Bullock Texas State History Museum

Diving into Texas' past doesn't require a time machine, just a visit to the Bullock Texas State History Museum in Austin. 

This landmark is a storytelling arena where the tales of Texas unfold through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and screenings. Opened to the public in 2001, it's a tribute to the state's complex and thrilling saga. The Bullock Texas State History Museum engages visitors in the epic story of Texas from its earliest inhabitants to the modern day.

Spanning three floors, the Bullock Museum is home to more than 500 artifacts, alongside rotating exhibits ensuring something new with every visit. 

Imagine walking through a reconstructed 17th-century shipwreck, standing beside a towering oil derrick, or exploring the contributions of Tejanos to the Texan identity. 

Designed for history buffs and curious minds of all ages, the Bullock Texas State History Museum goes beyond traditional exhibits. It hosts the Texas Spirit Theater, offering an interactive experience capturing the pioneering spirit of Texas. 

With an IMAX Theatre on site, visitors can be whisked away on cinematic journeys that complement the historical narratives found throughout the museum.

Every aspect of the Bullock Texas State History Museum is thoughtfully tied to the essence of Texas history. From its limestone exterior echoing the state's natural resources to the star at the museum's center representing the Lone Star State, making a visit here on an Austin visit essential. 

Fun Facts & Cool Features

One of the standout features of the Bullock Texas State History Museum is the La Belle shipwreck exhibit. This 17th-century French vessel, led by explorer La Salle, sank in Matagorda Bay, and its recovery in the '90s was a groundbreaking archaeological feat. The museum displays the ship's remnants and offers an interactive excavation site, providing a hands-on experience in maritime archaeology.

Another fascinating aspect is the museum's vast collection of Texas Revolution artifacts, including the iconic "Come and Take It" cannon. This cannon played a pivotal role in the Battle of Gonzales and symbolizes the defiant spirit of Texan settlers in their fight for independence from Mexico. 

Visiting the Bullock Texas State History Museum is essential to any Austin vacation. It's a trip through time and an interactive experience that engages the mind and stimulates curiosity. The proximity of the Texas Science & Natural History Museum and the Blanton Museum of Art adds depth to your Texas adventure. 

Whether it's marveling at the artifacts that shaped the state, experiencing history in the immersive theaters, or exploring the diverse influences that have shaped Texas, the Bullock Texas State History Museum connects guests with the spirit of Texas, making it an unforgettable addition to your Austin adventure.

Getting There

Here are step-by-step driving directions:

• Start on Congress Avenue, heading north towards the Capitol.
• Make a slight right onto East 11th Street.
• Continue for half a mile, then turn left onto North Congress Avenue.
• After 0.3 miles, turn right onto West Martin Luther King Jr Boulevard.
• Drive for another 0.4 miles; the Bullock Texas State History Museum will be on your right.
• Address: 1800 Congress Avenue, Austin, TX 78701

Cost

Here are the current costs of visiting the Bullock Texas State History Museum:

• Adults (18-64): $13
• Seniors (65+): $11
• College Students (with ID): $11
• Youth (4-17): $9
• Children under 4: Free
• Military (with ID): Free

Prices are subject to change; check their website for updates.