Victoria, Texas, is a charming city with a rich history and a plethora of recreational activities. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or prefer indoor attractions, Victoria offers something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in the vibrant town of Victoria, TX.
17 Fantastic Things to Do in Victoria, Texas
Victoria, Texas, is a charming city with a rich history and a plethora of recreational activities. Whether you're an outdoor enthusiast or prefer indoor attractions, Victoria offers something for everyone. Here’s a guide to some of the best things to do in the vibrant town of Victoria, TX.
Outdoor Adventures in Victoria, TX
1. Explore Riverside Park
Riverside Park is one of Victoria's gems for recreational activities. Spanning over 660 acres along the Guadalupe River, it is perfect for picnicking, fishing, or simply enjoying the serene surroundings with a friend or family member.
2. Meet Animals at the Texas Zoo
For a fun family day out, visit The Texas Zoo, also located in Riverside Park.
The Texas Zoo is home to over 70 species of exotic animals and animals native to Texas. It’s a fun and educational destination for families, offering opportunities to see animals up close and a chance to learn about wildlife conservation. The zoo features animal encounters, keeper chats, and interactive exhibits to provide an engaging experience for visitors of all ages.
3. Birdwatch at Athey Nature Sanctuary Birding Deck
Birdwatching is a popular activity in Victoria, so the Athey Nature Sanctuary Birding Deck is the place to be. With three feeding stations to encourage a variety of fowl and interpretive maps listing various notable species – you’re sure to see some gorgeous local and migratory birds.
This 15-acre sanctuary is situated along the Guadalupe River and features trails, bird blinds, and a butterfly garden. It’s a haven for bird enthusiasts, offering opportunities to spot various bird species, including migratory birds. Bring your binoculars and enjoy a peaceful afternoon immersed in nature.
4. Go Fishing and Boating on the Coleto Creek Reservoir
Coleto Creek Reservoir is a fantastic destination for fishing and boating in Victoria. The reservoir is stocked with largemouth bass, catfish, and crappie, making it a favorite spot for fishing in Matagorda County. You can rent a boat or bring your own to explore the waters and enjoy a day of fishing.
If you want to extend your stay and enjoy the area's natural beauty, Coleto Creek Park also has picnic areas and campsites with well-maintained facilities.
5. Hike, Bike, and Paddle on Local Trails
Victoria offers several trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts. The Riverside Park trails provide scenic routes along the Guadalupe River, suitable for all skill levels.
Want to get out on the water? The Victoria Paddling Trails offer a unique way to explore the waterways in Victoria, TX, by kayak or canoe. These trails highlight the diverse ecosystems of Victoria and provide a refreshing outdoor experience.
6. Kayak on the Guadalupe River
For those who love water sports, kayaking on the Guadalupe River is a must. The river offers calm waters and beautiful scenery, making it ideal for a relaxing paddle. There are several rental shops in the area where you can get all the equipment you need to paddle on the Guadalupe River.
7. Explore Victoria Educational Gardens
Victoria Educational Gardens, located at the Victoria Regional Airport, is a beautiful place to visit for gardeners and outdoor enthusiasts.
This garden is maintained by the Victoria County Master Gardeners and features various themed gardens, including a butterfly garden and a vegetable garden. It’s a peaceful spot to learn about gardening, watch butterflies fly from flower to flower, and enjoy the different plant varieties.
8. Golf at Riverside Golf Course
Golfers visiting Victoria should not miss the Riverside Golf Course. This beautiful 27-hole public golf course has one 18-hole course and one 5-hole practice course. The golf course is located within Riverside Park and offers stunning views of the Guadalupe River.
The course is well-maintained and provides a challenging yet enjoyable experience for golfers of all skill levels. After a rousing round of golf, watch the ducks swim in the pond from the pagoda.
9. Skate at Victoria Skatepark
Victoria Skatepark is a popular place for those who enjoy skateboarding.
The park features various ramps, rails, and obstacles suitable for all skill levels. It’s a popular spot for locals and visitors alike to practice their tricks and enjoy some outdoor fun. Helmets and safety gear are recommended to ensure a safe experience.
Historical and Cultural Sightseeing in Victoria, TX
10. Visit the Museum of the Coastal Bend
Head to the Museum of the Coastal Bend in Victoria for a dose of history.
This museum showcases the rich history and heritage of mid-coastal Texas. Exhibits include artifacts from Native American cultures and Spanish, French, and Mexican colonial settlers. This is an educational and fascinating stop for anyone interested in the region’s intriguing past.
11. Attend Local Events and Festivals
Victoria hosts a variety of vibrant events and festivals throughout the year. Victoria Bach Festival is a celebration of classical music featuring performances by renowned musicians. To replace the beloved Bootfest, the Tejas Fest will be held from October 4th to 5th in the newly renovated DeLeon Plaza; similar to the Bootfest, this family-friendly event will have live music, food vendors and activities for kids.
Check the local event calendar to see what’s happening during your visit and experience the vibrant community spirit of Victoria!
12. Relax at De Leon Plaza
De Leon Plaza, located in the heart of downtown Victoria, is a historic square perfect for relaxing and people-watching. The plaza is surrounded by beautiful historic buildings and features a charming gazebo. It’s a great spot to unwind, enjoy a picnic, or attend a concert or art show.
13. Dine and Shop in Historic Downtown Victoria
Victoria’s Historic Downtown District is a charming area filled with beautiful architecture, unique shops, and delicious restaurants. Explore the local boutiques for unique finds, like challenging puzzles and Texas-themed souvenirs, and enjoy a meal at one of the many restaurants in Victoria, serving everything from Tex-Mex to Thai.
14. Attend a Performance at the Victoria Fine Arts Center
Victoria Fine Arts Center hosts a variety of performances, including theater productions, concerts, and dance shows. It’s a cultural hub that showcases local talent and brings in performers from around the country.
Check the schedule on the website to see what performances are available during your visit and enjoy a night of high-quality entertainment.
15. Enjoy the Victoria Art League
Art enthusiasts will enjoy visiting the Victoria Art League, a nonprofit organization formed in 1966 to encourage the creation, exhibition, education, and appreciation of art for both children and adults in Victoria. This gallery features works by local artists and hosts rotating exhibitions throughout the year. It’s a great place to see diverse art styles and support the local arts community.
In addition to the artwork already on display, the gallery often holds art classes and workshops, providing an opportunity to get creative during your visit.
16. Visit The Nave Museum
The Nave Museum, housed in a beautiful historic building, is Victoria’s oldest art museum. It features rotating art exhibits, including works by regional and national artists. The museum provides a quiet, reflective space to appreciate fine art and learn about different artistic expressions. It’s a must-visit for art lovers exploring Victoria.
17. Experience the Victoria Symphony Orchestra
Music lovers should not miss the opportunity to hear the Victoria Symphony Orchestra perform. The orchestra offers a season of concerts featuring classical and contemporary music. Attending a performance is an excellent way to enjoy a night of beautiful music and support the local arts scene.
Enjoy the Best of These Victoria, TX, Things to Do from Beachside — Your Laid-Back Texas Gulf Coast Getaway
Victoria, Texas, is a charming city with a range of activities for everyone. Whether you're interested in outdoor adventures, cultural experiences, or simply relaxing in a beautiful setting, you’ll love exploring all that Victoria and the surrounding area, like Corpus Christi, Houston, and Palacios, have to offer.
If you fall in love with the Texas Gulf Coast during a visit to Victoria, we hope you’ll book a tour of our build-ready homesites in nearby Palacios, TX. Learn more about our peaceful, welcoming community to discover why we love calling Beachside home!