San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Attractions & Landmark
Colonial Spanish MissionsSan Antonio,
TX, 78210
United States
+1 210 932 1001
+1 210 534 1106
http://www.nps.gov/saan/Overview
The wilderness that is now known as San Antonio and South Texas was primarily settled by Spanish Catholic priests. And apparently priests with exquisite taste in architecture. Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan and Mission Espada, the four historical missions that compose what is known as the Mission Trail, all possess very distinct and beautiful detailing in their designs and constructions. The history behind each is intriguing and far too expansive to even touch upon in this review. As far as attractions go, however, this one is definitely a "must see." Admission is free.Open Hours
Mo to Su from 09:00 AM to 05:00 PMThe thing we liked is you can walk from one to the next,although it is a long walk. It is interesting to see and hear the history and see the areas that are actually the original.
I lived in San Antonio for a year a while ago, and say all 5 missions (Alamo included) numerous times, and took many great photos of these great buildings. You can get professional photographer results with just a 5 dollar Fuji camera, amazing. My suggested favorites to see are Mission Concepcion, with it's original 290 some year old solid Mesquite wood doors and equally ancient wrought iron craft work. Truly beautiful and amazing that such feats of architecture could be accomplished in what was then the wilderness. Imagine. The other best mission in my opinion would have to be the Alamo. There it is, in all it's original and historic majesty, untouched. What's most amazing to me was when I would stand inside the Alamo, against the stone walls and original floor...and imagine the "gringos" that eventually fell there during the seige by Santa Ana. The smoke, the gunfire, the screaming and yelling, the desperation. If those walls could talk...amazing.
Having grown up in San Antonio, I found the missions somewhat boring through high school.Once I moved away, matured and obtained more education I've found myself missing the Alamo and all other missions a lot. I miss the beautifulness and warm atmosphere of the mission and San Antonio itself. Viva San Antonio! Go Spurs Go!! Grace Teniente Wyman St.Augustine, Florida
Visiting the Missions is a must for anyone who is interested in the history of Texas. So often, Texans believe Texas history began with Stephen F. Austin and the subsequent fight for independence from Mexico. The Spanish Missions show very clearly that the history of Texas goes much further back. The churches at each Mission also demonstrate how people will build beautiful sacred spaces no matter what type of materials they have available. The construction of the missions and churches was an incredible feat considering the tools and skills available. To get a good sense of early San Antonio and Central Texas one must absolutely visit the Mission Trail. One important note, Texas is very hot from May through September. To avoid complications from the summer heat, come well prepared with water, sunscreen and hats. Or visit the Missions during the cooler months.
The Mission were one of the main reasons we went to San Antonio and they were well worth it. You can see them all in one day, but San Jose is the best. If you didn't rent a car, you can rent a scooter at very obscure little place called "Delivery Market". If you can find it, make sure you have a full tank of gas before you drive off. They are super fun and a great way to see the Missions. Just make sure you find a good map!
This is an incredible, historic architectural treasure. We didn't get to see the inside of the missions, but it was incredible to just be there, centuries after these majestic structures were built. Highly recommend.
Stumbled onto the Church b accident, it was very pretty and educational. Seemed very holy, I had a hurt leg when I got there.....did not have it when I left. God is present there.
these missions are beautiful! well preserved for their age. very informative. If you like history, you do not want to miss out on a trip to visit them.
Growing up in San Antonio was wonderful. To be able to visit the missions and of course, the Alamo was the best... When you go into the Alamo it is so, so real. TO see the boks, the munintion, the clothes, the flags, it just makes you feel that something very real happened there, The missions still hold that wonderful serene feeling for me.
Both of my grandparents lived around the corner. I grew up in this neighborhood. Both of my g-parents had their memorial services here. I also had to revisit the place during a vacation. It has changed over the years. It's so tranquil.



