The bells ring out to wake you up for another beautiful day in sunny San Antonio. Whether you’re looking to take it easy and stroll along the Riverwalk or have some exciting adventures, we’ve great suggestions for your next San Antonio weekend! 

Where to Stay

Get on it as soon as possible and make a reservation for Canopy by Hilton, located conveniently right beside the trademark Riverwalk that runs through the city. Here you’ll get a comfortable stay with some of the best views of downtown. Something we loved about this hotel is the bright and original art displayed throughout the halls and lobbies. The hotel also has bikes available to rent for strolling around the city. 

The elevated terrace bar at Canopy, called Otro, serves unique cocktails and also has wonderful views of the night sky. Here they have small bites like tacos and tostadas, and a fun cocktail menu featuring one of the best espresso cold brew infused drinks you’ll have called the Despierto. 

After delicious drinks at Otro, head to dinner downstairs at Domingo, the hotel’s restaurant that is right on the Riverwalk and has a line up of options for breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, dessert and drinks. If you go for dinner, we highly recommend trying the Elote Street Corn for an appetizer and the Quinoa Chili Bowl as an entree. Brunch here is also excellent, with options like the Churro Waffles — topped with irresistible dulce de leche syrup, strawberries and cream. 

Day One

Go City Passes

Before heading out, download Go City on your phone to make your trip as easy and fun as possible. The Go City app-based passes allow you to experience multiple attractions that are handpicked by local experts to ensure a memorable vacation in different cities, and using them in San Antonio really enhanced our trip. 

Start your day off with a Go Rio River Cruise, where you can skip the line with your Go City pass. This is a fun and relaxing way to experience the river and learn some more about San Antonio. 

San Antonio Botanical Garden

The Frida Kahlo Oasis exhibit ran at the San Antonio Botanical Gardens from May to early November and featured the famous artist’s blue home with selections of flowers that were at her home. From now until early January, the garden is hosting the not-to-be-missed Lightscape exhibit, a magical illuminated one-mile path, just in time for the holidays. No matter what the current exhibit is during your visit though, the Botanical Garden always keeps it beautiful, educational and engaging.

Day Two

Merit Coffee

Merit Coffee provides their selections for the Canopy hotel, and their roasting facility is nearby. We were fortunate enough to see behind the scenes of their process and do a tasting — or, more correctly, a cupping — of some popular Merit selections such as Lucem, Andino, Guchienda and Hola Templo; all from different regions. Merit coffee lives up to their name, as they obviously care about quality in production, and are in pursuit of “coffee perfection.”

McNay Art Museum

After enjoying a cup of Merit coffee, the McNay Art Museum has a wonderful collection within the walls of a breathtaking Spanish Colonial-Revival-style home and a rich history, as it was the first modern art museum in Texas. A few highlights were the Monet and Whistler in London exhibit, the colorful tiled stairs and impressive sculpture garden. 

Kineapple, Pearl 

Kineapple at Pearl Fool Hall, where the tagline is “Leave Feeling Better,” has delicious and healthy options like the Crunchy Kale Salad and fresh smoothies. The Pearl dynamic neighborhood, built around the historic Pearl Brewery, is a great place to hang out, get some great food and stroll around locally-owned stores. 

Tower of the Americas

For more sightseeing in San Antonio, there are no better views than those from 750 feet up in the Tower of the Americas, which can also be accessed through Go City passes. Conquer your fears while the elevator soars 75 stories above the ground. The Flags Over Texas observation deck has amazing views and some history of San Antonio as well. Here there is also a 4D Theatre Ride, gift shop and dining at Chart House, which rotates while you eat!

Kunstler Brewing

Kunstler Brewing is perfect for German-beer lovers, as they describe themselves as “Brewing With American Boldness & German Heart.” Chill with the locals here and sip on selections such as the Guava Goddess. 

Three Star Bar

Three Star Bar is a great place to hangout with friends over some great cocktails and small bites outside with fun arcade games. We enjoyed testing our strength at the boxer glove arcade game and savoring some pretzels and sweet potato fries. 

Have a fun-filled 48 hours with these San Antonio selections, sure to help you get the most of the city. 

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Cover photo Gracie Watt

Gracie Watt is the Editorial Assistant at Texas Lifestyle Magazine and a senior at St. Edward’s University in Austin, studying Journalism. When she’s not writing, Watt enjoys singing, playing the guitar and doing volunteer work. @graciethatgirl