Unearth the chronological history of Texas and the American West with a special emphasis on the Spanish influences of the region at the Bryan Museum.
Located approximately 40 minutes from Houston in the historic Galveston Orphans Home, The Bryan Collection is one of the world’s largest collections of historical artwork, artifacts, and documents relating to the American West and Texas.
Opened in 2015 and assembled by J.P. and Mary Jon Bryan, the collection spans more than 12,000 years, with pieces ranging from ancient cultural artifacts from Native Americans to modern twenty-first-century pieces.
With approximately 70,000 items in total, the collection notably includes more than 20,000 rare books and 30,000 documents in German, Spanish, English, and French.
While you’re there check out the collection’s three dozen saddles; over 250 antique firearms; several hundred spurs; a large collection of fine art, religious art, folk art, and portraits; exceedingly rare maps and artifacts, such as “cowboy” chaps; Native American stone tools and arrowheads; and even a Spanish mission bell.
In addition to its permanent galleries, the Museum also includes a space for rotating special exhibits, a library, archive, and also offers self-guided tours.
The Bryan Museum in Galveston
- Location: 1315 21st St, Galveston, TX 77550
- Hours: Thursday to Monday 11am to 4pm; closed Tuesday and Wednesday
- Parking: Free street parking is available in the surrounding area
- Admission: General admission is $14; $10 for seniors ages 65+, military, and students with valid ID; $4 for children ages 6 to 12; free for children 5 and younger. Click here for more information on admission.
