Down in South Texas, among historic missions, open markets and the Alamo is a growing city filled with friendly faces and great food; San Antonio.
Famous author Samuel Clemens, better know as Mark Twain once said “San Antonio is “one of America’s four unique cities.” The others are San Francisco, New Orleans, and Boston.” The creator of Huck Finn obviously had fond feelings for this fair city.
In the heart of downtown San Antonio, winding along the famous Riverwalk are many shops and both home-style and gourmet restaurants. Known far and wide by all is the famous Tower of the America’s. This restaurant stands 750 feet high and revolves slowly around giving a panoramic view of this beautiful city while you dine.
Next, for authentic Mexican cuisine, is the Paloma Riverwalk Parilla Grill located on Lasoya at street level. The restaurant is housed in an historic building circa 1900. Limestone walls lend to its authenticity and create a feeling of days gone by to your dining experience. The menu includes South Texas favorites such as enchiladas tradicionales, beef fajitas and carne asada.
You can also find international flavors along the Riverwalk such as Boudro’s, Meson European Dining which offers the finest in French cuisine and Paesano’s for excellent Italian dishes.
After you’ve dined, you can take a leisurely stroll down the Riverwalk and enjoy the many individual shops as well as the River Center Mall. For great bargains and local artistry, you can visit historic Market Square surrounded by quaint restaurants and a farmer’s market. Artists featured in the market include Blacksmiths, Leather Workers, Painters, Potters and Wood craftsman. As you shop, live mariachi music can be heard offering a festive feeling in the air.
As you proceed to Alamo Plaza, you will see the most noted historic site in the middle of San Antonio; The Alamo! The city was built around this old mission which was originally named Misión San Antonio de Valero. The Alamo served as a home to missionaries and their Indian converts for seventy years starting in 1724. Occupied by Spanish revolutionaries and royalists until the Texas Revolution, the Alamo became famous for the battle that ensued when Texans fought for independence from Mexico. Notable people in history who have walked the grounds of the Alamo include General Santa Ana, Davy Crockett and Sam Houston.
At the end of your first day of touring, you’ll want to relax in style at one of San Antonio’s premier Hotels.
Located next door to the Alamo in Alamo Plaza is the Historic Menger Hotel built in 1859. The Menger Hotel has been featured on The Travel Channel’s “Most Haunted Hotels”; being situated so close to the battle ground of the Alamo, it is no wonder that ghosts of slain soldiers would haunt this area. Sightings occur often and are a favorite feature with visitors. The Hotel offers special packages which include a visit to the Alamo Spa where you can relax with a Swedish massage, facial and sauna.
For a luxurious experience, you might choose to stay at the Omni La Mansión del Rio on the Riverwalk. The rich blend of Spanish colonial architecture and a beautiful setting are only two reasons this hotel is recommended for your stay. La Mansión also offers a celebrated restaurant and elegant accommodations.
There are many other attractions to be found in San Antonio for the whole family. Louis Tussaud’s Wax & Ripleys Believe it Not Museum in the Alamo Plaza, The Witte Museum, The McNay Art Museum, and even two theme parks, Seaworld, San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
San Antonio has so much to offer for a fun filled family vacation or a romantic honeymoon. You can even enjoy an NBA game at the SBC center featuring the three time NBA Champion San Antonio Spurs!
San Antonio is my hometown! The weather is sunny, the people are friendly and the activities are endless. Come visit San Antonio on your next vacation!
