San Antonio in a Day

Our Local Expert Says:

Take the 40-minute, 2.5-mile river barge cruise to hear the full history of the Riverwalk and downtown San Antonio. It's worth every penny.

Description:

The River Walk is a must-see for any traveler to San Antonio. The River Walk was conceived in 1929. Downtown had serious flooding problems, and a 27-year-old UT architecture graduate named Robert H. Hugman suggested that the city turn the San Antonio River into an asset rather than a hindrance. Hugman's brainchild has since become the essence of the city. Stairways down to the River Walk can be found on street level throughout downtown. Walk down anywhere you like, and wander and explore the great shops, galleries, restaurants and sights. To get the full story on the history of the River Walk, take the Rio San Antonio river barge cruise for a 45-minute narrated tour. It is well worth the price. For the romantically inclined, there are also dining cruises for two. It's a sight you don't see just anywhere: a couple eating at a finely appointed candle-lit table on a small, flat boat floating down the river. Service is great because the waiter is never more than a few feet away.

Description:

Casa Rio was the first restaurant on the River Walk and is still a must if you have never eaten riverside. With colorful décor, inside and outside seating, and a prime location for people-watching, this restaurant is a favorite among both tourists and locals. Add potent, thirst-quenching margaritas, waitresses bustling about in Mexican sundresses, and Mexican favorites such as enchiladas and tamales, and you have the makings of the classic Tex-Mex dining experience. Because no reservations are taken and this is a hot spot, you may want to arrive a little early to avoid long lines.

Our Local Expert Says:

No matter what your faith is, visiting the San Fernando Cathedral is a beautiful and moving experience.

Description:

The San Fernando Cathedral was founded in 1731 and is the oldest active cathedral in Texas. Fifteen families from the Canary Islands were the church's first members. They were a part of King Phillip's efforts to colonize the area and claim it for Spain before the French could gain a foothold in the region. Considered one of the most historically significant churches in the U.S., it has been visited by a number of dignitaries throughout its long history, including President Lyndon Baines Johnson in 1966 and Pope John Paul II in 1987. Located midway between the city center and the Market Square, the cathedral welcomes up to 5,000 people for weekend masses.

Our Local Expert Says:

A great place to come for souvenirs, but also to see a slice of everyday life in a culturally vibrant city.

Description:

A vibrant cultural and business center since the 1820s, Market Square is the scene of festivals and outdoor events year-round. Market Square is at its best in April, during the city-wide Fiesta celebration. The rest of the year visitors will find great Mexican restaurants, traditional Mexican handicrafts and an indoor shopping center where you are sure to find the perfect souvenir to commemorate your trip. Museo Alameda, which is affiliated with The Smithsonian, features exhibits of work by Latino artists. The square is located just west of the city center and walking distance from most downtown hotels.

Our Local Expert Says:

The Alamo is in the center of downtown San Antonio, so don't miss it. Be sure to attend one of the oral presentations given in the courtyard during the day. The storytelling will give you a good idea of what happened at this famous site.

Description:

Originally the Mission San Antonio del Valero, the Alamo is by far the most famous historical site in Texas, playing a significant role in Texas' quest for independence from Mexico. Under the command of Col. William Travis, 189 Texan soldiers bravely defended this fort for 13 days before finally succumbing to Santa Anna's massive Mexican army in early 1836. The chapel and the Long Barrack are all that remain of the fort. Saved from civilian apathy by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, the mission is now a museum containing relics from the era. Texans take the Alamo very seriously. Silence, or at least a hushed tone of voice, is insisted upon both in the chapel and on the grounds. Narrated tours are available. Admission is free, but donations are encouraged.

Our Local Expert Says:

The best part of this park and playground is that it is free! It is big enough to keep your kids occupied for hours. At dusk it is a romantic place with water features and of course there is the view from the top of the tower, which is spectacular day or night.

Description:

Originally created as the grounds for the 1968 Worlds Fair, this park is a favorite of locals and visitors alike. Stroll through the park's 12 acres of fountains, pools, and beautifully landscaped grounds or cavort on the Downtown All Around Playground. Built entirely by volunteers, this playground features wooden play areas designed by kids, including a space tunnel and a castle- perfect for letting little imaginations run wild. Also located on the park grounds are the Institute of Texan Cultures and the Tower of the Americas.

Our Local Expert Says:

Check out the (slowly) revolving restaurant at the top of the tower and book a romantic and scenic dinner at sunset for amazing views of the city and a great dining experience.

Description:

Built for the 1968 World's Fair, the 750-foot Tower of the America's is now a multifaceted tourist attraction, with an upscale bar, two restaurants, an observation deck, and a movie theater. Instead of paying $10.95 for a ticket to the observation deck at the top of the tower, you may want to apply that money toward lunch or dinner at the Chart House restaurant or drinks at the bar (the ride is free for restaurant and bar customers). The top of the tower slowly rotates for an ever-changing view. Check out the Tower of the Americas Plaza, at street level, during the summer. Every Friday night from 7 p.m. to midnight, there are live music performances, car shows, and other free events.

Description:

La Villita means "Little Village" and it is the original home of the first settlers of San Antonio. Today, people visit La Villita for its quaint cobblestone paths, art galleries, and history. It is located on the south bank of the San Antonio River and hosts many outdoor festivals and events with live music and dancing, especially in the springtime. Don't miss a weekend dance performance of Ballet Folklorico at The Arneson River Theater, an amphitheater in La Villita, with the stage located across the San Antonio River. The Little Church, built in 1879, features a gorgeous stained-glass cross along the back wall. It's now an active non-denominational church that is also available for weddings and other events.

Description:

Established on March 2, 1879, this church forms an integral part of the history of La Villita. No particular denomination met here consistently, but it continues to exist, and is the favorite local wedding venue. The church also supports and hosts the Starving Artist Art Gallery's annual show.

Description:

This River Walk incarnation of a longtime San Antonio favorite relinquished its old Chianti bottle-kitsch decor for a soaring ceiling, lots of inscrutable contemporary art, and a more up-to-date menu. But the one thing the restaurant couldn't give up, at the risk of a local insurrection, was the signature shrimp Paesano's. The crispy crustaceans are as good as their devotees claim, as are the reasonably priced pizzas, including the one topped with grilled chicken, artichokes, basil pesto, and feta cheese. Other good values are the hearty southern Italian staples such as lasagna with meat sauce. Standouts among the pricier entrees include the grilled pork chops with potato gnocchi, as well as the veal Francesa. Locals tend to go to the newer -- and somewhat quieter -- Paesano's, across from the Quarry Golf Club, at 555 Basse Rd., Ste. 100 (tel. 210/828-5191).

Description:

When you think of San Antonio, you don't necessarily think of an Irish pub, now do you? Well, think again. Durty Nelly's, located on the River Walk on the river level of the Hilton hotel, is a rollicking good time. Pull up a chair, order a beer (or two, or ten) and sing along with the pianist. A versatile guy, the pianist takes requests and can play just about anything. Probably the most fun thing to do is munch on the peanuts and toss the shells on the floor. Yes, it is allowed!