City I Love: 11 Perfect Ways to Explore San Antonio, Texas

With a rich history and vibrant culture, San Antonio is a wonderful place to live and travel to. There’s so much to do, eat, and see, so come along as we explore this city we love.

And you can trust us to steer you in the right direction because we’re local! That’s right; we have plenty of stores in the area, so make sure to stop by or give us a call when you’re finished touring these must-visit sites!

The Alamo

Remember the Alamo? The 300-year-old Spanish mission was the site of a pivotal battle during the Texas Revolution. You can learn all about the 13-day siege by visiting this National Historic Landmark. You’ll also have the opportunity to hear about the mission’s history outside of Texas’ fight for independence.

The Pearl District

Most tourists will spend plenty of time on the Riverwalk (which, as we will discuss below, is well worth it), but the Pearl District is an overlooked gem. Once a giant brewery, this site has been transformed into a collection of cool shops, bars, and restaurants. If you’re looking for cute boutiques or grabbing a bite to eat, the Pearl District is the place for you. Check out a map of their vendors and their dining options here.

Tower of the Americas

The Tower of the Americas was built for the 1968 World’s Fair and is the United States’ second tallest observation tower, behind Las Vegas’ Stratosphere Tower. At 750 feet high, the Tower of the Americas is the best way to take in the view of the city. The only question is, do you take the stairs (all 952 of them) or the elevator?

San Antonio Riverwalk:

Often touted as the “crown jewel” of San Antonio, a “world-renowned urban parkway,” and the “American Venice,” the 15-mile Riverwalk along the San Antonio River is arguably the city’s most popular attraction. What is there to do? Sightsee, shop, eat, bike, see art, listen to music, be entertained, and so much more. There’s no entrance fee, and it’s family-friendly!

The Torch of Friendship

The Torch of Friendship is a 65-foot orange abstract sculpture located in the middle of a traffic circle near the Riverwalk. It was a gift to the city from Mexico to represent two cultures merging into one. You can’t miss this brightly colored monument!

Historic Market Square:

Since the 1820s, Market Square has been a place for people to meet, shop, eat, and dance. Today, it’s the largest Mexican market in the United States! Explore Mexican cuisine, pottery, art, music, clothing, and more across three blocks of 100 locally-owned shops and stalls.

Mi Tierra Café:

For authentic Mexican food, Tex-Mex (a cuisine with roots in Texas’ “Tejano” culture), margaritas, and mariachis, grab a table at Mi Tierra Café located downtown near Market Square. May we suggest fajita tacos, cheese enchiladas, or bean and cheese nachos?

San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo:

Yee-haw! Put on your western boots and cowboy hat, and head on over to the Stock Show & Rodeo to experience one of the most significant events in San Antonio! Watch bronc riding, listen to live country music, eat turkey on a stick and funnel cakes, and shop for rodeo-themed items. Just make sure you plan because rodeo dates aren’t year-round.

Watch The City I Love: San Antonio – Part I

 

 

 

 

 

 

Watch The City I Love: San Antonio – Part II

 

 

 

 

 

 

Want more? Here are a few additional sights to check out that didn’t make an appearance in the videos.

Main Plaza Cathedral Light Show:

At the Main Plaza every night, rain or shine, a video art piece is projected onto the front of the San Fernando Cathedral to tell the story of San Antonio from the beginning to today. Built between 1738 and 1750, the Cathedral is the oldest active sanctuary in the U.S.

The World’s Largest Cowboy Boots:

Did you know the World’s Largest Cowboy Boots stand at 35 ft tall? They were originally located in Washington, DC, as an homage to the Lone Star State. Eventually, the boots moved to San Antonio, where they have become an Instagrammable attraction for visitors.

Virgin Mary Mosaic:

It may not contain any wax, but this 40-foot -tall replica of a Virgin of Guadalupe candle does have an eternal flame on top. Also, be sure to step inside the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center while you’re there!