Fodor's Expert Review Villa Finale Museum & Gardens

This former home of San Antonio preservationist and collector Walter Mathis (who is widely recognized as the catalyst for the revitalization of the King William neighborhood in the late 1960s) is not only a National Trust for Historic Preservation site but also a San Antonio treasure. Villa Finale is home to more than 13,000 pieces of fine and decorative art, including what is believed to be one of the most complete collections of Napoleonic materials. Museum admission includes a self-guided tour, and staff are available to answer questions. There is no fee to see the gardens.