San Angelo

San Angelo grew around the frontier site of Fort Concho, established in 1867 at the junction of the north and middle branches of the Concho River. San Angelo became an early ranching center for cattle and sheep, and today, the nation’s largest primary wool and mohair market and major livestock auction center, as well as, the regional hub of cotton, grain and pecan production.

A variety of industries, medical and retirement facilities and Goodfellow Air Force Base lend diversity. Cultural resouces are supported by the symphony orchestra, ballet, the Cactus Jazz Series at the Cactus Hotel, and the Cactus Jazz and Blues Festival at the River Stage, and the state’s oldest civic theater. San Angelo is the home of Angelo State University.

Birding in and around the Concho Valley is great. More than 332 species of birds have been confirmed in the area.

Also, check out the old Cactus Hotel that was built in 1929, among the first Hilton Hotels. It houses a children’s museum, as well as a restaurant and coffee shop. The Crystal Ballroom is worth a peek.

Other spots of interest include the International Water Lily Collection, located in Civic League Park, the Old Chicken Farm Art Center, and the River Walk features beautiful gardens, 14 water displays, playground, walking/jogging trail, and a nine-hole golf course – all in downtown San Angelo.