The true essence of the Texas spirit can be found in our smallest towns – or, in this case, big cities that still have a small-town feel. Tyler is one such place, and, according to Matador Network, it’s one of the coolest small towns in the U.S. to visit in 2021. Here are some of the reasons why:

With a population of just over 100,000, Tyler is far from a small town.
Bob Weston / iStock / Getty Images Plus Collection / Getty Images
Like anywhere else in East Texas, however, everyone knows each other, and the city is about as close-knit as it gets.
Despite being a fairly large city, Tyler is much lesser known than other Texas metros such as Houston, Austin, and Dallas.
Google/Jacob John
That's a shame, as the largest rose garden in America can be found here. It all started near the turn of the century when Tyler's then-thriving peach industry took a major hit via widespread disease of the crops. It took a few years, but over time, roses became more popular than peaches ever were.
The Tyler Rose Garden is easily the most iconic attraction in the city, spanning 14 acres and featuring more than 38,000 roses and other flowering blooms.
Google/Lisa Smith
Spring and fall are the best seasons to visit, with October marking the annual Texas Rose Festival that attracts visitors from all over the state.

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Roses might fuel most of the town's tourism, but they certainly aren't the only reason to visit.
tpwd.texas.gov
There's so much more outdoor adventure to be had - take Tyler State Park, for example. Situated on nearly 100 acres of land, this forested oasis boasts 13 miles of multi-use trails, plus a spring-fed lake perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming.
Just a short drive eastward, Caddo Lake is where you'll find the largest flooded cypress tree forest in the world.
Jennifer M. Ramos / Moment Collection / Getty Images
Shared with our neighbors in western Louisiana, this enchanting place is a kayaker's paradise.
You can also visit the Caldwell Zoo to complete your full day of family fun.
TripAdvisor/M J
It's one of the largest zoos in Texas and features animals from all over the world!
All that exploring sure works up an appetite, so stop by Stanley's Famous Pit Bar-B-Q for some finger-lickin' good grub before hitting the road again.
Google/Stanley's Famous Pit Barbecue
The oldest and most well-known restaurant in town, this place slow-smokes its meats to absolute perfection.

Have you ever visited Tyler? If so, what was your favorite thing to do there? Tell us your thoughts in the comments section, then check out our previous article for more small towns in Texas worth visiting.

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Tyler, TX, USA