Reviews of Presidio La Bahía (Museum)

Jorge Martinez

The staff is very knowledgeable a very nice educational place to go Andy who was there was by all means very helpful understanding of what this place means to not just history but to Texas very intimate educational place for the family and for somebody who is willing to understand what are past holds as being Texans will go back with more time to walk the place

Ronald Gray

It was wonderful we spend the night inside the fort.

Melissa Pitre

Loved it! Great family day trip to learn about Texas history.

Brandon Roy

This was amazing. Seeing history as close as you can. It was something else, you saw the inside, outside, the towers the soldiers stood at and what they would have seen. The church inside was something else. You can watch a short video about the history and the some of the major figures. We started with this and found it very helpful in the walkthrough. The displays of weapons and everyday objects like plates and pans were well done. The display of random stuff like broken bottles, childs doll arm, molded stuff was creepy and different. They allowed you to walk through the whole place for $4 bucks a person for adults. You saw Fanning's living quarters and the kitchen/mess hall. You can go into the courtyard where so many wounded soldiers were massacred. A wedding was setting up for later in this space...a little strange. One tower had a cannon you can touch and see how it would be positioned in a battle. Inside the last room they had a second donating box and a restroom that had modern conveniences but constructed in the old style to keep you at least partly in the mood or mindset. A nice touch. The church had two previous bells on display, one with a huge crack and candles you could light for someone for $3.00 as well as a beautiful mural and a commission of a statue outside. One last display about The Angel of Goliad, Francisca Alaverz, got our attention. She was a captain's wife who nursed all soldiers and saved many others by standing up for them. She was loved by soldiers on both sides and was brave as hell. She got away from the captain with the help of soldiers and lived out her life in Kings Ranch. Now sadly is buried somewhere there in an unmarked grave. The place was just all history. To know so many were killed and later massacred was just overwhelming. The battles here to make Texas free...I do not have words. Out front is all the flags including the Goliad flag and Texas Republic. I would highly recommend this if you are a history buff or love Texas you should come. Both Shana and I were impressed and overwhelmed. They do have some great souvenirs such as books, koozie, necklaces, Jesuit rings, small flags, stickers, tattoos, even patches for Shanas denim vest!!!! I am really glad we came.

Lisa Gonzales

Awesome place! Full of history!

Joanne Robertson

Beautiful and a part of Texas history that's always worth the visit...

Alan Granger

Cool old place

Stacy Rice

On my way to Port Aransas, I saw this place out of the corner of my eye, in the dark. Looked it up later and knew I needed to stop there on my way back. As a Native Texan, I couldn't believe I had never heard of this important fortress that was a significant part of our history! Thinking my memory was off, I asked several people, including my children who had recently taken Texas history. They didn't remember it either. Only the Alamo! Come to find out double the amount of people died here fighting for our independence. And our Declaration of Independence was first signed here!!! Go! Just go!!! It's totally worth visiting! Especially the Chapel, one of the oldest in America, and mass is still held here. It's beautiful! The ceilings are intact and very complex architecturally! The woman who was working was so sweet and fun! We spent way to much of her time asking questions and playing with the milagro charms while trying to find another cat charm!!! Wish I could remember her name to give her the recognition she deserves!!! She was working on Saturday, the 29th of June, 2019. There are several other historical sites in the area that we didn't have time to see. Of course we had to detour a few blocks on our way through town to look at Goliad's courthouse on the square, gorgeous! Wish we had more time to visit the shops downtown. Will definitely have to go back to visit everything we missed!!! "Remember Goliads! Remember the Alamo!" That was the true battle cry!!!

Fred Harrell

Great place to learn some local history and see an old Spanish fort, seemingly in the middle of nowhere, Texas. I'd highly recommend it as a side trip from the highway if you have time. There's not a lot too it, expect for the outer walls of the presidio and the chapel, which is really nice. But, it would be a fun place for the kids to run around in the inner courtyard and imagine being a soldier from a long time ago.

SMTB 1963

Beautifully restored Spanish fort and chapel. Nice museum with interesting artifacts. If you're ever in this out-of-the-way part of Texas, it's well worth seeing.

Jack Dennis

A treasure of Texas, joining the Alamo and San Jacinto among the three famous battlegrounds in State history. Site of the massacre of Fannin and over 400 of his men by order of Santa Anna.

Marie Tamasy

Love history. Very interesting. Certainly a place to visit while in area

Kim Harrison

Awesome old mission, comparable to the Alamo, but not as popular. The mission itself is worth checking out. The museum isn't spectacular.

Brian Holle

Great place to learn about the history of Texas

Billy Joe & Eloisa Villarreal

I could never get enough of this place..

Sherry Schneider

Loved going here. My family and I enjoyed all of the History.

Garret's Legacy Farmstead

There is nothing like it. The living history programs and events are fantastic.

Christy Case

It was very interesting and a great piece of history. The staff was friendly. We paid only $4 per adult and it is definitely worth it. The courtyard and the cathedral was beautiful.

art bee

amazing

Judith Wyo

Pretty cool history here. Doesn't take too much time to see it, but a lot has happened in this spot.

Earl Pike

What a terrific edifice to immerse yourself in Texas in. An excellently informative museum in a very well maintained structure. The grounds are very well maintained and honor early texians who sacrificed so much. I am shocked this place is not better known than the overly commercialized alamo in san antonio. This place is great. You can even arrange to stay the night in the quarters. Mind you, it can be very spooky but what a treat. Stop in and learn why this place is so important. Then travel over to Fannin Monument!

Charity Rose

Really interesting place and artifacts. Ive been twice and its still cool to hear the history about what happened here. I'd recommend a visit.

Phil Robbins

Reenactment of the Battle of Goliad 2019

Michelle Wymore

Well kept state park full of history. The staff is exceptionally friendly, and the mission and grounds are well maintained. Just don't forget the mosquito repellent, especially when going down to the river banks.

Glenn

This is the type of place they don't tell you about in history class. If you are familiar with Texas history you have probably heard of the Alamo, but you probably have never heard of Goliad. This mission is part of that critical piece of the story. It is beautifully restored with a very nice museum. I highly recommend watching the video as it really helped me to tie the whole story of Texas independence together. The church was also exceptionally restored. Overall a great place to experience history.

Jason Seiler

Sacred site of the Texas struggle against Mexico and the Mexican Revolution against Spain.

Angelique Rodriguez

Nice historical place

Jesus Escobedo

Historical and beautiful

Michael marino

Great history and events occurring.

Lexi Gabor-Busser

Very beautiful, didn't do the tour, but the fort is pretty cool from the outside, you have the angel monument as well as the soldier monument/burial monument. Very nice for historical lovers.

Bobbie Haines

Enjoyed the history

pupet 101

Polish up on Texas history

Keith Parker

Great place peaceful and very historic

Ross Keiser

Worth visiting, put it on your tour of Texas history, close to goliad, cuero, Gonzalez.

Kevin Nuckels

Great to see history well preserved. Neat exhibit and deep ties to the area and Texas!

Chris Davenport

Very nice museum. Lots of Texas history. Small gift shop. Lots of history books. Decent prices. The fort is fun to explore and walk around in. Also a few things outside the fort to see and read about. Good walking and leisure visit. The old living quarters is a small BnB (type) place to rent. Highly recommend that too.

Ranleigh Hirsh

A wonderful place to experience texas history. And you can book an overnight stay too! We sat out and watched the meteors sitting in the middle of the Presidio. It was breathtaking!

Raul Guerra

Nice historical place

Pamela Rodriguez

Very interesting visit! I would take more time to see everything.

Cory Goff

Neat mission to visit, but compared to the other missions, which are state parks or national historic sites, this one is private and costs more to enter.

Chris Chase

As a former Texas history teacher, I appreciate the importance of the site. Museum had enough artifacts and information to make the trip worthwhile

Nina Arthur

Would have liked more than just reading media to take in all the historical data. Very clean and meticulously laid out. Well worth the money to visit. Being an adopted texan the history was very well laid out. Great to learn texas history.

Marti Roach

I love seeing our history...

Bob Cherveny

Very interesting history of early Texas.

George Brown

Worth the time. Lots if interesting history.

amy lee

Spooky and really cool at night. If you stay there bring your own utensils and be prepared to be woken up by ghosts.

Nell Bednarz

For anyone interested in Texas history, this is an exceptional place to explore. It is well worth the drive!

Stephanie Graves

Fascinating place to learn more about Texas history!

Ken McCreary

A super day trip! Texas has a lot of hard core historical action!

Wm T

A great, historic site that for anyone who is a student of history or the Texas Revolution, this is a must-see. 4 stars just because the Presidio and Goliad are pretty far from any major cities. It's definitely a day trip destination though and if there is a reenactment scheduled it warrants an overnight visit. In that case, bring a lawn chair, blanket or whatever so you can sit and watch the festivities. For Texans, this place is hallowed ground and as important as the Alamo shrine.

Eugene Triana

Awesome Texsd History Great place to take kids or anyone who Loves our Great State of Texas God Bless America

Peter Nehen

Super cool historic spot in a neat old town. Make sure to check out all of the monuments nearby as well.

Mark Walker

You can feel the history here. We really enjoyed learning more Texas history.

Chriz Gonzalez

I always love it here I come here a lot and I'll always find something new

Sharon Sandberg

I went for a specific event that was great and I'd love to go back for the historical piece. It's very well preserved and the buildings and grounds are beautiful.

Kevin Howell

Interesting spot withots of history

Troy Levasseur

Awesome piece of history. I hope it's around for my kids to take their kids to.

Greg Jordan

very nice stop....great job on restoration and historical information

Jessica Luna

My grandbabies loved the place. It never gets old. I use to take my girls there & now my grandkids. Its still as awesome as ever!!!

Grizz Lastinger

Church services today with wife, daughter n family

Irma De Leon

Great historical information about Texas with a nice collection of artifacts displayed.

Lissette Cantu

Gorgeous place, beautiful mass

Valencia Valdez

Staff very friendly. Will definately return.

Gladys Thomas

Very interesting, lots of history, would love to go back. Lots to see & learn

Frankie Gonzales

You got to go see it!

Steve Duffy

Cool looking from the outside and very accessible to the road. Didn't get to go in but will try next time we go to the beach. Lots of good signage and historical markers so you can read about the history and get a good idea of what happened here

Mary Dugie

Great place for a rainy day, although it wasn't good for the live reenactors!

Oldskoolbuick56

Lots of history on this place. Gotta love Texas it's the place to be.

Greg Schoener

a very historical place. Friendly staff, beautiful church.

Brett Wyatt

Texas history is awesome.

Daniel Cruz

It's nice and historic but the staff needs to chill on the attitude.

Safety Observe Osha

Beautiful place. A must visit.

ChezEdNita VillaHaus

Really well restored presidio and very knowledgeable staff. Crazy interesting piece of Texas history that reminds everyone just how much of Texas was native Americans and tejanos before Mexico and the US were ever countries!

Vickie Robey

Great place to visit. Texas history at it's finest

Wesley Henson

An amazing and gorgeous place for a wedding venue.

Gary Butschek

Excellent museum, friendly staff and worth every penny.

Larry Davis

Great place for Texas history and has been restored.

Driskill Stallworth

Excellent historical site. Very friendly staff.

timothy dwight

Nice place to visit on a day trip.

Rene Villarreal

Very educational and great place to visit

Patricia Best

Very historic and the rangers are friendly and helpful

Mary Christmas

This is a Texas historical pilgrimage site, well-preserved and well presented.

Heather Barney

My family loved visiting. I learn a bit more with each visit. The people who work here are wonderful and very helpful, plenty to read and explore!

Omar Coronado

Very interesting historic place to visit, Goliad Texas worth the visit, spend the day in the historic square and the other historic points you will love it...very recommended

Ruben Cordova

Great place to visit and feel all the history that has occurred in this historical fort

Thomas Dunk

A part of our Texas history every good Texan should visit and study. REMEMBER GOLIAD!!!

Teresa Summerlin

Very informative, never knew about this fort, oldest fort in the United States. make sure and check out the chapel!

Rebecca Olsen

Amazing location with such rich history!

Tammy & Todd Pfenninger

Beautiful place to learn about Texas history

Anderson England

Historic location and hallowed Texas ground. The presidio is a crown jewel in Texas history. Begin with a short video which helps bring the presidio to life. The artifacts and fort grounds are interesting but the real star is the chapel. I would love to attend a midnight mass there at Christmas. There are also ghosts here. Nearby are many other historic monuments and memorials. A day trip to Goliad or an overnight is well worth a trip.

Cesar Hinojosa

Great place for Texas - Mexico History

Tony Reynolds

Awesome museum. Part of Texas history not as well known as the Alamo.

Don Hart

Should be seen by every Freedom Loving person. Good re enactment on May 05 coming soon.

Melinda Chapa

My husband and I really enjoyed our visit here. The short video is a must see before roaming through the grounds. Great Texas history, planning on returning with our family soon.

Wendi Blanco

Please, please, please ban people with drones. For those of us trying to steal a quiet moment in the chapel and relax and walk the grounds it is absolutely disrespectful. Called the front desk and complained and I was told i was out of luck and had to deal with the noise .

Terry Fitzwater

Texas history...birthplace of General Zaragusa...who inspired Cinco de Mayo. Must see for students of the Texas Revolution. Be sure to see the Chapel

Larry Nuckels

Re enactment was great

Will-i-am Garcia

It's a cute and interesting part of Texas History. If you happen to be in the area id definitely recommend dropping by and walking the grounds. Youll get a feel of what it was like to live in the fort so many years ago. They have Mass on Sunday's, barring bad weather or what have you. And in March they have reenactments of a battle that was fought there and colonial living. Which is something i wish i could attend. Anyways, check it out and see what you think.

Leigh Lindquist

Very well maintained

Adam Hill

Amazing piece of history!

BILL BILL

Stayed overnight for a ghost hunt! Beautiful place lovely quarters! Highly recommended for quiet weekend get away

Jeb Syler

Very interesting historical site. Learned a lot.

Brian Swindle

We were a little annoyed that we had to listen to a 5-minute phone conversation from the front desk clerk griping about her job before she would take our money. Also be forewarned that even though there's a sign that says Goliad State Park right in front of the building, the Presidio is maintained by the Archdiocese and they don't accept Texas Parks Pass and if you've already paid at Goliad State Park just up the road, you'll have to pay again here. All that being said, this is a wonderfully maintained historic site. Lots of Texas history here. Make sure to visit the General Zaragoza exhibit and statue outside the walls, and also a few hundred yards walk (or short drive) to the Angel of Goliad memorial and the Fannin memorial, which is stop the mass grave of the 350+ Texians that were executed on Santa Ana's orders.

Wes Goodwin

Very historical. An integral part of Texas history. Much better than the Alamo. A must see.

Carolyn J

So much history, like walking back in time. Try to make it to a reenactment event, but either way it is awesome!

Vallie Coates

This is a great big piece of Texas history that is sometimes overlooked.

Charles Wilson

I was very pleased with my visit to the Presidio la Bahia. As a former history teacher, I am always looking for ways to improve my understanding of Texas history, and the Presidio provided that experience. I will recommend this visit to all those interested in the Spanish colonial period, the Mexican Revolution and the Texas War for Independence.

Phil Archilla

9It was great. Very informative and interesting. Highly recommend.

Raymond Laque

INTERESTING LOCATION FOR HISTORY BUFFS

Tc Autry

Stopped in on the way home from a family beach trip. The site is well kept, with lots of historical info, for those that are interested. We had our two young kids, and their cousins with us, and they all had a good time running around and playing too. A lot of Texas history that i'd either forgotten, or never knew, so came away with lots to research and read up on. Indoors it was surprisingly cool and comfortable, given how hot the Texas summer heat can get.

Ric Ceron

Texas History. A must see.

Samuel Story

I loved this property. Even though the air conditioning was being worked on and warm/humid. I still enjoyed the Presidio and surrounding property. Will recommend to others.

Ramona Pantalion

Awesome experience for anyone who likes history

Deb Loeffler

Very interesting

Andrea Julian

The church is beautiful and the museum very informative. Glad we stopped in and spent some time here and learned more about its important role in Texas history

Cathy Schoen

Historical and informative. Gives you a great insight on Texas history and pays tribute to the people who lost their lives there. The cathedral is still an active place of worship.

Pamela W

Great place for history and it's dressed for Christmas now.

Sig J

Nicely kept piece of Texas history!

Marshall B

We were able to attend the Reenactment of the Battle of Goliad. Have been before and always enjoy the the unbiased information provided. This is a beautiful complex and such a pivital part of the history that is Texas. During the Reenactment is a fun and informative time to visit the Presidio. I would strongly recommend attending the reenactment, but return at a later time as a follow up to thoroughly enjoy the beauty and history of this turning point in the history of Texas. The history of the occupation of the Presidio by Texan and Mexican soldiers and the story that will lead you around this beautiful region can be very surreal and somber. The struggle between the Mexican generals and the orders they had to follow us brought to life during the Reenactment, but lives in this region. I would suggest that anyone who visits the Presidio to not make this a quick couple hour stop, as I feel you will miss the true feel that goes with the history. I strongly recommend a visit and cherish the turning point in the Battle for Texas Independence.

Sohum Ganoo

nice

Troy

Beautiful yet haunting, highly recommend a visit to this presidio. A must for any Texan or "Texan at Heart" who has a patriotic spirit and love of the history in Texas!

Tim Hatch

Just great, full of Texas history and the history of the Catholic faith in Texas. Great place. I have been going there since 1961.

Bret Jacomet

Great historical visit. Powerful.

Anthony Acosta

This place is magical, almost sacred. You can't help but have some reverence when walking along a field of beautiful wildflowers and acknowledge the terrible events that took place here. I loved it.

Rachael Mokthephathai

Beautiful! We stumbled upon this while passing through town and had to stop! We didn't get out because it was late, but if you're in the area, totally worth stopping for! Be sure to check out the memorials!

Bruce Jordanov

Awesome place need to lean much more about this place

Jayne Gorup

All the hidden lesser known history tucked in little towns always are a pleasure to check out.

K Melissa Funchar

This was the coolest place I've ever spent the night in. I'm already planning my next trip out here.

Jaime D. Garza

Lots of history. Interesting visit into the past history of Texas and Mexico.

Stacie Frost

Awesome place to explore the history of Texas. I love that they let you wander around at your own discretion. The entire grounds and buildings of the fort are beautiful and well maintained. Definitely an awesome place to spend a day trip. The gift shop is very reasonably priced so make sure to pick up some Goliad mugs or pins during your visit. Remember Goliad!

Tammy Mendez

Great place to visit and educate ourself.

Don Fernandez

Great historical church w/ some modern fixes

Manana D

Amazing small place to learn history see and apriciate

George Hill

Very impressive example of Spanish colonial military architecture. A very profound and moving experience to be in this place.

Danny Dimitt

A GREAT place to reflect on the Mexican atrocities against the Texicans.

Rafael Gonzales

Remember Goliad! Texas fight for independence history just as important as The Alamo!! If you are a native born Texan this must visit as I said just as important seeing The Alamo or the San Jacinto Battle Field.

Carlee Moore

Fabulous museum! A must do for history buffs.

Dennis Pohle

Very impressive and historical location. Church is original structure, fort is restored. Signage throughout the fort gives a thorough on the history of Texas's formative years and local history. Short film gave background on the fort and key events. Goliad was a key event in Texas revolution. We thoroughly enjoyed this attraction.

Jub's Journey

Very friendly individuals running the museum. A really beautiful church.

c b

Beautiful display of Texas history

Katrien Sevrin

Very nice visit

Ms. AA

This place was another beautiful part of the Texas history! Wonderful teaching trip for children and family

Arlie Alsup, Jr

Great history, connected to the Mexican war.

Sue MarieP

As authentic an experience of early Spanish colonization attempts in the New World you won't find elsewhere. Combine with a visit across the highway to Mission Espiritu Santo. Bring your bike and ride the Angel of Goliad Trail to downtown Goliad.

Senyor Rompe

Nice place. Hostess was very friendly and informative. We went on a reenactment weekend which made it that more enjoyable.

Deborah Fischer

Really liked the whole site... beautiful Chapel.... really kept in great shape...will visit it again sometime

Brenda Dannelly

This is a great day time excursion with kids of all ages. The fort has sentinel towers, barracks, and an open courtyard. The museum and visitor area is extensive in the history of the local region. It gives a better interpretation of life in the early 1800s in Texas than even the Alamo. There is a active Catholic church on site. This is another favorite spot to come in the morning, eat in the local restaraunt next door, and then head to the old mission site inside the state park half a mile up the road.

Craig Jackson

Great place to visit especially if you enjoy Texas history.

Jennifer Giacometto

Very interesting

Laura Rose

So much history.... very interesting!

Jay Ferguson

Great historical view of Spanish influence on Texas. Call ahead for groups, this is a bit expensive for teens or students. This historical site is not managed ironically by the state, so expect to pay to visit. La Bahia has so much historical significance on Texas History several artifacts on display.

Richard Elkins

Very nice place to visit and learn some history about Texas. Quiet, hostess very nice and helpful. Highly recommend you go and bring your kids. Much to learn.

Susan Szuszka

Was a unique and fun little vacation!

Michael Atterberry

Great site and history.

Stephanie Lopez

This place holds an important place in our Texas Revolution history. We grow up learning about The Alamo, but the Goliad Massacre is another key event. Walking the fort and just seeing the church is amazing. I need to try to make it back for one of the historical reenactments. Worth a visit

Matthew Bigler

Lots of great Texas, Mexican, and Spanish history. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable. It is a fun trip for adults and kids.

Shannon Grimble

Great place of history from the moment you drive up. The church is beautiful and the members make you feel welcome. Do yourself a favor and visit this historical site.

Melanie Mead

Worth the drive. Very interesting Fort. Reconstruction was perfect.