Where Texas History Began Itinerary

Start your day off on the right foot with a hearty breakfast at Ramsey's Restaurant. You can't go wrong with the morning staples on their menu like huge waffles, western omelets, and made-from-scratch biscuits with sausage gravy.

After that, hop in your car and take a ride on the Old Victoria Driving Tour, an amazing collection of historically-significant homes and buildings in Downtown Victoria. This self-guided tour features over 80 homes and properties, many listed on the National Register of Historic Places.

As you follow the Old Victoria Driving Tour, watch for the Victoria Trail Through Time interpretive displays. These museum-quality signs tell the story of particular places, persons and events in Victoria's fascinating history. Afterward, take a short drive into Riverside Park for additional displays. You'll find a military-themed display at the Victoria Regional Airport.

Lunch in Victoria is certainly historic with a trip to Fossati's Delicatessen. Founded in 1882, it is the oldest deli in Texas and they still churn out favorites like the chicken salad melt and Italian po-boy. They’re open on weekdays only so another great lunch option, even on weekends, is Mumphord’s Place. Their brisket, ribs, sausage, and turkey are famous in the South Texas barbecue scene.

After you’ve had your fill, soak up 13,000 years of Gulf Coast history at the Museum of the Coastal Bend. Featuring exhibits on early peoples of the region up through the history of Texas ranching, you can see some incredible artifacts on display here. As a special activity, you can also learn to throw a spear using an atlatl, an early weapon used by indigenous tribes that predates the bow and arrow.

The 1892 Victoria County Courthouse is frequently listed as one of the most beautiful courthouses in Texas. Open weekdays, it still serves as a fully-functioning courthouse. The building is open to the public, so feel free to explore.

Take a trip to nearby Goliad to see some of the most important sites in all of early Texas history. Mission Espiritu Santo is a beautifully restored Catholic mission that features state park guides who'll walk you through Texas' early history. Located nearby is the Presidio La Bahia, a beautiful Spanish fort established hundreds of years ago to protect the Mission and the surrounding ranch land.

After a full day of exploring history, have a relaxing dinner at one of Victoria's locally-owned restaurants. If you're in the mood for steak and seafood, Sky Restaurant is an excellent choice! This restaurant is located on the outskirts of town - but definitely worth the drive.

Another great option for dinner is Joe's Pizza & Pasta, a local favorite for Italian cuisine. Their pizza and pasta dishes are always amazing and everything is fresh and made to order! For a little something different, ask about the saute'.

For a truly historic stay, lay your head down in one of Victoria’s boutique lodging spots such as The Inn on Main and the Rosalie Guest Quarters - both located in the downtown area.