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Standing atop Eaton Hill Wildlife Sanctuary, you can look out over the charming
town of Sonora resting where the Chihuahua Desert meets the Hill Country. “The Hill”,
a 37-acre haven for the area’s wildlife, has become a favorite hiking spot for locals
and visitors alike. Throughout the year Eaton Hill serves as a reminder of the nature
of change. Its transformation during each season embodies the dynamic spirit of
the vibrant West Texas town in which it sits.
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Visitors to Sonora find a community energetically moving forward while embracing
their historic past. A stroll through downtown reveals the hard work of residents
working to restore the area. For example, through the Texas Main Street Program
they were able to create hidden gems like the award-winning Bank Vault Park. Visitors
will also see a number of historic sites, such as the Sutton County Courthouse and
the site of the original Town Well, both sitting at the head of Main Street. A collection
of historical markers placed at the front of the courthouse lawn provides a history
of the sites.
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Sonora’s attractions move beyond the historic downtown area as well. The town has
a number of outdoor activities available. In addition to the Eaton Hill Wildlife
Sanctuary, the town boasts a 9-Hole golf course recognized as one of the best in
Texas. You can also tour the Caverns of Sonora located west of town. This National
Natural Landmark is a beautiful site not to be missed on your way across the Pecos
region.
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After a day of seeing the sites, a trip to any of the local restaurants will find
a good conversation and tasty cuisine. The community has several locally owned restaurants
as well as a few familiar fast food chains. In addition to restaurants, Sonora offers
accommodations ranging from campgrounds to hotels and ranch retreats. Sonora is
a good spot for a weekend getaway or an overnight stop. Visitor information is available
at the Sonora Chamber of Commerce & Welcome Center.
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Eaton Hill Wildlife Sanctuary
Eaton Hill Wildlife Sanctuary provides a unique and educational West Texas outdoor
experience. With a trail system covering approximately three miles, visitors can
enjoy hiking, bird watching, Texas wildflowers, wildlife, butterflies, fossil displays,
replicas of Native American culture, guided tours, solitude, and discovery. Open
daily. 325-387-2615
Sutton County Courthouse
The beautiful stone courthouse, designed by famed architect, Oscar Ruffini, represented
frontier law and order. The Sutton County Courthouse was restored to its original
splendor during recent years and was awarded Best Restoration Project 2002 by the
Texas Downtown Association.
Historic Downtown Sonora
The downtown area contains numerous historical sites all within walking distance
of each other. Travelers can visit museums, local shops, and even stop by the newly
restored Mercantile Building to enjoy a delicious lunch. For more information on
the walking tour, visit www.friendsofsonora.org.
Sonora Golf Club
The Sonora Golf Club is a wonderful nine-hole golf course that has been awarded
the “Best Nine-Hole Golf Course” in Texas. The challenging course is a great way
to enjoy the surrounding West Texas scenery. Open to the public. 325-387-3680
Caverns of Sonora
The Caverns of Sonora are located 8 miles west of Sonora, Texas, off of IH-10 on
exit 392. Come experience the beauty that west Texas has to offer. At the Caverns
of Sonora, there are many activities to keep you busy, such as: sluicing for gems,
exploring the nature trail, camping out in an RV or tent, and relaxing while enjoying
the outdoors. 325-387-3105
Sutton County Days & Outlaw Pro Rodeo
Sutton County Days & Outlaw Pro Rodeo is the largest festival held in Sonora each
year. It is a three-day event held every August featuring rodeo performances, arts
and crafts booths and live entertainment. This annual event attracts hundreds of
tourists from all over Texas. 325-387-2880
Sutton County Game Dinner
Sonora plays host to one of the oldest game dinners in the State of Texas. The Game
Dinner offers local cooks a chance to showcase their cooking talents by serving
up a wide variety of native and exotic game. Visitors also have a chance to win
an assortment of incredible door prizes. 325-387-2880