The most popular of the landmarks of Texas is the historic Alamo in San Antonio. It is one of the most famous landmarks in Texas and many people travel from afar to see it. One of the most famous battles in American history took place at the Alamo. It was originally named Mission San Antonio de Valero and served as a home to missionaries and Indians for almost seventy years. San Antonio and the Alamo played a vital role in achieving Texas Independence. Those who fought at the Alamo were ready to give their lives for the Alamo and the independence of Texas. Today, over two million people per year visit the famous landmarks of Texas called the Alamo. The Alamo has been managed by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas since 1905. The Alamo is open every day of the year except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Admission into the Alamo is free. There is also a lot of great shopping and a park around the Alamo's location.
Located outside of Houston, the next famous landmarks in Texas are the San Jacinto Monument and Museum. The Battle of San Jacinto was the most crucial battle in the war for Texas Independence. The Battle of San Jacinto was the battle at which Texas' independence was won from Mexico. The San Jacinto Monument stands fifteen feet higher than the Washington Monument and was completed in 1939. The San Jacinto Museum is housed at the base of the monument. The monument and museum are open seven days a week from 9 am to 6 pm.
The Rio Grande was crucial in the battles between Texas and Mexico and it also developed famous landmarks of Texas. Many wars took place along the river. The Battle of Palo Alto was the first of the battles for Texas' independence from Mexico. The three thousand four hundred acre battlefield is located north of Brownsville and a short drive from South Padre Island.
Other famous landmarks of Texas are in Galveston. Galveston endured a very harsh hurricane in 1900 and only a few of the major houses were saved from the destruction. The historic Galveston 1894 Opera House endured the hurricane is still operating today with performances from Willie Nelson to Tony Bennet. The opera house is the official "Opera House of Texas." Bishop's Palace is another building that survived the hurricane as well. It was finished in 1893 and was ornately designed. It features impressive fireplaces from around the world as well as colored rock and ornately carved wood. The Moody Mansion is also on Galveston Island and features thirty-rooms with ornate furniture and historic heirlooms from the Moody family. The house was completed in 1895 and is the epitome of Victorian style and architecture on Galveston Island.
These famous landmarks of Texas are usually open all year except during major holidays. They make great family and school outings. They all tell the story of Texas and its unique history. Texas is different than any other state and its famous landmarks show that. Texans are proud of their history and their famous landmarks in Texas.