La Villita Historic Arts Village
418 Villita St., San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio’s historic roots are preserved at La Villita Historic Arts Village, the city's first neighborhood. This protected enclave has a history dating back nearly 300 years, with a collection of heritage buildings that today house boutiques, restaurants, and art galleries which collectively play host to more than 200 annual events.
No trip to San Antonio would be complete without a stroll along the cobbled streets of historic La Villita. Luckily, most sightseeing tours stop here, including San Antonio River Walk cruises, hop-on hop-off bus tours, and guided Segway tours of historic downtown. La Villita's proximity to the River Walk makes it a natural extension for guided or independent explorations of the area—just leave time to shop at neighborhood boutiques and dine at local restaurants.
La Villita is a popular stop among foodies, shopping enthusiasts, and history buffs.
Wear comfortable shoes suitable for walking over uneven cobbled streets.
Shops and restaurants in La Villita accept cash and major credit cards.
You can get to La Villita on foot from the River Walk at the Arneson River Theatre. Parking can be scarce in the area, so if you're already downtown, it's a good idea to walk, take the bus, or hail a taxi.
Plan to visit the neighborhood when its shops and restaurants are open. Restaurant hours vary, but most shops are open daily, with shorter hours on Sundays. Check the calendar of events to see what might be going on during your stay.
La Villita is home to numerous heritage buildings. Keep an eye out for Cos House, built before 1835 and one of the oldest buildings in the neighborhood, as well as the Little Church of La Villita, which operates one of the city’s longest-running food kitchens.
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