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.

