San Antonio Top 5

Peace Like a River Walk: Meandering through the heart of downtown, the San Antonio River won't elude you. Walk along its cypress-draped serenity for a relaxing stroll, or take a dinner cruise aboard a barge.

On a Mission Trail: Five missions from the 1700s, including the Alamo, are all within city limits. Follow the signs to find these exquisite buildings with Spanish-colonial architecture.

An Art Attack: At museums, galleries, and a school devoted to arts education, the arts—and artists—are flourishing in San Antonio. Take in an exhibition while in town, or watch an artist at work.

Hispanic Culture: From the new Alameda museum focusing on Latino arts to the shops, restaurants, and entertainment at Market Square, a Mexican sensibility saturates San Antonio.

Family Fun: Thrill rides, Shamu sightings, serious splashing at the water parks, and a science-themed tree house at the Witte Museum are the reasons kids (and their parents) want to keep coming back to San Antonio.