San Antonio Romantic Getaway

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:

If you are looking for an upscale dining experience with classic cuisine and a decor to match, look no further. Nothing is taken for chance at this restaurant, which is located on the River Walk in a charming, restored old home in La Villita. The china, silver, table settings and general decor of this restaurant make it an experience in fine dining. The menu consists of entrees such as rack of lamb, chateaubriand and beef Wellington. The Fig Tree also spares no expense on a very well-rounded wine list.

Our Local Expert Says:

Check out "Fiesta Noche del Rio" a musical extravaganza featuring the dance and songs of Mexico, Spain, Argentina and Texas. The show runs Friday and Saturday nights at 8:30pm from May to mid-August. You will not be disappointed.

Description:

Come by for a one-of-a-kind theater-going experience. The Arneson River Theatre is located on the southern side of River San Antonio. Watch all the events from the other side of the river, where the auditorium is situated. Made of grassy steps, the auditorium has a capacity of 800-1000 people. Watch out for the periodic concerts, plays, and dance or musical performances. You can also hire the venue to stage a particular performance. Call and fix an appointment, if you want to check details about the venue. There is an additional building available for hosting guests, where alcoholic beverages can be served and sold, only with a proper TABC permit.

Description:

Craving a chocolate martini? Belly up to the bar at the River Walk's nod to retro chic. Single-barrel bourbon, single-malt scotch, and a wide selection of beer and wines fill out the drink menu, but James Bond's preferred poison is always the top seller. Nightly live jazz adds to the pizzazz. The big cigars are the catch (or draw) here. This place was so popular it spurred a national chain.

Our Local Expert Says:

The hotel has complimentary daily happy hours and afternoon teas for hotel guests, featuring local delicacies and spirits.

Description:

The recycling of downtown historic buildings into hotels is an admirable trend, but there's also something to be said for new construction -- at least when it's done right. Opened at the very end of the last century, this property was designed to blend in architecturally with the older structures that flank it on this (relatively) quiet section of the river bend, but its clean lines are attuned to 21st-century style.

From the lobby to the rooms, varying materials of contrasting textures and Spanish colonial accents create an atmosphere that's soothing without being bland. Of course, the property includes Westin's signature "Heavenly Beds." Perhaps in a nod to its many high-end Latin American business visitors, the hotel has a traditional Merienda Wednesday to Friday evenings, which includes Mexican hot chocolate, sweet bread, cookies, and refreshments (it's free to hotel guests). This Westin has also nicely incorporated several kid-friendly features. All rooms are nonsmoking.

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.

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:

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.

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:

Bruce Auden's award-winning Biga on the Banks is located in a spectacular setting in downtown San Antonio's modern International Center. Overlooking a romantic tree-canopied bend in the river, the historic and the new find common ground in Biga's dynamic re-emergence with ultra contemporary cuisine propelling San Antonio's recent ascent to a new level of River Walk dining. Gourmet Magazine named Biga one of the five best restaurants in Texas. Fine dining has never meant "fussy" to Chef Auden. Biga's ambiance is casual and relaxed - San Antonio style. Auden's celebrated culinary background, coupled with creative and energetic design, has marked Biga on the Banks as one of Texas' truly outstanding restaurants.

Description:

This bar pours more than 40 varieties of wine available by the glass, including more than five varieties of champagne. If none of those suit you, partake of any one of the numerous brandies or liqueurs, or enjoy a premium mixed drink from the fully stocked bar. Beautiful but small, Zinc has almost an elitist, yet friendly, feel; it is as if you have discovered the clique and have been welcomed. The crowds are small, even though it is just one block off the beaten path from River Walk.

Our Local Expert Says:

The hotel has complimentary daily happy hours and afternoon teas for hotel guests, featuring local delicacies and spirits.

Description:

The recycling of downtown historic buildings into hotels is an admirable trend, but there's also something to be said for new construction -- at least when it's done right. Opened at the very end of the last century, this property was designed to blend in architecturally with the older structures that flank it on this (relatively) quiet section of the river bend, but its clean lines are attuned to 21st-century style.

From the lobby to the rooms, varying materials of contrasting textures and Spanish colonial accents create an atmosphere that's soothing without being bland. Of course, the property includes Westin's signature "Heavenly Beds." Perhaps in a nod to its many high-end Latin American business visitors, the hotel has a traditional Merienda Wednesday to Friday evenings, which includes Mexican hot chocolate, sweet bread, cookies, and refreshments (it's free to hotel guests). This Westin has also nicely incorporated several kid-friendly features. All rooms are nonsmoking.

Our Local Expert Says:

Breakfast is served all day (7am-3pm) but lunch starts at 11am, 10am on Sunday. The Sunday brunch here is fabulous. Try the pancakes or biscuits made from Pioneer flour from the local mill.

Description:

The Guenther House makes its home in an elegant historic mansion on the property of Pioneer Flour Mills in the historic King William area on an undeveloped part of the San Antonio River. From its not-so-humble beginnings as the home of Carl Hilmer Guenther in 1860, it has been restored into one of the more unique dining experiences in the city. The breakfast menu (served all day) offers Southern Sweet Cream Waffles and breakfast tacos, among other items. At lunch, choose from such entries as Champagne Chicken Enchiladas and Pioneer Taco Salad.

Description:

Located just south of the downtown area, the King William Historic District is a residential area that was settled by German immigrants in the 1860s and named for Kaiser Wilhelm, King of Prussia during the 1870s. Many of the immigrants were talented stonemasons, and their handiwork is still visible on many of the homes. The early residents of the houses were major players in San Antonio's business community, including lumberyard owners, architects, doctors and other professionals. Visitors flock to the area to admire the large, impressive houses and walk along the pecan- and cypress-shaded streets. The district has evolved into a hip and artsy area, boasting bed and breakfasts, art galleries and quaint cafes.

Description:

Mission San Jose, located at the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, was founded in 1720 by Father Antonio Margil de Jesus. If you only have time to visit one of the San Antonio Missions, the "Queen of the Missions" is the one to see. It is the largest of the five missions and the most fully restored. The mission was a church-focused community, where Spanish missionaries and their Native American converts lived during the 1700s and 1800s. In its heyday, in the late 1700s, 350 Native Americans lived on the property and tended crops and livestock. The site's bounty made it the subject of frequent attacks by Apaches and Comanches. While they succeeded in stealing livestock, which was kept outside the compound, the raiders could not get past the formidable defenses of the mission itself. Free ranger-guided tours last 45 to 60 minutes and are available periodically throughout the day. The mission remains an active church, and visitors are permitted to attend the Sunday mass.

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.

Description:

Located in Market Square, this San Antonio oldie-but-goodie has been a favorite of both locals and tourists since 1946. The Mexican specialties such as Chile Rellenos, Huevos Rancheros and the huge combination platters are excellent, and the atmosphere truly takes you south of the border. Nowhere else will you be serenaded by mariachis while enjoying chorizo and eggs or an eight-ounce rib eye. But be sure to have a tip ready for the entertainers; they want to enjoy a meal later as well. Finally, do not miss the panaderia (bakery) for fresh breakfast pastries, Mexican breads and sweet rolls.

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.

Description:

Steaks, seafood and Southwestern specialties from deep in the "haute" of Texas. Located on San Antonio's famous River Walk, Boudro's is often the restaurant for spotting visiting celebrities. Don't miss the fresh Guacamole (made tableside), the Prickly Pear Margaritas or the blackened Prime Rib. And be sure to dine with friends so you can order one of every dessert to share. Boudro's is a favorite among locals and tourists alike and books quickly. Dining is available indoors, riverside, and on river barges with advance reservations. Handicapped access is available through a street-level elevator.

Description:

Lonestar Carriage offers carriage rides for all special occasions, and limos for large groups. They can provide custom decorations and lights or even 'Just Married' signs to suit your needs. The drivers will cater to your every whim including providing you with historical tidbits at points of interest throughout the city. Their goal is to spread their love of horses and beautiful San Antonio to others. They also buy, sell and trade horses and carriages.

Our Local Expert Says:

Reasonably priced ticket includes three-course meal and show.

Description:

This theater, located in the historic King William district, has an interesting history dating back to 1912. Back then, it housed the Alamo Methodist Church for more than five decades. It was later purchased by Bill and Marcie Larsen. Renovations followed transforming the brick construction into the beautiful Alamo Street Theatre. Of course, some of the architectural delights like the stained glass windows were maintained. This structure is listed in the National Registry of Historic Buildings. Now, it has been renamed as Church Bistro & Theatre. Plays here are hosted by various companies and are based on melodramas, musicals, mysteries and comedies. An in-house restaurant serves a delicious buffet. Reservations are required for the show, as well as the buffet.

Description:

Take a relaxing stroll through the beautiful gardens of native Texas plants and flowers. If you want a special treat, plan to have lunch at the Carriage House Bistro on site and dine outside on the patio. For a scenic trip to the gardens, hop onto the VIA Sightseer bus #7. It is only $1 and it will take you right to the front door!

Our Local Expert Says:

This place is owned by the chef, Mark Bohanan, so each dish is prepared with a real desire to please.

Description:

Executive chef and owner Mark Bohanan personally invites you to his life-long dream - Bohanan's Prime Steaks and Seafood. Bohanan's offers only prime grade, center-cut Aberdeen Angus beef with exclusive selections of ultra-marbled Japanese Akaushi beef. Over 35 varieties of succulent seafood which is day-boat caught and flown directly to the restaurant. This exclusive establishment is a playground for cattle barons, captains of industries, and athletes of all venues. Bohanan's is conveniently located in the heart of downtown San Antonio's historic theatre district within walking distance of the famous River Walk. Sophisticated yet cozy, Bohanan's excels with a AAA Four Diamond award-winning menu and the Wine Spectator's Best of Award of Excellence. The staff sommelier's wine list offers over 700 selections. Famous rolling Cognac cart, with an impeccable array of smooth single malt scotches, and only the finest easy-smoking cigars.