Institute of Texan Cultures reopens at Frost Tower
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ITC's new space. Photo: Courtesy of UT San Antonio
The Institute of Texan Cultures (ITC) reopens Thursday at Frost Tower, though it's unclear if this will be its permanent home.
Why it matters: The reopening reconnects San Antonians with one of the city's most beloved museums after an 18-month relocation from its longtime location near Hemisfair.
Flashback: The original ITC building — the Texas Pavilion — was built for the 1968 World's Fair and housed the museum for more than 50 years.
- After the fair, the University of Texas system assumed control of the site and later granted the city of San Antonio exclusive rights to purchase the land for a new Spurs arena and broader downtown redevelopment.
- The building was demolished last year.
Zoom in: The new gallery preserves select elements from the former museum, including a neon Texas sign and granite pieces repurposed as benches.
- "Common Threads," the main gallery exhibition, explores shared themes across Texas cultures.
- "Mumentous," a traveling exhibit, celebrates the Texas tradition of homecoming mums and features an 18-foot mum made with 4,000 feet of ribbon.
By the numbers: ITC downsized from 180,000 square feet to 8,000, according to the SA Report.
- Officials did not comment on which elements of the original museum could not be brought over.
What they're saying: "We chose stories that show how Texas continues to evolve — stories that spark conversation, invite reflection and resonate across generations," Monica Perales, ITC associate vice provost, told Axios in a statement.
What we're watching: The Frost Tower site was introduced as a temporary home while UTSA evaluates a permanent downtown location.
- University officials did not respond to a request for timelines.
What's next: Admission is free through Sunday in celebration of the reopening.
- Regular admission begins Feb. 5 and is $10 for adults; $5 for youth, seniors and military; and free for children under 5 and UT San Antonio students and staff.