Briscoe Western Art Museum image

Briscoe Western Art Museum

Tourist attraction Event venue Art museum

One of the Top rated Art museums in San Antonio


Address

210 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States

Website

www.briscoemuseum.org

Contact

+1 210-299-4499

Rating on Google Maps

4.70 (1.8K reviews)

Open on Google Maps

Working Hours

  • Sunday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Monday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Tuesday: Closed
  • Wednesday: Closed
  • Thursday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Friday: 10 am to 5 pm
  • Saturday: 10 am to 5 pm

Featured Reviews


Frequently mentioned in reviews: museum (28) Texas (18) history (16) visit (11) time (9) Antonio (9) pieces (9) enjoyed (7) exhibit (7) recommend (7)
Reviews are sorted by relevance, prioritizing the most helpful and insightful feedback at the top for easier reference.
  • 5/5 Jorge V. 9 months ago on Google • 286 reviews
    We had an amazing time at this year's National Day of the Cowboy weekend event! We were there for about 4-5 hours of non-stop fun and activities for the kids. We all enjoyed beautiful works of art and learned about Texas history. All the activities had plenty of supplies, were not crowded, and had super helpful museum employees and volunteers! We are definitely looking forward to visiting for the next event (in Oct?), and considering membership after learning it also includes Witte Museum (and others) entrance. We'll definitely be back!
    4 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Gayle D. 1 year ago on Google
    What a way to spend 107 degree day outside . Very nicely presented. Their museum offers more than just artwork . It highlighted the Texas / Mexican history of our state. A big " thank you " to all the generous donors for sharing some of the amazing artwork as well as the wonderful historical artifacts. Go see it while this particular exhibit is still on display.
    6 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Casey C. 1 year ago on Google • 416 reviews
    🐴 Lovely Museum - Quiet, Laid-back, and Thought-Provoking🐴 I’ve been in some museums that overwhelm the senses. The sheer scale, number of exhibits, and display style overstimulates and exhausts, rather than stimulates and inspires. This museum provides the right balance of space and quantity, and varies displays by medium—sculpture, canvas, artifact, model, etc. A giant miniature recreation of the Battle of the Alamo (complete with interactive display panel) caught my eye, as did the number of gorgeous, larger than life statues of famous figures from Texan history. One wing of the museum is dedicated to the jaw-dropping digital photography of Thomas D. Mangelsen. I could sit in that gallery for hours, soaking in the images of wildlife from across the globe (no photography of it allowed, so you’ll find yourself trying to permanently capture it with your mind’s eye). The entry fee is very affordable. Even if museums aren’t usually on your to-see list, I recommend trying this one. You can tour it in just an hour or two, and the exhibits are lovely. There’s a little something for everyone, whether you’re a history buff, an art collector, or an animal and nature lover.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Carina J. 6 months ago on Google • 331 reviews
    I've visited this museum a couple of times over the years. It is very enjoyable to walk around and look at all the artwork. I highly recommend this museum to visitors and locals alike.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Faith T. 11 months ago on Google
    HIGHLY RECOMMEND!!! This place is so super cool (and inexpensive!). The history of the Indians, western era of Texas, the Alamo, and history of the six flags of Texas was super educational in a visual way (which is my jam!!) Absolutely enjoyed every second of it!!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Katelyn M. 8 months ago on Google • 15 reviews
    I’m only sharing a few photos of this place because I think it’s important for people to come and see the history for themselves. We came here as a little family outing on a Thursday evening, about 2 hours before close and we had the whole place to ourselves basically! There’s tons to read and look at. My favorite attraction was the interactive map of the Alamo. You’re able to read about important figures and light up where they are to find them. It was really fun and very informative. The ONLY thing I would change would be to add more context for some things. I loved the pictures and sculptures but a lot of them didn’t give any background. Just that they were donated from someone/somewhere. However, that aside there’s still a bunch of information on other things through the museum. They offer Military/Veterans discount!!
    3 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Roy D. 10 months ago on Google
    Absolute wonder of a museum. Classic and contemporary artists. We can on the free “Day of the Cowboy”, but there is usually an admission price for tix. This place is worth it; the art and artifacts are worth going again and again.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Omar A. M. 2 years ago on Google
    The Briscoe Western Art Museum is an oasis in the desert, and it's adjacent to the famous San Antonio Riverwalk. The temperature was hot, and our son, Sadiq M., the newly minted Airman, wanted to cool down and experience a culture other than military culture. So, We decided to visit Briscoe on our way to our hotel, and we are happy we did. Before entering, our daughter, a high school senior, started grumbling saying museums were boring. More importantly, she left Briscoe singing its praise for the air conditioning and the Art. The Briscoe was 100% satisfying to us all. They offer the experience without cost to Airmen and their families. We love it, and I am sure you will love it too. When you visit, tell them Omar sent you.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 David E. Z. 2 years ago on Google
    Loved being there, beautiful exhibit, tells some of the history of the old west and Texas! Very friendly and knowledgeable staff, look forward to next visit.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Juan Alfonso N. 2 years ago on Google
    We happened on the Briscoe by chance while our parents were visiting from out of town and were taking the scenic boat ride. What a gem this museum is and too bad we were short on time but we enjoyed all the rich history on display. We will come back to slowly walk through every floor and have a chance to really enjoy what the Briscoe has to offer. Thoroughly impressed and we can't wait to go back.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 T. J. 10 months ago on Google
    Visited Saturday afternoon. Active duty get in for free with Military ID. The front desk clerk resembled a college brat with zero people skills. The security guard, however was very helpful and informative. Pointed me to a lot of interesting exhibits and even suggested a book from their shop. Thank you, Mr. Sullivan!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Doreen J. 2 years ago on Google
    This was our first stop during our week long visit to San Antonio. It set the stage to explore life in the west by exposing us to striking art and incredible history. I would highly recommend this gem!
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Ricardo 1 year ago on Google
    Great museum with tons of historical artifacts and detailed information. I enjoyed looking at the different sculptures of famous Native Americans during the early years of America. It was also interesting to learn about the different spurs and saddles used by cowboys back then. It is so much to learn and to see here. I kinda wish they would allow you to get in the stagecoach but I understand they want to keep it in mint condition. If you are into western and cowboys I would recommend coming, even if you’re not, you will still enjoy yourself.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 4/5 Brad Y. 1 year ago on Google
    This is a nice little museum, right on the San Antonio River walk. Small enough to see it all in an hour or two, it has a decent amount of newer western art. There are also really interesting displays of western gear including firearms and saddles.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Adati T. 2 years ago on Google
    Very lovely museum! The staff at the front desk are super awesome! Especially Eduardo. The location is very clean and easy to navigate. There is a small library inside that has printing and good sitting. I think the museum is generally a good place to visit if you live in town and want to have a change of scenery when you are working.
    2 people found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 curtis d. 8 months ago on Google • 88 reviews
    I need to go back a 2nd and 3rd time. This is how I discover all the exquisite little details and mores of our cowboys settling Texas . So much information. So much color but so little time. And if you live here you visit free, y'all!!!!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Lucille T. 5 months ago on Google • 60 reviews
    It took awhile, but I finally got to see this gem. It was well worth the wait with so much beautiful art and so much excellent information. I could probably spend the whole day here but had to get the visit done in about 3 hours. The paintings (both classic and contemporary) and the many artifacts are fascinating. And the interactive Alamo exhibit is awesome. It's a great way to explore the history of the American West and often features special exhibits that highlight the work of different artists.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Duane H. 7 months ago on Google • 37 reviews
    If you are looking to understand a bit more of our history here in Texas, the different cultures and battles fought over centuries, this family-friendly museum is one I Highly recommend. Only 10yrs old, and housed where the previous Circus museum, and original San Antonio Library- they still have a small section on the first floor- existed, this Western Art Museum offers a well-rounded experience of art and culture that is Texas, and surrounding areas, that is worth the visit and time. And Brand New, opened on September 29th, the 150yr Cowboy tradition exhibition: Anouk Masson Krantz: “American Cowboys” Now through January 22, 2024 Showcasing the enduring traditions around ranching and rodeo life from an outsider’s perspective, Anouk Masson Krantz: “American Cowboys” reflects the greatest virtues of America’s heritage. Krantz captures the lives and surroundings of American cowboys with 100 images from her solo journey across America, providing an inspiring homage to the pioneering spirit and its enduring strength that is alive and well in today’s modern world.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Sara 11 months ago on Google
    An absolutely wonderful museum! Very informative with lots of important artifacts and artworks. I was very impressed. They even had intriguing questions and interactive pieces to help you think critically about art. I had a fantastic visit from beginning to end.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Mlchael B. 2 years ago on Google
    Stopped in for a visit to Night of the Artists a show of leading western work. The museum and the exhibit was exceptional. Something of a surprise because the museum's brochure had not done it justice. If you enjoy Western Art the museum is a must see when at the San Antonio River Walk.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Jenny F. 2 years ago on Google
    We just moved in to Texas last year, so technically I can still consider that we are pretty new to the culture and environment. We are slowly adopting and we like what Texas is offering. Seeing what Texas culture and history through Briscoe's arts was really educating - you do not have to research as they will provide and picturesque how was it like and how Texas become Texas now. The 3 story museum was well designed from exterior to interior and they maximize every space to tell stories. From the entrance you will be greeted and assist to maximize your visit. The place has stairs and an elevator, clean restroom, water fountain, long chair in every floor to take a rest and appreciate the beautiful arts. They also have a store where you can buy varieties of souvenirs like ref magnet, cup, mug, scarf, book, figurine, jewelries, spurs and a lot more. My favorite part here is the 3rd floor sculpture of JOHN COLEMAN, the 1876, Gall - Sitting Bull - Crazy Horse, and Z.S Liang, Victory Dance - Little Bighorn, and the 2nd floor art of Curt Walters, the Cimmerian Whispers. We enjoyed every story that tells the rich history of Texas. I surely left happy and educated about what happened in the past (Texas). More pictures will be posted on our instagram @roadtwoadventure and video will be posted on our TikTok @roadtwoadventure!
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Louis and E. 11 months ago on Google
    If you enjoy art with a South Western flavor the Briscoe Western Art Museum is for you. Hundreds of works of art but also a Stage Coach, chuck wagon and so much more. This museum is the story of the old west from so many perspectives. Almost anyone will find thing of interest here. Highly recommended.
    1 person found this review helpful 👍

  • 5/5 Vito S. B. 7 months ago on Google • 37 reviews
    Formerly the Old San Antonio Library, this museum has some really beautifully displayed pieces that are not only put on really good mounts but are easy to view and interact with. I wish some were interpreted a bit more, I know it's technically an art museum, but just a bit more context on some of the pieces would be great. Furthermore, some history and interpretation of the building itself would be good, lots of architectural styles in one space, from Art Deco Facade, Neo-Classical Lobby, Baroque Celing, etc. That being said, it is definitely worth the admission price - plan on spending more than an hour there, the loads of wonderfully curated objects there.

  • 5/5 Anahi A. 6 months ago on Google • 37 reviews
    We were visiting the city and walked by the museum saw a sign of free entrance that day so we give it a chance. The place is beautiful and very interesting, we enjoyed it very much and comoletely recommend it!

  • 5/5 Eric H. 9 months ago on Google • 24 reviews
    Truly underrated muse m treasure in SA. While not a huge musuem, it's packed nicely with interesting artifacts that grabs the attention of young kids like mine. Loved the diorama of the Alamo too!

  • 5/5 max v. 1 year ago on Google
    Very fascinating place! All the exhibits are very nice lots to see in the building itself and in the outside sculpture garden. Loved their display on spurs from across the southwest US and I did learn some new things along the way! Security guard at the museum was super friendly as well and pointed out the outside sculpture garden that I would've totally missed. Great experience and a worthwhile stop at San Antonio.

  • 5/5 Victoria O. 1 year ago on Google
    Such a fantastic museum (so many different styles of western art) and something you definitely don’t see everywhere. I loved the exhibit that ended today and enjoyed looking through the museum. Military get in free too which is great!

  • 5/5 Erica D. 1 year ago on Google
    the collection represents Texas, the west, the natives of the area, and has a gallery representing women of the west. Excellent collection. Enjoyed the special exhibit that was also for sale. Beautiful work. A must-see for art lovers when visiting San Antonio.

  • 5/5 Daniel W. 1 year ago on Google
    Beautiful. Absolutely amazing artwork. Great place for a time of peace and quality. Pros: Great artwork, Friendly Staff and a cute little gift shop. Cons: Tickets: Around $12 for adults and like 8 for kids I believe.

  • 5/5 Benjamin M. 1 year ago on Google
    Museum is expertly curated with Texas related pieces as well as contemporary and traditional representations of Western artistry. It was nice to receive free admission for the whole family, especially since parking around the area averages $20 and the gift shop too easily detracts funds from my wallet.

  • 5/5 Andrea H. 1 year ago on Google
    Excellent museum if you are interested in western history. Lots of more “recent” pieces compared to a museum like MOMA in NYC but there are some older pieces too: old spurs, Santa Ana’s uniform, old furniture pieces, etc. a good blend of some unique pieces. Looks for special Saturday events that focus on family activities if you have children.

  • 5/5 Nidal J. 1 year ago on Google
    Wonderful art. Great bronze sculptures, paintings, and snap shots in time. Really amazing collections. The staff was very knowledgeable. Also James and Lindsey were extremely hospitable. We will be back and recommend this as a must see next time you are in San Antonio.

  • 5/5 Emily A. 1 year ago on Google
    Had a fantastic time here. A great collection of bright, history-rich pieces of art. Really loved the women of the west exhibit. The front desk staff gave me a great recommendation to get some Texas beer, if you're wondering it's the buckhorn. ❤️😁 Great gift shop too!


Call +1 210-299-4499 Open on Google Maps

Amenities


  • Accessibility
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible toilet
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible car park
    • ✓️ Wheelchair-accessible entrance

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