Don’t miss this gem. Worth a half day at least. The museum has some very unique and interesting items.the first floor has a chronological arrangement of Texas history with some one of a kind early Spanish, Mexican and Republic of Texas documents and artifacts. Downstairs find history of the building’s use as an orphanage. Upstairs is some special exhibit (destination Moon today) and guns and spurs and art. Guided tours point out special items in each area. Our special treat was to meet THE Mr.Bryan.He told us about his collecting and gave us special insight to some of things he collected and how he acquired different items.

The staff here are wonderful. The young lady who checked us in, Ms. Bueno, was so sweet and knowledgeable. I loved the way they start you in the Orientation Gallery with a video of Mr. Bryan spanking to you as an introduction. We probably spent about 2 hours here. As I have back issues, I appreciated that in every room there were seats to rest in. There is also a restroom on the third floor. The collection is wonderful and so well appointed. Beautiful saddles, paintings, memorabilia. Do not miss learning about the history of the orphanage (the former use of this building). Ms. Bueno told us quite a bit about it, and we toured the ground floor which showcases the days of the orphanage. There is also a good brochure, Galveston Orphans Home, that gives you detailed information. I hope in the future they will allot more space to the history of the building and brighten up the ground floor as it has a very “drab” and dark feeling with limited lighting. Even though an orphanage, I think it was as a happy place as it could be given the circumstances of young women who had, or felt they had, to give up a child (or children). Thank you Mr. and Mrs. Bryan for your extreme generosity and philanthropy in sharing your collection with us and future generations to come. P.S. Be sure to visit the gift shop as they have beautiful and unique things. Jana Garcia, the shop/retail manager is delightful and so knowledgeable about the things for sale in the shop, including beautiful jewelry that she makes. I bought a wonderful hat here that came from Mexico and that she embellished with her personal touch. I just love it!

If you love learning about Texas history then you're in luck cause this place is all about history! Apparently the owner is a descendant of Stephen F. Austin so there are many authentic historical papers and memorabilia to see. There is a saddle exhibit which is pretty cool and a short film to watch about the hurricane of 1900. There are 2 floors of exhibits to go through so take your time and be sure to read about them all so you don't miss anything. There is a ground level as well with a small exhibit on the orphanage that used to be housed here and also a small exhibit about pirates and the early days of Galveston (not a lot of information on this one but the exhibit was kinda cool) so be sure to take the stairs down and check it out! The gift shop is in its own building located on the ground floor and is full of unique Texas souvenirs. They also do weddings at the Bryan Museum so some places may be off limits during that time. Be sure to walk outside once you are finished inside the museum to see all the little statues and the waterfall that was dedicated to the museum dog who passed a few years back. Quite a lot to see for the $14 admission price...so worth it!

The Bryan Museum has some really interesting exhibitions. I would have liked more information on the times it was an Orphanage though. Also… If you park in the museum parking lot, make sure you have a spot that will be easy to get out of if it gets crowded.

The Bryan Museum is located in an old orphanage and is now owned by the J. P. Bryan family. Persons interested in art, western and Texas history, and architecture should enjoy visiting this museum. Unfortunately, during our visit the library, which had been impressed on us as a room worth seeing, was undergoing remodeling and we were unable to appreciate it.

We ended up with terrible storms moving in on our weekend to Galveston. This museum was the perfect activity to let the storms pass. We learned some history, saw great artifacts, and enjoyed the current bird exhibit.

Oh, my! I had no idea this museum existed! (Of course, it's been 20 years since I was last in Galveston!) What a treasure! As a former Texas history teacher, I was floored by all of the original documents on display as well as the beautiful way they were displayed. There is so much to see and appreciate in this museum. It has become one of my favorites! All the people that work here are so friendly and clearly proud of this jewel of a museum--rightly so!

A beautiful building beautifully restored! Has a section dedicated for children. Don't miss the video there. Art, artifacts and dialogue make this a gem - especially if there's a shower. Don't miss the Farmers' Market Sunday or the rather informal one Thursday afternoon. Be sure to visit the Gift Shop - unique items example an egg timer that plays TX music to signal the doneness of the eggs..

This is an incredible collection of all things western. The saddles are absolutely gorgeous and you could spend hours studying their details. The art is amazing. It is wonderful to be allowed to share a collector’s passion and there is something for everyone to enjoy here. Beautifully presented and informative. This museum is a class act from start to finish. Children should really enjoy the pirate-themed area in the basement too. Just go!

A great place to learn about the history of Galveston. A two-hour tour to see the entire exhibits. 3 floors - elevator available. BOGO coupon at Galveston Visitor's Center in the Strand Area.