We’ve experienced the artistic and cultural magic of Santa Fe, New Mexico, but lucky for us Texans, you don’t have to make the trip out-of-state to experience a haven like this. The list of things to do in San Angelo, Texas is extensive and well worth a trip out to West Texas.
San Angelo was founded in 1867 and is known as “The Visual Art Capital of Texas.” It is also home to the country’s 4th largest rodeo, the oldest calf roping competition in Texas, and five golf courses. It was even named the #1 True West Town in the country in 2022!
If a road trip to San Angelo sounds like it’s up your alley, check out the amazing places we visited listed below.
Be sure to check out our other San Angelo content listed below:
- Best Restaurants in San Angelo
- Stay at the Old Central Firehouse Bed & Brew
- Stay at the Inn at the Art Center
With our latest edition of our Texas Travel Guide, you can take an exciting vacation every weekend without breaking the bank and still have more to do! And in just one trip, the guide pays for itself! You’ll be amazed at all the hidden gems, international influence, and wacky attractions you’ll find all over Texas!
Not ready to purchase quite yet? We wanted to make this guide as accessible as possible, so we’ve shared our 1st edition of our guide, 50 Texas Trips Under $50. Click the button below to get yours for FREE!
Old Central Firehouse Bed & Brew
The Old Central Firehouse Bed & Brew was constructed in 1929 and has a rich history as one of the first fire stations in San Angelo. The building has since undergone renovations and turned into a charming bed-and-breakfast with an on-site pizzeria and amazing amenities for guests.
This perfect combination of historic charm and contemporary conveniences is memorable and delightful for every visitor. Read about our experience at the Old Central Firehouse Bed & Brew here!
Cold Smoke Coffee
A hidden treasure in West Texas, Cold Smoke Coffee is not only a coffee shop, but it also features a specialty grocery and convenience store, open daily from 6:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. You can buy a wide variety of goods here, from trendy garments and headgear to cute Texas-themed trinkets.
Cold Smoke is a special location with a pleasant working area, perfect for remote work or hosting a relaxed get-together. You can indulge in a tempting selection of baked goodies and various beverages that cater to everyone’s taste.
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San Angelo Riverwalk
Also known as Concho Avenue, the San Angelo Riverwalk is the most visited tourist spot downtown.
San Angelo TX is a charming city with trails that follow the scenic Concho River. These paths connect several green spaces with worthwhile tourist attractions. Stop and take in some scenery, relax on a park bench, and watch locals enjoy peaceful activities like fishing (they keep the water stocked with bass). The network spans four miles, with bridges leading to the north and south banks.
The Celebration Bridge is a popular outdoor venue since it is close to the riverside amphitheater and the Museum of Fine Arts. You can learn more about the unique freshwater mussels that call the Concho River Pearl home by reading the signs located along the trail.
The Bosque along the Concho River
The Bosque is another local treasure you must experience on your next visit to San Angelo. There’s a wide variety of entertaining things to do at this enchanting location, from the family-friendly miniature golf course to the scavenger hunt and unique mosaic pick-up truck picnic area.
The unique beauty of the Bosque makes it a photographer’s paradise, with picture-perfect photo ops around every bend.
The Bosque Park is a great place to have a picnic or burn off some energy with the little ones. You can even rent different amenities there. However, note that certain amenities are subject to given time.
Whether you’re looking for a relaxing day trip or the best time worthy of Instagram, the Bosque along the Concho River is a wonderful and ever-changing destination in San Angelo.
International Waterlily Collection
Civic League Park in downtown San Angelo hosts the International Waterlily Collection. Visitors can enjoy a stunning display of various species of water lilies, showcased in picturesque water basins, all for FREE!
The collection is a visual treat for the eyes, with numerous lily varieties and hybrids such as Pink Nova, Chompo Nix, and Wanvisa.
The park also features a beautiful brick path that winds through different elevations to reach several different watering holes.
Additionally, the park provides information on the lily collector, Ken Landon, who assembled this very floral collection. It is on display between September and October and is popular among school field trips.
If you take the town trolley, it’ll actually make a stop here!
Inn at the Art Center
This local boutique hotel has an interesting history. Formerly a poultry farm in the 1940s, it is more than what meets the eye.
It has an on-site café, quaint B&B accommodations, and even sponsors interesting demos by local groups in its beautiful courtyard. It is also home to art studios with local artists coming and going. If you happen to catch one of them, they may even give you a personal tour!
Read all about our experience at the Inn at the Art Center here!
Even if you don’t stay overnight, it serves as a venue for several fun things to do and events for short-term visitors.
On the first Saturday of every month, guests can enjoy a delicious breakfast and browse the Black History Month Saturday Market stalls. Live music is played every Friday and Saturday night, where anyone can join in and sing.
Additionally, an exhibition showcases locally made, high-quality pottery with intricate, hand-painted patterns at the Starkeeper Gallery.
Paintbrush Alley
The Art in Uncommon Places initiative has done an exceptional job at transforming a regular alleyway into what is now Paintbrush Alley, an enthralling visual adventure. Featuring the work of over 50 local artists, this lively, outdoor gallery is an impressive display of modern art.
Each piece of art has a QR code next to it if you’re interested in learning more about the piece and its creator.
The alleyway provides a canvas for creative expression. There are modern paintings and unique seating arrangements, such as transformed truck beds and dumpsters, make it a captivating spot for time spent outdoors.
The strategic location of Paintbrush Alley between the Texas Theatre and Firestone makes it a convenient and easily accessible destination. Bring your camera, as it will give you a memorable opportunity to photograph the exhibition’s vibrant colors and striking designs.
Pop Art Museum
Visit the Pop Art Museum in the heart of San Angelo for a one-of-a-kind experience that features a fusion of art and history. This outdoor museum is cleverly built on the bones of a defunct bowling alley. Take your time and enjoy a self-guided tour of the museum, taking in the 31 works of art on display.
The alley in the rear offers a picture-perfect backdrop, and you can learn more about the local artists and the each item’s inspiration by scanning the QR codes provided next to each piece.
San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts
Opened in 1981, this museum has been a must-see destination for art lovers from around the world. It’s a dynamic venue that features a wide variety of seasonal and permanent exhibits.
More than 300 outstanding works are in this museum’s collection, ranging from modern pottery to Spanish Colonial masterpieces and Mexican religious relics. You can spend hours wandering around and still miss some of its best features.
This museum features artwork from antiquity to the present day, satisfying fans of all eras and styles.
The museum’s rooftop deck also offers tourists breathtaking views of San Angelo. It’s an unforgettable adventure that will make your time in the city unforgettable!
M.L. Leddy’s
M.L. Leddy’s is a renowned shop that attracts boot connoisseurs from far and wide. It is a brand with over a century of history, started in 1922 by the original M.L. Leddy and currently run by Sammy Farmer, a lively 101-year-old artisan.
What makes this local shop different is their commitment to making things that fit your needs. Book your Boot Tour appointment, and you will be mesmerized by the experience.
The minute you walk, you’ll be immersed in the world of handcrafted boots. They will make something uniquely yours, down to the choice of leather, the stitching pattern, and how it fits.
M.L. Leddy’s enjoys global fame due to its finely designed boots, ones that even celebrities have worn. Their experts put in a lot of time and effort to make each pair a tribute to traditional workmanship.
You can even purchase custom-made cowboy hats here as well!
If you’re interested in Western culture, you shouldn’t miss this family-run business in the city of San Angelo, which places a premium on tradition and quality. The rich history and stunning artwork of M.L. Leddy’s are sure to leave a lasting impression!
Confetti Mall
San Angelo’s Confetti Mall is the best place to go for an exciting shopping experience.
The original building was a petrol station. Today, its historic allure is combined with the convenience and excitement of modern leisure activities: shopping and eating.
Confetti Mall is the place to go if you’re searching for one-of-a-kind gift shop, trendy clothing, or delicious regional food. It’s a treat to witness a historical site turned into a vibrant center for contemporary entertainment.
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Sassy Fox
Sassy Fox is a local business, run by a loving family, with a beautiful atmosphere awaiting visitors.
Inside, you will find a soda fountain where you can get a scoop of Blue Bell ice cream. It’s a pleasant touch that adds to the shop’s appeal for all ages.
Moreover, Sassy Fox is a goldmine of women’s apparel and unique presents. Shopping there is a wholesome experience, whether you want to find a special gift or the newest fashion trends. As you wander the shop, admire the intricately arranged tiles, an artistic addition.
Eggemeyer’s General Store
Eggemeyer’s General Store, famously known as the “Buc-ees of San Angelo,” is a captivating landmark everyone should add to your list of things to do in San Angelo.
It has the cozy ambiance of a classic general store, where you’ll find everything all under one roof, including groceries, clothes for children, housewares, coffee, and even jewelry and toys.
San Angelo State Park
A visit to San Angelo State Park promises a day filled with outdoor activities, including observing and learning about the longhorns and bison that call this park home.
On Saturdays, public viewings are offered at either 9 AM or 10 AM depending on the season. They’ll load you onto a trailer and take you to the viewing spot near the south entrance.
This expansive state park boasts 55 miles of walking trails, as well as several campgrounds for those who wish to extend their stay. Watersport enthusiasts will find O.C. Fisher Reservoir, accessible through the park, a hub for boating and fishing activities.
For those in search of picturesque vistas, the Cougar Overlook stands as an exceptional choice within the park. Offering captivating views of the North Concho River, this spot is an ideal destination for nature lovers and photographers alike.
Park maps are available at the entrance, which will help you locate scenic points of interest and trailheads.
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The Chicken Farm Art Center
The Chicken Farm Art Center has been a San Angelo cultural institution since 1971. Housed on a renovated chicken farm, it now offers resident artist studios, a café, and the bed & breakfast, Inn at the Art Center (mentioned above).
Sculptures, pottery, paintings, woolen items, and ironworks are available in over 20 studios at this complex. Visit the workshops during their regular hours for a more relaxed experience. You can support the local art scene and find unique gifts this way.
San Angelo Nature Center
Located next to beautiful Lake Nasworthy, the San Angelo Nature Center is a small but worthwhile resource for nature lovers.
The establishment provides an interesting look at the wildlife of the Southwest. Visitors can see porcupines, scorpions, snakes, and lizards, among other interesting critters.
After your informative tour, Marylee Park and Spring Creek Park, near the Nature Center, provide a relaxing waterfront experience.
Be sure to add the San Angelo Nature Center in West Texas to your list of things to do, especially if you’re traveling with little ones who love animals!
Angelo State University
Angelo State University, located in downtown San Angelo, is more than simply a place of education; it is also a thriving community center.
Its West Texas Collection will enlighten you with information about the fascinating past of the area. Additionally, you’ll be amazed by the ASU Planetarium and the University Art Gallery.
Take a stroll around ASU Lake, a serene spot in the heart of the city. Angelo State University offers many cultural activities and educational opportunities as well, making your visit to San Angelo an exciting and unforgettable experience.
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Railway Museum of San Angelo
San Angelo, like many other Texas towns, was significantly affected by the railroad in the early 1900s. As a well-preserved relic of a revolutionary time, the Santa Fe Depot is a source of pride for the city and its tourists.
Inside the terminal, the Railway Museum of San Angelo houses an extraordinary collection of artifacts from the town’s railroad heritage.
It’s important to note that the museum has limited hours and admission is $5 per person. Visit on a Saturday when living history tours are offered to get the most in-depth look into the past’s inner workings.
The Santa Fe line rails and the old station are just as charming to see at any time of day or night, even when the museum is closed. These rails offer a unique and interesting look into the railway’s ongoing impact in San Angelo.
Miss Hattie’s Bordello Museum
Miss Hattie’s Bordello Museum, located inside a historic brothel built in 1896, was more than just a brothel; it accommodated a saloon and numerous other enterprises. In 1902, a woman’s ambition led her to set up a bordello, opened discretely above her ex-husband’s saloon.
The fascinating exhibits of Miss Hattie’s Bordello Museum will take you back in time. You’ll find period-appropriate mannequins, original bordello furnishings, and a wide variety of artifacts and paintings. The owners have preserved each room with great care.
Moreover, Miss Hattie’s Restaurant, a critical part of this historical expedition, captures the charm of a bygone era alongside. Despite being shut down by the Texas Rangers in 1952, the museum has maintained the original condition of the chambers, providing amazing insights into the past.
Tours are available Tuesday through Thursday at 2 & 4 PM, as well as Friday and Saturday at 2, 3, & 4 PM. There is also a $6 fee associated with the tour.
Legend Jewelers
Located just below Miss Hattie’s Bordello Museum is Legend Jewelers. The store is known for its fantastic selection of fine jewelry, all made in-house.
They offer a diverse range of products including engagement and wedding rings, earrings, pendants, men’s jewelry, and much more. They also have a unique collection of Concho pearls!
When the store opened in 1996, the original founder was experimenting with gold smithing. He even went as far as to cast parsley (yes, the herb you buy at the grocery store) into various, unique pieces of jewelry.
A few of his pieces from this period are actually currently on display at the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts! After a customer asked for a broach reminiscent of his iconic seahorse goblet, Legend Jewelers custom jewelry began.
Tours are available Friday and Saturday at 2, 3 & 4 PM.
Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue
Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue is the country’s largest sanctuary for abused and abandoned donkeys. Since its inception, they have rescued more than 13,000, including rescues made by individuals and government agencies.
Add a tour of their facility to your list of things to do the next time you’re in San Angelo. Tours are offered Monday through Saturday, with opportunities to pet and interact with these adorable creatures. All you have to do is call to make an appointment!
They even take their donkeys to places like nursing homes for some additional love and affection.
Maintaining the health and wellbeing of these animals is no small task. The rescue spends approximately $60 per month on feed for each donkey on their property, which adds up to about 15,000 to 16,000 pounds of feed per month. Despite the costs, the team at Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue remains dedicated to providing these donkeys with the care and love they deserve.
In addition to Texas, Peaceful Valley Donkey Rescue has expanded its operations across the United States, with locations in states such as Hawaii and even extending into the Caribbean.
The Shoe Boxz
The Shoe Boxz is a popular local shoe store that specializes in hype sneakers and collectibles, offering a wide range of sought-after brands and limited-edition releases. It has built a reputation for its exclusive selection, catering to sneaker enthusiasts and collectors in the area and beyond.
You can find them inside San Angelo’s New Wave Barbershop. Check their socials for updates on new arrivals.
Coop Gallery
A part of the San Angelo Museum of Fine Arts, the Coop Gallery hosts a diverse range of exhibits and events. Some include “Christmas at the Coop,” and in 2023, they hosted their very first Día de los Muertos Art Exhibit!
Local artists are welcome to rent out the space and display their work. You’ll find collections ranging from paintings and ceramics to mixed media.
Ben Ficklin Reservoir
If you’re looking for a serene escape in San Angelo, Ben Ficklin Reservoir is the perfect place. Formed by Ben Ficklin Dam, this man-made body of water is a popular spot for fishing and kayaking.
The Texas Bank Sports Complex
The Texas Bank Sports Complex is a prominent sports venue in San Angelo, spanning 82.3 acres along the Concho River.
The complex includes facilities for a variety of sports, including softball, baseball, flag football, kickball, and sand volleyball, as well as a scenic community park. Enjoy the huge playground, picnic tables, and even a mini waterfall. Keep your eyes peeled for the turtles!
Annual Events in San Angelo, Texas
San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo – February
If you’re a fan of rodeos, steer roping, or just love an electrifying community event, the San Angelo Stock Show and Rodeo is a spectacle not to be missed. Recently nominated as one of the Top 5 nominees for the 2023 PRCA Large Indoor Rodeo of the Year, the San Angelo Stock Show & Rodeo has earned its reputation for excellence.
But it’s not just the rodeo that gathers crowds. The event often features exciting concerts with renowned artists, a parade, and more!
San Angelo Wine & Food Festival – April
The San Angelo Wine & Food Festival is one of the oldest festivals of its kind in Texas, featuring wine and craft beer tastings paired perfectly with food from some of the best West Texas chefs, restaurateurs, and artisan producers, as well as live music.
You can even attend a gourmet dinner with a celebrity chef, however, only 16 tables are sold, with the proceeds benefiting local and area visual and performing arts.
Simply Texas Blues Festival – May
The Simply Texas Blues Festival is a free and family-friendly event that showcases a range of musical talent, with a particular focus on blues music. But it’s not just about the music; the festival also typically features a cookoff and car show.
The festival is organized by the San Angelo Blues Society, a group dedicated to preserving and promoting blues music in the region.
Wild West Fest – July
Wild West Fest is a highly anticipated, 3-day music festival in San Angelo. Texas Travel Awards actually named Wild West Fest the 2023 Music Festival of the Year, so you know it’ll be a good time! All funds benefit organizations in the Concho Valley.
Lily Fest – September
Lily Fest by the San Angelo International Water Lily Collection is home to one of the largest lily displays of any U.S. botanical garden. The event offers visitors a chance to see a variety of waterlilies from around the world in an array of colors including pink, purple, yellow, and white.
Attendees can also enjoy refreshments, live music, and guided tours of the collection.
The International Water Lily Collection in San Angelo is open to the public year-round at no charge. However, the active flowering displays occur from April to October.
Cinch Roping Fiesta – October
Cinch Roping Fiesta is an annual event that attracts top competitors from all over the country and showcases some of the best roping talent in the world.
Día de Los Muertos – October
San Angelo Hispanic Heritage puts on a stunning, two-day celebration where people come to honor their deceased loved ones with ofrendas and more! There are also kid-friendly activities, a car show, 5K/1 Mile run, live performances, traditional food, and a Catrin/Catrina contest!
Concho Christmas Celebration – December
A highlight of the Concho Christmas Celebration is the Tour of Lights, a 2.5-mile driving tour along the banks of the Concho River featuring over 3 million lights. The tour has grown from a short walking tour into a major event!
Another noteworthy event during the Concho Christmas Celebration is “Christmas at Old Fort Concho.” It occurs during the first full weekend in December and is Fort Concho’s largest annual event.
Things to Do in San Angelo, Texas: Final Thoughts
San Angelo, Texas offers road trippers and cross-country travelers a unique experience that transcends the tourist hotspots. It’s a city where the local charm and genuine warmth of its people shine through.
From the vibrant local arts scene and the rich history of the Concho River to the captivating blend of cultures and cuisines, San Angelo beckons those who seek an authentic taste of Texas. Its streets tell stories, its neighborhoods whisper secrets and its everyday life exudes an unmistakable Texan spirit.
Be sure to add some of San Angelo’s amazing local restaurants, listed here, to your list of things to do!
Last Updated 9 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: November 16, 2023
