Longview, TX
 

OK, it looks like I am going to be traveling to Longview Texas next week.

To begin with, I have no idea where the place is, I saw the airport GGG, looks like a regional airport though.

Any feedback on the place? Things to do, where to stay?

Thanks

Hope you had a nice time in Longview. East Texas is not that bad (if nothing else, they have all the major chains ;) ). Tyler's not far away and is pretty, especially when the roses are in bloom.

Longview tx hotels- hampton inn north or hilton garden inn??
 

Have an upcoming stay in Longview. Anyone know if either of these two hotels are better than the other? They seem to be the newest. Thanks

It's been a LOOONG time since I've been there, so can only go by experiences with chains themselves. I have found HGI to be slightly more upscale, but both brands are very solid.

HGI is the better of the two... have a good solid burger at Jucy's or The Butcher Shop. Long shot, but if you do Brazilian JiuJitsu, there is a 5 time world champion that trains there, at AMBJJ called Somalia.

Also worth noting that the Longview location of Bodacious Bar-B-Q made the latest Texas Monthly top 50 list for BBQ. In fact, it placed 4th.

I've never been to a Bodacious BBQ. I believe it's a small chain of franchisees/licensees and some of the locations look downright depressing but I would certainly be willing to give the GGG location (2227 S. Moberly Ave.) a try when passing through East Texas.

Can't comment on hotels in GGG. I've only ever passed through town on the way between DAL & SHV or stopped to buy booze (certain bourbons are easier to find at liquor stores over there). But, as noted upthread, TYR is close and has a very impressive rose garden. SHV is an hour east for casino gambling and live horse racing.


How do those compare to East Texas Burger Co. in Mineola?

I see you are clearly a connoisseur. Jucy's is more greasy spoon than gourmet... so think old time fat bomb hamburger with delicious taste, but stock standard options. Butcher shop reminds me of a Fuddruckers in terms of style, but the meat is far higher quality, and it is family run business instead of a corporation.

Meh - I ate at #3 yesterday. Wasn't that impressed.

Let me know if anyone goes to #4 in Longview - I'd like to hear how it is!

I used to live in Longview. Bodacious used to be a good decent place. I haven't been since it got bumped up to #4 , but according to family in the area you have to get in line early. A guy who married into the family took it over and hasn't looked back since.