During a time when many vacations are not possible, road trip-accessible locations offer the ability to safely social distance. Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite activities and tips for exploring San Antonio, so start here as you plan a safe and responsible vacation.
Ever heard the phrase “Remember the Alamo,” and thought to yourself that it was simply a crazy thing Texans say? Couldn’t possibly have any meaning? Allow me to take a moment to clear that one up and give you a great reason to visit!
During the Texas Revolution in 1836, the Mexican dictator, Santa Anna and his army held the Alamo in San Antonio, Texas under siege for more than a week. On March 6 1836, Santa Anna ordered about 1800 of his troops to attack the Alamo, which was defended by less than 200 men. Because of this loss at the Alamo, Texans came together and won their independence against Mexico a month later under the leadership of Sam Houston.
Today, 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. Learn all about the Alamo’s heroes, including Davy Crockett, Jim Bowie, and Sam Houston. Hear from the survivors of the battle. And see actual artifacts from the week-long siege.
The complex, owned by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas (DRT) since 1906, offers free admission to the 4.2 acre complex which includes the Shrine, the Long Barrack Museum filled with artifacts from the battle, and a gift shop where you can grab your very own Davy Crockett coonskin hat.
Tip: To prepare kids before their visit, 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. If the history is too much for you, there is always a Ripley’s Believe it or Not Museum right across the street!
And as 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! Want to read more Alamo tips? Read an additional Alamo post at RWeThereYetMom!
Closest interstate: Interstate 37/TX, Hwy 281
Cost of admission: Free
Dining: None. The Alamo is located in downtown San Antonio, where many dining options exist!
Where to stay:
San Antonio offers a wide variety of hotel accommodations, all of which must adhere to safety and cleanliness COVID response standards. Hotels in San Antonio which we recommend include La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Riverwalk and The Westin Riverwalk, but as a general guideline, look for a downtown hotel that offers courtyard space and outdoor pools, so you can best enjoy the Texas weather and social distance safely.
Driving directions:
The Alamo is located at 300 Alamo Plaza in downtown San Antonio, Texas. From U.S. 281/Interstate 37 southbound, exit at Houston Street, turn right, and proceed three blocks to Avenue E, turn left and continue to the intersection of Houston and Alamo Plaza. From Interstate 37 northbound, exit at Commerce Street, turn left on Commerce and proceed ten blocks to Alamo Plaza, turn right and continue on one and one half blocks. Parking is available at several pay lots in the vicinity of the Alamo.
Photos courtesy of RWeThereYetMom.com.
As I disclose whenever applicable, we are partnering with Hotels.com to bring you this post on San Antonio and The Alamo.
