It's your last chance to visit and view the special holiday exhibit at the Institute of Texan Culture in San Antonio, a noteworthy collection of Nutcracker memorabilia, a comprehensive doll collection, and a model railroad exhibit that features over 120 feet of miniature track complete with trains and landscaping. The museum, operated by the University of Texas system, is a corner stone of San Antonio's downtown museum offering. And the current exhibit (which ends this weekend), compliments the ongoing exhibits of Texas history and the cultural influences of the pioneer immigrants who settled the young Texas Republic. The museum is located on the Hemisfair Plaza grounds, the site of the 1968 San Antonio World's Fair. Visitors may wish to visit adjacent landmark sites like the Tower of the Americas, located directly in front of the museum, and the water gardens that surround it. The 750-foot tall structure is the second tallest tower of its kind in North America, shadowed only by Las Vegas' Stratosphere tower which reaches more than a 1,000 feet into the sky. In the photo to the left, recent Winter Texan visitors experienced one of the many 'living exhibits' at the museums, a replica post office station, circa early 20th century. Other living history exhibits include a series of weaving looms and textile (cotton) spinning wheels where museum volunteers continually demonstrate the historical art of textile manufacturing. Other exhibit highlights includes a children's section where the kids can try on different period-piece wardrobing, and hands on exhibits involving pioneering life in early Texas. From what an old grocery store looked like to actual antique artifacts from early life in the state, the museum offers a great deal to see and do for all ages. So whether you're a Winter Texan or a teenager wanting to understand the history and culture of Texas past, the Institute of Texan Culture is a must visit on your traveling agenda. Combine the visit with one or several other San Antonio attractions and you'll find your trip to the Alamo City was well worth the visit. Watch for changing exhibits at the museum in the weeks ahead and stay tuned for additional information about the Lone Star State's most colorful and historic city - San Antonio!