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25 hidden gems that show the real San Antonio

By San Antonio Current Staff on Sat, Aug 10, 2024 at 7:32 am

Even if you've lived in San Antonio your whole life, there's always so much to explore in our beloved city.

Whether it's a cave once used to store and smuggle booze, a password-required speakeasy, an iconic family-owned downtown retail store or the serene and secluded spot that's the headwaters of the San Antonio River, there are plenty of tucked-away marvels worth exploring to make you proud to live here. They truly embody the wonderful, eclectic and quirky spirit of the Alamo City.

Here's a look at some of those hidden gems to check out right now. They'll make you feel like a tourist on your home turf.

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Travis E. Poling

Havana Bar
1015 Navarro St, (210) 222-2008, bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-havana/eat-drink/lounge
Located in the basement of Hotel Havana, the Havana Bar is a hideaway for hotel guests and locals in the know. Dim lighting and overstuffed couches provide a intimate setting for cocktails after a show at the nearby Tobin Center.

Instagram / @insanejester

Japanese Tea Garden
3853 N St Mary's St., sanantonio.gov
The historic Japanese Tea Garden was built in a former quarry and features elaborate pathways and carefully cultivated landscaping, stone bridges and waterways filled with koi. The garden is also starting to host unforgettable concerts in its breathtaking setting.

Instagram / @resendez96

McNutt Sculpture Garden
210 W Market St, (210) 299-4499, briscoemuseum.org
Not too far from the River Walk, the hidden garden is actually part of the Briscoe Western Art Museum, and features bronze western-themed sculptures throughout. The lush enclave is open to the public, whether or not you're visiting the museum.

Instagram / @joseph_rdz_

Phil Hardberger Park
13203 Blanco Road, (210) 492-7472, philhardbergerpark.org
Divided into East and West sections, Phil Hardberger park has over 7 miles of trails for bikers and pedestrians alike. You can also leave the ground behind and traverse the park's skywalk, or cross over Wurzbach Parkway on foot using the park's land bridge.

Courtesy Photo / Port San Antonio

San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology
3331 General Hudnell Drive, (210) 338-0439, samsat.org
Even if you're not familiar with this hidden gem museum located at Tech Port, there's a good chance your kids are since it's hosted visits from 185,000 students since opening. SAMSAT AREA 21, the museum's showcase of 21st century tech and innovation, is located inside the Boeing Center and offers self-guided visits.