San Antonio, August 27, 2025
News Summary
The Texas General Land Office has acquired the historic Crockett and Menger Hotels in downtown San Antonio to enhance the visitor experience at the Alamo. This significant transaction, which involved Rockbridge and Alamo Trust, Inc., aims to improve the Alamo’s status as a premier historic destination. Although the hotels have been assessed at $55 million, the specific purchase price remains undisclosed. Enhancements are planned as part of a broader $550 million Alamo redevelopment project that aims to elevate education and visitor experience.
San Antonio
The Texas General Land Office (GLO) has officially acquired the historic Crockett and Menger Hotels in downtown San Antonio, a move announced on August 26, 2025. This significant purchase aims to enhance the overall visitor experience at the Alamo, Texas’s most famous historic site, which draws millions of visitors each year.
Located just steps from the Alamo, the Crockett Hotel is found at 320 Bonham Street, while the Menger Hotel is situated at 204 Alamo Plaza. Both hotels boast a rich history, having been prominent landmarks in San Antonio for over a century.
Texas Land Commissioner Dawn Buckingham stated that acquiring the hotels is a vital step toward strengthening the visitor experience at the Alamo, reinforcing its status as a premier historical destination. This acquisition aligns with the broader Alamo Plan, a multi-million dollar initiative designed to revitalize the area surrounding the Alamo.
Details of the Purchase
The GLO partnered with Rockbridge, an investment firm based in Ohio, and the Alamo Trust, Inc. to finalize the acquisition, which saw the two properties assessed at a combined valuation of $55 million. However, the specific purchase price has not been disclosed.
Hotel Histories
The Crockett Hotel, constructed in 1909 originally as a fraternity lodge, features 138 guest rooms and is listed on the National Register of Historic Structures. Conversely, the Menger Hotel, which opened its doors in 1859, has a renowned history, having welcomed notable guests, including various U.S. Presidents. Both hotels are recognized members of Historic Hotels of America and are situated on land previously utilized as agricultural fields by Mission San Antonio de Valero, the site of the Alamo.
Following the acquisition, Rockbridge Holdings will take over the operational management of both hotels. Meanwhile, the GLO has assumed day-to-day operations of the Alamo following a legal dispute regarding its management.
Expanding the Alamo Experience
The acquisition of these hotels is part of the broader strategy to secure the footprint around the Alamo Complex. This initiative will enhance the prominence of the historic site and improve the overall visitor experience. The Alamo redevelopment project has a projected budget of $550 million and aims to broaden the public’s understanding of the Alamo and Texas’s fight for independence.
Plans for the redevelopment include the construction of an Alamo Visitor Center and museum, an educational facility, and the recently opened Plaza De Valero outdoor gathering space. Although the GLO has yet to disclose specific renovation plans for the hotels, the focus remains on providing a comprehensive educational experience for visitors and students alike.
Conclusion
As the GLO works to enhance the Alamo’s status as a vital battlefield site in the United States, the acquisition of the Crockett and Menger Hotels is seen as a critical element of ongoing efforts to establish a richer, more informative experience for all Alle visitors.
FAQ
What is the significance of the GLO’s purchase of the Crockett and Menger Hotels?
The acquisition is intended to enhance the visiting experience at the Alamo, which is Texas’s most visited historic site.
What are the plans for renovation surrounding the Alamo redevelopment?
Although specific renovation plans for the hotels have not been disclosed, the overall project will involve the development of an Alamo Visitor Center, educational facilities, and improvements to public spaces.
How much did the hotels cost?
The total assessed value of the hotels is $55 million, but the exact purchase price has not been made public.
Who will manage the hotels?
Rockbridge Holdings will oversee the operation of both the Crockett and Menger Hotels following the acquisition.
What is the budget for the Alamo redevelopment project?
The overall Alamo redevelopment project has a budget of $550 million aimed at improving visitor experiences and education.
| Hotel | Location | Established | Rooms | Historic Designation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Crockett Hotel | 320 Bonham Street | 1909 | 138 | National Register of Historic Structures |
| Menger Hotel | 204 Alamo Plaza | 1859 | Varies | Historic Landmark |
| Date | Event | Status/Source |
|---|---|---|
| August 26, 2025 | Purchase of Crockett and Menger Hotels | Announced by Texas GLO |
| Future Dates | Renovation Plans for Alamo Redevelopment | To be disclosed |
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Texas General Land Office Acquires Historic Hotels in San Antonio
Additional Resources
- KENS 5 News
- Wikipedia: Menger Hotel
- San Antonio Current
- Google Search: Menger and Crockett Hotels
- KSAT News
- Google Scholar: Alamo Redevelopment Project
- Express News
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Texas General Land Office
- Fox San Antonio
- Google News: Menger and Crockett Hotels
Author: STAFF HERE SAN ANTONIO WRITER
The SAN ANTONIO STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HERESanAntonio.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in San Antonio, Bexar County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Fiesta San Antonio, San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo, and Dia de los Muertos. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater San Antonio Chamber of Commerce and United Way of San Antonio and Bexar County, plus leading businesses in retail, insurance, and energy that power the local economy such as H-E-B, USAA, and Valero Energy. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAustinTX.com, HERECollegeStation.com, HEREDallas.com, and HEREHouston.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Texas's dynamic landscape.
