River Walk Wonders: A 24-Hour Itinerary in San Antonio

How to Spend 24 Hours in San Antonio

After we left New Orleans, we hit the road toward the West Coast for another eight hours. We had two options - San Antonio, which was right off Route 10, or taking a little detour and spending the night in Austin. Since we’d already been to Austin, we decided to check out San Antonio and explore the city's history. We didn't have much time in the city, just under 24 hours, but we managed to hit all the must-see spots. In this blog, we'll share our itinerary to make sure you don't miss out on anything when you visit San Antonio. Let's get started!

Day 1!

Check-In!

After a long day of driving, we couldn’t wait to check into the hotel. We decided to stay at The Hotel Indigo because it was on the North River Walk and really close to the “main” River Walk, and the best part was that it was pet-friendly! The hotel was located right on the River Walk, which was perfect for a nice morning walk. We were also happy to find out that the popular River Walk area with tons of restaurants and bars was just a short 10-minute walk away. The only downside was that it was too cold to enjoy the outdoor pool that overlooked the River Walk.

We didn't know the area that well, but now we know that the main River Walk district, between N St Mary's St and Bowie Street, is where all the action is. Most restaurants are between N St Mary's St and S Alamo Street. We wished we had stayed closer to that area. Some of the hotels that looked amazing were Mokara Hotel & Spa, Omni La Mansion del Rio, and The Hyatt Regency San Antonio.

Walk the River Walk

Of course, the first thing we wanted to do when we arrived was take a stroll on the River Walk! Most of the River Walk is peaceful and nature-filled walk, especially in front of our hotel. But just a 10-minute walk south along the San Antonio River towards E Commerce Street, and you’ll hit the River Walk’s lively scene. Besides stopping in the bars and restaurants along the River Walk, make sure to take some pictures on the bridges, like the Kallison Love Lock Walk Bridge and the bridge overlooking the infamous restaurant Casa Rio, with rainbow umbrellas along the River Walk.

Grab Dinner at Tokyo Cowboy

After walking around the River Walk and building up an appetite, we decided to grab some dinner. We found a great Asian fusion restaurant, Tokyo Cowboy, just above the River Walk. The restaurant had an Austin-inspired theme, and we were really glad we chose it. The food was amazing, and the atmosphere was really nice. It was much better than the touristy restaurants you can easily get caught up in on the River Walk. We ordered a variety of dishes to share, including the shredded vegetable salad, hot chicken chili dumplings, brisket egg rolls, and steak bavette. Everything was delicious, but our favorite was definitely the brisket egg rolls. The restaurant also had a tiki bar located downstairs overlooking the river. So fun!

Take a Boat Tour on the River

After enjoying a lovely dinner, it's time to unwind and savor the breathtaking views of River Walk. And what better way to do it than by taking a boat tour? Go Rio River Boat Tours is the most popular boat tour company in San Antonio, and it offers various pick-up points along the river, including one just a block away from Tokyo Cowboy. If you happen to be in San Antonio during Christmas time, you can also opt for a special Christmas-themed tour that features music and Christmas lights along the river.

Day 1 was super fun! Check out below for the day 2 itinerary.

Day 2!

We only had a few hours left in San Antonio before needing to hit the road for another eight-hour drive, so we decided to make the most of it!

Grab Some Breakfast

Before we went to see The Alamo, we wanted to grab some breakfast. We would have loved to sit down at Domingo Restaurant along River Walk, but we didn't have enough time. So we decided to grab something on the way to The Alamo. Luckily, we had two great options nearby - La Panaderia Bakery Cafe and La Boulangerie. We chose La Boulangerie, only a few blocks from The Alamo. We got some baguettes, croissants, macarons, and coffee from there, and it was amazing! You can't go wrong with a French bakery, right? :)Visit

The Alamo

A little history about The Alamo. A historic fortress in San Antonio, Texas, stands as a powerful symbol of bravery and resilience. Known for its role in the Texas Revolution, this 18th-century mission-turned-fortress became famous for the pivotal battle fought within its walls in 1836. Despite facing overwhelming odds, a small garrison of Texan fighters valiantly defended the Alamo against Mexican forces for 13 days, ultimately sacrificing their lives in the pursuit of independence.

You have two options to explore The Alamo: you can walk around on your own or join a tour scheduled every hour throughout the day. During our visit, we decided to explore on our own, and it took us around 2-4 hours to cover everything. The area comprises the Alamo exhibit, the Alamo Church, where you can watch a short film about the Alamo, and outside gardens that showcase additional historical facts, a timeline, and barracks. If you plan to visit during the week, be aware that you might come across groups of kids on field trips. The Alamo is a spot you can't miss! Seriously, it's a must-see. And I gotta say, learning about its history was pretty awesome.

Explore Other Areas in San Antonio

If you have time, here are a few other areas to check out.

La Villita Historic Village
Located on San Antonio River Walk's southern bank, La Villita Historic Village showcases quaint cobblestone streets, adobe buildings, art galleries, Tex-Mex eateries, and vibrant arts scene. Visit the Arneson River Theatre and immerse in cultural events for a taste of history, art, and Texan hospitality.

San Antonio's Market Square
Discover "El Mercado," a vibrant hub of Texas Hispanic culture. Enjoy lively mariachi music, authentic Tex-Mex cuisine, and handcrafted goods. It's not just a market—it's a cultural celebration.

Pearl District, San Antonio
Located along the San Antonio River, Pearl District blends history with modernity, offering diverse dining, shopping, and entertainment. Explore the transformed Pearl Brewery complex and enjoy the River Walk's urban-nature fusion. Experience San Antonio's heritage and contemporary charm.

Leaving San Antonio, we'll stop in El Paso before heading to White Sands National Park and then Scottsdale, Arizona. Here we go!

“Keep San Antonio lame.”

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Exploring New Orleans: Hotel Picks and Hidden Gems on Our West Coast Journey

For our West Coast road trip, we were really excited to begin our adventure by spending the first two nights in the city of New Orleans, LA! It's just a nine-hour drive away from Orlando, FL, and we thought it would be a perfect first stop to explore a new city, indulge in some local cuisine, and listen to some great Jazz music. Plus, we've never been there before, so we couldn’t wait to see what the hype was all about! In this blog, I'll share details about our hotel, the restaurants we visited, and the areas we explored in New Orleans. Our hotel was dog-friendly, but we decided to find a Rover sitter for our dog, Marshmallow, so we could enjoy the city without any worries. Let's dive in!

Picking the Perfect Hotel in New Orleans

Choosing the perfect hotel when visiting a city like New Orleans can be quite a challenge, especially for first-time visitors like ourselves. There are so many incredible neighborhoods to explore, like the famous Bourbon Street, the charming French Quarter, and the lovely Garden District, that deciding where to stay is tough. But don't worry, we did our homework and managed to narrow down our options to find some truly exceptional hotels that we're excited to share with you!

Bourbon Street

Bourbon Street is the heart of New Orleans, known for its lively spirit, jazz music, and, of course, Mardi Gras. The street is lined with historic buildings adorned with cast-iron balconies, creating a nostalgic yet vibrant atmosphere. Music reigns supreme on Bourbon Street, with talented musicians performing on dimly lit stages. The street is also known for its mouth-watering Creole cuisine, ranging from gourmet restaurants to charming joints serving finger-licking poboys and jambalaya. Bourbon Street is a lively portal into the heart and soul of New Orleans, encapsulating its rich history, vibrant culture, and unmatched energy.

Bourbon Orleans Hotel

If we stayed on Bourbon Street, we would have stayed at Bourbon Orleans Hotel. It is located half a block off the main street of Bourbon Street, a block from St. Louis Cathedral, and two blocks from Jackson Square and the Riverwalk, where you could take a boat tour on the Steamboat Natchez. Not only is the hotel in a convenient location to see it all in a short stay, but the hotel also offers an outdoor pool!

To be honest, we were happy we didn’t stay on Bourbon Street. As fun as it is to visit for the day, it didn’t feel the safest during the “off-season” and was a bit dirty for a main city attraction.

French Quarter

If you don’t want to stay directly on Bourbon Street, there are plenty of hotel options within the French Quarter but still within walking distance to all the action of Bourbon. The French Quarter in New Orleans is a neighborhood full of rich history, vibrant colors, and enchantment. The area is renowned for its lavish architecture, lively atmosphere, and diverse cultural heritage. Take a walk through the gas-lit streets and you'll be captivated by the unique charm that surrounds you. The architecture is stunning, with ancient buildings adorned with ornate ironwork balconies, delightful courtyards overflowing with lush greenery, and picturesque cobblestone streets. The French Quarter is also home to many art galleries showcasing works by both renowned and emerging artists. From paintings to sculptures, from traditional to contemporary, the art scene in the French Quarter is as diverse and exciting as the city itself.

It was interesting to experience that the area just outside Bourbon Street, within the French Quarter, had all the cool New Orleans vibes but was much cleaner, felt safer, and was truly charming! Including only one block away, Royal Street, was full of art galleries, shops, and our favorite spot for beignets.

Hotel Monteleone

If we stayed in the French Quarter, we would have stayed at Hotel Monteleone. Known for being home to The Carousel Bar, New Orleans’ first and only rotating bar. So cool!

The Royal Orleans Hotel

Our second option for the French Quarter was The Royal Orleans Hotel. With its close proximity to renowned jazz clubs, vibrant nightlife, and world-class restaurants, The Royal Orleans Hotel promises an unforgettable stay.

Bourbon Street and French Quarter had some of our favorite foods. Check out the list of our favorite restaurants below!

Garden District

We were so excited to explore the garden district during our trip to New Orleans! We wanted to be close to Bourbon Street so we could get in on the action, but we also wanted to stay somewhere peaceful and relaxing. Luckily, we found the perfect spot. We decided to stay in an original New Orleans house that had been converted into a hotel. It was a tough choice between The Columns and The Chloe, but we ultimately went with The Columns and it did not disappoint!

The Columns Hotel

A little history about the hotel: The Columns was built in 1883 as a private residence but was converted into a boarding house during World War I. In 1953, a local family turned it into a hotel, and the bar on the porch became a star, it is now listed on the National Park Service’s National Register of Historic Places.

The hotel had a really cool vibe, with beautiful stained glass windows, unique mahogany woods, and original staircases. The best part, though, was definitely the front porches where we could enjoy a cup of coffee and take in the sights and sounds of the city. They also had an awesome bar and restaurant called The Vintage Lounge, which served delicious food and amazing cocktails. We even got to enjoy live music from a Jazz band on one of the nights of our stay!

One of the things we loved most about The Columns was its location. We were just a short walk from Magazine Street, which had many great restaurants, coffee shops, and cute stores to explore. And when we wanted to head over to Bourbon Street, all we had to do was hop on the St. Charles streetcar across the street. It was so convenient!

New Orleans Restaurants

We had two nights and a full day to explore, and we decided to spend it eating our way through the city. How could we resist? The local food was just too good to pass up! We tried everything from beignets and muffulettas to gumbo and jambalaya, and it was all so delicious! We also made sure to stop at a few bars along the way where we could enjoy some local jazz music. Here are some of our favorite spots that we discovered.

1. Cafe Du Monde vs Cafe Beignet: A Battle of New Orleans' Iconic Cafes

When it comes to iconic cafes in New Orleans, two names often rise to the top: Cafe Du Monde and Cafe Beignet. Both establishments boast a long history and are renowned for their delectable beignets, but each offers a unique experience that draws locals and visitors alike.
Cafe Du Monde

Established in 1862, Cafe Du Monde holds a special place in the hearts of many. Situated in the French Quarter, the cafe exudes a timeless charm, with its open-air seating and bustling atmosphere. The simplicity of their menu – serving just beignets, coffee, and chicory-laced café au lait – has been a winning formula for over a century. The powdered sugar-dusted beignets paired with the rich, smooth coffee make for a truly indulgent treat. Moreover, the cafe's prime location enables patrons to soak in the unique ambiance and energy of the French Quarter.
Cafe Beignet
On the other hand, Cafe Beignet offers a more contemporary take on this classic New Orleans pastry. With multiple locations across the city, including one on Royal Street (the one we went to!) and another in Musical Legends Park, Cafe Beignet provides a more varied menu while still maintaining a focus on its namesake treat. Visitors can enjoy live jazz music at the Royal Street location, adding an extra layer of ambiance to their dining experience. Additionally, the expanded menu featuring savory options and an array of beverage choices sets Cafe Beignet apart, catering to a wider range of tastes.
The Verdict: Cafe Beignet

We loved the New Orleans aesthetic of the Cafe Beignet located on Royal Street (a block over from Bourbon Street) and especially the outdoor seating. Of course, the beignets were delicious too!

2. Verti Marte vs Central Grocery and Deli

When it comes to iconic New Orleans food institutions, Verti Marte and Central Grocery and Deli stand out as two top contenders. Both renowned for their mouthwatering sandwiches, these historic establishments have earned a dedicated following among locals and tourists alike. Let's delve into the distinctive offerings of each, juxtaposing their unique charms.

Verti Marte

Address: 1201 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, Verti Marte exudes an unassuming charm. This 24-hour grocery store and deli is a go-to spot for late-night eats and comforting, made-to-order sandwiches. Locals rave about the "All That Jazz," a behemoth of a sandwich filled with layers of turkey, ham, and shrimp, all crowned with melted cheese. The convenience of being able to grab a delicious meal at any hour adds to Verti Marte's allure, making it a beloved haunt for night owls and revelers.

Central Grocery and Deli

Address: 923 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116

In contrast, Central Grocery and Deli holds a storied legacy as the birthplace of the renowned muffuletta. This Sicilian-inspired masterpiece features layers of Italian cold cuts, cheese, and olive salad, all nestled within a round sesame-seed loaf. A visit to this time-honored establishment feels like stepping into a bygone era, where the aroma of freshly baked bread and cured meats tantalizes the senses. The quaint ambiance and the undeniable cultural significance of the muffuletta firmly entrench Central Grocery and Deli in New Orleans' culinary lore.

The Verdict: Verti Marte: A Hidden Gem in the Heart of New Orleans
Verti Marte really was a hidden gem! As you step inside, it looks like a typical city bodega with refrigerators of drinks and shelves of snacks, but as you get to the back of the shop, you arrive at the counter where you can order some of New Orleans's favorite foods, like muffulettas (get it warmed up!), gumbo, and all that jazz. We were going to go to Central Grocery and Deli which is also known for its muffalettas, but we are SO glad we went to Verti Marte’s!

3. Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar

Address: 941 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar is one of the oldest bars in the U.S. Its historic, candlelit ambiance, tied to the pirate Jean Lafitte, offers a nostalgic journey. Sample unique drinks and classics in this timeless establishment.

4. The Gumbo Shop

Address: 630 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116

The Gumbo Shop is authentic New Orleans cuisine in French Quarter since 1948, featuring rich Creole and Cajun flavors with gumbo as the star dish. Also offering classic Creole and Cajun dishes, refreshing cocktails, and warm hospitality.

5. The Vintage Cocktail Bar

Address: In the lobby of The Columns Hotel

The Vintage Cocktail Bar at The Columns Hotel invites travelers to step back in time and savor the charm of a bygone era. As you enter the bar, you are enveloped by a sense of timeless elegance, with its rich wood paneling, vintage chandeliers, and plush leather seating. The ambiance exudes sophistication and offers a welcome escape from the bustling streets of the city. Boasting a carefully curated menu, The Vintage Cocktail Bar is a haven for aficionados of classic mixed drinks. Expert mixologists craft a range of signature cocktails, drawing inspiration from the golden age of cocktail culture. From the smooth notes of an Old Fashioned to the effervescence of a French 75, each libation is meticulously prepared to delight the palate and transport patrons to a bygone era of refinement and indulgence. The bar's commitment to quality extends beyond its beverages, with a finely curated selection of spirits and liqueurs, including rare finds and limited editions, ensuring that every visit is a journey of discovery for discerning connoisseurs. For those seeking an unforgettable evening steeped in elegance and sophistication, The Vintage Cocktail Bar at The Columns Hotel is a destination not to be missed.

6. Atchafalaya: A Culinary Gem in New Orleans

Address: 901 Louisiana Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115

Atchafalaya is a gastronomic gem in historic Uptown with contemporary Southern and classic Louisiana cuisine. The inviting ambiance blends modern elegance and traditional New Orleans charm, providing an exceptional dining experience. The menu showcases local, seasonal ingredients in dishes paying homage to the region's diverse culinary heritage. The restaurant's dedication to sourcing ingredients from local farmers and fishermen ensures exceptional freshness and supports the community. An impressive bar program complements the flavorful dishes with fine wines, handcrafted cocktails, and local brews.

7. Commander's Palace

Address: 1403 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130

Commander's Palace is a legendary restaurant that has been a staple of New Orleans since 1880. This elegant establishment offers a refined dining experience, adorned with chandeliers and beautiful garden views. Known for their innovative Creole cuisine, the restaurant's menu features classics such as Turtle Soup, Gulf Fish Amandine, and their famous Bread Pudding Soufflé. Don't forget to indulge in the Jazz Brunch on Sundays, complete with live music and a festive atmosphere.

8. August

Address: 301 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130

August embodies contemporary elegance while paying homage to New Orleans' rich culinary heritage. Executive Chef John Besh puts a modern twist on Louisiana ingredients, creating dishes that are as visually stunning as they are delicious. From Louisiana Blue Crab Salad to Roasted Muscovy Duck, each plate at August is a work of art. This Michelin-starred restaurant offers a truly memorable fine dining experience.

“Laissez les bon temps rouler. Let the good times roll.”

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