More Than the Alamo and Enchiladas

Enjoy expansive views, explore these fresh finds on your next San Antonio trek

The Dallas to San Antonio trip is nothing new. Whether visiting family or in town for work, sometimes it seems we could do the trip in our sleep. Drive, margaritas, The Alamo, River Walk, and repeat. 

Here’s a refreshed look at Mission City that will have you feeling like you’re there for the first time. 

Stay: While Hotel Emma sits on her throne as the queen of luxurious lodging, the new Thompson San Antonio-Riverwalk is empowering high end travelers with options since opening in 2021. Spring for a one-bedroom king suite with panoramic views and a separate living area. Don’t check out without catching an epic sunset while sipping a craft cocktail at the Moon’s Daughter. 

Wine: Speaking of drinks, nothing pairs with an ice-cold glass of rosé like an East Coast oyster. At Little Em’s Oyster Bar, you’ll enjoy both after picking your jaw off of the floor from admiring the property’s adorable aesthetic. Think pink, white, open, and airy accompanied by lobster rolls, fries, and blue skies via the patio. 

Dine: San Antonio sans Tex-Mex? Sounds sinful, however, the latest and greatest restaurants are proving that more than chips and queso can thrive there. 

For example, Allora, the upscale Italian restaurant recently opened at the Pearl. The dinner menu from chef Robbie Nowlin features antipasti, seafood crudi, pasta, and entrees like grilled swordfish and rabbit.

Lovers of botanic beauty rejoice in Jardin’s opening which allows for luxurious laps around San Antonio’s signature garden followed by a meal rooted in Mediterranean flavors. Open for lunch, dinner, and weekend brunch, al fresco dining peaks when the birds are chirping and the San Antonio Botanical Garden’s 38-acres are in bloom. Weather not cooperating? The restaurant housed in the historic Daniel J. Sullivan Carriage House, originally constructed in 1896, has a warm and cozy feel perfect for catching up with a friend. 

Do: See a show. There’s no better place to do that then the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. Whether it’s comedy or dance performance, a family friendly affair, or a good ole’ fashioned concert, this venue provides guests with a performance hall, studio theater, and outdoor performance plaza. Upcoming shows include everything from Zac Brown Band to Tracy Morgan.

Those that feel no trip is complete without a little retail therapy might consider an appointment to pop into Cultus Artem to select a new, clean signature scent. Another San Antonio signature shopping move would be to stop in Dos Carolinas for a custom or ready to wear guayabera. 

Need to grab a glimpse of the true Texas Hill Country before you head back to Dallas? Make the trip out to the Loma de Vida Spa and Wellness Center for what gets my vote as the most tranquil spa situation in the city, if not the state. Leave time to float in the infinity pool and feel the stress of the day lift. You’ll undoubtedly leave feeling lighter.