Situated in the southwestern corner of the Texas Triangle, San Antonio is the only major city in Texas that existed before the state won its independence from Mexico. Its Spanish influences are still evident here, from street names to local dishes to the most famous of its five missions — and one of the state’s marquee attractions — The Alamo.

But you don’t need to look to the past to appreciate San Antonio. The city is also home to one of the most famous river walks in the country, as well as a slew of hiking and cycling trails that crisscross the region. And in recent years, city planners have revitalized many of San Antonio’s forgotten neighborhoods, turning old warehouses and factories into bustling markets, museums, and galleries.

The bars and restaurants along San Antonio’s River Walk always have an energetic buzz about them during those hot summer nights, making a weekly rental a popular choice during the sunny weather. However, if you don’t cope too well with high temperatures, it’s worth visiting a little later in the year when things are cooler. Fall is the best season to enjoy everything the city has to offer, with hiking trails and other outdoor activities more accessible in October and November. You also stand a far better chance of grabbing a riverside table during this time of year.

El Mercado

To see San Antonio at its best, pay a visit to the city’s market square, which is often referred to by its Spanish name, El Mercado. Here, you’ll find over 100 local restaurants and shops covering a sprawling outdoor plaza. Not only is this place home to handmade Mexican crafts, there’s also authentic food with live music to help wash it down when the hot evenings arrive.

Brackenridge Park

A locals’ favorite, this scenic park is home to a stretch of the San Antonio River and is a great place to take a relaxing walk during your stay. If you head here early in the morning before the heat takes a hold, you’re bound to come across a runner or two stretching their legs. In the summer evenings, the park becomes a popular picnic spot for families and groups of friends.

The River Walk

This iconic 15-mile waterway is one of America’s largest urban ecosystems, and the beating heart of San Antonio. Highlights include a four-story shopping complex, outdoor performance theatre, eight-mile paddling trail, and a separate channel that leads you to the San Antonio Museum of Art. Visit in April during San Antonio’s Fiesta and you’ll see the waterway lit up with colorful floats for the River Parade.