This was my first time actually visiting/traveling in Texas (I've only traveled through Texas during flight transits). I was excited prior to my trip due to the rich history and cultural diversity of Texas that I've learned from classes and travel shows. It was definitely worth the visit! I'm surprised it took me this long to visit Texas!
I arrived in San Antonio and stayed near the famous Market Square area. I chose the location because it was close to the market and near downtown. Originally, I wanted to stay downtown, but the prices were a bit steep and I saw that the Market Square area was in close proximity to downtown. The walk to downtown was only 10 minutes or so.
My first stop was Market Square. This area has some restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and the El Mercado (market). The El Mercado is an indoor space with vendors selling traditional Mexican handicrafts, clothing, knickknacks, and snacks.
Market Square:
While at Market Square, I went to the iconic 24/7 San Antonio Mexican eatery, Mi Tierra. This famous restaurant has been serving customers since opening it's doors in 1947. It's decor is vibrant and festive as it is decorated with Christmas lights, streamers, and traditional Mexican folk handicrafts.
Mi Tierra Cafe:
The Famous Bakery:
Bexar County Courthouse:
Built in 1896, it has continuously been used as the county courthouse to this day.
The Alamo (National Shrine):
First established in 1718 as San Antonio de Valero, the building was used as a Spanish church to Christianize the Native Americans near San Antonio. After being secularized decades later, it was abandoned. During the 1820s-1836, native born Texans (Tejanos) under Mexian governance had disagreed with the way they were being treated (denied statehood) and prohibition of further immigration into Texas territory lead to the Texas Independence movement from Mexico. In 1836, a band of 180-200 Texans, led by Travis and Bowie, they fortified and defended against a massive 1,800 man Mexican army under General Santa Anna. After a 13-day siege, the Alamo fell and all defenders died valiantly defending their freedom.
Riverwalk:
Built during the late 1930's, it has been a major tourist hub and a commercial center of San Antonio. It is beautifully lit at night with outdoor lighting and is lined with rustic cafes, shops, and restaurants. It is a must-see if you ever visit San Antonio. The Riverwalk runs through the heart of downtown and is easily accessible within the city center and it's outskirts. You can ride a small ferry on the river to tour parts or all of the riverwalk stream. The river is only knee deep so it's safe.
To finish the night off, I had dinner at The County Line, a famous BBQ restaurant on the Riverwalk. I had a 3 meat combo: beef brisket, pork sausage, and baby back ribs.
San Antonio was a great getaway and showed a different side of America I haven't experienced. It is culturally rich, historically preserved, festive, and friendly. I have much more to write about, but I'll wait til the next post to complete this mini-series. I hope you enjoyed reading my Part 1 post on San Antonio and would like to invite you to read Part 2 (coming soon)!
Thank you for your patronage and please follow my instagram: joelglobetrotter .
My first stop was Market Square. This area has some restaurants, cafes, souvenir shops, and the El Mercado (market). The El Mercado is an indoor space with vendors selling traditional Mexican handicrafts, clothing, knickknacks, and snacks.
Market Square:
El Mercado:
While at Market Square, I went to the iconic 24/7 San Antonio Mexican eatery, Mi Tierra. This famous restaurant has been serving customers since opening it's doors in 1947. It's decor is vibrant and festive as it is decorated with Christmas lights, streamers, and traditional Mexican folk handicrafts.
Mi Tierra Cafe:
The Famous Bakery:
 |
| Deluxe Mexican Dinner (beef steak, guacamole, crispy taco, rice, refried beans, tamale) |
After, I strolled downtown and visited some famous landmarks downtown.
San Fernando Cathedral:
Built in 1731 and houses the remains of Texas Alamo Heroes: (Davy Crockett, William Travis, and Jim Bowie).
Built in 1896, it has continuously been used as the county courthouse to this day.
The Alamo (National Shrine):
First established in 1718 as San Antonio de Valero, the building was used as a Spanish church to Christianize the Native Americans near San Antonio. After being secularized decades later, it was abandoned. During the 1820s-1836, native born Texans (Tejanos) under Mexian governance had disagreed with the way they were being treated (denied statehood) and prohibition of further immigration into Texas territory lead to the Texas Independence movement from Mexico. In 1836, a band of 180-200 Texans, led by Travis and Bowie, they fortified and defended against a massive 1,800 man Mexican army under General Santa Anna. After a 13-day siege, the Alamo fell and all defenders died valiantly defending their freedom.
Riverwalk:
Built during the late 1930's, it has been a major tourist hub and a commercial center of San Antonio. It is beautifully lit at night with outdoor lighting and is lined with rustic cafes, shops, and restaurants. It is a must-see if you ever visit San Antonio. The Riverwalk runs through the heart of downtown and is easily accessible within the city center and it's outskirts. You can ride a small ferry on the river to tour parts or all of the riverwalk stream. The river is only knee deep so it's safe.
Thank you for your patronage and please follow my instagram: joelglobetrotter .
