One of Texas's most colorful cities, San Antonio is also rich in history, as it was for a long time the largest city in Texas and the natural crossroads of American and Mexican cultures. Not only is it famous as the home of The Alamo, it's also America's capital for Tejano music and the host of many Hispanic-flavored street festivals and fiestas. Downtown's Riverwalk is a leafy, meandering area with excellent restaurants and shopping. Southtown, with its Latin shops and galleries, celebrates its art scene with the monthly First Friday, a kind of extended block party. The surrounding region is Texas Hill Country, one of the most picturesque areas in the state. No wonder San Antonio is a popular destination for even Texan travelers.

San Antonio has a larger LGBT population than its demure scene would lead you to believe. Although not as rambunctious as Houston or Dallas, the gay community is headquartered in the bustling Monte Vista gayborhood, with some bars also in the Northcentral district. Monte Vista is filled with graceful historic mansions, some of which have been converted into gay B&Bs, as is the case with the historic King William's neighborhood. In addition, you'll find some gay cowboy bars in town like in other Southwest cities—be sure to pack your spurs.