In Denton County, historic homes and courthouses tell stories of the past, as do places throughout the landscape. There are also various ways to get to know the region: through guided tours, markets, waterside experiences and a zoo that visitors can explore on their own. The blend of culture and nature makes Denton a destination that can be explored through a range of interests.
Courthouses and Homes Tell Stories of the Past
The historic Denton County Courthouse was completed in 1896. Guided tours of the Courthouse-on-the-Square explore the county’s past and the courthouse’s historic role in the local community. The Denton County Courthouse-on-the-Square Museum also offers a chance to see the historic courtroom. You can explore the exhibits at the Courthouse-on-the-Square on your own. Since regular opening hours may change seasonally, it’s best to check them before your visit.
Other tours focus on individual homes and their stories. Tours of the Bayless-Selby House are offered at the Denton County Historical Park. They provide a glimpse into life in Denton County 100 years ago. Tours of the Quakertown House tell the story of Quakertown and its former residents.
The Denton County African American Museum, also known as the Quakertown House, shares the life stories and experiences of Denton County’s African American population from the 19th century to the present day. Its scope thus extends beyond a single historical episode. The Denton Firefighters’ Museum focuses on a different subject: the history of firefighting in the county.
Historic Traces Beyond the Museums
Cemeteries and engineering structures are also part of the region’s heritage. The Harrington, Cassady and Clark Cemeteries are three separate historic African American cemeteries covering 1.77 acres in Denton County. Cooper Creek Cemetery is a preserved remnant of a rural community whose history dates back to before the American Civil War.
A distinctive structure is the Old Alton Bridge: the 250-foot-long steel truss bridge spans the Elm Fork of the Trinity River and sits along the Greenbelt of Ray Roberts Lake State Park. Its historic significance is recognized by two designations: it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1988 and is also listed as a Recorded Texas Landmark by the Texas Historical Commission. Pottery-making is another part of the county’s history. The nutrient-rich clay soil provided raw materials for it and contributed to the development of an early ceramics industry.
Landscape and Water in the County
Denton County encompasses a variety of landscapes. The Eastern Cross Timbers extend through the central part of the county. The Blackland Prairie covers its western half as well as a section along its eastern edge. This geographic variety gives the region more than one landscape to explore, rather than limiting it to a single defining area.
The Elm Fork of the Trinity River flows through Denton County. Along the river, a Greenbelt connects Lewisville Lake and Ray Roberts Lake. Swimming, paddling and fishing are available at Ray Roberts Lake State Park. Visitors interested in water activities will find several options there. The Old Alton Bridge also connects to the Greenbelt and the river, while keeping the area’s architectural and regional history in view.
Markets and Events
Farmers markets, community markets, live music and storytelling events are held regularly at the Denton County Historical Park. Individual event dates may change. The Denton County Farmer’s Market is located in the Historical Park parking lot at the corner of Carroll Blvd and Mulberry St. Its hours are seasonal; check them before you travel.
The Denton Community Market brings visitors together with local artists, craftspeople, farmers and food producers. Its event days are also seasonal. The two market names offer different ways to learn about the area: the Farmer’s Market has a stated location at the Historical Park, while the Community Market is defined by the groups it brings visitors together with.
Experiences and Getting Around
Visitors can explore Sharkarosa Zoo on their own, with information signs and staff on hand to help. Educational presentations take place there every 30 minutes throughout the day. The zoo is located on a 126-acre ranch and also offers field trips, private tours and a walk-through petting zoo. It is open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays, weather permitting. Check the conditions for your planned visit in advance.
Denton Enterprise Airport is also a useful point of reference for getting around: it is within Denton city limits, four miles from the central business district and 15 minutes north of Texas Motor Speedway. The airport provides access to the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. Together with the historic sites, markets and landscapes, it offers another way to experience Denton County—from local history to activities on the water.
Discover more destinations: Lewisville, Roanoke, Lake Dallas, The Colony, Denton, Sanger, Trophy Club, Pilot Point.
For the main travel overview: Texas.
