San Antonio's Best Photo Spots

Bob Wade originally gave birth to these boots in the nation's capital, for East Coast denizens who craved a taste of Texas. However, the boots made the journey with Bob back to Texas, and planted themselves in front of mall. Now, they've officially entered the bourgeoisie, when Saks Fifth Avenue moved in and even gave the boots an $80K makeover.

These limestone caverns are considered "living," which is a not-exactly scientific term to describe a cave still forming due to flowing water. The craggy chambers are filled with stalactites, stalagmites, and other alien-like mineral formations. Dedicate an entire day to this natural wonder - you will want to spend at least three hours here.

The Virgin Mary of San Antonio may not be located in the nicest part of town, but she is still a thing a beauty to behold. Make sure you get there well before sunset so that you can see the Blessed Mother in her holy splendor. Plus, this is not a location where you want to be stuck at nighttime.

In the unlikely city of San Antonio, a pretty Japanese garden has a long history, beginning in 1899. What was once a stone quarry was turned into a small paradise with the vision of local government leaders and artists. It also has a sad history when the Japanese caretakers of the gardens were forcibly removed during WWII. Afterwards the garden was temporarily named the "Chinese Tea Garden" to prevent va...

Museums can be so stodgy and priggish. The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum is different, though. It actually started out as a saloon, and then slowly acquired horns and antlers from around the world. Then, the museum opened another exhibit featuring Texas Ranger artifacts and weaponry. Still, the best part of privately run museum might be the saloon, where they make full use of the local cactii with the delic...

Riverwalks are a must-see in any large southern metropolis, but the San Antonio Riverwalk is dazzlingly romantic. It showcases the unique blend of Texan-Spanish-Mexican culture, a.k.a. Tejano, that can only be found here, the seventh most populous city in the U.S.

This artificial cave was designed by Carlos Cortes and completed in 2009. He used tons of cement to create the cave, stalactites, stalagmites, and waterfalls. Simultaneously wondrous and disturbing the undulating lines of the grotto seem to be more suited to another planet. Look closely and you might be able to see the open-mouthed head that is disguised inside the opening of the cave. The grotto is open...

This pretty stone footbridge covered in ivy is dedicated to the Tejano singer of the same name, Rosita Fernandez. Although there are many ways San Antonio has recognized her talents, this bridge is near one of the venues where she frequently performed. It's located near the San Antonio Riverwalk making it an integral part of an enjoyable outing in this neighborhood. 

One part legend and two parts history, the Alamo defines the turning point in the Texas Revolution. It's also where Pee-Wee Herman believes his bike has been held hostage - in "Pee-Wee's Big Adventure." Even though the Alamo has served as a hospital, military post, and makeshift battlement, the limestone building was originally a Spanish-era Franciscan mission.

History and wildlife coexist peacefully in this serene urban park that was once a military fort and arsenal. Deer, rabbits, and peacocks wander around the green field and military museum. Their origin is a mystery, but many believe that they were brought here to keep Geronimo and his men company during their imprisonment at Fort Sam Houston.

A giant, circular slab of wood with a bison emblazoned on its surface marks the entrance to the parking lot of this unique business. They've been around since 1948 when they started the tradition of making custom printed wooden nickels. Inside you'll find a museum-like display of their wares. The giant nickel outside might be the world's largest at 13 feet tall, 4 inches thick, and 2,500 tons!

The unique architecture of the church as well as the pastoral beauty gives significance to this mission. Founded in 1720 by Fray Antonio Margil de Jesús this is one of the most popular missions in Texas and is also a UNESCO World Heritage Site. There is a regular Mass schedule; check the website for days and times. Mass is given in both English and Spanish. (Submitted by Dennis Sanford)

In 2002 the Mexican government gifted the city of San Antonio with this abstract work of art created by sculptor, Sebastian. The name in English means "The Torch of Friendship," a great symbol for a city with a large population of Mexican descent. Installed in Downtown San Antonio, the 65-foot-tall sculpture is located in the middle of the intersection of Losoya, Commerce, Market, and Alamo Streets.