San Antonio is a large yet charming city that offers something for everyone, whether you’re a foodie, art lover, an outdoor enthusiast, or something in between. There are so many unique and lively neighborhoods that make up the city – so if you’ve just moved into an apartment in downtown San Antonio or just bought a house in the San Antonio suburbs, be sure to get out and explore all that the city has to offer.
However, we know it can be difficult moving to a new city or even a new part of town. So to help you get to know your new home better, we reached out to locals for their must-visit spots for newcomers to the Alamo city. Read on for their insider scoop and top recommendations.
Things to do and see in San Antonio
First Friday in Southtown
Are you an art or music enthusiast? Local photographer Ryan Humphries recommends checking out First Friday. “Southtown San Antonio is home to First Friday, the longest-running monthly art event hosted at the Blue Star Arts Complex. It’s a great place to hang out and see tons of great art, food pop-ups, and live music with friends. Also found at Blue Star is my favorite cocktail bar, Bar 1919, serving up all your favorite classic cocktails in a swanky speakeasy-style everyone will enjoy.”
Greenline at Brooks
Live From The Southside Magazine, a Southside San Antonio-based publication recommends stopping by the Greenline as you explore the Southside of San Antonio. “The Greenline is a 43-acre linear, urban park located at Brooks, a 1,300-acre community. Established in April 2018, the park features fitness stations, a food truck court, an outdoor game area, and playgrounds. There are also public art displays and great trails for biking, hiking, jogging, and walking.”
The Pearl District
“The Pearl will never fail to be a must-visit spot for those new or local to San Antonio,” shares Mirella Gonzales from San Antonio Things To Do. “Located near Downtown off the River Walk, The Pearl has plenty of restaurants and shops, making it easy to support locals, and is never dull as it hosts weekend and holiday events like markets or movie nights.”
Ketki R S, Founder of Enchanting Texas, adds, “The Pearl District is by far the trendiest neighborhood in San Antonio, and visiting is an essential San Antonio experience. Here you’ll find tons of popular restaurants, a weekly farmers market, a busy outdoor area, and a great atmosphere. Be sure to take a stroll along the Riverwalk near the Pearl to see the public artwork.”
Local photographer Eva Magana has been calling San Antonio home for over 25 years and is enamored with the Pearl. “I love the fabulous restaurants, boutiques, coffee shops, jazz clubs, and the famous Hotel Emma. The Pearl Farmer’s Market is so popular; we love shopping local vendors for produce, salsas, cheeses, and all kinds of wonderful goodies. I will admit that The Pearl has a special place in my heart because I’ve been photographing sessions there for years. On top of that, my husband and I had our first date at one of my favorite restaurants there, La Gloria. He also proposed at the amphitheater, and we got married in the same spot.”
Seaworld San Antonio
Located just 20 minutes from the River Walk, SeaWorld San Antonio is one of the ultimate entertainment spots in the city. There is something for everyone with rides and attractions, animal exhibits, bars, restaurants, and more.
“Our favorite place to visit with children is SeaWorld San Antonio,” shares Plano Moms. “There’s a splash pad area, a new sea turtle exhibit, and you can even feed the seals, too. They also have a dedicated children’s area called “Bay of Play” that is themed around Sesame Street.”
The Saga in downtown San Antonio
“My favorite thing to share with new San Antonians and visitors is The Saga – a light display show projected onto the front of the San Fernando Cathedral in downtown,” says San Antonio-based Belle & Union Co.
“It’s a unique cultural art piece that displays the history of San Antonio in painted form – there’s nothing quite like it. It welcomes people to their new home with a fresh perspective on the history and culture of our beloved city. And I’d be remiss not to mention all the wonderful local small shops – much like my own – that further share the wonderful talents of local artists and artisans.”
Texas Hill Country Region
“San Antonio makes a great home base for people who love to wander. Whether you’re catching rays on a Gulf Coast beach or just strolling our famous Riverwalk, there’s always something to see and do,” shares local Pamela Price, founder of The Texas Wildflower.
“But once you’ve explored all San Antonio has to offer, grab your boots and head into the Texas Hill Country. Rolling hills, incredible food, and charming shopping districts await — all with a distinctively authentic, rugged feel. And don’t forget the barbecue.”
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Must-try restaurants, bars, and markets in San Antonio
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Bandera Market
Bandera Market is a premier state-certified farmer’s market in the Helotes area. So if you’re a fan of farmer’s markets and shopping local, be sure to add this to your list. Gilda Mitat-Del Valle from the Bandera Market adds, “We are disabled veteran-owned and open every weekend Saturdays 10-4, Sundays 11-4, and every third Friday, we have a themed party 4-8 pm. You’ll find produce, souvenirs, handmade and local artisan products, farm-fresh eggs, and so much more.”
Garden Ridge Market Days
There’s no doubt that San Antonio is full of great farmer’s markets, and Garden Ridge Market Days is another excellent and free market. San Antonio visitors and locals enjoy food trucks, sweet treats, and fun while shopping a wide selection of local farm-fresh produce. With 150+ local vendors, you can find food trucks, farm-fresh produce, boutique clothing, home decor, local BBQ sauce, and more.
Kim Wood, Market Manager of Garden Ridge Market Days adds, “We support various non-profits monthly with markets themed around raising funds for local schools, fire departments, pet adoption services, and more. Also, friendly dogs are welcome on a leash.”
Sohill Cafe
Of course, barbeque is delicious, but who doesn’t love a good pizza? “My favorite restaurant has to be Sohill Cafe,” raves Kristina Uriegas-Reyes, owner of San Antonio boutique Hello Tallulah. “It’s close to my shop, and they have the best pizza and burgers in San Antonio. They have great weekly specials, and the servers are super friendly. It’s a perfect date spot for drinks and apps or a burger to go. Plus, the truffle fries are especially amazing.”
Sterneweirth Tavern at the Hotel Emma
San Antonio Photographer Aaron Wright recommends stopping by one of his favorite spots, the Sterneweirth Tavern at the Hotel Emma when exploring the Pearl District. “It’s an amazing, warm, and intimate space with great cocktails. The hotel has an amazing story with a history that dates back to the 1890s. You feel that history while having a margarita in a leather chair and chatting fireside with friends.”
Exploring San Antonio: the bottom line
From the rich history and vibrant culture to the beautiful architecture and endless activities, it’s no wonder so many people choose to live in San Antonio. So if you’re new to the city, check out these must-see spots, and you’ll feel like a local in no time.
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