I love the Botanical Gardens. The last time my step-mom came to visit we took her there (I think it was August or September) so the heat was full on -- I brought my umbrella which helped a great deal. There are some beautiful, shaded areas and then there are full sun areas. The view of the city from the Overlook is terrific.

Since you like nature you might also consider the Japanese Tea Garden located in Brackenridge Park (adjacent to Sunken Garden Theatre, very near the zoo, uses the same parking lot).

http://www.visitsanantonio.com/visit...x.aspx?id=2668

We also liked the zoo. Before we moved the zoo was working on an addition, Africa Live. I don't know whether it's open, yet. I would think so by now.

Enjoy a great trip!

AnnMarie,
Thank you for a great tip. Just checked the link for the Tea Garden, looks wonderful. Africa Live sounds amazing. I will check their website to see if it's open. Sound like there is a lot to see in San Antonio. I'd better do research on Austin too since it will be the first place to explore. Alaska Air opened flights there, not to SA:-(

In Austin, this might be up your alley. It is something to see, imo!

http://www.austincityguide.com/conte...ats-austin.asp

Enjoy a great trip!

I would definitely go the back road! I am from DFW area and I am used to the highway and I still get totally stressed on 35 south in that area. The road needs to be bigger to accomodate the traffic. If you do go the back road you can see the small towns in between. However, don't speed, they will get you!

I agree with the Hyatt Hill Country. It is a bit more... but SO-O worth it. I would not stay anywhere else! I have stayed downtown many times but still now stay at the Hyatt exclusively!! In regard to the weather... it will be hot in May or June but not over 100 likely. Just plan on hot in the middle of the afternoon. Another good thing abut the Hyatt, you can come back to the hotel in the afternoon, swim in the lazy river pool and cool off and go back to seaworld. That is great!

Thank you for your input, txbluesky. Back road sounds what I am looking for- less stress, less traffic, little towns... Thanks again...

The weather this year has been cooler than normal, so for us it's great - have windows open right now enjoying the cool air (for us). However, by late May it will definitely be warmer. For us, May is a beautiful month, but since you're from Alaska, you may find it hot for you. The good thing about Central Texas is that there are plenty of great places to cool off, Schlitterbahn, tubing, and Natural Bridge Caverns three of them mentioned here. The key is to keep hydrated, wear sunscreen, and light colored clothing and you'll be okay.