Why Visit the Alamo?
The Alamo may be the most well-known piece of Texas history. Walk the hallowed grounds and learn the stories of the men, women, and children who have contributed to the legend and legacy of this iconic place.
A Great Field Trip for These Topics:
- Spanish Missions
- Texas Revolution
- Texas History
What Can You Expect to See & Do at the Alamo?
When you picture the Alamo you probably think of that well-known bell-shaped facade adorning the front of the building. That is the front of the Alamo church and is only part of the grounds to be explored. Let’s go over the main areas of interest.
Alamo Plaza
First up is Alamo Plaza. This is where the welcome center, canon exhibits, and cenotaph are located. You do not need a ticket for this area.
Begin at the welcome center where you will pick up a free timed entry pass. Or for a small fee, you can opt for an audio tour or guided tour. You can also reserve your tickets online here if you’d prefer.
Alamo Church
This is where you’ll go for your time entry. The Alamo was originally a Spanish mission but is mostly known today for the part it played in the Texas Revolution. The church is treated as a shrine and there is no photography allowed. Exhibits are stationed throughout for you to learn about the building, people, and events. Alamo defenders hailed from many different parts of the young US, and flags are lined up inside the church to represent their home states.
Long Barracks
The long barracks are the oldest structure on the grounds. They originally served as missionary quarters and offices during the 1700s. They now house exhibits and artifacts.
Courtyards & Gardens
Stroll through the beautifully landscaped courtyards and gardens.
The Calvary Courtyard has 6 bronze statues, part of a 14 statue sculpture trail spanning from the Alamo to the Briscoe Western Art Museum.
Adjacent to Calvary Courtyard is the Wall of History detailing 300 years of Alamo events.
Another must-see is the acequia (irrigation canal.) It has been restored and now serves as home to the Alamo’s resident Koi fish.
Along with many places to rest and reflect, the gardens also feature a relaxing fountain. The fountain is located next to the shaded walkway where you can view original cannons used during the Battle of the Alamo.
Living History Encampment
Visit with an Alamo historian to learn about daily life, artillery, and medicine during the time of the Texas Revolution.
Exhibit Hall (This area requires the purchase of an audio tour.)
The Spanish originally built the Alamo (then called Mission San Antonio de Valero) in the early 1700s. It has since been used as a military outpost for Spain, Mexico, Texas, the United States, and the Confederate States, as well as a storage warehouse, museum, and general store. Stop here to see exclusive artifacts throughout the 300 years of Alamo history.
Movie on the Patio
Make sure you see the 17-minute film shown continuously throughout the day. It is located under a very nice open-air covered patio.
Gift Shop
Before you leave, you’ll want to check out the gift shop. It is well above average, offering the typical t shirts, hats, and refrigerator magnets, but also some truly unique (and tasty) items.
The Palisade
The palisade is the newest addition. It is a (partial) reconstruction of the type of fencing that would have been in place during the Battle of the Alamo. A replica cannon is included in the display.
Tips for Visitors:
Reverence is expected in the church, and they ask that visitors remove their hats when entering.
Musket firing demonstrations are held in the plaza twice (11:30am, 2:00 pm) daily on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays.
The Alamo does not have a designated parking lot, but there are several nearby. It is within walking distance of the very popular Riverwalk & River Center Mall.
More Field Trips in San Antonio:
Additional Educational Resources for The Alamo:
There is no shortage of books, toys, and media available about the Alamo. Here are a few of our favorites:
- Voices of The Alamo by Sherry Garland
- Remember the Alamo: Texians, Tejanos, and Mexicans Tell Their Stories by Paul Walker
- Puzzled 3D Puzzle The Alamo Wood Craft Construction Model Kit
