Getaways

Since its founding in 1718, San Antonio has been a meeting place of cultures—Native American, Mexican, Texan, German and Southern U.S. among them. America’s eighth-largest city showcases this diversity with multicultural celebrations, historic sites and unique dining destinations. (www­
.sanantonio visit.com)

SEE: Remember to visit the Alamo! Then on to the River Walk—two and a half miles of cafés, art galleries, nightclubs and hotels bordering the San Antonio River and the city’s main street. History comes alive at the Spanish Governor’s Palace, Fort Sam Houston, and the University of Texas at San Antonio’s Institute of Texan Cultures, which chronicles the 25 ethnic groups that made the state what it is today. Bike or walk to see the four Spanish missions dating from the 1700s at the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park to get a true sense of the city’s roots.

STAY: River Walk’s crown jewel, the historic and recently refurbished Omni La Mansion del Rio, features updated amenities and Old World charm.

DINE: The best Mexican food in town might be at the Taco Taco Cafe, where San Antonio denizens line up for freshly made breakfast and lunch. An increasingly sophisticated dining scene includes chef Andrew Weissman’s French cuisine; his Le Rêve is one of the best restaurants in Texas. Scott Cohen’s Las Canarias is making waves with a contemporary twist on Southwest ingredients, and Biga on the Banks specializes in Texas Hill Country delicacies.

SHOP: The downtown La Villita district’s historic buildings are home to more than 25 local artists and craftsmen.Here’s the place to pick up truly unique gifts, from glass to weavings to pottery, paintings and Christmas ornaments. Market Square, the largest Mexican marketplace outside of Mexico, also features all things San Antonio.

INSIDER’S TIP: San Antonio’s Hispanic heritage is reflected in its museums. The San Antonio Museum of Art has the largest collection of Latin American art in the United States. Museo Alameda, an arts and theater complex, features exhibitions, performances and educational programs about the Latino experience in the United States.