SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS

     We regretted leaving Padre Island after two weeks, as the weather just kept getting better and better, but we pulled out with the intent to head back to San Antonio.  We had bypassed this stop on the way South from Austin because the weather was rainy and cold, but the sun was now out and we wanted to explore this historical town.  After an overnight stay at the San Antonio Walmart and some minor grocery re-stocking we pulled into the Traveler's RV Park shortly before Noon on January 24th.  The park is located along the San Antonio River and has a walkway down to the 'Riverwalk Trail'.  We hooked up to electric, water, sewer and wi-fi, it seems like such an extravagance after going so long without.  After checking emails, a quick lunch, and studying the San Antonio Visitors Information we were off.

     We headed down to the Riverwalk even though it was somewhat overcast and decided to trek into town via foot.  Along the trail we veered off to the "Mission Trail" and stopped to explore Mission Concepcion.  From this site we intended to follow the Mission Trail, but after walking the streets and neighborhoods along the Mission Trail we opted to return back to the Riverwalk route to enjoy less traffic and the warm sun that had returned.  The walk went by old business areas - some of which have been revitalized, variety of neighborhoods, and eventually we ended up in the downtown area which was very unique.  Shops and eateries are dispersed on or around the walkway and we were glad we decided to take this walk. 

     Our first stop downtown was to see the Alamo.  First impression was that it was a lot smaller than expected.  The 15 minute video is well worth it in order to understand the significance of this place, and the sacrifice of those that fought to their death in order to defend the lands of Texas.  We strolled through the grounds and walked through some of the neighboring streets.  The bus stop was near by so we waited for the #42 and got dropped off right in front of the RV Park.  It was quite a day!

     Our night was spent online trying to organize our travel notes and pictures.  The RV park was a great stop and very quiet at night.  In the morning we packed up and headed just down the road for a stop at the San Jose Mission.  This was much larger than the other missions, and while you envision a 'church' it actually amounted to a small village setting with many of the areas restored so that you could imagine the life of the Indians and Roman Catholic Priests.  There was a sculptor at work on a restoration project of the church entry monuments.  The wheat flour mill has been restored and flour production was underway. 
   
      We had lunch in the parking lot and then we were on our way.  San Antonio really requires more than one day to explore, but the day was worth it and we are glad we got to learn a little bit of the history of this sprawling town.  We are headed for Big Bend National Park for some hiking and exploring.

RG & FP

 The Alamo

 Our spot at Traveler's RV Park