Dallas realtors are promoting Winnsboro, Texas, as a prime destination for relocating or buying a second home. Candy’s Dirt real estate news team writes about desirable properties in Northeast Texas for people who want to move to a more relaxing rural area while enjoying modern amenities. The charming town of Winnsboro is noted as a winning move whether in town or country, or at one of the nearby lakes or gated communities.

Freelance contributor Daniel Lalley says in a recent article, “Winnsboro is quickly turning from one of Texas’ best-kept secrets into one of the most sought-after places to settle down. Situated in East Texas, this historic town is a haven for the arts, outdoors, and cultural events. Here, an abundance of eastern white pines and enchanted live oaks set the backdrop for breathtaking views. The area also boasts an abundance of fishing lakes, beaches, and boating areas.

“Northeastern Texas is known for scenic vistas, exceptional nature, and rich culture,” Lalley continues. “Within this region, Winnsboro stands out as a sort of cultural hub. Here, artists, musicians, and free spirits assemble against a backdrop of beautiful bald cypress trees and Texas bayou country.”

Others agree.

“Many people refer to Winnsboro as the Austin of East Texas,” says Paul Sanders of Compass RE Texas. “The area has an incredibly vibrant music scene and serves as a cultural arts center.”

Winnsboro was one of the first state-designated Texas Cultural Arts Districts chosen by the Texas Commission for the Arts. The program supports communities with thriving cultural and artistic resources.

The town’s Cultural Arts District includes the Winnsboro Center for the Arts, whose goal is to bring educational programming, cultural experiences, and entertainment to the people of Winnsboro and surrounding Northeast Texas communities. The center is a vibrant venue that hosts concerts, theater productions, art exhibits, classes and workshops, and literary events. Its Bowery Stage has attracted well-known performers such as Peter Yarrow, Judy Collins, Kinky Friedman, Michael Martin Murphey, and Sara Hickman. Several theatrical performances take place each year on the stage as well.

The downtown area also features nine blocks of unique galleries, delightful restaurants, eclectic shops, and upscale boutiques.

Lalley says, “Winnsboro has become one of the hottest destinations for North Texans seeking second shelters. Just over two hours from Dallas, this destination allows city dwellers to escape to an East Texas environment that is both peaceful and pristine. Among acres of piney woods and placid fishing lakes, the pace of life is easy and energizing.”

Realtor Christine McKenny currently has a luxury resort home for sale on Lake Cypress Springs and notes Winnsboro as a big reason for moving to the area.

“Great restaurants are just minutes away,” she says. “In Winnsboro, there is Sinclair Market modeled after the former Royal Blue in Highland Park Village and housed in an old Sinclair gas station. You can grab a latte, a bottle of wine, or something delicious to eat. Winnsboro also has Z’s Main Street Eats & Treats, Pyke’s Pantry, and The Barrel House. Winnsboro’s Saturday Farmers Market was ranked among the best farmers markets in Texas. There is a thriving arts scene in The Bowery district downtown with live musical performances year-round, and you don’t want to miss the Winnsboro Art and Wine Festival each November.”

Other great places to visit in Winnsboro include Backstage Coffee & Wine Lounge, Haven’s Cafe, Taco Dive, Maria’s Tacqueria, Cypress Creek Southern Ales, Feed Lot Food Truck Park, Chatty Cathy’s Confections, Promised Land Bakery, Copper Leaf Spa, Modern Country Living, 5C Home Store, 2 Mac Ranch, Winnsboro Boot Company, Vanora Studio, Elm Street Apothecary, Clara Ida Frances, Wood County Antique Mall, The Edison Exchange Estate Jewelry, Main Street Antiques, and Finders Keepers. The town also has close to 30 outdoor murals created by local and visiting artists.

Learn more about Winnsboro on winnsboroonlineguide.com. Get more details about available real estate in and around Winnsboro on candysdirt.com and check out their Dallas Dirt podcast.