Institute of Texan Cultures – Where Texas Stories Come Alive

At the Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC), the rich tapestry of Texas history and culture unfolds in fresh, immersive ways. Located smack-dab in the middle of San Antonio, the ITC blends powerful storytelling with engaging multimedia to celebrate the stories of the many people who have called Texas home.

As a Smithsonian Affiliate, the institute brings world-class exhibits and thoughtful design together in a welcoming, interactive environment for families, students, and curious explorers of all ages. Here, culture isn’t just on display; it invites your participation. The museum’s central gallery, Common Threads, is about the shared experiences that unite all Texans while also honoring the unique traditions of particular communities. Organized into four thematic sections—Home and Family Life, Honoring Heritage and Traditions, Arts and Culture, and Celebrating Community—the museum encourages you to make connections across time, space, and grassroots experiences. A rotating gallery complements this core experience, featuring exhibitions that highlight additional stories, perspectives, and themes from across the Lone Star State.

Through hands-on multimedia, interactive discovery stations, and thoughtful storytelling, ITC offers new ways to explore Texas' unique character. Touch-screen kiosks and projection-rich galleries take you on a journey through the state’s regions and invite you to engage with objects and narratives from diverse communities. Playful experiences, such as the “Pack the Trunk” activity, spark conversations about migration, memory, and identity, while interactive hotspots encourage a deeper discovery of artifacts—from drums and quilts to everyday objects that reflect the spirit of their people.

ITC’s curatorial vision emphasizes connection rather than passively glancing around at objects behind glass. The idea to better link people to forgotten stories, big questions, and to one another. This approach reflects the dynamic, ever-evolving nature of culture, inviting you not just to observe history, but to build your own understanding of what Texas means today.

Whether you’re a Texan discovering the threads that tie your community into the broader state story, a visitor exploring the traditions that built the state, or a family looking for an engaging day of learning and creativity, the Institute of Texan Cultures welcomes you to explore, interact, and be inspired.