San Antonio is a vibrant city full of culture, history, and activity. From delicious food to exciting nightlife, there is always something to do in this bustling city.
If you’re considering moving to San Antonio, read on to learn more about what the city has to offer.
Schools in San Antonio
The largest university in the area is the University of Texas at San Antonio, with multiple campuses for students pursuing education in a variety of disciplines at undergraduate and graduate levels. Several other great colleges are also in the area:
Texas A&M-San Antonio (foreground) and the VIDA San Antonio community.
- Texas A&M University — San Antonio. Just like the University of Texas at San Antonio, this public university is part of the Texas A&M University System. The San Antonio campus offers students a variety of cutting-edge degree programs in forward-thinking fields like cybersecurity.
- Trinity University. This private liberal arts university is consistently ranked among the top regional universities in the country. Trinity offers a rigorous academic program and a vibrant campus community.
- St. Mary’s University. A private Catholic university offering a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. St. Mary’s is known by many for its strong emphasis on social justice and community engagement.
- Our Lady of the Lake University. Another private Catholic university, Our Lady of the Lake is known for hosting a diverse student body and centering a commitment to social justice, while also offering a wide range of quality degree programs in fields like education, business, and social work.
San Antonio also has excellent K-12 schools:
From pre-k through high school, there are many public and private schools in San Antonio for students learning the basics or pursuing a focused area of study.
- San Antonio’s Southwest Independent School District (ISD). With a focus on providing a high-quality education that prepares students for any path, whether college or career, Southwest ISD has risen as one of the top school systems in the city. Southwest ISD is known for its dedicated teachers, supportive staff, and innovative programs that engage students to help them reach their full potential. From award-winning fine arts programs to championship-winning athletic teams, Southwest ISD offers a well-rounded education that meets students where they are as individuals to prepare them for future success.
- Health Careers High School. This high school offers a rigorous academic program with a focus on health science, preparing students for careers in the medical field.
- Northside Independent School District. This is one of the largest and most highly rated school districts in the entire state of Texas.
- BASIS San Antonio. This innovative charter school offers a challenging academic program with a focus on science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) that includes not just the technology and science itself, but also preparing students for practical future careers in these fields.
- Alamo Heights Independent School District. This school district is known for high academic standards and strong bonds with the local community, providing students with a well-rounded education and opportunities for success.
- Great Hearts Northern Oaks. This charter school offers a classical liberal arts education with a particular focus on developing critical thinking and communication skills in students.
- Saint Mary’s Hall. This prestigious private school is located in San Antonio.
San Antonio Events and Culture
Festival de Cascarones, a Fiesta event at Texas A&M-San Antonio and VIDA San Antonio.
San Antonio is one of our nation’s oldest cities and is famous for its rich cultural and historical heritage. Today, it is also famous for numerous high-energy events and festivals that celebrate the city’s past, present, and cultural diversity.
Some of the most popular events include:
- Fiesta San Antonio. The city’s annual 10-day celebration of culture, music, and food features parades, live music, food and drink, and cultural events, celebrating the city’s rich history and diverse communities.
- Día de los Muertos. Celebrated annually in November, this colorful and festive tradition honors the memories of deceased loved ones. In San Antonio, Día de los Muertos festivities include altars on display, parades, art exhibits, live music, and dance performances.
- San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. Held each February, this event lasts nearly three weeks and is one of the largest livestock shows and rodeos in the world. Even if livestock isn’t your thing, it features live music, carnival rides, food, and, of course, exciting rodeo events.
- Texas Folklife Festival. This annual event, held in June, celebrates the diverse cultural traditions of Texas through food, music, dance, various art and craft demonstrations, and workshops. Visitors can sample traditional dishes from around the state, watch live performances of folk music and art, and learn about the unique customs and traditions that have contributed to the area’s distinct culture.
- Mission Reach Flotilla Festival. This free, fun event, usually held in October, celebrates the San Antonio River’s Mission Reach Restoration Project. It features a parade of kayaks and other watercraft along the river, as well as live music, food and drink, and family-friendly activities.
The city is also home to several museums and art galleries for year-round cultural enrichment. Highlights include the San Antonio Museum of Art and the McNay Art Museum, both of which display artwork from around the world.
Recreation
Madla Greenway nature trail at VIDA San Antonio
San Antonio offers ample opportunities for outdoor recreation. The city is home to several large and well-equipped parks, including the popular San Antonio Riverwalk, which features walking paths, bike trails, and riverboat rides. Located in VIDA, the Madla Greenway offers a direct trail to the Texas A&M University-San Antonio campus through trails and sidewalks. The trail material is accessible and soft, making it suitable for running. Made of recycled asphalt, it is a more sustainable material that supports water flow along the creek bed.
The city also boasts multiple golf courses, including the prestigious TPC San Antonio and The Republic Golf Club. The latter is an 18-hole championship course located just a few miles southeast of downtown San Antonio, making it easily accessible for residents of the Southside area. It is known for its well-manicured fairways and greens, challenging layout, and allowing players to take in stunning views of the Texas Hill Country while they tee off. The Art Schaupeter-designed course incorporates rolling terrain, mature oak trees, and several challenging water hazards. It also has a full-service clubhouse with a pro shop, restaurant, and bar, as well as a driving range, putting green, and chipping area.
Food and Nightlife
San Antonio and the adjacent Texas Hill Country are known throughout the world for delicious food, particularly Tex-Mex cuisine and that special, smoky Texas barbecue. For foodies living in San Antonio, the city has the distinction of having had numerous restaurants featured on the Food Network’s iconic “Diners, Drive-ins, and Dives” program.
There is also has a thriving nightlife scene, with plenty of bars and nightclubs that offer live music and entertainment, including hot watering holes like:
- The Squeezebox. This laid-back bar and music venue is a favorite among locals for its friendly atmosphere and great live music. The venue features a mix of local and national acts and keeps it moving on off nights by hosting events like open mic nights and karaoke.
- Lowcountry. This stylish bar and restaurant serves up craft cocktails and southern-inspired cuisine in an atmosphere that is high-end while staying cozy and inviting. The space comes to life with thoughtful features like exposed brick walls, leather seating, and a beautiful outdoor patio.
- Sam’s Burger Joint. A burger place, yes, but Sam’s is also a legendary venue that has been a fixture in San Antonio’s vibrant music scene for over 30 years. Sam’s brings in a mix of local and national acts and has a full menu of burgers and other classic American eats.
- The Mix. If a low-key dive bar vibe is more your style, The Mix is known for its eclectic combination of live music, selection of craft beers, and cheap drink specials. The space is comfortable and unpretentious, with all the expected amenities like an outdoor patio and pool table.
Healthcare in San Antonio
San Antonio is home to numerous well-regarded hospitals and medical centers.
This includes the esteemed University Health System, which offers everything from an experienced family medicine practice to emergency services to meet your health needs.
Another great option for those in need of care is Baptist Medical Center, part of the Baptist Health System. It is located just a few miles north of Southside San Antonio, making it easily accessible to residents.
Both systems offer a comprehensive range of medical services, including emergency care, women’s health, pediatrics, and more for residents living in San Antonio.
Moving to San Antonio
Tower of the Americas in downtown San Antonio, Texas
If you’re considering moving to San Antonio, in addition to the awesome attractions outlined above, you’ll be pleased to know that the city has a low cost of living compared to other major cities in the United States. It also boasts a strong, forward-looking economy with current job growth in various sectors, including healthcare, education, and technology.
Southside San Antonio is a growing community with a rich cultural heritage, close-knit community charm, and world-class services. The area is also home to the “Best New Neighborhood in San Antonio,” named by MYSA.com in 2023. This award-winning VIDA San Antonio residential neighborhood features high-quality homes built by some of the best builders in Texas. VIDA is a thriving community that offers access to local amenities, cultural opportunities, and outdoor recreation for anyone ready to make the move. We encourage you to consider VIDA in Southside San Antonio as your future home, and we invite you to take the first step to learn more.