Five Unexpected Places to Stop on a Drive from Caddo Mills, Texas to Cleburne, Texas

If you're looking for a weekend road trip, look no further than the scenic drive from Caddo Mills to Cleburne, Texas. This 140-mile journey takes around two and a half hours, making it perfect for a day-trip or a weekend getaway. Along the way, you'll pass through some of the most beautiful and unexpected places in Texas, from historic landmarks to picturesque parks. Here are five must-see spots that you won't want to miss.

The Halfway Point: Dallas, TX

Before you head to the smaller towns, stop in the city of Dallas, which is about halfway through the drive. You can spend an entire day exploring the city filled with countless attractions. Some of the highlights include the Dallas Arboretum and Botanical Garden, the Sixth Floor Museum at Dealey Plaza, and the Dallas World Aquarium.

If you're looking for a more laid-back experience, take a stroll through the Bishop Arts District, where you'll find funky boutiques, local restaurants, and art galleries. Make sure to grab a sweet treat from Emporium Pies, a local favorite.

1. Sulphur Springs, TX

Located about an hour's drive from Caddo Mills, Sulphur Springs is a charming small town, known for its beautiful courthouse, which was built in 1895. The courthouse is still in use today and is surrounded by a historic downtown that is perfect for a leisurely stroll.

If you're looking for a place to eat, head to the Oaks Bed and Breakfast. It's a charming restaurant inside an old Victorian mansion, and their cheese grits are a must-try.

2. Jefferson, TX

If you're interested in history, don't miss Jefferson. This town was once a major port on the Big Cypress Bayou and was one of the most prosperous towns in Texas during the mid-19th century. Today, Jefferson is a step back in time with dozens of historic buildings, including the Jefferson Carnegie Library, which was built in 1907 and still serves the community today.

For lunch, try out Kitt's Kornbread Sandwich and Pie Bar. It sounds like a strange combination, but their chicken salad on cornbread is delicious.

3. Tyler State Park, TX

Take a break from the drive and get closer to nature at Tyler State Park. The park covers over 1,000 acres and has over 13 miles of hiking trails. There are also plenty of places to picnic and swim during the warmer months.

While you're in the area, don't miss Stanley's Famous Pit Barbecue in Tyler. Texans know their barbecue, and Stanley's is considered one of the best in the state.

4. Waco, TX

Waco, Texas, is famous for its connection to Baylor University and for being the home of Chip and Joanna Gaines, who rose to fame on HGTV's Fixer Upper. But there's so much more to the city than just the world-renowned Magnolia Market.

Take a walk through the Cameron Park Zoo, which is home to over 1,700 animals. Or, visit the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame and Museum. If you're hungry, head to Health Camp, a classic burger joint that's been serving up delicious, greasy food since 1949.

5. Glen Rose, TX

End your journey in Glen Rose, a charming small town that's home to Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, a conservation center where you can see over 1,100 animals from 50 different species.

For dinner, head to Hollywood and Vine. It's a restaurant inside a historic mansion, and their chicken fried chicken is a must-try.

Take the road trip

If you're looking for a weekend adventure or just a day trip, the drive from Caddo Mills to Cleburne, Texas, is the perfect journey. With Dallas as a halfway point, you can take time to explore both a city and smaller towns. From Sulphur Springs' charming courthouse to Jefferson's historic library, Tyler State Park's nature scene, Waco's attractions, or Glen Rose's unique Fossil Rim Wildlife Center, there's something for everyone.

Don't forget to stop for some good eatin', too. From cheese grits at the Oaks Bed and Breakfast in Sulphur Springs to the famous chicken fried chicken at Hollywood and Vine in Glen Rose, there are plenty of unique and delicious restaurants to try. So pack your bags, buckle up, and get ready for a trip you'll never forget.