Ugh! Summer hasn’t officially started, and the sun is already acting out like Regina George hopped up on Kälteen Bars. For those of us who can’t hop a jet to Antartica, it’s tempting to hole up with Netflix until the fever breaks.
As delightful as that may seem on a 100-plus day, there’s only so many Lindsay Lohan movies you can watch in a day. And most of us need an occasional social outlet to keep our mental health in check. Get in, losers. We’re exploring San Antonio. These nine spots will keep you from melting along the way.
Best Spot to Take the Kids — Yanaguana Garden
Parenthood is all about sacrifices. The splashpad at Hemisfair may be a kids-only attraction, but the tables and benches are at least nestled under plenty of shade. And if that isn’t enough to ward off a sunstroke, frosty relief is just a few steps away from Kuenstler Tap Haus, Lick Honest Ice Creams, or Paletería San Antonio.
Chillest Way to View Art — McNay Art Museum
There’s uncommon warmth at The McNay, Texas’ first modern art museum. Part of it the Spanish Colonial Revival mansion that houses much of the collection, but the other half is a curatorial focus on some of the art world’s most vibrant talents. The de la Torre Brothers’ Upward Mobility, currently on display, is a typically playful showcase — using iconography from Aztec lore, Catholicism, and pop culture to create maximalist immersion that is both mirthful and bitingly satirical.
Most Bracing Landscape — Natural Bridge Caverns
With its mammoth mosquitos and punishing sun, the great outdoors is hardly habitable during San Antonio’s summer. Head underground this season if you really want to get inspired by nature. Opt for the Cavern Combo Tour to experience spectacular formations and a jaw-dropping sound and light show for the grand finale.
Most Refreshing Raspas — Amigos Snacks & More
In the sticky thick of summer, raspas can do more harm than good. Flavors like blue coconut may provide a sugar rush, but one needs more oomph on a sweltering day. The solution is electrolytes. This Southeast Side shop’s more savory options include salty lemon and pickle juice to keep hydration levels prime. There’s also a classic Picadilly, should the sweet tooth need a bite.
Smartest Store to Score a Summer Read — Nowhere Bookshop
Sorry, Barnes, and no thank you, Noble. This independent bookseller is still the best place to stock your bedside table. For one, the staff are voracious readers, ready with recommendations ranging from memoirs to YA hits. And it’s more fun to leaf through pages with a glass of rosé in hand. A social spot as much as a store, Nowhere also hosts the No Pressure Book Club, a monthly confab devoted to discussing any and all books.
Splashiest Spot for a Dip — San Pedro Springs Park
Apartment pools can be full of jabronies; hotel pools require an expensive pass, but the San Pedro Springs Park Pool always hits. The present spring-fed giant was erected in the ‘50s, but the waters have been the spot for San Antonio recreation since the 1800s. The relief of taking a soak remains eternal.
Top Place to Pretend It’s Winter — Ice & Golf Center at Northwoods
Part of beating the heat is keeping the right attitude. A little delusion doesn’t hurt either. Ignore the accelerating temps while taking a few spins around this 17,000-square-foot ice rink. Pull a cardigan out of storage and pack a thermos for affect. Brr! Are the leaves falling already?
