The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum and Texas Ranger Museum Admission

San Antonio , United States

The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum and Texas Ranger Museum Admission

Active

(169 reviews)

1h - 2h

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Delve into a truly unusual museum experience at the Buckhorn Saloon & Museum and Texas Ranger Museum. Located only two blocks from the Alamo, the Buckhorn exhibits an astounding collection of taxidermy animals, western-flavored Americana, impressive antler racks, and much more. In the same building, the Texas Ranger Museum features historic artifacts from the famed Texas law enforcement division and Ranger Town, a replica of San Antonio in the 1900s. You can even bring a purchased drink from the saloon into the museum.

Available options

The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum and Texas Ranger Museum Admission

What's included

All Fees and Taxes

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Since its founding in 1881, the Buckhorn Saloon has grown from a bar decorated with antler racks into an impressive collection of taxidermy with more than 520 animal species represented, in addition to other spectacular exhibits.

Make your way to the site and browse the fascinating collections in the Hall of Horns, Hall of Feathers, and Hall of Fins. Among the treasures to behold: a Texas Longhorn with horns that measure more than 8 feet (2.5 meters) across; a record-breaking 1,056-pound (479-kilo) marlin that was caught in Peru; oddities such as an 8-legged lamb and a 2-headed calf; and other impressive horns that include a 78-point buck and a moose with a 5-foot, 7-inch (1.7-meter) rack. Prized specimens include rare and extinct creatures such as an Irish elk and a pair of passenger pigeons.

In the old days, the saloon's owners traded with cowboys, exchanging beer or whiskey for antlers and rattlesnake rattles. They then created chairs from the antlers, such as a 62-horn chair for Teddy Roosevelt, and art pieces from the rattles. See these pieces, then step into the past in the Hall of Texas History Wax Museum section. Dioramas that depict early Texas were originally featured at San Antonio’s Hemisphere World's Fair in 1968.

The Texas Ranger Museum is a more recent addition to the Buckhorn’s collection. It includes artifacts from two centuries of Texas law enforcement, including historic revolvers, sawed-off shotguns, photographs, badges and more. Ranger Town recreates San Antonio life in the early 1900s.

While visiting this fascinating attraction, you can stop into the saloon and cafe for lunch or a locally-brewed beer (each at own expense); you're welcome to bring your drink into the museum.

What's not included

Alcoholic drinks (available to purchase)

Food and drinks

Hotel pickup and drop-off

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.4

14 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.1

155 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Important information

Wheelchair accessible

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Transportation options are wheelchair accessible

All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

On-site cafe daily from 11am to 3pm for lunch.

Minimum drinking age is 21 years

Important notes

• The tour does not include food or drinks, however there is a lunch cafe on-site open daily from 11AM to 3PM for lunch. There is also a full-service bar open daily at 11AM. The Buckhorn Saloon encourages touring the museum with a drink in hand, just like the cowboys did in the old days.

About San Antonio

San Antonio is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks. It offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination in Texas.

Top Attractions

The Alamo

A historic Spanish mission and fortress, famous for the Battle of the Alamo in 1836.

Historical 1-2 hours Free

River Walk

A network of walkways along the San Antonio River, lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions.

Scenic Half-day Free to walk, boat tours cost around $12-$15

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

A series of historic Spanish missions, including Mission San Jose, the largest and best-preserved.

Historical Half-day Free

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

A major theme park with thrilling rides, water attractions, and live entertainment.

Entertainment Full-day $50-$70 per person

The Pearl

A historic brewery turned into a vibrant district with shops, restaurants, and cultural events.

Cultural Half-day Free to explore, varies for dining and shopping

Must-Try Local Dishes

Tex-Mex

A fusion of Mexican and Texan cuisine, featuring dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and fajitas.

Lunch/Dinner Vegetarian options available.

BBQ

Slow-smoked meats like brisket, ribs, and sausage, served with classic BBQ sides.

Lunch/Dinner Not vegetarian-friendly.

Breakfast Tacos

A local favorite, featuring eggs, cheese, and various fillings wrapped in a tortilla.

Breakfast Vegetarian options available.

Churro Ice Cream Sandwich

A popular dessert featuring ice cream sandwiched between two crispy churros.

Dessert Vegetarian.

Popular Activities

Tubing on the Comal River Hiking in the Hill Country Kayaking on the San Antonio River Spa treatments at luxury resorts Boat tours on the River Walk Shopping at The Pearl Visiting the McNay Art Museum Exploring the Briscoe Western Art Museum

Best Time to Visit

March to May, and October to November

These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.

15-30°C 60-85°F

Practical Information

Language

Official: English
Widely spoken: Spanish
English: Widely spoken

Currency

US Dollar (USD)

Time Zone

Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)

Electricity

120VV, 60HzHz

Safety Information

Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe

San Antonio is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less touristy areas.

Important Precautions:

• Keep valuables secure
• Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps
• Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help

Getting there

By air

San Antonio International Airport • 10 miles from city center
Stinson Municipal Airport • 8 miles from city center

By train

San Antonio Amtrak Station

By bus

Greyhound Station, Megabus Stop

Getting around

Public transport

Affordable and reliable, with various routes covering major attractions.

Taxis

Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft

Rentals

Car, Bike, Scooter

Neighborhoods

Downtown The Pearl King William Historic District Southtown La Cantera

Day trips

Fredericksburg

60 miles from San Antonio • Full day

A charming German-inspired town known for its wineries, historic sites, and annual events like Oktoberfest.

Austin

80 miles from San Antonio • Full day

The vibrant capital of Texas, known for its live music scene, outdoor activities, and unique cultural attractions.

San Marcos

30 miles from San Antonio • Half-day

A scenic town known for its outdoor activities, including tubing on the San Marcos River and visiting the historic Texas State University campus.

Festivals

San Antonio River Walk Festival • March San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo • February Fiesta San Antonio • April

Pro tips

Visit the Alamo early in the morning to avoid crowds and long lines.
Take a boat tour of the River Walk for a unique perspective and a relaxing experience.
Explore the historic missions on a bike for a fun and active day trip.
Try local Tex-Mex and BBQ dishes for an authentic San Antonio culinary experience.
Check for seasonal events and festivals, as they can enhance your visit and offer unique experiences.