Texas trips typically spotlight cities like Houston, Austin, and Dallas. But lately, there have been whispers about San Antonio, the Lone Star State’s second-largest city. San Antonio has history, nightlife and a vibrant local arts and food scene. It’s a laid-back city where you don’t stumble trying to be different.
6 reasons to visit San Antonio
I recently moved to Houston from New York City, so I was skeptical about San Antonio. It was love at first sight upon arrival. Here are some of my favorite places and why San Antonio should be on your must-visit list.
festival all year round
San Antonio is home to many different cultures that celebrate different occasions. Whether it’s a religious holiday or Victory Day, there’s always a party. I happened to be in town during Fiesta San Antonio, the biggest festival of the year. The city hosts his 10-day celebration each April to commemorate Texas’ independence from Mexico. Fiesta San Antonio is his 10-day celebration held by the city each April to commemorate Texas’ independence from Mexico, and includes parades, concerts, culinary competitions, the King William Renaissance Fair, and more.
Festivals are held throughout the city throughout the year. Besides Texas Independence, San Antonio celebrates Cinco de Mayo, Juneteenth, Diez y Sais, Oktoberfest, El Día de los Muertos, and more.
rich in art
The city is full of public art. Murals are scattered throughout the city, and other landmarks include “La Entrucha de la Amistad” (the Torch of Friendship), a towering red sculpture that symbolizes the goodwill between Mexico and San Antonio. There are important institutions such as San Antonio Museum of Artknown for its collections of ancient Greek, Roman, Latin American and Egyptian art. Witte Museum, science, nature and culture are all included. The Antarctic dinosaur exhibit will delight children.
You can also visit smaller galleries such as: in the eyes of the beholder, San Antonio’s only black-owned gallery that primarily showcases local black artists. The work is engaging and provides a detailed depiction of the black American experience.Please stop by at hopscotchis an experimental art gallery featuring interactive installations created by artists from around the world. Even if you’re not a big art lover, this exhibit will blow your mind. trust me. Worth a visit.
Stroll or cruise the Riverwalk
There’s a reason the River Walk is one of the top attractions in San Antonio and all of Texas. It’s a magical hub of activity and beauty, with events, holiday boat caroling and holiday river parades, lighting ceremonies, art shows, restaurants, bars, boutiques, artisan markets, concerts, and anything you can imagine or the unimaginable. is all there. . I don’t know what you can see. The River Walk is 24 miles long and runs through downtown for about 8 miles. You can walk or explore by boat as much as you like. gorio cruise.
eat, drink and have fun
It’s no exaggeration to say that food is delicious in San Antonio. A mix of cultures, San Antonio is sure to have a restaurant to satisfy your appetite. one of his favorite Budro’s at Riverwalk. Dine indoors or at a table along the Riverwalk. This Texas bistro serves delicious dishes like blue crab tostadas, shrimp and grits, wood-fired fish fillets, and blackened prime rib. No wrong choice.
Clementine Another restaurant you must try while in San Antonio. About 20 minutes from downtown, this family-run restaurant is worth the walk. Owner and chef John Russ has been named a finalist for Best Chef at the 2023 James Beard Awards. From appetizers to desserts, you’re sure to be satisfied. Start with the country-style quail fries or flame tarts. Choose an entree such as bycatch snapper and top it with carrot cake with cream cheese icing, candied pineapple, and coconut ice cream.
Some of the most creative “plant-focused” cuisine spots are: pharmacy table, Apothecary Kitchen with locally sourced ingredients, botanical cocktails and natural wines. Be sure to order the ‘India Meets Mexican Guacamole’ made with cilantro, coconut chutney, seasonal herbs, berries and heirloom corn tortillas. It might be the best waku you’ve ever eaten. Be sure to also check out the zucchini noodle bowl, sweet potato waffle, and Peruvian Japanese ceviche.
relive history
You can’t visit San Antonio without stopping in San Antonio Alamo. Explore mission-era churches, gardens, and living history campsites at this UNESCO World Heritage site, hear stories from historical guides, and learn what life was like in the 1830s can be seen in action.
It’s not just about visiting the Alamo. All five of his missions in San Antonio are part of UNESCO World Heritage Sites. mission san joseFor example, it is known as “Mission Queen”. Let her walk the mission grounds, visit the museum, and watch the movie “Gente de Razón” in the on-site theater. She tells the story of 18th-century South Texas natives, their role in the colonization of New Spain, and the impact of Spanish missions.
enjoy the outdoors
While in San Antonio, be sure to visit Brackenridge Park. There are over 300 acres of wilderness and picnic areas along his over 3 miles of the San Antonio River. Other attractions include: of Witte Museum, San Antonio Zoothe oldest municipal golf course in Texas, and japanese tea garden. Between flowers, stone bridges, 60-foot waterfalls and koi ponds, it’s no wonder everyone wants to snap an Instagram photo here.
Fun outdoor events are held on the weekends pearl farmers market, Find food from local farmers and ranchers, local artisan pottery, jewelry and more. The atmosphere is festive, families, couples, lots of dogs having fun, maybe someone playing guitar or singing. While you may be tempted to walk around and taste the vendor’s goodies, there are also great options such as: Southerly Fine Foods and Brewery Along with East Texas crawfish rolls. For lighter fare, try the wood-fired pretzels and duck rolls.
Although I was only in the city for the weekend, walking through the streets of San Antonio was a vibrant and happy atmosphere. There has never been a more perfect time to visit this city. I saw enough to make me decide to go see more.
