Just a few miles south of downtown San Antonio, you’ll find an impressive trip back to a time when Spain ruled over the land we now call Texas. Missions were established here in the early 1700s, mainly for the purpose of converting American Indians living in the area to Catholicism and the Spanish way of life. This park does a great job of bringing the past back to life and telling the stories of the people who once lived here.
The rangers are knowledgeable and offer tours and ranger led programs.
A free in-depth audio tour is available through the City of San Antonio World Heritage Office. You can play clips on your mobile device as you tour the grounds.
- QUICK KID TIP: We went with this option and quickly realized an adult attention span was required to be able to listen while there. The kids wanted to explore, not be huddled around my phone. So, we listened to clips for the remaining 3 missions while driving to each. The kids found this a much more favorable option.
There is a gift shop to peruse at Mission San Jose. I believe it is a church gift shop for the still very active San Jose church.
This is also a National Historical Park where kids can earn a Jr. Ranger badge!
The Basics:
- Visitor Center at Mission San José
6701 San Jose Drive
San Antonio, TX 78214 - Visitor Center Hours
- Free Admission
Tips for Visitors:
- The missions are 1 national park with 4 separate sites; Mission San Jose, Mission Concepcion, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. It is approximately 2.5 miles between each mission.
- Drive or use the hike and bike trail that connects the missions. Bike share is available. Click here for more info.
- You can explore the grounds from sunrise to sunset. Facility Hours vary. Mass is held at Mission Cecepcion on Sunday mornings.
- The Alamo was also once a Spanish mission. It is more famously known for the part it played in the Texas Revolution. It is not part of San Antonio Missions National Park, but is definitely a must see while you’re in the area.
Educational Resources:
- San Antonio Missions National Park Jr. Ranger Badge Book
- San Antonio Missions National Park Curriculum Materials
- Sort Video Clip from Studies Weekly
