Texas Towns to Love: Decatur

Decatur might just be the very definition of a small Texas town with rustic charm and a down-home feel. With less than 10,000 residents and the unique slogan “Eighter from Decatur” based on a Craps game, Decatur is the heart of Wise County and a great place for a weekend getaway. With lots of beautiful outdoor spots, Decatur is a great way to get out of the big city, reconnect with your travel mates and enjoy a slower pace for a few days. Sometimes referred to as “Little D,” Decatur, although small in size, is big in personality. Visitors to Decatur can enjoy downhome cooking, antique shopping and so much more. Only an hour from Dallas and about 40 minutes from Fort Worth, it really is an ideal escape for anyone looking to get away from it all. For a vacay as unique as Texas, pack your bags for Decatur!

Four ways to explore & enjoy Decatur, Texas, in 2025 

• Visit the Petrified Wood Gas Station. Although you can’t actually purchase gas here any longer, you can post for quirky photos and maybe grab a meal at the adjacent cafe if it isn’t too crowded. This roadside amusement was originally opened almost 100 years ago in 1927. 
• Go antiquing in downtown Decatur. Whether you’re a bonafide treasure hunter or just a casual shopper, antiquing can be a fun way to spend an afternoon. What long-forgotten gems from your childhood will you un-surface at these stores dedicated to yesteryear? Two popular spots in the area not to be missed: Nooks & Crannies and Main Street Mall.
• Live your best outdoor life at the LBJ Grasslands National Forest. Located just north of Decatur, the LBJ Forest is a favorite with locals. There, guests can hike, hunt, bike, camp, bird watch, fish and more. With so much wide open space, you can connect with Mother Nature in a way that makes your heart sing.  
• Grab a cup of joe, and, if you’re in Decatur on a Wednesday, lace up your running shoes and go for a jog at Trinity Street Fine Food & Drink. This yummy spot offers everything from breakfast through dessert as well as coffee drinks and adult beverages. On Wednesdays at 6:30, you can meet here for a social run perfect for all ages. Talk about a community gem! 

Decatur-area lodging

If your travels bring you to Decatur, especially in the summer months, you’ll want to consider booking a stay at Great Escapes North Texas. Located in Perrin, Great Escapes is perfect for families and groups, and the on-site water park area will provide endless hours of fun for kids and kids at heart. Pick an RV site or a cabin, grab your favorite people and escape city life for a while at this awesome North Texas campground. Happy trails!