San Antonio, TX Summary

photo by gusto

Although it’s known for the Alamo, there is much more to San Antonio than historic sites. Locals would tell you that there are several other attractions that should make an appearance on your itinerary. Places like the River Walk, King William Historic District, SeaWorld and HemisFair urban park are great ways to unwind beneath the warm Texas sun. The River Walk has a long history, starting with Spanish explorers who used the waterway to provide water to their missions in the area. Throughout its history, the river has flooded its banks several times. After one flood, an architect proposed a plan to recreate Venice, Italy, in Texas – and this vision lives on today. The missions remain popular tourist attractions, and as a center of dining, shopping, boat rides, walkways, and residences, the River Walk is truly a sight to behold.

Another area of historical significance is the King William Historic District. Located on the east side of the San Antonio River, it’s like stepping back in time. The architecture varies from Greek Revival to Victorian to Italianate and features two homes that are open to the public – the Guenther House and the Edward Steves Homestead. The district is located on land that once belonged to the Alamo. In honor of its colorful history, the city created the HemisFair urban park in 1968 to commemorate its 250th anniversary. It features a wood and sand playground, 750-foot tall Tower of the Americas, and a water garden. Water-lovers can check out the new SeaWorld San Antonio as well, for an up-close and personal look at marine life.