7 Great Family Things To Do in Lufkin, TX

Looking for things to do in Lufkin, TX? As a proud local business serving Lufkin and the surrounding communities, M & M Roofing is more than just a roofing company—we’re your neighbors. When we’re not helping local families protect their homes, we love exploring everything Lufkin has to offer.

Lufkin is nestled in the heart of East Texas and offers an abundance of activities and attractions that create lasting memories. From unique museums to outdoor adventures, Lufkin is truly a hidden gem for families.

This family-friendly destination offers a perfect blend of:

• ✅ Education
• ✅ Adventure
• ✅ Entertainment

Read on to discover our top family-friendly things to do in Lufkin—directly from a trusted local!

7 Family Friendly Things to Do in Lufkin TX

Lufkin is packed with fun, family-friendly attractions that combine small-town hospitality with East Texas adventure. Whether you’re looking for outdoor activities, local history, or hands-on experiences for kids, these seven spots showcase the very best of what Lufkin has to offer. Each destination is easily accessible, affordable, and offers something unique to make your visit memorable.

1. 🦒 Discover Wildlife at the Ellen Trout Zoo

📍Location: 402 Zoo Circle, Lufkin, TX 75904
📅 Open: Tuesday–Sunday, 9 AM–5 PM | Closed Mondays
🎟️ Admission: Adults $7, Kids $4, under 4 free

Kick off your Lufkin adventure with a visit to the Ellen Trout Zoo. This local gem is home to over 700 animals from more than 120 species. Whether your little ones are enchanted by towering giraffes or you’re fascinated by the exotic reptiles, the zoo offers a diverse range of exhibits that make it the perfect day outing.

What to Expect at the Ellen Trout Zoo

• 🚂 Ride the Zoo Train for a scenic loop around the grounds.
• 🌱 Learn about conservation efforts to protect endangered species.
• 🧺 Enjoy picnic spots surrounded by lush greenery.

The Ellen Trout Zoo prides itself on providing a fun and accessible wildlife experience for families, and it’s a perfect introduction to Lufkin’s unique charm.

📝 Local Tip: Visit early in the morning when the animals are most active!

2. 🏛️ Experience East Texas History at the Texas Forestry Museum

📍 Location: 1905 Atkinson Dr, Lufkin, TX 75901
📅 Open: Monday–Saturday, 10 AM–5 PM | Closed Sundays
🎟️ Admission: Free

Lufkin’s lush, green landscape is a testament to East Texas’s thriving forestry history. Head to the Texas Forestry Museum, where your family can immerse themselves in fascinating exhibits that highlight the region’s timber industry.

Highlights of the Texas Forestry Museum

• Interactive Exhibits: Explore tools, machinery, and artifacts that tell the story of forestry in Lufkin.
• Outdoor Fun: Take a stroll on the museum’s woodland trails, perfect for nature-loving families.
• Kid-Friendly Activities: The children’s play area and hands-on activities ensure kids stay engaged while learning.

This museum blends education with entertainment, making it a great way to teach kids about the vital role trees and forestry play in our environment.

📝 Local Tip: Check the events calendar for free community family days!

3. 🎭 Enjoy Live Entertainment at The Pines Theater

📍 Location: 113 S 1st St, Lufkin, TX 75901
🎭 Open: during scheduled performances and events

Step back in time with a visit to The Pines Theater, a historic venue in downtown Lufkin. Renovated and beautifully maintained, this theater offers a roster of family-friendly events throughout the year, from live concerts to classic movie nights.

Why Families Love The Pines Theater

• Family-Friendly Shows: Keep an eye out for seasonal performances and community events suitable for all ages.
• Vintage Ambiance: The preserved 1920s architecture creates a warm sense of nostalgia.
• Convenient Location: Situated near local eateries, families can enjoy a meal before or after the show.

The Pines Theater is more than just a venue; it’s a cultural hub that brings the community together through arts and entertainment.

4. ⛺️ Explore Nature at Ratcliff Lake

📍 Location: 18551 TX-7, Kennard, TX 75847 (30 min from Lufkin)
📅 Open: daily, year-round – Day Use Fee: $5 per car

Need a break from the hustle and bustle? Head out to Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area, a serene escape nestled within the Davy Crockett National Forest. This picturesque destination is perfect for a family day spent outdoors.

Top Activities at Ratcliff Lake

• Swimming: Cool off in the calm, clear lake waters that are ideal for families.
• Picnicking: Designated picnic areas with tables and grills make it easy to bring along lunch.
• Hiking Trails: Discover scenic trails winding through the forest, abundant with wildlife and lush greenery.
• Camping: For families who love adventure, stay overnight at one of the park’s well-equipped campsites.

Ratcliff Lake is a tranquil spot where you can bond with your family while enjoying nature at its finest.

5. 🐐 Meet Adorable Animals at Pawsitive Animal Encounters

📍Location: 198 Happy Trails Ln, Lufkin, TX 75904
📅 Open: Saturday & Sunday, 10 AM–4 PM | Weekdays by appointment
🎟️ Admission: $8 per person

Animal lovers, rejoice! Pawsitive Animal Encounters offers a unique opportunity for families to interact with some of the friendliest animals you’ll ever meet. A visit here is sure to bring out the animal enthusiast in every family member.

What Your Family Can Expect

• Close Animal Interactions: From cuddling baby goats to feeding llamas, it’s a hands-on experience designed to delight kids and adults alike.
• Photo Opportunities: Capture adorable moments as your little ones engage with these lovable creatures.
• Small-Scale Atmosphere: The intimate setting ensures everyone gets enough time to enjoy the experience.

Pawsitive Animal Encounters is the perfect destination for families looking to make lasting memories with a unique twist.

6. 🎨 Discover the Downtown Lufkin Art Scene

📍 Location: 113 N First Street, Lufkin, TX 75901

Downtown Lufkin is vibrant with artistic murals, creative sculptures, and seasonal festivals.

Art Scene Highlights:

• 🖼️ Outdoor murals perfect for Instagram photos.
• 🎨 Art in the Park festival in the spring.
• 🏛️ Angelina Arts Alliance performances nearby.

📝 Local Tip: Stop by Standpipe Coffee House for locally roasted coffee before exploring!

7. 📚 Wind Down at Kurth Memorial Library

📍 Location: 706 S Raguet St, Lufkin, TX 75904
📅 Open: Monday–Saturday | Hours vary by day

Kurth Memorial Library offers more than just books—it’s a local hub for family-friendly learning.

Why Families Love It:

• 📖 Storytime sessions and reading programs.
• 🧩 Free educational games and activities.
• 💻 Tech access with free Wi-Fi.

📝 Local Tip: Grab a library events calendar for free weekend activities.

🌟 Local Insider Tips for an Unforgettable Family Trip to Lufkin

✅ Plan Around Lufkin’s Seasonal Events

Lufkin hosts family-friendly festivals year-round that are local favorites:

• 🎉 Neches River Rendezvous (June) – Guided canoe/kayak trip on the Angelina and Neches Rivers.
• 🎄 Christmas in the Pines (December) – Downtown transforms into a holiday wonderland with parades, lights, and markets.
• 🎡 Angelina County Fair (Spring) – Enjoy livestock shows, crafts, and local food vendors.

✅ Explore Nearby Outdoor Escapes

Make the most of East Texas nature:

• 🏞️ Mission Tejas State Park (45 min drive): Hiking, picnic spots, and a reconstructed 17th-century Spanish mission.
• 🚤 Lake Sam Rayburn (30 min drive): The largest lake in Texas for boating, fishing, and lakeside beaches.

✅ Family-Favorite Local Dining Spots

Get a true taste of Lufkin with these locally loved restaurants:

• 🍔 Standpipe Coffee House – Famous for coffee, breakfast, and downtown ambiance.
• 🍽️ Mom’s Diner – Classic comfort food at affordable prices.
• 🍖 Hickory Smokehouse – Slow-smoked East Texas BBQ, perfect for families.

✅ Rainy Day Options for Kids

Don’t let weather ruin your plans:

• 🎥 Cinemark Lufkin 12 – Affordable matinees and reclining seats.
• 📚 Kurth Memorial Library – Storytime, educational play areas, and seasonal reading challenges.
• 🖥️ Naranjo Museum of Natural History – Dinosaur fossils and engaging science exhibits.

✅ Downloadable Walking Tour Maps

Maximize your downtown experience with free resources from the Lufkin Visitor Center:

• 🏛️ Historic Walking Tour – Learn about Lufkin’s architecture and history.
• 🎨 Lufkin Downtown Mural Walk – Self-guided art tour.

From Your Local Roofing Team at M&M Roofing

At M & M Roofing, we’re honored to be a trusted part of this amazing community. From Lufkin’s vibrant downtown to the wildlife at the Ellen Trout Zoo, we’re inspired by everything this city represents. We’re more than just a local business—we’re your neighbors. We’re committed to giving back, supporting local events, and working together to make Lufkin an even better place to live.

If you’re looking for a team that cares about this community as much as you do, reach out to us anytime. Let’s keep building a stronger Lufkin, together!

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