Things to Do

in Huntsville Near Sam Houston for Students Close to Campus

Ever wondered what it is like to live in Huntsville, TX? While you may spend most of your time in class or studying, there is tons around to explore in this area we call home! Whether you’re from the area or a Bearkat newcomer, you’ll find something to love within steps of The Armory at Sam Houston. Explore our town’s best and brightest local attractions, starting with these six things to do, see, and eat.

Historic Downtown

If you’re looking to unearth one-of-a-kind treasures or for some delicious food, look no further than downtown Huntsville. With an abundance of antique and boutique stores, as well as restaurants and coffee shops, there’s plenty to see, do, and taste here. Downtown Huntsville also hosts some of the biggest annual events in town, including Wine Down Shop Small and the Christmas Fair.

Huntsville State Park

Hike among the towering pine trees of East Texas, try your luck at snagging a bass or a catfish, and paddle on the tranquil waters of Lake Raven. These are the adventures that await in Huntsville State Park, sprawling outdoor oasis with miles of trails and some of the best birding and wildlife watching around.

The Blue Lagoon

Scuba diving … in Huntsville?! That’s exactly what you can do at The Blue Lagoon, a Professional Association of Diving Instructors-certified facility that offers scuba lessons and more. If you’re not looking to dive to The Blue Lagoon’s crystalline depths, you can swim on its surface and admire the view of the surrounding pine trees.

Old Town Theatre

The Old Town Theatre is a historic venue that hosts a range of concerts, plays, and events. You’ll get to enjoy live entertainment while surrounded by the venue’s beautiful architecture and vintage decor.

Giant Boot & Hat House

Phoenix Commotion is an organization that shows how you can make an amazing house out of recycled materials. As part of a display of their amazing abilities, they created a cowboy hat and boot house that are quite a sight to see when visiting Huntsville.

Sam Houston Statue

The statue “A Tribute to Courage” is called Big Sam by locals. Big is an understatement. The statue, made with 30 tons of concrete and steel, stands 67 feet tall. The oversized statue, the ninth tallest in the U.S., is a fitting tribute to the man who figured prominently in Texas’ history.