Texas has been a focal point for the United States military since the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. Because of its strategic location on the border with Mexico, three Army bases are located in the state. As public institutions, the bases are open to the public for tours, providing a glimpse into Army life as it has evolved since the 19th century.
The Fort Bliss Army base is the second-largest Army facility in the United States. The headquarters are located next to El Paso, Texas, and has 1.1 million acres. Tours of Fort Bliss take three hours and are not available on Sundays or federal holidays. Visitors will see the current base site and the U.S. Army Air Defense Artillery Museum, as well as five previous base locations, and a former home of General John "Black Jack" Pershing.
Fort Bliss
1 Pershing Road
Fort Bliss, TX 79916
(915) 568-2121
bliss.army.mil
Fort Hood is located in central Texas, halfway between Waco and Austin. The base covers 340 square miles, and is open to the public every day except New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving and Christmas from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The highlight of the tour is the 1st Cavalry Division Museum. Bring a driver's license, because you will need it to get a pass from the visitors center or from a checkpoint when your car is examined prior to entry.
Fort Hood
III Corps and Fort Hood
Fort Hood, TX 76544
(254) 288-2023
pao.hood.army.mil
It's fitting that an Army based located in San Antonio, Texas is named for the first President of the Republic of Texas. Army Medical Command headquarters is located there. The museums are open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Wednesday through Sunday, as well as Memorial Day, Independence Day and Veteran's Day. Tours are self-guided, and visitors can see the the Fort Sam Houston Museum, U.S. Army Medical Museum and a former home of Dwight D. Eisenhower. Check in at the Walters Street gate prior to entering the base.
Fort Sam Houston
1206 Stanley Road, Suite A
Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234-5001
(210) 221-1211
samhouston.army.mil
