Founded in 1881 by Gulf, Colorado and Santa Fe Railway officials, Temple was named after its chief engineer, Bernard Moore Temple. With a location central to several major cities, the town grew to become an important center for transportation, trading, agriculture and medical services. Today Temple is known for its excellent medical facilities, including Scott and White Santa Fe Center, King's Daughters Hospital, Scott and White Hospital and Clinic, Olin E. Teague Veterans' Center and Texas A&M Univ. School of Medicine. Not limited to medicine, however, the city also is the home of Temple College and many cultural, sporting, and recreational amenities. For additional information contact the Temple Office of Tourism at 800-479-0338.
Things to do in Temple
Belton Lake
Belton Lake is located on the Leon River 16.7 miles upstream of the confluence of the Leon River and the Little River. The lake is known for its expanse and 136 miles of shoreline, making it a popular destination for water skiers, boaters, bikers, swimmers, campers and sun lovers. Call 254-939-2461 for more information.
Czech Heritage Museum
Czech contributions to the ethnic diversity of Texas are highlighted in a comprehensive exhibit at SPJST (Czech Insurance Building.) Preserved artifacts include a 1530 Bible, an 1895 handmade dulcimer and other antique musical instruments, clocks, colorful Old-World costumes, and quilts more than 150 years old. Also features are extensive archives of Czech immigration to Texas. Located at 520 N. Main. Call 254-773-1575 for more information.
Fort Hood
Covering 339 square miles of Central Texas, Fort Hood is a modern Army post staffed with the largest collection of soldiers and fighting machines in the free world. It is the only post with two divisions in the nation - Army's III Corps, 1st Cavalry and the 4th Infantry Division. The 1st Cavalry Division Museum exhibits more than 150 years of cavalry uniforms, equipment, and arms from sabers to assault helicopters. The museum's emphasis is on division combat during World War II, in Korea, and in Vietnam. Artillery, tanks, trucks and captured foreign weapons are also on display. The 4th Infantry Division Museum allows visitors to explore the history of the division through a series of self-guided exhibits which use artifacts, text, and photographs showing soldiers in service to their country through three wars. In addition, the museum has a large number of historical vehicles on exhibit. Visitors are welcome at each of the division's museums. Stop at the main gate entrance from U.S. 190 west of Killeen. Call 254-287-1110 for more information.
Medicine and Science Discovery Center of Central Texas
The restored 1910 Santa Fe depot in downtown Temple is home to the Medicine and Science Discovery Center. The center is designed to provide children with hands-on learning experiences in the science of medicine and affords visitors the opportunity to learn about the diverse medical community in Central Texas. Call 254-298-5172 for more information.
Miller Springs Natural Area
Miller Springs is an immense canyon and wetland area that has been preserved as a natural area offering hiking, rock climbing, bird watching and wildlife photography. The Miracle Mile is a fully accessible boardwalk that allows people with disabilities to view the wetlands and restored native prairie below. Located on the north side of the dam on FM 2271. Call 254-298-5720 for more information.
Railroad and Heritage Museum
Housed in a restored 1910 Santa Fe depot, the Railroad and Heritage Museum features include a pioneer farm, ranch and home articles, hand tools, clothing, and exhibits that are devoted to the early days of railroading in Texas. A retired steam engine is a special attraction. Call 254-298-5172 for more information.
Sammons Park Golf Club
Sammons Park Golf Club features an "old style" par 70 18-hole golf course. In terms of yardage, the course is shorter than some, but still proves challenging due to water coming into play on 14 of 18 holes. The club also features a modern practice facility with a 10,000-square-foot putting green, chipping green and lighted driving range. Call 254-771-2030 for more information.
Stillhouse Hollow Lake
Stillhouse Hollow Lake is rated as one of the purest lakes in Texas for water quality. It is a popular destination for camping, picnicking, hiking, boating, fishing, and hunting. Call 254-939-2461 for more information.
Summit Recreation Center
Summit Recreation Center offers a fitness center with cardio machines and weights, hot tub, sauna, 8 tennis courts, two racquetball courts and a swimming pool. Everything needed to get in shape and have a good time too! Located at 620 Fryers Creek Circle. Call 254-298-5348 for more information.
Temple College Golf Course
Temple College Golf Course is located on the campus of Temple college. Call 254-773-0888 for more information.
Texas A&M Blackland and Grassland Research Center
The main focus at the research center is crops, soil, water and environmental concerns. Located at 808 E. Blackland Road. Call 254-774-6001 for more information.
The Grove Country Life Museum
The W.J. Dube General Store features a collection of tins, boxes, products, old equipment, scales, coffee grinders, tools, hardware and patent medicines. The Planters State Bank recalls early banking days and a blacksmith shop demonstrates the lost art. The U.S. Post Office and Cocklebur Saloon complete the museum. The Grove lies 15 miles northwest of Temple on Texas 36. Call 254-986-3437 for more information.
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