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The 2026 GMC Canyon is here, and it's redefining what drivers expect from a midsize truck. With its rugged design, impressive capability, and cutting-edge technology, the Canyon is perfect for drivers in Athens, TX who need a versatile vehicle for work and play. Whether you’re tackling tough terrain or enjoying a weekend getaway, the Canyon delivers a premium experience that combines power with comfort. Performance and Capability One of the standout features of the 2026 GMC Canyon is its robust performance. This midsize truck comes equipped with a powerful engine lineup that ensures you have enough torque and horsepower to handle any challenge. The Canyon’s towing capacity makes it an excellent choice for hauling trailers or boats, while its off-road features provide confidence on uneven terrain. Drivers throughout Athens, TX will appreciate the Canyon's balance of power and precision, making it a practical yet adventurous option. Interior and Technology Features Stepping inside the 2026 GMC Canyon, you'll find a driver-focused cabin packed with advanced technology. Features like a premium touchscreen infotainment system with smartphone integration ensure you stay connected on the go. The Canyon also offers a range of options for comfort, including heated seats and spacious storage compartments. For those who prioritize safety, the Canyon includes advanced driver-assist systems to help you navigate busy roads with ease. Trim Options The 2026 GMC Canyon is available in various trims, each catering to different needs and lifestyles. From the rugged AT4 for off-road enthusiasts to the luxurious Denali trim for those seeking top-tier refinement, there’s a model for everyone. Pricing starts at an accessible point, ensuring drivers can find a version that fits their budget without compromising on quality. For Athens, TX residents, this makes the Canyon a compelling choice for both daily commutes and weekend adventures. Conclusion The 2026 GMC Canyon combines power, technology, and versatility into one perfectly sized package. Its performance capabilities, advanced interior, and flexible pricing make it a top contender in the midsize truck category. Ready to experience the 2026 GMC Canyon for yourself? Visit Bacon Auto Ranch in Athens, TX today! Explore the available trims, take a test drive, and discover why the Canyon is the ultimate midsize truck for local drivers.

Tough jobs call for a powerful truck that can take on any task without damage. If you're in the market for a brand-new work truck, consider the 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD. Our Athens Chevy dealer is sharing everything you need to know about the Silverado 3500 before hitting the lot! The 2024 Chevrolet Silverado 3500 HD: A Guide From Our Chevy Dealer Power The Chevy Silverado 3500 HD has a standard 6.6L V8 gas engine that offers 401 horsepower at 5200 rpm and 464 lb.-ft. of torque at 4000 rpm. The available 6.6L Duramax Turbo-Diesel engine provides 470 horsepower at 2800 rpm, 975 lb.-ft. of torque at 1600 rpm, and a maximum towing capacity of up to 36,000 pounds! Both engines are paired with an Allison 10-speed automatic transmission. Safety The Silverado 3500 has several assistive safety functions built in, including Automatic Emergency Braking, Forward Collision Alert, Lane Departure Warning, Following Distance Indicator, and Front Pedestrian Braking. These functions use cameras and sensors to alert you to potential hazards in your truck's path. Other safety features in the Silverado 3500 include StabiliTrak electronic stability control, Teen Driver, Buckle to Drive, and IntelliBeam automatic high beams. Entertainment The Silverado 3500 HD has a 7-inch Chevrolet Infotainment 3 system that includes Apple CarPlay, Android Auto, and SiriusXM radio. Once you've used Apple CarPlay or Android Auto to sync your smartphone to your truck, you can use Bluetooth voice activation to make hands-free phone calls to anyone in your contacts! With a SiriusXM radio subscription, you'll have endless entertainment options, including music channels and live sporting events. Seating The front bench seat in the Silverado 3500 is a 40/20/40 split bench that includes under-seat storage for extra tools, emergency items, or travel essentials. The driver and front passenger seats both have 4-way manual controls for optimal comfort. In the double cab Silverado model, the rear seat is a 60/40 bench that can be folded down on either side for more cargo room in the cabin. Exterior The Silverado3500 HD is an extra-large pickup with a commanding presence. Notable exterior features include the 18-inch all-terrain blackwall tires, steel-painted silver wheels, black bumpers, black door handles, and black outside power-adjustable vertical trailering mirrors. The CornerStep rear bumper helps you access your cargo bed without losing your footing while the cab-mounted bed lamps keep your workspace well-lit at any hour. Twelve standard cargo tie-downs rated at 500 pounds per corner allow you to haul extra-heavy loads with ease. Where can you see the Silverado 3500 HD and other top models from the Chevy lineup? Head over to Bacon Auto Ranch in Athens, TX, to check out our available Chevrolet lineup or take a look at our online catalog.

Has your Chevy been giving you some engine trouble lately? Those seemingly minor issues can quickly snowball into major repairs if you don't address them promptly. As soon as you notice signs of engine problems, you should visit your Chevy dealer for an accurate diagnosis and repair. 4 Engine Problems You Should Always Fix at Your Chevy Dealer 1. Engine Won't Start An engine that cranks but won't start can leave you stranded. A dead battery is the most common reason your engine won't turn over. Loose battery cable connections or corroded terminals can prevent enough power from reaching the starter. You need to test the battery to check whether it is the culprit. If the battery tests fine, issues with the starter motor itself or starter relay may be preventing your engine from firing up. You should also check for a clogged fuel filter or a failing fuel pump. However, don't waste time trying to diagnose hard-to-reach components under your hood. Our service technicians can use their diagnostic expertise to accurately pinpoint the issue. 2. Misfiring Engine If you've noticed your Chevy engine stumbling or misfiring occasionally, several culprits could be to blame. Faulty spark plugs that can't properly ignite the fuel mixture can cause your engine to misfire. If your Chevy has worn ignition coils and dirty or clogged fuel injectors, you may experience engine misfires. Have our technicians diagnose the root cause of the misfires before they cause further engine damage. 3. Overheating Is your engine temperature gauge creeping higher than usual? Has your "check engine" light come on due to engine overheating? Overheating can cause serious damage to your engine components if left unchecked. It occurs if the system lacks lubrication or proper cooling due to low coolant levels. A broken cooling fan, faulty thermostat, or damaged water pump could also be to blame for the overheating problem. Do not drive your car if it's overheating, as you could risk warping the cylinder heads and gaskets. Bring your Chevy to the dealership so we can fix the coolant leak and replace faulty components. 4. Loss of Power Loss of power when accelerating signals a problem with the mass airflow sensor, fuel pump, or pressure regulator. A clogged engine filter can also cause combustion issues and loss of power. You need expert technicians to carry out a diagnostic test on the ignition system, MAF sensor, and other engine systems. Addressing engine issues early saves money, prevents breakdowns, and restores your Chevy's performance. If you are dealing with these problems, visit Bacon Auto Country Inc. for professional repairs by our Chevy-trained technicians.

There is no shortage of excellent fishing holes teeming with wall-hanger scaled beauties around Athens, TX. Load your fishing tackle in your Chevy Silverado or GMC Sierra, and go on an exciting fishing expedition at the great fishing spots below. Drive on Over: 4 Fishing Spots Near Athens, TX 1. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center at 5550 F.M. 2495 in Athens is a great spot to wet your hook. This state-of-the-art facility features a 300,000-gallon aquarium, museum, hall of fame, hatchery, and laboratory. TFFC has several ponds where you can wet your hook, and they even offer loaner fishing tackle free of charge. You can also bring your own fishing tackle, but only commercially prepared baits in their original containers or natural baits are allowed. Just keep in mind that the TFFC staff will look over all tackle and bait you bring at the Anglers Pavilion. 2. Lake Athens Lake Athens is a beautiful 1,799-acre lake just five miles east of town on FM 317. The water in the lake is moderately clear, and it's home to white bass, redear sunfish, and crappie. The lake is top-rated for its jumbo largemouth bass, some of which can tip the scale at eight pounds, with a record of an astounding 14.19 pounds. You can catch white bass that measures between 16 and 18 inches and sunfish that reach up to 10 inches, and while there may not be many crappie, if you get lucky to hook one, it's usually of decent size. Lake Athens Marina and RV Park at 5401 Marina Drive offers easy lake access, has a public boat ramp and a bait shop, and rents watercraft if you want to fish on the water. 3. Cedar Creek Reservoir If you're looking for an exciting fishing adventure, take a 15-mile drive west on US 175 to Cedar Creek Reservoir, the fourth-largest lake in Texas, covering 32,623 acres. The lake is home to various fish species, including crappie, largemouth, white, hybrid striped bass, blue, flathead, and channel catfish. With a 320-mile-long shoreline, you'll have plenty of space to cast your line. The biggest bass ever caught in the lake weighed an impressive 14.65 pounds. Catfish are abundant, and hybrid striped bass are stocked annually, with a wall-hanger record of 13.19 pounds caught in these waters. 4. Purtis Creek State Park Lake The 349-acre Purtis Creek State Park Lake on Purtis Creek is another excellent fishing hole near Athens at 14225 FM 316 N in Eustace, roughly 15 miles away. The lake is designated specifically for fishing, with a good supply of catch-and-release largemouth and keeper white bass, sunfish, crappie, and channel catfish stocked annually. You can fish from the fishing piers or boat, and there are fish cleaning stations and boat and kayak rentals. Load your fishing tackle and bait in the truck to drop your hook in the best fishing holes around Athens. Before you head out to catch that big one, swing by Bacon Auto Ranch to take a closer look at all the fantastic new models.

Athens, TX is full of surprises and small-town charm, with plenty of history, art, culture, and family-friendly fun. It's also home to many great seafood restaurants serving world-class cuisine and local favorites. Your sturdy 2022 GMC Terrain with Apple CarPlay and an excellent navigation system is just the vehicle to get you to all of them. 5 Seafood Restaurants Worth the Drive Near Athens, TX 1. WaWa's Seafood Shack WaWa's Seafood Shack, at 1408 Tyler St., serves a great boiled seafood platter full of crab, shrimp, potatoes, and vegetables. It's great for sharing, and when paired with a steaming bowl of gumbo, it's the perfect meal for seafood lovers. Try the spicy crawfish for a special treat that you won't find anywhere else. 2. Catfish Palace Visit Catfish Palace at 200 US Highway 175 W. for huge servings of tasty, perfectly cooked catfish and fried clams. You'll also find great sides, like coleslaw and hush puppies, at the Catfish Palace, as well as a welcoming atmosphere and quick and friendly service. It's a good family-friendly spot if you want to munch on some comfort food in a relaxing environment. 3. Mariscos El Rincon Bar & Grill Mariscos El Rincon Bar & Grill at 300 Pinkerton St. is a top Mexican place with a big emphasis on seafood. It's an ideal place to go if you're looking for something a bit different. They make an excellent seafood cocktail, and the shrimp enchiladas are great too. This place does a great job nodding to Athen's Tex-Mex heritage while providing special treats from the sea at the same time. 4. Athens Boathouse Stop by Athens Boathouse for great fare in a lovely setting. The salmon and seafood platter are exceptional, and they do a good job with oysters. Plus, you can start off your meal with a fresh Cobb salad or share a platter of jalapeno poppers. With excellent indoor and outdoor dining options, Athens Boathouse is a winner. 5. Julio's Market Chicken and Fish Julio's Market Chicken and Fish, at 803 E. Tyler St., is an excellent place to dine with the whole family if you're looking for large homestyle portions of fried fish and tasty tartar sauce. You'll find nice catfish filets on the menu, plus soft rolls to round off your meal. This place is a true crowd-pleaser and is sure to become one of your favorites in Athens. If you're craving fish or seafood, Athens is an excellent place to go. You'll find Tex-Mex-inspired favorites, fried classics, and big seafood boils perfect for sharing with the whole group. For some great wheels to help you drive around Athens in style, visit us at Bacon Auto Ranch and test-drive your next vehicle today.

If you're in or around Athens, TX, and you've got a thirst for knowledge or a love for all things historical, beautiful, or just plain interesting, then you're in for a treat. Climb into your GMC Sierra, buckle up, and take a drive to some of the best museums around! Make the Drive to These 3 Best Museums Near Athens, TX 1. Henderson County Historical Museum Located right in the heart of Athens at 201 E Larkin St, the Henderson County Historical Museum is a treasure trove of local history. From Native American artifacts to Civil War memorabilia, there are exhibits from a wide range of historical periods in a building set up to imitate an old general store. The museum is run by a dedicated team of volunteers who are passionate about preserving and sharing the rich history of Henderson County. They're always ready to answer your questions and share fascinating stories about the exhibits. So, if you're a history buff or even just curious about the local area, the Henderson County Historical Museum is worth a visit. 2. East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society Next head over to the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society at 1601 Patterson Rd. This 100-acre wonderland offers a different kind of learning experience: it's home to more than two miles of nature trails, the historic Wofford House Museum, and a variety of plants and trees native to East Texas. The Wofford House, a 19th-century log house, gives visitors a glimpse into the past, showcasing what life was like for early East Texas settlers.  The surrounding arboretum is a living museum, where you can learn about local flora and fauna. Whether you're a nature lover, a history enthusiast, or both, the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society is a destination worth driving to. 3. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center, at 5550 FM2495, is a unique facility combining outdoor education with a production fish hatchery. The center's mission is to educate visitors and promote freshwater sport fishing while encouraging the conservation of the aquatic ecosystems in Texas. There, you can explore aquariums teeming with  Texas' native fish species, watch a dive show, walk along the wetlands trail, and even try your hand at fishing in the stocked casting pond. It's a fantastic place for families, with plenty of interactive exhibits and activities to keep kids engaged and learning. There are so many places to go around Athens that you'll never have a dull moment! It doesn't matter if you prefer history, plants, or wildlife, there's something that will appeal to you. Once you're finished checking out these great museums, come by Bacon Auto Ranch and let us help you explore our inventory, too! Image Via Pixabay

If you're looking for a charming town with plenty of character and exciting tourist attractions, Athens, TX, is the perfect getaway. Gather your tribe, load everyone in a spacious Chevy Tahoe or Suburban, and head down the road to explore the town's favorite spots below. 1. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center Did you know that Texans spend more money on fishing than other outdoor activities? You can learn all about it and the native aquatic creatures that live in the state's freshwater rivers and lakes at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center at 5550 F.M. 2495 in Athens. The center consists of a 300,000-gallon aquarium, state-of-the-art hatchery, laboratory, museum, hall of fame, and an educational facility that provides numerous educational and fun ways to learn about the Texans underwater. The aquarium exhibits offer a fascinating glimpse into the state's diverse aquatic ecosystems, while the hatchery, one of five state fish hatcheries, helps maintain the quality of fishing in Texas. 2. Lake Athens The scenic 1,799-acre Lake Athens, a popular spot for watersports and fishing, is roughly five miles from town at 5401 Marina Drive. Spend a day paddling, fishing, and enjoying the beautiful scenery on the open water. The lake is famous for whopper largemouth bass, some weighing in at up to eight pounds, and boasts a record catch of 14.19 pounds. There's also a good supply of sunfish, white bass, and crappie. Lake Athens Marina is the ideal place to start your adventure. The marina has a public boat ramp, general store, and bait shop and offers kayak and paddleboard rentals. If you want to stay overnight, Lone Star Camp has lovely modern and rustic cabins and bunk-style houses right on the lake. 3. Athens Scuba Park The Athens Scuba Park at 500 North Murchison Street in Athens is the ultimate getaway for an underwater adventure. This all-inclusive dive facility right on a tree-lined 8-acre spring-fed lake has everything you need for an unforgettable diving experience. With ten diving docks scattered around the lake and sunken treasures that include sailboats, airplanes, and even a bus and a truck, there's no shortage of excitement. The park is a world-class dive site that offers diving lessons, a full-service dive shop, equipment rental, and an RV and tent campground. 4. The East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society Immerse yourself in the beauty of nature at the East Texas Arboretum and Botanical Society at 1601 Patterson Road in Athens. The Wofford House Museum boasts a charming Kitchen Garden that enhances the rustic charm and historical authenticity of the 1850s farmhouse. The Children's Garden is more than just a playground; it's also a beautiful spot to observe birds around in fountains and small ponds scattered throughout the area. Admire the colorful flower beds in the Ruby Key Garden and stroll down the trails through lush woodlands to the Garden in the Forest with statues and fountains over a 115-foot suspension bridge to catch glimpses of bird and animal life. Athens has terrific attractions and quite a few interesting and exciting surprises to discover. While in the area, drop by Bacon Auto Ranch for top-quality vehicles and the town's best maintenance and repair services. Image by Lorri Lang from Pixabay

Springtime is the best time to check out the wonders of the natural world, whether in the wild, on the farm, or in the pantry. Athens, TX has a range of opportunities for you to benefit from the season's bounty and to inspire your adventures, so check out our list of some of the best spring activities in the area. 4 Spring Activities You Can Drive to Near Athens, TX 1. First Responders PRCA Rodeo Held on May 28 to 29 at Henderson County Regional Fair Park and starting at 6pm, this event is sure to get your blood racing. As well as the rodeo, you'll be able to watch BFO freestyle bullfighting and enter the raffles. And before the event there'll also be a barbecue cook-off featuring a crawfish boil, fish fry, and bean contest, costing just $25 for all you can eat. Tickets are available online, so book early for a spring night to remember. 2. Athen's Farmer's Market If you can't get enough of seasonal, locally-grown produce then you'll be thrilled to hear that the Athen's Farmer's Market will open again in May. Held at 100 Cardinal Drive on Saturdays from 9am to 1pm, you'll be able to source the freshest fruit, vegetables, flowers, meat, dairy, honey, and preserves, not to mention the home-made ice cream. 3. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center Springtime in Texas is one of the best times to fish, and you'll get all the information you need at the Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center. As well as learning more about native species at the hatcheries and aquaria, you can view the Freshwater Fishing Hall of Fame and focus on the history and culture of freshwater fishing. Or you could explore the Wetlands Trail to find out more about aquatic habitats. The center is located at 5550 FM 2495 and opens from Tuesday to Saturday 9am to 4pm, or 1pm to 4pm on Sundays. With the Trail Boss package on your Chevy Colorado, you've got all the off-road equipment you need to get over rough trails on your way to the best fishing spots, so visit the center for some extra inspiration before you head out on a trip. 4. Echo Springs Blueberry Farm One of the biggest blueberry farms in Texas, Echo Springs will help you to celebrate one of springtime's best features... blueberry picking! From Memorial Day, the farm will be running pick-your-own sessions for blueberry fans from 8am to 4pm every day. It's located at 7235 FM 607, where you can also visit the gift shop, or buy blueberry-themed bakery goods. There's also the chance to pick up a huge range of blueberry and blackberry preserves. It's the best time of year to get closer to nature, so look out for all the opportunities in and around Athens to appreciate the world around us. And while you're out exploring, don't forget to stop by and see us at Bacon Auto Ranch to appreciate our latest inventory of exciting vehicles and offers. Image Via Pixabay

Load up the Chevy Silverado or Trailblazer and take the road out of Athens, TX on adventures packed with outdoor activities. Hike and bike through breathtaking woodlands wet your hook in the fourth-largest lake in Texas, cool off in the splashiest spot in the region, go off-roading through the mud, and pitch your tent on the shores of a scenic lake. Take the Chevy and Discover These 5 Outdoor Activities Near Athens, TX 1. Explore the Beautiful Purtis Creek Prairies and Woodlands The beautiful Purtis Creek State Park at 14225 FM 316 N in Eustace is just 11.8 miles from Athens and stretches over 1,582 acres of rolling prairies and deciduous woodlands abundant with birdlife. Put on your hiking boots, get on your bicycle, and head down the trails that cut through the woods and run along the shores of the scenic 355-acre Purtis Creek Lake. 2. Pitch Your Tent at Shiloh on the Lake Pack your camping gear in the Chevy and take a short 12.7-mile drive to the scenic 48-acre Shiloh on the Lake campground at 14638 Travis Parkway in Malakoff for an extraordinary camping adventure. Pick a full hookup or primitive campsite in Piney Woods, or pitch your tent on the shores of the beautiful Cedar Creek Lake. Spend your days fishing from the pier, kayaking, and boating on the lake, hiking and biking through the woods, or just sticking your toes in the sand on the sandy swimming beach. 3. Go on a Fishing Expedition at Cedar Creek Reservoir Take a 15-mile drive west on US 175 to the enormous 32,623-acre Cedar Creek Reservoir, the fourth-largest lake in Texas, for an epic fishing expedition. The water is brimming with largemouth, white, hybrid striped bass, blue, flathead, and channel catfish, and the 320-mile-long shoreline has plenty of spots to wet your hook. Texas Parks and Wildlife stock the lake annually with hybrid striped bass, and a whopper of 13.19 pounds was hooked here. 4. Cool Off at Splash Kingdom Paradise Island There's no need to drive hundreds of miles to the ocean if you can hop in your Chevy and catch the waves 24.6 miles away in Canton. The extraordinary Splash Kingdom Paradise Island at 18814 Interstate 20 has a 350,000-gallon wave pool where you can ride the waves on the Flow Rider, glide down thrilling waterslides into swirling pools of water, and a long lazy river if you want to kick back and relax. 5. Hit the Trails at River Run ATV Park The 2,000-acre River Run ATV Park at 2001 County Road in Jacksonville, 37 miles away, is the ultimate spot in the region to head down the trails on horseback, in a golf cart, an off-road motorbike, or ATV, UTV, or your Chevy truck. The routes vary from hard-packed clay to slippery mud, with plenty of challenging sections, and you can ride for days without hitting the same trails twice. Go on exciting excursions and have loads of fun outdoors. To ensure your Chevy is ready for an outdoor adventure, drop by Bacon Auto Ranch today for an expert maintenance service.

Ready to go on a shopping spree? If you're near Athens, TX, you'll have plenty of places to browse and buy. Here are five favorite spots you can easily reach in your car. 1: Athens Village Center Ever wanted a center that offers something for everyone? Then you'll love the Athens Village Center. Nestled away at 1111 E Tyler St, this hidden gem is one of Athens' best-kept secrets. Whether you're looking to buy groceries, clothing, or a gift for someone special, this diverse range of stores has what you need. The shopping center is loved by locals and offers unbeatable deals. 2: Park Highland Center Suppose you're searching for a center with plenty of parking and clean, tidy facilities. In that case, you won't be disappointed with the Park Highland Center, located at 505 S Palestine St. This great little center is renowned for its friendly and helpful staff, who are always willing to go the extra mile. The atmosphere's always pleasant! 3: Burkes Outlet When you want great deals on clothing, Burkes Outlet is always worth a visit. Located at 1111 E Tyler Street STE 127-B, this factory outlet store is excellent for finding good quality clothes without breaking the bank. They have a fantastic selection of sizes and styles, making it easy to find something that suits your taste and budget. 4: Brookshire's If you're looking for an excellent grocery store in the area, visit Brookshire's at 807 E Tyler St. This supermarket has something for everyone and offers terrific customer service. The friendly staff is always willing to help out, even helping you take your groceries to your car! They also have an excellent bakery with delicious treats like cakes and pastries. The store has a great atmosphere, and the fresh produce is hard to beat. No matter what you need, Brookshire's is the ideal place for all your groceries and more. 5: Groom & Sons' Hardware If you're looking for a one-stop shop to get all the supplies and help you need for your home projects, Groom & Sons' Hardware is the place to visit. Found at 219 S Palestine St, this store has a fantastic selection of household tools, garden supplies, and home decor. Regardless of what project you have in mind, they'll have something to fit it. Moreover, the staff are always friendly and knowledgeable, making sure people get the right advice and assistance whenever you visit them. Stop By These Stores in Your New Chevy or GMC! Overall, there are plenty of great stores in Athens. But if you're looking for a new set of wheels to get you around town, visit Bacon Auto Ranch. You'll find some fantastic deals on both new and pre-owned vehicles.

It is a beautiful time to drive and experience some of the fun things to do in the area. There are plenty of fun activities here in Athens, TX. Whether you're looking for something fun to do with your family or friends, we've got you covered! So, grab your jacket and get ready to have some fun! Check out these 3 top activities to experience in Athens, TX. Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center The Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (TFFC) is a popular attraction in Athens and is open to the public from 9 am to 4 pm Wednesday through Saturday and from 1 pm to 4 pm on Sundays. The TFFC offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages, including guided tours, catch-and-release fishing, and hands-on educational programs. The TFFC is also home to a state-of-the-art hatchery, which produces millions of fish each year for stocking lakes and rivers across Texas. It is stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, and more. Pets are not allowed on the grounds, and they also offer discounted admission rates for youth and school groups. East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society Drive your stylish yet comfortable Chevrolet Traverse with heated front seats to East Texas Arboretum & Botanical Society along Patterson Road in Athens. The Arboretum covers over 100 acres and is home to various trees, shrubs, and flowers. In autumn, the leaves of the red maple and oak trees turn a beautiful scarlet, orange and yellow, making the Arboretum a spectacular sight. Take a stroll along the beautiful streams connected by a spectacular suspension bridge, stop for a picnic at the park's picnic area, or unwind on the observation deck while taking in the scenery. There are also offered educational tours and events throughout the year. 3P's in a Vine The vineyard and winery are set among beautiful rolling hills along Douglas Road on the outskirts of Athens. Visitors can enjoy a variety of wines, including red and white wines. Please drink responsibly and in moderation. The vineyard also offers a variety of events, such as live music and wine tastings. When you head to 3P's in a Vine, it is an exciting experience that’s a must-see! The vineyard is open Friday to Sunday, so whether you're looking for an exciting getaway or a fun-filled weekend with friends, 3P's in a Vine is the perfect destination. Stop into Our Car Dealership in Athens, TX So, take the car and check out these activities near Athens. And when you're done, visit us at Bacon Auto Ranch for amazing choices on new and used cars. With our friendly staff and great prices, we're sure you'll love your experience at our car dealership. Image via Pixabay

Enjoy a scenic drive in your GMC Acadia or Chevrolet Trailblazer and discover the best views in and around Athens, TX. Gaze at the stars at two of the best planetariums in the state, enjoy a peaceful picnic on the shores of Lake Athens, stroll through the breathtaking East Texas Arboretum, and explore the natural beauty of Purtis Creek State Park. From planetariums to great parks in the area, there are many places for amazing views! 1. Appreciate the Wonder of the Night Skies For a truly magical experience and unmatched views of the night skies, two of the best planetariums in Texas are under 40 miles away from Athens. The Cook Center Planetarium at 3100 W. Collin Street in Corsicana is the second-largest planetarium in Texas, with a 60-foot diameter dome. The state-of-the-art Center for Earth and Space Science Education Planetarium on the Tyler Junior College campus at 1411 E Lake Street in Tyler is equipped with cutting-edge technology, and you can enjoy a full-dome video experience here! 2. Enjoy the Scenic Views Over Lake Athens One of the most scenic views in the area is over the 1,799-acre Lake Athens on FM 2495, just five miles east of the city. The tree-lined, grassy shores of the beautiful lake are perfect for enjoying the scenery, especially at Lake Athens Marina and RV Park. The park offers kayak and paddleboard rentals for a peaceful outing on the water and tables under the trees to enjoy a quiet picnic overlooking the lake and the surrounding woodlands. 3. Take a Stroll Through the East Texas Arboretum Explore one hundred acres of flower gardens and woodlands filled with wildlife in the magnificent East Texas Arboretum at 1601 Patterson Road in Athens. The serene Ruby Key Garden and more are breathtaking areas with lush green lawns and flowering plants. Follow two miles of scenic trails that wind through the woodlands and over streams connected by a 115-foot suspension bridge to catch glimpses of the birds and deer and to appreciate the breathtaking surroundings. 4. Find Spectacular Scenery in Purtis Creek State Park Just over 14 miles from Athens, Purtis Creek State Park at 14225 FM 316 N in Eustace offers beautiful scenery along the nature trails that cut through 1,582 acres of prairies and deciduous woodlands filled with bird life. Hike down the 1.7-mile Beaver Slide Nature Path for spectacular views of the sparkling 355-acre Purtis Creek Lake and discover the woods around the highly scenic Solar Trail. Find a New or Used Car for Taking in These Great Views There are beautiful natural areas with breathtaking scenery in and around Athens where you can enjoy plenty of outdoor activities and a picnic in scenic surroundings. Stop at Bacon Auto Ranch today for top-quality new and used Chevrolet and GMC vehicles and expert maintenance and repair services.