4.5The Alamo(19.6k reviews) - Book the timed entry online to avoid the lines Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
Established in 1718 as Mission San Antonio de Valero, for over 300 years the former mission now known as the Alamo has been a crossroads of history. Having existed under six flags of independent nations and served as a garrison for five different armies, the Alamo has a rich history and a heritage to inspire Texans and people around the world. Although the Alamo is best known as the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, all 300 years of Alamo history are vital to our story. Visitors can take a guided battlefield tour, rent a self-guided audio tour, walk through the historic Alamo Church and Long Barrack Museum, listen to a history talk given by an Alamo Interpreter, participate in living history demonstrations, watch a documentary on the history of the Alamo, and much more. Admission to the Alamo is free, but there is a charge for guided and audio tours.See more..
4.5Texas State Capitol(7.977 reviews) - Don't mess with Texas --- Big State Capitol for a Big State Sunday: 9:00 AM - 8:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings • Government Buildings
If it's in Texas, it must be bigger and better. That is the motto that architects followed with the Capitol Building in Austin. At one time, it was the tallest capitol building in the nation. Others might be taller now, but this is still a beautiful building that shows off many of the natural resources which are so prevalent in Texas, such as limestone and the landscapes.See more..
Home to cowboys in addition to historic hotels and western-style shopping.See more..
4.5Mission San Jose(3.466 reviews) - Beautiful and Historic - And on the VIA Missions Bus Route! Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • Missions
Founded in 1720, this Spanish frontier mission, the largest of the five San Antonio missions, is best known for its rose window. On Sundays, this Texas and U.S. National historic site offers a mariachi mass.See more..
The site includes the former Texas School Book Depository and Dealey Plaza, two of the sights forever associated with the assassination of John F. Kennedy.See more..
4.5The Driskill(1.848 reviews) - Historic hotel in a great location! Sunday: 12:00 AM - 11:59 PM Historic Sites • Architectural Buildings
Austin's original and iconic hotel features beautiful Romanesque architecture from the late 1800's. With a grand entrance into the opulent lobby, you will be transported to an historic era, with its marble floors, stained-glass dome, and corridors filled with museum-quality artwork. Head up the grand staircase to the most authentic Texas bar in downtown Austin, with daily live music and happy hour.See more..
4.51892 Bishop's Palace(1.347 reviews) - Quite a gem! A National Historical Landmark. Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
The Bishop's Palace (a.k.a. Gresham House) is a contributing building in the East End Historic District, a National Historic Landmark. The house is listed in the National Register of Historic Places at the national level of significance in the area of architecture. Architectural historians list the Bishop's Palace (Gresham House) as one of the most significant of Victorian residences in the country. It is owned and operated by Galveston Historical Foundation.See more..
4.5Fort Worth Botanic Garden(1.195 reviews) - Middle of April visit Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens
Enjoy all four season in the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. No matter the season there is always something spectacular to see, our most popular gardens are the Fuller, Rose, and Japanese. Guest also enjoy the Native Texas Boardwalk, Rock Springs, Four Season, and Back Yard Vegetable Garden. We recommend you bring comfortable shoes and bottled water.See more..
4.5Gruene Historic District(995 reviews) - the is a must do! Speciality & Gift Shops • Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas • Architectural Buildings • Ghost Towns
Originally settled over a century ago, Gruene is a snapshot of Texas culture and history come-to-life. With 15 walkable acres designated a National Historic District, visitors can shop, dine, and dance within the walls of the original township buildings. The ideal balance of preservation and progress, Gruene Historic District is a Texas travel industry darling for good reason. From tacos to onion rings, antiques to cowboy hats, and Americana music to blues, every doorway leads you to something unforgettable. Gruene is for people who love good music, fun times, and old things!See more..
4.5Fort Davis National Historic Site(801 reviews) - Well preserved late 1800s Western Fort with knowledgeable staff Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
A restored cavalry post that is open to the public.See more..
4.5King William Historic District(793 reviews) - Stayed in this area Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Historic Walking Areas
Settled by wealthy German merchants in the late 1800s, San Antonio's first suburb consists of 25 blocks of historic mansions set amid lovely landscaping.See more..
4.5Moody Mansion(778 reviews) - Beautiful Home Tour! Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
Restored to its turn of the century splendor, the 28,000 square-foot, four-story structure was completed in 1895. Today, our guests visit 20 rooms on a self-guided tour that depicts the home life of a powerful Texas family. The Moodys established one of the great American financial empires. Based on cotton, it grew to include banking, ranching, insurance and hotels. The mansion is one of the finest places to visit, a trip back in time. Touring the museum should definitely be on the top on the list for things to do on Historic Galveston Island. Tour Information: Self-guided Audio Tours: Children 6 & Under Free Self-guided audio tours from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. daily (last tickets sold at 4p.m.; house closes at 5 p.m.) Behind-the-scenes Tours: Exclusive docent-guided tours to areas not normally open to the public 4 p.m. Friday, Saturday and Sunday | limited size tours | reservations highly recommended Group Tours: Moody Mansion tour descriptions: Self-guided audio tours: Two audio tours allow you to set your own pace through the house and grounds. • The Moody Family tour features six members of the Moody family telling stories about their ancestors. This tour is also translated into Spanish. • Mary’s tour, appropriate for children and adults, is narrated by an actress portraying the late Mary Moody Northen as if she were guiding you through her home. Guided 25th Anniversary Tour: Behind-the-scenes tours celebrate the 25th anniversary of Moody Mansion’s restoration. A knowledgeable docent guides guests through areas not normally open to the public, describing Mary Moody Northen’s vision for preserving her home and sharing her collections. These tours are conducted at 4 p.m. on Friday, Saturday and Sunday. Tour size is limited; reservations are highly recommended.See more..
We made a LBJ historical visit that brought us to the parks in Stonewall and Johnson City and to the Library in Austin. It was a great trip. We were in town for Christmas lights and a tour of LBJ’s boyhood home. Not only were the parks and library fantastic, the Rangers went above and beyond. When my youngest left his stamp book in the visitor center in Stonewall, a Ranger texted a picture of it to a Ranger in Johnson City and when we stopped back in to that visitor center were able to arrange to get it back.See more..
5.0Top O'Hill Terrace(665 reviews) - "A Texas Historic Landmark / A Local Tourist Attraction" Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
"Known As Vegas Before Vegas" Decorative wrought iron gates flanked by native sandstone guard towers lend an aura of mystery of mystery and intrigue to the location of what was in the 1930s and 40s, a gambling ground rich and adventurous, mischievous,famous and infamous.See more..
5.0National Ranching Heritage Center(472 reviews) - For young and old; fascinating Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
Open daily from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except 1 to 5 p.m. on Sunday. Visitors should plan to visit the 19-acre historic park early enough to complete their outdoor tour by 4 p.m. The indoor galleries close at 5 p.m. It takes 45 to 90 minutes to see the 53 ranch structures in the historic park and walk the 1.5 mile pathway. The outdoor park is both wheelchair and stroller accessible. Admission is free.See more..
4.5Pioneer Museum(386 reviews) - Worth a visit Sunday: Spent < 1 hour Speciality Museums • Historic Sites • History Museums
Enjoy a self-guided tour of our grounds and glimpse into the daily lives of the German pioneers of the Texas Hill Country. Our 3.5 acre grounds, located in downtown Fredericksburg, feature historic homesteads and buildings donated by founding families of Gillespie County. Among the historic homesteads and buildings are: one-room schoolhouse, log cabin, Sunday house, blacksmith shop, bath house, barn, smokehouse. Each showcases artifacts and architecture which help to preserve and tell the story of these pioneers. Also, browse through our fire department museum which displays pieces of early 20th century firefighting equipment.See more..
4.0Historic Downtown Plano(329 reviews) - A lovely historic spot Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
The downtown area has a classic look to it with small shops, restaurants, a park with a gazebo, bandstands etc. It has an old world feel but then also has newer buildings surrounding it. Centrally located off the community rail, this is definitely a great spot to visit!See more..
4.5Hueco Tanks State Historic Site(301 reviews) - Pictographs and Unique Rocks Historic Sites • State Parks • Geologic Formations
Spanning more than 860 acres, this park is named for the large rock basins or "huecos" that have supplied water to this desert-like region for many centuries.See more..
4.5Fort Concho(268 reviews) - Doncha pass up Fort Concho Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
The post- Civil War Army gets few words in the history books but this West Texas gem illustrates it vividly. Active from 1867-89, Concho was an outpost for quelling the natives and, in terrific boredom and low morale, keeping a presence at the eastern edge of the Pecos Military District. Museum guide Sara is a talent. See more..
4.5Quinta Mazatlan(234 reviews) - Nice sanctuary in the middle of the city Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites
Quinta Mazatlan is a historical Adobe mansion and nature and birding center located in McAllen, Texas. Our MissionThe urban sanctuary works to enrich people's lives by sharing knowledge about birds, plants, and environmental stewardship in South Texas.Our VisionQuinta Mazatlan, cherished locally and recognized internationally, is a sanctuary connecting people to the history, beauty and wonder of our natural world.See more..
4.5Presidio La Bahia(228 reviews) - Worth the trip to see this. Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
Spanish fort built in 1749 and the site of a famous massacre.See more..
4.5Log Cabin Village(206 reviews) - Life Long Ago Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
Today, each of the historic structures, furnished with authentic artifacts, provides a vivid look at life in the nineteenth century North Texas frontier. Each log house displays different aspect of pioneer life. The exhibits include a water-powered gristmill, a one-room schoolhouse, a blacksmith shop, an herb garden, and several log home settings. Historical interpreters, who are City of Fort Worth staff and volunteers, depict the lifestyle of the people who lived and settled the area in the mid to late 1800s.See more..
Washington on the Brazos State Historic Site is the lush, 293 acre park where the Texas Declaration of Independence was signed in 1836, creating a new nation. Independence Hall, a re-creation of the drafty building where the 59 delegates met to hammer out the document, stands on the original cornerstones. The Star of the Republic Museum tells the story of the decade that Texas was a sovereign nation. Barrington Living History Farm includes the homestead of Texas' final president, Anson Jones, and is a working cotton farm. The vistor's center houses a unique gift shop and a Texas History timeline. Picnic areas are available along the Brazos River.See more..
We stopped here as a planned stop on a long road trip. Interesting tour of the home, and nice displays in the Visitor Center. The house tour was about 20-30 minutes and really a great presentation by the NPS ranger. We love history.See more..
4.5Bonfire Memorial(183 reviews) - Powerful and humbling memorial Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks • Monuments & Statues • Scenic Walking Areas
What a well thought out memorial with each detail representing the tradition, loss of life and spirit of the Aggie pride. The free booklet offered in the parking lot gives an overview of the history behind the bonfires and describes each detail of the memorial. We spent approximately an hour reading the plaques and paying our respects. There are roughly 10 free parking spaces at the entrance of the memorial. If you, like us, get turned around due to construction just keep driving towards the very large white wall that is the entrance (behind lot 51.) See more..
5.0The Grove(166 reviews) - Wonderful, historic home full of love and ghost stories Historic Sites • Ghost Towns
A one-hour tour of one of Jefferson's most historic - and haunted - locations. The Grove is an 1861 home that uniquely mirrors the history of the riverport city... and the ghost stories there go back over 100 years. The history of the home is fascinating; it is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and is a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. Along with the history, though, you'll hear ghost stories from the owners and find out just what it's like to live in a haunted home. Come visit The Grove for a peek into Jefferson's past... and a few residents who may still be hanging around!See more..
Located in the heart of Denison, Eisenhower Birthplace State Historic Site showcases the home where the 34th U.S. President Dwight David "Ike" Eisenhower was born in 1890. Antique furnishings fill the modest frame house, illustrating the working class life of the Eisenhowers. The visitors center celebrates Ike with memorabilia and exhibits featuring his many accomplishments as president and war hero.See more..
4.5El Paso Mission Trail(154 reviews) - One of the top things to do when visiting Sunday: Spent 2-3 hours Art Galleries • Historic Sites • Religious Sites
Mission Valley Visitor Center. 9065 Alameda EL Paso, Texas 79907 Official Mission Trial Facebook: EL Paso Mission Trial Association. EVENTS: APRIL : Birth of the American Southwest! THANKGIVING 1598 OCTOBER: LA CUEVA THEATRE 10180 SOCORRO ROAD DANZAS ESPANOLASSee more..
4.0Stonehenge Replica(147 reviews) - Fun site for kids and adults. Good photo op. Historic Sites • Ancient Ruins
Fun stop for kids and adults. Unlike the real Stonehenge you can walk all around inside this full size replica. Kids had fun climbing up on slabs and running around playing tag. While we were there many other groups stopped in to see it as well; quite a popular site to take in. Free with nearby parking.See more..
4.5Fort Phantom Hill(125 reviews) - A look in the past Historic Sites
I had passed this Fort many times and chose to stop. It was a decision I will never forget. I was, and still am, absolutely mesmerized at the standing structures. While most of the vegetation was dried and desolate, except few spots of green, the inside of the commissary was mostly green and soft. Stunning all the way around!See more..
4.0Chamizal National Memorial(120 reviews) - Awesome 50+ Acre Historic Memorial of a Dispute Between Mexico and the United Sunday: 5:00 AM - 10:00 PM Historic Sites • National Parks • History Museums
First, the Memorial is bounded by East Paisano Dr., Delta Dr. and San Marcial St. In 1911 Mexico and the US had an arbitration over a piece of land that was cut by the Rio Grande River and floated from the river's Mexican side to the U.S. side. Mexico was awarded the parcel by the arbitrators but the U.S. refused to honor the award for 52 years. These beautiful grounds and a great National Park Service building with a picture history, a museum and picnic area showcase the Chamizal's history. Phenomenal Park Rangers, knowledgeable and extremely nice and fun. Nice gift shop. Bring your camera, picnic and ability to have fun!!!See more..
The building at the entrance had a lot of great history shared in an engaging way. This history is one I did not previously know of and enjoyed learning about. We went on a hot day so we appreciated that they provided a cooler with water before you begin your trek out across the property. The main house, memorial, and smokehouse were all very interesting and I'm glad they've maintained land rights to enough space that you don't hear modern city life as you walk around the property. We did not walk all the way down to the brewery ruins, but the overlook makes it so you can still see them without needing to. On a cooler day (and if we'd had more time) we probably would have gone down. This place offers a lot of great options for photography as well.See more..
Millard's Crossing Historic Village, Inc. is a locally-managed non-profit 501(c)3 historic site that portrays the spirit and ingenuity of pioneer settlement in East Texas. Open seven days a week, we strive to create a greater awareness, understanding, and appreciation of the region's pioneer and agricultural heritage for East Texans as well as others beyond the region. We welcome individuals, families, schools, and large tour groups. Come have fun in the past!See more..
4.5Famous Mineral Water Company(106 reviews) - so so Sunday: Spent < 1 hour Speciality & Gift Shops • Historic Sites
Mineral Wells was know for many years as the South's Greatest Health Resort and the city "Where America drinks its way to Health." The Famous Mineral Water Company was established in 1904 by Ed Dismuke. The Famous continues to bottle the waters that brought health seekers to Mineral Wells a century ago. The historic Crazy Water mineral water is now only available through the Famous Mineral Water Company.See more..
4.5Taylor County History Center(104 reviews) - Surprisingly Nice Sunday: Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • History Museums
The Taylor County History Center, previously the Buffalo Gap Historic Village, located in Buffalo Gap, Texas, tells the story of the last fifty years of the West Texas frontier. Through interactive exhibits, educational programming, and historic interpretation, guests experience the formative years when the region changed from the Wild West to civilized settlements. The iconic structure of the Village, the original Taylor County Courthouse, represents the presence of justice on the once untamed frontier. The collection includes over fifteen historic structures from the region and over 10,000 artifacts representing the material culture of West Texas.See more..
4.5George W. Bush Childhood Home(95 reviews) - Closed but definitely worth a Drive By Sunday: 2:00 PM - 5:00 PM Historic Sites
The George W. Bush Childhood Home is truly a unique place in American history. Home to two Presidents, two Governors and a First Lady, this remarkable 1950s restoration gives visitors a unique perspective of the Bush family and their legacy, insight into the restoration of this modest home and provides an interesting view of life in 1950s Midland.See more..
A striking adobe structure, the Magoffin Home State Historic Site explores the stories of a multicultural family who actively participated in U.S. expansion and settlement, military service, and U.S.-Mexico relations. The home, built around 1875 by Joseph Magoffin, is a prime example of Territorial style architecture and features a center courtyard and peaceful landscape. Explore the home's authentic art and furnishings reflecting the daily lives of this prominent El Paso family.See more..
I just love the Texas State Park system! I got a "two-fer" here because I also like visiting old western forts. They never look like the ones in a John Wayne movie. Always more open and larger than expected. As with most of them, the majority of the buildings are no longer around. But you definitely get a feel for the scale of things and the various maps really help. The icing on the cake here is that they did an incredible job restoring the hospital and filling it with things that make you feel like you were there.See more..
4.0Fort Parker State Park(82 reviews) - Small park with Shady Campsites Sunday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Historic Sites • State Parks • Military Bases & Facilities
A great camping spot with a nice lake in the middle of the park.See more..
4.5Sophienburg Museum(70 reviews) - Worth A Stop Sunday: Spent 1-2 hours Historic Sites • History Museums
Every story has a beginning and the saga of New Braunfels starts here! Take a journey to Texas with Prince Carl and his group of German colonists as they cross the ocean to establish a new colony at the edge of Indian Territory. Live their dream of freedom, adventure and prosperity. Exhibits rich in local artifacts, photographic images, maps and documents take visitors through the history and cultural heritage of New Braunfels and Comal County. The archives is one of the largest repositories of information chronicling the German immigration movement to Texas. The collection includes more than a million photographic images, newspapers, oral history recordings, government and church records, and genealogical information. Sophie's Shop, the museum store, carries the best in German collectibles, including nutcrackers, smokers, and Inge-Glas ornaments, as well as, books on New Braunfels, Texas, and regional history. Find New Braunfels souvenir t-shirts and decor to remember your trip.See more..
4.0San Jacinto Plaza(68 reviews) - La placita de los Gartos. Spent < 1 hour Historic Sites • Parks
In the middle of the plaza, is a beautiful water fountain with an alligator statue. It commemorates when the Plaza had real alligators in the 1960s. The plaza is beautiful and surrounded by the old buildings now being revitalized, some built by Trost. Take your time...go back in time....ride the trolleys brought back to El Paso from the 40's. See more..
Built circa 1830 by Adolphus Stern, a prominent leader in the fight for Texas Independence. Free Admission. Hours: Tues-Sat 10 a.m.-4 p.m.See more..
4.5Hanging Tree(66 reviews) - Majestic and eery at the same time. Historic Sites
If this tree could talk...Could you imagine all the things she would tell us about TX history? To be honest though, she's only a tree. Beautiful to have in front of the court house. They do have other tress all around the court house, but this one is the big one.See more..
Original buildings remian in this frontier fort turned into a resort.See more..
3.5Camp Ford(63 reviews) - Civil war in Texas. Sunday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Historic Sites
I visited here on June 12th, 2021 around 1 pm. It was super hot. I walked around the camp. I really enjoyed the shades in the forest. There were a lot of things to read in the forest.If you are interested in the CIvil Wat, you may like here.See more..
Fort Chadbourne is a frontier military fort established in 1852. It was officially abandoned in 1867 when they ran out of water and supplies. Samuel and Mary Maverick owned the fort site and leased it to the military. Garland Richard's family purchased the fort site from the Mavericks in 1877 and they have been here for 8 generations. A nonprofit organization was formed to protect, preserve and present the historic site of Fort Chadbourne to the public. When you visit Fort Chadbourne you will walk thru a 12,500 sq ft visitor center/museum. We then take you to see the actual Fort buildings. All the buildings have been stabilized and a few buildings have been restored. We love showing Fort Chadbourne so gather up and friends and family to visit.See more..
4.0Old Fort Parker(54 reviews) - Hands on History Historic Sites
A must see for any Texas history, frontier, or Native American history enthusiast. Be sure to read "Empire of the Summer Moon" or similar frontier memoir prior to visiting, so you'll be able to fully appreciate the people and events that made this place famous. The fort has been rebuilt, but every attempt was made to make the current structure identical to the original. This is a very affordable stop, just a couple of dollars to enter and tour the fort. They host lots of events too, so be sure and check their calendar.See more..
5.0The House of the Seasons(53 reviews) - What a way to celebrate the Nee year! Historic Sites • Points of Interest & Landmarks
The Epperson suite was private and perfect, the grounds are impeccable (even in the winter), and the main house was fascinating. However, the best part of our stay was ...Shirley! She is such a pleasure to visit with, an amazing cook, and you leave thinking you have made a new life-long friend. Highly recommendSee more..
4.0Fort Leaton(51 reviews) - A little Histoy never hurt anyone! Historic Sites
Fort Leaton was established in 1848 and is named after former Indian bounty hunter Benjamin Leaton. It is one of the largest and best preserved adobe structures in Texas and definitely worth a visit. Well, if you like History! Guided Tours on the weekend, and self guided walking tours otherwise. Nice little gift shop. Expect to spend about one hour. There is a fee.See more..
