Why You Should Visit
The museum is a look into the controversial Vietnam era, intending to tell an unbiased story from the many points of view of the people involved while honoring those who served.
Great Field Trip for These Topics:
Vietnam War
US History
World History
Armed Forces/Military
Where to Begin Your Field Trip
Mineral Wells was chosen as the site for the museum because of the iconic helicopters. They are the symbol most people associate with the Vietnam War with, and most of the pilots during this time began their training at Fort Wolters in Mineral Wells, TX.
Begin at the Visitor Center. Stop in to sign the guest book and peruse the indoor exhibits. A knowledgeable volunteer, many of whom are veterans, will answer any question you have.
Fun Fact: The Visitor center itself has some interesting history apart from the Vietnam Era. It served as White House headquarters on the George W. Bush Ranch during his presidency
What Can You Expect to See & Do While Here?
The museum is comprised of the visitor center with a small collection of exhibits and a gift shop, and also six outdoor gardens for quiet contemplation.
Inside the visitor center, you will find rotating exhibits telling the story of the Vietnam War from many different points of view.
The Meditation Garden: This is the first garden built on the grounds. It features two circular labyrinths, a gazebo, and seating areas.
The Contemplation Garden: A Vietnam-era Huey helicopter is mounted overhead in this garden. It also has the only replica of the Camp Holloway Wall that was once located in Pleiku, South Vietnam.
The Vietnam Memorial Garden: Here you will find a half-scale replica of the Vietnam Memorial in Washington, D.C. It is kept up to date and you can locate names at a computer kiosk nearby.
The Reflection Garden: This garden flies the flag of all six countries who fought in the Vietnam War as allies.
The Semper Fi Garden: A tribute to the Marines, their flag flies here, and visitors are encouraged to step onboard the AMTRAC combat vehicle used exclusively during Vietnam.
The Navy Garden: The Navy Garden is the newest in the collection, for now, and honors the veterans who served in this branch of the military. There are plans in the works for both the Air Force and Coast Guard gardens.
A small collection of military vehicles from the era is also parked on the greens for viewing.
A new facility, which looks like a huge upgrade, is currently under construction and plans to open this year. Click here for more information or to donate to their capital campaign.
The Basics
The National Vietnam War Museum
12685 Mineral Wells Highway
Weatherford, Texas 76068
Daily: 9:00 am to 1:00 pm
Tuesday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm
No Entry Fee, Donations Accepted
Tips for Visitors
The 20-mile hike/bike/equestrian Lake Mineral Wells State Park Trailway is accessible from the National Vietnam War Museum.
Beautiful Mineral Wells State Park is nearby, and worth a visit, or a stay.
Clark Gardens, another great stop, is just a few minutes away.
Additional Resources
Children’s Book: What Was the Vietnam War by Jim O’Connor
