Location: Rockport
Top Things to do in Rockport
Top 8 Things to do Good for a Rainy Day in Rockport, Texas (TX)
On the eastern coast of Texas, Rockport is a relaxing town with plenty of visitor attractions. The Fulton Mansion, overlooking Aransas Bay, showcases Second Empire architecture and is included on the National Register of Historic Places. Also visit the Texas Maritime Museum, the Rockport Center for the Arts and Rockport Beach Park, a great place for swimming or fishing.
Restaurants in Rockport
1. Rockport Art Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 94 reviews
Reviewed By joellenf2018
Although Hurricane Harvey destroyed the former Gallery, a smaller location fits the bill for the time being. Fabulous artists exhibit and call this Gallery their home. Can't wait for the new Gallery to be built that will increase the size however the staff are so wonderful and local artist are now showing at Estelle's Gallery in the interim. .
2. Fulton Mansion State Historic Site
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 154 reviews
The Fulton Mansion is now open after extensive repairs from damage caused by Hurricane Harvey. Rising above the Aransas Bay and surrounded by stately live oaks, the Fulton Mansion is located in the resort area of Rockport-Fulton. The house must have appeared incredible in 1877 with its mansard roof and ornate trim. Interior gas lighting, flush-toilets, and other refinements were progressive and luxurious elements for this part of Texas. Today, visitors journey through the restored home, getting a glimpse into the life of an affluent family in the late 1800s. Learn about 19th century innovations, walk through Harriet's garden, and hear stories of living in a grand Victorian villa.
Reviewed By Schwartz-Family77096 - Houston, United States
We had chosen to visit this museum in Rockport. It had several good reviews and had more recently recovered from Hurricane Harvey's devastation in 2017. Across the street from the mansion is the ticket office along with some informational displays. The people working here were very friendly and informative. Tours are self guided but we were welcomed by a docent in the foyer. She gave us an explanation about what we would find as well as some background story on the Fulton family. We enjoyed walking through the first two floors as well as the basement. Lots of old furniture and many items that supplemented items from the original Fulton family. Overall I thought is was a very good tour and very enriching as the family was a part of the growth of the cattle industry in Texas. Mr Fulton created mechanical refrigeration to help with processing beef, which could then be shipped by rail or ship to other places. Apparently the family had nearly 200,000 acres of land and served the King Ranch as well in beef processing. Please visit and enjoy a piece of Texas history.
3. Windway Gallery
4. Texas Maritime Museum
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 185 reviews
The Mission of the Texas Maritime Museum is to excite and educate the public about Texas Maritime history and artifacts. The Museum’s purpose is to offer a variety of experiences to children and adults by collecting, preserving, and interpreting items of historical interest for educational purposes; to recount Texas maritime history through artifacts, documents, and other materials of unique or historical value; and to exhibit items to further the public interest, knowledge, understanding, and appreciation of such material and related historical background. The Museum’s collections and exhibits are based on four central themes: History and Technology of offshore petroleum production and transportation History and Development of Texas seaports, maritime communities and maritime commerce along the Gulf of Mexico Exploration and Settlement history of the Texas Gulf Coast beginning with the Spanish and French The Texas seafood and fishing industry
Reviewed By kathrynm973
We went to the museum because we were interested in the artifacts from the French shipwreck LaBelle. Good collection of artifacts. We loved the outboard motor display, the shrimping industry and boats and especially the water colors of lighthouses. Not sure if any of those were temporary exhibits. The view from the top of the building is wonderful - on a clear day you can see for miles! Really good museum - not "deep" but broad, varied and informative. Take the kids!
5. Bay Education Center
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 86 reviews
Reviewed By smt123 - Battle Lake, United States
This place has just reopened three weeks ago, but the interactive sphere there is incredible. We could have stayed for hours. We will be back.
6. Winery on the Bay
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 73 reviews
Reviewed By 457staceyc - Lenexa, United States
Stumbled upon this hidden gem after shopping in downtown Rockport. Were greeted by the owner and given exceptional service. The wines we tasted were good as was the craft beer. Will definitely return.
7. History Center for Aransas County
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 9 reviews
Reviewed By archeohist
There are at least three different exhibits each year. You can visit in the winter,summer and fall to learn something different each time. Posters and artifacts tell stories about Aransas County. Small hands-on area for youth.
