There are plenty of activities in and around the San Antonio area to do for a solo traveler. From the downtown area to the hill country, this location has an abundance of history and activity for a weekend getaway. Having traveled there several times, here are the must see things to do for a quick trip.
Day 1
On the first day in San Antonio, check out the downtown area. Here you will find several things to do with your day and plenty of hotel options. Check with the San Antonio Visitor and Convention Bureau for a listing of all area hotels. First stop is the historic Alamo. Known for the battle fought in 1836 to protect Texas freedom, this mission still stands today and brings in thousands of visitors each year to discover its rich history. A short walk from here is the famous Riverwalk. This area boasts several colorful businesses, restaurants and attractions. One must do is the Rio San Antonio River Cruise. This 35 minute tour takes you along the river where you learn about the architecture, the river, and its history. After, you can even venture into the Rivercenter Mall where over 100 retail stores, an IMAX theater, gorgeous environment, and a Marriott hotel are all conveniently located. What more could you ask for in a mall setting. You can then continue strolling the Riverwalk to a restaurant you may have seen along the tour, visit La Villita, a one square block art community once home to Spanish soldiers, or head over to the old Pearl Brewery. You’ll find a wealth of history, specialty shops and a ton of new restaurants to satisfy a hungry soul.
Day 2
On day two, take a jaunt outside of the city heading north on I-35 about 36 miles to a little town called Gruene (pronounced Green). This small town won’t disappoint. It was founded in the mid 1840s by the Gruene family, immigrants from Germany who settled in the area to farm cotton. Still standing today are buildings from the original settlement period (Gruene Mansion Inn, Gruene General Store (the first mercantile in town, who by the way has the best honey butter around), and the famed dance hall Gruene Hall) to name just a few. Many performers got their start in Gruene Hall and you can still catch live performances or even take a look on their walls of those who have played in the venue previously. Along the streets are a variety of antique and specialty shops to spend an afternoon strolling along. While in Gruene, grab a bite to eat at the Gristmill River Restaurant and Bar that has been serving patrons since 1977 out of its historical old cotton gin.
