Top Five San Antonio
It was named “San Antonio” in 1691 by a Spanish expedition in honor of Saint Anthony of Padua. A Spanish mission and colonial outpost was founded there in 1718, and San Antonio became the first chartered civil settlement in present-day Texas in 1731.
It was part of the Spanish Empire, then the Mexican Republic from 1821 to 1836, before joining the United States after the annexation of the Republic of Texas in 1846.
Straddling the regional divide between South and Central Texas, San Antonio anchors the southwestern corner of the State colloquially known as the Texas Triangle. It lies about 80 miles (130 km) from Austin along the I-35corridor, and together, the San Antonio–Austin area is home to approximately 5 million people.
San Antonio is home to five 18th-century Spanish frontier missions, including The Alamo and those preserved in San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, which were collectively designated as UNESCO World Heritage sites in 2015.
The city also hosts the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo and is home to the five-time NBA champion San Antonio Spurs. San Antonio welcomes approximately 32 million visitors annually and is a key military hub, hosting several major U.S. Armed Forces facilities, including Fort Sam Houston and nearby bases such as Lackland and Randolph Air Force Bases.
The city is also home to four Fortune500 companies, the South Texas Medical Center, and the largest majority-Hispanic population in the U.S., with 64% of residents identifying as Hispanic.
Top Five Must-See Sites
The Alamo: As Texas’ top tourist attraction, this UNESCO World Heritage site is the most iconic, located downtown, representing the 1836 battle.
San Antonio River Walk: A 15-mile network of walkways along the river, featuring stone bridges, boat rides, dining, and nightlife.
The Pearl District: A former brewery complex transformed into a vibrant area featuring the acclaimed Farmers Market, top-tier restaurants, and boutique shops.
Historic Market Square (El Mercado): The largest Mexican market in the United States, offering authentic food, artisan shops, and cultural performances.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park: The only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, showcasing early Spanish colonial missions.
Destination: Texas
