A lone shining star
San Antonio dazzles visitors with its incomparable history and spirit
By Julie C. Northrup -- Industrial Distribution, 4/1/1999
The setting of the 15th Annual NAHAD Convention offers participants the opportunity to experience a unique culture without the requisite passport or the inevitable jet lag.San Antonio embodies the patchwork of ethnicity and intense national pride inherent to its development. The varied influences of Native Americans, African Americans, and Germans -- to name a few -- converge among reverberations of Old Mexico, the Deep South and the Wild West. While these outside influences have helped shape the character of this city, you'll find no identity crisis here. Texans like to think of themselves as citizens of the National Republic of Texas, and the inhabitants of San Antonio are no exception. Indeed, San Antonio's nickname -- The Alamo City -- reflects its staunch battle for independence.
Native Americans were the first to inhabit the territory surrounding what is now known as the San Antonio River. They were drawn to the river's "clear waters" and thus dubbed it "Yanaguana." (This name persists in various capacities such as Yanaguana Cruises -- the river's floating transportation system.) Six different flags of sovereignty succeeded the Native Americans -- Spain, France, Mexico, the Republic of Texas, the Confederacy, and the United States -- a claim no other state can make.
Spanish explorers and missionaries first arrived here in 1691 on the feast day of St. Anthony, so naming the area San Antonio. The official founding of the city was in 1718, upon the establishment of the first Spanish garrison, San Antonio de Valero, named for its founder, Father Antonio Olivares. This mission later became known as the Alamo.
After brief French occupation, Mexico (under the rule of General Antonio Lopez Santa Anna) was the next to lay claim to the territory, eventually spawning two of the state's most notorious battles, the Texas Revolution (from 1835-1836) and the Mexican War (between the U.S. and Mexico from 1836-1847). Perhaps the most defining of these struggles came in 1836 when 189 American colonists, led by "King of the Wild Frontier" Davy Crockett, were massacred while defending the Alamo against some 4,000 of Santa Anna's troops. "Remember the Alamo" became the battle cry of the Revolution. Despite this infamous loss, independence was secured on April 21 of that same year when Sam Houston led troops to victory in a battle at San Jacinto. The Republic of Texas was thus established and the Lone Star flag ruled for almost a decade. In 1845, Texas became the 28th state in the Union. In 1861, Texas seceded from the Union and joined the Confederacy -- the state's last obstacle to peace.
It is this tumultuous history that ultimately defines Texas, and San Antonio in particular. Strong military ties and a hard-earned national pride are part of the fabric of this booming, modern-day city of over one million. And close to seven million tourists a year come to be a part of it. There are four Air Force Bases in the metropolitan area and the Alamo is in the heart of downtown. Four of the missions that comprise the San Antonio Missions National Park are just a short drive away, as is Fort Sam Houston, where military legends such as Pershing, Stilwell and Eisenhower have served.
Despite its preservation of history, San Antonio is also a hip, cosmopolitan city. Its five universities impart a youthful energy which bustles in evidence along the two-and-a-half mile River Walk, 20 feet below street level on the banks of the San Antonio River. Here you can stroll along cobblestone paths, cruise down the river, and indulge in al fresco dining and shopping. Night owls will find plenty of entertainment in the many clubs that dot the area.
Those interested in filling their leisure time aesthetically will be happy to learn that San Antonio is home to a host of museums and galleries. Two of the many notable establishments are the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) and the renowned McNay Art Museum. Both are housed in dwellings equally impressive as their extensive collections.
The 80-degree average temperature this time of year will most likely lure visitors outdoors and what better place for enjoying the sunshine than on the fairway? San Antonio has experienced a boom in golf course construction in the past six years. Be sure to hit La Cantera Golf Club, cited as the best new public course in the country by Golf Digest in 1995.
If the kids are along on this trip, a host of theme parks including Six Flags Fiesta Texas and Sea World of Texas along with the San Antonio Zoo -- ranked as one of the best in the country -- are sure to dazzle them.
And convention-goers have the good fortune of paying a visit to San Antonio during the 108th San Antonio Fiesta, taking place from April 16-25. The city's biggest party offers music, pageants, feasts, flower shows, house tours, cultural exhibits, parades and fireworks. If fun for the whole family can't be found here, you may as well pack your bags now!
ATTRACTIONS
River Walk (Paseo del Rio)
The Paseo del Rio, in the heart of downtown, is the pride of the city. Lush green subtropical foliage lines the banks of this peaceful jade-green historic river. Cobblestone walkways lead visitors to the river-level restaurants, shops and night-clubs.
Cruise Tour Rides: Ticket outlets exist on the river or you can call the Yanaguana Reservation Line at (210) 244-5700 or (800) 417-4139 for certain time reservations and any further information on cruise services.
Charters: Please call for rates. Dining Cruises/Party Boats: Contact any restaurant, caterer, or hotel along the River Walk to arrange for breakfast, lunch, and dinner cruises, or call Yanaguana Cruises at (210) 244-5700.
Tower of the Americas
HemisFair Park (Adjacent to the Convention Center)
(210) 299-8615
This is a great place to get your bearings. From an observation level of 579 feet, the Tower of the Americas offers visitors an inspiring view of San Antonio. Completed in 1968, the Tower was part of HemisFair, the Texas World's Fair, for which it was the theme structure. The Tower is still one of the tallest free-standing structures in the Western Hemisphere.
SAN ANTONIO MISSIONS NATIONAL PARK
2202 Roosevelt Ave.
(210) 534-8833
The Spanish established missions in North America as a peaceful attempt to convert Native Americans. The highest concentration of these missions existed in Texas. Many of these in the greater San Antonio area have been well preserved.
The Alamo
300 Alamo Plaza
Mission San Antonio de Valero, popularly known as the Alamo, was the earliest of the chain of San Antonio missions established in 1718. This mission was the site of the infamous Battle of the Alamo, which ended on March 6, 1836, with the death of 189 Texas patriots.
Mission Concepcion
One of the oldest unrestored stone churches in the United States. The mission was established in 1731, and the present stone church took more than 20 years to complete.
Mission San Jose
This mission was established in 1720. To commemorate the Texas Centennial in 1936, federal and state agencies combined efforts to reconstruct the surrounding compound and portions of the parish church to its former image of "Queen of the Texas Missions."
Mission Espada
One of the early East Texas missions founded in 1690, Espada was relocated to San Antonio in 1731. By 1778, however, the original adobe church structure was in ruin and the principal stone church was never completed. The chapel as we know it today, built originally as the sacristy for the stone church but later converted into the present structure, dates from about 1884. The Moorish-styled, arched doorway, however, dates from about 1780.
Mission San Juan
Mission San Juan Capistrano, moved to San Antonio in 1731 from an earlier location in East Texas, never saw the completion of its stone church. Today, the original friary serves as a museum which displays artifacts from the active days of the mission.
THEME PARKS
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
17000 IH-10 W. at La Cantera Parkway
(210) 697-5050
This 200-acre theme park celebrates Texas cultures and music through four themed areas -- German, 50s Rock 'n Roll, 1920s Southwest, and Hispanic. The Park is the home of the world famous "Rattler" roller coaster, one of the world's tallest and fastest wooden coasters.
Sea World of Texas
10500 Sea World Dr.
(210) 523-3611
The world's largest marine life park with more than 25 spectacular shows, educational exhibits, rides and family attractions.
Splashtown
3600 North Pan Am Expressway
(210) 227-1100
This family waterpark has something fun for every age, from Kids Kove for the little ones, to the Siesta del Rio, a relaxing ride down a lazy river. Splashtown offers a dozen major water rides plus an extensive kiddie area.
Texas Adventure
307 Alamo Plaza
(210) 227-0388
Texas Adventure is an action packed multi-media show portraying the story of Texas independence with the Alamo drama as its centerpiece. Utilizing an array of state-of-the-art special effects found only in a few elite theme parks, the proprietary "Encountarium F/X Theatre" format surrounds the guest with an environment that recreates the touch and feel of being present as history was made.
MUSEUMS
Air Force History and Traditions Museum
Orville Wright Drive (Lackland Air Force Base)
(210) 671-3055
Featuring aviation history, the Traditions and History Museum maintains a collection of rare airplanes and their components, from engines to machine guns.
Buckhorn Saloon & Museum
600 Lone Star Boulevard
(210) 270-9400
Founded in 1881 by the Freidrich Family, The Buckhorn Saloon & Museums have grown into an internationally renowned tourist attraction showcasing the Buckhorn Saloon, Hall of Horns, Hall of Fins, Hall of Feathers, Hall of Texas History Wax Museum and the O. Henry House.
Cowboy Museum
209 Alamo Plaza
(210) 229-1257
Visit a replica of a Western town and see how the people of the Old West lived. There are many artifacts to see in this exciting walk through the history of the Old West.
Dinosaur World
622 N.W. Loop 410, Ste. 212
(210) 349-5566 local or (800) 468-0614
San Antonio's newest attraction is both a museum and retail store. It features numerous dinosaur skulls, bones, claws and teeth. In addition, Dinosaur World features the largest selection of authentic fossils in San Antonio, along with fossil replicas, rocks and minerals, gifts, toys, science kits, books, posters and hundreds of other items.
Fort Sam Houston Museum
(210) 221-1886
This national historic landmark exhibits trace U.S. Army history in San Antonio from 1845 to the present. Historic 500-acre fort includes the Quadrangle, built in 1876.
Guenther House
205 East Guenther
(210) 227-1061
The Guenther House is a museum of historic items related to the development of Pioneer Flour Mills. Offers a river mill, impressive collection of Dresden plates, gift shop and restaurant.
Hangar 9/Edward H. White Museum
Brooks Air Force Base
(210) 536-2203 or (210) 531-9767
Hangar 9 is the oldest aircraft hangar in the Air Force. It houses the Museum of Flight Medicine, which contains exhibits concerning the history of the base, the development of manned flight and the evolution of aerospace medicine. It also includes the Flight Nursing Annex, which is dedicated to the history of flight nurses.
Hertzberg Circus Museum
210 Market St.
(210) 207-7810 or (210) 207-7819
This unusual museum contains more than 20,000 items of Big Top memorabilia, including a priceless collection of antique circus posters, Tom Thumb's carriage and an intricately detailed scale model of the three ring circus.
McNay Art Museum
6000 N. New Braunfels (at U.S. 81 Business-Austin Highway)
(210) 824-5368
The former estate of Marian Koogler McNay is a private museum containing a varied collection of post-impressionist paintings (Van Gogh, Monet, Picasso, Matisse, O'Keefe, Goya, Renoir and Bourdelle), early New Mexican arts and crafts, plus Gothic and Medieval collections. A highlight of the McNay is its charming patio and gardens.
Ripley's Believe It or Not! & Plaza Theatre of Wax
301 Alamo Plaza
(210) 224-9299
Plaza Theatre of Wax features over 225 lifelike figures from Hollywood, Horrors, History and Religion. Ripley's Believe It or Not! exhibits over 500 one-of-a-kind artifacts collected by famous cartoonist Robert Ripley.
San Antonio Museum of Art
200 W. Jones Ave.
(210) 978-8100
The blend of glass elevators, skylights and skywalk in the former Lone Star Brewery's castle-like building is a sight no visitor to San Antonio can afford to miss. Art collections range from ancient art to the most contemporary, including magnificent Greek and Roman sculpture, and Latin American folk art. The Asian section has been expanded to include Asian sculpture as well as Chinese, Japanese and Korean Art. The museum is listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
Spanish Governor's Palace
105 Plaza De Armas
(210) 224-0601
This palace was labeled "the most beautiful building in San Antonio" by the National Geographic Society, and is now a national historic landmark in the downtown area. It once housed the officials of the Spanish Province of Texas.
The Steves Homestead Museum
509 King William
(210) 225-5924
Located in the King William Historic District, this Victorian French Second Empire design, three-story home was built for Edward Steves, in 1876, and has been furnished in a late 19th-century style. The River House, a one-story brick structure located at the rear of the property, housed the first natatorium (inside swimming pool) in San Antonio.
Texas Transportation Museum
11731 Wetmore Road, in McAllister Park
(210) 490-3554
Museum filled with antique pedicabs, horse drawn and gas powered vehicles, three model railroads, technology and physics displays.
U.S. Army Medical Department Museum
At the corner of Harry Wurzbach and Stanley Road (Fort Sam Houston)
(210) 221-6358
The museum collection consists of Army medical equipment (including captured medical equipment from Germany, Japan, Russia, China and Vietnam), uniforms, artwork, photographs, and scale models. The museum has a significant collection of American prisoner of war memorabilia and equipment which illustrates the continuing care and "service above self", the foundation of Army medicine.
Witte Museum
3801 Broadway
(210) 357-1900
A city landmark for 70 years, this vibrant regional museum features history, science, the humanities, exciting hands-on exhibits of Texas history, natural science and anthropology, changing exhibits and family programs.
THEATERS
Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center
1300 Guadalupe St.
(210) 351-7787
The Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center brings its artistic vision alive through six art disciplines: visual arts, media arts, theatre arts, literature, dance and music. The scheduled events are guaranteed to instill Latino pride, increase your awareness and appreciation for Latino heritage as well as provide excellent artistic entertainment.
IMAX Theater
849 East Commerce #483 (Rivercenter Mall)
(210) 225-4629 or (800) 354-IMAX
"Alamo -- The Price of Freedom," is a 45-minute docudrama which tells the story of the 189 defenders, Texan and Tejano, who chose to die for freedom.
Majestic Theater
230 E. Houston
(210) 226-5700; Tickets: (210) 226-3333
One of the few remaining vintage atmospheric movie palaces, the Majestic was restored in 1989. It is the home of the San Antonio Symphony and the Majestic Broadway Series.
GARDENS
Brackenridge Park
A 433-acre refuge in the heart of the city in which you'll find the Japanese Tea Gardens, the San Antonio zoo and more.
Japanese Tea Gardens
3800 North St. Mary's St.
(210) 821-3120
Winding pebble walkways, stone bridges, a waterfall and tranquil pools highlight these lush gardens.
San Antonio Botanical Gardens
555 Funston
(210) 821-6447
This 33-acre garden represents, in miniature, the diverse Texas landscape -- from Hill Country wild flowers to the formal rose gardens of East Texas. A biblical and children's garden, as well as a fragrance garden are also featured. The Lucile Halsell Conservatory is a $6.5 million conservatory complex with 90,000 sq. ft. of climate controlled structures including an exhibition hall, tropical house, desert house, palm house, fern room and an orangery.
San Antonio Zoological Gardens and Aquarium
3903 North St. Mary's St.
(210) 734-7183
Ranked as one of the best zoos in the nation exhibiting over 3,000 animals of 700 species. Situated at the headwaters of the San Antonio River, the zoo encompasses 25 landscaped acres.
SHOPPING
King William Historic Area
(A 25-block area near downtown on the south bank of the San Antonio River.)
In the late 1800s, the King William District was the most elegant residential area in the city. Prominent German merchants originally settled the area. It was zoned as the state's first historic district, and has once again become a fashionable neighborhood.
A self guided walking tour brochure for the King William area is available from the San Antonio Conservation Society, 107 King William Street at (210) 224-6163.
La Villita
418 Villita
(210) 207-8610
La Villita, which means "little town," is a unique arts and crafts community. Twenty-six shops with working artisans, three restaurants, a Post Office and The Old San Antonio Exhibit (located in Bolivar Hall) which houses a small collection of art objects, artifacts and symbols relevant to the history of La Villita are located in this beautifully landscaped historic district.
Market Square -- El Mercado
514 W. Commerce
(210) 207-8600
Visitors can browse through 32 shops at El Mercado -- a unique shopping area patterned after an authentic Mexican market, and the 80 specialty shops in Farmers Market Plaza.
RESTAURANTS
American
Boudro's
421 E. Commerce
(210) 224-8484
This restaurant was cited by Esquire magazine as one of the best new restaurants in the U.S. Features seafood, steak and Southwest cuisine, such as smoked shrimp enchiladas and steaks grilled over pecan wood.
Hard Rock Cafe
111 W. Crockett St.
(210) 224-ROCK
The legendary rock 'n roll roll restaurant serves American-style cuisine offering hamburgers, salads, sandwiches, decadent desserts and other specialties. Outside seating is available.
Kangaroo Court
512 River Walk
(210) 224-6821
Right on the banks of the famous River Walk, the Kangaroo Court is full of fun, entertainment and delicious food. Stop by and see why it's one of San Antonio's favorite River Walk restaurants.
Little Rhein Steak House
231 S. Alamo
(210) 225-2111
Texans know their beef, that's why they dine at the Little Rhein. Offering only the best in steaks, chops and seafood.
Morton's of Chicago Steak House
849 E. Commerce
(210) 228-0700
Its reputation for first-rate steaks speaks for itself. Morton's is also one of the growing number of establishments that welcomes the trendy, cigar crowd.
Presidio
245 E. Commerce, Ste. 101
(210) 472-2265
The Mediterranean meets the Gulf of Mexico with our "Ultimate Meeting Pot" specialties of slow roasted Prime Rib and Snapper Ancho. Enjoy riverside or courtyard dining at the most spectacular, scenic and spacious restaurant on the River Walk.
Ruth's Chris Steak House
7720 Jones Maltzberger
(210) 821-5051
This 34-year-old chain serves rich, marbled U.S.D.A. prime beef and other premium cuts aged to exacting standards. Also renowned for its seafood, fresh vegetables, seven kinds of potatoes and homemade desserts.
Tower of the Americas Restaurant
222 HemisFair Park
(210) 223-3101
The revolving Tower Restaurant offers a breathtaking view of San Antonio complemented by great food.
Zuni Bar & Grill
511 River Walk
(210) 227-0864
Enjoy Southwestern cuisine while overlooking the River Walk. Critically acclaimed by Texas Monthly, the Wall Street Journal and San Antonio Express News.
Barbecue
Country Line
111 West Crockett
(210) 229-1941
Serving up the biggest, leanest, most consistently delicious barbeque in San Antonio. Also serving grilled steaks, kabobs, salads, margaritas and more.
Tony Roma's Famous for Ribs
849 E. Commerce
(210) 225-7662
This place for ribs and kids was judged "Best Ribs in America" -- it's as simple as that.
Continental
Fig Tree
515 Villita
(210) 224-1976
Offering Beef Wellington, Chateau-briand, lobster, and fresh salmon in a romantic location at the River Walk.
Mad Dogs
123 Losoya
(210) 222-0220
Famous for British ales and the largest selection of single malt scotches in Texas. Sample traditional pub fare at its best. Food served until midnight. DJ and dancing nightly.
Rendez-Vous Cafe
(210) 224-1031
522 River Walk
A casual, Texas-style café, featuring steak, seafood, chicken fried steak, Po' Boys and a 46-oz. "Remember the Alamo" margarita.
Italian
Michelino's
521 River Walk
(210) 223-2939
Italian specialties, pasta and pizza made from the freshest veal, poultry, beef and seafood are complemented by flavorful sauces, focaccia bread, tantalizing desserts and superb wine selections.
Paesano's
111 W. Crockett
210-227-2782
Pricey but excellent. Their signature dish is the Shrimp Paesano.
Pieca d'Italia
502 River Walk
(210) 227-5511
Fine Italian dining in a casual setting, with fast service. Serving lasagna, chicken romano, spaghetti, cannoli, Texas-size pizza and Italian sandwiches such as Stromboli d'Italia.
Mexican
Cafe Ole
521 River Walk
(210) 223-2939
Beef, chicken or shrimp fajitas served on a sizzling skillet with all the traditional condiments. Flavorful quesadillas, enchiladas, Chicken San Antonio, ice cream tacos and award-winning margaritas.
Casa Rio Mexican Restaurant
430 E. Commerce
(210) 225-6718
San Antonio-style Mexican food served on the banks of the River Walk since 1946. Dinner boat parties and banquet facilities available.
La Margarita Mexican Restaurant & Oyster Bar
120 Produce Row
(210) 227-7140
Home of world-famous sizzling fajitas.
La Paloma del Rio
215 Losoya St.
(210) 223-3818
Superb Mexican food in a casual River Walk atmosphere. The varied menu includes Tex-Mex, and favorites from our own family recipes.
The Original Mexican Restaurant
528 River Walk
(210) 224-9951
Just like the name says, Mexican food at its best! And it's on the River Walk! Check out their menu, then stop by for a refreshing margarita and excellent food.
Oriental
Hunan River Garden
506 River Walk
(210) 222-0808
Enjoy Hunan and Cantonese cuisine at the only Chinese restaurant on the River Walk. Outside patio or inside dining available. Daily lunch and dinner specials.
Seafood
Bayous Riverside Restaurant
517 N. Presa
(210) 223-6403
Featuring oysters, shrimp, fresh Gulf fish specialties, Creole cuisine and cocktails in a three-level setting overlooking the River Walk.
Texas
Lone Star Cafe
237 Losoya
(210) 223-9374
The only authentic Texas-style steak house on the River Walk, offering steaks, baked potatoes and onion rings served with your favorite Texas beer and wine. Live country music Thurs. and Fri. Night.
The Republic of Texas Restaurant
526 River Walk
(210) 226-6256
Many claim this joint has the best burger on the River Walk, not to mention an outstanding chicken-fried steak. You can sit inside or right on the River Walk for great people watching!
*Listings compiled from the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau and the Heart of San Antonio.
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