San Antonio: History, Culture, and River Walk Wanderings

When my family scored tickets to the NCAA Final Four in San Antonio, Texas, it was a slam dunk of a weekend for all of us. While they cheered from the stands and soaked in the energy of the games, I set off on a solo adventure through one of Texas’s most fascinating cities — a place where centuries-old missions meet modern attractions, and where every corner feels like a blend of past and present.

Whimsy Michelle

5/13/20253 min read

First Impressions: Walkability and Warm Welcomes

San Antonio is a quick and convenient destination. The airport is just a 15- to 20-minute ride from downtown, making it ideal for a weekend getaway. We stayed right on the iconic River Walk — and trust me, if you’re planning a trip, this is the place to be. From here, nearly everything worth seeing is within walking distance. I'd suggest saving money on any car rentals and opt for Uber. We found a warm welcome awaited us, as the locals were also caught up in the excitement of a basketball championship being played in their hometown.

The Alamo: The Soul of San Antonio

Winding Through the River Walk

While my family was busy basking in basketball history at the Final Four, I discovered a different kind of magic in San Antonio. It’s a city that feels both timeless and vibrant — a place where cobblestone paths and Spanish missions meet lively bars, trendy restaurants, and public art.The River Walk is the heartbeat of downtown San Antonio. Lined with colorful umbrellas, stone pathways, and cascading greenery, it’s a sensory delight that winds below street level alongside the San Antonio River. I strolled along the water, popping into boutique shops, eateries, and soaking in the music and energy that seemed to float along the winding river. Whether you’re taking a river barge cruise or grabbing a beverage on a patio, the River Walk makes you feel like you're somewhere between the heart of Mexico and the canals of Venice, Italy.

A Walk Through History: The Alamo and Menger Hotel

No visit to San Antonio is complete without laying eyes on the Alamo, the city’s most iconic historic site and a symbol of Texas independence. Nestled right in the heart of downtown, the former 18th-century Spanish mission turned 1836 battleground offers more than just a photo op—it shares an important piece of Texas history. As you walk the grounds, you can almost hear the echoes of history whispering through the limestone walls. Informational exhibits, artifacts, and guided tours bring the past to life, making it easy to appreciate the depth of what happened here. While admission to The Alamo is free, tickets are required. The ticket booth is located right outside the building and offers both the free admission version as well as paid guided tours.

Just steps from the Alamo stands the storied Menger Hotel—an architectural gem that has been welcoming guests since 1859. Rich with history and charm, the Menger is more than just a place to stay; it’s a destination in itself. Presidents, poets, and even Teddy Roosevelt once walked its ornate halls, with Roosevelt famously recruiting his Rough Riders from the hotel bar. It’s also known as one of the most haunted hotels in America, adding a layer of intrigue to its already fascinating legacy. Many of the city's ghost tours start and end at the Menger. Whether you’re a history buff, a ghost hunter, or a traveler in search of a unique experience, the Menger invites you to step into the past.

A Taste of San Antonio: Eats You Can’t Miss

San Antonio is a city that knows how to feed you. From classic Tex-Mex to smoky barbecue, the food scene is as rich as its history. Some must-visit eateries include:

Mi Tierra Café y Panadería feels like a party inside a folk art museum. Worth a little bit of a walk, this restaurant has been an institution in San Antonio since 1941 and draws a crowd daily for their authentic Mexican food. The portions are HUGE, and the hand-made tortillas were the best we've ever had.
Biga, James Beard award-winning chef, Bruce Auden's fine dining experience offers engaging menus that are drawn up daily. This one is not to be missed for my Whimsy Traveler foodies!
Pinkerton's BBQ, offers up some of the best barbecue you will find in Texas. There is always a line out the door to order your mouth-watering proteins by the pound, but don't let that sway you. It is totally worth the wait! And did I mention the potato salad and cole slaw? If I had a bigger stomach, I would have happily ordered one of everything!

Whether you’re craving tacos, tamales, or Texas-style brisket, there’s no shortage of local flavor.

Final Thoughts: A City Worth the Trip (Even Without Basketball)

With its walkability, proximity to the airport, and mix of culture, history, and fun, San Antonio makes an excellent choice for a weekend getaway — even if sports aren’t on the agenda. Bring an empty stomach and good walking shoes to enjoy this city to the fullest.

If you’re looking for a quick escape stateside, consider San Antonio. You might not walk away with a trophy, but you’ll definitely leave with stories to tell. To book this exciting weekend, reach out--I'd be happy to help!