Jefferson, Texas

A bustling riverport in its heyday, much of Jefferson’s glamorous past is preserved for today’s heritage tourist. Imagine railroad tycoon Jay Gould entertaining friends aboard his elegantly appointed 1888 private railroad car called “The Atalanta.” The coach, which is open for tours, was restored after serving as a family’s home during the Explore Jefferson by carriage. 1930s oil boom. Visitors can tour or spend a night at the historic 1852 Excelsior House Hotel, one of Jefferson’s elegant bed-and-breakfasts. The Excelsior also stands out as one of Texas’ oldest continuously operating hotels. Nearby, the Jefferson Historical Museum occupies an 1888 federal building and features local memorabilia. At the intersection of Lafayette and Market streets is the bronze Sterne fountain, graced by a statue of the goddess Hebe who pours water in three levels—for horses, people, and dogs. More than 60 bed-and-breakfast accommodations are offered in historic buildings. You can also explore several antique shops.