Best Things to Do in Gilmer, TX This Weekend
It's Friday afternoon and you're looking for something to do. Good news: Gilmer rewards spontaneity. Whether you want outdoor adventure, live music, great food, or just a change of scenery, here's your playbook for the next 48 hours.
This Weekend's Best Bets
| Day | Morning | Afternoon | Evening |
|---|---|---|---|
| Saturday | Breakfast at Eagle's Nest | Barnwell Mountain trails | Dinner + live music |
| Sunday | Brunch at BeBe's | Lake Gilmer picnic | BBQ at Dubya's |
Saturday
Morning: Fuel Up
Eagle's Nest Cafe opens at 6:00 AM (7:00 AM Saturday). Get the daily special, fresh-baked rolls, and bottomless coffee. The homemade pies are worth the calories if they have them.Late Morning: Hit the Trails
Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area is open sunrise to sunset. Drive the scenic trails, hike the ridge for views, or just explore the campground. Bring water — Texas mornings warm up fast.Afternoon: Lake Time
Lake Gilmer is free and open dawn to dusk. The north shore has shaded picnic tables and bank fishing. Pack a cooler and make an afternoon of it.Evening: Dinner & Entertainment
Option A: Open Range Bar & Grill for steak, pizza, and live music. Check their schedule — Saturday nights often have bands.Option B: Davidson's Bar & Grill for burgers, drinks, and balcony seating. Also hosts live music on select nights.
Option C: La Finca for fajitas and margaritas if you want Mexican food and a full bar.
Sunday
Morning: Brunch
BeBe's (formerly Lori's Home Cooking) serves big portions of home-cooked breakfast. Check their Facebook for the daily special. Get there before 9 AM if you want to beat the church crowd.Late Morning: Downtown Stroll
Walk the historic square, browse antique shops, and grab coffee at Huey's or a treat at Uncle Joe's. The courthouse is especially photogenic in the morning light.Afternoon: Wind Down at the Lake
Return to Lake Gilmer or find a quiet spot for reading, fishing, or just doing nothing. Sundays in East Texas are made for slowing down.Evening: BBQ Before You Go
Dubya's Smokehouse is the perfect last meal in Gilmer. Brisket, sausage, free beans, and the kind of food that makes you postpone your departure. Get there before 2 PM — they sell out.Weekend Event Checklist
Before you finalize plans, check if any of these are happening:
If It Rains
Frequently Asked Questions
What's open on Sunday in Gilmer? Restaurants: La Finca, Chayo's (until 2 PM), chain drive-throughs. Most local spots are closed.
Where's the best Saturday night spot? Open Range Bar & Grill for live music and axe throwing. Davidson's for a more relaxed patio vibe.
Can I visit Barnwell Mountain without reservations? Yes for day use. Camping requires booking in advance, especially on weekends.
What's the best last-minute activity? Lake Gilmer. No reservations, no fees, no planning required.
Last updated: July 2026