Attractions in Goliad

For a town its size, Goliad punches well above its weight when it comes to travel-worthy attractions. That's due, in no small part, to the part it played in Texas' battle for independence. But there's more than just the infamous fort from the Goliad massacre. There are also two Spanish missions, a battleground, a 19th-century courthouse, a nine-block historic district, the San Antonio River, and more. With over 60 historic markers scattered across the county, history buffs will have their work—or play—cut out for them.

Presidio La Bahía

The Presidio La Bahía isn't just an old fort; it's the only fully restored Spanish presidio west of the Mississippi River. The presidio served as a major military post for almost 100 years, but is best known for its part in the Goliad massacre. Colonel Fannin and more than 300 of his men were executed by Mexican forces after surrendering. This tragedy led to the battle cry that echoed through the state, the country, and through time: "Remember the Alamo! Remember Goliad!" The fort and its chapel are open for visitation year-round.

217 Loop 71 Goliad, TX 77963
(361) 645-3752

Goliad State Park & Historic Site

On the banks of the San Antonio River is the Goliad State Park & Historic Site. It's at this park where you'll find the restored Spanish Colonial Mission Espíritu Santo, rebuilt in the 1930s and furnished to reflect how it looked during its heyday. Being a state park, the area also includes plenty of campgrounds, spots to fish in the river, and launching points for kayaks.

108 Park Road 6 Goliad, TX 77963
(361) 645-3405

Mission Nuestra Señora del Rosario

While no longer standing, the ruins of the Mission Nuestra Señora del Rosario remain a popular destination for history buffs and Texans looking to connect more deeply with their state. Historical markers around the area will walk you through the story of this once active place of worship from the 1750s.

1958-5802 US-59, Goliad, TX 77963
(361) 645-3454

Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site

Right next to Presidio La Bahía—sharing the same parking lot, in fact—is the Zaragoza Birthplace State Historic Site. If you love celebrating Cinco de Mayo each year, you can thank Ignacio Zaragoza. He was the Mexican general that defeated the much more imposing French army at the Battle of Puebla. At this small museum, you'll find a reconstructed house, an outdoor amphitheater, plenty of reading material, and a bronze statue of Zaragoza.

217 Loop 71 Goliad, TX 77963
(361) 645-3405

Fannin Battleground State Historic Site

If you're a history buff or a dad helping his kids better visualize their social studies homework, the Fannin Battleground State Historic Site is the spot where Fannin and his men surrendered to Mexican forces. Fannin thought he and his men would be taken prisoner, but they were instead executed due to orders from Gen. Santa Anna. At this hallowed site, you'll find a striking stone obelisk at the center of circular walkways commemorating the battle and the memories of the men who were killed. Also on the grounds are a small exhibit with artifacts from the battle and a shaded picnic area for a quick lunch.

734 FM 2506 Fannin, TX 77960
(361) 645-3752

Market House Museum

If you're admiring the sites in Goliad's historic downtown, you're bound to pass by the Market House Museum at some point. And if you're passing by, you might as well walk in, because this is where you'll find exhibits on the history of the town that go beyond its place in the Goliad massacre. Among its most popular attractions are its collection of historic maps and its antique static electricity generator. If you're the kind of person who likes a little direction when exploring a town, you can also pick up a walking map for the historic district.

205 S. Market Street Goliad, TX 77963
(361) 645-8767

Goliad County Courthouse

The centerpiece of Goliad's historic downtown, the Goliad County Courthouse is open to the public all year long. From the outside, you can admire its ornate aesthetic, constructed of limestone and brick, very much of a bygone age where aesthetics mattered as much as utility. Inside, you can admire the main courtroom and arched ceilings that will truly make you feel like you've gone back in time.

127 N. Courthouse Square Goliad, TX 77963
(361) 645-3294

Goliad Historic Downtown District

Listed on the National Register of Historic Places, the Goliad Historic Downtown District is nine blocks of buildings that date back to the turn of the century—the one before last. Pick up a walking tour map from the Market House Museum and help yourself to a leisurely afternoon walk that's both historic and involves shopping at boutiques. You may also come across the legendary oak trees growing right in the middle of the paved street. In case you're wondering, the trees were there first.

Courthouse Square Goliad, TX 77963

Angel of Goliad Hike and Bike Trail

Not every hike and bike trail has a story this good. The Angel of Goliad Hike and Bike Trail gets its name from Francita Alavez, who intervened during the Goliad massacre and managed to save the lives of some Texan soldiers. Her bravery has been forever memorialized with a statue just a short walk from the Presidio La Bahía. The trail that shares her name starts just off courthouse square and takes you along the San Antonio River, all the way to Goliad State Park.

Courthouse Square Goliad, TX 77963