Here you’ll discover the remains of an iconic hotel and hot springs destination from years past, as well as one of the largest Confederate prisoner of war camps west of Mississippi River.
Few Texans will ever forget the Alamo. It stands as a historic landmark that symbolizes freedom struggle in Texas.
The Alamo
The Alamo is an iconic landmark in San Antonio that honors the 1836 battle in which a small band of Texans successfully defended a mission and fortress from Mexican troops, earning them independence for Texas and bringing visitors from all around the globe. Today it serves as a monument to Texas freedom and welcomes tourists worldwide.
This battle marked an important turning point in Texas history, galvanising most of the state to fight Mexico and General Santa Anna and eventually leading to Sam Houston’s success at San Jacinto a few months later.
People of all walks of life visit to learn more about its fascinating, yet tragic, past. However, many myths surrounding the Alamo still linger; these have become part of Texas conservatism; for instance ignoring that many heroes such as Davy Crockett were slaveholders or traders themselves.
Casa Navarro State Historic Site
Jose Antonio Navarro’s home – one of two native-born Tejanos to sign the Texas Declaration of Independence–is an historic treasure located in downtown San Antonio. Navarro often referred to his adobe and limestone complex containing his home, freestanding kitchen building and two-story mercantile structure as “Navarro’s Little White House.”
He played an essential role in Texas’ transition from Spanish territory to statehood, serving in numerous legislatures and assemblies as a legislator and helping write legislation for Texas as it became independent from Spain. Additionally, he signed the Texas Constitution and helped form new state legislation.
Recently, Casa Navarro was recognized with the distinction of becoming a National Historic Landmark; an honor that recognizes places that illustrate or interpret United States history in an exceptional manner. This accolade was bestowed by Secretary of the Interior Sally Jewell; hopefully this recognition will draw more attention to this historic gem that often gets overshadowed by more iconic landmarks.
The Tower of the Americas
The Tower of the Americas was originally constructed for HemisFair ’68, an official World’s Fair that took place in 1968. Today it remains as an iconic feature in San Antonio and a favorite attraction among both natives and tourists. Visitors can ascend its observation deck for breathtaking city views and learn about its rich history; also included within is Flags Over Texas interactive exhibit and 4D theater ride.
Casa Navarro State Historic Site offers visitors a glimpse into Texas life during the mid-19th century, giving visitors the chance to tour a home belonging to a Tejano rancher, merchant, and advocate for indigenous rights.
This historic district is filled with Greek Revival, Italianate and Victorian homes that reveal San Antonio’s rich cultural history. Once home to Coahuiltecan villagers, today this neighborhood hosts events and attractions celebrating its past; you may even walk the Maverick Carter House which once belonged to one of its signers of the Texas Declaration of Independence!
The Majestic Theatre
From its inaugural day as an escape from summer heat to its current role as a world-class entertainment venue, The Majestic has witnessed significant milestones and traditions over its 87 year existence. Click through our gallery above to see some quirky anecdotes and discover some fascinating aspects of its long history!
At its peak as a vaudeville house, The Majestic Theatre featured performances that typically lasted five to ten minutes long and hosted traveling shows featuring stars such as Al Jolson and W.C. Fields.
Charles Chanin bought both Majestic and Empire Theatres in 1927 to form a three-theater complex alongside Royale and Theatre Masque, allowing producers to switch shows between venues depending on ticket sales. Today, an old tradition sees one bulb lighting up each night after curtain fall in Majestic Theatre’s 2,300 seat auditorium to welcome guests while scaring away ghosts.
