San Antonio, Texas

The Alamo

The most famous spot in Texas, where 189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, after repeated attacks by Mexican General Santa Anna's army. Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo) was established in 1718 as the city'

Mission San Francisco de la Espada

Established 1731, favorite of many students of Spanish period in Texas, and popular with photographers. The little church building, restored several times, is still in use. Ruins of walls that once surrounded the mission compound; foundations of a granary;

Wild Animal Orphanage

Missions of San Antonio

In addition to the Alamo, which is managed by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, four other San Antonio missions form the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. They were established by Franciscan friars in the early 18th century. A map for the "Mission Trail" driving route (

Alamodome

160,000-sq.-ft. building provides facilities for football, concerts, and other events. It is the only domed stadium in North America with two permanent ice sheets. It's home for the annual Alamo Bowl college football game each Dec. Tours conducted every Thursday and Friday. (