River Walk (The)
When
you think of San Antonio, two things automatically come
to mind: the Alamo and the River Walk. The River Walk was
conceived in 1929. Downtown had serious flood problems,
and Robert Hugman suggested that the city turn the San Antonio
River into an asset rather than a hindrance. Hugman's brainchild
has since become the essence of the city. The city's most
popular attraction, it is often crowded and filled with
children, partygoers, tourists and locals. In the heart
of the River Walk is an area filled with restaurants, shops
and nightclubs, punctuated by fountains and towering Cypress
trees. There is no guardrail, so be careful (although the
river is shallow enough that you can stand in it). If you
don't like rowdiness or crowds, it is best to stay away
during events and festivals. The River Walk is particularly
crazy during Fiesta.
Market Square
The
historical center and heart of the city's Mexican culture,
the square is the largest Mexican marketplace outside of
Mexico. Here you can dine on Mexican food at one of several
cafes, enjoy the lively sounds of Mariachi bands, and buy
the wonderful blankets, clothes, leather and metal goods,
and more imported from just south of the border. The square
plays host to many cultural events and fairs throughout
the year, including Fiesta del Mercado (Party of the Market)
in April and Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in November.
Fiesta
San Antonio
This
10-day, citywide event is the city's largest celebration
and draws more than three million visitors each year. With
dozens of events held every day, there is more to do than
is humanly possible: carnivals, street parties, parades,
art exhibits, sports, debutante balls and ethnic feasts.
Be sure to claim a spot (or buy a ticket) for the River
Parade, the Battle of Flowers Parade and the Flambeau Parade.
Three parades may mean a lot of floats and marching bands
to watch, but each is distinct and has its own characteristics.
Other popular events include NIOSA (Night In Old San Antonio),
the King William Fair and Hermann's Happiness.
Alamo (The)
Originally
the Mission San Antonio del Valero, the Alamo is by far
the most famous historical site in Texas, playing a significant
role in Texas' quest for independence from Mexico. Under
the command of Col. William Travis, 189 Texan soldiers bravely
defended this fort for 13 days before finally succumbing
to Santa Anna's massive Mexican army in early 1836. The
chapel and the Long Barrack are all that remain of the fort.
Saved from civilian apathy by the Daughters of the Republic
of Texas, the mission is now a museum containing relics
from the era. Texans take the Alamo very seriously. Silence,
or at least a hushed tone of voice, is insisted upon both
in the chapel and on the grounds. Narrated tours are available.
San Antonio Zoo
Situated
along the San Antonio River and next to Brackenridge Park,
this zoo is considered one of the finest in America, housing
more than 3,500 animals representing more than 700 species.
The recently renovated "big cat" exhibit draws
big crowds, as does the bird collection, which is one of
the largest in the United States. Allow time for wandering
around; even though there is plenty of directional signage,
the exhibits are a confusing maze. The zoo offers educational
programs weekly and is available for private events. Call
for more information.
La Villita
A
unique arts and crafts community now exists where the first
San Antonio neighborhood once stood. Shops and artists inhabit
restored original buildings surrounded by shaded plazas.
The leisurely shopper will enjoy discovering original works
of art, photographic prints, antiques, and eclectic gifts.
The tiny non-denominational church, aptly named The Little
Church of La Villita, still holds services every Sunday
morning and is a popular wedding site. The plazas are available
for private parties.
Tower of the Americas
What
a sight to behold: glass-walled elevators ascend more than
500 feet to the observation deck, providing a panoramic
view of the city. Standing a total 750 feet tall, the tower
was constructed for HemisFair, the 1968 World's Fair, and
symbolizes the progress made by the peoples of the Western
Hemisphere.
Spanish Governor's Palace
This
is the "most beautiful building" in the city according
to the National Geographic Society. This national historic
landmark was originally the official residence of the Governor
of the Spanish Province of Texas in the late 18th century.
The building is like a step back in time, replete with period
furnishings, small rooms with low ceilings, and thick stucco
walls. The cobblestone patio features beautiful foliage
and a fountain supposedly haunted by a former resident.
Most noteworthy is the original keystone over the entrance,
which bears the carved, double-headed eagle from the Hapsburg
coat of arms along with an inscription, in Spanish, reading
"finished in 1749."
San Antonio Botanical Garden Center
33
acres of lush foliage and colorful blooms beg to be appreciated.
A wonderful attraction often overlooked by visitors, the
garden is exquisite year round, with something always in
bloom. A conservatory, formal gardens, "old-fashioned"
gardens and native plant areas provide a variety of interest.
This is definitely a must-see for both botany experts and
garden-variety folks. If you're visiting in the spring,
don't forget your antihistamines. The garden center features
a luncheon cafe, a gift shop, guided tours, and adults'
and children's classes, and is also available for private
parties.
Yanaguana Cruises, Inc.
Hop
aboard one of the city's river barges and take a 40-minute
cruise around the 2.5-mile stretch of the San Antonio River
known as the River Walk. Narrated cruises emphasize the
history of the area and depart hourly from three "ports."
Don't be shy about waving to passersby, as there's something
about you being on a boat that will make them want to wave
to you, too. Barges are available for private tours, dining
charters and custom cruises. River taxis are available for
groups, as well. Reservations are accepted for seating on
general public narrated cruises.
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