The Alamo is located in San Antonio, Texas, United States, at 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205. This historic mission and fortress, established in the early 18th century, is situated in the city’s downtown area along the San Antonio River. The site is part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and is owned by the State of Texas. It is open to the public as a memorial and museum, offering insight into its role in Texas history. The precise location places it near other cultural attractions, making it a central landmark for visitors exploring the region’s heritage.
Address and Site Location
Exact address and access points
The Alamo’s official street address is 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205. It sits in the Alamo Plaza Historic District, roughly 1.5 miles west of the San Antonio River Walk. Visitors can reach the site via major roads such as Houston Street and East Commerce Street, with nearby parking garages and public transit options available. The coordinates place it in the central urban core of San Antonio, within walking distance of other historic missions.
Historical Context and Significance
Origins and founding mission
The Alamo was founded as Mission San Antonio de Valero in 1718 by Spanish Franciscans. Originally located a few miles east, it was moved to its present site to establish a presence among the Coahuiltecan people. By the mid-1700s, it had transitioned from a religious mission into a fortified military position. Its evolution reflects the shifting colonial priorities of New Spain on the northern frontier of New Spain. This transformation laid the groundwork for its later role in the Texas Revolution.
Battle of the Alamo and Legacy
1836 siege and remembrance
In 1836, the Alamo became the site of a pivotal 13-day siege during the Texas Revolution, where Texian and Tejano defenders held out against Mexican forces. The battle concluded on March 6, 1836, with the fall of the complex. Despite the loss, the event became a powerful symbol of resistance. Its legacy shaped the narrative of the Texas Revolution and influenced later commemorations across the United States. Today, the site is recognized as a National Historic Landmark and is curated primarily as a memorial.
| Attribute | Verified Detail | Source Type |
|---|---|---|
| Common name | The Alamo | Historical naming |
| Original mission founding | 1718 (as Mission San Antonio de Valero) | Archival records |
| Battle date | February 23 – March 6, 1836 | Historical documentation |
| Current status | Museum and memorial; publicly owned by the State of Texas | Official site and stewardship records |
| Location | 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205 | USPS and site management |
Geographic and Administrative Details
Jurisdiction and site management
The Alamo is owned by the State of Texas and managed by the Texas General Land Office. It forms part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site designation that includes four other missions. Local oversight involves coordination with the City of San Antonio for preservation and tourism. This layered governance reflects its importance as both a historic site and a cultural landmark.
Visitor Information and Planning
Hours, tickets, and nearby amenities
Admission to the Alamo church is free, though extended hours and special access may vary. The complex is open daily, with last entry typically 30–45 minutes before closing. Nearby accommodations include hotels along the River Walk and Market Street, while dining options span casual eateries to fine dining. Public transportation, including bus routes, provides access to the site. For the most current hours and ticketing, visitors are encouraged to check the official website before planning their trip.