One of the most famous landmarks in Texas is undoubtedly the Alamo, and people come here from all over the country and the world to see it! It’s remembered or the sacrifices of brave men who knew what it cost to be free, and they are honored here where they died.
We have visited the Alamo many times, and one can’t help but be inspired by the love given to the Mission by those who work and volunteer here. The grounds are kept impeccable, and I’ve never seen anyone dare to litter here. We love to watch the chattering squirrels and koi fish, but today we met a very special animal at the Alamo!
As I was waiting for my son to go to the restroom, I felt a brush against my leg! Bella the Alamo Cat had found me! A beautiful calico, she’s loves attention and was happy to say hello, if a little reluctant to pose for many pictures! She preferred to be pet!
One of the groundskeepers saw us, and came over to tell me all about her. Bella came from the Presidio la Bahia in Goliad, another important site in the Texas Fight for Independence, where she was found as a kitten.
She’s such a star that she even has her own Twitter account!
She soon saw other visitors, and headed over to say hello to some of the kids. She’s very friendly!
Bella is much loved, as have been the other cats that have lived and served at the Alamo. A headstone marks where they were buried. C.C., the most well-known of the Alamo Cats, reigned for 18 years.
The grounds of the Alamo are incredible. We said goodbye to Bella, who was happily purring under a tree, and went to explore a little more.
The Alamo was originally built by the Spanish as a church and mission to convert the Native Americans to Christianity. It was built near the San Antonio River, a source of water, which is now re-channeled for the San Antonio Riverwalk.
They were having a Living History Exhibition, and we enjoyed watching it and asking questions.
Admission to the Alamo is FREE. There is a self-guided audio tour for $7, and a $15 guided tour, which is really great with older kids!
They also have daily Living History demonstrations and History Talks offered several times during the day.
Downtown San Antonio has built up around the Alamo, and it is truly the heart of the 7th largest city in the U.S.
Know Before You Go
There is paid Downtown Parking with a short walk to the Alamo. Expect to pay $10-$20 to park.
Photography is not allowed inside the buildings.
Food and drinks are not allowed inside the buildings. See below for nearby restaurants.
Things to do in San Antonio
Play
Learn a little more about the Alamo during the movie, Battle for Texas, playing across the street at the Rivercenter Mall! Click HERE for more information.
A visit to the Japanese Tea Gardens is a must! Click HERE to read more!
Don’t miss the fun during at Sister Grimm’s Ghost Tour of San Antonio! Click HERE for more information.
Eat
For a more upscale dining experience, the 1718 Steak House, across from the Alamo, can’t be beat! Click HERE to visit their website.
The Bier Garten is also just steps away from the Alamo, and has fun German food, beer and live music! Click HERE see their menu.
Moses Rose’s Hideout! Named for the Alamo Deserter Louis (Moses) Rose who refused to cross Travis’ line in the sand, this funky restaurant is fun, delicious and a little hilarious! Click HERE for more information.
Stay
The Historic Menger Hotel is the oldest continually operating hotel West of the Mississippi River, and it’s absolutely beautiful! Click HERE to read more.
The Alamo
300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio
Click HERE to visit their website.
Keep Having Fun in the Texas Sun!
Michelle
Having Fun in the TEXAS Sun is on PINTEREST! Use it as a quick resource to find activities in different Texas towns! Click HERE!
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