City of Gainesville, TX
Elite Realty Group · North Texas City Guide
Gainesville, Texas
Nestled in the heart of North Texas, Gainesville invites travelers to experience a blend of small-town charm and rich heritage. Stroll through the historic downtown, where beautifully preserved architecture houses unique boutiques, cozy cafés, and local treasures. Families will love the Frank Buck Zoo, a walkable wildlife experience named after Gainesville’s own world-famous animal collector. Outdoor enthusiasts can explore nearby Lake Ray Roberts or enjoy scenic drives through the rolling countryside. As the official Medal of Honor Host City, Gainesville proudly honors American heroes with heartfelt annual celebrations. Whether you're seeking relaxation, adventure, or a touch of Texas history, Gainesville offers a warm welcome and unforgettable memories.
Cooke
18,295
2024
35
$33K
57.2% Own
42.8% Rent
$297K
2025
Gainesville Fast Facts
County: Cooke
Population: 18,295 (2024)
Median Age: 35
Average Household Income: 33K
Housing: 57.2% own / 42.8% rent
Average Home Price: 297K (2025)
Government & City Services
Essential Gainesville Resources
201 Santa Fe, Gainesville
940-668-4750
gainesville.tx.us/609/Municipal-Court
201 Santa Fe Street, Gainesville
940-668-7777
311 S Weaver St, Gainesville
940-668-4530
gainesville.tx.us/262/Civic-Center
2300 Airport Rd., Gainesville
A general aviation facility, serving the needs of North Texas.
940-668-4565
gainesville.tx.us/99/Airport
104 W. Hird Street, Gainesville
940-668-4540
gainesville.tx.us
Lifestyle Dashboard
Why Visitors & Residents Love Gainesville
Gainesville blends North Texas heritage, historic architecture, family attractions, outdoor recreation, civic pride, and warm small-town hospitality.
Historic Downtown
Gainesville’s historic downtown features preserved architecture, boutiques, cafés, restaurants, and local businesses.
Family Attractions
Frank Buck Zoo, Leonard Park, the aquatic center, and the Frankie Schmitz Express Train offer memorable family experiences.
Outdoor Recreation
Residents and visitors enjoy parks, walking trails, golf, Lake Ray Roberts access, and scenic countryside drives.
Patriotic Heritage
As the official Medal of Honor Host City, Gainesville honors American heroes through meaningful landmarks and celebrations.
Parks and Recreation
Gainsville Parks and Recreation
311 S Weaver Street, Gainesville | 940-668-4530
Leonard Park
30-acre community park with a small zoo, ball fields, a large wooden playground & an aquatic center.
1000 W California St, Gainesville | 940-668-4531Leonard Park Aquatic Center
Family-friendly recreational facility featuring slides, diving boards and other games.
1000 W California St, Gainesville | 940-668-4534Home Grown Hero Walking Trail
A peaceful, tree-lined trail honoring local heroes, perfect for a reflective stroll. The trail-head is located south of Garnett Street and spans a mile one way.
medalofhonorhostcity.comThe Dog Depot At Heritage Park
Fenced park with separate areas for large and small dogs, along with water, benches and shade.
601 E California St, Gainesville | 940-668-4530B. P. Douglas Park
A playground/neighborhood one-acre park with a newly constructed regulation size outdoor basketball court. The park consists of wooden picnic tables and two-swing set stations, playground equipment, splash pad, cooking grills and a water fountain.
602 Barbara Jordan Ave, Gainesville | 940-668-4500Attractions
Gainesville Attractions & Local Experiences
Gainesville Courthouse Square
The historic downtown square is lined with shops, restaurants, and local businesses, offering a true taste of small-town Texas.
Bounded by Main, Dixon, Commerce, and California Streets.downtowngainesvilletexas.com
Amelia’s Attic Antique Store
A treasure trove of vintage finds in downtown Gainesville. Perfect for antique lovers and souvenir hunters.
111 W California St, Gainesville | 940-665-7883ameliasatticantiquestx.com
Butterfield Stage
Historic community theater at a former Carnegie Library for plays/musicals, plus kids shows, and radio-style productions.
201 S Denton St, Gainesville | 940-665-8152Circle N Dairy
A working dairy farm where visitors can interact with calves and learn about milk production. Great for kids and educational fun.
2074 Co Rd 446, Gainesville | 940-372-0343circlendairy.com
Deschain Cellars
A local winery offering tastings, live music, and beautiful views. A must-visit for wine lovers looking to unwind.
8363 US-82, Gainesville |940-202-9011deschaincellars.com
Frank Buck Zoo
A small zoo founded in 1930 and located in the 30 acres Leonard Park in Gainesville, Texas, United States. The zoo started as the Gainesville Community Circus in 1930. It is home to more than 130 animals.
1000 W California St, Gainesville | 940-668-4539gainesville.tx.us/1064/Frank-Buck-Zoo
Frankie Schmitz Express Train
A miniature 1/4 size replica steam engine passenger train for 50 passengers for a tour around Leonard Park.
1000 W California St, Gainesville | 940-668-4530Gainesville Municipal Golf Course
Holes 18 | Par 71 | Length 6,546 yards
The course design lends itself to be enjoyed by the beginner as well as the most accomplished golfer.
Wide open fairways along with crowned greens allows this course to be enjoyed by all.
Just be prepared to reach for each and every club in your bag as you work to conquer this classic course.
gainesville.tx.us/110/Golf-Course
Lavender Ridge Farms
ust outside town, this peaceful farm offers lavender fields, a quaint gift shop, and seasonal events. Ideal for a relaxing day trip.
2391 CR 178, Gainesville | 940-665-6938lavenderridgefarms.com
Medal of Honor Park
Here amongst beautiful gardens, landscaping, and park benches, one can pause to reflect, remember, and give thanks to those who bravely served our country. This gateway into the city reminds everyone entering that Gainesville, Texas is indeed the Most Patriotic Small Town in America! Patriotism shines brightly here, and you too can experience the true meaning of American pride when visiting this park.
SEQ, W California St, Gainesville | 940-580-1828medalofhonorhostcity.com/medal-of-honor-park
Morton Museum of Cooke County
Set in a landmark 19th-century building, this museum offers regional history exhibits & a gift shop.
210 S Dixon St, Gainesville | 940-668-8900mortonmuseum.org
Santa Fe Depot Museum
A collection of railroad, Coca Cola, Harvey Girls and Gainesville Community Circus memorabilia, plus a Cooke County timeline are on exhibit at the Santa Fe Depot Museum.
605 E California St, Gainesville | 940-668-4579mortonmuseum.org/santa-fe-depot-museum
WinStar World Casino
- 15 minutes away
Located just across the Oklahoma border, this massive casino offers gaming, dining, and entertainment.
winstar.com
Local Restaurant Favorites
Gainesville Dining Guide
County Seat Kitchen & Cocktails
Upscale cocktail lounge and eatery serving elevated bar food with entertainment.
105 W California St, Gainesville | 940-641-3800facebook.com/TheCountySeatKitchenAndCocktails
El Tapatio
Enjoy authentic Mexican food, with its vibrant flavors and cultural heritage.
300 I-35, Gainesville | 940-612-2230eltapatiogainesvilletx.com
FUKU Japanese Grill
Japanese fare including sushi rolls, hibachi, bento, and teriyaki offered in a casual setting.
2118 E. HWY 82, Gainesville | 940-612-2266fukuorder.com
Hungry Hippo Sub Shop
Casual eatery with a hippo theme, serving a range of Italian-style sandwiches, subs and salads.
112 N Commerce, Gainesville | 940-665-0025facebook.com/thehungryhippogainesville
Goodies On Commerce
Cozy, counter-serve restaurant serving breakfast, panini, and healthy offerings, plus beer and wine.
111 N Commerce St, Gainesville | 940-242-1123goodiesoncommerce.com
Krootz Brewing Company
"Independent craft brewery, full-service scratch restaurant and bakery offering dine-in, pick-up and full on-site or off-site catering.
315 W. Elm St., Gainesville | 940-668-0307krootzbrewingcompany.com
Lavender Ridge Farms & Cafe
Menu includes lavender inspired entrees, desserts and beverages in addition to traditional lunch fare.
2391 CR 178, Gainesville | 940-665-6938lavenderridgefarms.com
Los Mariachis Restaurant
Nachos, fajitas, and margaritas highlight the menu at this casual restaurant offering Tex-Mex eats.
319 N. Commerce, Gainesville | 940-612-1721facebook.com/LosMariachisTX
Main Street Pub & Steakhouse
Casual steakhouse serving up comfort fare including beer, cocktails, and wine.
216 W Main Street, Gainesville | 940-668-4040facebook.com/MainStreetPubGainesville
Trails Inn Restaurant
Casual eatery serving breakfast, pancakes and fried fare, along with beer.
3007 US-82, Gainesville | 940-736-5891trailsinnrestaurant.com
Wolf Den Family Restaurant
An eatery offering classic comfort-food dishes like chicken fried steak, burgers and catfish, plus sweet tea.
1901 W. California St., Gainesville | 940-665-9653wolfdenrestaurant.com
Elite Realty Group · City Living Guide
Discover Life in Gainesville
Gainesville, Texas offers small-town charm, historic beauty, family attractions, public services, outdoor recreation, local dining, parks, museums, wineries, and a proud civic identity in the heart of North Texas.
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