In the heart of the Texas Gulf Coast, Rockport has long been a hub of maritime heritage, vibrant art, and community spirit. Its story is intertwined with the evolution of rural America, showcasing the perseverance and ingenuity of its people. Now, for the first time, these stories are being celebrated on a national stage. Rockport clearly has a long history with many fascinating stories to tell, some of which are being told for the very first time...
See the exhibit in Rockport from January 25, 2025 through March 9, 2025.
The Smithsonian's national traveling exhibit, "Crossroads: Change in Rural America," will be travelling to seven small towns spread across Texas.
To catch the exhibit when it's in your neck of the woods, check out other dates and locations by visiting our main exhibit page.
From the stunning coastal views of Rockport Beach to the rich maritime heritage at the Maritime Museum, Rockport-Fulton offers a mix of history, culture, and natural beauty. Explore the charming local shops, indulge in fresh seafood at waterfront restaurants, and enjoy the thriving arts scene in the Rockport Cultural Arts District. With its picturesque landscapes and welcoming atmosphere, Rockport-Fulton is a perfect destination for those seeking relaxation, adventure, and a taste of Texas coastal life!
Each of the seven host communities plan to put their own local spin on the national story with additional exhibits, events, tours, and more.
Rockport, along with it's sister-city, Fulton, brings unique coastal charm and deep Texas heritage to the Smithsonian event with an exciting array of exhibits, local tours, and events. The story of Rockport is one of resilience, adaptation, and a deep connection to the sea. These cultural attributes are on full display at these local museums: The Rockport Railroad Museum, The official State of Texas Maritime Museum, The History Center for Aransas County, The Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, and The Fulton Schoolhouse Museum.
Local events throughout the town will immerse visitors in the traditions that define this charming fishing village. Self-guided tours will take you through Rockport's vibrant downtown, where historic homes and landmarks tell tales of the town's early beginnings and transformation into a thriving coastal community. Visitors can engage with the city’s culture by attending local boat tours, seafood tastings, or enjoying our local art scene in the Rockport Cultural Arts District, where the fusion of history and creativity is celebrated year-round. Rockport's local story is one of coastal pride, where history meets the sea in beautiful and unforgettable ways.
Expand the items below to find all the information you need to see the national traveling exhibit in Rockport. While you're there, take advantage of all there is to do in the Coastal Bend! Discover places to stay, dine, and things to do.
The national exhibit can be viewed at the Aransas County Community Center.
302 South Live Oak Street
Rockport, Texas 78382
There are several local exhibits at participating museums. Read more about them in the Local Exhibits section below.
The exhibit will be on display daily from January 25, 2025, to March 9, 2025.
Hours:
Monday-Saturday: 10:00 a.m-4:00 p.m.
Sunday: 12:00 p.m.-4:00 p.m.
Fee:
Free of charge
Free parking at the adjacent Aransas County Community Center Lot
Free street parking throughout downtown Rockport
The Aransas County Community Center is ADA Compliant.
While in town to see the Smithsonian's "Crossroads: Change in Rural America" exhibit, please visit the local exhibits at these excellent museums.
317 S. Fulton Beach Rd.
Rockport, Tx 78382
361-729-0386
Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
205 N. 7th Street
Fulton, TX 78382
361-729-5533
Hours:
Saturday: 1:00 m.- 4:00 p.m.
Private Tours available; please call
801 Cedar
Rockport, TX 78382
Hours:
Monday & Friday 10:00 a.m. - 2:00 p.m.
Saturday & Sunday 1:00 m. - 4:00p.m.
105 S. Magnolia Street
Rockport, TX 78382
Phone: 214-395-7156
Hours:
Monday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
Sunday: 1:00 p.m. - 4:00 p.m.
1202 Navigation Circle
Rockport, TX 78382
361-729-1271
Hours:
Tuesday - Saturday: 10:00 a.m. - 4:00 p.m.
While you're in town to see the exhibit, stay a while longer to enjoy the additional programming. For more information on other things to see and do while you're in check out the programs below.
Smithsonian "Crossroads: Change in Rural America" Exhibit Grand Opening
January 25, 2025
Vietnamese New Year Cultural Celebration
January 25, 2025
Film Round Up
February 1, 2025
"Starring Rockport" Screening
February 1, 2025
Vignettes from Texas History
February 7, 2025
Skits for Kids - Texas History
February 8, 2025
Music from the Past
February 8, 2025
Second Saturdays in the District
February 8, 2025
Book Signing and Showing of the Rockport-Fulton Art Colony
February 15, 2025
Pioneer Skills Hands-On Experience
March 8, 2025
Second Saturdays in the District
March 8, 2025
Smithsonian "Crossroads: Change in Rural America" Closing Event
March 9, 2025
Temari Balls - The Challenge of Embroidery on a Sphere (Katrina Brown)
January 26, 2025
Learn Lots About South Texas History
February 1, 2025
Vietnamese of the Texas Coast (Leah Nguyen Oliva)
February 3, 2025
The Challenge of What to Do with This Old Quilt (Julenna Fuller)
February 9, 2025
Copano: An Early Port for the Irish (David Kroskie)
February 10, 2025
Lipan Apache Tribe - A Buffalo Story (Juan Garcia)
February 15, 2025
Danish Watermen (Janie White)
February 17, 2025
Indianola: Port of Entry for the Germans (Carroll Brincefield)
February 24, 2025
Out of the Comfort Zone - A Quilter's Challenge (Sharon Wasteney)
March 9, 2025
"Footprints" Self-Guided Walking Tour
January 25 - March 9, 2025
Train Rides and Museum Tours at the Rockport S.A. & A.P. Depot
January 25 - March 9, 2025
Bus Tours to Taft Blackland Museum
February 1, 8, 15, 22; March 1, 8
Palacios Day - The Luther Hotel: Saved from the Wrecking Ball
February 22, 2025
Crossroads Day in Palacios
March 1, 2025
Tour at Aransas County Airport
March 1, 2025
Do you have films or videotapes at your home or business? Were they filmed in Texas or made by a Texan? Have you ever thought about digitizing them?
The Texas Historical Commission and Visit Brenham are teaming up with the Texas Archive of the Moving Image (TAMI) for the 2025 Texas Film Round-Up program, and we'll be in Brenham January 17-18 to help you digitize all your old home movies...for free!
