by carrie
San Antonio is a well-known tourist destination all year round. We try to visit at least twice a year with friends and family. You will find historical sites such as the Alamo, the River Walk, as well as Hemisfar Park built in 1968 for the World Fair along with tons more. The city has a long history of cultural influences that you can still see today if you can look beyond your margarita glass.
The beautiful picture featured above is of the Arneson River Theater by Jim Nix at Nomadic Pursuits. Do take a look at his other pictures of San Antonio they are so pretty and really convey the dreaminess of the river walk.
For this San Antonio city guide I will focus on inside loop 410, Downtown, and the King William District + Mission Trail.
Where to Shop
Alamo Antique Mall
Lots of antiques for you to browse and if you see something you like you have can arrange for it to be shipped. Across the street you will find Twin Sister’s Bakery.
Antiquarian Book Mart
I love book stores and this is a good one where you will find rare and used books.
Dos Carolinas
This is the Perfect place for embroidered Mexican shirts that are made from natural fabrics.
Jive Refried
This boutique is owned by Local fashion designer Agosto Cuellar’s where you will find vintage clothing, accessories and his Agosto’s collection.
La Villita
This is San Antonio’s original neighborhood that is now a village of galleries and boutiques. The Fig Tree Restaurant is located here.
Melissa Guerra
Awesome kitchen supplies, home goods and accessories. A must see. You have to go see it for yourself and make sure to grab some of the amazing Aztec Chocolate.
Paris Hatters
This is a Texas Tradition. They’ve been in business since 1917 and have a famous clientele list from Pope John Paul II to B.B. King. They make custom hats that are priced low to high.
River Center Mall
This mall is on the River with all of your usual suspects for shopping. The main department store is Dillard’s. In the food court area that is linked to the river you will find live music being played on the steps.
Where to Eat
Classic Mexican Food
Casa Rio: Established in 1946, Casa Rio was the first restaurant on the river walk and has a lot to do with the popularity of the river and what it is today. The food is good and priced perfectly. The Margaritas are also a hit. They have plenty of outdoor seating for people watching. The salsa is made fresh every day.
Causal Pub + Fun Piano Bar
Durty Nelly’s Irish Pub: Great pub for beer (great selection!), wine and mixed nuts while you listen to the piano player. I think this place is so much fun just because of the spirit it has. The piano is always playing great songs that you can hum along to.
Terrace Dinning
Fig Tree Restaurant: This is one of my favorite fine dining restaurants. This house has lots of history and is in the original neighborhood of San Antonio. The terrace has a great view of the River Walk. Call for reservations and let them know you want to sit outside. See our TTL Restaurant Review.
Biscuits
Guenther House: This is a neat café that is located in the home of the Pioneer Flour founders. Of course flour is the main ingredient so doesn’t skip on the biscuits! Open for breakfast and lunch.
Italian Food
Il Sogno Osteria: Good place for Italian food in San Antonio. The price range is spendy at around $30, which is the only problem I have with this place especially if you are considering yourself an Osteria! It is owned by Chef Andrew Weissman and has options for breakfast, lunch and dinner.
Oldest Mexican Restaurant in San Antonio
La Fonda on Main: This is considered the oldest Mexican restaurant in San Antonio. You will find both Tex-Mex and Mexican specialties on the menu. It is located in the historic Monte Vista neighborhood. Chef Javier Flores creates also features daily specials in the style of old Mexico cuisine.
Belgian Food
La Frite Belgian Bistro: Surprise yes there is a Belgian Restaurant in San Antonio and it is really good. Get ready for the perfect mussels, fries, quiches, along with soups and salads.
Wine Bar with an Emphasis on Champagne
Zinc: Located in the heart of historic downtown San Antonio and is totally walk able from and to the river walk. I love the wine and food options here and always make sure to stop by when we are in town. They also have a private dining area in the wine cellar that is fun for bigger groups. My family of 12 had an amazing dinner here that was completely unique and affordable. They also have an extensive menu offering fine import cigars, vintage ports, and specialty cocktails.
A Texas Bistro
Boudros: Their table side guacamole is incredibly tasty along with their Margaritas. You will also find smoked shrimp enchiladas and blackened prime rib along with seafood straight from the Gulf. I have to be honest here though. The food is hit or miss. But when it is a hit it is really good. If you don’t want to chance it go for appetizers and margaritas at the beginning of your evening.
What to See
Museums
The McNay Art Museum was the original modern art museum established in Texas. The collection, buildings, and grounds are exceptional and a visit here is highly recommended.
Museo Alameda is Texas’s official Latino Museum that is located in the Alameda Theater. You will need to check with them on their current exhibits as they are always changing.
Museum Reach is one of the nation’s largest ecosystem restoration in an urban area. The San Antonio River North project developed walk able landscapes, art-filled niches, landscaped grottos. It has transformed the industrial area into a beautiful neighborhood that has residential, retail and office space centered near the San Antonio River.
The San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) is located in the former Lone Star Brewery along with the Reach Extension of the River Walk. The collections include Western Antiquities, Latin American, Asian, and Art as well as contemporary pieces.
The Witte Museum is all about Texas history, culture, and natural science that includes dinosaur skeletons and cave drawings along with wildlife dioramas.
Culture and Exploring
Downtown San Antonio Start early in the morning at the Alamo and work your way to the San Fernando Cathedral, the Bexar Courthouse and Main Plaza over to Market Square. You can also get a walking tour guide for the area.
Hemisfair Park
This park was built for the 1968 World’s Fair. You will find historic buildings, playground and the Institute of Texan Cultures and Instituto Cultural de Mexico. There is also the 750-foot tall Tower of the Americas (like the one in Seattle), which offers amazing views of San Antonio.
King William District
This area was settled by German immigrants and named after Prussia’s first king. It was the first neighborhood in Texas to be designated as an historic district. The architecture here is stunning and a must see. There are also a few B&B’s that you can opt to stay in.
The Mission Trail
This is a 16 mile round trip that visits the missions. Each mission is beautiful and worth seeing. The Mission Concepción contains the oldest stone church in Texas. You can drive to the missions or rent bikes. There are water stops along the way. Monte Vista This neighborhood is a treasure and has a variety of architectural styles among majestic oaks. It is a must see and you can also go to La Fonda for lunch while you are in the area!
The Pearl Brewery
operated as a brewery for over a hundred years and has been reinvented as a place for eating, entertaining and living. It was designed by local star Lake|Flato. On Saturday morning go check out the Farmer’s Market.
Aztec on the River
Great place to catch a cultural show in a theater/staged setting. They have a varity of shows you can see that are always changing so make sure to visit their web site for the latest.
Parks and Attractions
Brackenridge Park
I love their Japanese Tea Garden along with a zoo plus a miniature train that the kids will love.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Sea World San Antonio
For a theme park check out Fiesta Texas and get your roller coaster fix and cool your heels at Sea World with their water shows.
I hope you enjoy this city guide of San Antonio! If you have other suggestions leave me a comment. I am always looking for new adventures 
