victoria texas places to visit

15 Best Things to do in Victoria, Texas

Victoria, Texas is a city located in Victoria County in the Lone Star State.

As you journey down to Victoria you will be embraced by its small town charm and treated with its vibrant culture.

Whether it’s biking around Riverside Park, visiting the museums or walking through historic downtown district, there is something for everyone to enjoy!

Victoria, Texas makes a great day trip from Houston or San Antonio .

Here is a detailed guide to visiting Victoria, Texas.

Also Read: 14 Best Beach Towns in Texas

Things to do in Victoria, TX

Located in Southeast Texas, Victoria is known for its historic downtown buildings like the Victoria County Courthouse and DeLeon Plaza.

It is also popular for its attractions such as The Texas Zoo, Riverside Park, and Museum of the Coastal Bend.

It’s also a great destination if you’re looking to explore nature.

Here are the best things to do in Victoria, Texas now.

Admire the Victoria County Courthouse

The Victoria County Courthouse is a stunning Romanesque Revival-style building located in the heart of downtown.

Built in 1892, this limestone courthouse is one of the oldest and most beautiful structures in Victoria.

The Courthouse is located at 101 N Bridge St, Victoria, TX 77901.

Take a stroll around DeLeon Main Plaza

You will find this attraction located just a few blocks away from the Courthouse.

DeLeon Plaza is a great place to take a relaxing walk and enjoy some of the city’s most beautiful scenery.

The plaza features historic monuments, such as the statue of General de Leon, who originally founded Victoria in 1824.

The plaza has several shady trees and a comforting fountain, making it the perfect spot to take a rest and admire the beauty of the city.

It also hosts many events and festivals throughout the year.

Step inside the Victoria Visitor Information Center

This center is located at 700 N Main St and is a great place to visit.

Here you can find brochures, maps and other information about Victoria’s attractions.

You will also get great tips on places to visit in and around the city, as well as events that are happening during your stay.

Learn and play at the Children’s Discovery Museum

The Children’s Discovery Museum is a great place to take the kids.

This museum has a wide range of interactive exhibits that are sure to keep the whole family entertained.

Popular activities include a play construction zone, play town featuring an ambulance, foam blocks, dinosaurs, legos, and more.

The museum also hosts a variety of fun camps for the kids.

See the animals at the Texas Zoo

The Texas Zoo is one of the most fun things to do in Victoria, Texas for families.

The zoo features over 250 different species of animals from around the world.

Some of the most popular exhibits include jaguars, bison, cheetahs, and cougars.

You can also take a tour of their aviary which houses several exotic birds.

Explore the galleries at the Museum of the Coastal Bend

The Museum of the Coastal Bend is a great place to learn about Texas history and culture.

The museum features multiple galleries that showcase artifacts from Native Americans who have inhabited the area for centuries, as well as exhibits on wildlife, nature, and more.

The museum is located at 2200 E Red River St, Victoria, TX.

See the artwork at Victoria Fine Arts Center

The Victoria Fine Arts Center is a great place to admire the work of local artists.

The center features several galleries showcasing diverse art from both amateur and established artists.

In addition, you can also take part in workshops and classes that are open to all ages.

Admire the fine arts at the Nave Museum

The Nave Museum is a hidden gem in Victoria, TX.

This museum features a variety of permanent and rotating exhibitions focusing on fine arts, crafts, and sculpture.

It’s a great place to get creative and learn something new.

Stroll through the Victoria Educational Gardens

The Victoria Educational Gardens is a beautiful park located just outside of the downtown area.

This park features several gardens and trails that are perfect for a relaxing walk or an outdoor picnic.

You can explore the butterfly garden, an arbor, roses, and more at the garden!

Enjoy a lovely meal at the PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar

The PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar is one of the best places to get a delicious meal in Victoria.

This restaurant is located in the historic pumphouse building, has incredible views of the river, and serves up a variety of delicious dishes.

It’s a great place to relax after a long day exploring the city.

Try the seafood at Grumpys

Grumpys Seafood is a local favorite.

This restaurant serves up fresh seafood dishes like fried shrimp, oysters, and fish tacos that will make your mouth water!

They also have a variety of other dishes, so there’s something for everyone.

Spend a day at Coleto Creek Park

Coleto Creek Park is one of the most popular spots in Victoria, TX.

This park is located on the edge of Coleto Creek Reservoir and features several activities like fishing, swimming, boating, biking, and more.

The park also has camping sites if you’re looking to stay a while!

Launch a kayak at the Riverside Park boat ramp

Riverside Park is the perfect spot to launch a kayak or canoe.

This park has plenty of trees and benches, as well as access to the Guadalupe River where you can paddle around and explore.

It’s a great way to spend some time outdoors admiring nature.

Riverside Park also has a disc golf course that is popular with families.

Learn skating at the Victoria Skate Park

Get some exercise and learn to skateboard at the Victoria Skate Park.

This park features a variety of ramps and obstacles perfect for beginner or experienced skaters.

Make sure to bring your own board and protective gear, then you’re ready to hit the park!

Take a day trip to Corpus Christi

If you’re looking for a day trip, why not head to nearby Corpus Christi?

This coastal city is known for its sandy beaches and crystal clear waters.

You can spend the day swimming in the ocean, exploring museums, or visiting attractions like the USS Lexington and Texas State Aquarium.

Located in southeastern Texas between Houston and San Antonio, Victoria is the perfect stop on a road trip.

Victoria has something special for every visitor, whether you’re looking to explore its iconic downtown area or take advantage of its vibrant culture and colorful history.

However you choose to explore it, Victoria promises an unforgettable visit full of new experiences!

What are your favorite things to do in Victoria, Texas? Let us know below.

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7 Fun Things to Do in Victoria, TX (By a Local!)

Looking for the best things to do in Victoria, TX?

Located a short 30 miles from the Gulf of Mexico, and a brief 2-hour drive from major cities like San Antonio, Austin, Houston, and Corpus Christi lies the small city of Victoria.

Known to many as the “crossroads city” due to the overlapping major highways that surround it, Victoria has become home to many folks passing through on those same roads.

Next time you’re in the area and before you pass on through, check out these fun Victoria activities and attractions that are a draw for so many.

Some links in this post may be affiliate links. If you make a purchase through one of these links, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you. Please see our disclosure policy for more detail.

The Best Things to Do in Victoria, TX

Immerse yourself in victoria’s art scene at the nave museum..

Exploring The Nave Museum is one of the absolute best things to do in Victoria, Texas!

The museum is located in the center of town and has been providing “the crossroads city” access to beautiful works of art since 1932.

The building itself, designed by well-known San Antonio architect Atlee Ayers, looks like a work of art as it was built to resemble an ancient Greek colonnade.

The museum showcases up to 10 exhibits per year and includes works from the national, regional, and local levels.

Here you’ll find a diverse array of mediums ranging from sculptures to paintings and even quilt work.

And while the exhibits rotate out frequently, visitors still have the opportunity to admire the museum’s permanent exhibits.

The majority of the permanent artwork comes from the museum’s namesake, Royston Nave, a prolific artist for his time.

In his collection, you’ll find bold and detailed portraiture, thoughtful sketches and still life, and bold landscapes.

And if you have little ones in your group, be sure to stop by on Saturday mornings where the Nave museum hosts art classes for children.

Feeling a little artistic yourself? The Nave Museum is constantly reviewing portfolios to add to one of its rotating exhibits.

Feel free to submit your work and have it reviewed by some of the top experts in the country.

Try your hand at a new sport at Riverside Park.

Riverside Park has so many activities packed into one area, you’ll have to see it to believe it.

Covering over 660 acres of woodland, there’s something for everyone in this centrally located oasis of fun, but these are the top attractions in Victoria’s Riverside Park.

Got a sports fan in your group? Check out the practice baseball fields located near the entrance to the park.

You’ll find these fields consistently and carefully maintained throughout the year and provide a space for ballplayers of all ages to practice their sport.

The largest of these is Lowe Field, and it can be reserved for games ahead of time.

If baseball’s not your game, how about disc golf (or even regular golf, for that matter)?

Riverside Park is home to a beautiful 18 hole golf course and a 20 hole disc golf course that weaves in and out the entire park.

Holes range in difficulty from novice to expert and you’ll even get the opportunity to take in the sites of the exquisite Guadalupe River as you move through the course.

… or spend an afternoon canoeing the river.

Speaking of the river in Riverside Park, why not consider hopping in?

Well, hopping into a canoe, that is.

There are 4 spots throughout the park to grab a canoe and travel down the 25 miles long Victoria Paddling Trail.

Because this is a slow-moving river, there’s abundant time to take in the local plants and wildlife.

Hit the water at Coleto Creek Park and Reservoir, one of the best Victoria attractions.

Just outside the city of Victoria is the Coleto Creek Park and Reservoir.

This beautiful body of water happens to be a historic landmark as well, when in 1836 the Texas Revolutionary forces led by James Fannin were defeated by the Mexican army, in what became known as the Battle of Coleto.

While you won’t find any revolutionary battles being fought here, you will find plenty of water to accommodate all of your aquatic activities.

The park has a four-lane boat ramp for you and your friends to drop in and begin to beat that infamous Texas heat.

While on the water you can participate in water skiing, wakeboarding, and jet skiing.

And for the anglers, Coleto Creek Park boasts a 200-foot fishing pier.

The fish predominantly found in the creek are large and white mouth bass, multiple species of catfish, and sunfish.

And don’t worry, the pier is lighted after dark, just in case it happens to take you a little bit longer than expected to catch your dinner.

If you do end up staying out longer than expected, the park offers almost 80 multi-use campsites, five cabins, and plenty of space for those that would rather set up tents in the woods and under the stars.

Additional attractions to the park include volleyball and basketball courts, nature trails with two stops for photography and bird watching.

Got a big event coming up? Check out the large covered pavilions in the center of the park that are available to rent for special occasions.

Brush up on your Texas history at De Leon Plaza and Pavillion.

Victoria is well known for having many historical markers and sites for such a small city.

One of the most visited is De Leon Plaza and Pavillion.

Located in the heart of downtown, this was the original site of the colony of Victoria founder, Don Martin De Leon in 1824.

You’ll find a plaque at the entrance to the plaza providing a few more details on the settlement of Martin’s colony and the history of his family. 

At the center of the park, you’ll find a gazebo, whose original structure was built for musicians to perform in the early 1870s.

Of course, it’s had renovations over time, but it’s still used as a stage during any of the park’s events.

Along the park’s charming sidewalks you’ll find park benches where you can sit and enjoy the abundance of shade provided by the towering live oaks.

And you might want to keep that seat for one of Victoria’s community get-togethers.

De Leon Plaza is home to many of the city’s local events, like Bootfest.

Bootfest is a free event that offers live music, shopping for (you guessed it) boots, and games and rides for the kids.

Live life on the wild side at the Texas Zoo.

Before you leave Riverside Park, be sure to check out Victoria’s Texas Zoo .

The zoo opened in 1957, with only a donated lion to its credit.

Now, housing over 100 different species, the Texas Zoo offers a unique experience for animal lovers of all ages.

Part of the draw to the zoo is that the majority of the animals it houses are native to the state of Texas, many of them on the endangered species list.

The zoo makes every effort to ensure that the animals are living in conditions that are as close as possible to their native environment.

These include red and grey wolves, black bears, whooping cranes, and the San Marcos salamander.

Onsite you’ll also find a super cool reptile and amphibian house that provides sanctuary for 35 of Texas’ native species.

One of the main focuses of the zoo is education, and they provide a wide variety of offerings.

These include day camps, field trips, and community outreach events where wildlife is brought to events to educate and promote their conservation efforts.

And for the adults, the zoo offers exciting experiences like yoga in the zoo, and wine tasting and painting fundraisers.

Explore historic architecture at the Victoria County Courthouse.

While you’re in the heart of downtown you’ll have the opportunity to visit another historic landmark, the 1892 Victoria County Courthouse.

The original courthouse was built in 1824, but as time passed, there have been several iterations of the building, and its current state is the most well known.

The building may look familiar to you if you’ve ever visited Gonzales or La Grange and that’s because all three of the buildings were designed by the same architect, James Riely Gordon.

Riley became well known for his designs because they had all been built with one thing in mind: keeping the air circulating during the stifling summers that are typical for this part of Texas.

This open central air shaft design and the soaring towers that jutted into the Victoria skyline soon became one of the most cherished buildings of the city.

Once inside the courthouse, hit up the visitor’s center and sign up for a tour of the building and its grounds.

Maybe you’ll even get the opportunity to hear the grand clock tower chime when exploring the best things to do in Victoria, Texas!

Where is Victoria, Texas?

Victoria, Texas is located in the southeast part of the Lone Star State, not far from the coast.

It’s about 2 hours (125 miles) southwest of Houston, a little over 2 hours (118 miles) southeast of San Antonio, and 1.5 hours (87 miles) north of Corpus Christi.

If you’re driving down to the beach from one of Texas’ major cities, the best things to do in Victoria, TX can easily be combined with a trip to Port Aransas , Rockport , or Corpus Christi .

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Top Things to Do in Victoria, TX

Places to visit in victoria.

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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art

2. Riverside Park

3. The Texas Zoo

4. The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse

5. Victoria Fine Arts Center

6. Museum of the Coastal Bend

7. Victoria Visitor Information Center

8. Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir

9. Victoria Paddling Trail

10. Children's Discovery Museum

11. Lorenzo Dow Heaton House

12. Evergreen Cemetery

13. Lone Tree Creek Splashpad

14. Victoria Skate Park

15. Riverside Stadium

16. Indianola Ghost Town

17. Deleon Plaza

18. Old Nazareth Academy

19. Nave Museum

20. public archeology laboratory.

21. Victoria Farmers' Market

22. Temple B'nai Israel

23. andustoria wines, 24. arts etc, 25. martin luther king, jr. park, 26. patriot park, 27. art & coins shop, 28. del papa distributing, 29. fossati park, 30. pine street park, what travellers are saying.

• Riverside Park
• The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse
• The Texas Zoo
• Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir
• Indianola Ghost Town
• Victoria Paddling Trail
• Lone Tree Creek Splashpad

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18 Reasons To Fall In Love With Historic Victoria, Texas

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• United States

Southeast of San Antonio, centered between Houston and Corpus Christi and just a stone’s throw from the Gulf, you’ll discover the charming little town of Victoria. Laced with historic architecture, a diverse culture, and tasty food, Victoria celebrates plenty of festivals and hosts a wealth of local shopping to keep you busy.

Martin de Leon founded the town in 1824 when he settled 41 Mexican families here. De Leon named the town Guadalupe Victoria, honoring the Republic of Mexico’s first president (not the Queen of England.) After Texas gained independence, citizens renamed the settlement Victoria, and it’s one of the oldest towns in Texas.

1. Explore Victoria Visitors Center

Make the Victoria Visitors Center your first stop to pick up the Explore brochure and visitors guide. Get local advice and all your questions answered by the friendly, knowledgeable staff.

Pro Tip: While you are learning about Victoria’s history, take selfies at three locations that you visit, post them, and earn a free “I Explored Victoria” t-shirt . Click for details.

2. The Old Victoria Driving Tour

I could spend all day looking at historic homes. The Old Victoria Driving Tour is a self-guided excursion through Victoria’s landmark neighborhoods featuring over 115 properties listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Pick up the brochure and map at the Visitor Center.

Philip Arno Photography / Shutterstock

3. Victoria County Courthouse

The stunning 1892 Victoria County Courthouse , constructed of Texas granite and Indiana limestone, fits the part with Romanesque Revival architecture by J. Riely Gordon. The 2001 restored courthouse appears on several lists as one of Texas’s most beautiful courthouses.

4. Evergreen Cemetery

Another thing I love is exploring old cemeteries with antique gravestones. Evergreen Cemetery is home to many pioneers’ graves, including members of the founding de Leon family. Also buried here are veterans of the Texas Revolution, Mexican War, and Civil War. Researchers say Victoria may be one of the most haunted Texas cities.

Pro Tip: Don’t miss the Annual Cemetery Tour in April, where historians come from the grave and dress up as memorable characters buried in the cemetery.

Editor’s Note: If you, too, are captivated by cemeteries, don’t miss our picks for 6 Most Interesting Cemeteries To Visit In The U.S. and 7 Most Fascinating Cemeteries To Visit Around The World .

5. Museum Of The Coastal Bend

The Museum of the Coastal Bend displays 13,000 years of Texas history from the first inhabitants to the French, Spanish, and Mexican colonial settlements. You’ll see the Fort St. Louis exhibition, LaSalle’s small French village near Matagorda Bay. By 1687, Karankawas had killed or captured the last settlers, and LaSalle’s men had murdered him. See the eight cannons that defended the colony.

Thalia Perla / Shutterstock

6. Victoria Trail Through Time

Learn about the fascinating history of Victoria as you explore the Trail Through Time . Begin in 1725 with Presidio La Bahia ‘s settlement, a Spanish fort, and Mission Espiritu Santo , a beautifully restored Catholic mission along the Tejas National Historic Trail. Learn about Fannin and the Texas Revolution, with Victoria among the 23 counties established by the Republic of Texas on March 17, 1836.

7. Historic Homes Tour

An almost 40-year tradition, Victoria Preservation provides guided tours of various historic homes each spring, including craftsman-style bungalows and Victorian and Queen Anne landmark homes. Experience an exceptional opportunity to view the interiors of some of the most historic houses in Victoria.

8. Annual Festivals And Events

DeLeon Plaza downtown is a popular setting for festivals and special events.

Bootfest hosts some of Texas’ best country music artists, and it’s free. During the event, visit a car, truck, and motorcycle show, eat the best barbecue in Texas, run (or cheer on) a 5K, and watch fireworks.

Attend the annual Victoria Texas Independent Film Festival , VTXIFF, held annually for almost 10 years, drawing independent artists and filmmakers from all over the world. VTXIFF is rated one of the Top 50 Film Festivals by MovieMaker magazine .

Other annual events include the Riverside Bike Ride, Polo at McFaddin Ranch, Downtown Rhythms with the Victoria Symphony, Memorial Weekend Bash hosting the biggest Tejano music names, plus the Riverside Food Truck Fest. Or pencil in the Art Car Parade with the Five Points Museum, Czech Heritage Festival, Lighted Christmas Parade, Christmas on the Square, and The Nutcracker.

9. Victoria Educational Gardens

Victoria’s best-kept secrets, visit the Victoria Educational Gardens , created by Victoria’s Master Gardeners, across from the airport control tower. You’ll find 19 different gardens here, each with unique flowers and foliage. Find plants that survive and thrive in Texas weather including the Laura Bush petunia , New Gold Lantana , and other superstars. My grandchildren loved the Butterfly Haven featuring plants that attract butterflies, including blue plumbago , red bottlebrush , and firebush plants.

10. Leo J Welder Center For The Performing Arts

The Leo J Welder Center for the Performing Arts honors a prominent local rancher, businessman, and philanthropist who died in 1996. Dedicated to bringing the arts to downtown Victoria, the center has revitalized the historical district and improved its quality of life.

Every June, the Victoria Bach Festival features a mix of classical and contemporary music. Professional performances by the Victoria Ballet, Victoria Symphony, and Theatre Victoria are held in the venue.

11. Five Points Museum Of Contemporary Art

Three galleries comprise the Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art , founded by Ann Harithas. The main gallery, nicknamed The Fishbowl, features 22 windows looking out on the five-way Crossroads intersection. A perfect spot for art cars from the annual parade, videos, murals, and sculptures, the gallery was originally a 1940s Lincoln and Mercury Dealership.

12. Nave Museum

In Victoria’s oldest art museum , you’ll see six to eight art exhibits annually, ranging in styles from landscape to portraiture by famous artist Royston Nave (1886-1931) and other renowned area artists.

13. Riverside Park

This 600-acre woodland park offers hike and bike trails, the Memorial Rose Garden , Riverside Golf Course , a disc golf course, and more. The Athey Nature Sanctuary and trail boasts abundant birds and wildlife. Spend an afternoon kayaking on the Guadalupe River . You can find the Texas Zoo here, plus multiple playgrounds and sports fields.

14. Coleto Creek Park And Reservoir

Park your RV at Coleto Creek Park and Reservoir when you visit Victoria. Located halfway between Victoria and Goliad, Coleto Creek Park and Reservoir cover 3,100 acres with 61 miles of shoreline. The reservoir is fed through four major creeks and serves as a cooling pond for the coal-fired power plant. The park offers camping with hook-ups, cabins, and primitive camping. You’ll enjoy picnic areas with picnic tables, pavilions, grills, a swimming area, a sandy beach, and sand volleyball courts. Plus, the park offers a four-lane boat ramp and a 200-foot lighted fishing pier. There’s plenty of room for water skiing, swimming, fishing, and hiking.

15. Fossati’s Delicatessen

Founded in 1882, Fossati’s Delicatessen (feh-SEH-tee) is the oldest deli in Texas where you can still get an Italian po’boy, a Reuben, or the chicken salad melt. Open weekdays only. Fossati’s is one of the oldest restaurants in the U.S. still run by the same family.

Pro Tip: Try the Old Family Recipe, the Dutch Lunch with cheese, cold-cuts, and bread with spicy mustard.

16. Texas Barbecue Trail In The Coastal Bend

The Texas Coastal Bend Barbecue Trail is one of the best in the country.

Aunt Jo’s BBQ , located in a family’s restored 1920s grocery store with a landmark painted pig out front, is home to mesquite roasted slow-cooked brisket with a flavor all its own. Try the three-meat Trucker’s Special with Aunt Jo’s brisket, sausage, and ribs. The sauce has a unique, sweet flavor and the potato salad is spectacular.

Pro Tip: Save room for the mini pecan pie or peach cobbler.

McMillans Bar-B-Que opened near the Coleto Creek Power Station in the 1980s. Louis has grown his business over the past 30+ years to include serving three presidents and quarterback Troy Aikman, plus he put two daughters through college. He cooks low and slow using fruitwoods and a combination of mesquite, pecan, and oak.

Pro Tip: Order the rib eye steak, or the fall-apart-in-your-mouth brisket, and his ranch-style beans.

For more barbecue, visit KB’s BBQ , Mumphord’s Place , and Uncle Mutt’s Bar-B-Que .

17. Seafood In Victoria

Victoria is close to the Gulf, so finding fresh seafood isn’t tricky. Check out Baytown Seafood Restaurant or Dockside Boiling Pot, sourced from Seadrift, directly from their crab boats. Savor Louisiana-style crab, shrimp, and crawfish at this food trailer called Southern Select Crawfish. Texas Seafood features fried seafood baskets, shrimp boils, and authentic Vietnamese dishes. Next to the Coleto Creek Park and Reservoir, the Cracked Crab specializes in Cajun seafood boils, bisque, fried seafood, casseroles, and cobblers.

18. Inn On Main

Stay at the Inn on Main in Victoria, initially constructed in 1875 as a residence for an established Victoria family. Restored and opened in September 1998, the Inn is a showcase of fine craftsmanship and Victorian elegance. Choose from seven suites, each with a bedroom, sitting room, and bath. All reservations include a continental serve-yourself breakfast.

Victoria is famous as “The Crossroads” because of its central location within a two-hour drive of San Antonio , Austin , Houston , and Corpus Christi .

Janie H. Pace is a travel writer and photographer based in Fort Worth, Texas. Her culinary, wine, and travel photography adventures have led her across Peru from Cusco through the Sacred Valley to Machu Picchu; up the Canadian Icefields Parkway from Lake Louise to Banff and Jasper, indulging in Fairmont luxury hotels; and to the four largest islands of Hawaii. Her latest adventure was a Viking Cruise to the Norwegian Homelands. After a career in advertising and sales, Janie knows what makes compelling, substantial content. Whether she's participating in a wine tasting, restaurant review, or local craft beer or distillery tour, Janie posts her adventures at Journey Mapped .

13 Top Things to Do in Victoria, TX

Victoria, Texas is a vibrant South Texas City situated about two hours south of Houston on the banks of the Guadalupe River. With a population of over 60,000, it manages to exude small-town charm while still offering plenty of bigger city amenities. 

With so many fun things to do in Victoria, Texas, it’s the perfect destination for a weekend getaway. It’s conveniently located within two hours of Houston and San Antonio and is close to the coast as well. Our list of top things to do in Victoria includes many free options, which is great if you’re on a tight budget. 

Here are thirteen of the top things to do in Victoria, TX.

13 Top Things to do in Victoria, TX

Victoria educational gardens.

The Victoria Educational Gardens might be small, but it is definitely not something to miss. It’s one of the top things to do in Victoria Texas for nature lovers, families, and anyone who wants to learn more about the local flora and fauna. The Gardens feature a variety of beautifully landscaped displays, showcasing different types of plants and flowers that are native to the region.

If you look closely, you might spy all 26 letters of the alphabet hidden among the plants, pointing to items that begin with that letter. 

The butterfly garden is a prominent feature of the gardens, as is the Butterfly Haven, an enclosed structure filled with plants associated with various butterfly species. 

Admission is free and the gardens are open from dawn to dusk daily.

The Texas Zoo

The Texas zoo houses over 70 species of animals, many of which are rescue animals that can’t be returned to the wild, or come from owners who can longer provide care. Animals who call the Texas Zoo home range from native Texas species to exotic animals from around the world. We saw everything from bunny rabbits and prairie dogs to jaguars and tigers.

You can learn about the fascinating habitats, behaviors, and diets of the animals and see them up close in their well-maintained habitats. Plus, they offer opportunities to get up close and personal with the animals. We got to hold a snake, pet and feed the bunnies, and even feed a bear!

Admission: 

$10.50  Adults (age 13+)   $9.50  Children (age 3-12) $9.50  Seniors (age 55+)     $9.50  Active/Retired Military  Free  Toddlers (age 2 and under) 

The Texas Zoo is open 7 days a week, Sunday – Saturday, 10AM-4PM

Riverside Park

Riverside Park is a beautiful park with access to the Guadalupe River. It’s home to the Texas Zoo, an expansive playground, a golf course, a rose garden, and a disc golf course, to name just a few attractions. 

Victoria Paddle Trail

The Guadalupe River runs right through the city and provides plenty of opportunities for swimming, fishing, and paddling. We rented kayaks from Flow Paddle Co . and took a trip down the river. Even though it was winter, and a cold day at that, it was a beautiful paddle trip through calm water and stunning views.

Coleto Creek Park

If you can’t get enough of the water, head over to Coleto Creek Park. Situated midway between Victoria and Goliad, the park surrounds the Coleto Creek Reservoir. The main purpose of the reservoir is to serve as a cooling pond for the Coleto Creek Power coal-fired power plant, but you can also fish and swim. There’s a public boat ramp and numerous campsites, including cabins and RV hookups. 

Admission is $17/vehicle/day for up to 4 people and $5/additional person for larger groups.

Athey Nature Preserve

The Athey Nature Preserve is a wide-open grassy area with a few wooded trails. In addition to exploring the trails, you can head over to the Athey Nature Sanctuary Birding Deck to see what birds you can find. The city provides disposable cardboard binoculars for guests to better see the birds attracted to the various feeding stations around the deck.

Historic Downtown

In addition to all the beautiful nature, Victoria has a thriving historic downtown district undergoing revitalization. Colorful murals line the walls and even the crosswalks, and there are plenty of cute shops and restaurants to keep you busy all day.

Our favorite store we visited was The Texian, a locally owned bookstore featuring a vast array of popular novels, children’s books, and rare vintage books. There are comfortable seating areas for both kids and adults, with beanbags for the kids and artfully arranged couches and wing-back chairs for the adults. They even host book clubs where locals can gather to discuss the latest book.

Victoria Courthouse

The Victoria Courthouse is one of the most beautiful courthouses in Texas. Built in the Romanesque style, this magnificent structure dates back to 1892 and is made of Texas granite and Indiana limestone. 

Open to the public, Monday-Friday 8AM-5PM.

Old Victoria Driving Tour

If you’re obsessed with old houses like I am, you’ll love the driving tour that takes you past some magnificent historic homes. There are 80+ homes on this tour, many of which are listed on the National Register of Historic Places and have been awarded Texas Historic Landmark status.

Ax Throwing

The Axe Society is a great place to let off some steam. In addition to being a great place to hone your ax-throwing skills (which is a lot harder than it looks), the ax yard also features incredible artwork all over the walls, created by the owner. But perhaps the most striking feature of The Axe Society is the giant ‘Iron Throne’ made up of dozens of axes.

Reservations start at $22 per person per hour.

Monday 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm Tuesday 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm Wednesday 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm Thursday 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm Friday 6:00 pm – 11:00 pm Saturday 1:00 pm – 11:00 pm Sunday 1:00 pm – 9:00 pm

Outlaw Pass

For some more family fun, head over to Outlaw Pass. Here you can enjoy arcades, mini golf, and other fun activities like bungee jumping, go-karts, a mini roller coaster, and more. You can opt to do just one activity for a quick visit or purchase a package of activities to save some cash. Grab some food while you’re at it and make a day of it.  

Summer Hours

Starts May 30th

• Tuesday – Thursday : 11am – 10pm
• Friday : 11am – 11pm
• Saturday : 10am – 11pm
• Sunday : 1pm – 8pm
• Closed Mondays

Winter Hours

Starts August 10th

• Wednesday – Thursday : 3pm – 8pm
• Friday : 3pm – 11pm
• Closed Mondays & Tuesdays

Children’s Discovery Museum

The Children’s Discovery Museum is a fun outing for little kids. There are a variety of interactive exhibits, like building your own sailboat and placing it in front of a fan to see how fast it will sail, or building a maze of gears to see how one moving affects the others. There’s also a mini town where kids can be bankers, supermarket cashiers, vets, doctors, frontiersmen, and even put on their own play.

The museum is open Tuesdays – Saturdays from 10am – 5pm.

Admission is $8 per person and children 23 months and younger are free.

Fannin Battleground State Historic Site

Major battles of the Texas Revolution were fought in this region of Texas. One such battle, the Battle of Coleto Creek, was fought right outside Victoria on March 19 and March 20, 1836. The Texas army, led by Col. James W. Fannin surrendered to Mexican forces, but in a macabre twist, Fannin and his men were executed by Santa Anna in nearby Goliad. “Remember Goliad!” became the battle chant after this brutal, surprise execution.

At the Fannin Battleground, you’ll find a giant stone obelisk marking the spot where Fannin surrendered. There are picnic areas, a large group pavilion, and an indoor interpretive exhibit that delves deeper into the history of the Battle of Coleto Creek. This is a great stop to combine with a trip to Goliad State Park.

Victoria is a great place to visit on its own as a weekend getaway or as part of a larger road trip. With Houston not too far north, Corpus Christi to the Southeast, and San Antonio to the west, there is plenty to explore in the area. And while we tried to provide as much information as possible on all the top things to do in Victoria Texas, there’s no substitute for heading over and experiencing it for yourself.

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When you’re not soaking up the sun, check out the monkeys and black bears at Victoria’s zoo, see works from world-renowned artists, and take in all the year-round live music and entertainment. Add in breathtaking historic architecture and a wealth of local shops to browse and you’ve got the makings of an unforgettable vacation.

Victoria is one of the oldest cities in Texas, established by Martín De León in 1824 after receiving a charter from Mexico to begin a colony. During the Texas Revolution, Victoria supplied horses, cattle, military equipment and provisions in the fight against Antonio Lopez de Santa Anna despite the colony’s ties to Mexico. An influx of European immigrants arrived in the decades following the war, adding to the town’s diversity that is still expressed to this day.

Discover Victoria’s past, along with 13,000 years of Texas history, at the Museum of the Coastal Bend . Learn about the region’s earliest residents, the ill-fated French colony of Fort St. Louis, Spanish missions, and the birth of the cattle industry. You can even learn how to use an atlatl, an ancient projectile-throwing hunting tool. For a different look at Victoria’s history, go on the Old Victoria Driving Tour . This self-guided journey takes you to more than 80 beautiful historic homes and buildings, including the oldest deli in Texas, Fossati’s Delicatessen . Opened in 1882 by Italian immigrant Fraschio Napoleon Fossati, the restaurant is still owned and operated by the Fossati family. Be sure to check out the metal rings out front where patrons used to tie up their horses, as well as the giant bookcase filled with hundreds of cookbooks, some of which have been out of print for more than 50 years.

If you’re here on a Friday or Saturday night, don’t miss Huvar’s Artisan Market ’s popular pizza night - try the barbecue brisket and Gouda pizza and an oven-fried apple crisp a la mode. Or dine on the patio at The PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar , offering a delightful ambiance and often live music, not to mention out-of-this-world fried jalapeno macaroni and cheese wrapped in bacon with roasted jalapeno ranch for dipping. End your day with live music and a cocktail or craft beer at Moonshine Drinkery or Aerocrafters. These options are great, but they’re just an appetizer. After all, there are more than 50 locally owned eateries, bakeries, and coffee shops in Victoria where you can indulge your inner foodie.

As you might be able to tell, there’s plenty to see and do when you visit Victoria. Yet all of this is just a taste of what you can experience in this historic town. Plan your next trip here and you’ll discover that the possibilities really are endless.

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20 Best & Fun Things to Do in Victoria, TX

We all crave to visit places that offer unmatched fun experiences, and the fantastic city of Texas is right there to give you the perfect Tourist Experience.

On the Gulf of Mexico coast lies Victoria county’s largest city- Victoria, TX. The town is just two hours from San Antonio and is the perfect venue for a weekend getaway with friends and family.

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Tourists from all over the world flood the city for the warm Summer sun and the beautiful waters of the Gulf of Victoria, TX.

Named after General Guadalupe Victoria, the first president of newly-formed Mexico, Victoria is the most famous town and the county seat of Victoria County.

Founded in 1824 by Martin De Leon, Victoria is a great city to visit and enjoy outdoor and indoor fun activities, from swimming, hiking, fishing, and other events.

The city features several parklands, museums, restaurants, theatres, wildlife, and landmarks. Interested in all Victoria, TX has to offer?

Here’s a list of the best and most fun things to do in Victoria, TX.

Table of Contents

Things to Do in Victoria, TX

1. explore presidio la bahia.

Would you love to visit one of Victoria city’s famous historical landmarks? If yes, stop by the Presidio La Bahia and explore this significant landmark.

Presidio La Bahia is a famous landmark in the city of Texas and beyond. It ranks as the most impressive model of a Spanish frontier fort anywhere in the world.

The Presidio La Bahia museum contains a variety of artifacts that reflect Texas culture and history.

If you do not haste to leave, you can spend a day or two at the fort’s quarters.

Location: 217 US-183, Goliad, TX 77963, United States

2. Visit the Nave Museum

Opened in 1932, Nave Museum is a museum that seeks to inspire and educate people with its arts.

Emma McFaddin Navy commissioned the Nave Museum to showcase her late husband’s painting.

Nave Museum lies in a significant location in Victoria’s arts and culture scene. Arts lovers from all over the globe visit this museum annually.

Visitors can enjoy art shows as the museum hosts a series of art shows annually featuring local and global sculptors and artists.

Nave Museum is also home to many artworks, including handmade quilts and wood carvings.

Nave Museum brings out the artist in you, so endeavor to include it on your bucket list.

Location: 306 W Commercial St, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

3. Family Time at Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir

It’s always fun when the whole family is out on vacation and if you need a place to spend quality time with family in Victoria, look no further than Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir.

Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir is an outdoor recreational center that spans across 190-acres of land.

The park is a family-oriented recreation venue residing on a 3,100-acre freshwater reservoir.

The park features many exciting activities, including swimming, biking, sand volleyball, boating, wildlife viewing, boating, fishing, and picnics with friends.

Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir lies midway between Victoria and Goliad and acts as a cooling pond for the Coleto Creek Power.

Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir has numerous activities for people of all ages so make sure you plan your visit with a trip to this fantastic site on your itinerary.

Location: 365 Coleto Park Rd, Victoria, TX 77905, United States

4. Grab Your Favourite Barbecue along Great Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail

If you require a place to buy delicious barbecue in Victoria, look no further than Great Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail.

The barbecuing scenes on the Great Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail reflect Texan culture. The trail cuts across numerous multi-generational barbecue spots.

Over at Great Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail, visitors can enjoy exploring different briskets with carefully selected sides and grab a delicious dessert.

Visitors can also learn about the different cooking techniques employed by the locals and the history of these establishments.

Don’t miss out on Aunt Jo’s rich, slow-cooked briskets with a unique sweet sauce.

McMillan’s Bar-B-Q is another option to consider also. Thanks to its briskets prepared in scents of fruit woods, including peach and cherry.

You can’t run out of what to eat along the Great Coastal Texas Barbecue Trail so do well to prioritize a visit on your bucket list.

Location: Victoria, TX, United States

5. Watch Sports Games at Riverside Stadium

Do you need a place to relax and watch sports games with family and friends in Victoria? If so, then make sure you prioritize a visit to Riverside Stadium on your bucket list.

Riverside Stadium is the home of the Victoria Generals and the U.H.V. Jaguars baseball team of the Texas Collegiate League.

Previously the home of Victoria Rosebuds that played in the A.A. classification Texas League from 1958 to 1961, Riverside Stadium opened its doors to guests in 1947.

Riverside Stadium has seating for over 1500 people, a concession stand, and restrooms.

It’s a nice place to play sports and spend time with family and friends, so make sure you stop by here, and you’ll be glad you did.

Location: 405 Memorial Dr, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

6. Outdoor Fun Experience at Grace Ranch

Don’t spend your entire vacation in Victoria sleeping and staying indoors. Instead, plan an outdoor trip and explore the wonderful city of Victoria.

Grace Ranch is one of the best places for outdoor fun experiences in Victoria, TX. The Ranch cuts across 1200 acres and is famous for horse riding.

Tourists worldwide visit Victoria annually to participate in its western horse riding events.

Grace Ranch is a family-owned ranch located 7 miles north of Victoria. If you’ve ever dreamt of learning horse riding, then here’s your chance as they organize horse riding classes for beginners and professionals.

They also host several rodeo and western horse shows. Grace Ranch is accessible by both adults and kids, so endeavor to come along with your kids.

Their learning outline covers instructions on basic riding, horse safety, maintenance, and ranch excursions.

Grace Ranch also hosts other exciting events like capture the flag and cook-outs. Finally, if you have time and desire something adventurous, you can opt for their trail riding program that lets you ride to the Texan countryside on horses.

Location: 19655 US-77, Victoria, TX 77904, United States

7. Enjoy Theater and Musical Performances at Victoria Fine Arts Center

If you’re craving something entertaining and exciting to do in Victoria, look no further than Victoria Fine Arts Center.

Victoria Fine Arts Center is a great art center with seating large enough for over 1,481 persons. The center is famous for its numerous art festivals and events, such as performances by the Victoria Symphony Orchestra and many others.

Victoria Fine Arts Center hosts musical events, lectures, concerts, author presentations, play performances, and others.

The center has a parking space and neat restrooms. So whether you’re looking for something to do alone or in groups, you’ll enjoy spending time at Victoria Fine Arts Center.

Location: 1002 Sam Houston Drive, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

8. Take Kids to Lone Tree Creek Splash Pad

Lone Tree Creek Splash Pad is one of the best and most fun places for adults and kids to have fun in Victoria, TX.

The Lone Tree Creek Splash Pad features several splash pads for kids, including a large dump tank, three small fill N-splash, and eight ground sprinkler spouts.

Lone Tree Creek Splash Pad has a picnic area with shaded tables and benches. Adults can relax on the benches while their kids have fun with other playmates.

The splash pad also has a vast parking lot and several well-maintained restrooms. Hike lovers can hike along the site’s trail, and do not forget to come with your swimming trunks and swim diapers for kids.

Entry into the splash pad is free, and the site opens every Monday to Sunday from 10:00 am to 7:00 pm.

Location: 4009 E. Airline Road Lone Tree Creek Park, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

9. Visit Outlaw Pass Family Centre

Outlaw Pass Family Centre is one of the best and most fun places to visit in Victoria, TX.

Outlaw Pass Family Centre is a family-owned recreational center perfect for spending time with family and friends.

Golfing is one of the center’s most prominent activities, as golfers across the globe visit the area to play golf with other professionals.

Other fun-filled activities at the Outlaw Pass Family Centre include Bungee jumping, Arcade Games, Rock wall, Mining Sluice, and Go-Karts.

Prices for each activity are cheap, and they also offer special discounts that allow guests purchase three or more of the activities at a subsidized price.

Outlaw Pass Family Centre also features a snack bar that serves delicious dishes. So if ever you feel famished at the center, you can grab an exquisite meal at the snack bar.

Location: 78 Tate Rd, Victoria, TX 77904, United States

10. Spend Time With Kids at Children’s Discovery Museum

Do you need something to do in Victoria, TX, with kids? If so, look no further than the Children’s Discovery Museum, as they have everything you need and more.

Children’s Discovery Museum spans more than 10,000 square feet and offers numerous fun activities for kids in Victoria.

The museum’s S.T.E.A.M. (Science Technology Engineering and Math) initiative helps create various programs and events to improve Kids’ cognitive development.

Kids partake in hands-on learning that aids in easy comprehension of the sciences.

Children’s Discovery Museum features 20+ exhibits, including Discovery Lab and a place specifically built to improve kids’ thinking and problem-solving prowess.

Children’s Discovery Museum also hosts several kids’ programs like Sprouting Melodies, Family Maker Nights, and Scientific Saturdays.

Location: 1205 Sam Houston Dr, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

11. Explore Victoria Paddling Trail

Victoria Paddling Trail is an exciting place to take a walk and enjoy the scenic view; it’s a 25-mile trail that includes the Chisholm Trail, Riverside Park, and Mission Espiritu.

The area is scenic and meanders along the Guadalupe River in the Coastal Region.

Victoria Paddling Trail is a fantastic site with fast-flowing and shallow water. The area is also perfect for birdwatching and relaxation.

Several fun activities in Victoria Paddling Trail include fishing for aquatic species along the Guadalupe River and wildlife viewing.

If you’re a Wildlife lover, you’ll get the chance to spot egrets, bald eagles, herons, hawks, phoebes, and many others.

There are over five different access locations for the various sections of the Victoria Paddling Trail, so endeavor to take the one closest to you and visit this fantastic site.

Location: McCright Dr. Riverside Park Boat Ramp, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

12. Stop By at Victoria Visitor Information Center

Victoria Visitor Information Center is one place every visitor in Victoria must prioritize on their itinerary list.

The center is the best place to gather information and plan your tour in Victoria, TX.

Staff at the Victoria Visitor Information Center aid you in purchasing tickets, booking accommodation, making reservations, and helping you with all the information you need to make your stay in Victoria worthwhile.

The staff at the center is nice and friendly. They’re always available to answer guests’ questions and educate them on the things to do, where to go shopping, where to get the finest wine, the best park to visit, and many more.

Guests at the center also have access to free maps and brochures to aid them in booking hotels, finding locations, and making reservations.

Victoria Visitor Information Center opens every Monday through Friday from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm.

Location: 700 N Main St, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

13. Shop for Fresh Produce at Downtown Farmers Market

Nothing beats the feeling of visiting a fantastic location where you can shop for locally grown products and organic items. No place offers such delight better than Victoria’s Downtown Farmers Market.

Hundreds of big and small merchants converge at the market to sell locally sourced produce from the farm.

The food and items available at the farm come in small quantities, so you’re sure to find only the best products on the market.

The market opens between 9 am and 1 pm on a Saturday, so endeavor to go early as the products are in limited supply.

Available products at the market include fresh Texas honey, homemade sauce, raw meat, ground coffee, and many other delicate items.

14. Animal Sightseeing at Texas Zoo

Are you a lover of wildlife?

Would you love to visit a place where you can spot wildlife in cages and get a chance to pet and even snap pictures with them?

If yes, a visit to Victoria, TX, shouldn’t miss out on your checklist.

Texas Zoo is a fantastic place to visit with kids. Texas zoo aims to create a bridge between wildlife and the public and help foster better understanding between them.

They promote animal conservation through research, advocacy, and education. The zoo is home to over 100 different animal species, native and exotic.

The animals reside in cages and structures that look exactly like their natural habitats.

Texas Zoo has a petting zoo where you can pet and admire animals in close range. There’s also a Children’s Play Area at the reptile enclosure of the zoo where kids can go and have fun.

Get a taste of the wild at this beautiful location, and you will be glad you did.

Location: 110 Memorial Dr, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

15. Visit Victoria Art League

If you’re searching for the best and most fun things to do in Victoria, you might consider visiting Victoria Art League.

Founded in 1966, Victoria Art League seeks to promote visual arts in Victoria for Crossroads residents; its goal is to foster understanding, appreciation, and birthing of visual arts in every child and adult.

Victoria Art League is a non-profit organization that offers many thrilling events to adults and kids.

Their schedule features activities like clay-sculpting workshops and hosts a five-day course where they teach kids how to study and make their artworks.

Victoria Art League is a place adults and kids would love to visit, so do well to include it on your to-do list.

Location: 905 S Bridge St, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

16. Relax at Riverside Park

If you need a place to relax and calm your head, you should consider adding Riverside Park to your bucket list.

Surrounded by over 4.5 miles of the Guadalupe River, Riverside Park is a fantastic place to relax and be alone with your thoughts.

Riverside Park is the largest park in Victoria and spans over 700 acres. There are tons of activities for adults and kids respectively at the park.

Riverside Park features a vast kids’ playground and sports field. There’s also a Memorial Rose Garden at the park where visitors go to clear their heads.

Nature lovers can also have fun hiking or biking at the Athey Nature Trail at the park. There’s also a Duck Pond where visitors get a chance to spot numerous ducks and even feed them.

Location: 1301 Riverside Blvd, Sioux City, TX 51109, United States

17. Check out Regional History at the Museum of the Coastal Bend

Visiting a museum isn’t touristy during vacation; unlike every other typical museum, the Museum of the Coastal Bend is a one-of-a-kind museum that you must leave Victoria without visiting.

The Museum of the Coastal Bend contains many historical artifacts and collections dating back over 13,000 years.

Museum of the Coastal Bend contains stone knives, an example of a straw house that early settlers used, dart points, atlatl, and other collections. The museum also includes cannons discovered in 1966.

History lovers would appreciate spending time at the museum as it introduces you to the history of Local, French, and Spanish inhabitants living in Victoria for 13,000 years.

The staff at the Museum of the Coastal Bend is amiable and knowledgeable. They take their time to explain the history of things at the museums to guests.

The Museum of the Coastal Bend is a fantastic place to learn about Victoria’s history and culture, so ensure you stop by before exiting Victoria.

Museum of the Coastal Ben is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 to 4:00 pm.

Location: 2200 E Red River St, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

18. Grab Delicious Meal at PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar

If you require a place to eat delicious meals and drink fine wine, then PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar is the perfect fit for you.

PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar ranks as one of the most historic structures in the city of Victoria.

Before its conversion to a dine-in restaurant, PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar served as the town’s central water supplier for over a century.

PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar became part of the National Register of Historic Places in 1986. It also became part of the official national landmark in 2011.

You can enjoy the tranquil panorama of the Guadalupe River from the restaurant’s decks. Don’t forget to stop by the pumphouse to grab a bite of their delicious selection of American dishes.

PumpHouse Riverside Restaurant and Bar features an indoor dining option with access to the hotel’s bar.

Location: 1201 W Stayton Ave, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

19. Visit Victoria County Courthouse

Your visit to Victoria, TX, isn’t complete without a stop at the Victoria County Courthouse.

The Victoria County Courthouse is one of the most beautiful courthouses in the U.S.

Founded in 1892, Victoria County Courthouse features the Romanesque Revival Style, and the structure is a proficient historic landmark in the state.

Victoria County Courthouse is also a place to learn about history, as the museum walls contain photographs and paintings that reflect the city’s history.

Victoria County Courthouse also features an apex tower and arches, brick patterns, and pillars, making it an exciting venue to visit.

Tour around the corners of this remarkable structure and learn about the subtleties that governed law and order in previous years.

Location: 101 N Bridge St, Victoria, TX 77901, United States

20. Experience the Wild at Aransas Wildlife Refuge

If you’re a wildlife lover visiting Victoria, then Aransas Wildlife Refuge is one place you can’t afford to leave Victoria without visiting.

Just a 45-minute drive away from Victoria, TX, Aransas Wildlife Refuge is a reserved gem in the city of Texas.

Discovered first over 120,000 years ago from the oceans during the Pleistocene period, Aransas Wildlife Refuge is home to woolly mammoths, lions, camels, and mastodons.

Aransas Wildlife Refuge initially functioned as a park to protect endangered whooping cranes before it evolved into a sanctuary to protect endangered wildlife species.

Aransas Wildlife Refuge is a haven for migratory birds and other wildlife. The area is also perfect for birdwatching.

Plan your trip with a visit to Aransas Wildlife Refuge on your itinerary, and do not forget to come with your camera to take lovely shots and capture every moment spent at the refuge.

Location: 1 Wildlife Cir, Austwell, TX 77950, United States

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• ALL CATEGORIES
• Bicentennial
• Annual Events
• Food & Drink
• Holiday Season
• Sports & Outdoors
• Victoria Public Library

Top Things to Do in Victoria, TX

Things to do in victoria.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art

2. Riverside Park

3. The Texas Zoo

4. The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse

5. Victoria Fine Arts Center

6. Museum of the Coastal Bend

7. Victoria Visitor Information Center

8. Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir

9. Victoria Paddling Trail

10. Children's Discovery Museum

11. Lorenzo Dow Heaton House

12. Evergreen Cemetery

13. Lone Tree Creek Splashpad

14. Victoria Skate Park

15. Riverside Stadium

16. Indianola Ghost Town

17. Deleon Plaza

18. Old Nazareth Academy

19. Nave Museum

20. public archeology laboratory.

21. Victoria Farmers' Market

22. Temple B'nai Israel

23. andustoria wines, 24. arts etc, 25. martin luther king, jr. park, 26. patriot park, 27. art & coins shop, 28. del papa distributing, 29. fossati park, 30. pine street park, what travellers are saying.

• Riverside Park
• The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse
• The Texas Zoo
• Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir
• Indianola Ghost Town
• Victoria Paddling Trail
• Lone Tree Creek Splashpad

• Free & Cheap Activities

Free & Cheap Things to Do in Victoria, TX

• The list below includes 17 free or cheap things to do in or near Victoria, Texas, including 16 different types of inexpensive activities like Parks, Art Museum, Arcades and Bowling.
• From Riverside Park to Ethyl Lee Tracy Park, there are a variety of budget-friendly attractions in Victoria and in nearby cities within 25 miles like Port Lavaca .

Riverside Park

Ethyl lee tracy park, ethel lee tracy park, the 1892 victoria county courthouse, coleto creek park & reservoir, fun fun city arcade, oak hill pool, museum of the coastal bend, victoria skate park, riverside stadium.

Top Things to Do in Victoria

Things to do in victoria.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art

2. Riverside Park

3. The Texas Zoo

4. The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse

5. Victoria Fine Arts Center

6. Museum of the Coastal Bend

7. Victoria Visitor Information Center

8. Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir

9. Victoria Paddling Trail

10. Children's Discovery Museum

11. Lorenzo Dow Heaton House

12. Evergreen Cemetery

13. Lone Tree Creek Splashpad

14. Victoria Skate Park

15. Riverside Stadium

16. Indianola Ghost Town

17. Deleon Plaza

18. Old Nazareth Academy

19. Nave Museum

20. public archeology laboratory.

21. Victoria Farmers' Market

22. Temple B'nai Israel

23. andustoria wines, 24. arts etc, 25. patriot park, 26. martin luther king, jr. park, 27. art & coins shop, 28. fossati park, 29. del papa distributing, 30. pine street park, what travellers are saying.

• Riverside Park
• The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse
• The Texas Zoo
• Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir
• Indianola Ghost Town
• Victoria Paddling Trail
• Lone Tree Creek Splashpad

GOBankingRates

8 Undiscovered Cheap and Beautiful Places To Retire

Posted: May 17, 2023 | Last updated: March 5, 2024

In planning for retirement, deciding "where" is just as important as determining how much you should save. And while it's easy to find beautiful cities throughout the United States, not all of us can afford to live in those places on a fixed income.

Retirement Savings: Here's How Much Cash Baby Boomers Need To Retire in the Next 5 Years Related: 3 Ways To Recession-Proof Your Retirement

GOBankingRates looked at the cities with the lowest rent and focused on locations with populations under 200,000 residents. Rather than break the bank or sacrifice for a less than desirable area, take a look at these eight beautiful and uncrowded cities to retire in.

Springfield, Missouri

• Cost To Rent: $662
• Population: 167,882
• Livability Score: 62

At the top of the list is the city with the lowest rent and a lot of historical significance, Springfield. The city is also home to a number of national parks so you can treat yourself to a nature walk whenever you feel like it. Though its livability score is below the national average, when compared to the Missouri average, Springfield has a 4% lower cost of living and 22% lower real estate prices.

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• Cost To Rent: $709
• Population: 66,258
• Livability Score: 83

Retirees looking for a city with a small-town-feel need look no further than Ames. This city has the second smallest population on this list, behind only Grand Forks. When compared to the state average, the crime rates here are lower. And with such a high livability score, the highest on the list as a matter of fact, Ames is sure to attract more and more people to its streets.

Social Security: 20% Cuts to Your Payments May Come Sooner Than Expected

Sioux Falls, South Dakota

• Cost To Rent: $827
• Population: 183,793
• Livability Score: 70

Although this city has the largest population on this list, Sioux Falls is the ideal retirement locale for those looking for a combination of urban and natural scenery. Those who live here spend a lot of time visiting the various museums and the natural falls the city is named for. Because the city is so lively, there's no shortage of things to do whenever the family comes to visit.

Victoria, Texas

• Cost To Rent: $841
• Population: 66,916
• Livability Score: 69

Victoria is home to less than 67K people and the Texas Zoo! Retirees can get their daily dose of beauty taking a walk through the Victoria Educational Gardens where admission is free and exotic species bloom year-round. The city's website details both a historic walking trail of Victoria as well as a Coastal Barbeque trail.

Columbia, Missouri

• Cost To Rent: $924
• Population: 123,195

Columbia may have an average livability score, but the city has a lot to offer retirees. The historic area is home to a number of museums and landmarks as well as state parks and hiking trails. And with colleges nearby, the city grows a bit during the school year, creating a nice mix of generations. With 11% of the population over 65 according to the U.S. 2020 Census, there won't be a shortage of older communities to socialize in.

Find Out: How Many Hours Can You Work and Still Collect Social Security?

Grand Forks, North Dakota

• Cost To Rent: $939
• Population: 55,839
• Livability Score: 74

Boasting a "lively, bustling community surrounded by tranquil, scenic farm country," Grand Forks is a beautiful city to retire in. 11% of the population are over 65, signifying a significant retiree community. Even better, the city is full of natural beauty seen in the number of parks and the picturesque Japanese Garden. Be warned: this city experiences all four seasons, including a very cold winter.

Baytown, Texas

• Cost To Rent: $949
• Population: 77,192
• Livability Score: 75

On the opposite end of the spectrum, Texas enjoys extremes in the other direction, boasting warm weather most of the year. As the second Texas city on this list, Baytown has a higher livability score and higher rent. Still, the overall costs of living here are 4% lower than the state average. Real estate prices are 33% lower, and rental prices are 9% lower. Also, Baytown is a coastal city, meaning you can enjoy a view of the San Jacinto Bay anytime you like.

San Angelo, Texas

• Cost To Rent: $972
• Population: 101,004
• Livability Score: 78

Much like the other Texas cities on this list, San Angelo is home to warm temperatures and a low cost of living. Here, the rentals are a whopping 12% lower than the state average. The city sits on the Concho River, creating beautiful scenery everywhere you look. Proudly rooted in its Southern Heritage, San Angelo is known for its 1860s U.S. army post, the Fort Concho National Historic Landmark, with original artifacts and weapons on display.

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Cost To Rent and Population are sourced from research conducted by Rent.com . Livability scores are sourced from AreaVibes. All data was collected as of Sept. 23, 2022.

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Top Things to Do in Victoria, TX - Victoria Must-See Attractions

Things to do in victoria.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Kids
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Couples
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. The Five Points Museum of Contemporary Art

2. Riverside Park

3. The Texas Zoo

4. The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse

5. Victoria Fine Arts Center

6. Museum of the Coastal Bend

7. Victoria Visitor Information Center

8. Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir

9. Victoria Paddling Trail

10. Children's Discovery Museum

11. Lorenzo Dow Heaton House

12. Evergreen Cemetery

13. Lone Tree Creek Splashpad

14. Victoria Skate Park

15. Riverside Stadium

16. Indianola Ghost Town

17. Deleon Plaza

18. Old Nazareth Academy

19. Nave Museum

20. public archeology laboratory.

21. Victoria Farmers' Market

22. Temple B'nai Israel

23. andustoria wines, 24. arts etc, 25. martin luther king, jr. park, 26. patriot park, 27. art & coins shop, 28. del papa distributing, 29. fossati park, 30. pine street park, what travellers are saying.

• Riverside Park
• The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse
• The Texas Zoo
• Coleto Creek Park & Reservoir
• Indianola Ghost Town
• Victoria Paddling Trail
• Lone Tree Creek Splashpad

• International edition
• Australia edition
• Europe edition

A local’s travel guide to Austin: what to eat, see and do in three days

Standout spots include food truck parks, honky-tonk hangouts and Lady Bird’s wildflower sanctuary

A ustin has become one of the most popular places in the US to move to, and also to visit. Droves of people descend on the city in March for the South by Southwest tech, film and music festival and in the fall for the Austin City Limits music festival. And Austin is one of the top five destinations in the US for bachelorette parties. Don’t let the bachelorettes scare you away, though. Austin is a great place to spend a few days, so long as you do it like a local.

My family and I moved to Austin 12 years ago, after living in New York for many years. I’ve also lived in Washington DC , the San Francisco Bay Area and Philadelphia. Austin has a feel all of its own: it has a world-class music scene, great food that now goes well beyond Tex-Mex and barbecue, Texas history and fun shopping and museums – all with less hassle than bigger cities in the US.

Here’s my guide to a long weekend there. In addition to picks for adults, I’ve included some recommendations for families that our kids (now teenagers) have loved through the years. And I’m vegetarian, so I’ve chosen some of the city’s best veggie eats options. Don’t worry, my meat-eating wife made sure that I included great barbecue choices, too.

Day 1: Pool party & pickles

Start your day with a walk or run on the trail at Town Lake (it’s officially labeled on maps as Lady Bird Lake, but locals refer to it as Town Lake). This 10-mile (16km) trail on both sides of a dammed portion of Texas’s Colorado River (a different Colorado River than the bigger and more famous one) is tree-shaded, beautiful and one of Austinites’ favorite places to exercise. If you have time, walk through Zilker Park, which is right next to the trail. If you have kids, go to the new and very fun playground at Butler Park, complete with a splash pad just up the path from the playground.

Austin was one of the cities that started the food truck scene in the US several decades ago, and now there are more than 2,000 food trucks in the city. Some are located in trailer parks that have multiple truck options and picnic table seating. After your morning at Town Lake and Zilker Park, have lunch at the Picnic food truck park, or the nearby original location of local favorite Chuy’s (the Tex-Mex chain is now expanding throughout the US). Other great lunch options include Green Mesquite and Carpenters Hall .

In the afternoon, go for a swim at Barton Springs Pool . Open year-round, this massive basin measures three acres and is fed by underground natural springs. It’s open throughout the day, and it’s free before 8am and after 9pm.

Head back to your hotel or Airbnb for a rest, and then get ready for dinner. Tonight is casual: barbecue at Terry Black’s , or if you’re vegan, the food truck Rollin Smoke for a fantastic vegan barbecue sandwich made with baby portobello mushrooms, spicy slaw, barbecue sauce and pickles. It’s my favorite vegan barbecue sandwich in Austin (who says you can’t have barbecue if you’re veggie?), and it’s located in a food truck park with beautiful old trees shading the tables. Rollin Smoke has very good meat options, too (I’m told).

If you have young children, head to Phil’s Icehouse . They have burgers and a full playground where the kids can play before or after dinner. Just don’t put them on the spinning flower after the meal. And be sure to get some ice-cream after dinner at Amy’s Ice Creams , a longtime favorite of Austinites. Amy’s is located next to Phil’s, and it’s so good we had an Amy’s truck serve dessert at our wedding.

After dinner, head out to see some music at one of Austin’s many local music venues. One of our favorites is the Continental Club . There’s a main club downstairs and the intimate Continental Gallery upstairs, where you can see local musicians in a cozy space. Other great venues include C-Boy’s and the new Moody Amphitheater . For full local music listings on any night, check the Austin Chronicle . And if it’s summer, look to see if Blues on the Green has a free concert that night. If you have kids, take them to the free Rock the Park concert series, produced by local radio station KUTX.

Day 2: Breakfast tacos, books & bats

Start your day back at the lake with a rowing workout that’s almost, but not quite, on the lake. Rō Fitness is a local studio that has outdoor rowing classes by the water. It’s way more fun than working out at an indoor studio.

You’ll need fuel after your workout. Grab a breakfast taco at Veracruz or Tacodeli or Tamale House East . Breakfast tacos are an Austin staple (they are to Austin as bagels are to New York), and all three of these places have delicious options.

Today is a shopping day. Start out at BookPeople , one of the greatest bookstores in the US. It’s locally owned and independent, but the size of a superstore. BookPeople also dares to take a stand on issues, including being one of two bookstores that recently sued Texas state officials over a newly passed book ban law. It has an excellent kids section, and organizes live readings by kids’ authors.

After you’ve gotten your book fix, head across the street to Waterloo Records , one of the best record stores in the US. Waterloo carries new and used vinyl, CDs and merchandise from rock to jazz to local Texas music. For more shopping options, head over to the stores along South Congress Avenue and South First Street (including Roadhouse Relics , a neon art store and gallery that is one of our favorites), and if you want to go thrifting, our teens say Austin Pets Alive Thrift and Texas Thrift are the best.

After all of the shopping, it’s time for lunch. If you’re near BookPeople and Waterloo, head over to Soup Peddler, a local place for homemade soups, smoothies and fantastic grilled cheese sandwiches (trivia: Soup Peddler got its name because the founder started out delivering homemade soup by bike before opening full store locations). Or if you’re near South Congress and South First, go to the food trucks on South First or Underdog or Fresa’s .

As you’re heading back to rest up, grab an ice-cream at Amy’s, a gelato at Dolce Neve or cupcakes at Sugar Mama’s .

Some good dinner options for tonight include Loro , Suerte or Este . And if you’re looking for a vegetarian option, one of my favorite veggie restaurants is Bouldin Creek Cafe . It’s casual, with a great menu that includes vegan chips and queso. If it’s nice out, take a seat on the patio.

Tonight’s activity could be going to see the bats at the Congress Street Bridge. Austin has the largest urban bat colony in North America, and in season they live in one of the bridges that crosses the Colorado River (they migrate to Mexico in the cooler weather). Bat-watching is a lot more fun than you might imagine from horror movies (and these bats look more like birds than vampire bats). If you’re not in the mood for bats, head to the legendary Broken Spoke . Get there early for dance lessons, then hoof it at this classic Texas honky-tonk.

Day 3: Live oaks & Lady Bird wildflowers

It’s your last day in Austin, and it’s a good one for visiting a museum. Some of our favorites include the Bullock Museum to learn all about the history of our state (bonus fact: Texas was once its own country , and some people want it to be its own country again ). If you’re a fan of 1960s history, visit the excellent LBJ Presidential Library , which is the home of the 36th president’s papers. It has good exhibits on the US civil rights movement and 1960s US history in general. Another excellent museum option is the Blanton Museum of Art , or you could tour the Texas capitol (Austin is, after all, the capital of Texas). If you’re a nature fan, head to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center . And if you have kids, the Thinkery is an excellent children’s museum.

For lunch, it’s time for more barbecue (you’re in Austin, don’t fight it). Two terrific barbecue trucks are Mickelthwait and LeRoy and Lewis . And LeRoy and Lewis has another of my favorite vegetarian barbecue options: cauliflower burnt ends.

In the afternoon, head back to Town Lake. This time, get out on the water by renting a kayak, stand up paddleboard or paddle boat (a kid-friendly option). If you have time and energy for a drink, head over to the ABGB for happy hour. They have a great beer selection, lots of outdoor seating and local bands playing music.

For your farewell dinner, a few of our favorite restaurants that are a bit on the fancier end are Hestia , Uchi or the Lenoir wine garden, where dinner is served under live oak trees more than a hundred years old. And for a fantastic vegan option, go to Fabrik for a seven-course vegan tasting menu. You’ll need a reservation well in advance (they’re currently booking four to six weeks out). And for your final night in Austin, head out to another music venue. Or if you have kids, take them to the Austin favorite Peter Pan Mini Golf , which has been around for 75 years, or check Do512 Family for family events that are happening the dates you’re in town.

Question Time

When is the best time of year to visit austin.

There’s no dispute: it’s hot in the summer in Austin . A great time to visit is between October and May. From June through September, many days will be over 100F. If you’re here in the summer, spend lots of time at the Barton Springs pool.

Is Austin expensive?

Austin hotels can be expensive during big events like South by Southwest or the Formula One weekend. But for most dates, it’s less expensive than larger cities like New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco.

Will I need a car to get around Austin?

Most of the places that I’ve recommended are within walking distance from downtown. You can also rent bikes and scooters to get around. Austin’s public transportation is primarily through local buses, which can take you further out if needed. And car-share options are easy as well.

Steve Sachs is managing director of the Guardian US. He has worked at large and startup media companies for more than 20 years. He loves all kinds of music, and his most recent favorite concert, the Texas Songwriters Hall of Fame Show, featured a host of singer-songwriters including Lyle Lovett and Emmylou Harris

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