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Visiting San Antonio, Texas, you can’t miss going to the Alamo. If you do, everyone will wonder what you did instead and you’ll be left questioning whether you should have just gone! My first impression was that it was so small – I was expecting a big fort. I soon learned that it was much more than that. Most importantly, it is FREE to visit, a part of US history and a must-see. After all, how many places will you visit that have their own battle cry?
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What is the Alamo?
Any student of American history will tell you that the Alamo was a fort. But in reality, it was a mission in this area (you may also want to visit the other Missions while you’re here!). With battle cries like “Remember the Alamo!” and “Come and Take It!” the Alamo represents the spirit of some of the earliest Americans. But that battle didn’t take place until February 23rd to March 6th, 1836. During the Battle of the Alamo, the Americans held out during an assault by Mexican troops under General Santa Anna. This is where Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie met their death.
Founded in the 18th century, the Alamo de Valero was a Roman Catholic mission which was to convert the local Indians. It eventually became a fortress compound. The Alamo served as a central location for farming. The Alamo is one of five missions in San Antonio which are recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage site.
What you’ll see.
The building you see in all the photos was the mission’s church. The long barrack is the oldest building in town and can also be visited. In the last ten years, these historical display boards have been added that help you understand what happened here throughout the last three centuries.
The grounds themselves are beautiful. Walking around, you’ll see a tent recreation of what it must have been like to stay inside the Alamo when it was used as a fort.
How to get here.
The Alamo is a short walk away from the River Walk. If you’re staying at the Marriott Rivercenter, it is about a block and a half away. If you’re staying further away, there are plenty of parking garages nearby, or take the Viva bus – the three tourist lines all stop at the Alamo. There are plenty of parking lots nearby, but you’ll be paying quite a bit of money to parking meters.
Know Before You Go:
- Entrance is free – donations are appreciated.
- It gets really crowded on weekends. If possible, visit during the week or early in the morning.
- Texas is HOT ya’ll! If you have the option, visit in the fall or spring.
- You can walk on your own or take a tour – $7 for self-guided or $15 for an hour tour.
- Photos of the iconic church without anyone in front of it are rare! Wake up early!
- Check the park schedule for live reenactments.
Wondering what else to do while you’re in San Antonio? Take a look at these 10 Things To Do in San Antonio.
You can find out more officials details on their website.
Happy travels!
Annick, The Common Traveler
I love places with an interesting history and Alamo sure looks like one. I heard some things about it before but I learned so many things from your post. I would definitely want to visit one day.
I never heard of Alamo and its history related to war. But thanks to your blog for introducing with important historical place of US. Alamo though a small fortress but has many stories like it was used as a mission by Roman Catholics for converting local Indians. It is good that entrance is free and great tip on waking up early to get good photographs.
Very interesting article. It reminds me one park in Poland, but the entrance was not free. I would definitely be interested in visiting this, as it’s not only a peaceful place but also historical.
I love San Antonio! I went almost ten years ago and love the river walk. I totally agree on not staying on the river walk – it gets quite busy and loud! Such a unique perspective of SA!
These are good to know things. I was aware that Alamo was a fort but nothing else other than that.
Glad to know there are tours available. I am not really fond of taking my own tour without a guide since I always look forward to their stories.
The Alamo always reminds me of Pee Wee Herman’s Big Adventure! I actually used to live in San Antonio for a few years and I was also shocked the first time I saw the Alamo at how small it was. And everyone who visited with us was too. But even with that, you’re right, it’s a really interesting place with such a crazy bit of history.
Very interesting! I would definitely be interested in visiting this, and especially my husband who loves all the historical places. Is it also part of national parks system? I have still not made to Texas but we have been talking about visiting for a while now.
Sometimes we are able to appreciate the beauty of a place after we know the history behind it. I am really fascinated by the battle-cry of Alamo. Will be in my bucketlist
I have travelled the east coast extensively and look to cover the west cost in the next year or so and this will be a place I would like to add on my list. Interesting to know that this is not fort but a place built for a mission in this area. Would love to take a walk in the lovely grounds as well. thanks for sharing
I’ve heard of the Alamo in films, but never understood what it was, until now! It’s great that it’s free, and I’ll take your advice and visit during the week instead. I’ve never been to Texas when in the US, but do know it gets very hot there!
I love places with such an interesting history and beautiful sights. It looks like a peaceful spot on Earth.