By: Holli Fourniquet
There’s a saying, “If you don’t like the weather in Texas just wait a few hours.” That has certainly been true of our winter so far this year. So it’s understandable if you haven’t exactly prepared for cold weather when it hits. Not to worry; here is a quick guide to fun things you can do in Tyler even in cold weather if you happen to find yourself unprepared.
As self-proclaimed foodaholics, our first thought when a cold front hits is where to find some comfort food to warm our bellies. Chili is typically a good go-to meal for when cold weather hits, and here in Tyler, you can get chili in a couple of different forms. There is the traditional bowl of chili. One of our favorites is found at Rick’s on the Square located in Downtown Tyler. This chili will give you the answer to that age-old question: should chili have beans or not? At Rick’s, that answer is definitely yes! The recipe is also a little on the spicier side, which makes this the perfect bowl of chili to warm you up!
Another great comfort food during cold weather is gumbo. Try some of the best gumbo this side of Louisiana at The Catch, located at 1714 S. Beckham Ave.
Some people just like to stay in when it’s cold, and that’s ok. Stop by FRESH by Brookshire’s to pick up your cold-weather comfort food, made fresh by a chef and ready for you to heat and eat at home. Here you will find seasonal soups, chili, casseroles, and family packs of tamales. Everything you need to warm your belly from the comfort of your own home sitting in front of the fire.
Another gold weather food is gumbo. Happy Fish House has great gumbo – it’s rich and the roux is made perfect. Get it with a side of hushpuppies!
Toritlla soup anyone? Don Juan’s on the Square offers a huge bowl for a great price and its authentic and hits the spot when it’s chilly outside.
Speaking of staying in on a cold day, you’re going to need a good book to keep you company. Head over to the Tyler Public Library where you will find books and more. The Tyler Public Library is not your typical library. Of course, you will always be able to check out that bestseller you have been meaning to read, but you can also check out movies or participate in one of their many events.
The Tyler Public Library offers everything from Family Movie Nights and Lego Block Parties to various classes such as sewing and career training to author meet and greets. It’s definitely a place you might want to get familiar with this winter.
To get your blood circulating on a cold day, you might go shopping. Whether you’re looking for a great bargain or something more high-end, Tyler has all the shopping you could want. Plus, if you stay in Tyler to shop, you won’t have to fight the traffic of a bigger city in this cold winter weather.
The typical retail therapy shopping, however, is not all Tyler has to offer if you are looking for some interesting cold-weather recreation. Head to Moon Rivers Naturals. Here you will find body products like soaps and essential oils using local, organic, and real ingredients.
Or since you have a cold day and nothing to do, search through some of Tyler’s best antique, junk, and consignment shops to find your next treasure at Ye Olde City Antique Warehouse.
Is your perfect idea of ‘what to do on a rainy day’ browsing around a bookstore? Check out Pea Picker Bookstore. From old to new, to collectibles and more – there is something to be uncovered in the treasure trove of all things books.
A cold day might be the perfect day to try out one of Tyler’s microbreweries: True Vine Brewing Company or the newly opened ETX Brewing Co. located at 221 S. Broadway Ave., Downtown Tyler.
Research has shown that beer can combat stress, boost your memory, makes skin more beautiful, and can even be used as a cold remedy. In addition to the health benefits, True Vine Brewing also points out, “Because it’s cold outside, your beer will maintain the same temperature it was poured at until it’s consumed.”
Both microbreweries have enclosed spaces for the cold days. So get out there and drink a local craft beer!
Wanna hear some live music? Check out our extensive Live Music Gig Guide for who is playing where and what time.
The Tyler Museum of Art always has wonderful exhibits of high quality. They are located on the TJC campus and most exhibits are either free or have a small fee to see.
Got the kid’s with you? Head to Discovery Science Place in Downtown Tyler for a fun day of science-based activities for all ages.
Times Square Cinema’s Grand Slam is also a good place for the kids (and adults) to let off some steam with their arcade of games, bowling alley, lounge and tons more games.
There is plenty to do in Tyler on a cold day; these are just a few of our favorites. Warm-up in some of the best ways possible this winter. Soon you will be singing along with Elsa from Frozen, “The cold never bothered me anyway.”
For more ideas on these and other things to do in Tyler go to VisitTyler.com.
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