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.
This former home of Jose Antonio Navarro is now one of the best gems of the city's history. Navarro was a prominent rancher and statesman and was one of only two native Texans of Mexican nationality to sign Texas' declaration of independence from Mexico. Built in 1848, the home was preserved by the San Antonio Conservation Society and now operates as a small museum conducting informative, interactive tours. Special activities are available for children as well.
Home of the San Antonio Spurs basketball team, the AT&T Center houses many sporting events in basketball and hockey, as well as the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. It is also a premier facility for concerts, with big-name acts in music and comedy regularly paying a visit to the AT&T Center stage.
The historical center and heart of the city's Mexican culture, the square is the largest Mexican marketplace outside of Mexico. Here you can dine on Mexican food at one of several cafes, enjoy the lively sounds of Mariachi bands and buy wonderful blankets, clothes, leather and metal goods and much more, imported from just south of the border. The square plays host to many cultural events and fairs throughout the year, including Fiesta del Mercado (Party of the Market) in April and Dia De Los Muertos (Day of the Dead) in November.
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch offers a unique safari experience, minus the trip to Africa. It features a petting zoo and a nursery, but is highlighted by the drive-through sanctuary. Park guests can purchase animal food to take with them on their journey through the park. Camels, along with 65 other animal species from six continents, roam freely throughout the park. The less timid animals will approach visitors and, if allowed, will stick their heads inside the vehicles and eat whatever they can find. Visitors can also encounter the endangered addax antelope, in addition to zebras, llamas, ostriches, giraffes and lemurs, among many other animals.
Despite its name, you won't find any feed or farm equipment for sale at John T. Floore's Country Store. This music venue has hosted many renowned musical artists and launched the careers of several others. Willie Nelson, B.B. King, Bob Dylan, and Elvis Presley have all performed here. Munch on some tamales from the cafe and sip on a Lone Star while enjoying world-class performances at this historic Texas venue.