Austin Summer Getaways: San Antonio

Bike Along Mission Reach

Long before its pivotal role in the Texas Revolution, the Alamo was one of five Spanish missions that now make up the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. Today, a hike-and-bike trail connects these historic landmarks, with about 2.5 miles between each one. Start with Mission Espada and its ancient aqueduct in the south, winding your way along the river toward missions San Juan Capistrano, San José and Concepción before ending at the Alamo.

Explore the Pearl Brewery

Wander the old brewery campus for all your shopping, dining and entertainment needs. Start with charcuterie at Cured, then savor macarons from Bakery Lorraine or listen to live music in a speakeasy setting at Jazz, TX. Browse local boutiques like Adelante, Niche and Dos Carolinas before setting your course back to Supper at Hotel Emma, followed by a nightcap in the hotel’s stunning Sternewirth bar.

McNay Art Museum

Bring treats from nearby Bird Bakery for a picnic on the grounds at the McNay Art Museum. Built for Marion Koogler McNay in the 1920s, the Spanish Colonial Revival residence opened as Texas’s first modern art museum in 1954, and its collections still delight visitors today. Be sure to bask in the sunlit courtyard, admiring its blue-tile peacocks and peaceful water sculpture.

Hemisfair

Currently in phase one of a three-part restoration, Hemisfair is the original site of the 1968 world’s fair. Pedestrians can wander through the Yanaguana Garden, an ADA-compliant and beautifully landscaped park with activities for kids and adults of all ages. Don’t miss the housemade burrata at Dough, followed by a delicious scoop of ice cream (or two) at Paleteria.

Back to All