Visit Texarkana , which is a town that is located in two states, Texas and Arkansas. This town, situated along Interstate 30, allows you to be in two places at once. You can put one foot in the State of Texas, while the other is located in Arkansas.
The Texas-Arkansas state line goes approximately through the center of this city. The Texarkana post office has the state line crossing through the middle of it. This building is made of pink granite from Texas and limestone from Arkansas, making it a landmark in both States. The town even has two different zip codes. The courthouse is the only Federal building in the United States which is situated in two states, according to the local Chamber of Commerce.
The population of this city is divided into the two states. Arkansas claims 27,000 residents and Texas affirms that there are 35,000 living in the Texas side.
You can take a snapshot with both states in view. An island has been constructed to give visitors this photo opportunity.This island is named “Photographers Island.” It stands in front of the post office and you can put one foot in Arkansas and the other one in Texas.
The uniqueness of this town is evidenced in the local Ace of Clubs House Museum. This is a 22 sided house, supposedly built from the winnings of a poker game. You will enjoy the videotape presentation, along with a guided tour. Remember not to wear high heels nor bring your camera, as both are not permitted in this building. The admission price is $6, with discounts offered for special groups.
The Discovery Place Children’s Museum is an educational experience for children of all ages. The focus of this museum is history and science. The admission price is $4.50, with special rates for various groups.
The Museum of Regional History is an interesting place to visit. Texarkana history is displayed, beginning with the first settlers, the Caddo Indians. Artifacts and biographies of special citizens are exhibited, also. The Scott Joplin Gallery is a special area located in the museum.. This room is dedicated to the composer’s early life and career in Texarkana.
The Perot Theatre is a historic theater, which attracted performers such as Orson Wells and Will Rogers.
This building is still a popular venue for a symphony, ballet, and Broadway shows.
There are many old buildings, each architectually different. A tour of the city, using the maps provided by the local Chamber of Commerce, will enable you to see the grandeur of these historic landmarks.
Overnight lodging is available in the town. On the Texas side there are properties such as the Comfort Suites, Fairfield Inn, Ramada, and other franchise motels. On the Arkansas side, lodging choices range from the Best Western, LaQuinta,to other locally owned properties.
Dining is not a problem in the town. There are American, Steak houses, and Tex -Mex food eateries available.
The Texarkana Chamber of Commerce can be of assistance in getting maps and brochures to make your trip to the town a pleasurable one. You can contact them at 877-275-5289.
Texarkana is a great place to visit and experience the dual states that make it a special place in the history books.
References: The Arkansas Handbook, Diann Sutherlin
AAA Publishing Company
Texarkana Chamber of Commerce