A guide to some of the most popular historical sites in San Antonio.
One place to start your journey through San Antonio's historical sites is The Mission Trail. This trail starts at the Mission National Historical Park and takes you on a tour of some the earliest missions in Texas. Along the trail you will see, Mission Concepcion, this mission represents some of the most well preserved architecture from the 18th century. A trip through the history of San Antonio's missions wouldn't be complete without a tour of the city's most famous landmark, The Alamo.
The Alamo, one of the most famous landmarks in Texas, has deep historical significance for San Antonio and Texans alike. Built in the early 1700s, this mission was the place of a historic battle between Santa Anna's army and an army of Texans defending the site. The most memorable part of the battle was when 18 Texans withheld the assault for 13 days against Santa Anna's men. Unable to stand against the overwhelming odds, the Texan defense of the Alamo succumbed to the Mexican army in March of 1863. The Alamo has become a symbol of courage and one of the most widely recognized historical landmarks in all of Texas. The present day Alamo is a popular tourist attraction that includes many artifacts and relics representing San Antonio's past.
While visiting San Antonio, it is hard to miss the Mexican influence that helped shape the city over the years. La Villita is a classic example of early life in San Antonio. This small community is the first neighborhood in the San Antonio area. Visitors to La Villita will find some of the earliest Texas architecture in the state, including original adobe buildings and storefronts.
The Governor's Palace is another example of early Texas architecture and life in the 1700s. The palace, originally built in 1722 housed many military commanders and governors when Texas was a Spanish province. The palace includes a ballroom and extensive gardens highlighting many antiques of its time.
The best place to discover the history of San Antonio is in one of its many museums. The Witte Museum has numerous examples of life in Texas before and after it became a U.S. state. The museum, opened in 1926, displays the early days of San Antonio via permanent displays as well as many original homes from all over San Antonio that have been transported and carefully preserved. Many of the exhibits at the Witte Museum are interactive, including a children's science station.
The San Antonio Museum of Art is a place to enjoy art from Texas and around the world. Opened to the public in 1981, this museum displays some of the finest art exhibitions of our day. Exhibits change throughout the year and include live performances by local artisans.
A trip to the museum does not often conjure up images of a saloon, but that is exactly what you will find at San Antonio's Buckhorn Saloon. The saloon, built in 1881 was open for business as a local saloon and quickly became a local landmark. It was a frequent stop for many famous visitors to San Antonio, including Theodore Roosevelt and Will Rogers. During the prohibition days of the 1920s, the Buckhorn Saloon became a museum highlighting cowboy memorabilia and local historical artifacts.
San Antonio has some of the most widely recognized attractions in Texas. The city has a history rich in cultural heritage and steeped in local legend. From the famous Alamo to the Buckhorn Saloon, San Antonio has something to offer for everyone.
