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Beat the Heat

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Fluger's

Fluger's

Roller Skating

REO Starplex is a hidden gem in Longview. Located on 4716 W Loop 281, the building hosts a roller-skating rink and arcade on one side and an event center, and a bar and grill on the other. It has the classic aesthetic of a roller rink, with the added element of the other side of the building being used as both a restaurant and event center. One of the features of the property is the REO Pam Isle Bar and Grill which features Karaoke and various other entertainment from Wednesday-Saturday. Throughout the year, there will be several concerts, musicians, theme nights, etc. on the one side of the building. The roller-skating rink in the building has several promotions including birthday parties, different events, special promotional nights and more. The rink is closed on Monday’s but, Tuesday-Thursday there are $5 skate times and Friday-Sunday prices range from $8-10.

4716 W LOOP 281, LONGVIEW, TEXAS

Bowling

One way to escape the heat while also providing entertainment and competition is the classic game of bowling. Families of all ages, friends, or strangers can play this game together and have a great time hanging out, seeing who can knock down the most pins, and enjoying the nostalgia of a bowling ally.

Oil Bowl in Longview has 32-lanes and prides itself on catering to families, groups, and friends. They offer both recreational bowling 7 days a week and also opportunities to join their bowling leagues every day except Friday. Bowling is not the only option in this facility.

Thursday-Saturday and Monday nights, the Rustic Axe is open where you can go throw axes or have a competition with the programmed games. Grab the kids or a group of friends and head to Oil Bowl at 1102 Cotton Street for fun, competitive activities for all ages. Check out their Facebook page and website for more information on their different offerings.

Kilgore also has its own bowling alley called Kilgore Bowling Center. This facility is open Tuesday-Sunday with varying operation times. Like Oil Bowl, they offer family entertainment, league bowling, birthday parties, groups, and more. They have 16 lanes and encourage patrons to enjoy their snack bar, game room, and pro shop during their time there. Located at 2004 Henderson Blvd, Kilgore Bowling Center is another great option for this classic activity.

Nip it Golf

Just off loop 281, you’ll find the perfect place for entertainment for a rainy day, or just to experience playing golf indoors. The vision of Nip It Golf is to “create a destination that satisfy both a passion for golf and fill the entertainment void in East Texas.” This place is great for all skill levels and is perfect for those wanting to experience playing golf in a unique way. They have 5 golf simulators that you can choose different courses, levels, and games on. While you play, there are food and beverages available for purchase, large TVs displaying sports, and areas for socializing. Nip it Golf offers several options to enjoy their services. There are tee times available to reserve online as well as party packages to rent out a bay or the whole facility. Nip It Golf is open 11-9 Tuesday-Friday with longer hours on Saturday. You can find Nip it Golf at 414 W Loop 281 suite 8, Longview, TX 75605.

414 W. LOOP 281 STE. 8, LONGVIEW, TEXAS

Longview World of Wonders

In the middle of Downtown Longview is the World of Wonders handson discovery center where kids can come explore and learn more. Their goal is to give children the opportunity to imagine, create, and explore in a hands-on educational environment. They have several programs year-round that are for different ages and demographics. Longview WOW is a great place to bring children that is educational, encouraging, and entertaining. They are open Thursday-Sunday and have different prices and discounts for admission.

112 E TYLER ST, LONGVIEW, TEXAS

Longview Museum of Fine Arts

“We believe the citizens of Longview and East Texas deserve an innovative, beautiful, and culturally significant museum. Lives will be enriched, minds will be enlightened, and Longview will become well-known as a city that fosters beauty, creativity, and the arts,” LMFAs statement. The LMFA is a perfect summer outing that is fun, educational, and unique. With nearly 1,000 works of art, the museum has both culturally and historically relevant pieces. They feature pieces from East Texas as well as across the country. During the summer, they offer Summer art classes from June 5-July 28, 2023. If you’re wanting to just experience the exhibits and works, they are open Tuesday-Friday 10 a.m. – 4 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m – 2 p.m. You can see all the wonderful works of art Downtown Longview at 215 E. Tyler St. Children under 12 have free admission and adults pay $5.

215 E. TYLER STREET, LONGVIEW, TEXAS

Gregg County Historical Museum

Another museum worth visiting is the Gregg County Historical Museum. They have several exhibits that stay throughout the year, along with events that celebrate several East Texas traditions and history. The museum invites visitors of all ages and backgrounds to come and learn about Longview and Gregg County’s rich history. Going along with the museum, in front of the building once a year is Longview’s Dalton Days. This is a historical reenactment of a bank robbery in Longview years ago. Not only is there the reenactment, there is also live music, food, and vendors for the whole family to enjoy. The building itself is full of history, the museum opened in 1984, but it was originally a Citizen’s National Bank in 1910. It is one of Gregg County’s oldest buildings located at 214 N. Fredonia St. Longview TX.

214 N. FREDONIA ST., LONGVIEW, TEXAS

Longview Public Library

The Longview Public Library is a great spot to spend a few hours that is both fun and educational. In addition to the traditional library offerings, there are several events and programs put on in the summer. The Summer Reading Club was put in place in order to keep students’ reading skills sharp throughout the summer break. They have entertaining activities that keep students engaged and educated including reading challenges and daily events. There are goals and prizes throughout the summer for children! To kick off the summer program, the Library will host a party with lots of activities, games, and fun! Stay updated with the Library’s Facebook page to see all their events and offerings this summer and also throughout the year! The two branches of the library are located at 222 W. Cotton St. and 801 S. MLK Jr. Blvd. in Longview.

222 W. COTTON ST. | 801 S. MLK JR. BLVD.

Books and Barrels

Another reading option for this Summer is visiting Books and Barrels Downtown Longview on Center St. Not only do they have books for all ages, reading levels, and interests, they also have an in-house beer and wine bar to enjoy while you shop or sit and read a book. Throughout the month, Books and Barrels has several events lined up to keep customers entertained and coming back. For example, there are a couple of children’s story times, an arts and crafts night, poetry night, and even once a month there is an open mic night. Their social media is constantly updated with more specials, events, and updates so make sure you check it out before you go relax at the store!

206 N. CENTER ST., LONGVIEW, TEXAS

Ice Cream & Frozen Treats

Wild Honey Creamery

What started as two moms selling ice cream that source the best ingredients from East Texas from a pushcart is now a two-location ice cream shop. Wild Honey Creamery has a location in Downtown Longview at 208 E Tyler St. along with another on Loop 281. Their creamy ice cream has all of your favorite classic flavors along with unique seasonal offerings. One of the most unique features about Wild Honey is their ability to create flavors with East Texas ingredients. For example, one of their staple flavors is the Silver Grizzly Iced Latte which has coffee from their downtown neighbor. Along with their stores, Wild Honey also offers catering services and take-home packages for their customers convenience. To keep up with their special events and promotions, take a look at their Facebook or Instagram pages.

108 E TYLER ST & 405 W LOOP 281

Shivers Natural Snow

You might recognize Shivers by their silver food truck along 259. They strive to create a family-friendly atmosphere where you can go to relax and enjoy shaved ice that is handcrafted with fresh fruit and natural ingredients. They play old music to encourage people to hang out and get away from the business of life. Shivers offers seasonal menus. The Summer Snow is available from MarchAugust, Fall Snow which features flavors like The Great Pumpkin, peppermint, etc. is served from September-October, and during the Holiday season Shivers switches it up a bit. In the colder months (November-January) they have Holiday drinks like Frozen hot chocolate, The Yule, Sally’s Sister, etc. The shop is open MondaySaturday 2-9 p.m. and updates are pushed through their Instagram @shiversnatural snow. Hang out and enjoy shaved ice at 5651 US259, Longview, TX.

5651 US-259, LONGVIEW, TEXAS

Diddy’s Frozen Yogurt Shoppe

Conveniently located in the corner of Papacita’s village surrounded by shopping and dining options. Diddy’s Frozen Yogurt is in the perfect location to stop by after a night on the town. This froyo shop offers a wide variety of flavors and fresh toppings. The vibrant colors and decorations create a fun environment for both kids and adults. With outdoor and indoor seating, this destination is perfect for any weather or occasion. Their Facebook provides both inspiration for your next cup of frozen yogurt and also keeps customers updated on specials and promotions going on seasonally. Stop by Diddy’s Frozen Yogurt Shoppe for a unique and personalized dessert.

305 W LOOP 281 #108, LONGVIEW, TEXAS

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