Things to Do in Gonzales, Texas

March 9, 2023

things to do in gonzales tx

If you are visiting Gonzales, Texas, there are plenty of things to do. From historic homes to scenic parks, there is something for everyone.

One of the best ways to experience Gonzales's rich history is by visiting Pioneer Village, an outdoor living history museum. It features a collection of old buildings that have been furnished to resemble what they were during their heydays.

1. Visit the Guadalupe River State Park

The Guadalupe River State Park straddles four miles of sparklingly clear river frontage. It’s a popular spot for tubing, kayaking and swimming.

In addition to the river, this natural oasis features hiking and biking trails. It also boasts a hands-on Discovery Center.

The bald cypress tree-lined banks of the Guadalupe River are one of the park’s most impressive natural features. Other trees include sycamore, pecan, live oak, Ashe juniper and Texas persimmon.

2. Go on a Ghost Tour

The first shots of the Texas Revolution rang out in Gonzales, and its people played a key role in helping the Lone Star State achieve freedom. This proud past is retold throughout the town, including in the Gonzales Memorial Museum.

If you're looking for a little thrill this Halloween, go on a Ghost Tour of the city's most haunted sites. These tours are packed with hair-raising stories and historical insight, as well as paranormal investigation.

3. Go on a Driving or Walking Home Tour

Gonzales is a small town with big history (the first shots of the Texas Revolution were fired here). Follow a historic walking or driving tour to see some of the beautiful homes.

You'll also want to visit the Old Jail Museum. This imposing building held prisoners for nearly a century before it closed.

4. Visit the Texas Heroes Square

Gonzales is a charming town that offers much to do, no matter your interests. Museums, historic homes and theaters, public squares, and a scenic state park are among the many attractions.

You can explore the history of Gonzales and its role in the Texas Revolution at the Texas Heroes Square. This public space honors the men of Gonzales who fought for Texas independence during the Texas Revolution.

5. Visit the DuBose Collection

Dedicated to the art of gun collecting, the DuBose Collection is one of the largest private collections in Texas. Curated by Charles DuBose, a Gonzales native, this museum features more than 700 firearms.

History lovers will drool over the numerous signed letters from Sam Houston, and all of the other interesting memorabilia hanging on the walls of this historic house. This is one of the most unique places in Gonzales, and a great place to learn more about our town’s rich past.

6. Visit the Mary Elizabeth Tinsley Texas History Center

The Mary Elizabeth Tinsley Texas History Center is a place where you can see a large collection of books about Texas history. The center also features the largest private collection of original documents from the Texas Revolution era on display.

The museum features biographies of Gonzales Town residents who lived here prior to the Revolution or who fought for Texas independence. It also showcases the history of barbed wire and other tools used by settlers.

7. Visit the Eggleston House

A dog-run style cabin built in the 1840s, Eggleston House provides an authentic glimpse into Texas history. It’s a perfect place to learn about how life was like in Gonzales in the past.

Another highlight of the house is its children’s garden, where local kids grow their own food and harvest it themselves. This is a great activity for families to do together.

8. Visit the J.B. Wells House Museum

Located in the town that was home to the first battle of the Texas Revolution, Gonzales is a must-visit for anyone who loves history. It is home to a multitude of historical attractions, including the J.B. Wells House Museum, the Eggleston House, and the Gonzales County Jail Museum.

Visit the 15-room mansion that was built in 1885, and explore other historic structures on the southern outskirts of Gonzales. You can also check out the Eggleston House, a two-room dogtrot style cabin that is the oldest structure in the city.

9. Visit the Immortal 32 Museum

The Immortal 32 Museum is located in the heart of Gonzales' Texas History Museum District. This historic collection of museums is the first of its kind in Texas and includes the cannon that fired the first shot of the Texas Revolution, as well as a 19th-century jail and a log cabin.

This is a must-visit attraction, especially for history buffs. You'll find period rifles, ammunition and uniforms here, along with a macabre favorite - a physician's amputation kit.

10. Visit the Gonzales Memorial Library

The Gonzales Memorial Library is a great place to find books and explore the town's history. Exhibits include the "Come and Take It" cannon, which sparked the Texas Revolution, as well as artifacts from the town's founders.

The library also has a music and media room where kids can create their own music or watch a movie. It's a fun place to spend a few hours on a rainy day or just relax.

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