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.
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.
Although construction did not begin until 1749, this cathedral was established in 1731 by the Canary/Spanish Islanders, who sought to build their own place of worship. It is one of the oldest cathedral sanctuaries in the United States. The famous Alamo defender James Bowie was married here and during the siege of the Alamo Santa Anna used it as an observation post. Notable historic figures Bowie, William Travis and Davy Crockett are buried here. The cathedral still draws huge crowds for Mass and always welcomes visitors.
This Spanish-Mediterranean mansion, located in the heart of well-to-do Alamo Heights, houses impressive artworks from 19th and 20th Century America and Europe, in addition to one of the largest theater arts collections in the United States. Its grounds are as lovely as its collections, boasting fountains, streams, goldfish ponds and Japanese-style gardens. Recent touring exhibitions include works by Georgia O'Keefe, a collection of pop art and American Pictorial Photography. The auditorium and portions of the McNay Art Museum are available for private functions.
One of the city's largest parks, Brackenridge offers more family fun than one day can accommodate. Start with the musical carousel featuring 60 antique horses. Then try the Skyride, which consists of Swiss manufactured cable cars that lift visitors to enjoy the view of the park as well as the city skyline. If ground transportation is more your speed, opt for a ride on the miniature train that runs through a 3.5-mile (5.6-kilometer) stretch of the park. For water travel, cruise around the upper part of the San Antonio River in paddle boats. Other facilities include a municipal golf course, a driving range, bike trails and picnic areas.
Originally the Mission San Antonio de Valero, the Alamo is by far the most famous historical site in Texas, playing a significant role in Texas' quest for independence from Mexico. Under the command of Col. William Travis, 189 Texan soldiers bravely defended this fort for 13 days before finally succumbing to Santa Anna's massive Mexican army in early 1836. The chapel and the Long Barrack are all that remains of the fort. Saved from civilian apathy by the Daughters of the Republic of Texas, the mission is now a museum containing relics from the era. Narrated tours are available.
Saint Paul's square provides a glimpse into San Antonio's rich past dating back to 1877. This historic district once played host to nightlife and other entertainment activities and featured artists like Louis Armstrong. The venue where culture and cuisine meet—Sunset Station—is nestled here. This district has a close association with the African American community.
Originally founded in Chicago, Unit B has been focusing on Texas artists since it relocated to San Antonio in 2006. See the works of contemporary local and national artists in a unique atmosphere. Unit B is located in a converted bungalow, giving the space an intimate feel. Sometimes exhibits even extend to the lawn and the house itself, making for quite a sight.
This Catholic church boasts a large and active congregation in the heart of North San Antonio. With daily mass, numerous parish committees and strong community organizations, there is something with which everyone can become involved. In addition to regular church services and activities, Blessed Sacrament offers a private school, day care and an after-school program for children.
If you are looking for a contemporary Christian church service, then BRCC might just be the place for you. Pastor David Saathoff delivers messages from the Bible and relates them to today's society. BRCC's demographic is younger than most churches. The services use PowerPoint slides as well as video and visual presentations to help convey the message, and the music has a definite rock flair. BRCC may not cater to the traditional church-going crowd, but in this case that's not necessarily a bad thing. Casual attire is accepted, and even encouraged, and the music leans more towards rock and roll (no traditional organ/piano music here). BRCC also has a children's program called Promised Land, which runs concurrent with the adult service.
Time Magazine has referred to Trinity Baptist Church as "The Boom Church" because it is one of America's fastest-growing churches. Its humble beginnings date back some 50 years to 1949, when a small group of Christians gathered with a vision of creating a church in Laurel Heights. Today, the congregation exceeds 8,000 members. The church is led by world-renowned evangelist Dr. Buckner Fanning. Billy Graham calls Dr. Fanning "the ideal pastor...a pastor evangelist whom God has greatly used." The church offers two identical worship services on Sunday mornings, one at 8a and the other at 11a. Bible study takes place in between the two services at 10a.
Established on March 2, 1879, this church forms an integral part of the history of La Villita. No particular denomination met here consistently, but it continues to exist, and is the favorite local wedding venue. The church also supports and hosts the Starving Artist Art Gallery's annual show—so whether you wish to wed or enter your art-work in the event, call to register!