Spain's missionary presence can best be felt at the ruins of the four missions south of town: Missions Concepción (1731), San José (1720), San Juan (1731) and Espada (1745–56). Religious services are still held in the mission churches of San José, San Juan and Espada, and the mariachi Mass at 12:30pm on Sunday at San José church is a San Antonio tradition.
From downtown, VIA transit bus 42 goes to Concepción and San José. The Texas Trolley tours visit San José and Concepción. Otherwise, rent a bicycle or drive. From downtown, take St Mary's St south until it becomes Mission Rd, then follow the brown signs indicating the direction to the missions.
