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.
Located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, across from Travis Park, this beautiful church was home to the first United Methodist congregation in the city. Built in the mid-19th century, Travis Park United Methodist Church features a double-aisled sanctuary, finely detailed stained glass windows and majestic spires. Served by an ordained minister, Travis Park United Methodist Church welcomes people of all faiths for Sunday worship.
Designated a National Historic Landmark in 1975, Fort Sam Houston has been one of the integral parts in the military history of America. Hosting a large concentration of historic sites and monuments like the Pershing House and the glorious clock tower, the fort has served as headquarters of a number of departments of the United States Army. The fort was constructed in 1870, and its rolling Quadrangle, originally built as a supply depot, is perhaps one of the most appealing spots on the site. In 1886, however, it served as prison grounds for Apache Chief Geronimo and his warriors. Taking a place of pride in San Antonio, Fort Sam Houston is one of the most revered historic jewels of the country.
What a sight to behold - glass-walled elevators ascend more than 500 feet (152.4 meters) to the observation deck, providing panoramic views of the city. Standing a total of 750 feet (228.6 meters) tall, the tower was constructed for HemisFair, the 1968 World's Fair and symbolizes the progress made by the people of the Western Hemisphere. Soaring as if calling out to the skies, this imposing tower watches over San Antonio's dynamic cityscape. The tower greatly frames the contemporary tenor of downtown San Antonio and is crowned by an observation deck and a revolving restaurant. A stunning embodiment of architectural magnificence, the Tower of the Americas is an indelible present-day landmark of the country.
Established in 1630, San Pedro Springs Park is one of the oldest parks in the country. One of the main attractions here is the huge pool, a welcome oasis for kids and adults alike during the hot summer months. Take a walk through this beautiful park, or relax with a good book in the gazebo. The park is also home to paved bicycle tracks, picnic tables, a skate park and a tennis court among other facilities. Apart from the recreational activities, it also boasts of a few significant historical landmarks on its grounds.
The Spanish Governor's Palace is the "most beautiful building" in the city according to the National Geographic Society. This national historic landmark was originally the official residence of the Governor of the Spanish Province of Texas in the late 18th Century. Visiting the building is like taking a step back in time; it is replete with period furnishings, small rooms with low ceilings, and thick stucco walls. The cobblestone patio features beautiful foliage and a fountain. Most noteworthy is the original keystone over the entrance, which bears the carved, double-headed eagle from the Hapsburg coat of arms along with an inscription, in Spanish, reading "finished in 1749."