Fort Sam Houston
Fort Sam Houston Quadrangle and Museum is a hidden gem of the city of San Antonio, Texas. It’s easy to miss on the way downtown, but it offers a great view of the city from its hilltop location. The quadrangle was once home to the headquarters of Fort Sam Houston, which dates back to 1876. Today, visitors can enjoy an outdoor museum with 12 different galleries that cover military history, art and artifacts from World War II, and more.
A short history of Fort Sam Houston
The Museum offers a glimpse of military history from the late 1800s through today. The exhibits include many interesting, real-life stories that took place at Fort Sam Houston and around San Antonio. A fascinating example is the story of Ann White, who was born in 1887 on what would become Kelly Field. She grew up to be an active pilot and flight instructor, but her life ended tragically in 1918 when she was forced to land a plane during an air show due to engine trouble. Her passenger was killed on impact with the ground, while White died later that day from injuries sustained in the crash.
Quadrangle features
The Quadrangle also features beautiful mosaic artwork inside of its Bicentennial Pavilion. This area of the Museum is designed to emulate a 1910-era military encampment, complete with soldiers’ tents and other buildings.
There are many more fascinating stories on display at Fort Sam Houston Quadrangle and Museum, making it an enjoyable stop for San Antonio history buffs or anyone interested in learning about local World War II heroes like General Dwight D. Eisenhower.
The city of San Antonio, Texas has so much to offer, and the Quadrangle is just one of its many hidden gems. We hope you’ll take advantage of this affordable attraction while visiting our beautiful city!
Visitors can also explore over 200 acres of gardens at Ft Sam Houston’s Rose Garden, home to more than 4500 rose bushes of more than 300 varieties.
Guests will also enjoy visiting two museums on site – the Ulysses S Grant Presidential Library & Museum and the Armed Forces Medical Museum where they can learn about the United States military medicine through artifacts, photographs, documents, and interactive exhibits.
How to get to Fort Sam Houston?
Visitors can get to Fort Sam Houston Quadrangle and Museum by taking I-410 E toward FLORES ST exit, then follow the signs for US 90 W / S WW White Rd.
The quadrangle is open Monday through Friday from 12 p.m. until 4 p.m., with extended hours on Saturday & Sunday from 12 p.m. until 5 p.m. The Museum is closed on major holidays, including Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day.
Experience a hidden gem in the city of San Antonio!