San Antonio

#freemuseumdays Downtown arts and crafts thrive in Market Square and La Villita. The former, America’s largest Mexican market, buzzes with mariachi performances, authentic eats, and local artisans . Meanwhile, La Villita offers a historic charm through folk art galleries and riverside ambiance . Both bring a festive, colorful energy to exploration. The city’s museum and garden scene round out its cultural offerings. The McNay Art Museum—Texas’s first modern art museum—houses European, American, and modernist works within a Spanish Revival mansion and Japanese-inspired gardens . For a breath of fresh air, the San Antonio Botanical Garden spans 38 acres of themed landscapes, conservatories, and educational pathways . Culinary adventures in San Antonio balance tradition and innovation. It’s officially a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy . Staples like La Panadería (a James Beard–semifinalist bakery opening a flagship location) pay homage to Mexican and European pastry traditions . Meanwhile, eclectic eateries are gaining acclaim: Tong’s Thai wins praise for its addictive sesame chicken sauce , and Express‑News’ Top 50 Restaurants list highlights emerging gems—from Indian spice at Madurai and Moroccan Bites to local brunch staples