Bienvenido San Antonio! I meet a lot of people who are new to the area. Here is my list of places to consider visiting in San Antonio.
(Due to world events, please check in with each place before heading out to ensure that they are still open. So your time will not be wasted.)
EVERYTHING
Alamodome
100 Montana St, San Antonio, TX 78203
Catch a UTSA game, games, conferences, and concerts.
Aztec Theatre
104 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Another venue for concerts and shows.
B&B Smokehouse
2619 Pleasanton Rd, San Antonio, TX 78221
One of my favorite local BBQ joints. I always order the turkey bacon club. Sometimes with extra bacon on the side. I’m also a fan of the fresh lemonade, cookies, fries, and green beans. The salads are HUGE! The burgers taste good. I’m not a huge meat-eater so I can’t really speak on the typical BBQ fare here, but there is usually always a line.
Bill Miller Bar-B-Q
Multiple locations
Headquartered in San Antonio. A staple in the area. Typically quick service; however I recommend going inside if you see a long line in the drive-thru. You must try the sweet tea – addictive! They even sell it by the bucket. I usually order mine half sweet, half unsweet as the sweet is very sweet. As for the food, I really like the turkey salad with ranch, chopped BBQ sandwich, hash browns (not like other restaurants), french fries, green beans, and fudge brownies. Usually the Buckaroos kids’ chopped BBQ sandwich meal is plenty for me.
Buc-ee’s
2760 I-35, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Ever seen people wearing beaver t-shirts? This is the gas station with a cult following. Decorate your house, buy things for your car, pick up deer feed, buy camping equipment, in addition to Texas-themed items and many other products. The largest selection of snacks I’ve ever seen. Barbeque, kolaches, fudge, etc. And the cleanest bathrooms you’ll ever find in a gas station. The New Braunfels location was at one time the biggest gas station in the world. It has at least 83 bathrooms and 120 gas pumps. Don’t forget to take your picture with the beaver statue.
Cabo Bob’s Burritos
847 NE Loop 410 San Antonio, TX 78209
Think of Chipotle with kind of a Baja California vibe. I enjoy the Baja Fish Tacos (#3) and the steak nachos. When I order the steak nachos, I order them with: no rice, light pinto beans, steak, nacho cheese sauce on the side, cabbage, cilantro, lettuce, four scoops of pico de gallo, sour cream, chipotle crema sauce, and spicy jalapeno sauce. You can also order the nachos with the fish if you prefer.
Central Market
4821 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
I always say that if I make millions of dollars then I’ll eat at Central Market every day. Their prepared foods are fantastic. My favorites are the fresh juices, baked goods, and soups. When the salad bar is available, it is my favorite salad bar for a quick pickup of healthy food. The salad I make usually consists of some combination of romaine lettuce, spring mix, arugula, carrots, cucumbers, celery, tomato/mozzarella pasta, salmon, grilled chicken, chickpeas, mushrooms, roasted pumpkin seeds, parmesan cheese, beets, boiled egg, and their fantastic Caesar dressing. But they have tons of other prepared foods. And a great selection of international and specialty foods. Tons more I could say. Definitely a spot to visit if you are a foodie. Also a good spot to meet someone for a chat. Usually good environment. Think of it as H-E-B’s version of Whole Foods, but better in many ways.
Cheesy Jane’s
4200 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Unique spot. Feels like you’ve been transported back to another time. The last time I went, they had a train running on a track around the ceiling. I recommend their shakes and the Baby Jane Sampler.
Chicho Boys Fruit Market
1631 S Laredo St, San Antonio, TX 78207
Chicho Boys is owned by the family that owns River City Produce across the street. Think of River City Produce as the wholesale/bulk arm and Chicho Boys as the retail arm. Chicho Boys has specials on in-season produce. They also sell fruit cups and other prepared fruit/vegetable snacks. Connect with them online to receive their weekly specials.
Chuy’s
Multiple locations
Tex-Mex born in Austin. My favorite dish is the grilled baja shrimp tacos à la carte with the creamy jalapeño dressing. I am also a big fan of their tortilla soup. And their chips and salsa fresca. I recommend their Happy Hour – sometimes they have an unlimited chips and salsa/queso bar during that time. But please call in advance for details.
Dahlia Thai Cuisine
8498 Fredericksburg Rd, San Antonio, TX 78229
My favorite thing to order here is the Tom Yum soup. My only real complaint is that it does not seem like they hire enough people. It seems the staff is overworked so it seems to take a long time to get anything. I usually end up having to go up to ask for what I need.
Dairy Queen
Multiple locations
You probably have a Dairy Queen near you in the USA, but if you’ve never tried a Blizzard then here is your chance. My favorite is the Choco Brownie Extreme, Reese’s Pieces Cookie Dough, or my own creation – mint with Snickers. I also like the steak finger basket – but it looks like they might not have that on the menu right now. Their tacos are surprisingly edible as a quick snack to hold you over.
El Mirasol
Multiple locations
More upscale than your typical taco joint. I’m a fan of the grilled shrimp tacos and their salsas.
El Potosino
7243 San Pedro Ave, San Antonio, TX 78216
I call this place the Mexican Hooter’s. I’m guessing they intend it to be that way. As a female, I feel really unwelcome here. Like maybe they think I am taking up a table where that should be taken up by a male that will tip them more for showing skin? That being said, I really like the food here so I started going through the drive-thru to order. The huaraches are my favorite menu item here – cravable. I would come here probably on a weekly basis if I felt more welcome inside.
Embassy Miniature Golf
500 Embassy Oaks, San Antonio, TX 78216
This is a date-night spot or a spot to meet up with a small group of friends. Might be a little awkward to go by yourself since pretty much everyone is there with someone else. But hey, do you. It’s a good place for kids also. I enjoy going here. Very simple courses. Good old-fashioned fun. There is also a movie-theater and a pool place nearby to continue on the fun.
Espada Aqueduct
9045 Espada Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214
This is an interesting part of San Antonio’s history. Not a destination unless you’re interested in architecture, public works, history, etc. Good educational opportunity for interested kiddos.
Fiesta San Antonio
Multiple locations in mostly downtown
Parades, eating, festivals, decorations. Definitely recommend checking out all of the events if you are going to be in town. Usually happens in April.
French Sandwiches
8448 Fredericksburg Rd, San Antonio, TX 78229
Good, clean unassuming spot for breakfast and lunch. I order the bahn mi. It came with a small pastry.
Frost Bank Center
1 AT&T Center Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78219
Catch a Spurs game or concert.
GO RIO Cruises
Multiple locations
A must-do if you spend time in San Antonio. A good activity to bring almost all people. Just be aware you’ll be on a boat with a lot of people when the tourists are in town. I usually recommend that people take a tour during the day and then another time at night as both are different experiences. During the Christmas holidays, the Riverwalk is decorated in a lot of lights – so I definitely recommend the night cruises during that time. There is a short loop that goes around downtown. Sometimes there is a longer loop that will bring you through the Lock & Dam and onto the Pearl. I’d recommend doing the longer loop if it is available and you have the time and patience. However, little kids with short attention spans might lose interest on the longer loop. Please check ticket prices and availability before venturing out to do any of the cruises. In the summer, please be aware of the heat and schedule/dress accordingly.
Goro’s Sushi
2619 Mossrock, San Antonio, TX 78230
Doesn’t look like much from the outside, but the sushi was really good and I thought it was affordable for the quality and amount. Definitely recommend.
Gristmill River Restaurant & Bar
1287 Gruene Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Iconic spot on the river in Gruene, TX. I recommend this spot for the vibe. But be forewarned, it’s usually very busy and the service times will fall in line accordingly. You’re paying for the location and hype, but I’ve always enjoyed my food here.
Gruene Historic District
Gruene Rd & Hunter Rd, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Lots of shops. I’d say if you’re interested in a more unique collection of shops, check out this area. And time your trip with Gruene Market Days. This place gets packed on popular days. The main parking area is located behind The Grapevine. Also Gruene is pronounced “Green”. Definitely check out the Gristmill restaurant if you make it this way.
Guajillo’s
1001 Northwest Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78213
One of the more authentic places in town. I recommend the pozole or enfrijoladas. Be forewarned: the salsa served with the chips is super hot to the untrained palate.
H-E-B
Multiple locations
Welcome to Texas. Cult following that is well-deserved. Must pay them a visit if you’ve never been in one of their stores. I can’t say enough good things about this company and their stores. But my favorite has to be their prepared foods. Highly-recommend. In their bigger stores, I also suggest trying their loaded brisket baked potatoes or their SouthFlo Pizza. I’m also a fan of their home delivery or curbside pickup options.
Historic Market Square
514 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207
This is a popularized shopping area downtown that is a stereotypical “tourist trap”. It’s one of those places that you should probably go to at least one time. There are plenty of shops with supposedly artisan wares. Lots of stuff to decorate your house with. And plenty of stereotypical Hispanic products. I’d also suggest eating at Mi Tierra if you make the trip here. The marketplace is also usually decorated in a very festive vibe. And there are frequently bands and other events in this area. However, the marketplace is just a few blocks from the homeless shelters. So please be careful with your belongings and person when frequenting this area.
Hungry Horse Restaurant and Catering
109 Saunders St, Boerne, TX 78006
This is one of my favorite American restaurants in the area. The burgers are huge and delicious. Especially the bacon. Also, the downtown section of Boerne can be nice to walk around and check out artisan wares.
James Kiehl River Bend Park
118 River Bend Rd, Comfort, TX 78013
This will be the first time I publicly disclose one of my favorite spots to go to for a break from the city and relative peace and quiet. Let’s see how long that lasts. Worth the drive.
Japanese Tea Garden
3853 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
A really interesting gem near downtown. Popular and located relatively close to downtown. Also located close to the Zoo, Brackenridge Park, and other Broadway attractions.
Jerusalem Grill
203 N Loop 1604 W, San Antonio, TX 78232
I really liked the naan here. I also thought the service was good considering the price and quality.
Koreana Restaurant
2458 Harry Wurzbach Rd #5, San Antonio, TX 78209
Polite but kinda emotionless service. However, the food was good. The real deal. I don’t see the sampler plate on the menu available online, but there was some kind of sampler plate that someone ordered for me. It was really good. A ton of stuff to try out.
Los Arcos Mexican Grill
Multiple locations
A popular spot. I’m a fan of their Bulverde location and salsa verdes. The pirata taco used to be my go-to.
Los Cucos
1310 E. Common St., New Braunfels, TX 78130
The thing that stands out to me on their menu are the stuffed avocados. However, my favorite menu item is the queso flameado.
Luciano Ristorante Italiano
15900 La Cantera Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78256
I really like this place. On par with established corporate chains. I like the ambiance. Sit down, but not stuffy. Bright and open. Good service. The food is a little more expensive that a cheap pizza run, but tastes fresh. I highly recommend the Parma pizza. Delicious and craveable! Located on a busy corner in the thick of the La Cantera shopping center. Lots of free parking is available, but you might have to walk a bit on a busy day.
Majestic & Empire Theatres
224 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Catch a concert or show.
Mama Margie’s Mexican Cafe
Multiple locations
A San Antonio Tex-Mex staple. Good spot to kick back and chill. Unlimited chips with a good fresh salsa bar. I recommend the bean and cheese taco, the picadillo taco, the carne guisada taco, the queso appetizer, and the fresh lemonade. I also like to order a soda with half Dr. Pepper and half Big Red.
McAdoo’s Seafood Company
196 N Castell Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
I recommend stopping by this spot for creole fine dining. My favorite is the Crawfish & Shrimp Etouffee.
McKenna Children’s Museum
801 W San Antonio St, New Braunfels, TX 78130
Another great children’s museum. Tons of things to do for the kids. Very interactive.
McNay Art Museum
6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78209
Beautiful grounds. Always seems to be new exhibits. One of the better, more established museums in town.
Mi Tierra Café y Panadería
218 Produce Row, San Antonio, TX 78207
One of the most popular restaurants in San Antonio. A stereotypical “tourist trap” but also a must-see. I always bring people from out of town here. The decorations, live mariachis, and huge bakery create a unique experience. The food is overpriced but also good.
Mission Espada
10328 Espada Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Missions are a big part of San Antonio history. This one is one of the more interesting ones in my opinion.
Mod Pizza
Multiple locations
This is usually my first pick for grab and go pizza. Thin crust, but also has gluten-free and cauliflower crusts. The kicker here is unlimited toppings for the same price. Build-your-own or order one of their recommended combinations. Only two sizes – personal or what might be classified as a small to medium size at other places. They try to bill themselves as providing fast service, but I’ve been greatly disappointed on that at many of their locations if there is a line. Doesn’t seem like they encourage their employees to focus on the customers. That being said, I love the options and the price. My order is: pesto sauce, arugula, cilantro, basil, garlic, parmesan cheese, asiago cheese, bacon, salami, spicy sausage, artichokes, mushrooms, onions, tomatoes, rosemary, oregano, salt, and pepper. Then after it’s cooked, I top if with half balsamic fig glaze and half sri-rancha sauce. Mmmmm! 🙂
Monterrey Café
2570 IH 35 S, New Braunfels, TX 78130
If you and your stomach are a bit more on the adventurous side, the service isn’t great but I always like their pupusas.
Moroccan Bites Tajine
5718 Evers Rd, San Antonio, TX 78238
As seen on TV. This is the real deal. I really like the baklava.
Morgan’s Wonderland
5223 David Edwards Dr, San Antonio, TX 78233
This is a world-renowned all-inclusive children’s theme and amusement park that is designed specifically with inclusivity in mind. It was named one of Time’s “World’s Greatest Places”.
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266
One of my favorite things to do in San Antonio. This is a drive-thru “safari” adventure. Basically you stay in your car and drive around a loop where there are different animals that roam freely in the area and are able to come up to your vehicle where you can feed them with food purchased when you enter the park. The food will go fast – lean towards buying more versus less. Some of the animals are not shy, just fyi. You can also get out and feed a giraffe in the beginning. Sometimes there is a long line. I’d suggest going on days when the animals are most likely up and around and have not reached their limit for interest in human interaction for the day. The earlier you go probably the more probable it will be that they will not be hiding from the sun.
Old Tunnel State Park
10619 Old San Antonio Rd, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
This used to be a place you could go to for peace and quiet. Last time I went here, that was not the case. Apparently the word is out. The main story of this spot is that it is an old train tunnel bridge where a bat colony resides. During certain times of the year people come here to watch the bats exit the tunnel in large groups around sunset as they go foraging. There is an area that you can hang out for free. But there is also an additional viewing area and education experience that you can pay money for access to. This park feels like it is in the middle of nowhere; bring whatever you need in terms of gas and water. Also recommend gassing up and using the restroom before heading out here. There is a restroom that is open onsite when the park personnel are onsite. Also, be careful of deer when leaving after dark. They are plentiful in the area and the road is full of turns.
Olmos Basin
651 Devine Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209
Lots of old trees and shade near a very expensive part of town. This area also floods dramatically with a heavy rain. Unfortunately some people make their way here that leave me to not recommend going alone if you are a female or member of a vulnerable population. Unless you stay off the isolated trails and remain where there are a lot of people. Good place to relax and take in the nature while being close to downtown, Broadway, and the Pearl areas. I recommend grabbing a bite to go at Central Market and then enjoying it here at the park.
Paper Tiger
2410 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
Catch a concert. Smaller venue with smaller acts. Indie vibes but I’ve seen well-known acts here.
Pasha Mediterranean Grill
Multiple locations
I like to order the Pasha Bowl with Basmati rice, Shirazi, extra Tzatziki, and Gyro. I really love the Naan with oil & spices here.
Pearl Brewery
303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215
This is one of the newest areas in downtown San Antonio. I call it the newer part of the River Walk. This is a very popular part of downtown. This used to be an abandoned beer brewery. Then it was redeveloped into a fantastic development. It contains Hotel Emma – a world-renowned hotel in the old brewery that still contains some of the old architecture and equipment. It also contains many unique restaurants, bars, and shops. There are great places to take photos, hang out, walk around, and meet with people. The River Walk is located on the backside of the development. I recommend this spot as one of the top spots to go if you are in town.
Phil Hardberger Park (East)
13203 Blanco Rd, San Antonio, TX 78216
Unfortunately the word is out about my favorite park in San Antonio. Lots of shade and walking trails. A big playground and a big, active dog park. Picnic tables near the parking. The new Robert L. B. Tobin Land Bridge over Wurzbach Parkway to connect to the west side of the park. The main problem here is that the parking fills up quickly on weekends with good weather. Better luck on weekday mornings. If there is no parking at the main entrance off Blanco, check out the parking at the dog park or way down off Voelcker Lane. This is a good spot to start biking. The park is part of miles of a connected park system. Usually lots of people, but I still wouldn’t recommend going here alone if you are a female or part of a vulnerable population. There are too many spots and too much time in between people passing for an opportunistic person to wait and pounce. Also, homeless are known to hang out in the section from Wurzbach Parkway going towards West Avenue. But if you go with at least one other adult, I’d highly recommend exploring this park. Lots to do.
Quadrangle Fort Sam Houston
1405 E Grayson St, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234
I guess this spot has a museum that I missed, but I went to photograph a family for a birth announcement. And the best part in my opinion was the peacock, other birds, and deer that are allowed to roam the grounds and will get very close to you. These grounds are located on a federal military base that allows access to this section to the public. Just check with them before heading over as rules and access are subject to whatever is going on with the base. Also, be careful what you bring in as you are subjecting yourself to potential search by the federal security onsite. Very safe on the base. But the area around the base is not a place to hang out except the more gentrified areas. I mention that just to not leave anything in your car that would appeal to opportunistic people.
Robber Baron Cave
155 Camellia Way, San Antonio, TX 78209
Did you know there is a cave in the middle of a residential neighborhood in San Antonio? This isn’t a proper tourist attraction in that it is literally right in the middle of a residential neighborhood. There are almost no signs and you can barely tell it is there. But if it is open, you’ll be able to walk down a little pathway that takes you to the entrance of the cave. You can’t go into the cave, but it is interesting and a bit spooky to think about all the history and possibilities. Just a quick 15-minute jump out of the car if you are in the area.
San Antonio Botanical Garden
555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209
Every time I’ve been here, I’ve never felt like I exhausted what there is to see. Every time I go, I feel like there is still more to discover. You could spend hours here or do a quick walkthrough. There is a very popular light experience during the holidays. I really recommend visiting especially when the wildflowers are in bloom, but really there is sometime to enjoy any time of the year. Some of my favorites have been the tropical plants, cactus, Japanese garden, oversized chairs, and the pond area. But there are plenty of good spots to check out inside. You can tell there is money and thought being invested in this experience. If you think you’ll go more than once a year, I’d recommend buying the membership. If you live in the area and want somewhere to go that feels safer to walk around alone, I’d really recommend coming here. There are lots of trails, the grounds are fenced, only people who pay have access, and it feels safe. This is another attraction in the downtown, Pearl, Broadway area. Please consider the Texas heat when scheduling your trip here. In the summer, you’ll want to go as early as possible in the morning.
San Antonio Museum of Art
200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
A great museum on the Riverwalk. Varied selection of periods.
San Antonio River Lock & Dam
510 Brooklyn Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
This is also one of my favorite things to do in San Antonio. You can go here to watch the boats go through the locks. I highly recommend this for children and people interested in construction, science, architecture, etc. You can view the locks for free. Or you can check with the river tour provider to catch a ride on a boat going through the locks. That is a different experience and also fun. This is also a good place to start walking on a more calm section of the Riverwalk either towards downtown or towards the Pearl. There are a lot of beautiful flowers on this section of the Riverwalk (when they are in bloom). There are homeless that wander into this area from time to time, but in general there are enough people around that it is safe to be by yourself during the daytime. Just might have to look for free parking for a few minutes – and don’t leave anything valuable out in the open in your vehicle.
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo
Frost Bank Center, 723 AT&T Center Parkway San Antonio, TX 78219
Fairgrounds, shopping, concerts, and rodeo events. This is a really big event that lasts about two weeks. Usually happens in February.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark
400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130
A destination spot. You’ll want to plan to spend at least a day if you go here. It is basically a water amusement park. Tons of slides, tubing, etc. My favorite was the lazy river where you can just float through some of the park. But there are usually a ton of people here in peak season. So since I’m generally averse to crowds and lines, I never really go here. But you have to do it at least once if you’re going to say you’ve been to New Braunfels or end up staying in the area. Just research and plan your trip in order to get the best experience. Look into parking, food and drink options, lockers, shoes for walking the park, and preparing for the heat. This is a very popular spot for large groups.
Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery
136 E Grayson St Suite 120, San Antonio, TX 78215
Hip elevated southern food located in the Pearl district. Fine dining in a relaxed and energized atmosphere. I’ve tried the fried snapper throats and stuffed shrimp.
Taco Palenque
Multiple locations
Yum! My new favorite place. I approve of the tortillas; not fluffy, but still craveable. I liked the beef fajita taco. But recently I order the Kid’s Bowl. It comes with two to three tortillas, picadillo, rice, and beans. I can usually get two meals out of it. For around $6. The best part of Taco Palenque is their salsa/condiment bar. I usually load up on their lettuce, cabbage slaw, cilantro, grilled onions, pickled onions, the salsa verde, the avocado salsa, and the brown salsa (sorry, I don’t know the exact name). I also like their chips. I haven’t tasted the whole menu, but so far it is my new favorite spot.
Tarka Indian Kitchen
427 TX-1604 Loop Ste 101, San Antonio, TX 78232
This might be considered Indian fast food, but I really like it. I recommend the samosas, garlic naan, mango lemonade, and coconut chicken curry.
Texas Roadhouse
Multiple locations
Still usually my top pick. I go for the sirloin, grilled shrimp, loaded mashed potatoes, green beans, salad with ranch, and fries. And of course you must eat the rolls with their great honey cinnamon butter. Really have never had a bad meal here. Good prices. Usually very busy.
Thai Café
11318 Perrin Beitel Rd, San Antonio, TX 78217
This is a great place for the price and the amount of food. But the ambiance could use an update. Sometimes it smells in here. I usually take the food to go. But the food is fabulous. They used to have a buffet that was fabulous. If they ever bring it back, definitely try it. My favorite dish here is the Yam Nua beef salad.
The Alamo
300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205
I’d say underwhelmed was a great word to describe my trip to the Alamo. But, it’s a must. You have to do it. You have to take your obligatory picture in front of the Alamo. I wouldn’t spend time going inside unless you’re into history and want background on the Alamo. The good news is that it is located in downtown San Antonio in the middle of everything. So you won’t have to go too much out of your way to do a quick visit.
The DoSeum
2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Super great place to take the kids. Tons of interactive activities.
The Original Panchito’s Mexican Restaurant
1705 S Zarzamora St, San Antonio, TX 78207
Where the locals eat. I enjoy the fideo.
The Original Panchito’s Mexican Restaurant
4100 McCullough Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212
Same owners as the other Panchito’s. However, this location has a completely different atmosphere. This restaurant has serviced tables and a bar. I like ordering the Poco de Mexico appetizer as a meal. I am also a fan of the shrimp nachos.
The Park at Pearl
312 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215
The Pearl in general is a great place to walk around and explore. It is also directly connected to the Riverwalk – so you can continue your walk downstream. But, this park is a cool little outdoor hangout spot in the thick of the Pearl. Lots of people watching, interesting architecture, a water feature, and cool place to bring your dog and sit outside. They even have tables setup next to electrical outlets. Good place to also hang out, grab a bite or a drink, and meet with friends. Also a good spot to meet a potential first-date. Lots of people around so it is usually safe. Just keep an eye out for opportunistic people that might take advantage of tourists letting their guards down. And don’t leave valuables visible in your vehicle.
The Rim
17703 La Cantera Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78257
Huge shopping center on the north side. Across from The Shops at La Cantera. Near Six Flags. Has almost every store you’re used to going to along with a great selection of restaurants and bars.
The Shops at La Cantera
15900 La Cantera Pkwy Suite 6698, San Antonio, TX 78256
Upscale shopping. Lots of restaurants also. Like a mall if all of the walkways were open air. Great place to walk around and people watch. I like going to the Barnes & Noble and Luciano Ristorante Italiano (for the Parma pizza).
Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
100 Auditorium Cir, San Antonio, TX 78205
Beautiful building on the River Walk. Lots of big names come through. More on the classical side of the arts, but not exclusively. Definitely recommend checking out what events will be happening here while you’re in town.
Tomatillos Cafe Y Cantina
1827 N Loop 1604 E, San Antonio, TX 78232
I haven’t been here in awhile but I used to go often and enjoyed the appetizers and botana platter.
Tommy’s Restaurant
Multiple locations
Very popular. I’m a fan of their breakfast tacos. My favorite thing to eat here is a potato & chorizo taco with avocado slices and their salsa (verde or rojo). I usually order horchata or iced tea.
Topgolf
5539 N Loop 1604 W, San Antonio, TX 78249
If you’ve never been to a Topgolf, it’s worth a trip at least once. You might start out hitting poorly, but once you get the hang of it then you’ll want to keep hitting. It’s basically a driving range on steroids. Meaning forget a bunch of old guys standing around. They have gamified the experience much like bowling alleys do. This is an entertainment zone good for date nights, hanging with friends, or getting groups together. There is food, drinks, an arcade, and many other things to keep the party going for awhile.
Torchy’s Tacos
Multiple locations
I’m not sure the restaurant as a whole lives up to the hype, but I definitely recommend the Hillbilly Queso and the tomatillo salsa. I’m not a huge fan of their tacos, but the ones I order are the Democrat and the Crossroads. They usually have a special taco of the month. I recommend checking those out when they have them.
Tower of the Americas
739 E César E. Chávez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205
The tallest man-made point in the city. Ride the elevator up for a huge view of the city. This is a tourist-trap so the ticket prices will not be cheap. But it’s one of those one-time must-do things. There is a rotating restaurant at the top of the tower.
Toyota Field
5106 David Edwards Dr, San Antonio, TX 78233
Home of the San Antonio FC. You can catch a professional soccer game at this location. The field is also surrounded by the S.T.A.R. Soccer Complex which has at least thirteen other soccer fields used by local teams.
Toyota Motor Manufacturing Visitor Center
1 Lone Star Pass, San Antonio, TX 78264
One of my favorite things to do in San Antonio. I’ve taken the tour of the manufacturing facility multiple times. You ride in a golf-cart type vehicle and are taken throughout the plant to see how the Tundra pickup trucks are manufactured from start to finish.
Triple C Steakhouse
698 E Hondo Ave, Devine, TX 78016
The real deal. Not complicated, not trying too hard. Just that ol’ good service and good food. Also has a salad bar. One of my top picks. Worth the drive. Small country town. Mounted animals on the walls. Still had a smoking section when I last visited. Ample parking. I believe they even have truck parking.
Whataburger
Multiple locations
I used to recommend and take pride in this company, but after they sold the company to a new owner, the service and food quality seems to have unfortunately taken a turn. That being said, I still recommend their jalapeño cheddar biscuit with sausage and egg (no cheese) for breakfast. Or their shakes.
World’s Largest Cowboy Boots
7400 San Pedro Ave, San Antonio, TX 78216
A huge statue of cowboy boots at North Star Mall. If you’re in the area, take a picture with the boots. 😊 But please be careful as the roads next to the boots are very busy.
HOLIDAY SIGHTS
Geoji – San Antonio Ice Rink
1603 Broadway, San Antonio, TX, USA
Billed as the “Largest Outdoor Ice Skating Rink in Texas”. Near The Pearl.
Rotary Ice Rink at Travis Park
301 E Travis St, San Antonio, TX 78205
San Antonio Botanical Garden – Lightscape
555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209
San Antonio Zoo – Zoo Lights
3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
Six Flags Fiesta Texas – Holiday in the Park
17000 IH-10 West, San Antonio, TX 78257
The San Antonio River Walk – Holiday Lights
Downtown San Antonio, TX 78205
University of the Incarnate Word – Light the Way
4301 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
Sarah Nyhan 