As we approach the Tricentennial of San Antonio, the Alamo becomes an even more important resource in the study of Texas history. After all, the date which has become known as San Antonio’s birthday is actually the founding of Mission San Antonio de Valero, May 1, 1718.
Whether you are studying the Spanish Mission period, the Mexican Federalist Republic or the Texas Revolution, the Alamo is the place for students to learn more. But, an Alamo Field Trip should be more than just walking through old buildings and a visit to the gift shop. Please use this guide to plan a meaningful, educational trip to the Alamo for your students. Remember, we are here to support all educators.
There are many ways to get more from your visit. Use the following guide to plan your trip.
Admission to the Alamo is free! This means that outside of your transportation expenses, there is no need to spend a dime on an Alamo Field Trip. We do have some tours and other experiences available should you want to take advantage of them, but this is your choice. You can find out more about these experiences below.
STEP 1: Make a Reservation
Please call the Alamo at least two weeks prior to your scheduled trip. This will ensure that adequate staff is on hand to assist you. Our Volunteer/Visitor Coordinator, Lauren Strack, will assist you in scheduling your visit. Please be prepared to provide the name of your school; number of students; and the date of your visit. Contact Lauren at (210) 225–1391 ext. 124 or lstrack@thealamo.org
STEP 2: Arrival
Check in with an Alamo staff member upon arrival. You will find one of our history interpreters, wearing a red shirt, in front of the Shrine (church). Let them know: the name of your group and what tours/talks you have registered for, if any. This Alamo representative can let you know the time of history talks, information on special events happening that day or where to meet your guide, if you have scheduled a tour.
What Can My Students Experience at the Alamo?
The following activities are free and are available on a limited, first-come, first-serve basis.
A) History Talk
Several times throughout the day, a history talk by an Alamo History Interpreter is given in Cavalry Courtyard. These talks are approximately 15–20 minutes long and are followed by a 10 minute question and answer period. Cavalry Courtyard can hold a maximum of 150 students sitting on the benches and on the ground. These talks can be reserved for groups. Otherwise, talks are offered on a first come, first serve basis.
B) Orientation Film
Located in the Long Barrack Museum, The Alamo Orientation film provides a short synopsis of the history of The Alamo. The film runs throughout the day and lasts approximately 20 minutes. Seating is limited (40 max), so we suggest you arrive early.
These activities have a fee and must be scheduled prior to arrival.
C) Alamo Battlefield Tour
The Alamo Battlefield tour is a one hour guided tour. An Alamo History Interpreter will guide you around the perimeter of the original Alamo Fort. Visit the southwest corner where Colonel Travis fired the 18 pound cannon! Stand where Jim Bowie was killed by Mexican soldiers! $12 per student.
D) Alamo Audio Tour
The Alamo Audio Tour is a 45 minute audio production featuring sound effects, music and interviews with the Alamo Historian and Curator, Dr. Bruce Winders and other Alamo staff members. The audio tour is available for rental seven days a week from 9:00am through 4:30pm. $5 per student.
E) Art in History Art Project
Art in History Projects offer a hands-on experience using historic replicas of art that students decorate to reflect the time period and the culture from which it originated. These art projects can be integrated into your trip to the Alamo. The projects take about 1 hour to complete and can be arranged for groups between 20 and 100 students. $20 per student.
- Art in History’s Alamo Chocolate Pot replica is an example of an “Alamo” pot that dates from early 19th century. It explores the Texas Revolution and its historic origins from 1803–1845.
- Art in History’s Mission San Antonio de Valero fresco tile is a replica of the fresco paintings that can been found in the sacristy of the old mission church.
F) Living History Presentations
Alamo staff members present “Life in 1830s-40s Texas”. Dressed in period clothing, subject matter experts interact with your class in the Alamo Amphitheater. Topics include: weaponry, food, textiles, medicine, and more. A 30–45 minute presentation can be reserved for your group making your trip to the Alamo very special. $100 for 30–45 minutes.
STEP 3: Planning your trip
When making travel arrangements take into account downtown traffic and parking. The busiest season for school visits is March-May. Choosing to visit during other months of the year may make your experience a better one.
Buses may unload their passengers at the Houston Street gate or the Crockett Street gate, however, buses are not allowed to park in these areas. City parking is available and can be found at this link: http://www.sanantonio.gov/CCDO/parking/bus.aspx . Parking Lot A at the Alamodome is free to buses when there is not an event. Please call Dome Security at (210) 207–3680 to make a reservation.
The Alamo is located at 300 Alamo Plaza in downtown San Antonio, Texas. To reach the Alamo from U.S. 281/Interstate 37 southbound, exit at Houston Street, turn right, and proceed three blocks to Avenue E, turn left and continue to the intersection of Houston and Alamo Plaza.
From Interstate 37 northbound, exit at Commerce Street, turn left on Commerce and proceed ten blocks to Alamo Plaza, turn right and continue on one and one half blocks. Parking is available at several pay lots in the vicinity of the Alamo.
STEP 4: Lunch
Groups may eat lunch in the Alamo Arbor area or Alamo Hall Patio when not in use. Please note that lunch space is limited and no tables are provided. Groups are responsible for their own ice chests, lunch bags, etc. Please do not pull or carry large ice chests through the buildings.
