San Antonio, Texas, Where the Past Meets the Present

Texas abounds with the beginnings of many famous, as well as infamous, sites. From the Alamo to Six Flags, San Antonio will offer a weekend that will thrill anyone.

The Mision San Antonio de Valero, the Alamo, a symbol of the ultimate sacrifice that men have made for freedom, was built in 1724 as a home for missionaries and their Indian converts. On February 23,1836 the siege on the Alamo began, 13 days later on March 6, 1836 the Alamo fell to Santa Anna's army. The remains of the Alamo exceed over four acres consisting of the old church, Alamo Gardens, the Wall of History, the Long Barrack Museum and many other sites hidden by modern, urban landscaping. Among these sites include the outline of the interior wall in Alamo Plaza, a plaque marking the spot where the Low Barrack stood, paving stones marking the spot where the Palisade stood and some original foundation stones that can be found near the stairway leading to Paseo del Rio. A moving experience can be had by visiting the Alamo, admission is free.

While taking a walk through history, be sure to visit La Villita, San Fernando Cathedral, Market Square, Jose Antonio Navarro State Historical Park, the Spanish Governors Palace, the Steves Homestead as well as the other missions from San Antonio's beginnings.

San Antonio offers many areas for kids to enjoy and burn off excess energy. Some of these places include the San Antonio Children's Museum, HemisFair Park, Tower of the Americas, the San Antonio Zoo, Seaworld and, course Six Flags Fiesta Texas. If a short trip is not a problem, be sure to visit Schlitterbahn, the World's Best Waterpark.

Fiesta Texas, as it was known, was built in March 1992 in an old rock quarry known as "La Cantera". It was bought by Premier Parks, now known as Six Flags, in 1998 and was enhanced to new standards. With seven roller coasters, a newly renovated waterpark, music shows and many other thrill rides, there will be something to please the most avid thrill seeker. Conclude the evening relaxing and watching the fireworks and laser show before heading back to the hotel or home.

Art enthusiasts will want to visit the McNay Art Museum or the San Antonio Museum of Art while those interested in the arts will want to visit the Guadalupe Arts Center, Carver Community Cultural Center or the Majestic Theater. Golfers will enjoy La Cantera Golf Club, voted the best new public course in the United States by the Golf Digest in 1995.

There is something for everyone in San Antonio, Texas, be sure to visit and discover the history as well as the many other activities and events the city has to offer.