10 Most Fun & Amazing Things To Do In Temple, Texas

1. Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

Wondering what to do in Temple, TX? Pay a visit to Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum. The city of Temple has a storied history tied to the rails, and owes its existence in part to the Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railroad company which founded it in 1881. The Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum brings that point home beginning with its main building, the Santa Fe Depot which was first built in 1911 and was previously in service until the early 1990’s. Visitors here will be able to tap into this history through an extensive research library which includes a variety of mechanical drawings, photographs as well as 500 books on the field. There’s also different exhibits shown throughout the year. And the museum’s surrounding land is home to vintage locomotives and associated equipment.

Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

Address: 315 W Avenue B, Temple, TX 76501

Website: Temple Railroad & Heritage Museum

2. Friar’s Creek Trail

Being in Central Texas means that there’s quite a bit of land to explore, and Temple is no exception with a unique network of natural trails. One of the most prominent of these is the Friar’s Creek Trail which is composed of two segments totalling a little over two miles. The trails take you through vibrant fields, and you’re able to also bring bicycles if you prefer to engage in a tranquil ride as you take a look at the various flowers that can be found along the way.

Friar’s Creek Trail

Address: 5000 S. 5th St., Temple, Texas

Website: Friar’s Creek Trail

3. Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Texas is definitely a state that owes its spirit to many diverse groups who made their way here in its early days, one of them being immigrants from the Czech Republic who came to the state to forge a new life for themselves from the 1850’s to the early 1900’s. The Czech Heritage Museum is nestled between the city’s business district and the district for historical homes. The museum opened in 2000 and its building dates back to 1931 with a storefront exterior decked out in mosaic tile. Inside, there’s a hefty collection of artifacts, documents and photos that cover the scope of Czech life in Texas as well as across the nation. In addition, the museum is host to different events such as language seminars and craft classes that draw from Czech culture.

Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center

Address: 119 W French Ave, Temple, TX 76501

Website: Czech Heritage Museum & Genealogy Center

4. The Wilson House

Temple does boast a varied art scene, and one key example of that is the Wilson House. It takes its name from the founder of the Wilsonart company, Ralph Wilson Sr. and his wife, Sunny. The ranch style home captures the essence of the 1950’s when it was built, with odes to the prevailing architecture of that time. But the key component? Plastic laminate which was and still is the core product of the company. It’s featured throughout the home in different ways from lamps to counter tops and even chairs. The Wilson House has attained national landmark status, and is not only available to the public for viewing but also hosts events arranged in advance.

The Wilson House

Address: 1714 S 61st St, Temple, TX 76504

Website: The Wilson House

5. Lions Junction Family Water Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

If you’re looking for things to do in Temple this weekend, then this attraction might be the perfect option for you. Just at the entrance of the Friar’s Creek Trail sits the Lions Junction Family Water Park. The park is open mainly on the weekends, and hosts a deep water pool and diving board along with 2 water slides that are three stories in height. There’s also two other pools on the premises, and a special one for children that incorporates a railroad theme. An outstanding element of the part is the Lazy River, where patrons can float along its 200 foot length and enjoy the sunshine. If you’re looking for a bit more rigorous activity, the park even has a rock climbing wall. And if you’re looking for a rest, they have a cottage devoted to serving up snacks and meals on site.

Lions Junction Family Water Park

Address: 5000 S. 5th St., Temple, Texas

Website: Lions Junction Family Water Park

6. Bell County Museum

If you’re looking for things to do near Temple, then a visit to Bell County Museum might interest you. It is an establishment dedicated to giving the public a full view of how life was in the region including Temple dating back to the early years of the country. There are a set number of permanent exhibits at the museum which include the Chisholm Trail Monument, a towering structure that conveys the pioneer days as Texas moved from territory to being a state and a fully restored log cabin dating back to the 1850’s. The museum also has events such as guided archaeological digs. It is located a short drive away from Temple in the town of Belton.

Bell County Museum

Address: 201 N Main St, Belton, TX 76513

Website: Bell County Museum

7. Temple Symphony Orchestra

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

The Temple Symphony Orchestra has been a vital part of the cultural landscape in Central Texas for 24 years. They have a yearly schedule of concerts that have drawn ardent fans to their primary venue which is at the Mary Alice Marshall Performing Arts Center. The orchestra features up to 90 professional musicians and even has an accompanying string quartet that performs concerts for musical education outreach at the different schools in Central Texas.

Temple Symphony Orchestra

Address: 2600 South 1st St.,Temple. TX 76504

Website: Temple Symphony Orchestra

8. Pepper Creek Trail

Perfect for strollers, hikers, and cyclists, this trail provides a paved path along Pepper Creek. Its highlights include pedestrian bridges and unique water features. It has a stunning hidden waterfall that is part of the creek and runs all year-round. This place is good for picnics as several stone tables are available and allow you to dine with an astonishing view. Loved by both locals and tourists, this spot is perfect to get some fresh air, meditate, relax and just feel like being close to nature. So when in Texas, make sure to visit this scenic and iconic pathway and feel the serenity while even staying in a city.

Pepper Creek Trail

Address: Temple, TX 76502, USA

Website: Pepper Creek Trail

9. Temple Lions Junction Family Water Park

Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account

Splash some fun on your Texas trip by spending a day at this waterpark. Whether you’re traveling with your family or friends, this place can guarantee you lots of fun as it has something to offer everyone. Whether you may be swimming in the pool, floating on the lazy river or, going down the water slides, you will certainly get wet and be filled with laughter. Offering state-of-the-art facilities with attentive lifeguards and staff that keep the waterpark organized, the safety of this place is assured. So come for a refreshing escapade and take the plunge in this waterpark to add it to your fun-filled travel memories in Texas.

Temple Lions Junction Family Water Park

Address: 5000 S 5th St, Temple, TX 76502, United States

Website: Temple Lions Junction Family Water Park

Price: From 3 USD

10. Whistle Stop Park

Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing

In keeping with the railroad history of Temple, there is a lovely railway-themed park in the city that your kids will love to explore. Let your kids run around and play to their heart’s content on the various swings, slides, rope bridges, climbing walls, and more. The park is also close to the train tracks and your children will surely love to watch the trains pass by. There are plenty of benches and shaded areas for parents to sit on or for families to enjoy a picnic.

Whistle Stop Park

Address: 58 S 11th St, Temple, TX 76501, United States

Opening hours: 8am - 8pm (daily)

Some more takeaways from the wildflower capital of Texas

Those who make their way to the town of Temple, Texas should gear themselves up for a wonderfully immersive experience. There is a great deal of history to observe here, from its railway beginnings to the cherished influences of key contributors to its local culture. Whether you’re looking for fun things to do in Temple or simply interested in sightseeing, these activities will help you truly connect to all of the bounties Temple has to offer.

Where to stay in Temple, Texas

Temple is a bustling little community that travelers enjoy getting lost in. It’s a great area to explore with Airport Road, Berger, and Hickory Road beaming with a ton to do and see.

Airport Road

Airport Road is a vibrant part of Temple, filled with many interesting activities and events like the annual Central Texas Airshow every May to go check out. This road may be frequented by passers-by but it’s actually also a family-friendly area with many museums and parks to check out. Townhouses, apartments, and small inns are popular in this part of Temple. For some delectable grub, Dynasty Chinese Restaurants boast mean orange chicken tourists would be surprised to enjoy!

Berger Road

This part of Tempe is quite secluded with many rural homes are found. Cabins, bungalows, and some apartels are common accommodations in Berger Road. Although it’s a busy road, a few interesting activities those visiting in groups would find a couple of spots can be found in Berger Road. These include Temple Airsoft for some action-adventure as well as Miller Park, those who enjoy getting a morning walk or jog in during their travels.

Hickory Road

Hickory Road is another area to consider when exploring the small town of Temple. It’s a suburban area with many houses, apartments, and townhouses available for accommodations. Lions Park is close by for those who just want to spend some time with nature. Families or big groups of people spending the long weekend will appreciate Hickory Road for its quiet and accessible location.