Hotels.com asked me to share my favorite things to do and see while traveling in San Antonio, Texas. It is the perfect vacation destination due to its big-city amenities and small-town charm. The seventh largest city in the United States, San Antonio was initially founded in 1718 as a Spanish mission and colonial outpost. This infuses the town with a rich culture that is apparent in the food and the architecture — making it the most visited city of the state. After reading this post, you will understand why the Mark Twain once declared that San Antonio is “one of the only four unique cities in the United States”.
San Antonio has a wide variety of lodging options for all budgets. You can find everything from luxury to budget to boutique. Personally, my favorite area to stay in is directly on The River Walk, since then you are afforded the best view in the city.
If you are thinking that you want to head southwest, the following are the five best things for you and your family to experience:
Stroll Along The River Walk
The River Walk is fifteen miles long and stretches across San Antonio, most notably the downtown area. There is so much to do, eat, and explore along the river. It is an area designed especially for tourists to comfortably walk around on stunning paved paths lined with Cypress trees and bridges connecting the area from one end to another. Exemplified by its name, this pathway runs along the San Antonio River, which gives this area pleasant weather all year round.
Visit The San Antonio Missions National Historic Park
Everyone knows about the Alamo, but too many people overlook San Antonio’s other missions: Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. It is highly recommended to first visit the infamous Alamo, but then spend time wandering around the national park, which is a great place to tour the four missions and enjoy the scenery. The 8-mile start-to-end trail is a favorite amongst runners and cyclists and provides a do-able walk for those looking to stop and explore or join one of the daily tours. The missions all hold Catholic Mass on Sunday mornings.
Stop To Smell The Flowers At The Wildseed Farms
The wildseed farms will not only require you to leave the hustle and bustle of San Antonio, but it will also require you to carry a camera in order to capture the hundreds of species of wildflowers that grow there. You can hike around the area breathing in the fresh air and the refreshing scents of the numerous flowers, which are sure to rejuvenate your spirit. The farm also has a market area where you can buy native plants, gifts, pottery, and wine. In order to cool off, you can enjoy an ice cream cone at Brewbonnet Biergarten.
Meet The Animals At The San Antonio Zoo
The San Antonio zoo was founded in the year 1914 and is a cage less zoo ,which is home to 9,000 animals belonging to 779 species. It was one of the first zoos in the world to successfully reproduce the white rhinoceros with the help of their unique breeding program and also has one of the largest collection of birds in the country. The best way to commute through the zoo is by the San Antonio zoo eagle — a train that takes you to see the most exciting spots.
Shop, Eat, And Drink In The Historical Pearl District
The Pearl Brewery was a large-scale brewery operating from 1883 to 2001. Today, it is home to one of the most happening neighborhoods in San Antonio. The 22-acre Pearl complex is home to dozens of restaurants and shops. It is so massive that you really could spend several days of your trip there. There is always something to do, especially when the farmer’s market is alive and happening.
Please keep in mind that traveling in this moment remains uncertain, thus always make sure your safety and the safety of others is your #1 priority. If you are indeed comfortable with traveling, ensure you travel responsibly and within regulation. You travel at your own risk.
Here are some recommendations should you travel:
- Wear a face mask.
- Bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands on a regular basis.
- Check official websites before your trip for the latest updates on policies, closures, and status of local businesses. Be aware you might have to self-quarantine upon arrival.
- Book a hotel with free cancellation in case you need to change your plans at the last minute.
- Be patient and calm. Remember we are all trying to do our best and are in this together.
A city which holds its culture in high regard, while serving as the birthplace of many historical events, San Antonio has a place in its heart for anyone who cares to understand it. It really is absolutely magical to visit! You may not be able to do everything in this post in one weekend or even in one week. However, that just means there are more things you can cross off for next time.
