San Antonio in a Day or Two: A Weekend Trip Travel Guide

San Antonio Texas markets itself as "deep in the heart." While this could be because of its location deep into the south-central part of Texas, it is more likely because of the rich history and culture that San Antonio offers its visitors. If you are planning a weekend trip or short vacation to San Antonio, here are some highlights that you will want to make some time to see.

1. The Alamo (Time Needed: 3 hours) - The Alamo is one of the most visited places in all of the United States. The Alamo is located in the heart of San Antonio and today resembles only a shell of its former glory. A lot of people don't really know what the Alamo is all about. Or if they think they know, visiting this iconic place that's name is etched on the walls of history will surely give you a different view of what really happened on its hallowed ground back in 1836. This is a great place to go to learn about the birth of the republic of Texas (now the state of Texas) and will help visitors (especially out of state ones) to understand why people from Texas are so proud of where they come from. They have a great gift shop where you can pick up some awesome souvenirs. One tip I have for you is to either watch the movie "The Alamo" or the History Channel's documentary on the Alamo before you visit. This will help to make your visit even more enjoyable.

2. The River Walk (Time Needed: 3-5 hours) - This is the place where people love to hang out. In fact, its website proudly boasts that it is the #1 entertainment destination in all of Texas! If you go during the day it is much less congested and can be a very romantic place to stroll through with your loved one. If you go at night, then be ready for a lot of people. Either way, it is a must see if you are planning a trip to San Antonio.

The San Antonio River Walk offers some great attractions and eateries. You can take a 35-minute cruise on the river (dinner cruises available as well) with a guide offering a narrated history of the beautiful San Antonio River Walk. If you are looking for a place to eat, the River Walk also offers restaurants ranging from authentic Mexican cuisine to tasty BBQ to the wildly popular Rainforest Cafe. After dinner you can go grab a slab (or two) of ice cream at one of the River Walk's ice cream shops.

3. Rivercenter Mall (Time Needed: 1-2 hours) - If you have the itch to pick up a souvenir or just want to check out a really cool mall, then the Rivercenter Mall will fit you just fine. This mall is located right along the River Walk and offers the major shopping mall experience but with a great view of the river.

4. The San Antonio Missions (Time Needed: 4 hours) - The San Antonio Missions is a National Historic Park that preserves four Spanish missions established by the Catholic Church in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries. Whether you are a history buff or not, this is a must see. But if history is your thing then you will want to set a few hours aside to walk the missions and talk with guides and park volunteers. The San Antonio Missions are located a few miles outside of the downtown area and are each in separate locations.

5. Six Flags Fiesta Texas or Sea World San Antonio (Time Needed: All Day) - If you have an extra day to spare and are looking for a great place for the kids or to just have some fun then you have to check out Six Flags Fiesta Texas or Sea World San Antonio (or both). Both of these locations offer some great entertainment and fun for everybody in the family. If it's thrills and chills then Six Flags will serve up your order. If you are more interested in getting close to our friends from the animal kingdom then Sea World is the place for you. Either way, these are destination locations located in San Antonio that will turn any trip into a trip to remember.

This travel guide will help you to make sure that you see some of the great things that San Antonio has to offer its visitors on your next trip. The great thing is that most of them are things that the whole family can enjoy or perfect for a couple looking for a romantic getaway. Either way, you will surely have a great time during your trip "deep in the heart" and just maybe San Antonio will find a special place in your heart as well!

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