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A kaleidoscope of bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes and other wildflowers welcome visitors to San Antonio during the spring. These magnificent colors celebrate the culture and heritage reminiscent of the area. San Antonio extends a variety of attractions and activities to visitors in search of a weekend getaway or family vacation.

One of the largest parties in Texas occurs in San Antonio. Fiesta honors the memory of the heroes of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. This celebration takes place every April. This ten-day party blankets the city with festivals, fairs and parades. A few local favorites include Oyster Bake on the St. Mary's campus and A Night in Old San Antonio. NIOSA, as its known, occurs in La Villita, on the south bank of the San Antonio River. It features food booths and entertainment stages representing the diverse cultures of the city.

The San Antonio Mission National Historical Park provides a fascinating look at the Spanish and Native American cultures in the 1700's. The Mission Trail begins at the Alamo and winds 12 miles to Mission Espada. At each mission, free guided tours give visitors an in-depth look at the mission's history. Franciscan priests offer mass at the missions, as they are still used as churches. A Mariachi Mass at Mission San Jose affords an uplifting experience for visitors. A noon mass is celebrated every Sunday, with limited seating.

San Antonio supplies a plethora of family entertainment. Six Flags Fiesta Texas, a 200 acre amusement park, sits in an abandoned limestone quarry surrounded by 100 foot cliffs. Besides the thrilling rides, the park provides shows, cultural entertainment and a nightly laser and fireworks show. White Water Bay, a water park, operates next door to the amusement park. Entry is free with your paid admission to Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Another family spot, Sea World, tops the list as the world's largest marine life adventure park and family entertainment showplace. Sea World gives visitors an up-close view of some of the most unique creatures on our planet. The park puts forth theme park rides, a water park and animal performances for guest's enjoyment.

An up-and-coming attraction, on an old favorite, in San Antonio showcases the redevelopment of the Pearl Brewery. The 125-year-old Texas landmark began transitioning into San Antonio's newest place to live, learn, shop, and play. It houses the Center for Foods of the Americas which will become a branch of the Culinary Institute of America. It's also home to an Aveda Institute and Esther Vexler Yoga School.

For a relaxing evening, try Carmen de la Calle Caf. This tapas bar allows patrons to taste the flavors of Spain and Latin American while enjoying live Jazz or Flamenco music. Another local hangout, Liberty Bar, proves a true San Antonio landmark. In operation since 1890, Liberty Bar serves a mix of southern cooking, interior Mexican dishes and New American cuisine. Make sure to save room for the delicious homemade pies.

Learn more about this author, Erica Green.
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