There is always something truly magical about seeing some of the old military forts of Texas transformed into museums. Looking the same on the outside as they did back then, it is almost anachronistic to see these old battlements lit up with phone cables, internet, bounce electricity texas services, or any other modern convenience however, thankfully, these do little to take away from the histories and legacies of these fantastic structures. If you have ever had an interest in these structures or are looking for some hotspots for your next family vacation, then stay tuned – I have compiled a list of 5 military museums you simply cannot pass up during your trip to the Lone Star State.

1. Alamo Mission
Relive the battle that changed the face of the nation as you set foot into this historical monument.

2. National Museum of the Pacific War
Dedicated to Fleet Admiral Chester W. Nimitz, this museum is devoted to remembering the exploits of the US Pacific Fleet during World War II.

3. Cavanaugh Flight Museum
Learn how aviation changed and evolved over the course of history.

4. Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park
Containing several cannon set-ups and recreated war relics, one cannot help but feel like they have stepped back in time to the early days of the Mexican-American War.

5. Silent Wings Museum
Dedicated to the brave pilots who flew recon during World War II on non-powered gliders.

The Battle of San Jacinto changed the course of Texan history forever. During the 1820-s after Mexico began to encourage settlement into the sparsely populated territory of Texas. Stephen F. Austin led a large number of new American settlers into Texas eventually settling along the Brazos River. Quickly the number of American settlers outnumbered the Mexican settlers leading to tensions in the region. The Mexican government attempted to control the inflow of Americans but to no avail. In March of 1836 Texas declared itself independent of Mexican rule.

On April 21, 1836 the eighteen minute surprise attack of Texain Read the rest of this entry »

Situated on the corner of Broadway and 14th Street in Galveston, the castle-like towers and Victorian detailing of the Bishop-s Palace are difficult to miss. This historic structure, built for railroad and steel baron Walter Gresham between 1887 and 1892, is an impressive monument to late 19th century decadence and wealth. Though the ornate stone and wrought iron ornamentation that cover the exterior of the house are note-worthy by themselves, the hour-long tour that takes you through much of the interior of the house is well worth Read the rest of this entry »

Everyone remembers hearing about how in history, there were plantations. In Texas, you can experience what it would be like if you were here many years ago. At Varner-Hogg Plantation, you can experience plantation life at its best. Let us give you an idea about all the things you can do and give you a bit of its history.

This plantation was owned by three different men. They were Martin Varner, Columbus Patton, and James S. Hogg. They did a lot of things on this plantation from drilling oil to raising sugarcane. This was then donated to the state in 1957 Read the rest of this entry »

From the 17th to the 19th century Spanish missionaries attempted to spread Catholicism and convert the locals living in the American Southwest. These missionaries developed religious outposts in what is currently the San Antonio area of Texas. The frontier missions not only sought to spread the word of God, but were established as a network of colonial stations along the San Antonio River.

Today, the San Antonio Missions National Park is opened to visitors who are curious about this Read the rest of this entry »