San Antonio is one of my favorite cities! The history, foundation for the birth of Texas as a state, River Walk, patriotism,  and beauty all in one place! Because my sister was attending a music conference, we got to stay right in the middle of downtown and really explore a lot of the hidden and not so hidden gems of the city. There is just so much in the area to do that we already have a list for our next visit!

• visiting the largest original and rebuilt mission, Mission San Jose
• a small piece of the original fresco painting
• las tres amigas

• Mission San Juan
• the aquaduct built to bring water to the farthest missions for crops, etc.

• Mission Espada

• Mission Concepcion
• what looked to be an abandoned old school that I wanted to renovate!

• we were all able to get tickets for both of the concerts at the music teachers’ conference and they did not disappoint! we were able to see both Emmanual Ax and Time for Three in concert and while youtube is great, there’s nothing like seeing a live performance!

 

A Texas native, rancher and stateman, Jose Antonio Navarro lived through Texas as a part of Spain, Mexico, the republic of Texas, and finally the United States. His original home is preserved right in the middle of the city as a museum and history tour of Texas.

Market Square

• • O’Henry’s house and where he started his newspaper

Governor’s Palace

While I might greatly disagree with the policies and leading of our former president, Lyndon Baines Johnson, it was really inspiring to visit his childhood home and hear how his parents and upbringing greatly influenced who he became as a person and president.

The one-room schoolhouse where LBJ grew up, the house where he was born, and the family cemetery.

LBJ Ranch including where the Secret Service worked and the runway where Air Force One-Half flew in and out of, all on a working cattle ranch.

The Texas White House including the Cabinet Oak

The hill country around San Antonio is just beautiful, especially during poppy season!

A trip to San Antonio isn’t complete without authentic Mexican fajitas!