Weekend in Gilmer, TX | 2-Day Itinerary

Weekend in Gilmer, TX

Two days is the perfect amount of time to experience Gilmer. Long enough to eat at three great restaurants, hit Barnwell Mountain, and catch a sunset at the lake. Short enough that you leave wanting more.

Saturday

Morning (8:00 AM–12:00 PM)

Breakfast: Eagle's Nest Cafe. Get there early for the fresh-baked rolls and daily special. The fried chicken is hand-breaded and worth every minute of the wait.

Activity: Barnwell Mountain Recreation Area. Spend the morning on the easy scenic trails — either in your vehicle or on foot. The views from the ridge are worth the drive alone.

Afternoon (12:00 PM–4:00 PM)

Lunch: Dubya's Smokehouse. Brisket, sausage, and free beans. Get there before 1 PM or risk a sell-out.

Activity: Lake Gilmer. Pack a cooler and post up at the north shore. Fish from the bank, watch for bald eagles, or just enjoy the quiet.

Evening (4:00 PM–10:00 PM)

Dinner: Open Range Bar & Grill. Steak or pizza, cold drinks, and axe throwing if you're feeling adventurous.

Nightcap: Walk the downtown square at sunset. The courthouse is beautiful in the golden light.

Sunday

Morning (8:00 AM–12:00 PM)

Breakfast: BeBe's (formerly Lori's). Home-cooked classics and huge portions. Check their Facebook for the daily special.

Activity: Downtown shopping. Browse the antique shops and boutiques around the square. Czech Please Microbakery for pastries if they're open (Thu–Sun only).

Afternoon (12:00 PM–4:00 PM)

Lunch: La Finca. Fajitas, margaritas, and the best green salsa in town.

Activity: Winery visit. Los Pinos or Rowdy Creek Ranch for a tasting and a lazy afternoon in the vineyard.

Evening

Dinner: Duran's Italian on the square. Chicken piccata, lasagna, or pizza. Walk the square after dinner before you head home.

Weekend Budget Estimate

ExpenseBudgetMid-RangeComfortable
Hotel (2 nights)$120$180$260
Food (2 days)$100$160$240
Activities$20$60$120
Gas/misc$30$50$80
Total$270$450$700

Insider Tips for the Perfect Weekend

  • Book Barnwell camping early if you want to sleep on the mountain. Weekends fill up.
  • Check event calendars. Live music at Open Range or Davidson's can make your Saturday night.
  • Bring cash. Some of the best spots (BBQ joints, small shops) prefer it.
  • Pack layers. East Texas mornings are cool, afternoons are hot, evenings are perfect.
    • Last updated: July 2026