San Antonio, TX

This is the second in my series of great southern cities, though I must say to call San Antonio "southern" is a stretch. But many Texans proudly proclaim their ties to the south so I'll go with it. Just spent a week there and here are the highlights.



Fun--LOTS from Seaworld to the Alamo. The Riverwalk is a nice area for a boat ride, people watching, and some Karaoke or dueling pianos at Howl at the Moon or my personal favorite Pat O' Brians. A nice downtown mall for your GAP fix. The Tower of the Americas for Chart House seafood or just to check out the area from the highest point in town. Wax and Texas Ranger are just a couple types of Museum, and this is also a great place to test your spanish speaking skills.



Food--Must have Tex-Mex in the place that invented it, Rio Rio and Casa Rio both do it well. Also, a suprisingly large German community turns out some authentic Schnitzel and the local brew Shiner Bock at Shilo's. It wouldn't be complete without Texas BBQ, which is not my personal favorite but is worth a shot, the Beef Briscuit is tasty and can be had at any number of places from County Line to Bill Miller's. One of the best steaks and steakhouse experiences I've had was right here on Houston St. at Bohanon's--FIRST CLASS. If you have the family, Rainforest Cafe is always fun and you can' go wrong with a Fuddruckers Burger.



Bed--Downtown is the place to stay for local flavor and there are lots of choices. A hotel on the riverwalk is a good choice and some of the best are the Hilton, Westin, and Homewood Suites (great with kids!) The brand new Grand Hyatt is VERY nice and hip, but you'll pay for it! The Menger hotel is pretty awesome, old, right next to the Alamo, and their Presidential Suite has actually been frequented by Presidents.

This is a great, unique, city that is definitely worth the trip.