Outdoors
Brazos Bend State Park
At Brazos Bend State Park, which has been named Home of the American Alligator, the gators are hanging out on the trails and enjoying the park just like the tourists. Its the best and safest way to get up close and personal with the scaly creatures. Be sure to hit up the Nature Center to learn more about these swamp gators and the other ecosystems and animals in the park.
Culture
Fort Bend Museum
The beginning of Richmond dates back to the start of Texas in the 1820s when Stephen F. Austin brought the first official settlers to Texas and many of them settled on the Brazos River banks. To learn more about the first settlers visit the Fort Bend Museum. You can also learn about Richmonds famous feud, the Jay Birds vs. the Woodpeckers (which is surprisingly not about birds at all ) and you can see Deaf Smiths grave.
George Ranch Historical Park
The George Ranch Historical Park is an awesome place to not only learn about the George Family but also about the early pioneer days of Texas. This living history experience takes you through four generations of the George Family. The historic houses on the ranch span from the 1830s to the 1930s giving you a peak into life in the different eras of Texas. If you happen to be in town on a Saturday, stop by the ranch for a full historic meal.
George Observatory
For a glimpse into the galaxies and beyond, head to the George Observatory in nearby Needville, TX. The massive telescope makes it look like Jupiter and Orions Belt are within reach. This fascinating view of the night skies is definitely one you dont want to miss.
Joseph's Coffee & Cigars
The best place to get a cup of Joe and learn a little bit about Richmonds history is at Josephs Cigars. This historic shop started in 1903 by the Josephs as a cart that sold candy and peanuts around town. Now more than 100 years later its run by 4th generation Michael Joseph who is carrying on the family tradition. It serves up delicious coffee and a hodgepodge of eclectic items from antique guns to English sporting goods.
Food
Country Pho
While youre in town, you wont have to look far for exotic cuisine in fact, you can find amazing Vietnamese food at Country Pho in the neighboring town of Rosenberg. Owners Le and Chau cook authentic pho (pronounced fuh) and other phenomenal dishes made with recipes from their home city of Ho Chi Mihn City (Saigon). The hand-stuffed spring rolls and homemade peanut sauce are out of this world and a must-try!
Larrys Original Mexican Restaurant
At Larrys Original Mexican Restaurant, each dish is served with a side of Tex-Mex history this Richmond institution has been opened since the 1960s and not much has changed since. During their many decades of service, theyve mastered the cheese enchilada which comes bathed in perfect cheesy goodness. And just like back in the good ol days, chili con carne (a Tex-Mex staple) is served on everything including noodles! Order the Spaghetti Mexicana if youre brave.
