Fun Things To Do In Fort Stockton Texas Historic Old Pecos County Jail
The Old Pecos County Jail can be toured by appointment only. The curator lives outside of town and needs some advance notice to conduct a tour. Im sad that during our two visits to Fort Stockton that we havent managed to do this. Its definitely at the top of the list of things to do in Fort Stockton TX if we get to do a third trip. Fort Stocktons convenient location as a pit stop on I-1o make a return trip highly probably, so Ill have to plan better next time.
My kids LOVED touring the old jail museum in Gonzales, Texas and we were super bummed that we missed out on this one. Poor planning on my part for sure. This is top of our list of fun things to do in Fort Stockton Texasthird times a charm, right?
Where Is Fort Stockton Tx
Fort Stockton is located in West Texas at the intersection of I-10 and Highway 385.
Its roughly 5 hours west of Austin, 55 minutes north of , and 3.5 hours east of El Paso.
Exploring some of the fun things to do in Fort Stockton, Texas is easily combined with a road trip to Big Bend from Austin or central Texas in generalyoull pass right through town on the way, and Fort Stockton is a great place to stretch your legs during a long trip!
Inside The Annie Riggs Museum
Beautiful inside and out, the Annie Riggs Museum is housed in a former frontier hotel and boarding house from the early 20th century that was run by none other than Annie Riggs herself.
The museum includes not only the history of the boarding house, but of Fort Stockton and Pecos County as a whole, and its undoubtedly one of the best places to visit in Fort Stockton.
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History Of Fort Stockton
Once upon a time, soldiers of the 1st and 8th Infantries were stationed at this West Texas outpost to protect travelers heading west to Mexico and California from San Antonio.
Fort Stockton was settled because of its proximity to Comanche Springs, a source of spring water source along the trail from San Antonio to El Paso.
Check out these 6 fun things to do in Fort Stockton Texas:
Pecos County Historical Jail
As one of the oldest structures in town, the Pecos County Historic Jail has a riveting story to tell. Built in 1883 and enlarged in 1913, the jail is located on the south side of the courthouse square in Fort Stockton, the Pecos County seat.
Today, the old jail serves as a museum of local sheriffs and law enforcement, but 125 years ago it was a hotbed of Old West drama. According to the Texas Historical Association, the jail was overseen in the late 1800s and early 1900s by two notorious sheriffs one, Sheriff A.J. Royal, who was murdered in his courthouse office in 1894, and another, Sheriff Dud Barker, who was voted out of office in a bitter election in 1926 after serving as sheriff for 22 years.
To this day, Who killed Sheriff Royal? remains one of the great mysteries of Pecos County, according to information from the Annie Riggs Memorial Museum. Modern-day visitors to the jail can immerse themselves in the intrigue, walking where past sheriffs walked and visiting the original 1883 holding cell and mid-20th century cell blocks.
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Food In Fort Stockton Texas
Wondering where to eat in Fort Stockton? There are a handful of places to eat, to include Mexican, BBQ, fast food and Mexican. The restaurant choices are heavy on Mexican food, which is not a problem for our family.
Weve tried Mi Casita and Pepitos Cafe and would recommend both. Neither are fancy and both could be described as hole in the wall but those places usually have the best food.
The food at Mi Casita was authentic and delicious but everything we ordered, to include the cheese quesadilla we ordered for my then-eight-year-old was very spicy. If you dont like spicy food, you might want to reconsider eating here or at least let the server know before you order.
Also, Mi Casita is small I counted 10 four-top tables. We were the first ones there after their five oclock opening time and by the time we left, the place was full to capacity and the only empty tables had reserved signs on them. Note: Mi Casita doesnt sell alcohol but youre welcome to bring it in.
Pepitos has a variety of authentic Mexican dishes as well full menu of other types of dishes, such as burgers, chicken fried steak and pasta. Their signature dish seems to be a large schooner full of ceviche style shrimp cocktail they have a picture posted on the wall and I saw several go out to the various tables while we were there. Pepitos does sell alcohol.
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Tour Historic Fort Stockton
While you can technically trace the history of the military fort that the town of Fort Stockton derives its name from to 1858, little is left of the pre-Civil War forttoday, visitors can tour parts of the Historic Fort Stockton that was established in 1867.
The forts main purpose was to protect the new settlers on the frontier from the Native Americans who call the region home.
Its particularly notable for the presence of Buffalo Soldiers from the 9th cavalry, Black men who enlisted in the US Army after the conclusion of the Civil War.
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Grab A Drink At The Grey Mule Saloon
Once a classic Wild West saloon populated with everyone from cowboys to a local sheriff who met an untimely demise in the courthouse , the Grey Mule Saloon of today operates as a tasting room for Texas own Mesa Vineyards.
Today, you can walk across the street from the Annie Riggs Museum and sit down in the Grey Mule with a glass of wine and a cheese plate in the same room where gangsters once gambled late into the night.
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- If you intend to stay in the United States for 60 days or longer, become fully vaccinated against COVID-19 within 60 days of arriving in the United States or as soon as medically appropriate.
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Authentic Mexican Cuisine And Steak Houses
Fort Stockton rightfully has a reputation as a spot for excellent Mexican and Tex-Mex cuisine. The Visit Fort Stockton website lists nearly 20 restaurants and food trucks that offer menus with countless variations of burritos, tacos, and enchiladas.
Among the standouts are Tacos OJ, known for its huge selection of taco fillings, such as beef brisket, pork al pastor, and beef barbacoa and Mi Casita, where chile rellenos and smothered burritos are among the favorites.
Fort Stockton is also home to a number of steakhouses, including K-Bobs Steakhouse, known for its chicken-fried steak and variety of steak cuts, and the Steak House Restaurant, which features both steaks and Mexican cuisine.
Take A Swim At The Comanche Springs Pool And Pavilion
Fort Stockton is known for being the location of the Big Cheif Spring, and in 1938 came the construction of a pavilion.
It took fifteen years after the pavilion’s construction that the pool came into existence.
As a result of the pool’s construction, it became the Water Carnival venue.
The pool is closed on Mondays and releases updates on its status on their social media page.
If you want to know the best time to visit the pool and their admission fees, you can contact their staff.
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Treat Yourself To Something Sweet At Mesquite Tree Gifts & Ice Cream Shop
If you head over to the Mesquite Tree Gifts & Ice Cream Shop, you’ll find a variety of sweets and ice creams.
In addition to the different sweets you can try, the shop also offers a selection of ice and hot coffee.
If the sweets and coffee aren’t enough, the Mesquite Tree Gifts & Ice Cream Shop also provides a range of other products including, accessories, gifts, and food items if you’re looking for something savory to try.
Sip Wine In A Texas Saloon
Though theyre included on the driving tour, two pieces of Fort Stockton lore deserve special mention. Built in the 1880s as a watering hole for cowboys, Texas Rangers, and soldiers stationed nearby, Grey Mule Saloon is enjoying a revival as a tasting room. Owned by Mesa Vineyards, the largest winemaker in the state, the saloon has exchanged whiskey and bourbon for Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Riesling from Ste. Genevieve, Mesa Vineyards most popular brand. They also pour a number of wines made from grapes grown exclusively in Texas. Enjoy a glass in the quaint tasting room, with its hardwood floors and stainless-steel bar, or step out onto the patio if you want to stretch out. In the tasting room gift shop, you can find accessories, wine baskets, chocolates, olive oils, and more.
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What My Students Say
“Sylvie’s yoga classes are excellent, but they go far beyond the asana postures that most yoga classes focus on. She offers deep insights into the science and philosophy of mind and you always walk away with a new perspective on whatever issues you might be going through. 10/10 highly recommended.” – Jeffrey
“Sylvie is not your typical yoga teacher. She brings so much more to the table! Her depth of knowledge in the practice of yoga, breathwork, meditation, energy work and yoga philosophy, all comes into play with each session. My life has been enriched with her teachings and my day so improved after a class.” – Linda
“Sylvie has shown me that there is so much more to yoga than the postures, or the physical aspect of yoga. Studying with her I have not only gotten stronger and more flexible but I have learned a great deal about yoga philosophy, the Eight Limbs of Yoga and the spiritual foundations of this practice. Her extensive studies in a number of other countries seem to be woven into each yoga class she teaches. For me personally, its helped to bring the spiritual principles of yoga into my everyday life. – Liz
Best Things To Do In Fort Stockton Tx
Fort Stockton, which you can find within the west side of Texas, is the county seat of Pecos County,
With a population of 8,497 and a history going back to 1859, this Texan city is rich in history and attractions to explore.
The city may not be the biggest, with an area size of fewer than twenty kilometers, but there is a list of options to choose from when visiting this city.
You can find plenty of historical gems and unique eateries in Fort Stockton it’s only a matter of knowing where to look.
Bearing that in mind, here are the 17 best things to do in Fort Stockton, Texas:
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Explore Old Structures At Historic Fort Stockton
One of the first historical gems you need to see in the city is the Historic Fort Stockton.
First established in 1867, the historical sight was home to the “Buffalo Soldiers,” also known as the “9th Calvary,” and became a center of employment for various people.
Due to its location near Comanche Springs, the former camp protected the San Antonio-El Paso road.
Currently, the site is under the management of the Fort Stockton Historical Society and is open for visitations.
The main feature you’ll find at this location is the recreation of different old buildings and rooms, including office barracks and quarters.
You can visit Historic Fort Stockton on any weekday and check out their website for any further information.
Best Things To Do In Fort Stockton Texas
Have you ever visited a new place and felt wow about it? For many visitors, it happens at Fort Stockton.
Fort Stockton may not be as popular as other cities in United States, but dont let that fool you. Fort Stockton is a smaller but beautiful upcoming tourist destination that is worth a visit. You will be surprised by some of the unique things to do and places you can explore at this hidden destination.
You might wish to revisit it someday again, to take a break and relax at Fort Stockton.
If you have plans to visit United States and are not sure if Fort Stockton should be included in your itinerary, keep reading. In this list, we have put together some of the things to do in Fort Stockton and around. We have a hunch that if you include this city in your travel plans, you will be thrilled you did so.
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Check Out The Pecos County Courthouse
Originally constructed in 1838, the Pecos County Courthouse looks a bit different than it did in the 19th century. The courthouse was once topped by a dome, similar to what you can see in Granbury today, but it now has a flat roof.
The courthouse grounds are also home to the Zero Stone, which once acted as the starting place for all land surveys in West Texas.
Attractions In Fort Stockton
Fort Stockton offers one of the richest historical experiences youre likely to find in the Lone Star State, and many of its top attractions are businesses or buildings that have served the towns residents for decades. Some, like the Grey Mule Saloon, have transformed to cater to modern tastes while preserving those links with the past, giving them a double dose of charm and color. While more recent additions to the city of Fort Stockton, like The Garage coffeehouse, may just be starting out, theyre already making a name for themselves as must-visit spots for travelers. The following are some of the top attractions in Fort Stockton to check out when you travel here.
Annie Riggs Memorial MuseumThe blood-stained desk of a notorious local sheriff, the tusks of a Columbian mammoth, and a Sears & Roebuck cast-iron bed from 1900 are some of the curios on display at this popular Fort Stockton museum. During the summer, free live concerts are staged on the patio. Open six days a week. 301 South Main Street
Historic Fort StocktonThe garrison that gave the town its name is today listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Tour the officers quarters, enlisted mens barracks, and other original buildings that have been restored to their 19th century state. A visitors center and museum exhibits will guide you through the forts long and storied history. 301 East 3rd Street 336-2166
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Downtown Fort Stockton Driving Tour
The Downtown Fort Stockton Driving Tour is a handy compilation of 16 of the communitys notable spots. Along with prominent attractions like the visitor center and historic fort, it also includes significant historic sites like the Grey Mule Saloon and the Old School and Army Telegraph Office.
Pro Tip: Fort Stockton has a number of chain motels and RV parks available for an overnight stay. The I-10 community also makes a good day-trip option from nearby Big Bend Country towns like Marathon and Alpine.
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Go Camping At The Fort Stockton Rv Park
If you are interested in camping, head to the Fort Stockton RV Park.
The park allows for tents and convenient spaces for you to set up.
A few amenities you can check out at this site include different pathways and accessible washrooms.
When camping at the park, there are different rules you need to observe, including check-out time.
Aside from the amenities, the park also provides a cafe where you can enjoy some caffeine and a meal.
There are different rates you can check out on the park’s website, along with further details on park rules and regulations.
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Historic Old Pecos County Jail
On the south side of the courthouse square, in Fort Stockton, there stands one of the oldest and most imposing structures in West Texas â the Old Pecos County Jail was built in 1883 and enlarged in 1913. The structure houses the museum of local sheriffs, an 1883 holding cell and a mid-20th-century cell block. The prison was functioning until the year 2000 and you can see the second floor, where the prisoners were kept and the ground floor, which housed various sheriffs, deputies, and jailers.
Historic Old Pecos County Jail
Address: 101 W Gallagher St, Fort Stockton, TX 79735-7113, USA
