San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country: Culture and Relaxation

Any visit to San Antonio could very well begin at the legendary River Walk in downtown San Antonio. This scenic and dynamic pedestrian walkway provides easy access to many of the city’s hottest attractions, including locally owned shops, world-class hotels, restaurants serving delicious food, and fascinating museums. You can also take a leisurely and picturesque boat tour on the San Antonio River, or even hop on a water taxi to reach your destination.

No trip to San Antonio is complete without a visit to the famed Alamo in the center of town. Founded in 1718 as a Spanish Roman Catholic mission, the Alamo played a central role in Texas history. Most famously, it was the site of a 13-day battle between Mexico and U.S. settlers in 1836. Considered a shrine to Texas liberty, today the 4.2-acre complex houses a shrine, barracks and collection of artifacts. This is a must-see destination, honoring over 300 years of extraordinary Texas history.

You can also explore San Antonio’s colorful history at one of the many museums this remarkable city has to offer. The Briscoe Western Art Museum showcases an amazing collection of art and artifacts from the American West, for example, and the Witte Museum and South Texas Heritage Center feature exhibits on science, natural history and, of course, South Texas culture and history.

Nearby San Marcos is home to two incredible outlet malls, the San Marcos Premium Outlets and Tanger Outlets. With over 350 stores, you’re sure to satisfy all your shopping needs with prices that will have you coming back for more. It’s definitely worth the trip. San Marcos is considered the largest outlet shopping center in the USA.

When you’re looking for a slower pace, relax in picturesque Texas Hill Country, where small-town charm, scenic countryside and endless outdoor activities greet you. Discover the area's unique culture, exceptional attractions and delectable cuisine. After a beautiful day outdoors, check out Fredericksburg, for luxurious accommodations and award-winning wineries. Here, you’ll have your choice from over 400 bed-and-breakfasts and 40 different vineyards. Make sure to spend some time on Main Street to select the perfect souvenir; this area is known for its one-of-a-kind pieces by local artisans.

A vacation in San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country wouldn’t be complete without a trip to famous Luckenbach, a small town with a big history. In its heyday, country music legends came to party and perform, and the No. 1 hit song “Luckenbach, Texas” was written here. Today, the legendary Dancehall remains a tribute to old-time Texas and is still the best place to grab a cold beer, dance a little two-step and celebrate that authentic Southern charm.

With storied history, diverse cuisine, scenic vineyards and quaint towns to explore, San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country offer visitors the perfect cultural escape.