Louis Tussaud's Plaza Wax Museum, San Antonio

Located on Alamo Plaza, directly across from the iconic Alamo in downtown San Antonio, Louis Tussaud's Plaza Wax Museum is a unique attraction that offers visitors an immersive experience with lifelike wax figures. Part of the Ripley Entertainment family, the museum is paired with the Ripley's Believe It or Not! Odditorium, making it a double dose of entertainment and intrigue.

The museum's origins trace back to February 1, 1987, when it opened as the Plaza Theatre of Wax. Initially, it showcased figures imported from Orlando's 'Stars Hall of Fame' and later enhanced its collection with original sculptures by artist Peter Carsillo. The exhibits are set against imaginative backdrops designed by Drew Edward Hunter, famously known as "Dr. Blood." In 2000, Ripley Entertainment acquired the attraction, rebranding it as Louis Tussaud's WaxWorks and giving it a modern twist.

Named after Louis Joseph Kenny Tussaud, the great-grandson of Madame Tussaud, the museum has a legacy rooted in wax artistry. Louis, who worked at Madame Tussaud's London museum before branching out on his own, brought his family's craft to new audiences, though the San Antonio museum maintains no formal connection to the famed Madame Tussauds brand.

The museum features over 200 wax figures, encompassing a diverse range of themes. Visitors can marvel at Hollywood icons like Jack Nicholson and Harrison Ford, historical figures, religious icons such as Jesus Christ, and even beloved characters from fairy tales. A standout feature is the 66-foot hand-painted mural, which vividly portrays key events and oddities from the last century, adding a layer of artistic storytelling to the experience.

Whether you're snapping selfies with Hollywood legends or exploring the fascinating and sometimes eerie displays, Louis Tussaud's WaxWorks offers a whimsical and entertaining start to your San Antonio adventure.