Historic Sites in San Antonio

Originally settled by the Spanish in the 18th century, San Antonio has a rich, multi-ethnic heritage. It's the city where William B. Travis, Davie Crockett and Jim Bowie fought the famous battle of the Alamo.

Soon after Texas won its independence from Mexico, towns like San Antonio drew an influx of German immigrants who added their own language and traditions to the mix. The various cultural and historical influences at work in San Antonio are evident in the city's architecture, art and cuisine, and several of its oldest neighborhoods remain intact. If you're planning a trip to San Antonio, hitting these historic sites and districts is an effective way to organize your time and get to know the city.

The River Walk Connection

Situated below ground level, San Antonio's River Walk spans 3.2 miles, connects to many of the city's major attractions, restaurants and hotels, and makes it easy for pedestrians to travel from site to site. Should you need a lift, the River Taxi operates along the same route throughout the day. Whether you walk or ride, this "underground" network's generally the most direct way to reach the following sites.

Among the city's noteworthy areas settled by German immigrants is the King William Historic District. Surrounded by lovely mansions, it offers one of the best places to eat breakfast in town. The Guenther House, built by the founder of Pioneer Flour Mills in the 1860s, now functions as a delightful place to score scrumptious pancakes, waffles and pastries made from Pioneer products. After indulging in a hearty meal here, stroll around the neighborhood and look at the fine Victorian homes. Allow time to walk to your next stop, La Villita Historic Arts Village, about a mile away.

Inhabited by the Spanish military in the early 1800s, La Villita is San Antonio's oldest district. It is lined with historic structures and homes that are now occupied by shops and galleries. Pick up a walking tour map to identify important buildings and landmarks. Inside the old St Philip's College, Starving Artist Art Gallery markets an interesting variety of arts and crafts, and down the street, the Village Gallery sells attractive handmade pottery. You'll also spot an old church building, known as the Little Church. Wander inside to admire the quaint interior.

When you're ready to think about lunch, you won't have to look too far for tasty grub. River Walk's surrounded by restaurants, from steakhouses to delis to seafood joints. But in San Antonio, Mexican fare's a must, so head to Ácenar, a chic restaurant with a covered terrace overlooking the River Walk. And once you've filled up on house specials like garlic and chipotle-buttered shrimp served on cilantro rice, make your way to the city's most famous site: the Alamo.

Remember the Alamo

The church and Long Barrack buildings remain on the site of Texas's 12-day battle against General Santa Anna's Mexican army. Accented by tasteful gardens, the church houses valuable mementos like William Travis's ring and Davie Crockett's buckskin vest, and the Long Barrack Museum features an informative film and exhibits. Stone markers and plaques lining the grounds of Alamo Plaza identify significant spots: look for the former locations of Bowie's barrack and Crockett's post, the Palisade. Before leaving, take a peek at the weaponry on display in the Gift Museum and select a related souvenir from the store.

Nearby dinner options abound, but we recommend trying an establishment that's been serving the city for over 40 years. Open since 1967, Little Rhein Steak House occupies a two-story house built by a German-born storekeeper around 1847; it's now listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Understated vintage furnishings and décor outfit the dining room, where guests savor cuts of USDA prime beef, lobster tail and Norwegian salmon with sides of steamed asparagus, fresh sautéed onions and au gratin potatoes. A pleasing selection of desserts and after-dinner drinks – cognacs, liqueurs, ports – helps folks unwind from a busy day.