Oil Capital Driving Tour

The Oil Capital Driving Tour presents a flexible and personalized way to explore Kilgore, Texas, for just $35 per group (up to 5 people). This private tour lasts approximately 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace, and includes pickup options, making it a convenient choice for those wanting to see local gems at their leisure. Designed by expert guide Sabra Simmons, this journey offers a self-guided experience using the Pintours App, giving you control over which stops to explore more deeply and which to skip. This setup ensures a crowd-free, relaxed atmosphere perfect for independent explorers and history enthusiasts alike.

This tour stands out for its flexibility and customization, allowing you to pause at any stop for as long as you wish and access detailed information right on your smartphone. While the tour covers some of the most notable sites related to oil history and local culture, the ability to tailor your itinerary makes it especially suitable for those who prefer a personalized pacing without the rush of larger group tours. However, note that lunch is not included, so plan accordingly if you want a meal during your outing.

Key Points

• Private, self-guided tour with no crowds or strict time limits
• Affordable price of $35 per group, suitable for up to 5 people
• Flexible duration of 1 to 3 hours, depending on your pace
• Includes access to the Pintours App Guide for detailed info
• Stops at four significant sites related to oil history, local culture, and historic landmarks
• Pickup available, simplifying the start of your adventure

Kilgore’s Oil Museum: Exploring the Oil Boom

The East Texas Oil Museum in Kilgore is the first stop, where the rise of the East Texas oil industry comes alive through interactive exhibits and authentic artifacts. Visitors gain insight into how oil transformed the region, making this museum a highlight for history buffs. The museum’s admission is free, allowing you to spend about 20 minutes here without additional costs. It’s a great introduction to the area’s oil-driven development.

Historic Kilgore Cemetery and Kilgore College

Next, the tour guides you through Kilgore Cemetery, a peaceful site where early residents are buried. This stop offers a glimpse into the town’s early days and local heritage. You’ll spend around 55 minutes exploring both the cemetery and the nearby Kilgore College, which adds a sense of community history to your visit. Both sites are free to visit, and this segment provides a calm, reflective break during your exploration.

The Significance of Worlds Richest Acre Park

Worlds Richest Acre Park commemorates the epic oil boom that made Kilgore famous. Sitting on land that once produced millions of barrels of oil, this historic site offers a tangible connection to the oil industry’s peak. The park’s admission is included in the tour, and it typically takes around 30 minutes to walk through. It’s a must-visit for those interested in the economic impact of oil in Texas.

Art Deco Charm at The Texan Theater

A bit further afield, The Texan Theater in Greenville presents a beautifully restored Art Deco style from its original opening in 1930. The theater’s preservation allows visitors to appreciate the classic design and historical ambiance of early 20th-century cinemas. The tour allocates 20 minutes for this stop, which includes admission. This site appeals to fans of architecture and vintage entertainment.

Practical Details: Meeting Points and Access

The tour begins at Kilgore College located at 1100 Broadway Blvd. The last stop is at Hickory Grove Baptist Church on Co Rd 284, where visitors can also explore Hickory Grove Cemetery. The pickup option adds convenience, and the tour is suitable for most travelers, including those with service animals. The area is close to public transportation, making access straightforward.

Flexibility and Control with Pintours App

A key feature of this tour is the use of the Pintours App, which functions as your smartphone guide. It allows you to pause, spend more time at your favorite spots, or skip those less interesting. All essential details about each site are accessible via the app, making the experience completely customizable. This setup is ideal for independent explorers who prefer to avoid strict schedules and large groups.

No Food Included: Plan for Lunch

While the tour offers a rich selection of sites, lunch is not included. Travelers should plan to bring snacks or plan a meal around the tour, especially if you intend to spend the full 3 hours exploring. Since the itinerary is flexible, you can incorporate a meal break at your convenience.

Tour Cost and Cancellation Policy

The $35 fee covers up to 5 people, making this an economical choice for groups or small families. The tour features a free cancellation policy, allowing refunds if canceled at least 24 hours in advance. Changes or cancellations less than 24 hours before the start are not eligible for refunds, so planning ahead is advisable.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This tour is well-suited for history buffs, culture seekers, and independent travelers who enjoy customizing their experience. If you appreciate self-paced exploration and local history, the Oil Capital Driving Tour offers a personalized look at Kilgore’s oil legacy and historic sites, all at an affordable price. It’s especially appealing for small groups seeking a private, flexible outing.

Final Thoughts on the Oil Capital Driving Tour

The Oil Capital Driving Tour offers a practical way to explore Kilgore’s oil history and local landmarks without the constraints of a traditional guided tour. Its customizable approach, via the Pintours App, provides freedom and flexibility that larger tours can’t match.

While it doesn’t include meals or extensive guided commentary, the affordable price and personalized pacing make it an attractive option for those who appreciate independent travel and historic sites. If you want to discover Kilgore’s story at your own speed and in your own way, this tour fits the bill.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I extend the tour beyond 3 hours?
Yes, since the tour duration is flexible, you can take as much time as you like at each stop or add additional stops if desired.

Is transportation provided?
Transportation is not included unless you purchase the vehicle with driver option. The tour is primarily self-guided using the Pintours App.

Are there any physical requirements or accessibility considerations?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is suitable for those who can walk and stand at each site. Service animals are allowed, and the area is near public transportation.

What should I bring?
Bring a smartphone with the Pintours App, some snacks or a meal plan, and comfortable walking shoes. No lunch is included in the package.

How do I cancel the tour?
You can cancel up to 24 hours before the scheduled start for a full refund. Cancellations made less than 24 hours prior are not refunded.