Fodor's Expert Review Art Museum of South Texas

Spacious galleries inside these white shellcrete walls designed by architect Philip Johnson have beckoned South Texas art lovers and tourists for more than four decades. In 2006, the museum doubled in size, adding gallery space and a café that overlooks the bay and ship channel. The permanent collection comprises more than 1,500 pieces in a variety of mediums, with concentration on works of the Americas, and especially the region contiguous to Texas. In addition to the exhibits, the museum presents classes, lectures, films, and performances to highlight the art and artists of the region and of the Americas. The café courtyard has unobstructed stunning views of the water. Look for a spectacular chandelier by iconic glass artist Dale Chihuly.