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Staff Picks
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A Magnificent Japanese Tea Garden
May 08, 2018
Originally an abandoned limestone rock quarry, the San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden is a brilliant example of repurposing design. Gorgeous stone columns and walls, brilliantly colored Koi swimming in ponds, waterfalls, beautifully-tended trees, stunning gardens, a pagoda-like pavilion, and much more all await you here. From the moment you step through artist Dionicio Rodriguez’ replication of a Japanese Torii gate, you’ll find yourself in one of the most distinctive places in the city.
The Sunken Garden amphitheater is another feature of the Garden, with a general admittance of 2,700 and standing room of up to 6,000 spectators. The Garden is designated as a Texas Civil Engineering Landmark, a Registered Texas Historic Landmark, and is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Don’t leave without checking out the menu at the Jingu House Café, which is also open for private dining and events after 5:00 p.m. For more information, click here.
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Ranger Creek: San Antonio’s Own “Brewstillery”
April 02, 2018
There are breweries and there are distilleries, but seldom are the two combined, at least not until the past few years. San Antonio’s own Ranger Creek is proud of the fact that they are the first combined brewery and distillery in the area. Focusing on the relationship between beer and whiskey, it is Ranger Creek’s contention that “Whiskey is just beer that’s been distilled. That means every craft beer drinker has a craft whiskey drinker inside of them. We view drinking craft whiskey as the natural next step from drinking craft beer.”
To that end, the company distills their beers into whiskey, and uses their own bourbon barrels to age their beer, frequently using the same equipment for the same processes for each homemade batch. They pride themselves on making quality batches by hand, with the result being unique, barrel-aged beers, such as the renowned and limited draft Russian Imperial Stout, in addition to medal-award-winning Texas Whiskey. For tour information and other details, click here.
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A San Antonio Treasure: The McNay Art Museum
March 05, 2018
Glorious paintings, photographs, sculptures, and more await you at San Antonio’s famed McNay Art Museum. From its inception as the first modern art museum in Texas, the McNay continues to set the standard with 45,000 square feet of exhibits, gardens, a sculpture gallery, a lecture hall, and classrooms for educational programs. The museum boasts over 20,000 works of art, including the art of New Mexico and the Southwest, American Art, Modern European art, the Jeanne and Irving Matthews Collection of Art glass, and the thousands of theatre arts objects that make up the Tobin Collection of Theatre Arts.
The McNay’s collection includes such venerable artist names as Picasso, Matisse, Edward Hopper, and Georgia O’Keefe, along with contemporary art in various mediums by Radcliffe Bailey, Kiki Smith, and Whitfield Lovell. The prints and drawing collections include Van Gogh and Andy Warhol, as well as an enviable collection of Latino prints by such artistic luminaries as Richard Montoya, Carlos Francisco Jackson, and Cesar Martinez. And don’t miss the outdoor sculpture collection exhibited throughout the 23-acre estate, featuring work by Joel Shapiro, Alexander Liberman, and others. For more information, call (210) 824-5368 or click here.
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San Antonio’s “Wings” Won First Best Picture Award
February 06, 2018
Even some cinephiles are unaware that the 1927 Oscar-winning film “Wings” was filmed right here in San Antonio. However, it really shouldn’t come as a surprise, as Texas locations have long been favorites of the film industry. Beginning in 1926, Kelly Field was the location for this romantic/war/action silent movie. Filming lasted for nine months, and hundreds of planes, pilots, and extras were used. After a sneak preview at the Texas Theater (on Houston Street), the film premiered at the Criterion Theater in New York City. But, it wasn’t until the very first Academy Awards ceremony in 1929 that “Wings” won in the categories of “Best Picture” and “Best Engineering Effects.”
Although the film is dated, it remains entertaining watch, and critics continue to praise it for its compelling flying combat scenes. Clara Bow, who starred in the film, accepted the statuette that would later become known as “Oscar.” Many other movies have been filmed here, or partially here. “Pee-Wee’s Big Adventure,’ “Miss Congeniality,” “Toy Soldiers,” “All the Pretty Horses,” “Nadine,” “The Great Waldo Pepper,” “Selena,” the 1972 version of “The Getaway”, and “The Sugarland Express” are just a few we can mention.
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Call of the Wild: The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
January 08, 2018
Did you know that each zebra’s stripes are as unique as fingerprints are to people? Or that rhinos, like pigs, have no sweat glands? Or that ostriches, Damaraland zebras, giraffes, lemurs, Bactrian camels, and two white rhinos named Bertha and Goliath are among many animal species now living only about 30 minutes away from San Antonio at the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch? With its green hills, large oak trees, and creek beds, this 400-acre natural safari park near New Braunfels is as close to the animal’s habitats as the ranch can make it.
The ranch is home to more than 500 animals from 40 different species from all over the planet. Some are endangered, some are exotic and some are native, but all coexist here. Guests can drive around the park grounds and observe the animals without disturbing them. The park is also concerned about shrinking giraffe populations, and tries to raise awareness about this threatened and vulnerable species so they can be preserved for generations to come. For visitor information, call (830) 438-7400, or click here.
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The American Venice: San Antonio’s Own River Walk
December 04, 2017
An oasis winding peacefully through the center of a modern urban setting, the San Antonio River Walk was once described by columnist Ernie Pyle as “The American Venice.” It attracts millions of visitors annually, and offers lush scenery mixed generously with historic attractions and multi-cultural events, in addition to some of the city’s finest food and drink, art, and entertainment. From its early days as a gathering place for Native Americans and Spanish settlers along the San Antonio River, the area has been, and still is, considered the heart and soul of the city.
Today, there are a myriad of ways to explore the River Walk. River barge cruises and kayaks are available, with pedestrian access to the Pearl Brewery complex and the San Antonio Museum of Art. Or, go via bicycle using B-Cycle, the city’s bike share program, with more than 50 stations in the downtown area. Need a little help? Ask an Ambassador Amigo – you can spot them by their straw hats and brightly-colored shirts, and they are invaluable at providing assistance. Also, there are various historical plaques and markers scattered throughout the River Walk for help you learn more and keep you on the right track.
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The Eagle Has Landed – At the San Antonio Zoo
November 07, 2017
This year it is bald eagles, not turkeys, which are the focus of the folks at the San Antonio Zoo. After temporary stays at several zoos around the country, a 25-year-old American bald eagle named Haley found a new home here in March of this year. The Zoo staff and guests are pleased to have Haley, who is now recovered from a 1988 gunshot wound. Deemed non-releasable due to injuries from the wound that left her unable to fly, this special girl has been assigned two main caretakers.
She is evidently settled in and has made herself at home near the Hixon and Beastro Birdhouses amongst the East African Crowned Cranes and the European White Storks. Haley is the first resident bald eagle the zoo has had in almost 10 years, and so far she has no problem posing for the many photos snapped by the zoo’s visitors. There are plans for a male bald eagle named Chinook to be brought in as another resident eagle, so perhaps Haley will have a companion soon. For more information about Haley, zoo hours and additional details, click here.
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The American Cowboy’s Legacy Continues at the Briscoe Western Art Museum
October 02, 2017
The iconic man of the west who sat tall in the saddle as he roamed the countryside became a folk hero throughout the entire country, but the real American cowboy originated in Texas. Cattle thrived in Texas, and, by the end of the Civil War, the state was home to over five million head. During the mid-to-late 1800s, cowboys were needed for the great cattle drives that took place on the open range. They were the heroes of their time, and have since been immortalized in hundreds of beloved western books and classic movies.
With its emphasis on the preservation of the art, culture, and history of the American West, the Briscoe Western Art Museum has forged a link between the past and the present. The museum offers exhibits of art and artifacts from over five centuries, beginning with the Spanish Conquest. Additionally, they provide educational programs, including distinguished lecturers, and public events that honor vibrant cultural traditions and to preserve the connections of shared heritage. To learn more about the Briscoe Western Art Museum, call (210) 299-4499, or click here.
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Four Ways You Can Help Victims of Hurricane Harvey
September 05, 2017
The devastating effects of Hurricane Harvey are being felt across the region, the state, the nation, and the world. Right now, we are all one, as we seek to do anything we can to help. Here are options: First, the South Texas Blood and Tissue Bank is experiencing shortages they describe as “critical,” and need donations. As a result, they have extended the hours at all of their San Antonio donor locations. To donate, or for more information, call (210) 731-5590 or click here. Next, the Texas Diaper Bank in San Antonio needs diapers and wipes. You can drop them off, or mail them to:5415 Bandera Road, Suite 504, San Antonio, Tex., 78238.
The San Antonio Food Bank is accepting donations for folks in the city, the region, and for those impacted by Hurricane Harvey. They need food, volunteers, and money. Call the Food Bank helpline at (210) 337-FOOD, or visit. Finally, the San Antonio Humane Society has not forgotten our animal friends who have been displaced, or are still at risk. They have delivered supplies and are making room for evacuated animals in their shelter. Donations are being accepted by the Harvey’s Heroes Emergency Fund. To donate, or for more information, click here.
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August is Groovy: A Psychedelic Summer and Bat Flights
August 07, 2017
The McNay Art Museum is proud to present “Groovy: A Psychedelic Summer” through August 27th. Focusing on color, new technology, and patterns that came into vogue during the late 1960s and early 1970s, the exhibit showcases the early years of the contemporary art movement. Featured artists include Robert Gordy, Edna Andrade, and Joe Tilson in the Frost Octagon, along with Nam June Paik. The exhibit also includes “Global Groove,” John Godfrey’s iconic 1973 video, recognized as one of the first major works of video art. For more information, call (210) 824-5368.
Join us at Bracken Cave on August 13th and September 3rd for the Bracken Bat Flight. One of the most magnificent displays of nature, this phenomenon features millions of bats belonging to the world’s largest colony emerging from their cave and swooping and soaring through the skies in their noctural hunt for insects. Packages are available for the Natural Bridge Caverns Tour and the bat flight from Bracken Cave. Hours will vary depending on desired package. For more information, call (210) 651-6101.
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Celebrating Our Nation's History
July 01, 2017
This Independence Day, the air will be filled with the smell of hot dogs and hamburgers sizzling on grills, blaring horns and crashing cymbals will accompany bands marching to the sounds of Sousa, and a dazzling array of fireworks will illuminate night skies nationwide as we come together to celebrate our most American holiday. Guests of the Menger Hotel are invited to come early and stay for the holiday to enjoy the fun and family-friendly events and activities below.
San Antonio’s annual 4th of July celebration will be held from 8:00 a.m. until 9:30 p.m. at Woodlawn Lake Park. This free event includes a parade, a 1K and 5K fun run, and live music before the evening’s star-spangled fireworks spectacular. A must-see event for all visitors to the city is Independence Day at the Alamo. From 9:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. on July 4th, the Alamo will present folk music performances, musket demonstrations, a reading of the Declaration of Independence, and other patriotic activities to inspire historical reflection. Finally, don’t leave without a stroll on the city’s famous River Walk, and save the dates of July 28th – July 30th for the Summer Artisan River Walk Show.
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Give Dad the Gift of Flight
June 10, 2017
This year, forget the ties, the after-shave, and the campy boxers, and give Dad something he'll remember for years to come. Indulge his playful side, his love of adventure, and his competitive spirit with the exciting gift of indoor skydiving. Dad can experience the sensation of outdoor skydiving without the risks, as the thrill of free falling becomes a safe reality. A vertical wind tunnel simulates genuine conditions as skydivers “fly” on a smooth column of air; landing securely and easily.
Located less than 30 minutes from the Menger Hotel, iFly San Antonio is one of many places now offering indoor skydiving. Termed “bodyflight,” it is rapidly gaining momentum with traditional skydivers and other sports enthusiasts around the world. Although it packs a wallop, it’s safe enough for the youngsters, and something the entire family can enjoy together. We suggest booking a family getaway, and visiting additional local attractions. For information on reservations and special getaway packages, call (210) 223-4361, or visit: https://www.mengerhotel.com/san-antonio-hotel-deals.
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Celebrate Craft Brew Week with Local Brews
May 01, 2017
Every May, the culture and community of craft brews and brewers are celebrated with American Craft Beer Week. Celebrated this year from May 15 through May 21, this has become the largest national effort with a focus American craft beer and its booming market. With the ever-growing popularity of craft beer, it’s no wonder that more indie brewers are jumping into the arena. The result is a veritable of explosion of breweries across the country, and the inevitable ranking of their various brews by such notables as Food and Wine and TimeOut Magazine. Below are two top-class breweries located right here in San Antonio.
The Alamo Beer Company and the Freetail Brewing Company were selected as the #8 and the #17 brewers on the list of TimeOut Magazine's "Best Craft Beer Breweries in America.” Freetail Brewing has a lineup of 16 creative classics, and Alamo is famed for “The Golden Ale,” considered one of the best examples of its kind in the country. Want to check out these brewers? Book a craft brew “staycation” with us! For reservations, call (210) 223-4361.
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Fiesta San Antonio
April 03, 2017
The enticing smell of sizzling fajitas, bands marching with military precision, extravagantly decorated floats, colorful confetti bursting from cascarones, and a mix of music from mariachi to jazz make up only a small part of Fiesta San Antonio. 2017 is the 126th anniversary of the annual celebration and the eleven days from April 20-30 promise to be a non-stop party throughout the city. Events include the Fiesta Teen Queen Coronation, a hat contest, the Fiesta de los Reyes at Market Square, the Fiesta Masquerade Party, the Fiesta Mission 10K Run, and Piñatas in the Barrio. But even these and dozens of other events, it’s safe to say that the Fiesta Flambeau Parade is one of the largest, most impressive, and most anticipated events every year. Known as “America’s Greatest Night Parade,” the Fiesta Flambeau Parade is the largest illuminated parade on the world, and boasts over 700,000 viewers annually. The parade provides a breathtaking finishing touch to our city’s celebration. The Menger Hotel’s location offers convenient access to the Fiesta Flambeau Parade and all of the city’s events for Fiesta San Antonio. Call us (210) 223-4361 for reservations and more information.
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Shamrocking It in San Antonio
March 06, 2017
Join us from March 17th-19th for the Murphy’s St. Patrick’s Day River Parade & Festival. The festivities begin at La Villita (418 Villita Street) when, with the help of some green dye, the River Walk will be transformed into the River Shannon. The parade and the Artisan River Walk Show will follow, along with live concerts and other festival events at the Arneson River Theatre. It’s going to be one epic party weekend, so scope out the dates and times below.
March 17th at 1:00 p.m. and March 18th at 2:00 p.m.
Dyeing of the River Walk
March 17th – 19th, 12:00 – 9:00 p.m.
The St. Patrick's Day Artisan River Walk Show, with booths along the River Walk extension near the Shops at Rivercenter
March 18th, 4:00 – 6:00 p.m.
Murphy's River Parade, featuring 14 decorated floats filled with bagpipes and drummers, Irish step dancers, and music.
March 17th – March 19th, 12:00 – 9:00 p.m.
Concerts at the Arneson River Theater, with entertainment provided by the Kelly Singers, Celtic Comfort, the Inishfree Irish Dancers, the Ledbetters, and O'Malarkey.
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An Exciting Mix of Cocktails and Games
January 05, 2017
This month, the City of San Antonio is hosting an interesting combination of events that cater to both gamers and cocktail enthusiasts.
Through Sunday, January 15, the sixth annual San Antonio Cocktail Conference will once again mix together outstanding bartenders and cocktail aficionados, and the result is a dynamic blast. Named “the future of cocktails” by Paste Magazine, the festival is a celebration of craft cocktails. Guided tastings, educational seminars, and cocktail parties are on the agenda, and the conference will continue its tradition of donating 100 percent of the profits to children’s charities. For details, visit: https://www.sanantoniococktailconference.com/
From January 27-January 29, gamers of all levels will descend on the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center for PAX South, a festival devoted exclusively to the rapidly-growing gaming community and its culture. PAX South will feature a game industry expo hall, sneak peeks at unreleased software, latest gen-hardware, and free play areas, along with keynote speakers and nerdcore music with gamer-inspired concerts. For the awesome details, visit http://south.paxsite.com/
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'Twas the Night Before Christmas: Showing This Month at the Magik Children's Theatre
December 02, 2016
Treat the family to a holiday adventure with a trip to the Magik Children’s Theatre, and their live stage performance of ‘Twas the Night Before Christmas. Located in historic Hemisfair Park, the theatre is presenting playwright Ken Ludwig’s charming story of an unhappy elf who is about to ruin Christmas by selling Santa’s naughty and nice lists - only a small mouse and a plucky young girl can save the day! This delightful holiday tribute is showing through December 30. Performance times vary, but morning, afternoon and evening shows are all available, along with sensory-friendly performances.
HemisFair Park is less than a 10-minute drive from the Menger, and there is a fee for parking onsite. Depending on weather conditions and times of day, a walk to the park could be a fun activity for the kids, or catch the Alamo Trolley for a fun ride with a direct stop at Hemisfair Park. For more details about performance times and tickets, call (210) 227-2751, or visit: magiktheatre.org.
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Your Easiest Thanksgiving Ever: Park & Play at the Menger Hotel
November 07, 2016
This Thanksgiving, save yourself from driving all over the city, and from wasting your holiday cash on parking. Check in with the Menger’s ‘Park & Play’ special, and you’ll be within walking distance of San Antonio’s most popular destinations, while enjoying valet parking with full in/out access.
Sleep late on Thanksgiving morning and still enjoy a fabulous breakfast with our Colonial Dining Room’s Brunch Buffet from 11:00 am - 2:20 pm, and return for our famous Thanksgiving dinner from 5:30 - 8:30 pm. Thanksgiving eats at the Colonial are a favorite with the locals, so be sure to make reservations for both meals.
Friday evening features one of the city’s most famous events: the annual Ford Holiday River Parade. Tickets are required, so act fast to guarantee a fine meal and a comfortable ringside seat for parade-viewing by purchasing a package. Many restaurants along the parade route offer them, and you can get yours by visiting here: thesanantonioriverwalk.com/events/holiday-parade-dinner-packages.
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This Year, Pick Your Pumpkins with a Purpose
October 03, 2016
It’s October, and pumpkin-picking is fun, easy, and good for multiple good causes. This year, why not purchase your future Jack-O’-Lantern from a group that gives back to the community, and benefits the growers themselves, by visiting the Alamo Heights United Methodist Church’s 15-year-old pumpkin patch.
In this family-friendly environment, you’ll find pumpkins grown in New Mexico on a farm owned and operated exclusively by the Navaho Nation. A portion of the proceeds from all pumpkin sales goes to Habitat for Humanity, and the remainder is divided equally between the four charitable groups whose volunteers actually work the patch. Any leftover pumpkins are donated to food banks or other non-profit organizations.
This is an ideal way to create family memories - you can have your pumpkin, carve it, and feel good about it. Located at 825 E. Basse Rd., the AHUMC pumpkin patch runs October 13-31, and is open seven days a week from 9:00 AM-7:00 PM.
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Celebrate National Hispanic Heritage Month at La Villita
September 15, 2016
National Hispanic Heritage Month (September 15-October 15) is a great time to explore La Villita. Situated on the banks of the San Antonio River only minutes away from the Menger Hotel, it began in the 1800s and was populated primarily by Mexicans, Germans, and Americans.
Soon, the village was a thriving home to tradesmen and professionals, and the population grew. However, by the middle of the 1920s, La Villita was likened to “a slum” by the architect who was hired for the restoration of the town. It was during this revitalization that, in a spirit of Pan-American unity, the plazas, streets, and houses were renamed in honor of heroes such as Simon Bolivar and Benito.
Since then, it has been placed in the National Register of Historic Places and undergone another redesign and renovation in 1981. The La Villita of today is a charming historical setting for a variety of art galleries, excellent restaurants, and singular shopping opportunities.
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Spa Time in the Heart of the Alamo
August 15, 2016
Welcome - we’re happy you chose to stay with us here at the Menger Hotel. You’re right next door to the Alamo, and nearby are many of the city’s exciting attractions. We know you’re eager to begin your vacation, and we’re glad you want to see the local sites, sample our cuisine, and shop for authentic western wear, but let us persuade you to figure in a little extra time for relaxing.
The Menger’s Alamo Plaza Spa offers the ultimate in pampering for the weary traveler, whether it’s a 60-minute massage, a half-day or even a full day of treatments. Choose from Swedish massages, herbal scrubs, sea algae wraps, and many more. The half-day and full-day treatments even include a healthy lunch in the Colonial Dining Room.
So, be our guest– visit the Alamo, eat at a genuine cantina, and pick up a pair of hand-made western boots. Just be sure to carve out some spa time too!
Visit their website or call 210-223-5772 for more information.
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Why Not Make Your Next Sweet Treat Epic?
July 18, 2016
San Antonio summers call for more than the pat on the back you get from a slushy, so follow the locals’ lead and cool off with a sweet paleta treat from Paleteria San Antonio. Created by a husband-and-wife team who whip up cold, creamy goodness using real ingredient and responsible practices, their pops come in flavors that change regularly and with the seasons, so you never know what's on the menu. Their HemisFair location at 510 South Alamo Street is within walking distance of the Menger, making a delicious artisanal paleta an easy stopping point on your sightseeing itinerary. Plus, who can beat this brand promise: "a product that incites laughter and inspires people to come together time and time again."
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