San Antonio Missions National Historic Park

While on a work trip in San Antonio, Eric and I were able to visit two National Park system sites.  The first was San Antonio Missions National Historic Park.

This was specifically the San Jose Mission.  We were very limited on time so we did a very quick walk through and got my stamps at the visitor center.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park embodies nearly 300 years of rich history and culture. Within the national park, four separate mission sites, a colonial ranch, as well as irrigation features like an aqueduct and acequias offer recreation opportunities for the whole family. Step back in time while never leaving the city at Mission San José, Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada.

All four of the mission sites at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park also still contain active catholic parishes. The churches hold regular services in these historic buildings and are owned and operated by the Archdiocese of San Antonio. They are open to park visitors during park hours (9am-5pm), except for during special services, such as weddings and funerals.

Whether you plan to visit just one mission or all four, we hope this information will help you plan your adventure.

Explore San Antonio Missions

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park's Spanish colonial architectural structures are more than 250 years old. Even the structures that were reconstructed in the 1930's are now almost 100 years old! These mission structures were not built for the 1 million visitors that the park sees every year. Be mindful that some structures are not built to today’s safety standards. Surfaces are uneven, walls may crumble and entrance heights may vary. Use caution when moving about in the historic rooms. For your safety and the preservation of the mission sites, please do not sit, stand, or climb on any of the structures.

Visit the city of San Antonio

San Antonio is a city of deep roots and vibrant culture, located in the heart of South Texas. In the early 1800s, the city grew around the mission communities along the San Antonio River. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is located just 10 minutes south of downtown San Antonio. Learn more about the city of San Antonio and other recreational opportunities that the city has to offer at Visit San Antonio.

(From the National Park Website)

 Quick Facts

Location: 6701 San Jose Dr

Significance: Queen of the Missions, largest mission site

Designation: UNESCO World Heritage site

Amenities 37 listed

Mission San José is in the center of the mission trail and the largest mission site of all five missions along the San Antonio River. The park visitor center and restrooms are located just outside of the mission walls near the parking lot. At Mission San José there are several activities for visitors to enjoy. You are welcome to experience the museum in the visitor center, view the park film, buy souvenirs in the gift shop, take a guided walk with a ranger, or enjoy a self-guided walk. Learn more about Mission San José here. 

Mission San Jose is part of the World Heritage Site. To check out the audio tour visit: San José Audio Tour (worldheritagesa.com)

Explore the Missions

Mission San Jose was founded in 1720 and was nicknamed the Queen of Missions, because it was the largest mission in San Antonio and the most beautiful.   

Mission San Jose is also the most restored mission site offering a glimpse at what the mission sites would’ve looked like during the mission period. The mission walls, parts of the church, and granary were restored in the 1930’s by the Works Progress Administration.   

The mission was moved twice before it found its current site. The first site was moved perhaps to make room for another mission, San Francisco Xavier Najera. The second location was too close to the river and the mission suffered heavy losses due to an epidemic. The mission was then moved a third time to its current location around 1740. The stone walls were completed in 1755. The walls had two purposes, protection from hostile threats, and living quarters for the indigenous people.    

The living quarters consisted of a room and a kitchen. They were furnished with a metate, a comal, a pot, water jar, closet, pantry, bed, and dresser.  During the peak of the mission in 1768, 350 people would live inside the walls. 

The mission was partially secularized in 1794 and fully secularized by Mexico in 1824.   

The architecture especially the arches is so pretty.

Inside of the church.

I'm always happy to get more passport stamps in my book!