What to do in San Antonio, Texas

Waking one early March morning to admire yet another stunning Michigan snowfall , we readily hopped a plane that afternoon to sunny San Antonio. San Antonio is a relaxing sort of town in which you can stroll the River Walk, enjoy some excellent food, and just pop over to the Alamo for a quick (or not so quick) history lesson. Here are some of the highlights:

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Boudro’s Texas Bistro- I read somewhere (maybe even in a couple of places) that this was a restaurant not to be missed. Located on the River Walk, it would be easy for one to walk right by the sign and hostess stand. Turn around, Google Map it, do whatever you have to do to get to this restaurant. Get the Guacamole. It is made table-side with fresh ingredients and even a quick squeeze of orange (we were doubtful but it really added just the right touch to the appetizer). We asked our delightful server what percentage of her tables in a night get the guacamole. 99.9% was the answer! It really is just that good. The main entrees were equally decadent– it’s doubtful that you could go wrong in choosing any of the dishes. (I also LOVE that they offer blankets! I think this is a perfect travel-inspired hosting touch. For a Texas (Magnolia)-inspired touch, check out this cozy blanket! Or, for Great Lakes Native American- inspired wool blanket, check this one out!)

While it is festive and comfortable to remain on the River Walk, we decided that we should try going “above ground” and wound up on historic Houston Street, stopping for lunch at Market on Houston displaying a trendy ambiance, farm-to-table food (it’s part of the GO TEXAN program), and street-side seating. Their website also boasts “18 craft and microbrews beers, as well as 20 wines by the glass or bottle.” (And over 180 wines in their cellar!). I just love the feeling that French bistro chairs add to the dining experience! (In fact, I may add some to our patio at home. Check them out here. Or, if I had an island/peninsula, I may look into these lovely chairs.)

The Alamo– Admittedly and sadly, I know very little about western USA history. The Alamo is located in downtown San Antonio and maybe a 5-10 minute walk from most areas of the River Walk. You can purchase a tour or stroll through at your own pace and read the plaques to give yourself a little history lesson. Refresher… During their war for independence from Mexico, a small army of around 200 Texan soldiers held out against a Mexican army of thousands for an impressive 13 days at the Alamo. Although they lost that battle, the Alamo signals the Texan struggle for independence, which was eventually achieved that year.

San Fernando Cathedral– Right in the middle of the city and with easy access from the River Walk is the oldest standing church building in Texas. Here is a bit of history from their website: “San Fernando Cathedral was founded on March 9, 1731 by a group of 15 families who came from the Canary Islands at the invitation of King Phillip V of Spain and is the oldest, continuously functioning religious community in the State of Texas.” 

Go RIO– I wish that I would have done this 35-40 minute river tour at the beginning of the trip as it helped me to orient myself better and determine follow up visits to certain areas and places. 

La Villita Historic Arts Village– Almost 300 years old and one of the city’s first neighborhoods, this quaint and adorable village filled with art shoppes and clothing/home boutiques was one of my favorite places. When you walk by the entrance, it looks a bit abandoned but STOP (don’t keep walking as I did the first three times). There is also a cute cafe if you are hungry or thirsty. Many of the buildings have plaques in the front to explain what the buildings were originally intended.

The Weather- At the beginning of March, it was quite comfortable to walk around. Most of the days were around 70 degrees, although there was one 94 degree day just to remind us that we were in the South.

What to Wear– The dress seems casual. I never once felt underdressed. Here are some of the clothes I brought along (clearly this would be a bit different if it was July)…

As I think I noted in my Travel Capsule for Spring post (here), I’m really trying to scale down and make purchases that can be used for years to come. As such (and of course), the clothes that I packed are no longer available, so I did list some alternatives here…

Target long-sleeve maxi Alternatives: This or this should do the trick. You can find the sandals here. I think that these sandals would go nicely as well or a maybe even a more cost effective pair like these.

Lole Dress Alternatives: Love this one. This one is an affordable option, too.

There you have it! Where to Go, What to Eat, and What to Wear in San Antonio, Texas. Not headed to San Antonio just yet? Here’s a pin for later…