Bike Through San Antonio — Photo courtesy of City of San Antonio
San Antonio has so many amazing activities for families to enjoy that it’s almost impossible to choose. We’ve got the Alamo, sure. Not to mention all of the other great missions that offer kids a chance to see some historic sites while getting out into the beautiful sunshine. There’s always shopping and the downtown Riverwalk, but 10Best.com would like to suggest an itinerary that will really put the “active” back in activity, and that’s a tour of some hot spots by bicycle!
Tower of the Americas — Photo courtesy of Sunipix
Before you get to the bikes, however, start your family day with the best view of San Antonio by visiting the Tower of the Americas, which was built for the World's Fair back in 1968. Located downtown, this 750-foot-tall structure in the middle of Hemisphere plaza offers the most spectacular views from its observation deck, as well as a fun-tastic 4D Theatre ride the kids will love! We’d recommend grabbing something to eat at their fine-dining Chart House restaurant, but we've got something better in store for you.
Now onto the bikes! Head on down to Blue Star Bike Shop, which is just minutes from the Tower, where you can rent bikes for a family of four for less than $100/day. You certainly can’t say that about other popular family activities like Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld. Hop on to the Riverwalk, which is right next to the Blue Star complex. You should see it, but if you get confused, then feel free to get directions. You can be sure any Texan you ask will be more than happy to help!
Blue Star Bike Shop — Photo courtesy of Blue Star Bike Shop
Once you’re on the Riverwalk, you can stay on it the entire way as you head north. Take time to meander through the stunning King William residential district where you’ll see lots of locals walking their dogs. You’ll then pass through the downtown portion of the Riverwalk, which you might be familiar with by now.
Keep on going but take time to enjoy the sights. After you pass through downtown, you’ll be on the new Riverwalk extension which takes you up to the site of the Pearl Brewery, which is your next destination point. Once you make it to the Pearl, you've earned yourselves a great meal!
The Pearl offers a variety of eclectic shops and eateries for you to enjoy. Take your time to peruse and see what appeals to you. We recommend Timbo's for some fantastic burgers or Il Sogno, an Italian restaurant, if you're wanting something a bit more healthy and cost isn't an issue.
Now, after all that, if you have enough energy as you head back south, stop by SAMA, the San Antonio Museum of Art. This extraordinary museum has numerous collections, including contemporary, Latin American, Asian and European, with ancient artifacts that will thrill the kids. If you've made it through the entire day, it's time to reward yourself with some ice cream.
After you turn in your bikes, head on over to Marble Slab Creamery located downtown to relax and chat about all of the wonderful sights you've encountered on your bike excursion through the heart of San Antonio!
