San Antonio, Texas is the original cowboy frontier of North America and although the city is modern and vibrant the main attractions are rooted in it's wild beginnings.
Things to See and Do
Number One on most visitor's to-do lists is the Alamo. This surprisingly small18th century church is where Davy Crockett and his band of a little under 200 men took their last stand for Texan independence against the Mexican Army. A symbol of US pride, this humble mission has been lovingly restores and is wildly popular with tourists. Tours operate every day except Christmas and New Years Day offering the history of Crockett's final battle as well as a potted synopsis of the history of the fight for the state's independence.
Another historical sight in the same vein is the Mission San Jose. Although lacking a bloody history like the Alamo, the mission is interesting for its architecture (it was built in 1720) and its rose windows. Sunday is a good day to visit, as the church has the unusual presence of a mariachi band during mass.
Outdoor Attractions
The Riverwalk is a 30 minute stroll through colorful San Antonio and is also deservedly high on most tourist itineraries. As well getting a few as snippets of local history, the walk is a great way to become acquainted with modern San Antonio and all it has to offer. The Riverwalk begins at the RiverCenter Mall, and there are several each day.
The largest underground attraction in Texas is the Natural Bridge Caverns, which is a naturally formed series of caverns, the largest of which is roughly the size of a football field. Although the caverns are large, the roof is low, so anyone expecting an awe-inspiring sight will be disappointed, although climbing the Watchtower (part of the above-ground park) provides plenty of excitement (not recommended for anyone afraid of heights).
Round out the cultural tour with a visit to the San Antonio Museum of Art, which has extensive collections from Egypt, Africa and Asia as well as being the home of the most extensive collection of Latin art on the planet.
End the weekend with an hour in the Japanese Tea Gardens. This free-entry public space is designed as a semi-Zen garden and the tranquil paths and goldfish ponds are are good place to steal a few quiet moments.
Off the Beaten Path
Getting off the beaten track in San Antonio is pretty easy. A visit to the Toilet Seat Museum (owned and run by, of course, a former plumber, who has set up the museum in his garage) is good for a giggle as visitors are guided through the history of plumbing via displays of toilet seats and explanations of their place in the evolution of civilized culture. Opening hours vary according to whether the curator Barney Smith is home, and can be bothered with visitors.
The San Antonio Cultural Arts Mural Tour is an open-air walk through the streets of San Antonio to take in the murals and graffiti art of the city. Graffiti is an under-rated genre and the talent displayed in San Antonio is among the world's best. Tours are by appointment only and you will be rubbing elbows with locals as this tour is one of the city's secrets. Contact Manuel Castillo on This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it to arrange a walk.
Hotels
There are cheap accommodation options in and around San Antonio, with hostel bunks for around $20 per night, or motel rooms just out of town for an average $60 per night. To be in the middle of the action, a room at the Drury Plaza Hotel Riverwalk will set you back between $150 and $200 a night.
Use the Hotelsio Rate Finder on the left to find cheap hotels in San Antonio, Texas.
(Photo:©iStockPhoto.com/Tashka)
