From the collections that support the Institute’s mission to the creative, contemporary exhibits, gain a better understanding and appreciation for Texas’ culture and Texans throughout your 2 hour tour of the Institute of Texan Cultures.
Collections
From artifacts that have been donated by Texan families to those which have been found by members of the Institute’s research team, the permanent artifacts displayed at the museum connect people from the past to people in the present. Admire an assortment of artifacts that reflect Texan culture, many of the items in the collections date back to prehistoric times.
Exhibits
Learn about a variety of cultures that have contributed to the development of Texas and shaped it into what it is today. Unique exhibits have been designed to share Texan culture through engaging, interactive displays.
Fiesta Medal Mania
Legend has it that Fiesta Medal Mania was a tradition started by King Antonio XLIX in the early 1970s. The tradition began when the king punched holes in 200 gold coins and strung them with ribbon to give out at Fiesta events. In honor of the annual event, the Institute of Texan Cultures proudly displays their collection of colorful medals. The different designs, colors and companies that produce these medals each year will amaze you. For Texans this tradition isn’t just about the medals, but about the memories and emotion they have invested in the festival year after year.
Girl Power!
Take a unique look into the different generations of the Girl Scouts. Girl Power! gives visitors the opportunity to learn about the values and traditions upheld by this longstanding organization that started out with 18 members over a century ago.
Made In Texas
Made In Texas is a fun exhibit that takes a look at the influence Texas has had on different places throughout the world. From products like jalapeño jelly to unusual Texan ideas, discover objects, concepts and expressions that have stemmed from Texan culture.
Progression of a Dream: Exploration of the Civil Rights
Take an intimate look at photos captured by the students at the University of Texas at San Antonio during their exploration of the Civil Rights Movement. From the Slave Haven Underground Railroad to the Mason Temple where Martin Luther King Jr. delivered his “mountaintop” speech, the emotions of the photographs speak for themselves.
Why We Came: The Immigration Experience
Learn what it is like to immigrate. Step onto a life-size board game and journey alongside other immigrants as you discover the many hardships and experiences you are faced with as an immigrant today. Whether you’re a born and raised Texan or recently moved to the state, share your unique story of how you became a Texan with the Institute of Texan Cultures.
From magnets to porcelain cowboy boots, t-shirts to books, the Institute of Texan Cultures Gift Shop has all the Texas paraphernalia imaginable. Whether you’re trying to find the perfect piece of Texas to take home for yourself, or a souvenir for a loved one, there is something everyone can enjoy in the gift shop.