Things to Do in San Angelo
San Angelo, Texas, still embraces its cattle-wrangling, gunslinging past
Though the cowboys now drive pickup trucks and the Longhorns live in a protected park, San Angelo celebrates its rich Southwestern history daily. Take a stroll downtown to see famous murals, go stargazing at Angelo State University's Planetarium or spend some time in the great outdoors. With all this to do, San Angelo, Texas has a range of things to do that suit every member of your crew.
The Historic Murals of San Angelo
Pick up a, “Guide by Cell,” card at the San Angelo Visitor Center and take a walking tour of the murals throughout the city. You'll find paintings of an authentic blacksmith shop, a stagecoach and the 503 Iron Horse steam train—the first locomotive to pull into town. The historic Santa Fe Depot and Cromwell Airlines (a passenger air service that started in the 1930s) are also on display. Use the phone number provided on the card and the individual mural numbers to hear recorded explanations while you're wandering about.
Views of Heaven and Earth
Do a bit of stargazing at the Angelo State University Planetarium. Weekly shows explore everything from individual stars to seismic activity. The earthquake show gives you a bird's-eye view of the San Andreas Fault and a look at the 1906 San Francisco earthquake that leveled the city. It explains how the breakup of the supercontinent Pangaea created all those fault lines. The HD digital projection and oversized tilted dome give these luminous shows that wow factor. Although tickets are reasonably priced, be sure to take advantage of discounts for children and seniors.
Longhorns and a Vintage Fort
Nearly a century ago, Texas Longhorns were the cattle of choice because of their hardy nature and ability to survive in hot, dry climates. Head out to San Angelo State Park and you might see some of these animals with their amazingly wide horns—they're part of the Official State of Texas Longhorn Herd. While in the park, check out the American Indian rock art, take to the trails for a little wildlife watching, or go swimming at O.C. Fisher Lake. The Fort Concho Historic Monument is roughly 5 miles west of the park. Take a guided or self-guided tour of this restored cavalry fort, including the post headquarters, the barracks, officers' quarters, hospital and chapel.
Spicy Eats and Sweet Treats
You can’t leave San Angelo without getting a taste of their Mexican food—check out Original Henry's (3015 Sherwood Way, San Angelo) for some of the best Mexican food in town. The bright, casual interior makes the homemade enchiladas, quesadillas and flavorful salsas seem even more authentic. If you're in the mood for a steak, Original Henry's has you covered there, too. The Dunbar Restaurant (1728 Pulliam St., San Angelo) looks much like an old-fashioned diner with its rooftop "restaurant" sign. Here you can order almost any type of breakfast. For lunch or dinner, indulge in grilled pork chops, fried chicken, burgers or Mexican food. If the funny little dinosaur logo at Iggy's Italian Ice (37 W. Concho Ave., San Angelo) doesn't make you smile, the homemade ice creams certainly will. Sample flavors such as piña colada, margarita and strawberry kiwi, or go for the more indulgent red velvet, German chocolate or butter pecan ice creams.
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