South/Southeast Texas attractions
 

We plan to spend some time between San Antonio and South Padre Island in February. Does anyone have suggestions of things to see and do, that you have enjoyed? Also, we are looking for a hotel on the ocean side of South Padre, moderate price range. Any ideas?

Spend 3 or 4 days in Big Bend National Park. Lots of good hiking opportunities. Consider floating the Rio Grande in Big Bend. Check on lodging inside the park asap. I don't think you will find to much going on in Padre in Feb. Riverwalk and Alamo are nice in San Antonio. Catch a Spurs NBA game if you are into basketball.

Big Bend is on the other side of Texas...a whole other trip!

Between San Antonio and South Padre, you might enjoy a stop in Corpus Christi at the Texas State Aquarium or the Lexington, a WWII aircraft carrier. I have done the aquarium and enjoyed it, but have not toured the boat, although it's a popular attraction.

We always stay in beach houses at South Padre, so can't suggest a hotel. Look for lodging on Gulf Blvd to be sure you are on the ocean side. There should be plenty of good deals in February.

Sounds nice!

I agree; Big Bend is a separate trip.

At South Padre, I've stayed at the Radisson and the Sheraton--both are nice properties on the beach. Be sure to check out tripadvisor, though, as some friends stayed at the Sheraton this summer and there was horrendous construction going on. One even had cosntruction stuff fall on her car.

Also, the Radisson has blocks of rooms that are more like motel rooms with doors to the outside and parking out front. Some people prefer room access from inside, as you expect in a hotel, so just wanted to make you aware.

There is a turtle sanctuary, not sure of its winter hours. When I went a few years ago, it was a very small operation, but it was worth the short drive to check it out.

Petey,

You don't tell us what you are interested in but I can give you some highlights in San Antonio:

Walk the Riverwalk, no trip is complete without this.

Visit the Alamo, most will say it is much smaller than they expected but a significant piece of TX history.

A little off the beaten path, but my mom and I took the trolley a few years ago to the King William District. It is a beautiful area with old historic homes. We toured the Steves Homestead and ate at the Guenther House (good breakfast and very reasonable!)

Haven't been on the mission trail, but others say it is a very neat thing to see. You can get maps and drive to them or use public transportation.

If you like art, McNay art Musuem is a nice break from touristy Riverwalk.

Hope this helps.

As of Sunday, the McNay Art Museum is <b>closed</b> for the next five months so finishing touches can be made to an addition that will double the museums size.