I started writing this letter in Pennsylvania while visiting my son and daughter-in-law. It was a lovely first time to visit, and as we were driving through the picturesque countryside — and checking Fallingwater off my Bucket List — I realized how magical first visits are. The ones that make you start planning your next visit right away. And another thing kept coming to mind: If I were visiting San Antonio for the very first time, I’d fall for it — fast. The colors, the sounds, the food, the warmth of the people, the way history and creativity sit side-by-side. It’s one of those cities that doesn’t try too hard; it just is charming. Whether you are a first-time visitor discovering our vibrant city or a local that knows all the best places to go, I hope you find that sense of wonder woven through this issue.
At the heart of San Antonio’s magic is something we champion loudly: funding the arts. When we support our theaters, galleries, musicians, dancers and cultural spaces, we’re not just keeping traditions alive — we’re building the city’s future. Arts and culture are where San Antonio’s personality shines brightest, and that’s especially true as we look ahead to the 2026–27 performing arts season, which is shaping up to be full of bold premieres, fresh collaborations and reimagined classics.
We’re also stepping into the world of restaurant design, because the space around your plate matters more than people realize. Lighting, sound, textures, a room’s storied past — it all shapes how a meal feels. San Antonio’s historic spaces easily lend themselves to an adaptive reuse movement, where chefs and designers are creating dining rooms that tell stories before the food even arrives.
River Walk restaurants are historic landmarks in their own right, and we are giving them some well-deserved local love. This issue highlights tourist-facing restaurants that locals should absolutely revisit, whether for the nostalgia, the views or simply because the food is genuinely great.
Beyond downtown, we head into the hills to explore the history of Hill Country wines — a tale of experimentation, grit and a region that has quietly become one of the most exciting wine destinations in the country.
Back in the city center, we round up the best kid-friendly fun downtown, proving that the urban core is just as playful as it is historic. We also highlight Rey Feo who knows that just because the party is over, the purpose is not. And we share the story of Mount Rushmore’s San Antonio origins.
Finally, Stars & Stripes on Houston Street is back — and better than ever. This beloved event once again transforms one of our most iconic corridors into a lively, patriotic tribute to community and heritage. This year, the festivities stretch even further, expanding into Civic Park at Hemisfair for an all-day celebration honoring America 250.
San Antonio is glowing, growing, and creating with real momentum. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a life-long local, there’s always something new to love. Let’s keep showing up, supporting the arts, exploring our neighborhoods, and celebrating everything that makes this city one-of-a-kind.
