Jefferson

Texas is home to many old, sleepy towns, but Jefferson might be the most unique of them all. Nearly 100 historic structures can be found in this pre-Civil War community, which is tucked away in the eastern Piney Woods. The National Register of Historic Places has listed many of them. Jefferson is a quaint, pre-Civil War small town tucked away in the eastern part of the state and is arguably one of the best-kept secrets in Texas. Nearly 100 historical sites make up this hidden gem, which is encircled by the lush Piney Woods and many of which are also included on the National Register of Historic Places. The majority of the town's historic structures are residences, Victorian mansions that have been passed down through generations of local families.

You can get a detailed look at how the earliest residents of Jefferson lived by visiting one of the many homes that are available for public tours. The tour is especially magical during the holidays when the homes are decorated for the season and visitors stroll the streets by candlelight. The Jefferson General Store, which dates back to the 1860s, is another important landmark. It started out as a hardware store before changing into a five-and-dime with all the essentials. The store's shelves are stocked with reminiscence-inducing candies, toys, five-cent coffee, and other vintage goods, making a visit like stepping back in time.