Page 13 - AAA Central Penn – AAA Now! Discoveries Edition – July/August 2016

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The Jewel of Texas – San Antonio
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AAA
The abundant charms of San Antonio truly set
it apart from other Texas cities. The typical Texas bravado of bigger and better does not dominate its temperament; rather, a lively civic pride is demonstrated through its preservation of history and support of traditional and blending cultures. There is a definite spicy Southwest character here, as the city embraces the many facets of its heritage mix of Tex-Mex.
The historic center of San Antonio has as its core the Mission San Antonio de Valero – better known as the Alamo. A visit of the Alamo and
its surrounding plaza, site of the tragic battle in 1836, is best appreciated with a guided tour by
a knowledgeable historian. Although central to the city’s identity, this ultimate symbol of Texas independence is just one of San Antonio’s wide- ranging attractions; let’s take a look at some of its most notable and popular.
In addition to the Alamo, another important icon of the city’s identity is the beautiful River Walk, one of the prettiest parts of its downtown area, through which the San Antonio River gracefully flows. This linear park is a haven of trees, pathways, stone bridges and glistening water as it winds through the city center and reveals its deep cultural connections and vibrant personality. Be sure to take a relaxing narrated boat ride on which you are sure to lose yourself in the beguiling scenery and atmosphere as you drift along this Paseo del Rio learning about the history, architecture and culture of the city.
Along the San Antonio River and accessible from the extensive River Walk route, are five Spanish colonial era Catholic missions: Mission San José, Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan and Mission Espada, in addition to the Alamo’s Mission San Antonio de Valero. Because of their combined historic and cultural significance, these missions were named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015, the first in Texas to receive the designation, and one of only
23 World Heritage sites in all of the United States. El Mercado, a renowned outdoor marketplace
specializing in embracing the city’s Mexican
heritage, is a colorful bazaar of crafts, clothing and collectibles, plus food products and restaurants. Here, throughout its three downtown plazas,
you are also apt to hear music and see dancing representing the region’s folkloric traditions
with a festive flair. Proudly prominent and still active in downtown life are the restored Spanish- Mediterranean design Majestic Theatre of 1929, and the Menger Hotel, where Teddy Roosevelt organized his Rough Riders in 1898. Even today, you can attend live performances at the former and sip sarsaparillas at the latter’s famous bar.
Another way to take a step back in time and experience the
early traditions and
endeavors of the San
of the Americas, along with suburban locations for SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
Journey outside the city to Stonewall to tour the LBJ Ranch, birthplace of the 36th President of the United States, Lyndon B. Johnson. Venture to delightful Fredericksburg nestled in the rugged yet pleasant and open Hill Country; the town has an unexpected German heritage, but maintains the look of the old Southwest. Go wild and discover some bold flavors
of Texas with a tour and tasting at a Hill Country olive orchard. Saddle up for a dude ranch barbecue.
Hit the trail to San Antonio for a vacation with a warm heart just south of the broad shoulders of Texas.
Edited with additional content by Craig Haberle, CTC
Antonio region are through history – brought-to-life at the South Texas Heritage Center at the Witte Museum. Get close
to nature at the San Antonio Botanical Gardens; this 38-
acre masterpiece of gardens takes you through a broad range of flora, from the indigenous plants of the Texas Native Trail to the intricate and exotic Kumamoto En Japanese garden. This city of 1.4
million residents features many other offerings for visitors and locals alike, including the San Antonio Museum of Art, Institute of Texas Cultures and Tower
spotlight on San Antonio
spotlights
Relax Texas-style as you settle into your River Walk hotel on this fun getaway that provides the perfect blend of guided experiences and free time.
February 19-23, 2017 • 5 days, 6 meals • $2,009* Book Now & SAVE $100 per person. Mission San Jose, The Alamo, El Mercado, South Texas Heritage Center, LBJ Ranch, Fredericksburg, Mayan Dude Ranch, Paseo del Rio Cruise, Sandy Oaks Olive Orchard
Call AAA Central Penn Today!
800.717.4222
*Included in Price: Round Trip Air from Harrisburg Intl Airport, Air Taxes and Fees/Surcharges, Hotel Transfers. All rates are per person, double occupancy and are subjecttochangebasedonairinclusivepackagefromMDT. CST#2006766-20 UBN#601220855 NevadaSellerofTravelRegistrationNo.2003-0279
JULY/AUGUST 2016 – DISCOVERIES EDITION
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