Exploring San Antonio on a short stay

San Antonio, Texas may surprise many visitors in terms of diversity and acceptance of outsiders. Tejas means friends or allies in Native American and that clearly shows upon arrival.

San Antonio is a big city with a small-town vibe and has the seventh largest population in the United States and over 60 percent are Latin. It is also refried to as “Military City USA” and obviously home to the tattoo judging from the local's body artwork.

The San Antonio River Walk is the number one tourist attraction in Texas. Visitors can find maps at TheSanAntonionRiverWalk.com to assist in exploring the over three-mile walk along the river. Boat cruises are another option to see the sights while sitting down on a guided tour

Looking for a gay-friendly tour guide to aid in your journey while in San Antonio? Out and proud owner of MOV Tours Melvin Obregon brings the energy and knowledge to accommodate tourists who want to learn about this “lake of blue.” Soak up the sun with a walking tour or book a virtual tour to rest those weary feet.

The Alamo, an 18th-century Spanish mission, is the number one attraction in Texas and is still in the process of growing bigger. This preserved museum is free to enter and may surprise many with its small size.

Previous public signage was often posted in English, Spanish and German in the past because it was so commonly spoken.

This mishmash of cultures is reflected in the art scene and the Blue Star Art Complex is certainly the place to be with a collective of artists in various spaces at 1414 South Alamo Street.

Hank Lee's San Angel Folk Art Gallery features a number of artists all under the same shop and is open seven days a week from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. The name originates from a cultural district in Mexico City and one will feel like they are transported there upon entering this eye-popping establishment.

Contemporary at Blue Star houses more than 20 exhibitions and makes a cool place to unwind while viewing the art, Brick at Blue Star is home to an event space that can be rented studio sessions if desired.

For photography fun head to Hopscotch San Antonio, 711 Navarro Street, suite 100, with 15 instillations created by artists inside an immersive space. Standouts include one exhibit called Gaze which places a spotlight on the Human Rights Campaign and a Rainbow Cave constructed by Basia Goszczynska from over 40,000 plastic bags to highlight and encourage more recycling. Don't skip the unique gift shop or craft cocktail bar before you leave!

Liberal use of sunscreen and drinking plenty of water is suggested before seeking rainbows out on the LGBTQ+ side of town. The Main Avenue strip leads to East Evergreen Street where four rainbow crosswalks are kept pristine by volunteers.

Dance bars and drinking establishments to dive into include the massive Bonham Exchange and Pegasus, among others.

Other excursions to seek out are San Antonio Missions National Historic Park,

SeaWorld San Antonio, San Antonio Zoo, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas if time allows.

Pace yourself in this festive and friendly city as there is plenty to see and do.

For more ideas visit VisitSanAntonio.com and book with Obregon at MOVTours.com to have a gay ol' time!