Enjoying Wine at the Bryan Museum. Every Thursday at 4 pm. Galveston's Own Farmers Market occurs at the same location beginning at 3. Come enjoy beautiful surroundings, live music, great company and shopping - all that the farmers market has to offer. read more

Oh my gosh - talk about a DREAM venue for my wedding two weekends ago and with a dream staff to go along with it! I was set on not having a Galveston wedding until I saw this place. Peter and Richard are amazing and made sure our big day was as smooth and seamless as possible. I wish I could get married every month here! read more

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We go here just to take in the scenery. It is beautiful. The landscaping is amazing. Inside is awesome too. If your in to Texas history this would be a great spot to stop by. read more

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Not good. I thought that the information given by my guide was one-sided and in some cases ahistorical. The artifacts themselves were fascinating, but the way they were presented was borderline offensive. Also, there was not a single mention of Juneteenth, one of the most historical events in Galveston's History. read more

This was a very nice surprise! I encourage you to visit. Right now the visiting exhibit is a collection of Billy Gibbons that is really interesting. Nice little history of ZZTop; That Little 'Ol Band from Texas! We all had a good time. read more

This is a nice little museum to learn some Texas history and see some neat artifacts. It's away from the crowds and parking is free and easy. You can go through the whole museum in about an hour. The kids (12 and 9) tolerated it to slightly liked it. Not really geared towards kids but again you won't be there that long. I recommend it! read more

What a wonderful and beautiful museum. Mr. Bryan has taken this historical landmark from the grave back to life!! His collection of artifacts are mind blowing and jaw dropping. The rooms are large and ac is very very cool. Grounds are beautiful as well. Admission is inexpensive. If you are a history lover or not PLEASE check out this wonderful addition to Galveston Island. Snacks are available for purchase. read more

I just participated in a photoshoot at the stunning conservatory at The Bryan Museum, and feel lucky to have spent the day in such a beautiful space. The Events Director, Peter Ochoa is incredibly thoughtful and makes sure everyone in attendance is taken care of. The bridal room is gorgeous as well, and looks as if it was plucked from a Tuscan villa. I have been inside The Bryan Museum itself many times as well, and highly recommend it to lovers of art, architecture, and Old West history. The Texana collection is unlike any I have seen. read more

Beautiful collection! We thoroughly enjoyed our trip to The Bryan Museum. It is well curated and we spent about 2-2.5 hours exploring the collection. If you enjoy Texas history, you will thoroughly enjoy it! read more

The Bryan Museum - Museums Near Me - Galveston, Texas

This is a private art gallery and museum focused on early Texas and southwest history which was established after JP Bryan, a Texas oil man, retired and he and his wife took his substantial (that's an understatement) personal collection and opened it to the public. First, though, the building itself is quite a work of art. Bryan and his wife clearly spent a fortune to acquire the historic orphanage and bring it up to modern renovation standards. The building and grounds are a big addition to this historic-ish district in Galveston which is minutes from the historic downtown. This would be a great place for events which I believe they are open to. The museum has many great pieces of historical value, including letters from William Travis sent from the Alamo (rare typed reproduced versions that were sent all across Texas - not THE actual letter which is on display in the Alamo, but a copy that was distributed across Texas). They have state of the art touch screen technology to explain exhibits. There are lots of fantastic artwork and historical items. It really is one of the best collections of its kind anywhere. It is a personal collection turned into museum and the collector's primary interest was the American west. That being said, there is a genuine effort to portray things fairly. The museum included exhibits depicting slavery and how inhumane it was as well as a large room dedicated to the Buffalo Soldiers and African American contributions to the military (this is keeping with the collector's focus on the southwest settlement and Cowboys, early Texas military history, etc). This is not the primary focus of this private collector, but they make an effort to meet museum standards for historical fairness rather than just being a private collection made public. For $10 adult admission, and 6 or 5 dollars for students and kids, this really is a chance to see something out of the ordinary. It took us like an an hour and a half to get through it, so the museum is filled with stuff. It's a great value. read more

Texas History galore. Learned a few things I didn't pick up in 5th or 7th grade. Great maps & dioramas. Spooky pirate cave in the ground floor, watch your head. Well worth the time & money. read more

Found it a Very Interesting place,because we are not from TX. The only thing we wanted to take pics, NOT Allowed!! It is privately owned, they have rules!!! But it is beautifully done, and the exhibit has so much information, to listen to ! They need a bigger Gift Shop, it has plenty of pretty things, in a small area. Plenty of Parking in back. Enjoyed the History lesson, and seeing actual documents & Art Work was Beautiful!!! read more

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Excellent museum. Has wheelchair access. One of the best private collections of Texas artifacts I've ever scene. The gun collection, as well As the spur, and saddle collections are outstanding. Downside is they don't allow pictures and they have staff to make sure you don't either. I will be back though. read more

Enjoyed every minute of the 2 hours we spent in the museum. Since it's raining, we'll come back on a nicer day to enjoy the grounds and since the museum shop was closed for the holiday, we'll look forward to checking it out then. I'm really thankful Mr. Bryan bought this place and shared his collection with a broader public. It's really amazing! I've never seen a saddle collection like the one showcased here. And the paintings on sandpaper are lovely! You won't be disappointed in a visit here. It looked to me like everyone involved in the renovation and display did excellent work! read more

Fantastic Texiana collection presented in a beautiful, historic space. The orphanage has been restored wonderfully. The eclectic nature of the collection is fun and provides a rich and diverse overview of the area's history. The interactive elements are a welcome addition. I look forward to watching this grow. read more

The Bryan Museum - Front facade - Museums Near Me - Galveston, Texas

Do not miss this glorious museum while you are in Galveston! Exquisite 1800's building that used to be a orphanage. The story of Texas and Galveston is told with stunning artifacts, displays, and art. This is a world class museum with lush grounds, do not miss it. Take the tour with docent and retired history teacher Donna, who will totally transport you. read more

Great experience at the museum today! Would highly recommend it. Well priced and tons of artifacts...

This museum was once a house and then an orphanage before and after the 1900 storm in Galveston. I enjoyed viewing the house imagining all the history this beautiful building holds. It's a museum of Texas History full of interesting pieces. the outside gardens are beautiful to take a stroll through. They also hold weddings here and on Sundays there is a farmers market behind the museum. Don't forget to check out the basement level as well. We almost didn't see it. It has a cool pirate cave for the kids. If you are tall you will have to duck down a little to walk through. Absolutely loved the visit here and the volunteers were friendly and helpful. A must see if in Galveston. read more

This is a very impressive private collection of artifacts such as guns, saddles, painting, documents, clothing, and models that focus on Texas and American Southwestern history. Everything from the grounds and outdoor sculptures to the indoor displays are first class. The staff was incredibly friendly and knowledgeable both in the museum and gift shop. This is in the top 5 destinations in Galveston. I will definitely go back and spend a leisurely day here. read more

For as much renowned history as Texas has this is one of the few museums in the Houston area that showcases this history to such an extent.

Real surprise and a Hidden Texas Treasure. Was really surprised to real Texas History on display. Never heard of this place but went out of my way to see it. Well worth it. SY "YES" if you get the chance to go. read more

Wonderful Experience! We recently hosted an evening event for 65-70 people at the Bryan Museum Conservatory. The location was beautiful and the staff were professional, knowledgeable and extremely helpful. Mr. Ochoa was pleasant and quick to respond as we were planning the event, and was present to answer any questions during the event. He even anticipated and took care of fine details, such as the increased need for AC as the event proceeded. The security guard was friendly and helpful as well. Parking was not an issue. I highly recommend the venue for any event, but for evening events, the Bryan Museum Conservatory and surrounding grounds are magical. Thank you again! read more

The receptionist was so welcoming, parking was easy, and our docent Jeff was so knowledgeable and engaging. You can tell that he's genuinely interested in this history, answered our group's questions thoughtfully, and shared his personal take on some of the items, making the tour so unique. The displays themselves were modern with touch pads nearby that provided more in depth information. The whole tour, including videos, took about two hours though, so make sure you have time. read more

Wonderful museum and building. So too bad the staff is incredibly rude. They could learn a lot from some PR classes.

Exquisite wedding venue! We were married at The Bryan Museum on April 2nd, 2016 with about 225 guests in attendance. We were the first event in the new addition which includes a spectacular conservatory, outdoor pavillion, and bridal lounge adjacent to the museum. Our ceremony was at the gazebo, cocktail hour in the courtyard with museum tours, and then the reception in the conservatory. It really was a dream and we couldn't have chosen a more picture-perfect venue. My husband was even excited about the venue due to its historic nature and Mr. Bryan's amazing collection of southwestern rarities. The museum's event coordinator, Peter Ochoa, and his assistant, Richard, were extremely supportive and helpful throughout the planning process. We had several walk-throughs and discussions that made the event flow perfectly. Even on the day-of, they were there all day and night to make sure our planning played out and that everyone was having an great time. The Bryan Museum truly is -by far- the most beautiful venue on the island and surrounding area. The attention to detail is unreal - hand-painted, gold-foiled ceilings, crystal chandeliers from London, a huge ornate mirror in bridal lounge, and several other gorgeous European and Galveston-found antiques that are the perfect finishing touch. I would HIGHLY recommend this venue for weddings or other social events, you will not be disappointed! read more

Was really excited to see what it looked like inside this beautiful historic building that had been empty for so long and was not disappointed. The building has been beautifully restored and there is an enormous amount of historical documents, antiques and art inside. Also, the staff/volunteers were so sweet and knowledgeable about the collections. read more

The history of the building would be enough to visit but add to that the great collection and you can't miss. They even have great special exhibits If you want a real sense of Texas history you need to see this collection. The introduction video over dramatizes some events in Texas history but that in no way diminishes what Mr Bryon has given all of us with this museum. On top of all of this the staff at the museum is wonderful. We met Stephanie, Rose and Jack. Each one had a different position at the facility but they all made our visit significantly more enjoyable. We recommend you go to Galveston and visit this museum and leave plenty of time to see it all. read more

I will not return to thus museum. While there were many southwest artifacts, and I am sure they were valuable, there is no Hope Diamond or anything . Yet the staff wanders around looking like you are going to open a display case and steal something. The displays are all in case but you cannot lean on case to view it, they also check your purse and give you s claim ticket. That was not even done when I went to the Smithsonian! But the icing on the cake was when they told me I was too loud because I was reading to my 84 year old mother in a wheelchair. She has a hard time hearing and they had no devises to help her so of course u had to read! Stuffy and rude staff but nice artifacts. Do not bring kids (even though it is in the old orphanage)! read more

A real gem of a museum in historic Galveston. The artifacts are interesting and artfully displayed, the display placards eloquently written and the historic building a work of art in itself. Despite all that, my 7-year-old would've been a bit bored, but the interactive tablets at each of the displays kept him engaged. The films were also informative, and I appreciated how well-rounded the exhibits were, covering all of the diverse people who shaped Texas and the Southwest. read more

A wonderful, new museum in Galveston lodged in a historic orphanage, this place is wonderful! First off, the building has historic Galveston significance and is beautiful. Take time to walk around the gardens, enjoy the fountain, statues, and the museum gift shop, which is in the gardens. I understand a parking garage will be coming in the next year right next door. Currently, you have to grab street parking. Each room in the building houses a different collection, from Texas artists to the fight for independence, Indians in Texas, a large display of saddles, etc. The museum is handicap accessible via an elevator at the rear of the building. You can either take a narrated tour or just walk around on your own. The art collection featuring Texas artists was terrific. Downstairs in the basement is a fun area for children, with a tunnel and hidden pirates' treasure. I believe you can have wedding receptions and childrens' birthday parties here. The museum is open Friday through Monday, 11-4. read more

There is a ton of Texas history in the Bryan collection so if you are a Texas history buff this is a nice place. We had no idea it was ONLY Texas history. It's also a beautiful building and restored excellent. I rated it low because we felt it was like being in History class in grade school. To also mention that we felt we were in prison instead of enjoying our visit to Galveston. After paying $10 for admission they decided to inform us that less then half of the museum was a self guided tour. Wow surprise. Over half was a boring guided tour that took over a hour. On top of that all the GOOD stuff was on the guided tour. Mr. Bryan came on a screen and told us tons of history that was already in the museum itself. Who knows why ?The managers employees and security guards were kind buy made us feel like we were criminals. Closing Every door when we went in a room. It became creepy like we were trapped. We were even escorted to the restroom. Do they really think we were going to steal something ? read more

I became a member of the Bryan Museum in June 2015. Four months later, I have yet to receive a membership card. When I made my initial inquiry regarding a membership card in July, I was told that they had no record of me becoming a member. I gave them the membership number I was provided on their website, after signing up online, and then they apologized and said a welcome letter and membership card would be coming soon. After several more weeks of waiting, I called the membership director. She told me they hadn't settled on a graphic design for the cards yet, but would soon, and for me to feel free to come in anytime as a complete list of members would be at the desk for their staff to use for verification. So, at the end of August, I did just that. I brought a guest one beautiful Sunday afternoon and after identifying myself as a member, was told by the volunteer at the front desk that she didn't know where the member list was. She said she couldn't let me in without proof of membership and suggested I just go ahead and pay the entry fees, then call the offices on Monday and request a refund. I was so humiliated and embarrassed, I left. By example, I'm a member of several other small museums around the state of Texas, and receive newsletters, emails, invitations to private events and exhibit openings, etc. I would expect the same from this institution, yet, I have never received anything from this museum but a "thank you for joining" and it took two months to get that. Needless to say, I won't be renewing my membership. Complete waste of money. Next time I decide to throw away $50, I'll throw it to a small museum who truly appreciates it. read more

Bravo, Bryan!! After searching several venues with my daughter for her upcoming wedding, we decided to check out the Bryan Museum. After being given a tour of the stunning facilities by its wedding coordinator, Peter Ochoa, there was no doubt where the wedding was to be held; definitely The Bryan Museum. Not only are the facilities beautiful, the grounds are simply breathtaking! It's full-time horticulturist, Mitzi, is definitely second to none in her profession and maintains the flowers and greenery to perfection. After the freeze in January had destroyed much of the landscaping, we were worried about the upcoming photoshoot and wedding, but Mitzi and her crew worked diligently around the clock replacing dead vegetation with gorgeous, vibrant color! The wedding itself was amazing thanks to Peter, Richard, and the Bryan crew. Peter went above and beyond what we could ever ask for, as he coordinated everything on my daughter's special day, as if he himself was a family member. Family and friends who attended the wedding are still raving about how fabulous the wedding and venue were! I highly recommend the Bryan above all others, and I will tell everyone I know to book this venue for their Happily Ever After! read more