SAN ANTONIO CITY GUIDE
Want to get to know your city through Eli eyes? We’ve got you covered.
San Antonio
Mark Twain said there were only four unique cities in America: Boston, San Francisco, New Orleans, and San Antonio. That was true in the 19th century, and it’s true in the 21st. Welcome to the River City, the biggest small town in America, where everyone from small-time ranchers to big-time venture capitalists look you in the eye and say good mornin’ on the sidewalk.
Lodging
San Antonio is known for its hospitality. Naturally, we have some great hotels. For an upscale destination in the heart of the new Downtown, we recommend the Hotel Emma. From the hosted margaritas that greet every guest to the beautiful pool, this is a place to see and be seen, right in the heart of the Pearl shopping district. For a more intimate, boutique experience, the Hotel Havana really stands out. On the banks of the San Antonio River, its old-world aesthetic and dim basement bar rule the night for those in the know. Finally, for a full resort destination, the J.W. Marriott Hill Country Resort and Spa is a can’t-lose proposition. Just North of the city, its golf, swimming, and other on-site amenities make it a place with something for everyone.
VICTUALS & LIBATIONS
San Antonio is a UNESCO-designated culinary heritage site. In other words, there are too many delicious places to sit down for vittles and bits in this town to possibly place on a single list. Nonetheless, if you’re just getting to know San Antonio, here are a few places to break in your palate and experience the breadth of San Antonio’s culinary scene.
Bliss (New American)
Pete’s Tako House (Mexican)
Cured (Charcuterie)
Botika (Latin Sushi)
Cheesy Jane’s (Hamburgers)
Battalion (Italian)
Just looking to get a drink? Our crew suggests Jet-Setter (craft cocktails), Alamo Beer Company (brewery), and Stay Golden Social House (jack-of-all-trades neighborhood bar) as of-the-moment spots to tip the wrist.
Retail
While the retail options in San Antonio are as limitless as they are in virtually any major American city, four areas stand out as loci of curated—and distinctive—shopping. First, there’s the aforementioned Pearl. Brick-lined paths and independent retailers rule here, along with equally independent dining shoppes. Second, there are the Shops at La Cantera. Go here if you’re looking for standard, high-end boutiques in a relatively calm, outdoor mall setting (think Nordstrom and the Apple Store). Third, there is La Villita. Here, in what is left of the original San Antonio settlement just South of the Alamo, you’ll find artisanal gems from small, independent craftsfolk.
Neighborhoods
Near-downtown neighborhoods like King William and Tobin Hill tend to be the most sharply distinct, but outlying areas like Sonterra also contain their share of surprises. Best bet? Explore!