Texas Military Forces Museum

About this museum

Camp Mabry has been a working military installation in Austin since 1892, and the Texas Military Forces Museum on its grounds is one of the most impressive free military museums in the American South. The collection is substantial by any measure: a large and well - maintained assemblage of military vehicles - tanks, armored personnel carriers, artillery pieces, jeeps, and aircraft - displayed both indoors and on the grounds of the camp, alongside exhibits that trace the history of Texas military forces from the Republic of Texas's early militia companies through the National Guard's service in the wars of the twentieth and twenty - first centuries. Texas has a military history that is both longer and more complex than most states: the Texas Army National Guard traces its lineage back to 1823, predating American statehood by more than twenty years, and its service record spans conflicts from the Mexican - American War to Afghanistan. The exhibits give this history its due weight, presenting campaigns, units, and individuals with a level of research and care that distinguishes the museum from purely commemorative institutions. With a stellar 4.8 - star rating from more than 1, 567 reviews - one of the highest review counts of any free museum in Texas - the Texas Military Forces Museum has clearly earned its reputation as a must - see destination among Austin's cultural offerings. Admission is free. Open Monday through Saturday from 10AM to 4PM, the museum is located at 2200 West 35th Street on Camp Mabry, near the intersection of 35th Street and MoPac Expressway. More information is available at texasmilitaryforcesmuseum.org. This is a serious institution for serious enthusiasts, and a genuinely rewarding visit for general audiences as well.