Adventure: Strollin' in San Antonio

Recently we went on our family road trip through Texas, and our first stop was sweet little San Antonio. When I was younger, my family lived on Fort Sam Houston, and I remember our strolls on the Riverwalk and always having the best Tex-Mex food. I truly believe one of the reasons I am a Spanish teacher today, is because of the influence of the people and "the ways" of San Antonio.

I wanted to go back to this area so I could see it now through older eyes, and enjoy it with my husband and daughter. Here I lay out the sights, sounds and tastes that San Antonio has to offer, and don't forget to check out our quick tips at the bottom of this post.

Sights and Sounds of San Antonio

There is more to San Antonio than just the downtown area, but there is much to see and experience within this section of town. One thing you cannot miss, is the San Fernando Cathedral in the Main Plaza. This Cathedral has stood the test of time and is 281 years old, making it the oldest church in the Texas area. During the daytime, go inside and check out the marble memorial that holds the remains of James Bowie, William Travis, and Davy Crockett. When you step inside, pay your respects and light a candle if that is your choice, and slip into a pew to admire this beautiful Cathedral while listening to a sermon in Spanish and English. Return back to the San Fernando Cathedral a little before 9 pm for a free light show. The show is 20 minutes of lasers and lights that projects images onto the facade of the church. The sounds and sights of this show create pictures like serapes, flags, images of war, flood waters and rain. These images come together to tell the history of the San Antonio area and the Cathedral over the years. 

Taking a walk along the Riverwalk is an absolute no brainer when coming to this area. This 15 mile Riverwalk is known as the "American Venice" and is purely romantic. Escape the hustle from the main streets of the city, by going down a few steps to the picturesque Riverwalk area. Hop along one of the Go Rio boats that take you on a narrated tour of the Riverwalk or also use them as a shuttle to get to certain points on the river (military discounts are offered).

While walking along the Riverwalk, you will come to a set of Spanish mosaic style stairs that lead you to La Villita. La Villita is a historic area of buildings that are as old as the San Fernando Cathedral. These Spanish style buildings have been restored and house artisans, eateries, coffee shops, boutiques, and a plaza area that hosts many fiestas and events, including the annual Dia de Los Muertos Festival.

Remember the Alamo is printed on every t-shirt in all the tourist shops, and that's because the old mission sits on the other end of the Riverwalk on Alamo Plaza. This mission was later used as a military fort when a battle broke out between Mexican troops and the Texians of the area. The story of the 13 day battle is told within the walls of the Alamo and through its gardens. Explore the four acres it sits on to see fountains, beautiful cacti, musket firings and demonstrations or check out a guided tour. Entrance to the Alamo is free unless you would like a guided tour (military and veterans are free).

A few minutes from downtown on Commerce Street, is an area called El Mercado or the Historic Market Square. This area is so good for the soul! El Mercado is the largest Mexican market in the United States. The streets are lined with papel picado, sombreros hanging in the trees, and authentic churros are freshly being made at little stands. Over 32 shops are available along two different streets, and there are three different restaurants you can choose from. The best day we had while in San Antonio was spent in this area.

           

It is said that wherever you are in San Antonio, you are able to get glimpses of The Tower of Americas. This observation tower stands above the city at 750 feet high with a viewing deck at the top. The campus of this Tower is worth visiting as well, with its many fountains and grassy areas for relaxing. Head into the building that houses the glass elevator, that will take you to the tippy top for a perfect view of the city and beyond.

Tastes of San Antonio

To say that there are plenty of food options in this area is an understatement. There are restaurants everywhere, some you recognize and some you do not. These restaurants were ones on our list.

• Alex's Tacos: About 40 minutes outside of San Antonio is a very small area of town called Seguin. There is a tiny building with a to-go station on one side, and a small red door on the other. Names of traditional Mexican foods cover the outside walls and windows of the building, its ok, GO INSIDE. Inside they served the best tacos, with homemade tortillas that were warm thick. They were so good we placed another taco order before we could even finish the first ones. This would be a good place to check out when you are arriving or leaving San Antonio.

• The snack stand outside of San Fernando: If you are looking for paletas or a Mexican treat like the mangoalada (frozen mango with chili sauce) come here.

• La Villita Cafe: A small cafe that is well known by the locals, is located in the historic district of La Villita. They have daily specials, but the day we were there, we had the best Margherita Pizza (with an egg on top). It was so fresh and satisfying, we were literally giving the chef a high five when he came by our table. 

• Republic of Texas: This restaurant is on the Riverwalk and is next door to the popular restaurant Casa Rio. I do not suggest trying to get into Casa Rio at "prime time dinner time", because you will have quite the wait. This is what happened to us, and with a hangry mama and toddler...that just wont do. We walked right next door to the Republic of Texas. Their menu offered anything from burgers, to Tex-Mex and food for the babes. It was satisfying, but here is a suggestion. Everyone wants to eat right next to the water, and you will get your chance! You will be so googly eyed and snapping pictures of the water, the tour boats, and the little ducks, that you will be happy with wherever you choose to eat. Many of the restaurants on the Riverwalk will offer decent to very good food, the absolute best hospitable service, and a view that leaves you full of gratitude. I am sure there are many places out there that are an exception to this rule, but this was our dining experience. 

• Churros stand at El Mercado: This churros are made fresh right in front of you. I had never seen them made fresh before, but these were the best I've ever had.

• Mi Tierra: I saved the absolute best for last. If you were to ask me, "Brooke, I can only go to one restaurant. Where should I go?". You can bet I will say this place. When I say that I teared up in this restaurant, I am not being dramatic, nor am I joking. You see this place was everything for someone who loves the Hispanic culture. From the decor, to the panaderia up front, to the nuns who were selling bracelets in the lobby, and the older gentlemen of the marachis in their charros. Dia de Los Muertos is my absolute favorite Hispanic holiday, and this place had ofrendas that were so beautifully done. So I was already emotional about the environment, and then the food... it was everything. The tortillas were authentic. The caldo de pollo was divine. The tres leches cake on the menu was calling my name. Everything about this place was absolute perfection, guys. You most go there and tell me what you think. The best part about this place is its open 24 hours a day. That's right...go in for breakfast, lunch or dinner. So much love for this place.

           

                     

San Antonio is good for the heart and soul. What is your favorite adventure in San Antonio?

T+G's Quick Tips and Tricks for San Antonio

• Look at a map of the Riverwalk before you actually start walking. There are two different loops, so make sure you start walking in the right direction.

• Be prepared for all out sunshine (which makes it a little steamy by the water) or an occasional pop up shower.

• The locals are extremely kind and helpful. Just ask for help with directions, your feet will thank you.

• Scooters from Uber and other companies are available for pick up all along the streets of downtown San Antonio.

• If you have a child with you, you have room along the Riverwalk for a stroller, but I would suggest an umbrella stroller. Even consider an Ergo or hiking backpack, because there are many sets of stairs where lifting the stroller is necessary. Not difficult just something to be mindful of.

• If you are not eating an early dinner, expect there to be wait times to be at least 30 minutes for dinner on the Riverwalk.

• Do not leave San Antonio without seeing the light show at San Fernando. Call the church during the day to get updated information and days for the show.