Local Living: Where to Shop, Dine and Explore in Tyler, TX
Tyler is a place defined by its natural beauty and big, small-town feel where there’s plenty to do that makes life sweet for residents, especially when it comes to unique local businesses and organizations. Here are some places to go when you’re looking for:
In This Article
Groceries
FRESH by Brookshire’s is pleasant, upscale grocery shopping like you’ve never experienced before. Part food shopping, part dining and part live entertainment, this 55,000-square-foot community hub is a true destination. From fresh produce to a robust floral department to a grill, pizza oven, gelato counter and fresh taqueria on-site, this is a one-stop shop for everything you need, and then some.
Family Fun
When it comes to family-friendly activities, you can’t beat the Caldwell Zoo. Spanning 85 acres, the zoo is home to over 3,000 animals encompassing about 250 species. It’s divided into three primary regions: African Safari, North American Wilds and Amazon River’s Edge. There are opportunities for animal encounters, like feeding the giraffes, as well as a petting zoo for the goats and sheep.
Coffee
Located in a former church building, The Foundry Coffee House is providing a new kind of soulful experience (for coffee lovers, at least). It’s a go-to spot not just for its ethically sourced roasts (and bottomless cup of drip coffee deal), but also for its mission, which is to create a place where coffee and community go hand in hand.
Plants
Dory’s Gardens and Boutique is the go-to spot for all things plants and gardening. It’s simultaneously a garden center, retail shop and community garden, infused with whimsy everywhere you turn. With musical fountains, yard art and a decorated chicken coop with literal “huggable” chickens, Dory’s is a place you can go to shop, relax or craft (monthly workshops are always on offer).
Shopping
If you’re looking for a cute and classy retail establishment, Apricot Lane Boutique fits the bill. Offering a mix of casual wear and dressier options – plus matching accessories, of course – the store’s inventory is meticulously curated to reflect local style. This Apricot Lane location is independently owned and provides a friendly, personalized shopping experience.
Barbecue
Stanley’s Famous Pit Barbecue is “mom and pop” barbecue at its finest. This hot spot, which has been in business since 1960, has perfected the art of East Texas-style barbecue and slow-cooking meats to perfection – smoked with pecan and post oak in traditional offset pits. You really can’t go wrong with anything on the menu here, and chances are, you’ll be back for seconds.
Craft Beer
Founded in 2011, True Vine Brewing Co. was the first-ever craft brewery in Tyler. Since then, it has made a name for itself and even expanded to a second taproom in downtown Tyler. Besides its award-winning beers, which are brewed in-house, this is a place people go for the welcoming atmosphere and community events, including live music, Trivia Thursdays and more.
Get to Know Tyler
Want to learn more about living and working in Tyler, TX? Check out the latest edition of Livability Tyler, Texas.