WHETHER YOU HAVE an hour or an entire day, the San Jacinto Museum and Battlefield is a must-see for both locals and visitors to the Houston area. Among the fascinating and fun things to experience are:
Walk the Battlefield and relive the decisive battle for Texas Independence that established the Republic of Texas and made possible the expansion of the West. Granite markers designate locations of the Texian and Mexican camps, as well as the line of the advance by Texian forces. In 1894, a committee of veterans of the Battle of San Jacinto located important sites of the Battle's events. Metal pipes were placed to designate these sites which were replaced in 1912 by granite boulders by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, San Jacinto Chapter. Take a tour of these markers on the ground or on our virtual map. 3523 Independence Pkwy, La Porte, TX 77571
From the 1,210-foot-long marsh trail and boardwalk, you can view the native prairie, tidal marsh, and bottomland forest as it appeared at the time of the Battle of San Jacinto. Visitors will spot coastal birds like the Roseate Spoonbill, Wood Stork, Mottled Duck, Osprey, White Pelican and other wetland denizens such as the River Otter. The boardwalk trailhead is located on the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site off Monument Circle just north of the monument.
Throughout the grounds, you’ll find picnic tables, grills and water faucets. An enclosed picnic pavilion overlooking Buffalo Bayou is available by reservation.
Many people see the monument and museum in the morning, take a picnic lunch and enjoy the park or nearby golf course in the afternoon, and top off the day with dinner at the nearby Monument Inn.
Juan Seguin Park is located at 4407 Independence Parkway in La Porte, near the confluence of Buffalo Bayou and the San Jacinto River. The park is named after Juan Nepomuceno Seguin, a commander who fought in the Battle of San Jacinto and a Tejano hero of the Texas Revolution. The park features a patriotic-themed playground, a large open-air pavilion, a boardwalk overlooking the ship channel, picnic areas, native grasses and plantings, an amphitheater, walking trails, and life-sized steel graphics depicting the area’s rich history. Juan Seguin Park is open daily from 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m.
The eight Texians who died in battle or shortly thereafter were buried on the battlefield. The graves, with the exception of that of Benjamin R. Brigham which had a headstone, were marked by wooden stakes. When a 15 ½-foot marble shaft was erected on the graves in 1881, that of Brigham was the only one that could be located, as the stakes had decayed. The other graves were known to be situated in a row next to Brigham’s grave. The obelisk lists the men buried nearby, as well as the name of a ninth man, who died less than a month after the battle: Benjamin Rice Brigham, Lemuel Stockton Blakey, John C. Hale, George A. Lamb, Dr. Wm. Junius Mottley, Mathias Cooper, Thomas Patton Fowle, Ashley R. Stephens, and Olwyn J. Trask. A number of other markers from the second half of the 19th century and early 20th century are nearby.
The cemetery, located near the Ship Channel, honors the notable Lorenzo de Zavala, his descendants, and key figures in Texas history, including his friend, General Manuel Fernández Castrillón of the Mexican Army, who was killed at the Battle of San Jacinto. Zavala was a signer of the Texas Declaration of Independence and the Republic of Texas Constitution. He personally designed the flag of the new republic, helped write the new constitution, and served as vice president under the provisional government. Zavala County was named in his honor. Nestled under centuries-old oak trees, the gravesite features weathered monuments that commemorate Zavala’s steadfast commitment to Texas's legacy and inspire future generations. Directions.
The Daughters of the Republic of Texas Battlefield Memorial Sundial, also located in De Zavala Plaza, honors nine fallen Texian soldiers with their names engraved on its base. Dedicated on April 21, 1940, this armillary sphere combines ancient astronomy and time-telling with beautifully engraved zodiac signs. Commissioned by the San Jacinto Chapter of the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, this unique sundial not only pays tribute to history but is a testament to the beauty of celestial spheres.
Relax for a while on the banks of the bustling Houston Ship Channel, and watch awe-inspiring vessels, including international container ships and tankers, as they navigate this impressive industrial artery. Observe the unique urban ecosystems and don't forget your camera to capture the unforgettable experience of watching these massive vessels contribute to Houston's economic growth and global prominence.
Escape to the enchanting Houston Botanic Garden, a lush oasis showcasing captivating plant displays, tranquil water features, and educational exhibits. Stroll through diverse global gardens, explore native Texas habitats, and admire the striking beauty of seasonal blooms. Rediscover your connection to nature at this peaceful sanctuary, perfect for visitors of all ages seeking relaxation, inspiration, and a memorable experience amid Houston’s green haven. The garden is within a 20-minute drive from the Battleground at One Botanic Lane, Houston, Texas 77017. Directions.
Located just 24 minutes from the Battleground, the Kemah Boardwalk offers amusement rides, game arcades, waterfront restaurants, and live entertainment. It overlooks Galveston Bay and has a variety of activities for the whole family. Some of the highlights include the Boardwalk Bullet roller coaster, the Aquarium where you can feed manta rays, and the Boardwalk FantaSea yacht that offers dinner cruises. The Kemah Boardwalk is open daily from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. General admission is free. Directions.
Explore Texas aviation history at the Lone Star Flight Museum. Enjoy the impressive collection of more than 1,500 artifacts and 40 historically significant aircraft, many of which are still flying! Learn about the science of flight through interactive exhibits, go on thrilling simulator rides, and engage in educational programs. Located about a half-hour from the San Jacinto Monument, this top-rated museum brings history, technology, and adventure under one roof. Experience flight, past, and present, in a whole new way! Directions.
Just twenty minutes from downtown Houston, locals and out-of-towners alike can turn an afternoon daytrip into a a whole weekend of family fun. There is plenty to see and do close by.
