This town is the epitome of San Antonio independent living. Millions of people each year visit the River Walk, an urban sanctuary winding its way below street level along the central river. Designed by a young architect in 1929, the walk offers tinkling waterfalls, serene pools, outdoor art and exquisite landscapes. Mission San Antonio de Valero, known more commonly as The Alamo, was erected in 1718 as the city’s first mission. As famous for John Wayne’s portrayal of Davy Crocket as it is for its fall to Mexican General Santa Anna’s army in 1836, the mission provides a living monument to a major milestone in both Texan and American history.