It is no secret that the Alamo is highly valued and culturally significant to locals and tourists. Despite its rich backstory and the often-repeated phrase, “Remember the Alamo,” forgetting the landmark has been no challenge for many.
The Alamo was established in 1718 as Mission San Antonio de Valero, and over time it served as a garrison for five different armies, becoming best known for the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. The battle and its still-standing location symbolizes Texas’s resistance and strength when fighting for independence during the Texas Revolution, making the site a historically rich landmark.
Unfortunately, the current site brings injustice to its legacy. Its tours and a simple walkthrough are underwhelming and often boring. The guided tours and lack of vitality brought to the Alamo make it feel like any other old building — a curiosity lives inside those who visit, but also a lack of connection. Small signs here and there line the building, and often a tour guide or audio recording of someone reading a lackluster script fills visitors’ ears. The former mission is full of stories of resilience and honor, yet these feelings are not brought to life in the current attraction.
The Alamo even landed a spot on Thrillist’s list of America’s Most Overrated Tourist Destinations, being called unimpressive as a landmark — not its history — and disappointing to tourists due to its exhibitions.
Museums and exhibitions are not only meant for storytelling but also for educating and commemorating. No matter how hard Texans and the infamous “remember” quote try, the landmark feels like something locals are forced to cherish, rather than something they organically appreciate.
In 2023, Governor Greg Abbott signed into law the over $400 million appropriations request for the Alamo Plan. This funding will renew the Alamo, “ensuring the preservation and revitalization of this iconic historic site,” reads the Alamo Plan website.
The Alamo Plan proposes an entirely new Alamo District, featuring beautified pedestrian areas, including Alamo Plaza, Alamo Promenade, Alamo Gardens and Paseo del Alamo, which will lead to the River Walk. These spaces will give the Alamo its much-deserving attention and proper respect. Additionally, there are plans to open a collections building, an education center for the district and in 2027, the Alamo Visitor Center and Museum.
This revitalization will create a larger designated space to learn about the Alamo and value it more. The rich history the former mission holds in and outside its walls deserves to be relished and never forgotten, not because of a quote, but because of its symbolism and importance to Texas culture. Hopefully, this new Alamo District sheds light on the city’s abundant history and fosters greater community appreciation.
