Dating from the very early 17th century, Cookstown is home to a weekly Saturday market selling a wide variety of goods in it's main street. Self catering Cookstown visitors flock to the annual Cookstown 100 motorcycle race in April.

Of historic interest is the 9th century Ardboe High Cross and Abbey (about 10 miles away), Beaghmore Stone circles and Tullyhogue Fort which was a significant ceremonial site for the ancient high kings of Ulster. Lissan House, just outside the town, was, until it's last inhabitant died in 2006, the oldest domestic dwelling in Ireland to be continuously inhabited by one family. Killymoon Castle is a mile and a half away and Drum Manor Forest Park about 5 miles away.