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Family Friendly
Destination: San Antonio, TX
Stroll down the Alamo or take a ride on a gondola on the Riverwalk. Need more excitement Then visit Sea World San Antonio or Six Flags Fiesta Texas. In San Antonio, there's so much to do in so little time.
FAMILY FRIENDLY AMENITIES:
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15 Things to Do | Activities | Day Trips
15 Things to Do in San Antonio, Texas
Welcome to San Antonio, one of America’s most diverse and historically rich cities. The city’s lifeblood, the San Antonio River, pushes out of the ground as springs north of downtown, then winds its way south—through town, and through stories rich with its history. It’s destination? The Gulf of Mexico.
Few cities have the varied breadth of influences shaping the historic record like San Antonio has. The Hispanic influence is obvious; the German, unexpected but obvious too. It’s home of the Alamo, the RiverWalk, and five spectacular Spanish Missions. It’s energized by famous attractions, country music, cowboys and ranchers. Margaritas and Tejano music have enticed generations. Texas Hill Country has literally delivered heroes to the American public stage. It’s a place of mystery, natural beauty and generous hospitality. Take some time; visit the Hills and/or head for the Gulf in order to absorb the grandeur of the area as evidenced in it’s many historic sites, its foods and its enticing cultural heritage and customs.
Activities in San Antonio, TX
ADVENTURE
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
Located just 15 minutes from downtown San Antonio at I-10 West & Loop 1604. Take exit 555 (www.sixflags.com/fiestaTexas; 800-473-4378) Families, you know the drill here. In fact you might even be in San Antonio just to go to Six Flags! Featuring thrill rides, kids rides, family rides and a water park this is a fabulous destination for non-stop fun and entertainment. You already know it’s not a cheap proposition for a big family, and that there will be big crowds, so here’s some hints to help you successfully navigate the day.
- Purchase tickets online! You can print them too, IN ADVANCE—and save about 30% and the hassle of standing in yet another line.
- Get an edge on the crowds and standing in line by arriving to the Park early and securing a Flash Pass, Flag’s ride reservation system holds your place in line on their most popular attractions so visitors can make the most of their time in the Park. However, there is only a limited number available for purchase each day—at Flash Pass Booth.
- For further discounts, call for park information and show schedules before your visit— 210- 697-5050. Park attendance is lightest weekdays during the summer and any regular operating day during the months of April, May, September and October.
- Strollers, wheelchairs or electronic convenience vehicles are rented, first-come, first served. So if you’re interested, the earlier you arrive at the Park the better.
- Review the Park map with your family so you all get a feel for the layout. Start at attractions of interest furthest from the Entrance Gate and work backgrounds. Agree on a location and time to meet if separated. This is a big place, with lots of distractions, so do everything possible to avoid anyone getting lost.
- Naturally, dress for the weather. Mornings and evenings can be cool and weather can change throughout the day.
Schlitterbahn
It’s hot, it’s humid, and you want to play outside with your family without melting? Schlitterbahn is your remedy. This Golden Ticket award-winning water park has pulled out all the stops in wet, wild and wonderful family entertainment. Some claim it’s the best water park in the country. Talk about cool.
For starters there are four levels of thrill rides so there’s something for everyone’s comfort level. There are shallow water, passive or low speed activities for infants and toddlers (with shaded areas for adults to watch and visit), and then moderate rides for amateurs and beginner swimmers—perfect for pre-teens. Stronger swimmers look for Orange Triangles, indicating more aggressive action rides and the strongest swimmers, in good physical condition, can challenge the Red Diamond rides braving heights, high speeds and enclosed tunnels. For example, there are three rides in the Park utilizing priority “Master Blaster” technology, propelling riders uphill and down. For example, from the Dragon Blaster start platform, water jets “take over,” twisting and turning riders before they plunge down a waterfall! Not quite that brave or patient with lines? There are plenty of “No Wait” activities that allow guests to join in the fun at any time and participate for as long as they wish. From hot tubs to hot dogs, from hot thrills enjoyed by “hot doggers,” Schlitterbahn has it going on. The best advice is to plan your trip in advance. This place is by far too complicated to navigate without a game plan. Please visit the website to buy tickets, to get a site map and to check out seasonal hours and pricing. You can down load a brochure too!
(www.schlitterbahn.com; 830-625-2351; 381 E. Austin Street, New Braunfels, TX 78130)
SeaWorld San Antonio
SeaWorld in San Antonio claims to be the world's largest marine-life adventure park. Well it’s this AND a family entertainment showplace. Located in San Antonio’s Westover Hills area, and part of the renowned SeaWorld chain, the Park is owned by Busch Entertainment Corporation, a subsidiary of Anheuser-Busch, Inc. Under Busch management the park has been expanded to include thrill rides and a water park while maintaining a robust schedule of innovative shows, experiential exhibits and educational programs. Buy tickets online; with your Pay Once, Visit Twice Pass! Opening in 2007 “Believe” is the newest Shamu musical extravaganza showcasing an unbelievable synchronicity between the whales and their trainers—and it all takes place in the brand-new Shamu Stadium. Marvel at the athleticism of stunt water skiers during the Rockin' Ski Party show or take in Viva—where high divers, aerialists and synchronized swimmers put on a dazzling performance featuring dolphins and beluga whales.
The SeaWorld entertainment also includes thrilling exhibits and thrill. Stroll around. You’ll see the Park’s nicely designed aviary and the Budweiser Clydesdales. Chill out walking “arctic wilderness” at the Penguin Encounter (especially tantalizing on a hot day), or observe exotic sea creatures at The Coral Reef.
Wait, there’s more. Ride, if you dare, the Great White (an inverted coaster), Rio Loca (a rafting ride) and a “hyper coaster” which travels 65mph called The Steel Eel. Youngsters will love tamer activities like the Jumpin’ Jungle or riding a miniature Ferris wheel. If this isn’t enough there’s midway games, a 4D theatre and, of course, Lost Lagoon, a water park with it’s own delightful array of lagoons, rides and wave pools.
Come to think of it, that Pay Once, Visit Twice ticket may come in handy!
There’s a huge laundry list of travel and visiting tips from SeaWorld Insiders on line, but let’s review a few key points for your advance consideration.
- Immediately upon arrival at SeaWorld check the various animal feeding schedules so, if you actually want to feed the dolphins and sea lions by hand, you can plan be there early. That’s what it takes. Or, take an Up Close tour, and get “back stage” with the trainers and handlers. (Here it’s suggested you buy tickets on line in advance or head straight for the tour desk inside the front gate when you arrive. Seats are limited.)
- As temperatures rise, the “coolest” places to be in the Park are the Shamu Theater, the Penguin Encounter® and the Nautilus Amphitheater.
- The best chance you’ll have to “step right up” and eat at the food outlets and restaurants is during the popular shows. Especially in the busier months.
- At shows, choose your seats wisely and in advance. Warning: you will get soaked if you sit in the front row at Journey to Atlantis! A waterproof camera is a brilliant idea; this way you won’t worry about ruining an expensive camera. Carry a thin, lightweight parka to keep you dry during the shows; they fold easily and can also be used as a pillow when you’re resting in one of SeaWorld’s park-like shady alcoves.
- Wear weather-appropriate clothing and comfy shoes; bring a hat, sunglasses and waterproof sunscreen.
- Review the Park map in advance and pre-arrange a time and place to meet should you become separated.
(http://www.seaworld.com; 800-700-7786; 10500 SeaWorld Drive, San Antonio, TX 78251)
CULTURE/HISTORY
So much is written about the Alamo and the region’s Spanish missions that it would take years of mind and body exploration to fully embrace all the factors that enliven a visit to San Antonio. Many descendants of the amalgamated Spanish, Mexican and Native American bloodlines still call San Antonio Home. San Antonio grew up around five Spanish missions, established along the San Antonio River in the early 1700s. Over 300 years after their founding, the missions remain beautifully preserved in San Antonio Missions National Historic Park administered by the National Park Service. A fifth, Mission San Antonio de Valero, known to Texans as the Alamo, is not part of the Park but in nearby the other missions.
The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
No visit to San Antonio would be “complete” without at least a cursory visit to the National Historic Park visitor center and the Alamo. The kids are going to love this excursion. The Visitor Center is located at the entrance to Mission San José. Here you can get an orientation to the Park and the Missions. Watch the historical perspective of the Texas Missions presented in the Park’s documentary film, Gente de Razón. Plan to spend at least 2 hours here, more if you want to see all the missions. Plan to take an hour-long tour, see the film, and browse the bookstore packed with handsome coffee table books and historic accounts of Texas history. And, if you want to pack a lot of sight seeing into one or two days, you can visit a galaxy of other San Antonio attractions right from here. Except for Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day, the Visitor Center is open daily from 9-5pm. The Visitor Center is near the intersection of Roosevelt Ave. & New Napier Ave. Travel south on South St. Mary’s Street. Approximately one mile south of downtown, after passing beneath railroad tracks, South St. Mary’s becomes Roosevelt Ave. Continue on Roosevelt 4 miles, to a drive-in theater on your left, followed by a large stone structure: Mission San José. At the first stop light beyond the mission turn left onto New Napier Ave. Follow the signs into our parking lot or bus lanes, as appropriate.
The public transportation system in San Antonio is VIA. Bus 42 from downtown will bring you to Mission San José and within two blocks of Mission Concepción. No buses available to San Juan and Espada, however.
The Spanish colonization interests served as the motivate to legitimize Spanish claims to large pieces of “newly discovered” North American land by “assimilating” its peoples. To understand the history and dynamics of this strategy, it is important to keep several key “shaping” factors in mind: the people, the church, farming, ranching and caminos reals (Spanish road ways and trade routes, emerging from Mexico). The collection of Spanish frontier missions in and around San Antonio was part of the larger colonization and conversion plan that unfolded across the Southwest in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. The Spanish monarchs granted religious orders of the Catholic Church permission to found mission communities in the New World. The assumption: native converts would, become loyal to the Crown and beneficial to Spain’s expansion. The missions you’ll visit here are still active Catholic parishes; in fact, you can even go to a Mariachi Mass on Sundays at Mission San Jose. Church and state objectives were symbiotic, explaining the building of Missions and Presidios close to each other. Settlement was escalated by an extensive 2,500 mile Spanish road system (following ancient Native American trade routes) that facilitated settlers, missionaries and solders entry into new territories. This in turn spawned more trails and outposts. El Camino Real de los Tejas connected Spanish missions and posts from Mexico City to a site in northwestern Louisiana—Los Adaes, which was the first capital of the Texas province. The road’s development had irreversible impacts on the native people of Texas and Louisiana—by linking unconnected cultural and linguistic groups, often causing resistance and unrest. By 1718 the colonization movement had reached the San Antonio River. A Spanish presidio, San Antonio de Béxar, was founded and named. Then a failed mission from the province of Coahuila, Mexico relocated to the San Antonio River area as well; it was called Mission San Antonio de Valero. El Camino Real de los Tejas encouraged exploration and settlement as well as the movement of cattle and livestock. Ranching was destined to become a prevailing theme in Texas history and commerce. The road also provided Spanish, French, Mexican, Republic of Texas armies and Mexican immigrants access to the region—which ultimately fed discontent and energized Mexican Revolution. www.nps.gov/saan
The Alamo—Mission San Antonio De Valero
From 1718 through the 1760’s the mission flourished but by 1793 the mission was abandoned and it’s archives moved. As you would expect, within ten years the compound was occupied by a company of Spanish soldiers from Alamo de Parras (in the modern-day Mexican state of Coahuila)—perhaps explaining the name “Alamo?” Mexican forces occupied the site almost continuously from the turn of the century until December 1835. During the Texas Revolution the Alamo was surrendered to Texas forces. Colonel Travis and his force of 187 men “hunkered down” inside in order to defend it and the surrounding area against the advance of the Mexican army. The rest is, shall we say, history. General Santa Anna led approximately 6.000 troops in a battle that lasted 13 days. The siege climaxed on March 6, 1836. All the Texan defenders died; those that surrendered at the end were shot. Mexican casualties probably amounted to approximately 200 killed and 400 wounded. With the battle cry, "Remember the Alamo!" the Texans organized, fought back and surprised the Mexicans on April, 21, 1836 and captured Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto. Is it any wonder these battle have become emblematic of bravery and sacrifice for Texans and Americans; that “Remember the Alamo” signifies these ideals for us even today. Travis, Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie have become the stuff of legends—just ask grandpa or dad!
After the war, with the fort in ruins, came a long list of tenants and those claiming ownership of the Mission: the Catholic Church; the US Government, the Confederate soldiers, and the City of San Antonio, who agreed to take responsibility for the care of the building and grounds in 1883. In 1905, the Texas Legislature gave custody of the site to the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, who still serve as managers and greeters at the Park. Two women activists, a historian and a philanthropist, clashed as to how the property should be preserved and utilized. Adina De Zavala barricaded herself in one of the Alamo buildings in a protest over prospective commercial use of the buildings. She also was instrumental in saving the Convento from being torn down. Restoration efforts have taken place at various times throughout the 20th century so you and the family will see it in extremely good condition and enjoy many interpretive displays. (There is no charge for admission to any of the Missions. Hours are Mon-Sat 9am-5:30pm; Sun 10am-5:30pm. Open daily except on Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. A large gift shop has many souvenirs; plus the kids can mail postcards from here that will be postmarked as coming from “the Alamo.”)
Mission Concepción
807 Mission Road
San Antonio, Texas 78210
Mission Concepción—is the best-preserved (meaning least restored) mission or “colonial building” in the Park. Visitors can still see original frescos in this beautiful stone church (founded by Franciscans) dedicated in 1755 in honor Our Lady of the Immaculate Conception and Juan de Acuna, Viceroy of New Spain (Mexico) at the time buildings were moved from the San Antonio River area to their current site. Today, three of the mission's rooms still provide a treasured look at the frescos painted more than 250 years ago! Imagine the whole exterior of the Church painted with vivid colors. Several groups worked to conserve the painting on the ceiling of the library in the Convento. You can’t miss it—it’s the colonial-styled house that served as the mission’s convent.
While visiting the missions notice the classic Spanish Colonial architecture, mixed with native American influences and Moorish motifs. By and large the craftsmen were from Mexico, instructed to maintain the Spanish architectural model. The laborers were mostly Native American residents who adapted the style to accommodate local weather conditions and materials. This community environment provided an underpinning for training, education and—don’t forget—conversion of Natives into Spanish citizens. To live in the Missions Indians were expected to give up their names, culture, religion and traditions. In fact, Mission Concepción served for many years as the residence of the Father President, an elected missionary “official” who served as a local “field coordinator” for this process. Mission Concepción was the site of elaborate religious festivals. The Missionaries replaced Native rituals with Christian Morality Plays and processionals. Between this and daily disciplines (such as attending Mass three times a day) the strategy eventually worked. Yes, today the parishioners celebrate Christian holidays with pageantry & processions, but their services still “whisper” Mexican and native traditions as well. On your visit you will see the apartments where the laborers lived complete with their large ovens laying on the ground outside. You’ll see ancient irrigation ditches, sparking imagination about what life in the Mission compounds must have been like: men working the land or learning agricultural skills as well as carpentry, blacksmithing, and tailoring. Women cooking, harvesting or fishing. There’s a small religious gift shop and a short movie. Concepción was designated a National Historic Landmark on April 15, 1970.
Mission San Jose
6701 San José Drive
San Antonio, Texas 78214
San Jose was established (in 1768) down the road from the other Missions and is the most remote mission in the 9-acre Park. No buses service this mission so if you want to visit, you must drive. This was the area’s largest mission, hosting at least 350 Native peoples who sustained themselves, the clergy, and others in the surrounding community by growing crops and raising livestock. After all, the Spanish had introduced the New World to wheat and horses, amongst other things. The Queen of the Missions, as it became known, had a far-flung reputation as a social and cultural nexus. It’s daunting stone walls, bastions, granary, and stunning church were completed by 1782. While able to hold off Indian attacks, there was defense against thievery of food and animals. The site was restored in the 1930’s by the WPA (Works Projects Administration) and features a Visitor Center adjacent to the mission.
Mission San Juan Capistrano
9101 Graf Road
San Antonio, Texas 78214
Originally founded in 1716 in eastern Texas, the Mission was transferred to its current site in 1731 and the church, friary and granary were completed by 1756. San Juan Capistrano was also self-sustaining; laborer citizens grew melons, pumpkins, grapes and peppers and worked with Rancho de Pataguilla, 20 miles southeast, to raise thousands of sheep and cattle. At its zenith, San Juan’s trade network stretched east to Louisiana and south to Coahuila, Mexico. Their commodities helped support not only the San Antonio missions, but local civilian settlements and presidio populations too. By the mid-1700’s, San Juan, with its rich farm and pasturelands, was a regional supplier of agricultural produce as well. Major renovations of this site and church came in the 1960's, paving the way for Mission San Juan to be an active and vibrant Catholic parish today.
Mission San Francisco de la Espada
10040 Espada Road
San Antonio, Texas 78214
This remarkable complex named after the founder of the Franciscan order, St. Francis of Assisi, is still used by the order today and supports a dynamic parish. It was built in 1690 near present-day Weches Texas, making it the oldest mission in the Park and the first mission in Texas. It was relocated to this site in 1731. A friary was added in 1745, and its unique church was completed in 1756. This mission’s primary function was to produce bricks. Its inhabitants were also taught to weave, cut stone, repair equipment and do metal working. The original inhabitants designed and dug flow ditches for irrigation that are, amazingly, still used today. As has been mentioned, Spanish missionaries sought to make life in these communities similar to that in Spanish village, reflecting Spanish culture. To this end the friars initiated training in many artistic disciplines in order to address all the varying “lifestyle” needs of the large, close-quartered community of residents. And artists they became! You can still see the significant influence of these Native American artisans, still engrained in the soul of San Antonio.
Guinness Book of World Records/Ripley's Haunted Adventure/Tomb Raider 3D
What kid can resist an adventure to a wax museum and an institution that has built a reputation recording and verifying the “weird of the weird” in terms of world-wide human exploits and antics? Here you can see all sorts of history, from Texas to Hollywood. They even feature a wax version of the Last Supper. There are 16 themed galleries spread over 10,000 sq. feet. Bounce around in neat exhibits, seeing artifacts & videos. Marvel at world records—many hilarious and astonishing! Ripley's Haunted Adventure is a multi-million dollar special effects haunted house featuring a frightening mix of live actors, special effects, elaborate sets, and animatronics to scare the pants off you! (Really!) Ride an old coffin cage to the top floor and then try to find your way out—if you dare! Opening in March 2008 is a Tomb Raider 3-D ride that takes you down into the ancient tomb of the Egyptian God, Anubis. (210-226-2828. 329 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio. Open daily except Christmas Day. Near River City Mall, across from the Alamo. From I-37 take Exit 41(Commerce Street) and head west. Turn right at Alamo Plaza St. (4 traffic lights) and travel 2 blocks. The Museum will be on your left.) www.haunted-guinness-crockett.com
University of Texas Institute of Texas Cultures
OK folks, this is a “one-stop shop” to learn about Texas’ varied cultural history and its influence upon the people of Texas. Opened in 1968 to support the HemisFair celebration, the Institute continues to develop interesting exhibits, programs, and special events that encourage acceptance and appreciation of the various cultures that have intermingled to become the Texas we love today. Take time to soak in the historical collection of over three million photographic images. The kids will enjoy the Bluebonnet Puppet Theater where family-friendly “diversity” shows utilizing ingenious puppets, props, music and audience participation. Call in advance to see what shows are playing during your visit. (210-458-2282). Andy’s Secret Code introduces youngsters to the history of cattle brands and how to “read” them. Anansi the Spider is an engaging folktale told in the African griot (or bard) story telling tradition. El Dia de los Muertos explains the history and traditions that are part of the Mexican Day of the Dead ceremonies (www.texancultures.utsa.edu; 210-458-2300. 801 South Bowie Street, San Antonio, TX. From the Alamo, proceed south on Alamo St., turn left on Durango Blvd. Make a U-turn just before the Bowie St. traffic light and head west to the main entrance. FREE parking is available).
SHOPPING/DINING
Paseo del Rio/The RiverWalk
Can you say, “flood control?” Just keep this in mind as you walk San Antonio’s famous RiverWalk. Some say the idea for the walkway was stolen from planners in Pleasanton, TX. Some say it was born in San Antonio. Whatever—something had to be done regarding flood control and Mother Nature saw to it. A devastating flood spawned serious (and controversial) flood control efforts in 1940 which culminated in the City’s inspired plan to turn the San Antonio River Bank into an inviting, landscaped walkway lined with hotels, shops, irresistible fine restaurants, galleries, cafes, coffee shops, bars, parks, and apartments. Yep, flood control efforts turned the area into one of San Antonio’s hottest attractions. Paseo Del Rio lies 20 feet below street level and follows the riverbank. Cobblestone walkways lead visitors to the river-level and onto the RiverWalk, which meanders along for 2.5 miles. Boat cruises operate along the river all day and into the night. The ride is brief—only 35-40 minutes—but you get some commentary and a good view of the buildings lining the river (which is different than they look from the walkway!) Teens are not usually hip to this ride, so let them walk and catch up with you later. Check the website for details including price, schedules, and reservations/tickets: (www.riosanantonio.com). You can also buy tickets from kiosks along the route. By far the biggest hassle in visiting the RiverWalk and LaVillita is parking. It is expensive and often hard to find. However, once you’re parked you can walk to many of the major attractions from here. And, please, look for helpful Ambassador Amigos in bright turquoise shirts if you need help. They’re equipped with radios and can provide answers to all sorts of questions. (For wheelchair access information: www.sanantonio.gov/ada/)
The RiverWalk—this quiet escape from the clatter of street noise is a welcome respite. After five decades of development it is, naturally, the pride of the city. In fact, plans exist to extend the RiverWalk for at least another two miles through the city. Picturesque arched bridges connect the two sides of the river, so strollers don’t have to pop up to the street level to cross the river. The river is shaded by towering cypresses, oaks and willows and bordered by gardens. There’s so many good restaurants along the walk there will be no problem in finding one that fits your family’s tastes and budget. In high season the biggest challenge is getting a table. So, if you have your heart set on a certain restaurant, on the weekend, you better make a reservation or arrive early. And, FYI, San Antonio has an array of restaurants and programs where “kids eat free!” And, if you’re wondering, the answer is yes! —the RiverWalk does get crowded, especially in summer season, so plan accordingly.
La Villita
Established by people arriving from the Canary Islands in 1731, La Villita is the first private settlement of residences and retail shops in San Antonio. In 1836, La Villita was the site of General Santa Ana's cannon line in the Battle of the Alamo—and a map from early that year shows the village to be quite large. From a collection of primitive huts to a city slum, La Villita reveals a fascinating history in its buildings and churches. It owes its ultimate preservation directly to the l968 HemisFair when the city decided to “fix it up” and put a wall around it. La Villita’s Gothic Revival Little Chapel, with its gorgeous stained glass window behind the altar, is not to be missed. It was constructed in 1879 and has become a popular spot for worship and weddings. Nondenominational services are held every Thursday and Sunday at 11am if you’re inclined. There’s a small gift shop in the back of the church.
La Villita today is a wonderful area to dine and shop. Enjoy breakfast, lunch or dinner at one of the 4 restaurants housed in La Villita’s historic buildings: Bolivar Café, Guadalajara Grill, Fig Tree Restaurant and Little Rhein Steak House. Afterwards stroll the shops and galleries for charming southwestern treasures, jewelry, clothing and fine art. Y’all have hit a jackpot when you saunter into Lone Star Mercantile looking for Lone Star souvenirs. What a selection! Check out what events might be happening during your stay. La Villita stages interesting events throughout the year that are fun and engaging for the whole family. For example, The Cloggers’ Showcase, May 9th or the Soul Food Festival, May 16th sound like winners. For your convenience, there is a small museum in the community as well as a full-service post office (www.lavillita.com; 210-207-8610. 418 Villita Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205).
Market Square - El Mercado
No need to rush across the border for shopping, El Mercado claims to be the largest Mexican marketplace outside of Mexico. Cover three square blocks you and your family and bound to have an adventure bargain-hunting, eating and strolling through a huge number of ethnic shops—many with a unique colorful history that feeds into the general lore of San Antonio’s past. For example, the building that houses Botica Guadalupana dates back to 1820 and was the first permanent structure on Produce Row, a historic section of the Mercado. It was a mercantile dry-goods store, a theatre that served liquor and staged cockfights and a house of ill repute before becoming a drug store in 1893—Cowen Drug—which became Botica Guadalupana in 1912. Stop by Mi Tierra Café and Bakery, owned by the Cortez family since 1943, where you can sample authentic Mexican pastries, eat spicy food and hear mariachi music. And not to worry about timing, it’s open 24 hours a day, every day of the year! There are over 30 indoor shops in El Mercado where you can purchase Mexican blankets, dresses, leather, jewelry and, for the kids, cute piñatas. The heart of the area is between Dolorosa, Santa Rosa, and Commerce Streets; I H-35 serves as its western boundary. The addition of the Farmers Market Plaza in 1994, reflecting the history of growers selling fresh produce in the area, serves up a nice food court and 30+ shops that allow of glimpse of Texan and Mexican history. The Centro de Artes del Mercado, or Market Square Arts Center, is a beautifully restored 2-story building where civic and social functions unfold and traveling exhibits highlighting Latino life in the south west are featured. (210-207-8600, 514 W. Commerce, San Antonio, TX; 10 blocks from the Alamo. The area can be reached by horse drawn carriage or by streetcar.)
PLAY OUTDOORS
Brackenridge Park
Golfers relax and play a great game of golf on Texas’ oldest municipal golf course (www.playsanantoniogolf.com; 210-734-7183) while the rest of the clan visits the zoo or the does just about anything you can think of that involves the great outdoors. With beautiful rustic stone bridges and winding walkways, the city's main park reflects the grace of a park developed in 1899. There are playgrounds, concessions, and marvelous picnicking facilities. Take the little ones and ride the popular Brackenridge Eagle (210-734-7183), an 1863-replica miniature train that chugs along a 2.5-mile stretch of the Park (www.sanantonio.gov/sapar/brackhistory.asp). The Park is also home to the San Antonio Zoo because the first “zoo” exhibit (in the 1880’s) of buffalo, elk, monkeys, a pair of lions, deer and four bears was made on this land that had been donated to the city by George W. Brackenridge. (He arranged for the animals, too!) In today’s zoo you can “visit” the African Plains or the Amazon, you can talk to butterflies. Check out Gibbon Forest, an aquarium and reptile house, and see rare, endangered whooping crane from a boardwalk in the lush Cranes of the World exhibit. In fact, birders delight; this zoo has a large and renowned collection!
Another incredible part of the Park is the Japanese Sunken Garden or Japanese Tea Garden. (www.sanantonio.gov/sapar; 210-821-3120) It is a magical place with an interesting history—built by prisoners in order to beautify an abandoned mid-1800’s cement quarry (that provided the cement for the capitol building in Austin) in the area. A Sunken Garden Theater was also built to capitalize on the natural acoustics provided by limestone cliffs that remain in the Garden to this day. Visitors enjoy a 60-foot-high waterfall, ponds graced with water lilies, meandering walkways, stone arch bridges, an island and a pagoda. The garden counts a Texas Civil Engineering Landmark, a Registered Texas Historic Landmark, and a listing on the National Register of Historic Places amongst its designations and accolades. (www.sanantoniocvb.com/things/citypark.htm; 210-734-7184 The main entrance is in the 2800 block of N. Broadway)
Nelson Wolff Municipal Stadium
Take me out to the ballgame at San Antonio’s Nelson Wolff Municipal Stadium. Mom, dad and the kids have an old-fashioned good time as they cheer on the 2002-2003 Texas League champion, the San Antonio Missions. Affordable food and drink concessions, including yummy roasted corn on the cob, are waiting. The stadium’s seats are comfortable and shaded and the team’s two mascots provide a good laugh for the whole family. The Stadium is a bit of a drive, but otherwise the outing provides a sterling opportunity to enjoy Texas baseball just as Texans have done since the 1880’s. (Thursday nights are Dollar Night with $1 beer, soda and hot dogs. (Standard game times are Monday through Saturday at 7:05pm. Sunday and doubleheader games start at 6:05pm. Purchase tickets in advance at 210-675-7275 or at the box office on game day. Look for the twin bell towers at the entrance. 5757 Hwy. 90 West, San Antonio, TX. 210-224-9600. Take the I-10 W toward Boerne, take Exit 566A toward W. Ave. Merge onto McDermott Fwy., then take a left a W. Ave. (.5mi). Turn right at Fresno St, then left at Angeles Drive.)
Natural Bridge Caverns
Do you have little spelunkers? Would you like to? The family will have to go outside in order to go back inside to witness Natural Bridge Caverns and the amazing experience of visiting a live cave, the largest natural history attraction in Texas and a beautiful show cavern. People and creatures have visited the cave for at least 10,000 years based on archeological-dig findings. There are two tours into different caverns; you can take one or the other or buy a combo package. The well-lighted concrete walkways have stainless steel handrails; the cave is known for having excellent lighting too so everyone can see the bizarre cave formations down under. Both are less than 1 mile in length, and last about 75 minutes. It is very humid in the cave, so jackets are unnecessary. You will undoubtedly feel drips of water on your head along the way; the pathways are always wet so wear non-skid shoes. (Strollers and wheelchairs are not recommended.) On the Jeremy Room Tour the clan will have a chance to see rare formations like “soda straw” stalactites, “cave ribbon” and “welt and turnip shields.” The North Cavern Tour takes you into the largest cavern in Texas—plus you get to see prized formations with crazy names like “Fried Eggs” and “Sherwood Forest.” Once you’re group is assembled “on top” the kids will enjoy the site’s Watchtower Challenge, a huge 50-foot outdoor climbing tower with zip line escapes—suitable for youngsters and experienced climbers. Or, turn your spelunkers into miners at the Natural Bridge Mining Company, where they pan for gold and gemstones. There’s a gift shop, snack bar, and picnic grounds to be enjoyed as well. (For a discount coupon visit:
saattractions.com/caverns.asp. & www.naturalbridgecaverns.com/ 830-980-5022
26495 Natural Bridge Cavern Road, San Antonio, TX 78266. To visit, take I-35 toward New Braunfels (8 miles from downtown San Antonio), Exit 175, onto Natural Bridge Caverns Road, F.M. 3009. Hours vary by season so visit this website to determine dates/hours during your visit: www.naturalbridgecaverns.com/hoursPrices.aspx
Comanche Lookout Park
Would y’all like to get out, workout, plus hike to a spot where you’ll get a super view of San Antonio and its surroundings? Why not tackle Comanche Lookout Loop? It’s easy to find and offers a multitude of trails so your family outing can be as brief or as languorous as you like. The hike’s trailhead off Nacogdoches Road (once part of the Spanish Camino Real trail) follows a paved path (and a somewhat dramatic incline) up to the lookout point, where you’ll find the remains of a large tower (built in 1923). This was originally part of a residence, not a fort as is rumored—the stuff of urban legends. Your crew can rest, take pictures and then circle back down the hill—or explore more by veering off on your own along any one of the gravel paths that wind throughout the park. Birders may want to take this hike in the early evening during migration months. You won’t be disappointed. (www.sanantonio.gov/sapar/comanchehis. Judson at Nacogdoches Roads—15551 Nacogdoches, San Antonio, TX 78283. Parking, restrooms & drinking fountains available. Wheelchair and stroller accessible.)
PLAY INDOORS
Need a day “to do nothing?” Why not take a day off and hang loose in the neighborhood and at the Villas’ pool? Sleep in, have a light breakfast in your suite, and then suit up for a morning poolside swim with the kids. You’re staying on 7 acres in gorgeous San Antonio hill country, so make the most of it. Soak up the sun, read a good book, write a few postcards. The kids will have a ball frolicking around in the pool and being able to pop back to the room for a quick snack. They’ll also enjoy the Villas’ on-site playground featuring swings, slides and ladders. Hungry for lunch? Treat the kids and the adults—take an easy drive to the nearby Gazebo Restaurant at Los Patios. No need to get all dressed up. (Lunch is served Mon-Sat from 11:30am–2:30 pm. And Sundays The Gazebo offers a buffet/brunch from 11:00-2:30pm) The Gazebo has been serving delicious regional foods to vacationing families since 1970. The views are divine, plus they offer a children’s menu and serve favorites like Crepes Gazebo or a hefty fruit salad plate—all in a very comfortable setting. (Reservations are not required, but if you have a large party they are recommended: 655-6171). Afterwards, perhaps dad and the kids can take a stroll around the 20-acre center (a model of conservation!) while Mom indulges in some long overdue pampering at the lovely Gordiany Salon & Day Spa in Los Patios (appts: 654-3340). (Los Patios, 2015 NE Loop 410, at Loop 410 and Starcrest.)
Day Trips in San Antonio, TX
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