For the best view in San Antonio, go directly to the Tower of the Americas, which was built for the World's Fair back in 1968. Located downtown, this 750-foot-tall structure in the middle of Hemisphere plaza offers the most spectacular views from its observation deck, as well as a fun-tastic 4D Theatre ride the kids will love! If you want to go all out, grab a bite to eat at Chart House, the fine-dining restaurant that sits atop the tower, revolving slowly, much to everyone's delight. Make sure to take time to enjoy Hemisphere park, which is made up of beautiful grounds, waterfalls and fountains, a children's playground, historic buildings and is also home to the Institute of Texan Cultures and the Children's Magik Theater.
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: The Tower is the ideal place for special surprises, if you know what we mean!
Kimberly's expert tip: Let the Tower know that you're planning on eating at the Chart House and you won't have to buy a ticket to the observation deck!
If you want to find great shopping, food and the oldest dance hall in the Lone Star State, you'll have to make the trip back in time to a tiny community right outside New Braunfels, called Gruene, but pronounced like green. Gruene Hall has been in continuous operation since 1878, and over the years folks like Lyle Lovett, George Strait, and Robert Earl Keen've played to packed houses. During the day, Gruene is a favorite of history buffs and antique hounds, who scour stores like Cactus Jacks and Black Swann for everything from old bottles and battered signs to European furniture and arrowheads. There're also a few places to cool your heels, most notably Janie's Table, known for their Hill Country-style. The Grist Mill is another notable destination for great food, right along the river.
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: Gruene Hall is the perfect option for couples who love music and a little bit of history.
Kimberly's expert tip: Gruene is a charming little hamlet, perfect for a day trip, so make sure to take time to dine and shop as well.
Just 90 miles from San Antonio lies the second largest batholith in the United States. Enchanted Rock has seen human activity up to 11,000 years ago. You'll enjoy fun and enriching activities like backpacking, camping (primitive also), hiking, rappelling and rock climbing, bird watching, and the stars at night are absolutely amazing! Local legend has it that the Tonkawa Indians named Enchanted Rock because of the sounds they heard coming from the rocks at night. They believed the formation was enchanted. This is one of the most beautiful natural areas in Texas. There is also a cave towards the top of the formation, but beware if you are claustrophobic, it is very cramped and at times you find yourself crawling. Flashlights are a must!
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: Active couples will enjoy exploring the beauty of this amazing park.
Kimberly's expert tip: If going on the weekends, make sure to arrive early as the park fills up quickly.
San Antonio likes to lead the way in all things and the zoo is no exception. Parents magazine ranked the San Antonio Zoo as one of the Top 10 Best Zoos for Kids. It is also the third largest zoo in the nation so there is plenty to see. Home to over 8,500 animals, the zoo is open 365 days a year, rain or shine. There are plenty of places to grab a cold drink or a bite to eat as you spend the day exploring. The San Antonio Zoo is about 10 minutes from the downtown area. We recommend you bring your sunscreen as you explore this friendly animal world. Your kids will want to stay awhile.
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: The San Antonio Zoo is a wonderful place for a couples date for folks who like to indulge their inner child.
Kimberly's expert tip: Take a picnic to enjoy in the park before visiting the zoo.
The Moon's Daughters rooftop restaurant and bar hits every note, from the ambiance to the exceptional service, incredible food, gorgeous views of downtown San Antonio and phenomenal cocktails. This is an ideal place for a date night or special occasion of any kind. Start the evening out with a few cocktails at sunset out on the terrace, often accompanied by live music or a DJ. There are options to dine on the various patio spaces or inside at a high-top table or in the lounge area. The Mediterranean-inspired menu is small but thoughtfully-designed. If you're aiming to impress, order the epic seafood tower that includes Chef Cantu's signature Char Grilled Octopus Skewers, which are sous vide to perfection. From Crispy Meatballs to Artichoke Hummus, Straw and Hay Ricotta Gnudi and Panzanella, there are plenty of stunningly flavorful bites to share. For entrees, go bold with the Braised Lamb Shank or Seared Black Bass. Just make sure to leave room for dessert!
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: If you're looking to splurge and paint the town red, visit this sexy rooftop bar with one of the best views of the city.
Kimberly's expert tip: Plan on dining as well as enjoying drinks on the gorgeous terrace.
San Antonio's Japanese Tea Gardens feels like a set straight out of a movie, something like What Dreams May Come or Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon. The point is, it's a magical and enchanting place, perfect for declarations of love and sonnet writing. The restored garden is a beautiful destination all year long and features a verdant garden and floral display with shaded walkways, stone bridges, a 60-foot waterfall and ponds filled with fat and happy Koi. A whimsically winding walkway encompasses the garden and makes for nice after dinner stroll. If you visit just one of San Antonio's landmarks, be sure to make it this one!
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: The Japanese Tea Garden offers a free, romantic setting for couples on a budget.
Kimberly's expert tip: If you're looking to take couples photos, this is the place!
The San Antonio Museum of Art boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of ancient Egyptian, Greek, Roman and Near Eastern art in the southern United States. It is also one of the largest collections found in public museums. The size and variety of all the exhibitions is astonishing. Located on the River Walk, the museum is also host to many children during the school year. The vast array of educational information makes it a very attractive place for field trips. The museum hosts over 500 guided tours each year and is appealing to adults seeking scholarly immersion as well as families with young children.
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: SAMA is a great way to get your creative juices flowing!
Kimberly's expert tip: Make sure to leave time to have lunch at Tre Trattoria, an Italian eatery, located inside SAMA.
One of Boerne's most delightful attractions is the Cibolo Nature Center. Tucked amidst huge sycamore trees along the Cibolo River, the CNC boasts marshes, a butterfly habitat, wildlife and several hiking trails. In June 1997, the center lost many trees to a large summer storm. 15 inches of rain fell on the community. The resulting flood exposed dinosaur footprints on the Boerne Lake spillway. A careful replica of the tracks was made and positioned next to the gazebo at the nature center before the tracks were buried by water or vegetation again. This is a favorite exhibit amongst children. These days the center is host to school field trips, bird watchers, and nature lovers in general. The center hosts seminars on wildlife, bats, and even astronomy.
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: Nature loving couples will appreciate the serene surroundings at Cibolo Nature Center.
Kimberly's expert tip: Check the website for special events such as yoga and workshops.
The beautiful little German towns are not the only reason that visitors and locals flock to the mecca known as the Texas Hill Country. The area is home to over 30 wineries, each with its own flavor and unique venues and this Texas Hill Country Wine Tour is the perfect way to really relax and enjoy the fruit of the Texas vines and the beautiful scenery that goes with it! Your wine tour adventure includes a fabulous guide to cater to your needs throughout the day, comfortable, air conditioned transportation (usually a luxury mini-bus*), as well as visits, tastings, and sometimes winery tours to at least 3 wineries throughout the Texas Wine Country. Guests will also enjoy a delicious lunch to enjoy along the way while learning fun and interesting facts about Texas wines, trivia, and some general wine knowledge.
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: This is a great way for couples to spend the day together sampling some amazing wines from the Texas Hill Country!
Kimberly's expert tip: They also offer brewery tours or combo tours including wine, beer and spirits.
Hiatus Spa and Retreat likes to take a fresh approach to relaxation and overall wellness. They believe that a day at the spa isn't just a luxury but a necessity. San Antonio's location at the stunning Pearl Brewery is one of their newest location and a convenient choice if you're staying at Hotel Emma. You can enjoy all of the traditional treats (or treatments) at Hiatus, such as massages, facials and pedicures. They also offer packages, such as The Big Chill, which includes a 90-minute Signature Massage followed by a super-charged plant peel (The Perfectionist Facial), which will help you regain that lovely glow. You might also want to consider their "Happy, Happier, Happiest" package, which pampers you from head to toe. It combines their three most popular treatments - the Signature Massage, The One and Only Mani-Pedi, and The Tailor-Made Facial. Why not treat yourself today? You deserve it!
Recommended for Romantic Things to Do because: Hiatus Spa offer the ultimate luxurious spa day for couples looking to pamper themselves.
Kimberly's expert tip: Cap your spa day off with dinner or drinks at Hotel Emma, located right next door.