Stephenville/Tarleton Visitors Guide

STEPHENVILLE

Discover the charm of Stephenville, a welcoming city where Texan hospitality meets Tarleton State University spirit. Your adventure starts here!

®

Member of The Texas A&M University System

e m o c l e W to e l l i v n e h p e t S COWB

OF THE W OY C A P I TA L

DISCOVER

Stephenville

WHERE COMMUNITY AND COWBOY SPIRIT THRIVE Proudly known as the Cowboy Capital of the World, Stephenville is a place where western heritage, hard work, and hometown pride run deep. From rodeo legends to local makers, from quiet mornings at the coffee shop to lively nights with homegrown music, there’s something special waiting for everyone here.

Take a stroll through our historic downtown, explore our unique shops and eateries, and enjoy events that bring folks together all year long. Whether you’re visiting for the weekend or just passing through, we hope you feel the warmth of true Texas hospitality and the spirit of a community that’s proud of where it’s been—and where it’s going.

Welcome to Stephenville. We’re glad to have you.

2 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

ORLD

STEPHENVILLE MAIN STREET At the center of our beautiful downtown is the Erath County Courthouse. Constructed in 1892, it is the work of architect James Riely Gordon. It features a striking polychromatic exterior of native white limestone with red Pecos sandstone accents, and, as one of Gordon’s earlier works, it displays several features that have become hallmarks of his courthouse designs.

The amazing district contains over 23 full city blocks surrounding the Erath County Courthouse. Our remarkable downtown square boasts streets paved with Thurber bricks during the 1920s. Filled with a variety of shops and restaurants, this notable destination is a yearround delight.

We invite you to come visit us and see all of the many historic treasures in our Main Street district!

Whether you’re here to visit Tarleton State University, explore our Western heritage, or simply enjoy a welcoming Texas town, Stephenville has something for everyone.

This guide is lovingly dedicated to the memory of Darrell Brown, whose life was a testament to community and service. A devoted public servant, cherished colleague, and steadfast friend, Darrell’s impact on Stephenville and Tarleton State was profound and enduring.

Whether through his leadership with the City of Stephenville, his work in higher education at Tarleton State, his heartfelt ministry in music, or the countless lives he touched through civic, church, and community involvement, Darrell embodied the spirit of unity and selfless service.

May his legacy be an inspiration to all who live, learn, and visit here. May his memory remind us that community is built not just by places, but by the love, faith, and generosity of those who make them home.

VISIT STEPHENVILLE 3

e m o c l e Wo me day t ga FOO TEXAS SIZE

TBALL EXPE

FRIDAY NIGHT LIGHTS: YELLOW JACKET PRIDE ON FULL DISPLAY! There’s nothing like Friday night lights with the Stephenville Yellow Jackets! Yellow Jacket football is at the heart of Stephenville, and game days are packed with tradition, community pride, and unmistakable Texas football energy.

Grounded in tradition and excellence, the Yellow Jackets carry a championship legacy, having claimed multiple state titles.

From the moment the gates open at Art Briles Stadium, the atmosphere buzzes. Families, students, alumni, and fans fill the stands, all dressed in blue and gold, ready to support their team.

The band, cheerleaders, and student section set the tone, while the Yellow Jackets take the field with discipline and intensity that define the program.

• Wear Blue and Gold to show your Jacket pride • Arrive early to soak in the pregame excitement • Stand for the band and cheerleaders as they fire up the crowd • Get Loud! Home-field advantage matters • Stay to the final whistle—every play counts A Yellow Jacket game day isn’t just a game.

It’s a community tradition and a Friday night ritual. Go Jackets!

4 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

RIENCE

A JOINT WELCOME FROM THE CITY OF STEPHENVILLE AND TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY

On behalf of the City of Stephenville and Tarleton State University, welcome. We’re glad you’re here and invite you to experience a community where genuine Texas hospitality and the energy of higher education come together. Stephenville offers a friendly, historic downtown, local dining, and a strong sense of community pride. Just steps away, Tarleton State University serves as a vibrant hub for learning, growth, and Texan tradition, and we’re proud of the close connection between town and campus. Whether you’re visiting for an event, exploring local attractions, or simply enjoying the atmosphere, we hope your time here is memorable. Welcome to Stephenville, and welcome to Tarleton State University.

EXPERIENCE THE THRILL: TARLETON STATE ATHLETICS GAME DAY! Get ready to cheer on the Texans! Tarleton State Athletics is an integral part of the university experience, and game days are filled with excitement, school spirit, and Purple Pride.

Whether it’s football at Memorial Stadium, basketball at the EECU Center, or any of our other competitive sports, attending a Tarleton State game is an unforgettable experience. Join thousands of enthusiastic fans as we rally behind our studentathletes.

•W ear Purple: Show your Texan pride by sporting our university colors.

• T exan Alley: Join the pre-game festivities with food, music, and Texan spirit.

• P oint-du-Hoc: Be sure to witness the iconic ceremony before football games.

• T exan Rider: Keep an eye out for our beloved mascot to take the field before the game.

Check the athletics schedule for upcoming games and come experience the energy of Tarleton State game day! Go Texans!

VISIT STEPHENVILLE 5

CONTENTS 07

08

09

10

12

14

16

18

20

6 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

SHOP & EAT HERE

City & University Swag & Local Eats TASTE THE TOWN

Where to Eat in Stephenville for the Best Local Eats STAY AWHILE

Rest Your Head: Where to Stay in Stephenville EXPLORE & PLAY

Things to Do In and Around Stephenville CITY MAP

Stephenville City Map & Key Landmarks TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY

A Legacy of Learning & Leadership A SELF GUIDED CAMPUS TOUR

A Self-Guided Campus Tour CAMPUS LIFE

Becoming a Texan ANNUAL CALENDAR OF EVENTS

City & Tarleton State University Calendar of Events

VISIT STEPHENVILLE 7

SHOP & EAT HERE

City & University Swag & Local Eats WEAR YOUR PRIDE: CITY OF STEPHENVILLE, YELLOW JACKET & HONEYBEE AND TARLETON STATE TEXAN SWAG

Want to take a piece of Stephenville and Tarleton State home with you? Here’s where you can find official merchandise and local treasures:

8 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

TEXAN SPIRIT GEAR

• Texan Outfitters: Located in the next to Buffalo Wild Wings, this store sells a wide selection of Tarleton State apparel, gifts, and souvenirs.

• Local Retailers: Keep an eye out for locally-themed items at various boutiques and shops around town.

STEPHENVILLE SOUVENIRS & LOCAL FINDS

• Downtown Square Shops: Explore the unique shops on the square and around town for Stephenvillebranded items, local crafts, and artisan goods.

TASTE THE TOWN Where to Eat in

Stephenville for the best Local Eats Stephenville offers a diverse culinary scene to satisfy every palate. From classic Texan comfort food to international flavors, you’re sure to find something delicious.

CASUAL BITES & LOCAL FAVORITES Stephenville’s food scene is casual, welcoming, and rooted in Texas tradition. Visitors will find everything from hearty comfort food and classic café meals to Texas barbecue, burgers, and familiar Tex-Mex favorites.

Many spots focus on scratch-made dishes, generous portions, and relaxed atmospheres that reflect the energy of a college town. Coffee shops, bakeries, and casual gathering places round out the options, offering easy, flavorful choices that feel local and unpretentious.

FAMILY DINING Stephenville also offers a variety of family-friendly dining options designed to welcome guests of all ages.

These restaurants provide familiar favorites, kid-friendly menus, and relaxed environments where families can comfortably gather. With convenient locations and approachable pricing, family dining in Stephenville makes it easy to enjoy a meal together while spending time exploring the community.

UPSCALE DINING & SPECIAL OCCASIONS For those seeking a more refined dining experience, Stephenville offers upscale options with elevated menus in polished yet approachable settings. Featuring thoughtfully prepared steaks, seafood, and chef-driven dishes, these venues are ideal for business dinners, celebrations, or an evening out.

Don’t forget to ask locals for their favorite recommendations!

VISIT STEPHENVILLE 9

STAY AWHILE

Rest Your Head

WHERE TO STAY IN STEPHENVILLE

Whether you’re here for a short visit or an extended stay, Stephenville offers a range of comfortable accommodation options: • A range of well-known hotels offering modern amenities, convenient locations, and reliable comfort for business travelers and campus visitors • Locally owned inns and smaller properties that provide a more personal, small-town experience with easy access to downtown and local attractions • Nearby short-term rentals and guest lodging options ideal for families, groups, or longer visits, offering added space and flexibility • Nearby Camping & RV Parks: Explore the natural beauty of the area with camping and RV facilities located a short drive from Stephenville

10 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

EXPLORE & PLAY Things to Do In and Around Stephenville

surrounding cultural spaces • Experience local music, theater, and creative programming presented by community groups and campus organizations throughout the year • Stephenville Historical House Museum: Step back in time and explore local heritage.

Stephenville and the surrounding area offer a variety of attractions and activities for all interests:

OUTDOOR ADVENTURES • Bosque River Trail: Perfect for walking, biking, and enjoying nature.

• Stephenville City Parks: Relax and play in our numerous green spaces.

ARTS & CULTURE • Attend live performances, lectures, exhibitions, and cultural events hosted by Tarleton State University, which serves as a major arts and cultural anchor for the community • Enjoy public art, seasonal festivals, and community events centered around the Downtown Square and

LOCAL FLAVORS & FUN • Farmers Markets: Experience fresh, local produce and goods.

• Local Events & Festivals: Check the calendar for seasonal celebrations and community gatherings.

• Themed Attractions: Such as Fossil Rim and Dinosaur Valley VISIT STEPHENVILLE 11

108

281

We Love Our Murals

2

7 21

5 12 20

9 4 8 19

1

18

10

17 16

6

15 14

*map not to scale 12 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

13

377

11

STEPHENVILLE CITY MAP

1

LEGEND 1. Tarleton State University 2. Bosque River Trail Access 3. Stephenville Clark Regional Airport

377

4. Erath County Courthouse 5. Stephenville Historical House Museum 6. Stephenville City Park 7. Texas Health Harris Methodist Hospital Stephenville 8. Ye-Oh, Sic’ Em! & The Boot Mural at Stephenville City Hall 9. Boot Statue at Downtown Plaza 10. QP Mural at Quality Printing 11. Welcome to Cowboy Capital Mural at Easter Heat & Air

3

12. Keep Stephenville Beautiful Mural at Belknap & Green St. 13. The Villy Goat Mural at Bosque River Taphouse 14. All-Star Cookies Mural at All Star Cookies 15. PizzaVille Mural at The Pizza Place 16. Daquiriville Mural at Daquiriville 17. Tea2Go Wings Mural at Tea2Go 18. Love From the Ville & Hearsay Heart Mural at Hearsay Bar

67

19. Colorful Heart Mural at Law Offices of Brady Pendleton 20. Mermaid Wall Mural at CAAMS 21. First Responders Mural at Stephenville PD/FD

Buildings & Landmarks Murals & Photo Spots VISIT STEPHENVILLE 13

TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY

A Legacy of Learning and Leadership

College is more than classes, it is where you discover who you are and who you are becoming. At Tarleton State University, there is space for you to explore, connect, and grow in ways that feel true to you.

With more than 150 student organizations, study abroad opportunities that broaden your perspective, hands on research alongside dedicated faculty, and the added challenge and community of the Honors College, you can shape an experience that fits your goals.

All of it is grounded in authentic hometown experiences that make you feel known, supported, and right at home.

This is where you find your people, your passion, and your place.

Texans

180

ACRE CAMPUS

REPRESENT

228 TEXAS COUNTIES 48 STATES & 40 COUNTRIES

23:1

STUDENT TO FACULTY RATIO

150+

STUDENT

ORGANIZATIONS

TARLETON STATE

LOCATIONS

FORT WORTH

STEPHENVILLE

DIVISION I ATHLETICS

WACO

BRYAN

14 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

130+

UNDERGRADUATE &

GRADUATE DEGREE

PROGRAMS

21,000+ FALL 2025 ENROLLMENT

BECOME A TEXAN YOUR FUTURE STARTS HERE

WE ARE INVESTED IN YOU

At Tarleton State University, you are more than an application, you are potential waiting to be realized. Here, you will find a community that knows your name, professors who invest in your growth, and opportunities that prepare you for what comes next.

At Tarleton State University, we believe Texans are capable of incredible things, and we are here to help you make it happen. Your goals deserve real support, and that includes meaningful financial assistance.

Whether you are chasing big goals, exploring new interests, or ready to take the next step toward your career, Tarleton State is ready for you.

Apply today and see where your story can lead at tarleton.edu/admissions.

From guaranteed scholarships to our one of a kind Promise program, we put our commitment into action with real dollars that help make your education affordable.

Explore your financial aid options at Tarleton State: tarleton.edu/finaid/

VISIT STEPHENVILLE 15

A SELF GUIDED CAMPUS 13 TOUR

WELCOME CENTER/VISITOR PARKING

ADMINISTRATION BUILDING

TARLETON CENTER

1

11

Explore the Heart of Texan Pride

90

Embark on a journey through the beautiful Tarleton State University campus and discover the landmarks that make our university so special.

33

77 62

39

30

AGRICULTURE CENTER

18

1322 Co Rd 518, Stephenville, TX 76401 Building numbers and icons reflect the full Tarleton State University campus map and may not appear in sequence.

See map.tarleton.edu.

Parking Garage

THE GATES

63 HERITAGE PARK

TROGDON HOUSE

SMOKESTACK

DINING HALL

65

73

70

60

16 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

ALUMNI ISLAND & JOHN TARLETON STATUE

DICK SMITH LIBRARY

JOE W. AUTRY AGRICULTURE BUILDING

MAYFIELD COLLEGE OF ENGINEERING

54

16

22

18

EECU CENTER 55

60

30 71

MEMORIAL STADIUM

70

33 ST. LUKE’S

65

22

63

73

16

RUDDER WAY

62

54

11

START HERE

WISDOM GYM

 P39

13

39

RING STATUE

BARRY B. THOMPSON STUDENT CENTER

HOUSING ON PURPLE POO WAY

WELLNESS AND CAMPUS RECREATION CENTER

71

55

90

77 VISIT STEPHENVILLE 17

TRADITIONS THAT MAKE US THE TEXANS

WHO’S OUR MASCOT? The official mascot is the TEXAN RIDER. The Rider emerged in the 1970s, following the university’s shift from the “Plowboys” era to the “Texans” name in 1961.

Mounted and proud, the Texan Rider represents Tarleton State’s history, growth, and bold spirit.

You may also hear about OSCAR P, the legendary pet duck of founder John Tarleton, who is celebrated today as a larger than life unofficial campus favorite.

Supporting that spirit is the PURPLE POO, the oldest spirit organization in Texas, whose masked members promote Tarleton State pride at events across campus.

18 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

HOMECOMING AT TARLETON STATE

Launching of the Ducks is a fun and reflective event where students launch rubber ducks into the Nursing Pond, often writing goals or hopes on them as a symbolic way of setting goals.

Silver Bugle Hunt is a long-standing scavenger tradition where teams race across campus solving clues to find the hidden silver bugle, a nod to an old rivalry and a favorite challenge for students.

Midnight Breakfast offers a late-night gathering featuring purple pancakes, served up by the Student Government Association during Homecoming week. It began in 1983 as a pep-raising tradition tied to school spirit and camaraderie.

Beating of the Drum is one of the oldest Homecoming traditions, carried on since the 1920s.

Groups of students take turns pounding on a large drum from Tuesday evening all the way until kickoff on game day.

Together these events make Tarleton State Homecoming a meaningful blend of reflection, nostalgia, friendly competition, and school pride that brings the whole Texans community together each fall.

VISIT STEPHENVILLE 19

ANNUAL CALENDAR OF EVENTS

SEASONAL HIGHLIGHTS CELEBRATING COMMUNITY, CULTURE, AND WESTERN TRADITION

SPRING Spring brings warmer weather and a renewed energy to Stephenville with outdoor festivals, live music, and downtown events. Visitors can enjoy arts and music celebrations, collegiate rodeo events, and community gatherings that highlight the city’s creative spirit and university influence.

SUMMER Summer is marked by relaxed, family-friendly events and outdoor entertainment.

Concerts in the park, community celebrations, and seasonal programming invite residents and visitors to enjoy long evenings, open spaces, and a laid-back college-town atmosphere.

FALL Fall is Stephenville’s signature season, anchored by events celebrating the area’s western heritage and community pride. Football weekends, Rodeo festivities, music festivals, and downtown events draw visitors from across the region and showcase why Erath County is known as the Cowboy Capital of the World.

WINTER The holiday season transforms Stephenville with festive lights, downtown celebrations, and seasonal markets. Winter events focus on family traditions, holiday shopping, and community gatherings that create a warm, welcoming atmosphere throughout the city.

20 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

®

*Scan QR codes for the must up-to-date information

Member of The Texas A&M University System

• Alley Bingo • Cars and Coffee • Cincoville • Downtown Art & Wine Walk • Larry Joe Taylor Music Festival • Tarleton State Band Concerts

• Tarleton State Choir Concerts • Tarleton State Stampede Rodeo • Triple Crown Rodeo • Texas Independence Day - Wings, Wheels and Wonders

• Cars and Coffee • Farmers & Artisan Market (March-October) • Moo-La Fest

• Summer Concert Series • Stars over Stephenville - 4th of July • Tarleton State Summer Camps

• Alley Bingo • Cars and Coffee • Cowboy Capital Pro Rodeo • Holiday Market • Holiday Open House

• Oktoberfest • Rhymes & Vines • Safe Trick or Treat • Spirit of Erath: Cemetery Walk • Western Swing Festival

• Alley Bingo • Cars and Coffee • Christmasville • Erath County Livestock Show

• Holiday Open House • Holly Jolly Christmas • Light Up the Night

VISIT STEPHENVILLE 21

Welcome CONNECT

with the Visitors Bureau TOURISM IS THE HEART OF STEPHENVILLE’S COMMUNITY SPIRIT From the Cowboy Capital of the World PRCA Rodeo and Moo-La Fest to weekly concerts, farmers markets, and Tarleton State events, Stephenville always has something going on. Visitors come for the authentic Western culture, genuine hospitality, and a downtown packed with local shops and dining. As a Tourism Friendly Texas Community, Stephenville continues strengthening partnerships and visitor services to showcase the best of Texas hospitality.

CONTACT INFORMATION: Alyee Whitworth,Tourism Manager | 298 W. Washington Street | 254-522-1225 | awhitworth@stephenvilletx.gov

Stop by our office or visit our website to learn more about all that Stephenville has to offer!

22 VISIT STEPHENVILLE

www.eecucenter.com

VISIT STEPHENVILLE 23

k c a b e m o C e & see us soon!

We hope you enjoyed your time in “The Ville” and on the Tarleton State University campus.

LEARN MORE ABOUT THE CITY OF STEPHENVILLE

LEARN MORE ABOUT TARLETON STATE UNIVERSITY

®

Member of The Texas A&M University System