So you all ‘Remember the Alamo’ right? No? Of course you do if you are a Native Texan…hello 4th grade social studies? If not, here’s the short version: The Alamo is a Spanish Mission built in what is now San Antonio, Texas. In March of 1836, a small group of Texans defended the Alamo against Mexico and were defeated. Because of this loss, Texans came together and won their independence against Mexico a month later under the leadership of Sam Houston. 175 years ago to be exact……
And did you know that Texas has had 6 different sovereignties leading us? No? Let me name them for ya: Spain, France, Mexico, Confederate States of America, Republic of Texas, and the United States of America.
The Alamo is Texas’ most famous shrine. It is a shock of history standing tall amongst the modern buildings in downtown San Antonio. But it is a beloved site and one that takes you right back into history.
The complex offers the mission, a museum filled with artifacts from the battle, and a gift shop where you can grab your very own Davy Crockett coonskin hat.
The Alamo has been owned by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT) since 1906, and they offer a free admission to the 4.2 acre complex.
The Alamo website offers some great fun – like a History Hunt and games for kids – to enhance their experience.
Many times, you can find re-enactments occurring on the plaza outside the Alamo. It’s fun to show the kids how much work goes into shooting a rifle during that time period. Click here to see the Alamo calendar of events.
If the history is too much for you, there is always a Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum right across the street!
And a great addition to your visit to the Alamo, take in the IMAX’s Alamo The Price of Freedom – it’s a great movie telling the story of the Alamo on the big screen. My kids loved it!
Texas Travel Facts on the Alamo:
Location: 300 Alamo Plaza (downtown San Antonio)
Hours: Mon-Sat (9 am -5:30 pm) Sun (10 am – 5:30 pm) During June, July & August, it remains open until 7 pm.
Admission: Free
Recommended Time: 1-2 hours
Good to know: All ages welcome, weekends tend to be busier, strollers are fine
Website: http://www.thealamo.org/
I’ve been to San Antonio twice and both times went past the Alamo, but never really stopped in.
I have never been to Texas, let alone seeing the Alamo, but it is definitely on my bucket list.
What I find amusing and disheartening at the same time is that in such a historical location, there is so much commercialization going on all around it. I guess that is typical for our society, but you would think there would be some Architectural standards to encourage preservation, rather than a Ripley’s.
I love the Alamo and the other Missions down there. I don’t like the long line you wait in to get in or that you can’t take pictures inside.
Is it just me or do those flowers in front look like the form yoda’s head?
I so wanna see that.
I’ve always wanted to see the Alamo – now even more! 🙂
Madonna Still Rocks, M.I.A. Steals the Headlines, and Another Stray Cat
Needless to say they don’t teach the history of the Alamo up here in Canada, but I can’t imagine going to Texas and not seeing the Alamo. It’s definitely on the list.
I have NEVER been to the alamo. Isn’t that sad? I lived in Texas. But I’m not gonna lie. I didn’t know too much about it until I was a Texan.
Great pics!
And it’s free? Shut up!
Thanks for linking up with us! xoxo
Babe and I were there several years ago on a business trip and we loved it, what a beautiful city!
Thanks for linking up with us freind!