Located on the southwestern border of San Antonio TX represents a colorful blend of Mexican and Texan culture. Its heritage is reflected in a variety of sights and experiences, from the Alamo to the River Walk.
With a subtropical climate, the city enjoys mild winters and hot summers. Major industries include tourism, healthcare/medical research, and business/financial services.
1. The Alamo
Located in downtown San Antonio, the Alamo is one of Texas’ most famous historic sites. Originally founded in the 18th century as a mission to convert the locals to Christianity, the Alamo became known for the battle that took place there in 1836 during the Texas Revolution. During this battle, approximately 200 Texans–including the folk heroes James Bowie and Davy Crockett–held off 2,500 Mexican troops for 13 days before all of them died. This battle inspired the phrase “Remember the Alamo!” which quickly became a rallying cry for Texans fighting for independence from Mexico.
Visiting the Alamo will give you a glimpse into the turbulent history of the state of Texas, which spanned over three centuries from Spanish rule to Mexican control and then, after annexation, United States territory.
2. The River Walk
Until the end of the nineteenth century, the San Antonio River was used for irrigation and for transporting goods. Then, a municipal water system replaced the river’s source of freshwater, lowering its water level and periodically flooding businesses along its banks.
Architect Robert Hugman’s vision was to create “a downtown waterway surrounded by commercial development.” He was encouraged by support from hotelier Jack White and obtained city assistance and federal funding through the Works Progress Administration.
The River Walk is constantly evolving, with new restaurants, hotels and attractions being added. It’s especially popular during the 10-day Fiesta San Antonio celebration and on a San Antonio river cruise.
3. The San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo
One of the largest and most prestigious rodeos in the United States, the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo attracts millions of visitors to the city each year. The event takes place over two weeks each February and includes a variety of entertainment, livestock competitions, and agricultural shows.
The calf scramble and shooting events are especially fun for kids, while the Agricultural Mechanicals competition allows you to learn about equipment like tractors and engines. You can also see incredible western-themed artwork completed by local youth in the Western Art competition.
The event is a great way to experience the best of Texas culture and understand how agriculture directly impacts our lives. As they say, everything is bigger in Texas.
4. The Alamo Missions National Historical Park
The Alamo is the best-known of the five missions in this park and the site of a famous battle during the Texas Revolution. The battle lasted from February 23rd to March 6th 1836, and was a key event in the fight for Texas independence.
The park has an interesting Living History Encampment that provides hands-on demonstrations of daily life during the time of the Texas Revolution, including weaponry, cooking, and leather work. You can also visit the restored grist mill, powered by water diverted from historic acequias.
You can explore the mission sites on foot by following the Missions Trail, driving a vehicle, or joining a tour. Be aware that the sites can be very hot in summer, so we’d recommend walking only if you are used to hot weather and well-hydrated.
5. The San Antonio Museum of Art
The San Antonio Museum of Art enriches lives by collecting, preserving, and exhibiting significant works of art representing a wide range of world cultures in accordance with the highest professional standards. Its mission is to provide transformational experiences and strengthen our shared understanding of humanity through art.
The museum is home to an impressive collection of artworks that span 5,000 years of history. The collection includes paintings and sculptures from various cultures. It also features a large collection of Latin American art.
The museum hosts a variety of community events throughout the year. These include themed gallery tours, kids’ workshops and scholarly symposia.
6. The Alamo Plaza
The City of San Antonio has a plan to reimagine Alamo Plaza, the site where legendary battle for Texas independence took place. But the process has become a bitterly partisan affair that’s been sparked by controversy over the future of the iconic shrine and its surrounding historic buildings.
The plan calls for the Woolworth and Crockett blocks–which currently house kitschy tourist diversions such as a Ripley’s-branded walk-through haunted house–to be renovated and turned into an exhibition hall and museum. And the Cenotaph, which honors the fallen Alamo defenders, will be relocated to a spot a few hundred feet south. But critics say the move will negate the spirit of the place.
