Hello! I’m Ashley, the new Discover Denison Visitor Center Welcome Representative (super long title, I know 😅)! I am very new to Denison and let me tell you – this town is the cutest little hidden gem. I didn’t expect to fall for it so fast, but here we are. The last few months have been all about finding my new go-to spots, meeting some truly wonderful people, and basically Discovering Denison every second I can.
If you’re new here too, visiting for the weekend, or just in need of a little inspo, here are some of the things I’ve done so far and totally recommend.
1. Music on Main in Downtown Denison
Denison’s Music on Main is the place to be on a summer Friday night. It’s free, family-friendly, and an all-around good time. Music starts at 7:30 PM, but I recommend coming early to grab a spot – think lawn chairs, blankets, and maybe a little picnic action from one of the nearby restaurants.
🔥 Hot tip: Denison is a certified Music Friendly Community, which basically means there’s live music happening all over town. Check out local bars and restaurants for more tunes all weekend long.
2. Experience Denison’s History at the Red River Railroad Museum
Denison’s beginning – way back in 1872 – is in great part thanks to the Missouri Kansas Texas Railroad, commonly known as the Katy. The museum has curated and showcased some amazing artifacts including Katy Railroad employee photographs, original dining car China, and a freewheel which was used to put out train fires. The volunteers here are a wealth of knowledge, and if you aren’t passionate about trains going in, you definitely will be on the way out.
🚂 Head over the Katy Depot for a little more train action. Once a bustling hub for the railways, the depot has since been converted to shopping, dinging, and loft spaces. A short walk to the east of the depot you can get an up-close view of a decommissioned Katy train.
3. Sweet Treats at Aloha Shaved Ice
Let’s be real – no summer is complete without a snow cone. And Aloha Shaved Ice is the cutest little spot for a refreshing treat when the Texas heat hits. Grab your favorite fruity flavor (or mix a few if you’re feelin’ wild) and snap a pic because it’s just that aesthetic.
4. Fishing Adventures at Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma = an angler’s paradise. With over 74,000 acres of water, this massive lake straddles the Texas-Oklahoma border and is perfect for catching bass, crappie, catfish—you name it. And fun fact: you only need a Lake Texoma fishing license to fish the whole thing, no matter which side you’re on!
🎣 Want to level up your lake day? Book a guided trip or grab a lakeside cabin at Grandpappy Point Resort & Marina and make it a weekend getaway.
5. Visit Us at the Discover Denison Visitor Center
Don’t forget to stop by the Visitor Center while you’re in town! Pick up a Denison souvenir, a local pamphlet, or just stop in and say hey. The Discover Denison team – including me – are always up for a good chat and love sharing our local recommendations. I may be biased, but this is definitely a must stop on my list. 😉
There you have it! Five things to do, see, and eat this July in Denison. So, if you’re new in town, a long time local, or just here for the weekend – Denison has you covered. From live music and local eats to history tours and getting outdoors, this little city knows how to do summer right!
See you soon!
– Ashley
