I’m not going to lie to you, I had no idea what to expect with San Antonio. I’ve been to Texas more times than I can count at this point, but the main reason I visit is to see my friends in Houston. It was only in the past year that I’ve branched out and visited Austin, and now San Antonio. While Houston has its charms in that there are so many people I love there, the city itself is clean and new and planned and, well… not all that special, to be honest.
San Antonio is charming, gorgeous, historical, slightly tackily-touristy (I could see a wax museum from my hotel), walkable, delicious and fun all rolled in to one. Even though I was really only there for one full day, we packed a lot in and were able to see a ton. While I’m sure there’s plenty I’m missing, I was told be one of the (many) street information guys that we hit the best places.
The Alamo. OK, embarrassing story. I have several friends who take great pleasure in saying things like, “Remember the Alamo” while toasting their Lonestar Beers, but, well, I never really knew the story behind it. I knew The Alamo is significant in Texas (and therefore American) history, but I didn’t really fully understand it. Well, let’s be real here, I still don’t fully understand it.. People were more reverent there than people typically are at Gettysburg. But, it was cool to see, and it’s free to walk through, so it’s definitely a must. Also, their over-priced gift shop is legit. I didn’t buy anything, but there were many things there that looked quite cool.
Menger Hotel: Major, major wow. The hotel is 160 years old, gorgeous, meticulously maintained and historical. The rooms are nothing all that special, but I like that they have maintained the historical charm. Hotel rooms nowadays are often unnecessarily large, and I’m glad The Menger hasn’t totally sold out and revamped to keep up with modern standards. I actually thought my room was perfect.
When I checked in to the Menger, though, I saw a sign in the lobby that mentioned that The Menger is the “most haunted hotel in Texas.” To say this kind of freaked me out would be an understatement. In fact, I’m actually writing this in my hotel room at the Menger because I’m too awake to fall asleep, and when I turn the lights off, I want to go right to sleep. I do believe in spooks, I do I do…
River Walk: I had no idea what to expect when I heard so many people talk about the River Walk, and I’m sure I’ll still have a tough time explaining it. Think the Mexico ride at Epcot meets some really fancy garden… OK, that definitely doesn’t work. Anyway, there’s a river (obviously), but it looks fake, and there are flat boats that look like giant bumper boats that go through it. Anyway, just take my word for it that it’s cool. There are several restaurants along the River Walk and the whole scene comes alive at night. There are also city guides all over the River Walk who are awesome and are a wealth of information. Definitely talk to them.
La Villita: This “little village” is along the River Walk and is an artist’s colony! There were so many cool galleries and shops and it’s all housed in old buildings that are oh-so charming.
Market Square: I do love me a good deal, and Market Square certainly does not disappoint. Think every kitschy Mexican souvenir you can imagine at Mexican prices in USD. I’m talking a $5 colorful parrot that would easily sell for $40 in Epcot Mexico (can you tell Disney is on my mind these days?). I also got two big bottles of Mexican vanilla (which is delicious) for $5 each. Oh, and the blouse? $23. Love.
Food: We unfortunately weren’t in San Antonio for an abundance of time, and one of the dinners out was kind of a bust, so here are only two recommendations.. They’re good recommendations, though!
- The Esquire: This place is the COOLEST. The Esquire opened in 1933 right after Prohibition and is dark (hence no pictures), masculine, and oh-so chic. The bar is carved oak and gorgeous and the food is amazing. I had the Frito pie (yummm) and my boss had a burger, which came with house-made ketchup. Yes, please!
- Rio Rio: This offers a view of the River Walk and is insanely good Tex-Mex. I highly recommend the queso. The enchiladas were great too. I do love me some Tex Mex, and this certainly did not disappoint. When I went to link this, I saw that they have horrible ratings on Yelp, and I have no clue why. This place was delicious and clean and well-run.. Don’t listen to Yelp on this one.
I’m so thankful for such a great whirlwind trip! San Antonio is a great city and I highly recommend a visit!