Texas Independence Trail Region Attractions

On October 2, 1835, a small group of Texian settlers fired the first shots of the Texas Revolution during the Battle of Gonzales. For the next six months, Texas’ revolutionary forces clashed with the Mexican army led by General Santa Anna in a struggle that forged a new nation. Experience the birth of Texas by exploring the Texas Independence Trail Region, a 28-county area that extends from the eastern fringe of San Antonio to the coastal town of Galveston. This area includes many of Texas’ most beloved historic sites, such as the Alamo and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Presidio La Bahia, and the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site. Beyond the major historical sites, you’ll find gorgeous courthouses nestled in charming town squares, beautiful painted churches, historic homes, scenic trails and highways, and so much more.

If you’re planning a road trip through the Texas Independence Trail Region, make sure to check out these historic attractions that tell the story of the Texas Revolution. However, these are just five of the many attractions within the region. Go to the Texas Independence Trail Region’s website for a full list of the things to see and do within this part of the Lone Star State. 

Fannin Battleground State Historic Site
Visit the hallowed grounds of the Battle of Coleto Creek, a clash between the retreating Texan forces of Colonel James W. Fannin and a pursuing Mexican army. After two days of fierce fighting, Fannin’s troops surrendered and were taken to Goliad, where they were executed on the orders of General Santa Anna. These events would inspire the battle cry “Remember Goliad!” that the revolutionary forces shouted during the Battle of San Jacinto. Today, the historic site features a monument for the men who fell during the battle, as well as an interpretive exhibit, playground, and picnic area.
734 FM 2506
Fannin, TX 77960
(512) 463-7948

Gonzales Memorial Museum
See the famous cannon that fired the first shots of the Texas Revolution and immerse yourself in the history of the Lone Star State at the Gonzales Memorial Museum. Along with the cannon, the art deco-style museum showcases period rifles, ammunition, uniforms, and even an amputation kit. There are also exhibits that tell the story of what life was like in Gonzales before the war, as well as the town’s role in the conflict.
414 Smith Street
Gonzales, TX 78629
(830) 672-6350

Presidio La Bahia
A tour of the Presidio La Bahia in Goliad is like stepping back in time. The beautifully restored walls and citadel of this stunning 18th-century Spanish fort provide a glimpse of how the structure appeared when it saw one of the most pivotal moments of the revolution: the Goliad Massacre. Today, the fort is both a Catholic church and a monument to the 342 men who were massacred here on March 27, 1836. More than 300 years of history are retold in the presidio, and annual living history presentations are held in March.
217 US-183
Goliad, TX 77963
(361) 645-3752

San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site
Explore the battlefield where Texas’ independence was at the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site. Discover the background and events of the battle, won by a surprise attack by General Sam Houston that led to the capture and surrender of General Santa Anna. These events, and more, are told through the interactive exhibits at the San Jacinto Museum of History, located within the 570-foot-tall San Jacinto Monument. Ascend to the top of the monument for a bird’s eye view of the battlefield. Then walk the nature trails or climb aboard the USS Texas, a World War II battleship docked near the monument.
3523 Independence Parkway
La Porte, TX 77571
(281) 479-2431

Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site
In the early days of March 1836, 59 delegates gathered in the prosperous town of Washington to establish the Republic of Texas, draft a formal constitution, and declare independence from Mexico. Relive this critical moment of the Lone Star State’s history at Washington-on-the-Brazos State Historic Site, home to the Star of the Republic Museum. Browse the museum’s displays that reflect the role African Americans played in the republic, and stop by the Barrington Living History Farm to see costumed interpreters provide insight into life in Texas 150 years ago.
12300 Park Road 12
Washington, TX 77880
(936) 878-2214