I recently had the pleasure of experiencing a weekend getaway that felt more like a true destination vacation. It reminded me that the opportunities to “getaway” don’t have to require a week’s vacation time to create memories and enjoy the benefits of travel. San Antonio was a short flight away and provided history, culture, and a fun, easy getaway!
We traveled a short distance from the airport to our hotel, the Omni La Mansion del Rio, in the Riverwalk area. Immediately, we were struck by how beautiful and charming this luxury, hacienda style hotel was with arched doorways and Spanish Colonial architecture. It was once a school dating back to 1853. The hotel has done a fantastic job of honoring its history while bringing it to a level of modern-day luxury guests can enjoy. With spacious rooms, lively bar and restaurant and beautiful courtyards it is well suited for a romantic getaway, girls’ weekend, or wedding as we witnessed during our stay. I especially enjoyed our in room balcony which overlooked the street below allowing me to watch the horse drawn carriages as they passed.
The location is fantastic. The riverwalk area is truly a special place to be during the holidays with cypress lined paths along the river lit up with colorful lights and music spilling out from the many restaurants and bars all along the walk. In the evening, small boats decked out for the holidays carry guests along the waterway while playing Christmas carols and adding to the joyful atmosphere. That evening, we enjoyed ourselves at The Country Line restaurant which was less than 5 min walk from the hotel. Texas barbecue with a view of the river had us deep into enjoying this destination within an hour of arrival. So easy and fun!
After dinner, we walked to San Fernando Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the United States, to watch The Saga. The Saga is a light show with projection covering 7000 ft, set to music, and depicting the history of San Antonio. Families and friends gathered to watch. There was hot chocolate and other treats for sale. It was beautiful and a great way to end our first day.
The next morning, we took a narrated cruise along the river with Go Rio boat tours. This gave us a little more perspective on the history and development of the area. We passed historic buildings, art, and cruised under charming old bridges along the waterway. It was a peaceful and easy way to get to know the area better. Another option is to rent the boats for a private dinner cruise.
Next, we set out for the Alamo. We were able to go inside the historic church to explore and learn about the events of the Alamo. History came to life at the Alamo with carolers and craftsmen in period costumes demonstrating what life would have been like. Such a fun way to experience this historic site.
More fun was to be had with margaritas at the Mariachi Bar and a delicious lunch at Mi Tierra Café y Panaderia. This restaurant is worth a visit not only for the unique decorations which fill the place from floor to ceiling, but the vast TexMex menu which is sure to please everyone in the group. Watch out for jalapeno margaritas! We left full and happy, ready for shopping at the nearby Market Square which is filled with crafts and unique items from Mexico and Texas.
The next morning, I took the time to enjoy the area surrounding the hotel with a morning walk to a La Panaderia (a local favorite!) and coffee shop before setting out for the afternoon. Others enjoyed mass at San Antonio Missions National Historic Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site. As one of the oldest Spanish Missions of San Antonio, the church has served the faithful since 1731.
Our vacation was not over yet! We enjoyed a farm to table lunch at Supper in the beautiful Pearl District and a visit to the stunning Hotel Emma. The Pearl District is a delightful area with shops, green spaces, restaurants and more all coming together to offer a unique experience in the heart of San Antonio. The Hotel Emma is at the center of it all offering a historical and extraordinary experience to its guests.
Once a 19th century Brewhouse, the Hotel Emma is now a 146-room hotel with exceptional accommodations and dining as well as large event space on site. Great care has been taken to maintain the history of the location with detail and distinction. The hotel lobby offers a nod to its origins with steam pipes and parts among rich leathers and velvet welcoming guests. The creative use of its old brew tanks as cozy booths in the hotel bar makes it a one-of-a-kind destination for events or intimate get-togethers alike. It is a step back in time and a premier hotel in San Antonio worth visiting. This hotel is a destination unto itself.
After a brief stroll around the Pearl Market and some last-minute shopping, we left for the airport. I am still in awe of how all there was to do and see in San Antonio with only 2 nights. I never felt rushed or overscheduled yet was totally transported for our short weekend getaway. With so much to offer, I think San Antonio would make a fantastic family vacation or girl’s weekend retreat. I am already planning my return to delve deeper into the fun!
