on the state line to celebrate their shared community.

Unique places to shop in Texarkana.

Texarkana has several cool, quirky shops filled with nature-themed items and curiosities. I love browsing a unique, local shop and I’m sure that you will enjoy these too.

• Crystal Moon Metaphysical Shop – this newly renovated shop in downtown Texarkana specializes in crystals, metaphysical supplies, and unique gifts. Visit their Facebook page for the latest updates and event schedules. Sometimes they host yoga classes and sound baths.
• Olive St Vintiques – this well curated antique shop feels like walking into the room of requirement, or like going on a treasure hunt. I always find something that fits my “Dumbledore’s office/curiosity cabinet” home decor vibe. There are weekly live sales on their Facebook page too.
• 1894 Art Gallery – This art gallery is simply stunning. It’s housed in a restored and renovated, three story building in downtown Texarkana, Arkansas. Inside, you’ll find an eclectic mix of art, books, and gifts from over 75 artists, writers, and more. The second floor holds a 1970’s themed space that holds events throughout the year. The 1894 Gallery hosts artists for gallery openings, discussions, and more events throughout the year. One of our favorite things is the “downtown live” event that happens on the second Friday of each month. The entire building is open late those nights, along with other downtown businesses. This gallery is a must see stop in Texarkana, follow them on Facebook for updates about galleries and events.

Don’t miss the red phone booth photo op outside of the 1894 Art Gallery! The (non working) rotary phone is still inside.

Cool and unique restaurants in Texarkana.

Every city has a few restaurants and coffee shops that locals love. Texarkana has several unique spots that add personality to the local food scene, from cozy cafés to longtime favorites. These stops make great additions to any Texarkana itinerary.

Coffee Shops

• The Stained Page – forever and always one of my favorites. This coffee shop and used book store feels like you walked on the set of a Hallmark movie. They always have a gluten free and dairy free treat in their case too.
• Alley Cats Coffee Bar – probably the most unique place to eat in Texarkana, it’s located in a vintage railroad dining car! This spot is super fun and great for all ages.
• Roosters Coffee – this unique coffee shop in Texarkana is in a cute, yellow, tiny house. It reminds me of the drive thru coffee shops you see in the Pacific Northwest. They always have fun specials and a rotating, seasonal menu.
• Mana Brew – a gaming themed coffee shop on the southwest side of Texarkana.

Check out my full guide to the best coffee shops in Texarkana for more!

Restaurants

• Pop’s Place – truly a hidden gem, featuring amazing steaks and seafood. Once a month (the first Thursday) the Texarkana Jazz Orchestra plays a set. Trivia nights happen on Wednesdays.

Nighlife

• 1923 Banana Club – Did you know that there is a speakeasy in town?! The 1923 Banana Club one of the most unique things to do in Texarkana, and it’s in the basement of the 1894 Gallery Building. In true secret club fashion, you need to join the Facebook Group to get access to the door code. Be sure to follow the club rules or the big boss will kick you out. Interestingly, many of the features in the club were built using pieces salvaged from the restoration of the whole building. PS – you have to see the bar. the Banana Club has live music, comedy shows, and super fun theater performances that surround the audience. Follow their Facebook page for updates and don’t forget to join the group to get access to the private speakeasy.
• The Wild Hare – Texarkana’s most unique dive bar. They always have something going on. Check The Wild Hare Facebook page for events.
• El Frio Express – this is a great spot to grab frozen (adult) beverages. It’s constructed from an old bank with a drive up window and has cute photo ops. Check the El Frio Facebook page for hours, specials and updates.

Unique things to see outdoors in Texarkana.

Exploring the outdoors often reveals some of the most memorable places in Texarkana. Scenic trails, lakeside views, and interesting landmarks give visitors plenty of reasons to step outside and explore the city from a different perspective. Texarkana has some unique art installations around the city as well.

• Gnomington Forest at Bringle Lake East – One of the trails at Bringle Park (on the more narrow, single track bike trails) is home to Gnomington Forest. There are little painted doors along the first mile of the trail. Each door has it’s own theme and name and represents a little gnome who lives there. The gnome homes are a great way to keep kids excited to hike little farther. To access these gnome homes, take the trail behind the large sign with the map and stay to the right. The trail will split and walkers and hikers take the trail to the right. It won’t be long and you’ll see the first door.
• Pump track – located at Bringle Lake East.This pump track is an oval route that has jumps and ramps and is meant for bicycles. Scooters can work too. Remember, no motorized vehicles on the pump track. Read the park sign next to the track for more rules and tips and wear your helmet!
• Activated Alley – In an alley across from the Perot Theatre. You can walk this alleyway all the way over to the Arkansas side. My favorite art is a set of downspout pipes that remind me of Sesame Street characters
• See a champion Southern Magnolia tree – Have you ever heard of a champion tree? These incredible trees are biggest and best representatives of the species. The gorgeous tree is located at 46th Street and County Avenue and it’s marked with a plague out front.

Art outdoors around Texarkana.

• Artwall and Arts Park – a large green space, filled with local art and sculptures and a giant art wall. You’t miss it. The Art Wall changes seasonally. Art representing seasons or philanthropic causes are painted by local elementary students or summer art camp students. Make sure you follow the Texarkana Regional Arts and Humanities Council on Facebook to hear about those art camps.
• Art Tractor – located in front of the Regional History Museum downtown is an art tractor. This 1953 Super H Farmwall antique tractor is covered in bits and baubles that represent Arkansas on one side and Texas on the other. Created by artist Barbara Dybala, it was installed as part of the 2023 sequiscentennial celebrations in Texarkana.
• Downtown murals – across both sides of the city, in downtown Texarkana, there are murals representing the city’s history and culture.

The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce has put together a fun historical tour of Texarkana. Check out the historical Texarkana tour here.

Texarkana: unique things to do indoors.

Texarkana offers several unique indoor attractions that make great stops on any visit. From museums and historic theaters to quirky shops and local experiences, the city has plenty to explore when you want to spend time indoors. These spots offer a fun way to discover more of Texarkana’s character and creativity.

• MeepleCity Games – Did you know that Texarkana has it’s own game lounge?! MeepleCity Games in Texarkana, Texas is part board and card game store and part community gathering space for gaming! The offer a membership, game nights, gaming tournaments (like chess) and other meet ups. Go check them out and follow their Facebook page for more information.
• The Ace of Clubs House – The Ace of Clubs house was renovated recently, and reopened for tours in 2025. The story goes that the house was built in 1885 by Texarkana mayor James Draughon; whenhe won $10,000 in a game of poker. He decided to build the house in the shape of a club from the suit in a deck of cards. The resulting structure has 22 sides and looks like a club from a birds eye view. Once renovations are complete the historical house will once again be opened as a museum and event space. Check the updates on the Texarkana Museum Systems Facebook page.
• .Four States Auto Museum – Located in downtown Texarkana, Arkansas, this volunteer-run museum showcases classic cars from both domestic and international manufacturers. Visitors can also explore a collection of vintage signs that add to the nostalgic atmosphere. Each spring, the museum hosts a family-friendly car show that attracts visitors of all ages.Be sure to follow their Facebook page for events.

Unique art experiences indoors.

Texarkana’s arts scene offers several unique indoor experiences worth exploring. Local galleries and creative spaces feature exhibits, performances, and events that showcase the talent and culture of the region. To make your own art, check out these engaging spaces:

• The Crafty Nook – Crafts and a cafe all in one! Choose from a variety of craft projects make your purchase, then head to the crafting room to make a tea or coffee to enjoy while you create
• TRAHC Arts Makerspace – Unleash your creativity at this drop in art maker space. Great for all ages, with guided crafting options or the chance to just follow your heart. Memberships are also available.

Quirky spots nearby.

Cryptid enthusiasts, rejoice! The Bigfoot stories are strong in the ArkLaTex and you’ll find a few places to immerse yourself in the lore.

• Fouke Monster Mart (Fouke, AR) – the legend of the Boggy Creek Monster lives on here. Part gas station, part tourism hub, and part museum, it has photo ops and fun gifts
• Gasquatch (Idabel, OK) – A gas station devoted to Bigfoot, also featuring a cafe and a classic car museum

Unique events in Texarkana.

Texarkana, and the surrounding area’s, event calendar includes several quirky and memorable experiences. Outdoor movie nights, themed dinners, and unique festivals bring the community together and give visitors a chance to experience the city in a fun and unexpected way.

• Movies in the park: The Town that Dreaded Sundown – public movie showing – every October the Texarkana, Texas parks department puts on a series of movies in the park, culminating with a showing of the movie about the Phantom Killer of Texarkana. It’s usually as close to Halloween as possible, check the city Facebook page for schedule updates.
• Dinner with the phantom: dinner theatre – dinner theatre put on by the 1923 Banana Club, featuring a portrayal of the Texarkana Phantom Killer.
• Texarkana Pickle Fest – celebrating everything pickle related
• Fouke Monster Festival – Annual event to celebrate the Fouke Monster and raise funds to award scholarships to Fouke High School Seniors.

Texarkana has a way of surprising people who take the time to explore it. Quirky shops, unexpected museums, outdoor spots, and fun community events give visitors plenty of opportunities to discover something new. These unique things to do in Texarkana highlight the creativity and character that make this city special.

Looking for even more ideas? Check out my guides to things to do in Texarkana, hiking near Texarkana, and day trips around the ArkLaTex.