The Alamo

Address:San Antonio, Texas

We all know the expression "remember the Alamo"—well now's your chance! The Alamo has been immortalized in American folklore for generations, but do you actually remember what the Alamo is or what you're supposed to remember about it? One visit to this historical site will imprint it permanently on your memory.

The Alamo (Spanish for Cottonwood), in San Antonio, was considered a key Texan defensive position during the Texas revolution against Mexico. The force that stood up to the might of Mexican General Santa Anna was led by Lieutenant Colonel William Barret Travis and included such legendary fighters as Tennessee frontiersman Davy Crockett. It numbered at its peak some 200 fighters ready to stand up against the force of the Mexican army. Unwilling to give in, the brave, little brigade continued to fight until they were completely overwhelmed by the sheer might of the Mexican army. Less than two months later, Santa Anna himself was taken prisoner by Sam Houston at the battle of San Jacinto, where Texan forces crushed the General's much larger Mexican force with the battle cry of "remember the Alamo" driving them on to victory. This battle has come to symbolize the dogged heroism of men willing to battle for their country against impossible odds. Today, tours of the battlefield are available on site. Visitors can tour the battlefield and learn about Texas' fight for independence and specifically about this most heroic battle. There's also a great gift shop.

The Alamo is located at 300 Alamo Plaza at Crockett, northwest of the Riverwalk Mall. Take the 281/37 Freeway and exit either at Commerce or Huston—both will bring you to Alamo Plaza. Once you've been here, you too will remember the Alamo.