When you think of San Antonio, two things automatically come to mind: the Alamo and the River Walk. The River Walk was conceived in 1929. Downtown had serious flood problems, and Robert Hugman suggested that the city turn the San Antonio River into an asset rather than a hindrance. Hugman's brainchild has since become the essence of the city. The city's most popular attraction, it is often crowded and filled with children, partygoers, tourists and locals. In the heart of the River Walk is an area filled with restaurants, shops and nightclubs, punctuated by fountains and towering Cypress trees. The River Walk is particularly lively during Fiesta.

Sandwiched between Mission San Jose and Hot Wells locales in the heart of San Antonio's expansive wildernesses, this historical park was designated as a settlement for Catholic priests who were sent here as Spanish missionaries to spread the word of the holy bible among the natives. The park is spread over 948 acres (384 hectares) of blissful lawns that house the Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan and Mission Espada; the four historical missions which constitute what is known as the Mission Trail, all possessing very distinct and beautiful detailing in their designs and constructions. The Espada Aqueduct, Rancho de las Cabras, and the Ethel Wilson Harris House are some of the park's other notable attractions.

Trek into this park and you will feel like you have wandered far into the hill country. Only a short drive up IH-10 from downtown, Friedrich Wilderness Park offers 5.5 miles of hiking trails, which vary in terms of their difficulty levels. The park also boasts the most improved handicapped trails in the region. The more difficult trails can be a great workout, while the lower levels offer an easy walk in a beautiful setting. If you choose the highest level and find yourself being passed quickly by kindly older men don't despair—they are likely retired military officers from the nearby army base. In addition to its hiking trails, the park hosts a bird population so diverse that it attracts even hard-core bird enthusiasts. Guided interpretive hikes are available. This place is open evryday from 7:30 a.m onwards