Destination: San Antonio, Boerne, Corpus Christi, South Padre Island, Laredo

1. Take in the outdoors at the San Antonio Botanical Gardens’ 38 acres of natural spaces located deep in the heart of the city. And while you’re there, make sure to check out the newest exhibition, OrigamiintheGarden², which features larger-than-life bronze, steel and aluminum sculptures inspired by the art of paper folding. The exhibition will be on view until May 9, 2021.

2. If you’re then looking for a place to rest your head, stay in one of the 338 newly renovated rooms at the Omni La Mansión del Rio, which unveiled its multi-million dollar update this summer. Rooms now feature new beds, furniture and décor that reflects the heritage and beauty of the region, with a modern and elevated aesthetic.

3. As if you needed another reason to visit San Antonio, the city was recently recognized by Condé Nast Traveler’s Readers’ Choice Awards as the No. 5 Best Big Cities in the U.S. It was the only city in Texas to be recognized by the 715,000 readers who took the survey this year.

4. Boerne’s rich history – the city dates back to 1852 – meets hip happenings at the Richter Building. Named after the original Richter’s Garage, where it’s founder worked on the popular Model T a century ago, the iconic building now houses Richter Tavern, Richter Cork and Keg, and Richter Bakhaus. In addition to dining and drinking venues, the Richter Building is also home to retail shops, collectively known as The Shops at 153 Main.

5. In Corpus Christi, social distancing isn’t hard … and actually can be a beautiful thing on the South Texas beach community. The city’s miles of beaches are the best place to spread out under the sun, whether you’re a fan of a Bay beach or a Gulf beach. You can also enjoy a walk at sunrise or sunset.

6. Although the fans are missing evenings at Whataburger Field watching the Corpus Christi Hooks, it’s still possible to enjoy parts of the fun from home. Don’t miss a beat of the season with an in-depth virtual tour of the beautiful stadium that sits right under the famed Harbor Bridge. Get a feeling for what it’s like to stand at home plate and pick your favorite seat for the upcoming season. Also check out the Corpus Christi Hooks Facebook page for other experiences like Backyard Bashes with former players and superfans.

7. Sea turtles are being spotted all over South Padre Island this summer … well, sea turtle sculptures. Artists have created, designed and built the sculptures throughout the city, and the vibrant art has been unveiled in recent weeks and will form the new Sea Turtle Art Trail. Maps are available at www.sopadre.com/art-trials-map.

8. Start your stay in South Padre Island with the most important meal of the day: breakfast at Yummies Bistro. This long-standing local favorite has everything from breakfast sandwiches to fluffy pancakes to dishes with a Mexican flair, such as their Yummie Burrito and their Huevos Colima. If that weren’t enough, their impressive coffee list, filled with a wide variety of unique concoctions, is sure perk you up.

9. The latest places to rest your head in Laredo are the new Tru by Hilton and Home2 Suites by Hilton Laredo Airport. Within walking distance of Unitrade Baseball Stadium and a short drive from Texas A&M University, these hotels offer a combined 150 guest rooms and 2,500+ square feet of event space.

10. If you’re in town the third Saturday of the month, don’t miss Laredo Main Street’s El Centro de Laredo Farmers Market. With seasonal produce, local foods, baked goods, plants, entertainment and so much more, it’s a great way to stay connected to the community and support local businesses and farms.

Photo credit: iStock.com/Richard McMillin