Things to Do in San Antonio

Clinton W. Wright, Pharm.D., BCPP

Now that you know where to eat, why not get out and do some exploring.  Our committee asked several CPNP members who either live currently in San Antonio or have resided here in the past what their favorite activities were, both on the river and within the 410 Loop (most are less than 15 minutes from downtown).

Here are some suggestions for “On the Riverwalk” activities:

  • Strolling along the river is the most mentioned activity.  The older section has lots of restaurants and shopping.  The newest section of the riverwalk links downtown with the old Lone Star brewery where there are shops and more restaurants.  In between, there are stunning views of the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA); bridges with art by local artists; the locks where riverboats are floated up to the level of the new section; and various nooks and crannies for lounging and reading a book or people watching.
  • Riverboats are another way to access the various places along the river.  Not only do you get to see the sites, but you may also get a history lesson along the way.
  • Market Square, Main Plaza and the San Fernando Cathedral are all worth a visit.  They are located within blocks of each other in the heart of downtown.
  • The Tower of the Americas offers stunning views of the area and is located just a short distance from the convention hotel.

Here are some suggestions for “Inside the Loop” activities:

  • Historic King William is home to the Blue Star Art Complex (studios and galleries).  Take a walk through this historic neighborhood and then head down to Blue Star and check out the art.  If you stop in Joan Grona’s gallery, be sure to tell her I sent you.  Another historic neighborhood worth visiting is Monte Vista.  It also happens to be my home (which is the first house that you see when you enter the website).
  • The Alamo is only one of several missions in the area.  Cynthia Mascarenas recommends biking the Mission Trail. You can rent a bike at the Blue Star Brewing Company if you want to go.
  • The Quarry is an outdoor shopping center and is easily accessible off Highway 281 (which is the road from the airport to downtown).  Sheila Botts recommends it for its combination of great shopping and numerous restaurants.
  • Candlelight Coffeehouse is fun and warm with a bar, couches, tables and a huge patio. They have a large wine, beer, coffee and food selection. It's a hopping place to chat and play board games.  Phil Lau notes that the “chocolate mouse cake is deadly.”
  • Sea World is located outside the loop, but worth the trip.  Troy Moore points out that it is a great place to visit if you have children in tow.

I hope these suggestions help you plan your trip to San Antonio.  Get out and explore the city.  Next week, we will cover some more places to visit.  Until then, check out the activities listed above.

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