Houston's Hidden Gem: San Jacinto Monument 🏛️🌾

San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site 🛡️ Standing 15 feet taller than the Washington Monument, 📸this is the tallest monument in the United States and the highest stone monument in the world, yet it stands majestically amidst a remote landscape of wild fields and chemical plants. 🏙️ The grandeur of the architecture contrasts sharply with the desolate surroundings, evoking an atmosphere reminiscent of an ancient battlefield. 🏞️🏭 🛡️Construction of the monument began in 1936, marking the centennial of Texas' independence, to commemorate the Battle of San Jacinto. This pivotal battle, lasting just 18 minutes, determined Texas' fate as an independent state from Mexico. ⏳🗡️ Admission is $14, with no student discounts (though senior and child tickets are available), and includes access to both the museum and the observation deck. 🌴🗺️ 🏛️🌾The museum showcases historical artifacts from Houston's past, including weapons and other relics from the battlefield. The observation deck, however, is somewhat underwhelming due to the barren surroundings, making the ascent somewhat unnecessary. ⏳ The space is limited, the glass is thick, and using their telescope requires an additional fee. 🔭🎟️ Yet, there's one perk: you can capture a stunning photo of the Houston Port and downtown Houston in one frame. 🌴🗺️he juxtaposition of the heavy industrial base and the skyscrapers creates a fascinating sight. Visually, it's akin to a P3 filter effect, and bringing a telephoto lens camera will undoubtedly yield even more impressive shots. 📸🏙️ Nearby, the Lynchburg Ferry offers a free ride—the shortest and smallest ferry I've ever been on, 🌴🌴carrying fewer than ten vehicles per trip and reaching the opposite shore in about five minutes. After crossing, you can quickly reach I-10 and perhaps fill up with (possibly freshly refined) Shell gasoline nearby, known for its powerful performance. ⛴️⛽ #Houston #USATravel #HoustonDayTrips 🌴🗺️