Beyond the Alamo: A Locals Guide to San Antonio Sights

Every tourist in San Antonio knows about the Alamo-after all, we proudly proclaim ourselves the Alamo City. But by venturing just a little off the beaten path, you can see the true heart of the city, beyond the remains of that old presidio, and beyond the tourist-clogged banks of the River Walk.

Missions, Churches, and History

While the Alamo is the best-known of the city's missions, there is very little of it still standing. Far better to go south of downtown a bit, along Roosevelt Avenue, and pay a visit to Mission San Jose. This grandest of the five missions in San Antonio, San Jose is nearly intact. In fact, the church on the grounds is still active. The visitors' center shows a film on the history of Texas's colonization by the Spanish, and there is also a museum, but don't hesitate to walk the grounds yourself. In addition to the church, you will be able to see the old barracks where the Indians lived-at one time, the mission supported 300 people-and the famous Rose Window of the church, which may or may not have a heartbreaking story behind it. Admission is free, and the park is closed only three days a year.

Located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, not too far from Market Square, is the Spanish Governor's Palace. Though not an actual palace, it is a vital piece of the city's history, having once been the headquarters of the presidio's captain. It is also the only remaining example of an 18^th-century Spanish aristocratic home in the State. Like many buildings in the city, this one is also haunted. It is said that during renovations a woman's skeleton was found in one of the walls, and it is she who haunts the residence's fountain. Admission is $1.50 for adults and half that for children, and the Palace is closed only on Christmas & New Year's.