Savor the Flavor F
rom the tropical beauty of the Rio Grande Valley to the edge of the Hill Country, the South Texas Plains Region is bursting with life. The beauty and hospitality of the Mexican culture are evident in San Antonio and the border cities, and it adds an exotic fl air to a visit here. Several towns off er the border experience without having to have a passport. This area is immersed in history from the Spanish Colonial period to the fi ght for Texas independence, and it retains many landmarks from that time. Museums and historic sites off er insight into the lives of the explorers and set lers who called
this region home. Visitors can follow in the paths of the explorers while enjoying all of today’s modern conveniences. It also is a place of natural beauty off ering habitats to many migrating birds and but erfl ies, as well as providing enjoyment to human travelers. Take time to explore the region’s exciting past and colorful present.
Crowning Glory The jewel in the crown of the
South Texas Plains is the multicul- tural city of San Antonio. This in- credible city on the edge of the Hill Country has plenty to off er and has more than can be experienced in a brief visit, but even a short stay can be fi lled with adventure. The downtown area is a great
place to start a San Antonio experi- ence. The San Antonio River winds through downtown, and the River Walk is one of the most popular draws to the city. Sporting hotels, shops, nightclubs and restaurants,
SIGHTS The Alamo
San Antonio River Walk Goliad Historic Sites World Birding Centers Lower Rio Grande Valley
1 2 3 4 5
McAllen QUINTA MAZATLAN For individual city listings and attractions in the South Texas Plains, see page 225. 88 PHOTOS: RANDALL MAXWELL/TXDOT
the River Walk can be a one-stop destination. The options can be ex- plored on foot, bike (along certain portions) or boat. Step into a river boat for a 35-minute informative cruise along the San Antonio River. Adjacent to the River Walk, visitors
might want to explore La Villita Historic Arts Village, one of San Antonio’s fi rst neighborhoods. It was rescued from
decline in 1939. The mix of architec- tural styles, from palisado to Victo- rian houses, refl ects the cultures that lived in the area. Take a walking tour (a map is available with information about the houses) or explore the gal- leries and shops, featuring works by local and regional artists, along this one-square block. To the east of La Villita is
SOUTH TEXAS PLAINS
Rio Grande Valley BIRDS
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