King William Historic District
The King William Historic District is one of San Antonio’s most fascinating neighborhoods. This district south of downtown San Antonio is filled with gorgeous Victorian, Greek Revival, and Italianate mansions dating back to the late 1800s. Many of the elegant homes have been impeccably preserved or restored over the decades. Strolling down King William Street, you’ll feel like you’ve been transported back to the Gilded Age as you admire the sophisticated historic architecture. Today, the neighborhood also has cozy cafes, unique shops, and artsy businesses housed within some of the historic commercial buildings. This National Register Historic District is the perfect place for history buffs and architecture aficionados. Many of the mansions are open for tours too, like the grand 1884 Steves Homestead. Your group can stroll down the brick sidewalks and imagine what life was like during San Antonio’s Victorian Era heyday.
Southtown
The Southtown neighborhood offers an artsy, indie vibe in close proximity to downtown San Antonio. Centered around South Alamo Street, also known as the South Alamo Arts District, the area is known for its colorful street murals, hip locally-owned shops, creative art galleries, and an eclectic mix of restaurants. Stop for a bite to eat at friendly joints like Bakery Lorraine and Tre Trattoria for Italian comfort food. After fueling up, check out the Blue Star Contemporary art gallery or one of the quirky vintage shops filled with one-of-a-kind finds. As the sun goes down, Southtown comes alive with people visiting the various bars, live music venues, and cocktail lounges. Southtown proudly embraces its community of creatives and has an undeniably electric energy. Your group can spend hours exploring this vibrant neighborhood’s collection of street art, boutiques, and nightlife options.
Pearl District
What once was an abandoned brewery along the San Antonio River has now transformed into the Pearl District, one of the city’s trendiest neighborhoods. The mixed-use development blends 19th-century historic architecture with chic new builds. Wander down the stone paths to discover a dynamic blend of restaurants, specialty shops, green spaces, entertainment, and living spaces. By day, the Pearl is lively with people dining al fresco, strolling along the river, and checking out the weekly farmers market. As the sun sets, the energy shifts to the district’s popular bars, clubs, music venues, and comedy theater for a night out. Stop for a photo op with the iconic Hotel Emma or dine at one of San Antonio’s many celebrity chef restaurants at the Pearl like Best Quality Daughter. Thanks to its pedestrian-friendly environment and abundance of activities, the Pearl is a prime spot to spend an entire afternoon or evening when visiting San Antonio.
La Villita Historic Arts Village
For a taste of old San Antonio, head over to the charming La Villita Historic Arts Village just south of downtown. This National Register Historic District along the San Antonio River is comprised of restored adobe hacienda-style buildings from the city’s early settlement days. Today, La Villita is known as a hub for local artists. The former houses now make up quaint art galleries, shops selling handmade crafts, and charming restaurants like Cafe Navarro. Many of the historic homes still have their original 200+ year old architectural details too! Walk off your big Tex-Mex lunch with a leisurely stroll through La Villita’s cobblestone paths while soaking up all the artistic talent. Don’t forget to stop at Little Church of La Villita, a tiny historic Catholic chapel from the 1840s.
The Rim
For shopping till you drop, make The Rim shopping center your next neighborhood destination. This sprawling outdoor shopping complex in north central San Antonio has over 100 stores, restaurants, a movie theater, comedy club, and arcade. With major retailers like Dillard’s, Macy’s, and H&M, you’re bound to find amazing deals at one of the many shops. Refuel with a bite to eat at one of the Rim’s diverse eateries like RA Sushi San Antonio or Black Bear Diner. Work up an appetite again browsing home decor at places like HomeGoods, cool tech gadgets at the Apple Store, or the latest activewear at Athleta and Lululemon. The Rim has anything you could possibly want for a full day out shopping till you absolutely drop. Come with a big appetite and empty bags!
Alamo Heights
Situated directly north of downtown San Antonio, Alamo Heights exudes sophistication and old money glamour. The residential neighborhood features sprawling mansions on tree-lined streets and perfectly manicured lawns. Although Alamo Heights is primarily a residential area, the Broadway Corridor has abundant shops, boutiques, and restaurants to experience. Along Broadway Street, you’ll find chic clothing stores like James Avery and Kendra Scott, furniture shops like RH, and numerous spots for a hearty Lone Star State meal. Stop for a breather in one of the corridor’s charming pocket parks too. With its proximity to central San Antonio and abundance of stately architecture, Alamo Heights makes a lovely neighborhood for an afternoon when you want to experience the city’s more affluent side.
Monte Vista Historic District
Adjacent to downtown San Antonio, you’ll find the charming Monte Vista Historic District. This residential neighborhood filled with century-old architecture provides a quiet, verdant escape from the hustle of the city center. The historic district has over 350 houses listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The varied architectural styles include Craftsman, Tudor Revival, Mission Revival, Colonial Revival, Victorian, and Queen Anne. Many of the homes take you back to the late 1800s and early 20th century. After getting your fill of picturesque historic homes, stop for a snack at neighborhood staples like Bird Bakery and Hearthstone Bakery. Your group can unwind at one of the various pocket parks too, like Howard W. Peak Greenway Trailhead.
Book a Bus With Us
Experience the diversity of San Antonio’s neighborhoods in comfort and style with San Antonio Party Bus Company. Our charter bus services allow your group to conveniently travel around the city without worrying about traffic, parking, or navigation. Relax as our professional team comfortably transports you between all the top sights. Contact us at 210-571-7998 to request a personalized quote for your group’s ultimate San Antonio adventure. We have a variety of rental options from spacious 56-passenger charter buses to economical 14-passenger minibuses. Let us handle the transportation details so you can simply sit back and soak up the rich culture of San Antonio’s vibrant neighborhoods.