Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural Center
The Emma S. Barrientos Mexican American Cultural center teaches about Hispanic culture and inspires new generations. Two galleries offer free access to exhibits by Latino artists, while a residency program hosts theatrical, dance, and music performances. Visitors can participate in a broad range of free and low-cost activities, including salsa dance classes, traditional craft workshops, music lessons, bilingual arts camps, and fitness classes conducted in Spanish.
The building’s stucco exterior recalls traditional Mexican architecture, while a stark white interior provides a modern contrast. An upstairs balcony awards a scenic view of Lady Bird Lake and a path of colored brick arranged in a pattern to form a Mexican Milk Snake. An outdoor courtyard features a sculpture that is part of the Trail of Tejano Music Legends, which partly parallels the Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail.