The city took shape with simple structures, but soon began building in stone – both around squares in the new city center and south along the San Antonio River.

Oak-shaded strolls along King William's streets are the best ways to appreciate the stately architecture (a visit to the Steves Homestead Museum will give you an inside look), and side trips to flanking Southtown, a thriving area of restaurants and galleries –especially alive during First Friday celebrations – will provide colorful contrasts.

San Fernando Cathedral (1755)
Texas hero James Bowie married Ursula de Veramendi in its sanctuary, and Mexican General Santa Anna used the church as a lookout. Today, San Fernando still serves the city and citizens, now as the cathedral of the Diocese of San Antonio. Built in 1738, its history includes both religious and secular duties.
 

	Alamo The first mission established in San Antonio, the Alamo (San Antonio de Valero) served as a way station between east Texas and Mexico. Already 100 years old when it fell in the notorious Battle of the Alamo, you'll find in the heart of the city the often-photographed church façade, as well as relics in the Long Barrack Museum.
	Aztec on the River (1926) The Aztec On The River is set in an historic 1926 movie palace which has been meticulously restored, complete with a Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ. Modern enhancements have been added to create an incredible experience, including a multi-million dollar special effects show in the Grand Lobby, plus shopping and dining options.
	The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower  The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower has the stature of being, the most beautiful church in San Antonio. The church is filled with significant works of fine art such as hand carved Stations of the Cross, a hand carved retable above the main altar, marble altars and beautiful stained glass.
	Casa Navarro State Historic Site  Casa Navarro is nestled in downtown San Antonio. The half-acre site is the restored home of Texas patriot José Antonio Navarro (1795 - 1871). Today, visitors can tour Navarro's adobe home furnished with period antiques, read copies of his writing, and discuss questions of history with informed interpreters.
	Charline McCombs Empire Theatre  The Empire has been used as a venue for vaudeville, silent and talking motion pictures, concerts and live theatre. The Charline McCombs Empire Theatre's intimate and charming atmosphere lends itself to first-rate theatre, contemporary concerts, comedians and performing arts events.
	Fort Sam Houston (1845) Established in 1845, the fort moved to its present location in 1876. The post is known as the birthplace of military aviation and the site of the first flight of a military aircraft in 1910 and is now known as the home of Army medicine.
	Historic Sunset Station at St. Paul Square  Sunset Station, nestled in the historic St. Paul district, offers a unique experience in downtown San Antonio. Partake in a self paced walking tour to marvel at turn of the century architecture; catch concerts ranging from all genres of music; and dine at Aldacos Fine Mexican Cuisine or Ruths Chris Steak House.
	Majestic Theatre  The ornate Majestic Theatre is one of the few remaining vintage vaudeville movie palaces. The theater is home to the San Antonio Symphony and the AT&T Broadway Series.
	Mission Concepcion Arguably the most beautiful mission, Concepcion looks much like it did almost three centuries ago.
	Mission Espada Mission Espada contains the best-preserved segment of the acequia (irrigation system) that was used to bring water to the fields.
	Mission San Jose Established in 1720, it became known as the "Queen of the Missions" for its grand design of stone walls, bastions and magnificent church.
	Mission San Juan Mission San Juan's fertile farmlands allowed it to be self-sustainable; its chapel and bell tower are still in use today.
	Southwest School of Arts (1851) On an historic campus alongside San Antonio's River Walk, the Southwest School of Art is one of the nation’s largest community-based art schools, offering classes to established artists as well as to beginning and intermediate students of all ages.
	Spanish Governor's Palace (1749) A national historic landmark, labeled "the most beautiful building in San Antonio" by the National Geographic Society, it once housed the officials of the Spanish Province of Texas. Over the entrance is the original keystone which contains the carved, double-headed eagle of the Hapsburg coat-of-arms and the inscription, in Spanish, "finished in 1749."
	Tower of the Americas For more than 35 years, the 750-foot-tall Tower of the Americas has offered residents and tourists of San Antonio, Texas, the most breathtaking view of the Alamo City - visitors dine at the Tower's revolving restaurant or enjoy the scenery from the observation deck.

For more information about historical attractions in San Antonio, go to History and Heritage.