by Betsy Young

Created on: August 28, 2008   Last Updated: August 13, 2009

San Antonio is full of hidden treasures and architectural gems. The Riverwalk serves as a courtyard for this fabulous city so enjoy it, then come on inside.

San Antonio is the southern anchor for Texas Hill Country. Hidden away are some of the finest wineries in America. The wine rarely leaves the state only because the locals drink it all. Take a day and head to the north side on I-10 and you will find Singing Waters and Comfort Cellars wineries. Both give free tours and tastings. While visiting Singing Waters grab a few bottles of their reserve a cabernet/merlot blend that is simply sumptuous.

Northwest from downtown is the Deco District. Take a walking tour amongst the wealth of 1930's homes in this area or simply drive down Fredricksburg Rd. Check out the Bihl Haus Art Center. Swing over to the San Antonio Museum of Art to finish out the day.

No trip to San Antonio would be complete without stopping off at Casbeers a real live Texas dive. Here is where green chili enchiladas meet chicken and dumplings and it is down home cooking not fusion food. Romp it up when the band starts and someone will teach you the Texas Two Step if you don't already know it.

Make a date for Azuca, some of the finest food offered in San Antonio. After dinner you will have a chance to try your hand at dancing Latin style. Should the music set you on fire head over to the Luna Fine Music Club where all the hottest dancers gather.

Hit the Market and pack a picnic for an afternoon in the Japanese Tea Garden. On the end of Brackenridge Park, this old limestone quarry tuned garden space has been a San Antonio favorite for over a hundred years. Check the amphitheater for shows. Stroll around the koi pond and visit the pagoda.

Get your cowboy on with horseback riding in the Hill Country. On the northeast side of the city are several ranches that will help you out. Novice or expert there are rides to be had. I like the Bar M Ranch where they will even show you how to cut the cattle if you want. The Running R Ranch is a good one too with rides from one hour to half a day in the hills.

You have to see the King William District or what we call Sauerkraut Bend. Take a walking tour of this 1840's German immigrant neighborhood anchored by the Blue Star Art Complex, Guenther House and Steve's Homestead Museum.

The Spanish Governor's Palace is the most beautiful building in San Antonio. This is where Spain housed the provincial government before Texas was part of America.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is a day trip you cannot miss. Here you can walk, bike or travel by car along the Mission Trail visiting four of the area's Missions. A breathtaking day that fills you with the spirit of early day Texas.

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