Centro de Artes, one of the City of San Antonio’s exhibition spaces.
City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture
As a San Antonio native, you may think you’ve seen all there is to see in the city. But the summer season offers plenty of time to explore often-overlooked areas.
Users on a locally themed Reddit page discussed an issue many Texans face after living in a city for too long: plans for a night out are always the same. After being shared on Saturday, June 20, it quickly gained traction as residents shared spaces that don’t get as much love but are still worth a visit.
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THE GAZEBO (LOS PATIOS):
2015 NE LOOP 410
San Antonio , TX 78217
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“I feel like we always end up going to the Japanese tea garden, the Pearl, or La Cantera. I love them, but I want to find something more fun, interesting, and new,” the post read, adding that the user was seeking places that are “actually fun” rather than age-old recommendations.
Comments from San Antonians ranged from scenic activities that double as exercise to lesser-known art museums.
Rent bikes from Blue Star
Blue Star isn’t only home to bars, brunch, and live music — though you may decide to follow this event with one of those escapades. For just $25, folks can rent a townie bike for four hours. Road bikes cost $40 per person for the same four hours, while e-bikes cost $45 per person.
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“It’s scenic, cheap, and it’s good exercise,” a Reddit user said.
Don’t know where to pedal? You could invite family and friends and choose to go with a Blue Star trail guide. The leader will “assist with information on the San Antonio Missions, city history, recommend tourist activities, and provide bike maintenance should there be any,” per the website.
Find it: 1414 S Alamo St. Suite #105 C., San Antonio, TX 78210
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Visit the Centro de Artes Gallery
Calling all those who like events that start with “free.” Centro de Artes, located downtown in Historic Market Square, features a two-story exhibition titled “A Postmodernist Says ¿Que?” on display. If you’ve been to the McNay and Witte three too many times, try this one out.
“It’s quite big, and they have a really nicely curated postmodern exhibition right now,” another Reddit user wrote. “It’s also at the entrance to the Market Square, so after you’re finished, you can go get overpriced margaritas or walk down the riverwalk or something.”
Through Sunday, August 30, visitors can view a collection that “explores the Latinx experience framed within various realms of humor,” according to the City of San Antonio’s website.
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Find it: 101 S. Santa Rosa Ave., San Antonio, TX 78207
An installation at Centro de Artes, one of the City of San Antonio’s exhibition spaces.
City of San Antonio Department of Arts & Culture
Actually explore the Wonderland of Americas
You’ve been here, but have you visited more than three stores in a single trip? One social media user says this is an interesting way to spend time, since festivals and conventions often take place on weekends. In July, for example, a Mall Walkers Expo will feature several of the Walking Dead stars, food vendors and merchandise.
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“CD Sam’s is my favorite record store in town,” another Reddit user said. “Plus, food court prices are still reasonable, AND it’s home to the Texas Horror Museum! Mostly, it’s a really great place to support your very small local businesses.”
Find it: 4522 Fredericksburg Rd., Balcones Heights, TX 78201
Magic Saloon
Do you want to do something really out of the ordinary? Make a trip to the Magic Saloon, where mystery meets comedy and cocktails. There’s a different performer each night, a Reddit user wrote. Tickets cost $41.99 per person.
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“Some specialize in mentalism. Others in close-up illusions,” the company’s website states. “All of them bring something different to the stage. No two shows are the same, but each one leaves you wondering how they pulled it off.”
Find it: 217 Alamo Plaza. San Antonio, TX, 78205