Discover the best things to do in Vernon, Texas — from exploring its historic downtown to the annual Bacon City, USA Festival. Plan your next Texas road trip with this small-town gem full of charm, history, and delicious food.
Weekend Guide to Vernon, TX
There’s something special about small-town Texas — friendly locals, a slower pace, and plenty of charm. Vernon, Texas, tucked away in North Texas near the Red River, is one of those hidden gems that’s worth adding to your travel list.
On a recent weekend road trip, my son and I made the drive to Vernon to experience what this welcoming town had to offer, and it did not disappoint!
Exploring Downtown Vernon
Our first stop was downtown Vernon. It’s lined with old brick buildings, vintage signs, and local shops that give it that authentic Texas feel. We popped into a few antique stores and local boutiques — perfect for browsing and picking up a few unique finds.
If you visit on a sunny weekend, take a walk around the courthouse square. The murals scattered throughout downtown make for great photo spots and add to Vernon’s creative, small-town vibe.
Bacon City, USA Festival
If you’re looking for a reason to visit Vernon, plan your trip around the annual Bacon City, USA Festival — one of the most unique and fun small-town events in Texas!
Held each fall, the festival celebrates all things bacon with delicious food, live music, vendors and family-friendly entertainment.
You’ll find local vendors serving up creative bacon-inspired dishes, from bacon-wrapped jalapeños, bacon-wrapped nachos, bacon ice cream and bacon popcorn.
The festival also includes a bacon cook-off, bounce houses and local shopping vendors, making it a perfect event for families or anyone who loves a good slice of crispy bacon (and who doesn’t?).
The festival begins at 11am and ends at 10 pm. This year the headliner for the evening concert was Mike Ryan and Wade Bowen. We brought our lawn chairs and enjoyed an evening under the stars listening to awesome country music. This is a yearly event you don’t want to miss out on!
Pro tip: Arrive early and watch the bacon eating contest!
Local Eats and Treats
No Texas town visit is complete without good food, and Vernon Parts Sports Bar is a local favorite that hits the spot!
This laid-back spot serves up hearty portions and a fun, welcoming atmosphere — the kind of place where locals gather to catch up over burgers, wings, and an ice-cold drink. We stopped in for dinner, and the food did not disappoint.
This sports bar has plenty of tvs to watch a game and live music in the evenings!
Wilbarger County Historical Museum
Another must-see for history lovers is the Wilbarger County Historical Museum, which gives a deeper look into Vernon’s pioneer past. From early settlers to agriculture and railroads, it’s a great stop to learn more about how this community came to be.
Red River Valley Museum
Be sure to stop by the Red River Valley Museum, located on the Vernon College campus. This museum showcases everything from local history to Native American artifacts and even a wildlife exhibit.
It’s small enough to explore in about an hour but packed with fascinating stories and displays that give a real sense of the area’s history.
Outdoor Fun Near Vernon
Just a short drive from town, you’ll find Doan’s Crossing, a historic site marking the route of the Great Western Cattle Trail. It’s a peaceful spot that’s perfect for stretching your legs and learning about Texas history.
Why You Should Add Vernon, Texas to Your Travel List
Vernon might not be the biggest dot on the Texas map, but that’s exactly what makes it special. It’s the kind of place where you can slow down, enjoy local history, and connect with the true heart of Texas.
Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway or a quick road trip, Vernon offers plenty of small-town charm, Texas hospitality, and — if you time it right — bacon-filled fun!
