Vernon offers several ways to explore local history: museum exhibits, murals and historic sites in the surrounding area. There are also movies, recreational activities and an annual event. The following topics offer different starting points without prescribing a set itinerary for the day.
Museums with Different Areas of Focus
The permanent exhibits at the Red River Valley Museum highlight a range of subjects. The Berry History and Science Room shows what Wilbarger County looked like in prehistoric times compared with today. This contrast across time offers a different perspective from the safari exhibit in the William A. Bond Trophy and Game Room. The Waggoner Room focuses on the Waggoner Ranch and the well-known family associated with it. The Wright Art Gallery displays parts of the museum collection as well as the annual art exhibition. The range thus extends from county history and the safari theme to collections and art. If you have several interests, you can tailor your museum visit accordingly rather than focusing on just one of these aspects.
The Wilbarger County Historical Museum preserves the history of Wilbarger County. Its focus offers another perspective on county history alongside the individual themed rooms at the Red River Valley Museum. Together, the two museums give you a sense of whether you are more interested in specific exhibition topics or in preserving the county’s history.
Murals and Historical Stories
The Roy Orbison Mural is at the corner of Main Street and Olive Street. It was created by artist Selena Mize. The Hibiscus Mural commemorates Vernon being named the Hibiscus Capital of Texas in 2021. The two murals highlight different local points of reference: one is dedicated to musician Roy Orbison, while the other commemorates the hibiscus honor.
The story of Harvey Dean is also part of the local lore. At the corner of Wilbarger Street and Main Street, he sold tamales to fund his children’s college education. The two street corners thus mark different points of reference in the cityscape: the location of the Roy Orbison Mural and the place associated with Harvey Dean’s story.
Doan’s Crossing is a short drive north of Vernon, in the surrounding area. There is an adobe building there that the Doan family built in 1881 as a store and residence near a shallow ford on the Red River. The site is also associated with the Great Western Trail. The store, residence and ford connect commerce and everyday life with the river crossing in this story; the trail connection adds to this historical context. Doan’s Crossing can therefore be seen as a separate side trip alongside Vernon’s museums and murals.
Walking, Play and Movies
The Hibiscus Walking Trail is a walking option in Vernon. If you’d like to include it in your stay, check the latest route details before setting out. For water play and playground equipment, the Allingham Splash Pad offers a different activity. The two options can be considered different ways to get active, without requiring a particular route or shared itinerary.
Visitors can watch a movie at the Vernon Plaza Theatre; real-butter popcorn is also available there. Check the current movie listings before your visit. Summer’s Last Blast is an annual event in Vernon featuring classic cars, music and food. The program may change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest event dates before your trip. The planning considerations differ: for a movie outing, the listings matter; for the event, check the date and current program.
For the broader travel overview: Wilbarger County.
