Housed in what was once the Lone Star Brewery, this museum boasts fairly comprehensive collections of both ancient and Asian art. The Nelson A. Rockefeller Center for Latin American Art displays what is probably one of the most impressive collections of pre-Columbian, Spanish Colonial, and Latin American modern and folk art in the United States. On Sundays, the museum sponsors educational workshops for children, in which they can create their own pieces of art to display at home. The museum also plays host to touring exhibits such as one featuring Egyptian artifacts on loan from Boston's Museum of Fine Arts.
Replete with a variety of flora and fauna, the Government Canyon State Natural Area features an incredible landscape dominated by towering trees and rocky canyons. Enjoy biking, hiking, and other exciting outdoor activities at this nature reserve. This park was made for adventure, offering 12,047 acres (4875 hectares) for visitors to explore. Take in the sight of rolling hills and rare wildlife as you explore 40 miles (64 kilometers) of trails. There's something here for everyone, whether you want to take a relaxing walk surrounded by exquisite nature or go for a more strenuous hike.
The San Antonio Botanical Garden has 33 acres (4046 square meters) of lush foliage and colorful flowers. A wonderful attraction, the garden is an exquisite year-round, with something always in bloom. A conservatory, formal gardens, "old-fashioned" gardens and native plant areas provide a variety of interests. This is definitely a must-see for both botany experts and garden-variety folks. If you're visiting in the spring, don't forget your antihistamines. The garden center features a luncheon cafe, a gift shop, guided tours, and adults' and children's classes. It is also available for private parties.
The city's science and natural history museum has garnered remarkable popularity which has skyrocketed even more with the adjacent HEB Science Tree house: a collection of interactive exhibits and activities for visitors of all ages. Permanent exhibits include ones featuring Native American cave paintings, archaeological artifacts, an Egyptian mummy, native Texan mammals, reptiles, and much more. Past touring exhibits have included gowns and memorabilia from Fiesta's Order of the Alamo coronation pageants, Dinosaurs Alive! and Microbes.
Situated along the San Antonio River and next to Brackenridge Park, this zoo is considered one of the finest in America, housing more than 3500 animals representing more than 700 species. The recently renovated big cat exhibit draws big crowds, as does the bird collection, which is one of the largest in the United States. Allow time for wandering around and exploring everything this zoo has to offer. San Antonio Zoo offers weekly educational programs and is also available for private events.
For lovers of history, architecture and antiques, this home is a must-see. Built in 1876, this three-story, French Second Empire-style home belonged to prominent citizen Edward Steves. The interior is decorated with original pieces from the era. Incidentally, the one-story River House behind the home housed the first indoor swimming pool in the city. Since 1954, the San Antonio Conservation Society has maintained the homestead as a historic house museum.
Originally built in the late 19th Century and used as a boarding house, Villa Finale got a second life when the building was bought by Walter Mathis. Walter Mathis restored the building to its past glory and started collecting artifacts. Both the home and the collection were given to the National Trust for Historic Preservation in 2004, and luckily now the public can view the stunning estate. When you tour this house you'll be able to see the lovely architectural design, as well as Texas artwork and European artifacts.
Housed in what was once the Lone Star Brewery, this museum boasts fairly comprehensive collections of both ancient and Asian art. The Nelson A. Rockefeller Center for Latin American Art displays what is probably one of the most impressive collections of pre-Columbian, Spanish Colonial, and Latin American modern and folk art in the United States. On Sundays, the museum sponsors educational workshops for children, in which they can create their own pieces of art to display at home. The museum also plays host to touring exhibits such as one featuring Egyptian artifacts on loan from Boston's Museum of Fine Arts.
The San Antonio Fire Museum is dedicated to educating visitors on the history of firefighting in the city, fire prevention, and fire safety. See antique fire engines, uniforms, and firefighting equipment on display. The museum also hosts educational programs for people of all ages. A donation is requested from adult visitors, but children under 12 are admitted for free.
Replete with a variety of flora and fauna, the Government Canyon State Natural Area features an incredible landscape dominated by towering trees and rocky canyons. Enjoy biking, hiking, and other exciting outdoor activities at this nature reserve. This park was made for adventure, offering 12,047 acres (4875 hectares) for visitors to explore. Take in the sight of rolling hills and rare wildlife as you explore 40 miles (64 kilometers) of trails. There's something here for everyone, whether you want to take a relaxing walk surrounded by exquisite nature or go for a more strenuous hike.
A very popular distillery and brewery in town, Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling is a fun place to go to, in order to spend some lazy moments relaxing with friends. Open on Saturdays, the brewery offers tours for group, giving them a feel of what goes into preparing the delicious brews that they serve. Apart from beer and whiskey, cocktails are also served in the tasting room.