San Antonio Stands Tall in Texas!

Story by MaxineSommers

In the heart of one of the most fascinating cities in the United States, San Antonio, Texas, stands tall while proudly displaying the spirit of the Southwest along with its historically rich culture. Make no mistake, this city is alive and well and living the good life.

When visiting San Antonio, the “Alamo” is always a must see for first time visitors. Located in the heart of the city, this spot continues to fascinate people as they are taken back in time to March 6, 1838, when 189 brave defenders died in their effort to save the Alamo after repeated attacks by Mexican General Santa Anna’s army. The Chapel and the Long Barracks are all that remain of the original fort. The Long Barracks Museum and Library are near the chapel—the museum contains mementos and relics from the Republic of Texas, as well as a narration on the fall of the Alamo. Contact: www.thealamo.org.

San Antonio’s River Walk is also a popular attraction. The “Paseo del Rio” is a little over two miles in length—to add to the beauty of the area the river banks are lined with cottonwood trees and lush green foliage. The water-way passes by a string of shops, restaurants and hotels. If your feet are on strike from too much walking, jump into a River Taxi. You can board these slick little boats from various locations along the river and ride from one end to the other. Boat rentals are also an option. For information: 1-210-244-5700.

St. Joseph’s Catholic Church (at 623 E. Commerce Street) is often described as the “gem” in the heart of San Antonio. It is housed in a simple but beautiful historic building that dates back 139 years.

This house of worship was founded in 1868, by a group of German Catholics and quickly became a thriving parish. As the years went on the building began to fall into disrepair until a complete renovation was completed in 1999. The church was painted, the pews restored, new carpets were installed and an altar designed and hand-carved to blend with the ornate baroque background. The stunning beauty of the little church has returned. Today this haven continues to be a magnet for people in the downtown area who need a peaceful place for prayer and contemplation.

San Antonio in April is one long FIESTA! Make your reservation far in advance since the “Fiesta San Antonio” is a HUGE event. The celebration goes on for ten days and includes fabulous fireworks displays, carnivals, spectacular sporting events, entertainment, marvelous ethnic feasts, art exhibits, and colorful parades. This fabulous celebration brings 3 million participants to San Antonio from around the world. Fiesta San Antonio is an experience extraordinaire … if you are in Texas in April this is where you should be! For information: 1-210-227-5191.

Do your interests run to wine and food? Is so, consider the San Antonio New World Wine & Food Festival—November 7–11, 2007. The festival showcases a wide array of interesting restaurants along with their talented chefs. Celebrity guests from across the United States and Mexico celebrate San Antonio as a cultural gateway into Mexico and South America. From the first Bloody Mary in the morning until the last after-dinner Brandy in the evening, the New World Wine and Food Festival is one spectacular extravaganza. Plan on dieting when you return home. For information: www.nwwff.org.

Further places of interest: The Tower of the Americas offers a wide-range view of the city from its tallest point because it is perched high in the sky on top a seven hundred and fifty foot tower. Visitors take a breathtaking trip up, up, up in glass-walled elevators to dine in the revolving Eyes Over Texas restaurant. You can also visit the observation deck to look down on the bustling city or go into the lounge to enjoy a Texas drink. It’s great fun to view the city from great heights but for those timid souls who like to keep their feet on the ground, a ground-level café awaits you along with a retail shop. For information: www.toweroftheamericas.com.

In the mood for a museum tour? The Witte Museum (1-210-357-900) is just a jump away from downtown. This time-honored museum features exhibits focusing on history, science and natural science and dinosaurs. One of the marvels that museum visitors can actually touch is a cast of an actual footprint left by a giant plant-eating dinosaur that is large enough for children to climb into—what fun!

Speaking of fun: the Market Square (El Mercado) is an exciting place to visit. At almost any time of day or evening it is alive with energetic visitors walking, talking and eating. El Mercado has 32 shops with 80 specialty shops in Farmers Market Plaza.

While there are a variety of restaurants at this location, Mi Tierra Café and Bakery holds its own as “the” place to dine. Always busy this establishment is open twenty-four hours a day, seven days a week as they serve their authentic Mexican food. When the restaurant is full the noise level of the patter of running feet and the twanging guitar music of the musicians are much in evidence. Conversation is difficult but diners don’t complain since they are too busy enjoying their meal.

A typical breakfast selection is: Huevos Rancheros—two eggs topped with Ranchero Sauce accompanied by bacon, ham, pork chops or pork patties, refried beans, breakfast potatoes and tortillas. I enjoyed the symphony of marvelous tastes but listening carefully as I ate I’m sure I heard my arteries clog. How about lunch, you ask? Here’s one of their favorites: The Monterrey Special consists of Cabrito—tender young baked Goat with guacamole, cheese enchilada, rice and refried beans.

Finally, a visit to San Antonio is not complete until you visit the charming Little Rhein Steak House—wonderful meals served in an historic 1847 building. The U.S. Department of Interior lists this venerable establishment in the National Registry of Historical Places. For many years this monument has held a place of honor on the picturesque River Walk. For information: 1 (210) 225-1212.

For hotel accommodations, the Marriott Rivercenter offers 86 luxurious suites and 915 guest rooms.

The hotel is located downtown and rises above the famous River Walk and adjoins the River Center Shopping Complex. For hotel information call: 1 (210) 223-1000.

Photos courtesy San Antonio Convention & Visitor's Bureau