With as long as some of our Texas highways are, it is common to bypass smaller Texas towns on the way to where you’re going without giving any thought to what you may be missing out on. Home to the Ladonia Air Castle, there are several things to do in Ladonia TX that are noteworthy places to visit, whether you’re staying overnight or not.
Add Ladonia to your list of things to do on your next Texas road-trip, along with Sulphur Springs if you can!
Stay in the Ladonia Air Castle
Nestled in a secluded forest is an architectural marvel: the Ladonia Air Castle. It’s constructed from four shipping containers and intertwined with a Bois d’arc tree. This design makes bird watching easy from any of the five private balconies or the enclosed hot tub, which is surrounded by windows.
There is even a crow’s nest that gives you a vantage point from 50-feet in the air, as well as a hammock for the relaxation experience of a lifetime. This spot feels secluded yet sits just one minute from town. It offers easy access to all Ladonia, TX activities.
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Visit Bug Tussle
This oddly named town founded in the 1890’s has only ever had a maximum of 30 residents. All that remains is an abandoned building that stands in front of miles of empty field and the name of the town on its face.
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The speculation is this building was the infamous post office that was once open in Bug Tussle, or an old general store. From stolen highway signs to couples getting married or hosting events there, the name Bug Tussle is undeniably an eye-catcher.
This unincorporated Texas town is a must-see while visiting Ladonia, TX.
Explore Ladonia Fossil Park
An area of Texas once underwater over 80 million years ago, the Ladonia Fossil Park is well-known for its variety and abundance of fossil finds. You can dig for fossils along the riverbed or sift through the sift through the mud at the bottom of the river. When it rains, the flow of the river can expose amazing finds, but the river is often shallow with slow currents, perfect conditions for assimilating into your new role as amateur paleontologist.
Pack a change of clothes and shoes, water, snacks or a to-go lunch, toilet paper, sunscreen, and bug spray to stay prepared. Remember, there are no on-site restrooms, and cell phone service may be spotty.
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*Note: A temporary fossil park has been opened while the original location is undergoing construction. Both locations are along the North Sulphur River, so your chances of bringing home the coolest of souvenirs are the same. Check their website for details on the new location and any upcoming changes.
Drive to Nearby Commerce or Sulphur Springs
When you’re looking for things to do in Ladonia TX, Sulphur Springs is a neighboring town with several beautiful parks, a historic courthouse, Lake Sulphur Springs with its wide variety of fish, the lively downtown plaza with a splash pad, an incorporated park, and evening festivities; plus, the Southwest Dairy Museum with an ice cream parlor and the historic buildings of the Heritage Park & Museum.
In nearby Commerce TX, there’s the Northeast Texas Children’s Museum and the murals of Commerce Square, along with local businesses you can support.
Visit the Caddo-Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands
If you are looking for a campground, somewhere to do some biking or hiking, or just a new picnic destination, the Caddo-Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands are a Texas gem that don’t get the appreciation they deserve. During the corresponding seasons, there are also opportunities for fishing and hunting.
There are 30-miles of trails, split into four main trails, with a variety of lengths. Grab a trail map at the park entrance for easy reference. The shortest winds through pine trees, has gorgeous scenery along the way, and passes by one of three lakes. This is the best option if you’re looking for an easier hike because it’s so flat. The other three trails vary a bit more in their terrain, making them good for experienced hikers, mountain bikers, and horseback riders. Hiking these trails often means spotting horses, as the Caddo-LBJ Grasslands provide an ideal environment for them.
Things to Do in Ladonia TX: Final Thoughts
With less than 1,000 residents, this quaint Texas town embraces its small size while building a big future. Ladonia’s long history, its placement among rich Texas landscape, and its proximity to neighboring Texas towns, like Sulphur Springs, that offer unique things to do make it a destination that offers adventure and serenity all in one place.
Not to mention, it’s home to one of the coolest treehouses in Texas: the Ladonia Air Castle!
Last Updated 2 weeks ago by Jessica Serna | Published: April 26, 2022
