How to Live Like a Local in Tyler, TX

Tyler / Nathan Lambrecht

Looking for great places to visit in Tyler, Texas? Who better to ask than a local resident who recently discovered all the great things this town has to offer. Alyssah Massingill hails from San Antonio but relocated to Tyler two years ago as part of her husband’s medical residency. The change in locations has been significant. 

“We have loved Tyler, and it’s a great place to raise a growing family,” says Massingill, who is the mom of a 1-year-old. “Tyler is so friendly; I think I meet someone new whenever I’m out and about.” 

Read on for more about what this recent arrival loves about Tyler. 

Is there a hidden gem of a coffee shop that you love? 
I would say The Coco Bean (on Crosswater Avenue). I love ordering coffee, sitting on their patio beside the Legacy Trail and watching the people pass by.

We love it because of the natural scenery, and it’s nice to see how family friendly the area is. Now, I take my little one out there so he can get some fresh air while I get coffee. It’s very relaxing. 

Where do you go to see live music or entertainment? 
I like to go to True Vine Brewing Co.’s original location (on Earl Campbell Parkway in West Tyler). It’s a great place to meet with friends or take the family for pizza and live music. The vibe is friendly and welcoming, and the space is open, so you’re not overcrowded. It’s a great place to kick back and take it easy. 

Are there great places to visit in Tyler on a rainy afternoon? 
Good Vibes Nutrition is a great place to wait out a storm. They have shelves filled with local vendors ranging from clothing to candles, sweet treats, accessories and food seasonings. It’s a casual, cozy place with lounge chairs and couches. They serve cafe food and have a little bit of everything. For a cold, rainy afternoon, I get some of their broccoli cheese soup with crackers, and it is honestly some of the best I’ve had in a long time. 

Are there any dog-friendly hiking trails or parks? 
Yes, Tyler State Park. It is so beautiful year-round, especially in the fall because the leaves start to change, and you can see all the different colors while exploring the park. The dogs love it because there is plenty of space to run around, and the weather is perfect that time of year. The Rose Rudman Trail is also peaceful and easy to walk with the dogs. 

What’s a lesser-known spot you think deserves more attention? 
Being a new mom and a dog mom of two large fur babies, I recently discovered Bonejour Jax. It’s a recently opened pet boutique with everything you could think of for fur babies: clothing, accessories, leashes and organic food. I like to take my dogs in and have them select a treat. Their favorite is the custom-decorated cookie treats. 

Is there a unique local tradition or event that visitors should know about? 
Mistletoe and Magic, presented by the Junior League of Tyler, is a holiday event filled with Christmas magic, vendors and events like pancakes with Santa and different performers playing. I saw custom woodworking, homemade salsas and Christmas treats you rarely see in your local grocery store.