Twinned with a city of the same name in neighbouring Arkansas, Texarkana lies in the far east of Texas. Its name combines the words “Texas”, “Arkansas” and “Louisiana” and is said to have been coined by the St. Louis, Iron Mountain and Southern Railway’s surveyor, Colonel Gus Knobel.
Things to do in Texarkana
Learn about the people, events and industries that have left their mark on Texarkana at the Museum of Regional History, which occupies a former insurance building dating back to 1879. Hear about the indigenous Caddo people who once inhabited the region and the explorations of early Spanish and French expeditions. Texarkana’s musical heritage is also on display, with a highlight of its collection showcasing one of Scott Joplin’s pianos.
Classic car enthusiasts shouldn’t miss a visit to the Four States Auto Museum, where around 15 automobiles dating back around 100 years are on display at any one time. In addition to its classic vehicles, which range from a Ford Model T to a Studebaker dragster and a vintage horse-drawn hearse, the museum features a fascinating collection of automotive books and periodicals.
One of Texarkana’s most iconic architectural landmarks is the Ace of Clubs House, a late-19th-century residence designed in an Italianate Victorian style. It’s named after its resemblance to a club from a deck of playing cards and is topped by a six-metre-high tower. Originally built by Texarkana mayor James Draughon, the house is listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
Getting around Texarkana
Texarkana Regional Airport is a 10-minute drive from Texarkana’s city centre and has regular flights to Dallas-Fort Worth. By road, Dallas is three hours away. Trains connect from Chicago, San Antonio and Los Angeles to the Texarkana Union Station while buses travel throughout the city.