If you, your best friend, or significant other have been thinking about getting away for an extended weekend, and you are not sure where to go, I encourage you to consider San Antonio, SA. Why? Well, if you live in Houston, you can be there in 3.5 hours by car. And, it is the destination for many attractions such as Six Flags Fiesta Texas, the Natural Bridge Caverns, and SeaWorld is just a few reasons to create an itinerary for your excursion to the home of the beloved Spurs.
The Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa is an ideal location for everyone. The facility is close to so many attractions, and it is a vacation experience in itself. The rustic country style resort is aesthetically pleasing, comfortable and provides everything you need for an enjoyable fun stay.
Breakfast is my favorite meal, so I ventured to and explored the Market Square is part of San Antonio’s downtown area near the Riverwalk which is on the San Antonio River. If shopping is your passion, and you enjoy searching for eclectic finds, then the Market Square is the place for you. While I was there, I had breakfast at Mi Tierra Café, a world-famous eatery that has been in the Cortez family for 75 years. They are open 24 hours a day for breakfast lunch and dinner. When you go, please order the pancakes with bacon and extra syrup.
Photo Credit: Syneetra Williams
After my hearty breakfast, I was introduced to the Broadway Cultural Corridor which included a visit to San Antonio’s Botanical Garden. It is truly SA’s community backyard. The fragrant aroma will capture you as you take in 38 acres of rich greenery and vibrant colors. It is the ideal location for weddings, parties, field trips, and more. They even have a children’s vegetable garden. The architecture is breathtaking. Pictures are in order. A beautiful reminder that plants play a significant role in our daily lives because they provide food, medicine, fuel, shelter, fragrances, beauty and so much more on which we depend.
Photo Credit: Syneetra Williams
I dined sumptuously on a plethora of succulent morsels and tasty delights as I slowly sipped the provided potation while floating on a barge down the SA River. I raised my glass to those who strolled down the walkway. I watched others as they enjoyed their meals, conversed with friends, or perused their tablets on that warm sunny afternoon. Who knew that SA has so many hidden treasures and quiet adventures?
Photo Credit: Syneetra Williams
When you think of SA, The Alamo is the first thought that comes to mind and for a good reason. A historical landmark and a precious gem have a story to tell that is worth hearing. The building and landscape are preserved as if time stood still since that 13-day battle in 1836 that shaped Texas’ history forever. Come and learn about how this event ended the Texas Revolution. As you walk about the grounds, you will see a beautiful terrain with oversized chairs, picnic table, and a chess board for your amusement.
Have you ever heard of a theme park designed for children with disabilities? Well, Morgan’s Wonderland is such a warm, loving, and friendly environment for children with and without disabilities and SA is its home. It officially opened on June 17, 2017, for this season. “Like Morgan’s Wonderland, Morgan’s Inspiration Island is not a special-needs park; it’s a park of inclusion,” said Gordon Hartman, founder of The Gordon Hartman Family Foundation, which since 2005 has pursued endeavors benefitting the special-needs community. “Both were designed with special-needs individuals in mind and built for everyone’s enjoyment.”
While you are there, if you meet a faithful volunteer for many years named Bob McCullough, he will take you on a personal tour. He has a great deal to say about Morgan’s Wonderland, the people he sees daily, and the children he meets who can’t seem to stop smiling and laughing. Oh, by the way, he loves Cajun food, and he hopes that more restaurants that feature this exquisite cuisine will come to SA.
Eating is what we do to live. If you relish in exercising your mouth, teeth, and tongue, then make your way to 1111 South Alamo, to a former convent that is now known as the Liberty Bar for cocktails, appetizers, and dinner. If American food is your pleasure, then you will delight in the menu options. If you crave Mexican food, then please make your way to Viola’s Ventanas for upscale dining with outdoor seating, bar, and grill. The hospitality at these establishments will captivate you. In fact, Diana Barrios Treviño, the proud owner, wrote a cookbook featuring family Tex-Mex recipes. She welcomes everyone she sees with a warm smile and a big hug.
There is so much more to love about SA that a day or two is simply not enough time to see, smell, and taste all that there is in Texas’ seventh largest city. Oh, there is one more thing. Be sure to visit the Saga at San Fernando Cathedral for a 24-minute video art installation that will take your breath away.
Take it from me; there is a great deal to love about San Antonio. The cultural scene, sounds, and tastes cut across age, gender, and socio-economic status. There is something special for everyone to appreciate in San Antonio.
