San Angelo, Texas is a charming and vibrant city located on the banks of the Concho River in West Central Texas.
Popularly known as the “Oasis of West Texas,” San Angelo showcases its classic western charm throughout the community.
San Angelo is known for its cultural attractions including art galleries, shopping at local boutiques, and an abundance of restaurants.
Also Read: 25 Best Things to do in West Texas
The city has so much to offer visitors, ranging from incredible outdoor activities such as canoeing or fishing on the river and visiting nearby state parks, to a plethora of small museums that preserve San Angelo’s history.
Things to do in San Angelo, TX
San Angelo is a vibrant city in West Central Texas.
Located approximately 180 miles west of Austin, the city lies at the crossroads of two major highways and is home to over 100,000 people.
San Angelo has become known for its beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities, making it an ideal destination for visitors looking to explore a unique part of Texas.
Here are the best things to do in San Angelo on your next trip.
Explore Historic downtown San Angelo
San Angelo’s downtown area is full of historic buildings and attractions, making it the perfect place to explore.
Take a walk along the Concho River and soak in the historic architecture of downtown.
Iconic buildings include the San Angelo City Halldisplaying Moderne style of architecture and the Cactus Hotel building.
There are also plenty of restaurants, boutiques, and art galleries located in the area.
Take pictures galore at Paintbrush Alley
San Angelo is known as the Art Capital of West Texas and there’s no better place to see it than at Paintbrush Alley.
This beautiful alleyway is lined with brightly painted murals made by local artists.
It’s a great place to take pictures and explore the city’s art culture.
Check out the San Angelo Visitor Center
Head to the San Angelo Visitor Center to get all the information you need to make your trip a success.
Here, you’ll find helpful staff that can recommend activities and attractions in the area.
You can also pick up brochures with detailed maps of the city and its surroundings.
Visit the Railway Museum of San Angelo
The San Angelo Railway Museum is one of the most fun things to do in San Angelo for families.
The museum takes visitors on a journey through the history of rail transportation in San Angelo and features several locomotives and carriages from bygone eras.
The museum also features interactive exhibits, allowing you to get an up-close look at the city’s railroad history.
Take a stroll on the Concho Riverwalk
The Concho Riverwalk is a great place to relax and appreciate the beauty of San Angelo.
This scenic walkway runs along the banks of the Concho River and makes for a great space for visitors to explore.
You can take in views of the river, have a picnic on the banks, or simply enjoy the public art on the trails.
See the collection at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts
The San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts is home to an impressive collection of fine art from around the world.
Visitors can explore various art periods and styles, from contemporary works to ancient artifacts.
The museum’s permanent collection includes pieces from Germany, Italy, Greece, Japan, India, Africa and more.
Chicken Farm Art Center – so much fun!
For a unique and fun activity, check out the Chicken Farm Art Center.
This quirky place, that was once a chicken farm, is now an arts center filled with art galleries, murals, and a haven for artists of all kinds.
During your visit you can explore the galleries, buy unique art products, and have a fun relaxing time.
The center also hosts various arts-related events, such as concerts, film screenings, and art classes.
Step back into the past at Fort Concho Historic Site
The Fort Concho Historic Site is another must-see attraction in San Angelo.
This 19th century army fort was once an important military outpost on the Texas frontier and now serves as a museum that educates visitors about its history.
Visitors can explore preserved buildings, take guided tours, and learn all about the fort’s past.
There are also interactive activities, such as living history demonstrations, reenactments and more.
Visit the Pop Art Museum
The Pop Art Museum is a unique and fun way to experience the art scene in San Angelo.
This museum features classic American pop culture from the 1950s through the present day, including vintage toys, movie posters, comic books, and more.
Visitors can also explore interactive displays and take part in art making activities.
Shop at the San Angelo Farmers Market
The San Angelo Farmers Market is the perfect place for visitors to buy fresh, locally grown produce and other products.
Here you can find a variety of locally made items from honey to handmade soaps.
You can also pick up unique gifts such as jewelry and pottery, all while supporting local farmers and artisans.
Explore the city’s sordid past at Miss Hattie’s Bordello Museum
For a unique and educational experience, visit the Miss Hattie’s Bordello Museum.
This museum tells the story of San Angelo’s colorful past through exhibits on the city’s brothels and madams.
Visitors can learn all about the city’s history of prostitution and see artifacts from bygone eras.
See the beautiful International Waterlily Collection at Civic League Park
Civic League Park is home to the International Waterlily Collection, a 2.5 acre water garden filled with colorful and fragrant flowers.
This public park also features a playground, picnic areas, walking trails and more.
It’s the perfect place for visitors to relax and enjoy the beauty of nature.
See the animals at the San Angelo Nature Center
The San Angelo Nature Center is a great place for visitors to learn about the natural world.
This nature center features animal exhibits, interactive activities and educational programs that show off the beauty of the region’s wildlife.
Visitors can explore marshlands, forests and more, as well as get up close with wildlife like bison, turkeys, and deer.
Go hiking at San Angelo State Park
The San Angelo State Park is a great place for visitors to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities.
This park has over 8,000 acres of prairies and woodlands, as well as trails for hiking, biking, horseback riding, and wildlife viewing.
Visitors can also enjoy fishing and swimming in the park’s two lakes.
Go stargazing at San Angelo State University Planetarium
The San Angelo State University Planetarium is a great place for visitors to explore their interest in astronomy.
The planetarium is home to a state-of-the-art digital projection system, which allows visitors to explore the night sky and learn more about the stars and planets.
Visitors can also take part in special events such as stargazing parties and shows.
What are your favorite things to do in San Angelo, Texas? Let us know below.
