Remember the Alamo?

On our way back through Texas, we had a chance to stop in San Antonio, to see the Alamo. Or so we thought. Not only did we get to "experience" the Alamo, we had an opportunity to see one of the coolest urban downtowns ever.

After we found a place to park, we walked down to the street from our parking garage to look at the map and directions on a street corner. But down from the street corner, we noticed waterfalls, tropical flora, and people bustling around below us. It was the riverwalk, the famous San Antonio Riverwalk, and we were amazed at how beautiful and fun it looked. We decided to find the Alamo later, and followed the sights and sounds of the water below us. It was perfect weather, sunny and warm, but not too hot. We treated ourselves to Haagen-Daaz, and just relaxed for a bit. Why couldn't we live close to something like this, we wondered?

There were strolling mariachis, riverside cafes galore, shops, boutiques, and even little boat rides the went up and down the river. We didn't want to leave! But we knew that the Alamo wouldn't be open all day, and it was almost 5pm, so we decided to find our way there.

Luckily, it wasn't very far away at all. It stood majestic in the middle of a downtown urban jungle, not quite what we were expecting! It almost reminded me of Europe, seeing all of their old buildings in between the modern and new ones. It seemed to be holding up well.

We had less than half an hour before it closed, but as the experience was free, we went ahead and saw everything we could in that little window of time. But it must have been spring break in Texas, because it was very busy with families and children on a Monday afternoon.

Although the Republic of Texas only lasted a short time, people there seem to be very proud of their state. It was interesting to read about the history of the place, the famous battle, and how early last century, the Alamo was actually used as materials warehouse before it was declared a museum and heritage site.

Overall, Janelle and I were very impressed with San Antonio. Not only do they have a great downtown area, warm weather, and close proximity to the beach, but housing costs are very low!!! We even stopped by a new housing developement in the area and found a very cute house in a great new neighborhood for an amazing price. Now if only we had friends or family down there!