San Antonio is a city of history and culture mixed with foodie heaven. Texas’ most visited city is sure to offer you a great adventure. Bring your appetite, but leave your tighter pants at home!
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San Antonio Facts
- San Antonio is home to America’s second-oldest park. San Pedro Park became a park in 1852. During the Civil War, the park was used to hold prisoners of war. Today the park has more than 60 hiking trails, a library, and more.
- The Alamo is the most visited attraction in Texas.
- Home to the oldest church in Texas. San Fernando Cathedral dates back to 1738.
- (During normal times) San Antonio holds a 10-day Fiesta. It happens every April (except 2020). The Fiesta began to honor the memory of the battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto.
- San Antonio is the 7th largest city in the United States.
- Home to El Mercado’s shopping district which is the largest Mexican market in the U.S. spanning 3 blocks the outdoor plaza is a combination of 100 restaurants, shops, and produce stands.
- The Missions are the only World Heritage Site in Texas.
Downtown San Antonio
Most are familiar with the downtown San Antonio area. The Riverwalk and Alamo are surrounded by historic and new(er) restaurants and shops. Of course, this area is a must-see while in the city, but can be a bit overwhelming about where to go first.
San Antonio’s Missions
The Spanish colonial mission were established in the early 1700s when the world was expanding and cultures were intertwining. Today they are a World Heritage Site in the heart of San Antonio for all to enjoy.
We took a Christmas Eve stroll through all the missions and had them virtually to ourselves.
San Antonio’s Most Famous Mission – The Alamo
“Remember the Alamo!”
April 21st, 1836, Sam Houston and around 900 Texans ready themselves for battle. Outnumbered against General Santa Anna and the Mexican Army, and shouting “remember the Alamo” as a rallying cry, they attacked. A mere 18 minutes later, the Mexican Army was soundly defeated. With 650 killed, 208 wounded, and 300 captured against the Texans 11 killed and 30 wounded.
But why did the Texans need to remember the Alamo? What is it?
The story starts in 1700 with the establishment of Mission San Francisco de Solano near the Rio Grande. Created to convert Native Americans to Catholicism and the Spanish way of life. In 1718, the Mission was moved to present day San Antonio. With the move, it became the first of five Spanish Missions in the area.
As converted Native American populations dwindled and the cultivated lands became more desirable, control was passed to local authorities. This fate was shared by the other area Missions.
After the turn of the century and with increased French and American threats, Spain mobilized into the Texan frontier. Since the Mission was now secularized, the Spanish military occupied and converted it into an outpost. The first soldiers were called La Segunda Compania Volante de San Carlos de Parra (The Second Flying Company of San Carlos de Parra). Also called “The Alamo Company” due to their hometown of Alamo de Parras, the outpost was referred to as Pueblo de la Compania del Alamo. This eventually became just the “Alamo”.
Discover more by reading Visiting San Antonio’s Alamo.
Menger Bar
Reigning as San Antonio’s oldest continuously operating saloon, Menger Bar across from the Alamo is a must-see. Wander in for a drink wander around for the historic photos and artifacts. You will find few changes since the days when Theodora Roosevelt recruited his volunteer cavalry of “Rough Riders” for the Spanish-American War here. Teddy and his crew held shooting contests at the mirror. (Ask the bartender to show you the bullet holes.)
Carrie Nation took her famous hatchet to the bar at one point. You can see the repairs on the bar top near the entrance to the bar.
They boast a great mango ice cream, but it was December and cold so we didn’t try it.
Riverwalk
Often called the “Heart of the City,” The River Walk was a revitalization project to bring a city park a story below the streets of downtown San Antonio. Strolling along the river’s shores, you would never guess you were in a city until you reach the numerous restaurants and nightlife. The River Walk connects the five historic missions or just allows you to pop in for a meal.
Visiting during the holidays will give you the chance to see the banks decorated with colorful lights “dripping” from the trees!
Tip: We parked at the Pearl and strolled the path.
The Pearl in San Antonio
Not far outside the gates of Fort Sam Houston and backed up to the River Walk, you will find The Pearl. Reflecting its vivid past in a new(ish) mixed-use area, you will find condos, restaurants, shops, breweries, and a Farmer’s Market today. But from 1883 to 2001, the space was just one brewery.
Originally The San Antonio Brewing Association was the largest brewery in Texas producing more than 110,000 barrels a year. Prohibition had the brewery switch its production to “near beer” and soft drinks, but within minutes of prohibition ending 100 trucks and 25 railcars rolled out filled with beer. Pabst took over in the 1980s. While you can still buy Pearl beer on the premises it is no longer produced there.
Historic Downtown Gruene
Heading north from the Alamo Heights area, you will find the New Braunfels/historic Gruene area.
While we were visiting during restricted/distancing times, you can see the historic downtown Gruene area would be a ton of fun (during normal times). Small shops and bars line the small roads. All are creating a spider web out from the historic Gruene Dance Hall.
Built in 1878, the hall is the oldest continuously operating dance hall in Texas. The building still has the original layout. Complete with side flaps for open air dancing, a bar in the front, a small lighted stage in the back and a huge outdoor garden.
The venue is known for identifying up and coming artists, as well as, hosting legendary names of country music.
Where to Eat in San Antonio
- Alamo Cafe
- This unassuming local chain will leave you with a solid fresh tortilla addiction! Definitely try the puffy tacos too!
- Chester’s Burgers
- While others may mention another Texas burger and claim it is best, this is the best burger! Grab a double green chile cheeseburger and don’t forget the onion rings.
- La Soluna
- With a beautiful patio and delicious menu, this is a must-stop!
- Bill Miller’s BBQ
- Another local chain with good BBQ and easy to grab on the go!
- Urban Smoke
- We happened across this place just outside the gates of Fort Sam Houston (where we stayed at the military RV fam camp). While I am not sure you will find any bad BBQ in San Antonio this was great brisket.
- Original Donut Shop
- The name leaves out the amazing breakfast tacos, but you should not! The worker told us the most popular donuts were chocolate glazed and an apple fritter. They were good recommendations.
- Folklore Coffee
- We stumbled on this local coffee shop outside the gates of the historic portion of Fort Sam Houston. The coffees were amazing! Simply amazing. You will not go wrong with any items you choose.
The opportunity to have the missions (nearly) to ourselves was one I will never forget. It was amazing to stand in such historic locations and have the privacy to fully enjoy them!
On a personal side, spending time with family and enjoying some of my dad’s favorite restaurants were highlights of San Antonio too!
Angela DiLoreto
Picking a favorite part of San Antonio, outside of the history, is an easy one; the FOOD! We had so many great meals. From small, easy meals like the Green Chile Cheeseburger to more filling meals…like the Green Chile Enchiladas. Breakfast burritos, “artfully” done donuts, tacos, and tortillas. I think I gained five to ten pounds while visiting.
Vince DiLoreto
Tips for your San Antonio Trip
- You are going to pay for parking downtown. Find a place and use your phone for payment options. Please do not take the restaurant parking unless you are dining there.
- Check your diet at the city limits. This is not a trip to diet during!
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