A Traveler's Guide to San Antonio
Today, we’re covering one of our most-visited cities: San Antonio. It’s the second-largest city in Texas with a population of about 1.5 million people. This city offers plenty of history, dining and entertainment, and shopping — so you’re sure to find something exciting to fill your free time on a business trip or plan a full vacation of exploration.
Check out some of the top places to check out in San Antonio below:
What to do and see
Natural Bridge Caverns
See San Antonio’s beautiful underground at Natural Bridge Caverns. Discovered in 1960 by four college students, visitors love the daily guided tours through this stunning underground oasis.
The River Walk
San Antonio’s River Walk, also known as the Paseo Del Rio, is one of the city’s most popular attractions. Lined with shops, bars, and restaurants, the River Walk is a delight to wander, explore, and enjoy. Consider seeing this Texas highlight from a different angle - and take a river cruise.
The Witte Museum
The Witte Museum is a must-see if you want to learn about the nature, science, and culture of Texas. Almost 100 years old, it is one of the most visited attractions in San Antonio.
The Alamo
Get over 300 years of history at The Alamo. This famous American landmark is thought to be best enjoyed via a tour from one of the many local operators. Entrance is free. Tours are an additional fee.
Magicians Agency Theatre
Watch and learn how to do magic at the Magicians Agency Theatre. Go to enjoy a family-friendly hour of magical entertainment, and then stay after the show for a 40-minute magic lesson.
Where to eat and drink
Pollos Asados Los Nortenos
It is hard to read about the best restaurants in San Antonio without reading about Pollos Asados Los Nortenos. A no frills option for lunch or dinner, get their locally-famous roasted chicken with some of their delicious sides. Go early. Lines are known to be long.
Savor at The Culinary Institute
Savor is not your average dining experience. Here everything is crafted by students from The Culinary Institute of America under the supervision of professional chefs. The creative and seasonal dishes are all prepared from local ingredients and farmers.
Clementine
Husband and wife team John and Elise Russ are at the helm of this new finer-dining experience in San Antonio. Choose Clementine’s “Feed Me” option and have the chef create a surprise culinary experience from the best in local and seasonal flavors. Diverse and delicious ala carte menu also available.
The Esquire
The list is long for what The Esquire is known for – a nomination for a James Beard award, the longest wooden bar top in Texas, and some of the best drinks in San Antonio. With a 4.4-star rating from 2300+ Google reviews, it seems a visit to The Esquire is a must-do for any visitor.
Where to shop
The Brick at the Blue Star
This is not your average shopping experience. Open Sunday from 12 – 5, at The Brick at Blue Star you will find unique goods and handcrafted gifts. Vendors range from jewelry, soaps, and candles to different and delicious food and treats. Vendors change weekly.
River Center
Located right on San Antonio’s well-known river walk, River Center is where you go for a different mall experience. With over 100 retailers, an IMAX theatre, an AMC theatre, and a 1000-room Marriott, there is so much to do at River Center - you might not ever leave.
King William Historic District
If walking cute old neighborhoods and visiting local shops is more your speed check out the King William Historic District and South Alamo Street for unique stores, breweries, and cafes.
Where to relax
Kayak at Confluence Park
Get a little break from the city life and see San Antonio from the water. Rent a kayak for a few hours or the day, and enjoy paddling and floating through a wonderful slice of the city.
Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden is a lesser known San Antonio attraction and will give visitors a completely different perspective of the city. Lose track of time as you wander the grounds, visit the waterfall, learn about its varied history, and enjoy a snack or meal at the Jingu House Café. Entrance is free.
Hiatus Spa
Consistently rated one of the best spas in San Antonio, go to Hiatus Spa for a massage, all of your facial and skin care needs, or for a relaxing manicure and pedicure.
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