On the morning of my final interview before joining Visit San Antonio, I took a walk on the River Walk. It was April 2021, and I remember stopping to clear my thoughts on one of the beautiful bridges. I took a picture of the quiet River Walk early that morning and still look at that photo when I need to be inspired.
When my family and I arrived in San Antonio from Chicago a little over a year ago, it was an opportunity for us to begin a new chapter. And, while downtown San Antonio and our River Walk inspire my family as newcomers, I realize it may not do the same for locals and longtime residents.
One of the comments I have heard continually from residents is, “We do not go downtown. There is nothing for us.” Respectfully and emphatically, I could not disagree more with this sentiment. It is my goal and that of Visit San Antonio to change your mind.
Downtown San Antonio and our ever-expanding River Walk is something we would like you to rediscover. New attractions, such as Hopscotch, Alamo Plaza exhibitions and the River Walk Public Art Garden have brought new energy to the downtown area, as well as new restaurants. Parking is available at various locations and price points and several VIA bus routes connect downtown to other parts of the city.
San Antonio truly is a city that produces enchanting sceneries year-round, but fall weather and festivities make it the perfect season to explore. From the more than 80 miles of trails to the Tobin Land Bridge at Hardberger Park to our beloved San Antonio Missions National Historic Park and the many public art and mural installations throughout the city, there are plenty of ways to enjoy the great outdoors and break out of our usual routines.
While the pandemic has certainly taken its toll, San Antonio is making great strides in recovery. More than 70 new locally-owned restaurants have opened across the city since 2020 and popular experiences, such as river barge dining, are coming back just in time for the season. It is wonderful that we have such a vibrant food scene with home-grown chefs and restaurants that reflect the diverse fabric of the city.
As the city evolves, new events have made their mark and longstanding traditions are expanding. In October, San Antonio hosted the first-ever Tasting Texas Wine and Food Festival, flavored by the iconic James Beard Foundation and Culinaria. The event encouraged families to visit downtown San Antonio, invest in the city and help it grow. The community also celebrated Día de Muertos, a tradition spanning a decade throughout the downtown area. With the holidays approaching, families are preparing to participate in time-honored traditions, like the Ford Holiday River Parade and River Walk Lightening Ceremony coming up Nov. 25, from 6-9 p.m. You can enjoy holiday lights on the River Walk for free from Nov. 25, 2022 – Jan. 9, 2023.
Our friends and neighbors are maintaining traditions and creating new experiences for us all; we should support them and the many local businesses that fought so hard to keep their doors open during the pandemic. I always say a vibrant downtown filled with our amazing residents and visitors creates a solid business environment that attracts investors. In order for us to add new residential units, new restaurants, museums, attractions, and shopping and promote continued growth, we need to support downtown San Antonio. Help us do this. Help us make you more proud of San Antonio.
The enthusiasm my family and I had when we moved to San Antonio continues to this day. We are grateful for the opportunity to create new memories in a place filled with culture, character and charisma. Again, I invite you to step out and explore our many wonderful and unique neighborhoods in the Alamo City. Now is the perfect time to get started.
