delivers an unforgettable ride. Tucked into the woods near Athens, this attraction lets guests soar above the trees, take in beautiful views and enjoy a side of East Texas not seen from the ground.
It’ s the kind of outing that turns an ordinary summer day into a story worth telling. Whether you’ re a first-timer or a thrill-seeker, the combination of excitement and scenery makes it one of the area’ s most unique experiences.
East Texas Arboretum
Nature at Its Best
Website: easttexasarboretum. org
The East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society offers a different pace- quiet, scenic and refreshing. Visitors can wanderover 100 acres of garden paths, cross the suspension bridge, enjoy wooded trails, and discover the beauty of native plants and peaceful outdoor spaces.
It’ s ideal for a morning walk, a family outing to enjoy the children’ s area, or anyone who simply needs a break from screens and schedules. And while there, pay your respects at the beautiful Veterans Wall. In a busy world, the Arboretum remains one of Athens’ best places to slow down and breathe.
Cain Center YMCA & Cain Park
Play, Move, Repeat
Website: corsicanaymca. org / locations / cain-center
The Cain Center YMCA is one of the community’ s busiest hubs year-round, and summer is no exception. Families can take advantage of fitness opportunities, recreation, special events and youth programming, including a full summer camp schedule open to both members and non-members.
Just outside, Cain Park offers additional space for walking, playing and staying active. One hidden gem within the park is the disc golf course, where beginners and experienced players alike can test their aim, enjoy friendly competition and spend time outdoors.
Kiwanis Park & Splash Pad
Kid-Approved Summer Fun
Website: visitathenstexas. com / 189 / Kiwanis-Park
Kiwanis Park is one of Athens’ most popular family destinations, while O. D. Baggett Park is another valued city park offering additional outdoor space for recreation and play.
Recently updated, Kiwanis Park features a wide variety of playground equipment for children of all ages, along with plenty of open space to run, climb and explore. One of its most popular challenges remains the repainted rocket ship play structure, where adventurous kids can see if they’ re brave enough to make it to the top.
When temperatures rise, the splash pad becomes one of the city’ s favorite seasonal attractions. Open from Memorial Day through Labor Day from 10 a. m. to 8 p. m., it offers the perfect place for children to cool off, laugh and burn energy while parents enjoy one of the simplest joys of summer- watching happy kids have a blast. Located at 406 S. Prairieville Street, Kiwanis Park continues to be one of Athens’ classic family destinations.
Thunder Over East Texas Air Show
July 3 Excitement
Website: thunderovereasttexas. com
Circle July 3 on the calendar. Thunder Over East Texas has quickly become one of the area’ s signature summer events, bringing high-energy aerial entertainment and patriotic excitement to Athens. With thrilling flyovers, aviation displays and a festive atmosphere, the event draws locals, visitors and aviation fans from across the region.
This year promises even more with additional vendors, expanded ground displays,
12 | Greater Athens Magazine | April 2026