San Antonio is a historic and culturally rich city in south-central Texas. Known for the Alamo, its scenic River Walk, and a strong Hispanic heritage, it’s one of the fastest-growing cities in the United States.
Overview
- Population: ~1.5 million (over 2.6 million in the metro area)
- Nicknames: Alamo City, Military City USA
- Founded: 1718 as a Spanish mission and colonial outpost
- Geography: Located in south-central Texas near the Balcones Escarpment
Landmarks and Attractions
- The Alamo – historic 1836 battle site and UNESCO World Heritage site
- San Antonio River Walk – network of canals, shops, and restaurants
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
- Tower of the Americas
- San Fernando Cathedral and Market Square
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld San Antonio
Economy
San Antonio’s diverse economy includes:
- Military and defense – Joint Base San Antonio is one of the largest U.S. military hubs
- Healthcare and biosciences
- Tourism and hospitality
- Finance and cybersecurity
Culture and Lifestyle
- Strong Mexican-American influence in language, food, festivals, and architecture
- Hosts Fiesta San Antonio, a 10-day cultural celebration every spring
- Known for authentic Tex-Mex cuisine and mariachi music
- Family-friendly and community-oriented atmosphere
Education and Research
- University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA)
- Texas A&M University–San Antonio
- Leading medical research and military education facilities
Transportation
- San Antonio International Airport (SAT)
- VIA Metropolitan Transit (bus system)
- Walkable downtown and extensive highways
Fun Facts
- The Alamo is visited by over 2 million people each year
- San Antonio is one of the oldest municipalities in Texas
- The River Walk was originally created to prevent downtown flooding