How to Explore San Antonio After the Move

 Our Guest Author Today:  Mark Hansen

A view of San Antonio downtown


You have moved all your belongings to your new home in San Antonio and can finally breathe a sigh of release. After unpacking, it is time to relax and enjoy this beautiful city. If you have never visited before, you must be eager to explore San Antonio after the move. And rightfully so. This relatively tiny city was usually considered a short day trip from Austin or Houston. Over the years, the city has grown, and with it, the number of awesome things to do here. Some of its most famous things to explore are the River Walk, experiencing Tejano culture, visiting the lively new neighborhoods, and experiencing the thriving culinary scene.


Ways to Get Around in San Antonio

Just like in most cities, there are numerous ways to explore San Antonio:

  1. On foot
  2. Using public transportation
  3. Driving
  4. Cycling

Many residents of San Antonio enjoy cycling or walking as a mode of transportation. Since the city has fantastic year-round weather, it is the best way to enjoy the city. The downtown area is quite walkable, and there is usually no need for transportation. When it comes to nightlife and going to events, ride-sharing programs are pretty popular. Public transportation is also available, helping you get to your destination for an affordable price. Numerous bus routes go to the main parts of the city, and you can also use bus services to get to work. If you own a car, it is also a good way to explore San Antonio. However, driving through the narrow downtown streets can be difficult, so it is best to park your car in a lot or garage and explore the downtown area on foot. Taxis would be your last resort since they are the more expensive option and not many are available around the city.


Browse Local Shops

Once you have moved into your new house, it might take time to make it feel like home. Although the layout may be different from what you are used to, you can still adjustit to your taste and make it the way you like it. Visiting the local stores in San Antonio will spark your imagination and get you excited about the new environment. Your new place will have everything that you are used to from your past, but adding something from your new city will make it also new and thrilling.

A family having breakfast in a white dining room






Make a place feel like home by adding your personal touch


Visit the Famous River Walk

Now that you have settled into your new home, it is time to explore the world-famous 15-mile urban waterway. It offers sightseeing, shopping, and some fantastic food. The River Walk in San Antonio is the largest urban ecosystem in the US. It is below street level, providing a tranquil and enjoyable way to go around the city. You can take a walk along the river path or go for a ride and a guided tour on the river. From the River Walk, explore nearby attractions like the Alamo. You can also shop along the river's Museum Reach at the historic Pearl and wine and dine at The Food Hall. As you walk along, visit the UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. The River Walk is an endless source of activities and a great way to explore San Antonio.

Restaurants down the river with a boat






Explore the famous River Walk




Explore San Antonio and Visit the Natural Bridge Caverns

The Caverns are the largest commercial caverns in Texas. Discovered in the 1960s, they are named after a 60-foot limestone slab bridge at the entrance. These massive formations were created by single drops of water and the passage of time. Go on a tour of this natural wonder 180 feet below ground. You will be amazed by the ancient formations and giant caves. There are numerous tour options and attractions to explore:

  • Obstacle courses
  • Gem and fossil mining
  • 5,000-square-foot outdoor maze

After your big adventure, have some excellent food at Big Daddy's Sweets, Treats, and Brew.


Go Back in Time at the Alamo

A short walk from the River Walk, the Alamo is one of the most significant historic sites in the United States. When you explore San Antonio after the move, you cannot miss this attraction. This is the location of one of the most famous battles in US history—the Battle of the Alamo. A battle against a Mexican army lasted only about twenty minutes, and all the defenders were killed. It became the cradle of Texan independence, and the former mission is now a National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

View of Alamo






Explore San Antonio after the move and make sure to visit the Alamo



Do Some Shopping

When you explore San Antonio after the move, you should squeeze in some shopping time. It will help you take in the authenticity of the new city and transfer it into your new home. Shopping in San Antonio is fun and will most likely surprise you. It offers a myriad of local gems, and since this is a diverse city, you will find a mix of cultures and unique creations on every corner. Visit Alamo Heights and Pearl for some locally owned and unique boutiques. Go to Olmos Park for vintage stores and The Shops at La Cantera for upscale shopping. If you find yourself at the North Star Mall, check out the world’s largest cowboy boots – you won't be able to miss them!


Shop for Your New Home at the Historic Market Square

While exploring San Antonio, tour the Historic Market Square for a real, local feel. It is a three-block outdoor plaza filled with shops and restaurants in downtown San Antonio. This is also the largest Mexican market in the country. El Mercado and the Farmer's Market Plaza are home to more than 100 locally-owned shops. If you are looking to add the local flavor to your new home, enjoy the sights of old Mexico, where you can find authentic Talavera pottery, exotic curios, and handcrafted works of art. In addition to that, you can taste some incredible gourmet Mexican cuisine at restaurants or the Farmers Market Food Court. You will also be able to enjoy some performances that will get you even more excited about being a part of this incredibly diverse city.

You won’t lack opportunities to explore San Antonio after the move. Just go out of your home, and the road will take you to the next beautiful location, fun activity to try, delicious food, and historic site.


Author bio:

Mark Hansen is a travel blogger and a regular correspondent of Heavenly Moving and Storage from Austin. His passion is sharing his tips about San Antonio—his favorite city.


Photos:

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