Sightseeing in San Antonio - what to see. Complete travel guide

San Antonio is situated in the southern part of Texas. Widely known as a major industrial center and an important tourist destination, the city attracts nearly 20 million travelers a year. A river with the same name passes through San Antonio. There is an incredibly beautiful promenade built along the river. Naturally, this part of the city is the most picturesque and liveliest.

San Antonio is one of the cities that managed to preserve its Spanish culture including language, music, architecture and lifestyle. It is the first visited by those who come to Texas as besides its unique culture it is also attractive with lots of shops and facilities for entertainment.

San Antonio is the place where first Spanish explorers landed in the late 17th century. That significant event took place on June 13, 1691. This day falls on a religious holiday, the Day of St. Antonio, which is traditionally celebrated in Spain. That is the reason why Spanish explorers decided to name the new area and the river after the Catholic saint. Already in 1716, it was decided to create a new civilian settlement in the area. A military garrison was also established there. Gradually, residential buildings and farms started appearing around the garrison. Copyright www.orangesmile.com

The rapidly growing city faced many important events in its history, including a fierce war for the independence and a new influx of immigrants. Until now, the multinational culture remains one of the distinctive features of the modern city. It has found reflection almost everywhere: in unique architecture and cultural traditions, in cooking and contemporary lifestyle of the city’s residents. San Antonio has many interesting national symbols. Its cultural calendar has a striking number of colorful festivals and other events.

In summer, the festival Fiesta Noche del Rio is traditionally organized in the city. River Walk waterfront is the usual venue for the event. Guests of the festival have an opportunity to watch spectacular dance performances and learn how to dance flamenco. Many original folklore events take place in the city during the festival.

The Spanish heritage of the city is presented in the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. Beyond taking in the sights and sounds of San Antonio, tourists can sample some of its world famous Tex-Mex cuisine in many fine restaurants located throughout the city. Mexican restaurants are abundant in virtually all parts of town. Most of them are relatively inexpensive. Some outstanding examples of Tex-Mex eateries include Jacala on West Avenue on the near Northwest side, La Hacienda de Los Barrios on the North East side, and Los Barrios on the near North side of town.

There is one more unusual national symbol. It is the spicy “chili” dish. It is believed San Antonio was the place in America where the dish was cooked for the first time here. In 1893, the world gastronomic exhibition took place in Chicago, and residents of San Antonio participated in it. This is when judges and public saw the fragrant and spicy chili for the first time. Nowadays, the meal is well known to all residents of the United States and is very popular.

The modern city with a rich history has a lot of unique attractions. The main historical monument of Texas – the fortress of Alamo Mission - is located in the city. For local residents, it is a symbol of the long-awaited independence. The history of the fortress and its amazing transformation is very unusual. San Antonio is famous for its original theme parks. Therefore, it never ceases to attract travelers with children. The choice of attractions and places of interest in the city is absolutely amazing. The hotel infrastructure of San Antonio will also please tourists.

To the service of modern travelers, there are several unique historic hotels, some of which are record holders from The Guinness Book of World Records. Fairmount Hotel is one of these exceptional places. Initially, it was opened in 1906. However, not everyone knows that the legendary hotel has changed its location since 1985. It was literally moved three blocks, so it didn’t hinder the further development of the city’s infrastructure. Fairmount got into the Guinness Book of World Records as the heaviest building in the world that was moved to such an impressive distance. San Antonio is a unique city with amazing symbols and traditions, and everyone who loves travel should definitely visit it.

San Antonio is an excellent destination for all fans of active recreation and interesting excursions. Unique San Fernando Cathedral remains one of the main landmarks of the city. It is also one of the oldest religious landmarks in the United States. The building of the gorgeous church took place in the middle of the 18th century. The cathedral still has some architectural elements that belong to its original design. At the beginning of the 20th century, one of the largest renovations took place at the church. This is when it got unique stained-glass windows.

There is one more historical landmark not far from the cathedral – the Bexar County Court House. It is a fabulous example of the Roman Renaissance architecture. Sandstone is the main material used in the building of this fabulous building. The court house was finished in 1896. Travelers with children and fans of active recreation will find it incredibly interesting and exciting to visit the Marine World entertainment complex that is located on the outskirts of the city. This center includes an aqua park with thrilling rides and swimming pools. There are also frequent thematic programs, performances, and even mesmerizing whale shows.