Our Blog Staff Picks

Coming in at number one is the San Antonio River Walk. Many would consider it to be the heart of the city, where restaurant-bordered stone walkways line the San Antonio River. Set below street level, this is a beautiful area with calm, flowing waters, graceful bridges, birds, and plenty of shade from the large trees that arch over the river banks. Come for a walk and a bite to eat or take a guided tour and dinner cruise. This slow-moving boat ride accommodates 20 passengers and affords diners a unique perspective of the passers-by on the River Walk. Ultimately, it’s a great opportunity to rest your legs after a long, hot day of sightseeing.

The Alamo is our number two. It’s one of the best-known historical sites in the United States and a must-see attraction if you are visiting San Antonio. The Alamo was part of the mission station established in 1718 that includes a church built by Franciscans in 1744. In 1836, at the Battle of the Alamo, a small troop of nationals fought a Mexican army of 3,000. All the defenders were killed, including legendary figures Davy Crockett and James Bowie, in a battle that some estimate may have lasted only 20 minutes. The Alamo has since become the cradle of Texan independence, the phrase "Remember the Alamo!" its battle cry. The former mission is now a National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The Alamo is one of five sites that constitutes the San Antonio Missions, all of which were named UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2015, and round out our top three. Together, the Spanish-built missions make up one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. In addition to the Alamo, consider visiting Mission San Jose and Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. The Mission Trail connects the sites. You can drive or bike between the sites; a tour beginning at the Alamo and ending at the fourth mission is an eight-mile one-way ride or a 16-mile return trip. The trail follows the river and is scenic and informative in its own right, making it a great outdoor activity for the whole family.

Back in town, follow hungry crowds to The Pearl, to experience our number four pick. This historic, yet hip neighborhood of the city boasts lovely restored buildings, trendy boutiques, and cafes. On weekends, the Pearl is home to a bustling farmers market with vendors selling fresh produce, scrumptious baked goods, artisan sauces, and other specialties only found here. Not surprisingly, The Pearl is also home to one of three Culinary Institute of America campuses, where guests like you can sign up for cooking classes!

Made famous because of its burial grounds for the heroes of the Alamo, San Fernando Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in the US and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. It’s our number five. The walls of the original church, built by settlers from the Canary Islands in 1750, now form the cathedral's sanctuary. The cathedral is San Antonio’s Main Plaza and is a fine place to visit at night since darkness sets the stage for one of San Antonio's most visually compelling attractions, San Antonio The Saga. Offered free of charge every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, this art installation, created by video “painter” Xavier de Richemont, is a 24-minute video, with choreographed music and narration, projected onto the side of San Fernando Cathedral. The 7,000-square-foot projection highlights the story of San Antonio through an amazing display of colorful images and surrounding sound. Bring popcorn!

Less than 30 minutes from San Antonio is our number six, Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest commercial caves in Texas. These spectacular caves are a mix of cavernous rock-walled rooms, dark narrow passages, and interesting rock formations formed over millennia. Two types of cave tours are available and take approximately 70 minutes each. Or, if you're seeking more of a thrill, try the Canopy Challenge with its course of ziplines, platforms, and ladders reaching 60 feet above the ground. Children can enjoy Sky Tykes, a rope course designed for younger kids and toddlers. Another above-ground option at the caverns is a hands-on gem and fossil mining experience inviting kids and adults of any age to learn how miners panned for gold. Souvenirs, food, and fresh fudge are available on-site, too.

Looking for souvenirs? Market Square, coming in at number seven, is the place to go. This three-block strip of shops and restaurants is known for being the largest Mexican market north of the border; the indoor portion selling everything from sombreros to pottery. A leisurely stroll through the market will reveal locally owned shops displaying handcrafted artwork ranging from paintings, dolls, blankets, and jewelry to ponchos, dresses, shoes, musical instruments, and more.

When you've had your fill of shopping, check out Mi Tierra Café Y Panadería for lunch, dinner, or a treat from the on-site bakery. This San Antonio institution has been in serving hungry visitors since 1941 and is the size of an entire city block. Open 24 hours a day, the one-of-a-kind Mexican restaurant is elaborately decorated with colored lights and fiesta flags waving to the tunes of musicians who stroll through the restaurant creating a festive ambiance.

Need a place to relax and get quiet? The Japanese Tea Garden is a beautiful, retreat from the hustle and bustle of San Antonio’s downtown, and is our number eight. A former rock quarry, the area was transformed into a peaceful garden with plants indigenous to East Asia, Koi ponds, waterfalls, and a lovely stone Pavilion. Stone walkways meander through the gardens. Just a 10-minute drive from the River Walk, you can easily combine a visit to the Tea Garden with a number of other activities on our list.

Coming in at number nine, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is another oasis in the city. Wander through the trees and breath in the verdant gardens. Designed with wonderful self-guided trails, you needn’t follow a map to see some of the garden’s highlights. These include the Mays Family Display Garden, the Water Saver Conservation Garden, and the 2.5-acre Family Adventure Garden where kids are invited to "mess with Texas." But don’t leave without taking a quick trip to the tropics! Explore the 90,000-square-foot Lucille Halsell Conservatory featuring heat and humidity-loving plants from around the world. Indoor highlights include the Fern Room, the Palm and Cycad Pavilion, the colorful plants of the Gretchen Northrup Tropical Conservatory, and the cacti of the Robert and Helen Kleberg Desert Pavilion.

Last, but not least on our list, we suggest visiting any one of San Antonio’s fabulous museums. For art and antiquities visit the San Antonio Museum of Art or the McNay Art Museum, both of which offer two, very different perspectives. The San Antonio Museum of Art features collections of Greek and Roman artifacts, as well as Asian, European, American, and Latin American art. Highlights include many fine examples of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artwork, as well as an exceptional collection of Chinese ceramics and other art from the continent. The McNay Art Museum, on the other hand, boasts an impressive collection of modern art, including contemporary Indian art. The museum is housed in what was once a large Spanish Colonial Revival house. 

For an impressive and almost overwhelming showcase of natural history, science, and culture visit the Witte Museum. After a series of recent expansions and upgrades, it is now bigger and better than ever with a number of galleries designed specially for kids. Don’t miss the interactive displays demonstrating how the human body works or the spectacular Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery with its massive Acrocanthosaurus skeleton. Check the museum calendar to see what visiting exhibits are on during your stay.

For more information about any of these activities and other great summertime opportunities, contact our events and activities team at Hotel Gibbs. Shelve your textbooks, and book your stay with Hotel Gibbs this summer!

This month, from April 20th through 30th, join more than 2.5 million people from around the world to celebrate Fiesta San Antonio! This spectacular event, as dynamic as it is colorful, got its start all the way back in 1891 as a parade to honor the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. Today, the spectacular commemoration has become an eleven-day celebration grossing hundreds of millions of dollars that go right back into the local economy. And it’s not too late to get tickets! Get yours for parade days on the 28th and 29th and don’t miss the much-anticipated coronation. As soon as you’ve purchased your tickets, reserve your stay with us at Hotel Gibbs! But first, read on to learn more about the history of this annual party to understand why you can’t afford to miss it.

The First Battle of Flowers

By 1890, San Antonio, Texas, was a thriving trade center with a population of 38,000. In 1891 a group of citizens decided to honor the heroes of the Alamo and Battle of San Jacinto with a Battle of Flowers. The first parade had horse-drawn carriages, bicycles decorated with fresh flowers and floats carrying children dressed as flowers. The Belknap Rifles represented the military, and participants pelted each other with flower blossoms. Immediately, the Battle of Flowers was became a crowd favorite, and within a few years, more events were taking place on or near April 21st– including a carnival, balls, and coronations of “royalty”-- and the Fiesta tradition was born. Other early events included street dancing, children’s festivals, a Trades Display Parade and an orphans party. The parade’s 125 year legacy is an admirable one; Fiesta has taken place every year since except for 1918 during World War I and 1942 through 1945 during World War II.

The Order of the Alamo and Fiesta Royalty

Eighteen years after the first Battle of the Flowers, in 1909, John Carrington founded the Order of the Alamo, one of the oldest Fiesta organizations. The members meet once a year to choose the next year’s queen and her court. The queen’s court includes a princess, 12 in-town duchesses and 12 from out of town. Those chosen become the featured royalty in the major Fiesta parades. Claire Driscoll, patron of the Alamo, was the only person to serve as Queen of Fiesta for three years in 1904, 1905 and 1906. Since then queens are limited to one year of service. If you attend, you’ll notice royalty dress the part, with some queens’ gowns valued to be worth nearly $10,000 dollars. Members of the Order reserve such financial details to stay between the families and their dressmakers.

As for kings, during the early years, Fiesta royalty included King Cotton, King Selamat (tamales spelled backwards), King Omala (Alamo spelled backwards), and King Antonio. Some years no king was named. John Carrington formed the Texas Cavaliers in 1926 with the intention to select King Antonio. The first Cavaliers king was Sterling Burke, crowned King Antonio IX in 1927.

For years, King Antonio had no set tradition for his official arrival at Fiesta and used planes, trains, and automobiles to appear. When the Works Progress Administration completed improvements to the San Antonio River in 1941, the Cavaliers decided to introduce the king in a river parade—the first event to take place on the river after the improvements. Today the River Parade is one of the few in the nation in which the floats really do float. About 250,000 people line the banks to enjoy the event.

The second king to reign over Fiesta was El Rey Feo, or the “Ugly King.” This monarch comes from a medieval tradition in which peasants elected one of their own as king for a day. The first Rey Feo was crowned in 1947 though as a figurehead, he didn’t became an official part of Fiesta until 1980. Today, the Rey Feo Scholarship Foundation sponsors El Rey Feo with candidates for the title raising money for students’ college expenses. Notably, the emergence of two Fiesta kings established a bridge between both of the city’s major cultures. Both kings visit hospitals, schools, and nursing homes in addition to making their appearance at Fiesta events.

A Pilgrimage, a Parade, and a Night to Remember

Also part of Fiesta’s commemorative legacy, The Daughters of the Republic of Texas have staged a Pilgrimage to the Alamo since 1925 as a memorial tribute to the Alamo heroes and the heritage of Texas. It’s a solemn, wreath-bearing procession composed of historic, civic, patriotic, military and school groups walks silently to the Alamo. At the same time, an announcer intones the names of the Alamo defenders from within the Alamo walls. The ceremony concludes with a brief memorial service.

The Fiesta Flambeau Parade, scheduled this year on April 29th, began way back in 1948. True to the parade’s name– a word that comes from the French word for a candlestick or torch– four-man brigades marched between the other parade battalions carrying torches on five-foot poles. Today Boy Scouts carry safety flares, and all the floats in the Flambeau Parade are lighted.

Finally, A Night in Old San Antonio, better known as NIOSA and sponsored by the San Antonio Conservation Society, joined Fiesta in 1948, too. The intention? To raise awareness and monies to save San Antonio buildings and maintain the city’s cultural heritage. It takes about 16,000 volunteers each year to stage NIOSA.

Fiesta Today

Today, all told– with the help of 75,000 volunteers and 100 local nonprofit organizations and military units– Fiesta has grown to featuring more than 100 events that feature music, food, sports, pageantry, patriotic observances, exhibits, parades, Fiesta Royalty and more. Past Fiestas have featured regattas, synchronized swimming, polo matches, a hot-air balloon race, rifle competitions and bowling tournaments. This year, expect to see more events like these as well as a few more Fiesta traditions. These include the Cornyation, a raucous show lampooning San Antonio headlines and personalities; St. Mary’s Oyster Bake, two days of food (including 100,000 oysters) and live music on the St. Mary’s University campus; The Women’s Fiesta Soccer Tournament: an invitational tournament featuring top teams from around the nation; JBSA-Lackland Fiesta Military Parade; the Fiesta Especial, a 5K Run and Parade; and the Pooch Parade.

Of course, since history has a way of repeating itself, one event you don’t want to miss is the Battle of the Flowers. The present day Battle of Flowers looks much the same as the first one we described back in 1890. Uniquely, it’s the only one in the country planned and directed completely by women, and it’s second in size nationally only to the Tournament of Roses Parade held annually in California.

You’ll find all the colorful details on the Fiesta San Antonio website that includes a calendar of events, the Fiesta daily schedule, maps, royalty profiles, history, places to shop, fun facts, and so much more. Start planning today, buy your tickets, and pack bright colors! We’ll see you at the coronation!

So much more than an 8 second ride, the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo has grown to become one of the largest, most prestigious single events in the city of San Antonio. Now, in its 74th year, the rodeo draws an average 1.5 million visitors to the grounds, and more than 6,000 volunteers who give countless hours to make things go. As a charitable event, with scholarships, grants, endowments, junior livestock auctions, and the calf scramble program, more than 21,000 Texas youth benefit, too. Why should you make it a part of your visit? We can think of a lot of reasons, but will list our Top 5 attractions that you really can’t afford to miss. But before we do, here’s everything you need to know before you go.

Last year, attendance breached 1.3 million, so the better you prepare, the more seamless your experience will be. And that starts with tickets and parking. Secure your rodeo tickets for this year’s Stock Show & Rodeo online; these tickets will also include access to the fairgrounds and carnival. Admission pricing for the fairgrounds is $15 for adults ($12 in advance) and $5 for children while rodeo tickets vary depending on seating inside the AT&T Center. The rodeo will also have $2 days where you can head to the grounds, enjoy rides, and select food for only $2! Visit the event website to see promo dates and other deals. The fairgrounds are open every day from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m. and the rodeo doors open 90 minutes before every concert performance. The rodeo lasts around two hours and takes place before the concert. So if you plan to buy concert tickets, be prepared for music to start around 9 p.m. after rodeo events have concluded for the day. 

Which days, you ask? This annual spectacular runs from Thursday, February 9th through Sunday, February 26th. And every day is jam packed with fun things to see and do. If you plan to drive to the show, get your parking ticket in advance, too. We recommend purchasing a parking pass for Lot 1 of the AT&T Center. Same day parking is available on a first-come, first-park basis unless all passes have been purchased in advance. Lot 1 is accessible from Houston Street. Park in the Blue Lot to ride the Rodeo Express Shuttle. Purchase parking tickets for the dates you plan to attend here.

With most of the particulars out of the way, let’s get on to the good stuff! What is there to do? 

Number 5 in our top attractions are the Shops at the Rodeo. Sip, shop, and dine all under one roof inside the Expo Hall at more than 175 unique vendors. 

Better still, almost all of the venders offer a military discount. Want a preview of what you’ll find so you can strategize your shopping spree? Here’s an abbreviated list by category:

Apparel/Boutiques - 3 Sassy Chicks Boutique; Archundi and Company; Armadillo Outfitters; Bless Your Heart; Cavender’s; Chida Frida, Dale Brisby; Crystal Cross Cowgirl; Farmgirl Frosting; Fatima’s Design

Dining/Specialty Foods -  A Spice Above Texax; All of Us; Arkwood; Big Creek Farms; D’Marie; My Fav Candy Store; Munch-Oes Bakery

Jewelry/Accessories - Amas Your Style; Ambriz Jewelry; Ann’s Turquoise Inc.; Campbell Enterprises; Chestnut Cowgirl; Samsville Gallery

Farm/Garden - Avonlea’s; Branding Stove Candles; Classic Equine Equipment; K9 Cafe; McCoy’s Building Supply; Outlaw Smokers; Staffent USA Ltd

Western - Cowboy Cool; Cowhide Outlet; Continental Leather; Big Barb Wire; Cowhide Outlet; Circle R Ranchwear; Double J Saddlery

Art - Black & White Art Studio; Blue Quail Designs; Get Bent Metal Works; PartyArty Caricatures; Texas Horny Toad; The Butterfly Connection; Talents Face Paint

And because we’ve barely scratched the surface, go check out the rest of the Shops at the Rodeo online! Learn about each vender, preorder, or have items shipped straight to your home. 

Number 4 on our Top 5 is Bustin’ in the Barn where up-and-coming riders have more than 1,500 opportunities to compete for 1 of 8 slots in a Wildcard performance. You guessed it; this one’s for the kids! Boys and girls ages 4 to 7 and weighing less than 55 pounds can climb abroad a bucking sheep and hang on as long as they can to win judges’ favor. Kids will be ranked on their personality, sheep difficulty, and their time and distance on the sheep. Don’t believe us! See for yourself!

Number 3 is for our Concerts. We have an incredible lineup of performers, one scheduled for every night of the rodeo, starting at 9. Get your groove on to the likes of Ryan Bingham, Jake Owen, Carly Pearse, Midland, William Beckmann, Ronnie Milsap, Tracy Byrd, Lee Brice, Alabama, Bret Michaels, Keith Urban, Dwight Yoakam, Cole Swindell, Nelly, Clay Walker, and more. Tickets are available online.

Number 2 on our Top 5 is the Fairground. Fairground tickets include access to the carnival, shopping, live music, livestock barns, food, and more. It's basically everything around the AT&T Center. Rodeo tickets are sold separately. Fairground Gates open everyday at 9 am and don’t close until 11. In addition to the amusement park style rides, the days event schedule is jam-packed with fun for the whole family. Check out the Swift Swine Pig Races, BMX Freestyle competitions, Agricultural Educations demos, Bustin’ in the Barn, and more. There are horse events, too, to watch, like the Horse Skillathon and Barrel Racing. And there’s also food and wine sampling to be had. Check out the full event schedule online. 

And finally, Number 1 on our Top 5 is, of course, the rodeo. The 2023 edition will feature a tournament of 19 Professional Rodeo Cowboys Association (PRCA) and Women’s Professional Rodeo Association (WPRA) performances. These are followed by entertainment along with special rodeo performances on specific nights, including Noche Del Vaquero, Ranch Rodeo, and Xtreme Bulls. Doors open 90 minutes prior to each performance. Each action-packed PRCA Rodeo kicks off with the patriotic Grand Entry and features bareback riding, steer wrestling, team roping, breakaway roping, saddle bronc riding, tie-down roping, barrel racing and bull riding. You don't want to miss the specialty acts as well as mutton bustin' and the calf scramble. And yes, many are competing for big money. How does it work? The tournament-style format includes 19 PRCA rodeo performances where contestants compete back to back in each Bracket. The top four (4) money winners advance to a Semifinal Round and the top five (5) out of each Semifinal advance to the Finals. The most money earned at the end of the Finals will be crowned the San Antonio Rodeo Champion!

Excited yet? We sure are. Grab your lasso and pull in an unforgettable time. Oh, in

case you’re wondering, don’t bother to go shopping first. Come as you are and get your gear here! While there’s no dress code, Western wear is a popular choice. Don't be surprised to see some bedazzled jeans, cowboy hats, and Western shirts when the sun goes down. Experience one of San Antonio’s biggest events of the year. Book your stay at Hotel Gibbs, and we’ll make sure you get there.

With several fitness-inspired activities in the city already on the calendar, you’ll have ample ways to move with us. Get in the spirit and make San Antonio your fitness destination this December!
On December 2nd and 3rd, our spirited city hosts the Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon, 10k, and 5k races. Wind your way through vibrant and prideful streets decked with more than 300 years of history, and get a firsthand view of San Antonio’s most iconic landmarks. This season, we're celebrating San Antonio's holiday magic while exploring a city rich with heritage, fresh new attractions, and delicious local food. The race is part of a 24 year legacy known as the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series That’s 24 years of runners of all ages and abilities enjoying unforgettable moments at Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series events all over the world. Its founders claim their mission to Bring Fun to the Run™ has transformed both the U.S. and global running landscape. How have they done it? By infusing race courses with live bands, cheer teams, and entertaining water stations to create a block-party-like atmosphere for everyone involved. A different band or musician will play at each mile of the race including Grammy-winning six-piece band, Ozomatli.
Maintaining a focus on running, music, and community, the nearly 25-year history of the Rock ‘n’ Roll Running Series has been highlighted by countless milestone moments curated throughout hundreds of races, meaningful partnerships, and the inspiring community of participants. Read about some of the Series highlights by visiting the website. And while you’re there, consider getting in on the 2023 presale, and be a part fo the Series’ 25 year anniversary race!

It’s worth noting that runners enjoy some great perks for their efforts, including United Airline miles, fantastic finishing medals, and loads of discounts and deals at close to a dozen area restaurants, cafes, and breweries. Run for your reward and finish your year with a Rock ‘n’ Roll fiesta in San Antonio!

Still want to get in on the action, but don’t feel like running 26.1 miles? We don’t blame you, or judge you! In fact, we’ve got an activity in mind that will help you feel like part of the pack without getting trampled. San Antonio’s Health and Fitness Expo welcomes runners and fitness-enthusiasts of all kinds to a showcase of sports nutrition, running apparel, shoes and accessories, tips on fitness, health, and wellness plus plenty of healthy products to sample. All of this will fill the Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center Halls 4A and 4B on E. Market Street from noon to 7 pm on Friday, December 2nd and 9 am to 5 pm on Saturday December 3rd. Join the estimated 35,000 visitors to peruse the 57 vendors, including big industry names like Garmin International. Altra Running, Timex, and many more. See some of the race participants, too, who will have to visit the Expo to pick up their race bib and tees. But you don’t have to be a runner to score great prices; the previous year’s graphic t-shirts and hats, headbands, and sweatshirts are often available at a big discount. No sign-up or entrance ticket is required to attend. Just show up and feel the buzz of San Antonio’s Rock ‘n’ Roll Marathon weekend!

Best for last? No way! All of our fitness fun this month could inspire a visit to San Antonio and a stay with us at Hotel Gibbs. But we particularly like Fitness in the Park, a city-wide award winning program that offers an endless variety of FREE exercise and fitness classes for all ages and abilities! Not sure what you’re in the mood for? Get a load of this list of activities at local parks, community centers, or libraries, gyms, and pools:

Aqua Board HIIT, Aqua Combat, and Aqua Zumba at the San Antonio Natatorium
Basketball Conditioning at Frank Garrett Multi-Service Center
Beginner Tennis at Fairchild and San Pedro Springs Parks
Bike Boot Camp at Enrique Barrera Fitness Center
Boot Camp at Pearsall, Southside Lions, and Woodlawn Lake Parks
Cardio Fit at Enrique Barrera Fitness Center and Parman Library
Cardio Kickboxing at Enrique Barrera Fitness Center and Miller’s Pond Park
Chair Fitness at Lackland Terrace Park
Chair Volleyball and Chair Yoga at Highland Park
Circuit Training at Bonnie Conner Park, Enrique Barrera Fitness Center, and Hardberger Park, McAllister Park, Highland Park, and Lions Field Adult and Senior Center
Drum Fitness at Bode and Gill Community Centers
Eccentrics at Granados Adult and Senior Center
Flamenco Dance Fitness at Highland Park
Folkloric Dance Fitness at Highland Park
Hip Hop Dance at Copernicus, LBJ, and Frank Garrett Parks
Hula Dance at LBJ Park
We could go on and on and we haven’t even made it thought half of the alphabet! You name it, we teach it! Just scroll through the list on the San Antonio Parks & Recreation website to find what moves you and get stepping! Many of the activities’ instructors are volunteers, which means they show up because they want to be there. That ensures each and every class you attend leaves you feeling better and more fit than when you arrived. Each activity lists an age range for participants, dates and times that it’s scheduled, as well as location. Click on any event for a brief description, and in some cases, instructors’ names and contact info. No registration is required. It’s really the perfect way to meet our friendly community; When you’re here on a business trip or vacation with family your don’t have time to invest in a gym membership or sign-up for a weekly fitness class. Besides, Fitness in the Park provides a way to try a number of different activities to see what you like without making a significant time or financial commitment. What could be better than that?

All told, December is a month to move, and we’ve already started the race. So lace your shoes, loosen up, and hop in! We can’t wait to get fit with you this holiday season when you stay at Hotel Gibbs.

Stroll along the San Antonio River Walk- Many would consider the heart of San Antonio to be its River Walk where restaurant-bordered stone walkways line the San Antonio River. Set below street level, this is a beautiful area with calm, flowing waters, graceful bridges, birds, and plenty of shade from the large trees that arch over the river banks. Come for a walk and a bite to eat or take a guided tour and dinner cruise. This slow-moving boat ride accommodates 20 passengers and affords diners a unique perspective of the passers by on the River Walk. Ultimately, it’s a great opportunity to rest your legs after a long, hot day of sightseeing.

Tour the Alamo- The Alamo is one of the best known historical sites in the United States and a must-see attraction if you are visiting San Antonio. The Alamo was part of the mission station established in 1718 that includes a church built by Franciscans in 1744.
In 1836, at the Battle of the Alamo, a small troop of nationals fought a Mexican army of 3,000. All the defenders were killed, including legendary figures Davy Crockett and James Bowie, in a battle that some estimate may have lasted only 20 minutes. The Alamo has since become the cradle of Texan independence, the phrase "Remember the Alamo!" its battle cry. The former mission is now a National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Visit San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and Mission Trail
The Alamo is one of five sites that constitutes the San Antonio Missions, all of which were named UNESCO World Heritage Sites in 2015. Together, the Spanish-built missions make up one of the city's most popular tourist attractions. In addition to the Alamo, consider visiting Mission San Jose and Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. The Mission Trail connects the sites. You can drive or bike between the sites; a tour beginning at the Alamo and ending at the fourth mission is an eight-mile one-way ride or a 16-mile return trip. The trail follows the river and is scenic and informative in its own right, making it a great outdoor activity for the whole family.

Visit San Fernando Cathedral and San Antonio The Saga- Made famous because of its burial grounds for the heroes of the Alamo, San Fernando Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in the US and is listed on the National register of Historic Places. The walls of the original church, built by settlers from the Canary Islands in 1750, now form the cathedral's sanctuary.
The cathedral is San Antonio’s Main Plaza and is a fine place to visit at night, since darkness sets the stage for one of San Antonio's most visually compelling attractions, San Antonio The Saga. Offered free of charge every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, this art installation, created by video “painter” Xavier de Richemont, is a 24-minute video, with choreographed music and narration, projected onto the side of San Fernando Cathedral.
The 7,000-square-foot projection highlights the story of San Antonio through an amazing display of colorful images and surround sound. Bring popcorn!

Explore Natural Bridge Caverns- Less than 30 minutes from San Antonio is Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest commercial caves in Texas. These spectacular caves are a mix of cavernous rock-walled rooms, dark narrow passages, and interesting rock formations formed over millennia.
Two types of cave tours are available and take approximately 70 minutes each. Or, if you're seeking more of a thrill, try the Canopy Challenge with its course of ziplines, platforms and ladders reaching 60 feet above the ground. Children can enjoy Sky Tykes, a rope course designed for younger kids and toddlers.
Another above-ground option at the caverns is a hands-on gem and fossil mining experience inviting kids and adults of any age to learn how miners panned for gold. Souvenirs, food, and fresh fudge are available on site, too.

Visit the Pearl District and Farmers Market- Back in town, follow hungry crowds to The Pearl. This historic, yet hip neighborhood of the city boasts lovely restored buildings, trendy boutiques, and cafes. On weekends, the Pearl is home to a bustling farmers market with vendors selling fresh produce, scrumptious baked goods, artisan sauces, and other specialties only found here. Not surprisingly, The Pearl is also home to one of three Culinary Institute of America campuses, where guests like you can sign up for cooking classes!

Shop at Historic Market Square- Looking for souvenirs? Market Square is the place to go. This three-block strip of shops and restaurants is known for being the largest Mexican market north of the border; the indoor portion selling everything from sombreros to pottery. A leisurely stroll through the market will reveal locally owned shops displaying handcrafted art work ranging from paintings, dolls, blankets, and jewelry to ponchos, dresses, shoes, musical instruments, and more.
When you've had your fill of shopping, check out Mi Tierra Café Y Panadería for lunch, dinner, or a treat from the on-site bakery. This San Antonio institution has been serving hungry visitors since 1941 and is the size of an entire city block.
Open 24 hours a day, the one-of-a-kind Mexican restaurant is elaborately decorated with colored lights and fiesta flags waving to the tunes of musicians who stroll through the restaurant creating a festive ambiance.

Visit the Japanese Tea Garden- Need a place to relax and get quiet? The Japanese Tea Garden is a beautiful retreat from the hustle and bustle of San Antonio’s downtown. A former rock quarry, the area was transformed into a peaceful garden with plants indigenous to east Asia, Koi ponds, waterfalls, and a lovely stone Pavilion. Stone walkways meander through the gardens. Just a 10-minute drive from the River Walk, you can easily combine a visit to the Tea Garden with a number of other activities on our list.

Explore the San Antonio Botanical Garden- The San Antonio Botanical Garden is another oasis in the city. Wander through the trees and breath in the verdant gardens. Designed with wonderful self-guided trails, you needn’t follow a map to see some of the garden’s highlights. These include the Mays Family Display Garden, the Water Saver Conservation Garden, and the 2.5-acre Family Adventure Garden where kids are invited to "mess with Texas." But don’t leave without taking a quick trip to the tropics! Explore the 90,000 square-foot Lucille Halsell Conservatory featuring heat and humidity-loving plants from around the world. Indoor highlights include the Fern Room, the Palm and Cycad Pavilion, the colorful plants of the Gretchen Northrup Tropical Conservatory, and the cacti of the Robert and Helen Kleberg Desert Pavilion.

Go Museum Hopping- If you’re aching for a reprieve from the sun, step inside one of San Antonio’s fabulous museums. For art and antiquities visit the San Antonio Museum of Art or the McNay Art Museum, both of which offer two, very different perspectives. The San Antonio Museum of Art features collections of Greek and Roman artifacts, as well as Asian, European, American, and Latin American art. Highlights include many fine examples of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artwork, as well as an exceptional collection of Chinese ceramics and other art from the continent. The McNay Art Museum, on the other hand, boasts an impressive collection of modern art, including contemporary Indian art. The museum is housed in what was once a large Spanish Colonial Revival house.For an impressive and almost overwhelming showcase of natural history, science, and culture visit the Witte Museum. After a series of recent expansions and upgrades, it is now bigger and better than ever with a number of galleries designed specially for kids. Don’t miss the interactive displays demonstrating how the human body works or the spectacular Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery with its massive Acrocanthosaurus skeleton. Check the museum calendar to see what visiting exhibits are on during your stay.

For more information about any of these activities, contact our events and activities team at Hotel Gibbs. Our concierge will happily direct your call and connect you with a front desk representative to help book your stay with us so you can explore our dynamic and exciting city!

Go big or stay home! Get a “Go City Pass” and get access to more than 25 events and amusements including SeaWorld, Six Flags Fiesta Texas, iFly, San Antonio Zoo, city tours and museums. Have your site set on the San Antonio Aquarium? Time your visit right and take advantage of their 30% off of admission for two. Maybe you’d rather kick up your spurs at the Tejas Rodeo, just outside of San Antonio in Bulverde, TX. The “greatest show on dirt” takes place every Saturday night with doors opening at 5 pm and the rodeo starting at 7:30. Thirsty for more? Monster Truckz Extreme entertains thrill-seekers of all ages, featuring gravity-defying motocross, human cannonballs, and plenty of car crushing. Check their website for event details.

Of course, thrills come in all shapes and colors, and there’s a lot more fun to be had in our verdant parkland. Use the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department’s Find a Park tool to visit some of the city’s best parks and greenways. One of our favorites is Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair Park; it has a splash pad! Or perhaps you’d like to conquer the ropes and zip-line course at Natural Bridge Caverns? Afterwards, breathe easy with a relaxing stroll through the Japanese Tea Gardens, and take in pleasing views, lush greenery, brightly colored flowers and reflective Koi ponds–all for free.

And we didn’t even mention the Alamo, El Mercado in Market Square, or the San Antonio Missions–a dedicated World Heritage Site. But you don’t have to do it all. Simply choose your adventure and plan your return! Spring Break is just one week; San Antonio has enough to do for a lifetime.

You’ll also see a genuine ringmaster’s costume, an elegant ensemble accented with loads of sparkle, along with circus posters, photographs, and additional vintage memorabilia from under the big top. However, if you’re looking for Cinnamon Kandy, the beloved and gaily-painted circus elephant statue, she’s no longer calling the front of the Witte home. This colorful pachyderm has been lovingly restored and can now be found at the museum’s Morton Research and Collection Center. The Hertzberg Circus Collection is not only the oldest public circus collection in the country but also one of the largest in existence.

Next, don’t miss a chance to celebrate Mardi Gras on February 22, when San Antonio’s iconic River Walk will be the setting of a colorful Mardi Gras Festival and Parade. Don your costumes and your masks and get ready to catch some beads as the Krewes make their way along the parade route. Loads of food trucks will satisfy hungry revelers, and The Arneson River Theatre stage will feature day-long live entertainment, including music by Ruben V, Zydeco Blanco, Shonnie Murrell, Europa, and GrooveTronX.

Holiday Artisan Show

Browse exquisite handcrafted work and visit with the artisans on December 13-15. Finish up that holiday gift list or take home something special just for yourself. You’ll find pottery, woodwork, paintings, beadwork, textiles, jewelry, home and garden, and more.

Holiday Night Market at the Pearl

Another terrific shopping opportunity from December 5-19, the Pearl features the return of their Holiday Night Markets. Browse the Farmers Market, a variety of artisan vendors, tamales, and hand-crafted chocolates as you groove to the live music and the holiday vibe.  

Valero Alamo Bowl

Be sure to join your fellow sports fans on December 31 for this exciting faceoff between the number one picks from the Pac-12 and Big 12 conferences post-CFP playoff selections.   

Sample sours, ales, porters, wheats, and more from a selection of 125 featured breweries, along with a variety of wines and ciders. You’ll also find delicious eats from food trucks, along with games, and music. A part of the proceeds will benefit the San Antonio Food Bank.

Dia de los Muertos

Head over to Hemisfair the weekend of October 26-27 for the traditional kick-off a beloved San Antonio event. This 7^th annual celebration of the Day of the Dead will benefit Inner City development. You’ll find expanded art booths and the largest altar open altar exhibition in the city, along with all the traditional music, food, and activities, along with altar-building contests, and two stages of live bands, poets, Catrines, Catrinas, and dancers.

The large stage and screen still serve the community during festivals, film screenings, arts and cultural events, and more. Every third Saturday of the month (August 17) is a fabulous time to head over to the MMP for their terrific Farmers & Artisan Markets, along with a free Zumba class at the Y. This pet-friendly market offers a large selection of fresh goods from locally-sourced farmers and locally handmade items, including jewelry, art, textiles, and much more.

Next, make plans to see your next film outdoors at Slab Cinema. Since their premiere screening of 1959’s Bucket of Blood in 2004, Rick and Angela Martinez have been operating their free outdoor movie theater at various locations throughout the city. This month’s upcoming flicks include On Her Majesty’s Secret Service, Zootopia, Jurassic Park, Spiderman: Into the Spider-Verse, Ant-Man and the Wasp, and Mary Poppins Returns. Be sure to pack up the picnic baskets, and don’t forget the blankets and lawn chairs.

Street and river parades (and additional festivities) will include Mexican/Oaxacan-style costumed attendees, with women in brightly-colored paper hats, along with unique sombreros for the men. Be sure to visit Night in Old San Antonio (NIOSA) for evening street parties, dancing, music, food, and drink. The many events are too numerous to list here, but the official Fiesta 2019 schedule contains a complete listing of all our favorites, from the Teen Queen Coronation to the Fiesta Oyster Bake, and much, much more.

• Make sure you are dealing with the right person. Typically, you’ll always want to ask for the Director of Sales or the hotel’s General Manager. These individuals will have the authority to make decisions, prepare a Request For Proposal, and sign contracts with you and your company.
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