The Spanish Governor's Palace, a well-preserved adobe from the Spanish Texas period, stands as a testament to the 18th-century colonial heritage in Downtown San Antonio. Designated as a National Historic Landmark and acclaimed as the most beautiful building in the city, it offers visitors a glimpse into the aristocratic lifestyle of that era. Originally constructed in the early 18th century, the palace served as the residence of local presidio captains and Spanish governors, playing a pivotal role in protecting the region's missions and growing Spanish colony. Today, the city-owned museum invites the public to explore its captivating history and architectural splendor.

The Main Plaza Conservancy takes pride in nurturing the rich history and culture of the Main Plaza, situated at the heart of San Antonio. Rooted in Spanish urban planning traditions, this plaza, adorned with the iconic San Fernando de Bexar Church, has been a lively hub for the community since its establishment in 1730. Over the centuries, it served as a central gathering place for various events, from religious festivities and political gatherings to bustling markets and parades. As the city evolved, streetcars drew people away from the plaza, but the Main Plaza Conservancy remains dedicated to keeping its spirit alive, engaging the community, and cherishing its timeless legacy.

Mission Concepción, founded in 1716, stands as a testament to the rich history of San Antonio. This iconic stone church, dedicated in 1755, remains remarkably well-preserved, showcasing original frescoes and evoking the vibrant past of Spanish Franciscan friars. As the oldest unrestored stone church in America, Mission Concepción is a living heritage, offering visitors a captivating journey back in time to the days of Spanish colonization in Texas.

Stepping into Mission Concepción is like stepping back in time to 1755 when this historic stone church was dedicated. As the oldest unrestored stone church in America, it proudly displays its original architecture and original frescoes, offering a glimpse into its past as one of the six Spanish missions established to safeguard against French encroachment from Louisiana. Despite the passage of centuries, Mission Concepción stands strong, a testament to its enduring legacy and historical significance.

Mission Concepción, dedicated in 1755, stands as a captivating symbol of the past, preserving its original charm and architectural grandeur. As the oldest unrestored stone church in America, it carries the rich history of Spanish Franciscan friars and serves as a reminder of its vital role in safeguarding Spanish territory from French influence. With its original frescoes still visible, this timeless mission offers a glimpse into the enduring heritage of San Antonio.

Photograph of the San Antonio River Walk during Christmas time. People sit at café tables lining the sidewalk outside of Casa Rio as a tour boat coasts down the river to their right. Lights have been strung from the trees above the river walk and on building structures to either side.

Photograph of the San Antonio River Walk during Christmas time. Lights have been strung from the trees and building structures on either side of the river. People sit at café tables lining the sidewalk outside of Casa Rio to the left.

Photograph of the San Antonio River Walk during Christmas time. People sit at café tables lining the sidewalk outside of Casa Rio to the left of the river. Lights have been strung from the trees and building structures above them.

Photograph of the San Antonio River Walk Bridge during Christmas time. The stone faced bridge crosses the river in the bottom portion of the photograph, decorated with a single string of lights. Lights have also been strung from trees to the left of the bridge. The Torch of Friendship statue is visible among buildings in the background.

Photograph of Randy Mallory at the Main Plaza in San Antonio, Texas. Mallory is sitting on a ledge on the right side of the photograph, facing to the left of the camera with a drink in his right hand. He is resting his left hand on a camera attached to a tripod next to him. His left elbow is resting on the camera bag suspended around his shoulder. The Saga building can be seen in the background from behind a tree and a fountain.

Photograph of an accordion player performing on stage at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music.

Photograph of an accordion player performing on stage at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas, while wearing a black suit. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is a close up of the musician.

Photograph of an accordion player smiling towards the audience while performing on a darkened stage at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is a close up of the musician.

Photograph of an accordion player performing on stage at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas, while wearing a black suit. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is taken from an upwards angle towards the musician.

Photograph of an accordion player smiling towards the audience while performing on a darkened stage at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is a close up of the musician.

Photograph of attendees enjoying a festival while dancing around the dance floor at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music.

Photograph of a band performing with an accordion, guitars, and singers at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music.

Photograph of a three person band performing on stage with an accordion and two guitars at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is taken from a slight angle.

Photograph of a trio of musicians consisting of an accordion player, guitarist, and singer, performing on a darkened stage at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is centered on the guitarist and taken at an upward angle.

Photograph of a couple dancing together at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is taken from behind the older gentleman as his dance partner looks at the camera. Other festival attendees are visible in the background.

Photograph of a couple dancing together at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is taken from beside the couple as they dance around other couples.

Photograph of couples dancing together at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is taken at a slight angle.

Photograph of attendees enjoying a festival while dancing around the dance floor at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music.

Photograph of a guitar player performing on stage at the Tejano Conjunto Festival in San Antonio, Texas. The festival is the first and longest Conjunto festival in the country that showcases all of the best in Conjunto music. The photo is taken from an upwards angle.