San Antonio & The Texas Riviera

Day 1

Today, you will be transferred to the airport for your flight to San Antonio, TX. On arrival, a motorcoach will transport you to the Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk for a three-night stay. Enjoy easy access to the eclectic bistros and bars lining the popular San Antonio River Walk. Dinner is on your own this evening, but you may wish to take advantage of the 5:30 Kickback featuring free hot food and cold beverages.

Day 2

Begin the day with a tour of the San Antonio Missions. This guided tour will provide you an insider look at what life was like in the 18th century, and how these important religious sites have earned their status in the world. Visit the San Antonio de Valero, and Mission San Jose. The size of the complex bears withness to San Jose's reputation as the "Queen of the Missions" and became the showplace of the southwest. Free time for lunch on your own and shopping at El Mercado. This Market Square is the largest Mexican Market in the US. El Mercado brings the spice of Mexico to San Antonio. There are over 25 different shops and vendors where you can do some of your best bargain hunting. Items range from glassware, leather goods, vanilla and other colorful treasures. The afternoon features a scenic cruise along the Riverwalk. This is an unforgettable way to experience the world-famous San Antonio River Walk. The engaging tour is both informative and humorous. This evening, enjoy delicious Tex-Mex Cuisine. Known as the home of the Ultimate Fajita and the 60oz Margarita, Cafe Ole offers multilevel seating, scenic views of the river, and quaint indoor seating. Strolling Mariachis are common accompaniments and add that extra touch, providing the perfect festive atmosphere!

Day 3

This morning, visit the Buckhorn Saloon & Texas Ranger Museum. From the exotic animal collection and The Texas Ranger Museum to the saloon, and cafe, to the gift shop and private event space - it's no wonder that The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum has become one of the biggest attractions in downtown San Antonio. Plus, visit the Texas Ranger Museum which honors the incredible history of the world's most famous law enforcement agency. Enjoy the afternoon exploring the Riverwalk area. Located on the world-famous River Walk in downtown San Antonio is the Rivercenter which features more than 100 retailers including 14 restaurants, IMAX, AMC Theaters, and a 1,000 - room Marriott Hotel. Rivercenter is the premier entertainment, dining, and shopping destination. Discover a beautiful environment with the perfect blend of downtown energy and old-world charm. Tonight's dinner is in a classroom, complete with a cooking demonstration. You will learn how to make the perfect Enchilada paired with the perfect Margaritas. This two-hour class include cooking instruction where you learn to make Enchilada Verdes (chicken enchilada with tangy green tomatillo sauce) served with rice, borracho beans, handmade flour or corn tortillas, and a non-alcoholic beverage. The event ends with a dessert of fabulous tres leches cake, and a souvenir recipe card.

Day 4

Travel to South Padre Island, 34 miles of beautiful white sand and clear emerald waters. South Padre Island is one of the world's most exquisite barrier island. Before checking in to your hotel, stop by the Visitors Center for a warm welcome. Then check into your hotel for a three-night stay. Your hotel is located just minutes from the beach. Dinner is included this evening at the Sea Ranch Restaurant, a South Padre Island "Must Do". They have been serving South Padre Island, Texas visitors for 35 years and have become the island's premier dining restaurant.

Day 5

Following breakfast, the morning and afternoon is yours. Spend time at the beach or visit the local attractions. Enjoy your free time exploring this Texas paradise. This evening, enjoy a Sunset Dolphin Cruise. South Texas is a year-round home to several large pods of dolphins. Share the thrill of meeting bottle-nose and spinner dolphins in the wild and experience the unique bond and kinship they inspire in mankind. After the cruise, dinner is included at a local restaurant.

Day 6

After breakfast this morning, visit the South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center, the Rio Grande Valley's premier destination for birdwatching. Your naturalist will take you on an informative walk at the bayfront boradwalks with extra time to explore the nature center, a five-story tower with spectacular views of Laguna Madre, beaches & dunes of South Padre Island, the Gulf of Mexico, & the South Padre Island Skyline. But they don't just talk about the birds on the Island; they also have fabulous fish, dolphin, plants and other animals to talk about too! Then visit the world-renowned Sea Turtle Inc. Founded in 1977 by Ila Loetscher, better known as "The Turtle Lady", the organization has dedicated itself to the rescue, rehabilitation and release of sea turtles. Sea Turtle Inc. is instrumental in bringing back the Kemp's Ridley sea turtle from the brink of extinction. Enjoy your afternoon at the hotel and enjoy the beach. Dinner is on your own this evening.

Day 7

After breakfast, depart for the airport and your return flight home. , a Susquehanna Trailways motorcoach will be waiting to transfer you home!

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All time other than pickup times are approximate. Schdule subject to change!!!

B=Breakfast, D=Dinner