Home of Lackland Air Force Base, home of Randolph Air Force Base, 2.5 hours from Laughlin Air Force Base, and a short flight from just about anywhere else, San Antonio was an easy choice for us as we decided on where we wanted to meet up for our first time in almost 3 years!
Hopping off the plane, you understand why San Antonio calls themselves the Military City (they even have it posted in the airport!), there are soldiers reuniting with their families and service members flying in uniform, but there is so much more to this beautiful city that allows you to break free from that military bubble!
WHERE TO STAY
The Magnolia – We both prefer to stay at an Airbnb over a hotel when we travel, it’s much more personal and gives you the opportunity to do a few meals low budget versus dining out or ordering in every single time. This Airbnb had everything we were looking for and more, it’s a charming historic home that has been beautifully renovated and styled for comfort. Equipped with king beds in each room and spa-like showers in the bathrooms adjoining each room (I didn’t know I needed back sprayers until I showered at Magnolia), we both felt like we got the relaxing, kid-free girls getaway we were hoping for at this home.
As if this location could get any better, it was ideal for all of the things on our to-do list! Less than 10 minutes from “The Pearl” and the famous Riverwalk, we never felt like we were scrambling to get out of the house in time to beat the crowds. Not to mention the delivery options to this location gave us the freedom to do a few nights of lazy loungewear and delicious sushi from the comfort of the living room couch.
Other perks this beautiful spot offered – a beautiful front porch with board games galore, cable and Netflix streaming, high-speed internet, free off the street, safe parking, a welcome guide with a list of must-see things in the area, last but not least…the sweetest and most kind hostess that provided us with fresh baked blueberry muffins upon our arrival!
If you’re interested in booking you can use this link and tell Amber it was Jen and Kirst with Wives of the Air Force that sent you!
SPOTS TO SEE
The Pearl
Okay I had heard a lot about The Pearl from Kirst and others who had been to PIT and they were not overselling this place at all. I think we made it back to The Pearl at least one time every day that we were there because the atmosphere is incredible and they also have anything you could ever want in one place when it comes to great food and drinks!
The Riverwalk
We had seen pictures of it before but actually being immersed in it was a whole different experience. We met up with fellow WAF Kelly at La Villita on the Riverwalk and we all felt like we were instantly transported from city life to this beautiful, charming and quaint village. From the gorgeous amphitheater to the beautiful tile work on the stairways leading from the river up to the village, safe to say we were impressed.
The Alamo
You can’t say you’ve visited San Antonio if you haven’t at least stopped by to see this historic site! It’s situated right downtown and easy to access!
SPOTS TO SHOP
La Cantera
If you aren’t from the South, take advantage of this stunning outdoor mall with any shop your little heart could desire. It’s also surrounded by incredible dining (see how top recommendation below on where to dine when you need a break from shopping!)
PLACES TO EAT
Whiskey Cake
A perfect place to grab a bite and delicious cocktail to take a break from shopping at La Cantera, we love their Whiskey Braised Short Rib and of course…the Adult Mac & Cheese!
Southerleigh Fine Food and Brewery
Fun fact about J, she cannot turn down an oyster no matter where she is. Bringing her to Southerleigh was a great big “Welcome to Texas!” with the 6 different oyster options on their menu. The drinks were great, the food was better, and our bellies were very happy by the time we left – which was hours later because it was so easy for us to just chill on their patio!
High Street Wine Co.
This tasting room had it all! Indoor, open air seating, and outdoor seating with a beautiful water fountain feature. We loved munching on their cheese platter during our wine tasting!
Supper
This adorable spot was inside Hotel Emma (which is a NICE hotel in The Pearl District). I didn’t think we would get a table so easily but thankfully we did and had the kindest server! The decor was renovated modern and the food was so stinking good – we were both stuffed after!
Bakery Lorraine
This cutie bakery has a boatload of great reviews for a reason, a great place to grab a coffee and a treat while you’re in between meals at “The Pearl”.
