San Antonio Travel Guide
This week, I was given the opportunity to attend a work conference in San Antonio, Texas. Visiting Texas is something that JD and I have been meaning to cross off of our travel bucket list for years, so I was thrilled when I found out we could finally go!
I am not a travel guru by any means, but with the exception of New York City, San Antonio is one of the most culturally dynamic cities I have had the chance to visit. Spend a few hours on the River Walk, and you’ll notice a diverse population and a colorful city full of Mexican, German, Irish, and Czechoslovakian influence.
Although we spent almost a week in San Antonio, I still feel like we will be back to explore more of what the city had to offer. There is so much old and new to see and this city has so much life you can practically feel its pulse. For my San Antonio travel guide, I will combine my recommendations into a 3 day weekend, to make it easy, and add on as needed!
Weekend Travel Guide to San Antonio, Texas
Where to Stay:
Since I went for work, we stayed in a chain hotel that was approved by the conference I was attending. However, JD and I had the opportunity to see some cute boutique hotels that are along the river walk.
1 // Hotel Emma – Hands down the best hotel in San Antonio. All of our Uber drivers suggested that we just go in to look at it, and it did not disappoint. Hotel Emma is a historical hotel, that used to be home to a 19th century brewhouse. It boasts a modern industrial feel, while still preserving it’s important history. The hotel bar is one of the most exquisite that I have seen. Highly recommend stopping here for a drink, even if you don’t book a room!
2 // Hotel Havana – This is one stop we didn’t have time to make, but wish we could have. Hotel Havana is another beautiful boutique hotel situated on the river walk. It’s home to Ocho, a gorgeous restaurant situated in a glass conservatory. Just check it out on the website, and admire it’s beauty.
3 // There are also several chain hotels on the river walk that are easy walking distance from everything that San Antonio has to offer. You can’t go wrong!
Day 1: Explore the River Walk and The Pearl
Start your day by exploring the River Walk. The city of San Antonio is build around the San Antonio River, and the river walk is a 15 mile long stretch of shops, restaurants, and historical sites. Take a boat ride on Go Rio, a water taxi/boat tour, and learn more about the city’s history!
While on the River Walk, stop into the Iron Cactus for lunch. This restaurant serves up delicious contemporary Mexican dishes, and is named one of the Top 10 tequila bars in the nation! The best margarita I ever had in my life was from this restaurant!
In the afternoon, take an Uber further down the River Walk and explore The Pearl. This was my favorite part of our trip! The Pearl is one of the most interesting spaces I have ever been. The area is built around Pearl Brewing, an old brew house that used to be the largest brewery in Texas, before the Prohibition. Sadly, it shut down in 2001, but the city saw it as an opportunity to build up the area and transform it into one of the top culinary destinations (it’s even home to the third culinary institute!). You’ll want to spend the whole afternoon exploring the restaurants, food carts, parks, and shops located at The Pearl. If you have children, there is a beautiful park area with splash pads to keep those kiddos busy! Grab a drink a Hotel Emma, and stop at one of the 17 restaurants or food hall for dinner!
Day 2: Go on a mini Brewery Tour and visit El Mercado
Spend the late morning and early afternoon exploring the Historic Market Square, El Mercado. It is known to be the largest Mexican market outside of Mexico. There is so much vibrant culture and color throughout the market, and often live music! Stay for a margarita, and have lunch a Mi Terra, a favorite of locals and tourists! Seriously, Mi Terra was on every must-do list!
After you filled up on food, take your time and relax at some breweries around downtown. JD tried Kunstler Brewing and Blue Star Brewing. Just a tip for my northeast friends, you won’t find any New England IPA’s here! Try something new! Head back to the hotel to relax by the pool or go for a stroll outside before dinner.
For dinner, wrap up your bar tour at the Esquire Tavern. The Esquire is the river walks oldest bar, and boasts a 100 foot wood bar! The largest in Texas! I recommend trying one of their hand crafted cocktails, they are delicious. If you are into trying new foods, get their famous fried bologna sandwich. Sounds crazy, but it WORKS.
Day 3: Be a Tourist.
By now, you have immersed yourself in a good amount of San Antonio culture. On your last day, round out your trip by visiting some tourist attractions and learning more about the history of San Antonio.
I recommend starting your morning at The Alamo, a must do in San Antonio. The Alamo is the most historical site in the city. The whole tour will take you about 30-45 minutes, and it’s free!
After going on your mission, head to either the San Antonio Zoo or the San Antonio Botanical Gardens, depending on what you prefer! We opted for the zoo and it was so fun! A great option for children.
Next, visit the Japanese Tea Garden, it’s free! Walk through lush gardens and waterfalls that were restored by the San Antonio Parks Foundation. It is such a unique site, you won’t want to miss it!
Down the street from the Japanese Tea Garden is Augie’s BBQ. Stop there after your long morning and fill up on smoked pulled pork and authentic BBQ! The staff at this kitchen are SO KIND. Everything is affordable, and will certainly fill you up after a long day of walking!
Spend the rest of your evening relaxing, on the river walk, or with some of the additional recommendations below!
Places on Our List we Missed
These spots came highly recommended, but sadly we didn’t have enough time!
Rosario’s – Award winning Mexican Cuisine
Alamo Beer Company – Large beer hall, located by the Alamo!
There are also several historical sites and museums we didn’t have time for!
If you liked this check out // A Grown-Up’s Guide to Disney World
xo, Kristen
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