Saturday, May 10, 2025
Remember the Alamo
Last week I was in San Antonio for work. As part of that, we went on a "best of San Antonio" tour, which turned out to be somewhat ill fated. You see, it was Fiesta Week in San Antonio, and unknown to us outsiders, there was a parade downtown that attracted half a million people. Which our tour bus ended up being trapped in traffic by, for a few hours straight. And, of course, Lord of the Flies syndrome began to set in.
"I thought we were going to see the Alamo. That's the whole reason I came on this tour, to see the Alamo."
"Couldn't we just walk? Can't we just leave the bus and walk from here?"
"It's supposed to rain. And lightning. I don't think we're safe on this bus in rain and lightning."
"Can I just jump off and try to find a port-a-potty somewhere? I really have to pee."
"What about the Alamo? We were supposed to have a private tour at 2."
Ultimately we did end up seeing the Alamo, but like two hours later and without the private tour. And, as everyone warned me it would be, it was somewhat underwhelming. I mean, not that I thought they'd put in high-speed turbulent thrill rides or anything, but it's basically just the mission, a modern museum, and a bunch of old walls. Which are totally my jam, don't get me wrong, but an hour was plenty of time to take it all in.
Also, Phil Collins. Did you know that UK rock star Phil Collins, of Genesis fame, is a huge Alamo buff? He actually collected a bunch of Alamo memorabilia and donated it to the Alamo. So there are pictures of him everywhere there. He also does some of the voiceover narration for the exhibits. Like, the guy really likes the Alamo.
I think my favorite part was the gift shop. I bought a coonskin cap for a scant $18. It did give me a rash so I think I may be allergic to it, but still, that's a great value.
