FREE ATTRACTION. We started at the mission furthest from San Antonio and worked our way up but it is recommended to go the other way because NPS has maps and information brochures. We also drove our car. If riding a bike I would probably go with a tour, the neighborhoods around the missions seem pretty rough.
This piece of history is truly amazing! I didn’t know we had stuff like this in America! It has been preserved well. I really enjoyed visiting each mission and learning about how they functioned several hundreds of years ago and their purpose for being there.
It’s a shame that the Lady Guadalupe is the prominent figure of worship and prayer here still today, while Jesus is off to the side, and when the Bible tells us Jesus “is at the right hand of God and interceding for us” -Romans 8:34 But if that is what the Spanish Friars brought to this region then it makes sense people would still worship in this way. I hope the locals who come to worship here get a realization of the truth that they can pray to Jesus, during their times of worship or with local believers who can lead them to this understanding. Especially since the neighborhoods around the Missions seem to be...
Read moreThis is an incredible destination that blends history, culture, and convenience for visitors of all ages.
Visitor Center The visitor center is well-designed, providing helpful exhibits, maps, and friendly staff eager to answer questions or suggest a walking route. It’s the perfect starting point to understand the history and significance of the missions.
Facilities Clean and easily accessible restrooms are available, making it comfortable for families and travelers spending the day exploring.
Parking Plenty of parking is available, which is a big plus, especially during busy weekends. It’s convenient for both cars and buses, so large groups or solo adventurers will have no problem finding a spot.
Overall Experience The park’s peaceful atmosphere and well-maintained grounds make it an enjoyable outing. Walking or biking along the Mission Trail is highly recommended for an immersive experience. The blend of historic architecture and scenic surroundings creates unforgettable photo opportunities. It also has a penny pressing machine.
Whether you're a history enthusiast, nature lover, or just looking for a relaxing day out, this is a...
Read moreThe San Antonio Missions were given the status of a World Heritage site on July 5, 2015 by UNESCO. The 4 missions and their surrounding structures are remarkably preserved. The Espada dam and the missions' acequia have been a favorite of mine since I arrived in this beautiful city 21 years ago. (An acequia is a community-operated watercourse used in Spain and former Spanish colonies in the Americas for irrigation.) The Spanish and religious influences, blended with the indigenous people's culture, make for a riveting tour. I RECOMMEND the 20+ minute recorded film in the visitors' center. It plays regularly and is free. It is refreshingly inclusive of the indigenous peoples that lived in the area prior to the Spanish invasion. There are walking tours provided and maps, should you desire to do a tour on your own. The visitor's center has an excellent selection of books and souvenirs. A small museum is attached to one side of the center. The missions and their grounds are a must see for locals and...
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