I have to admit, I was a little confused as I began to read about the Landmark Inn. “So, it’s a hotel? That’s open to the public? And it’s a historic site? And a park too?” I couldn’t quite picture it. But on a sunny day in December, E. and I got to see if for ourselves.
The Landmark Inn is indeed a hotel. It’s also a state historic site with a walking trail, several buildings, and lots of informative signs to help visitors along the way.
The main building, which now serves as the hotel, was originally a general store. Later, rooms were rented out to travellers on their way from San Antonio to El Paso.
A trail leads from the main building to the kitchen, which dates to 1849. Continuing along the same path, visitors come to the bathhouse, which supposedly provided the only place for travellers to take a bath between San Antonio and El Paso, according to the accompanying sign.
E. enjoyed walking along the trail and investigating each building, knocking on the doors and then declaring, “No one home!”
Further along the trail, near the Medina River, we saw the old mill. Next to it, a tall wooden marker shows the various flood levels that have occurred at this spot.
We enjoyed our visit to the Landmark Inn, and I definitely learned a few things about life in Texas during the mid-19th century. E. enjoyed walking along the trail and exploring her surroundings. I’m lucky to have such a fun travel companion.
