The Alamo is perhaps San Antonio's most popular landmark. This historical site sits in the middle of downtown San Antonio and just a short walk from the famous River Walk and the River Walk Mall. The Alamo is the site of the historical Battle of the Alamo, where approximately 200 Republic of Texas soldiers held off about 2,400 Mexican troops. The Texas troops were all killed, but not before killing almost six hundred Mexican soldiers. The rally cry of the Texas Revolution became, "Remember the Alamo!" This rally cry was soon adopted as a source of Texas pride and later American pride.
The Alamo is open for tours throughout the year, except on Christmas day. You can view a variety of artifacts from the battle and San Antonio's early days at exhibits inside the Alamo, in an area today known as the Long Barrack Museum. Some of the items on display are from such Alamo legends as David Bowie, William B. Travis, and Davy Crockett. The museum also boasts a large mural that depicts the history of the Alamo over time, from its construction through to the present. The Alamo also offers a tranquil garden to the rear that is a popular resting point for folks in the city. The garden offers plenty of shade trees, green grass, and benches. You can also find a gift shop, an old church, and a shrine on-site.
With the Alamo's location in the heart of downtown San Antonio, there are a large number of hotels within walking distance. Sitting within a half mile of the Alamo are the Crockett Hotel, the Grand Hyatt San Antonio, the Hampton Inn San Antonio, the Hilton Palacio del Rio, the Holiday Inn Riverwalk, and more.
The Battle of the Alamo has been immortalized in numerous books and Hollywood films, and a trip to San Antonio would not be complete without spending time remembering the Alamo with a tour. Make plans to experience the Alamo while you're in town!