If you’re within the thick of parenting children — particularly little ones — it may be troublesome to seek out the time (or inclination!) to have fun Valentine’s Day. Whereas sure, I’ll concede that it’s as over-commercialized because it’s ever been (I counted 3 heart-laden aisles at Goal the opposite day!), as a Mother I’ll take any excuse to remind my household how a lot I like them with candy little presents and time spent collectively.
Valentine’s Day falls on a Friday this yr, however San Antonio is the proper place to have fun love — and a few temperate climate — in the course of the month of February. Right here’s an inventory of 10 enjoyable methods to have fun this candy vacation as a household.
1. Get Wild at San Antonio Zoo
Hailed the Valentine’s Capital of the World, San Antonio Zoo is eager to reside as much as its crown once more this yr! They’ve a variety of occasions for lovebirds, singles, and households, to make this Valentine’s Day actually memorable.
Whereas a few of these occasions are for 21+ (however may make for an awesome date evening possibility) — you’ll be able to benefit from the zoo’s February environment as a household all month! Hearts and flowers are throughout. Youngsters may also love receiving a personalised kiss-o-gram from one in all their featured animals — all donations go in direction of the maintenance of the zoo.
With the nostalgic Kiddie Park and the Brackenridge Zoo Practice on web site, the San Antonio Zoo is the proper place to spend Valentine’s Day as a household.
2. See Unbelievable Orchids on the Botanical Backyard
Head to the San Antonio Botanical Backyard this love month and catch Orchid Colorburst! Solely on show from 1 February – 31 March, there are a whole bunch of blooming orchids, colourful and distinctive installations, and uncommon species within the Lucile Halsell Conservatory.
That is an unbelievable spectacle for lovers of gardening and flowers — but it surely’s additionally very family-friendly, with instructional courses, guided excursions, and a market with native distributors providing orchids and different vegetation. The backyard’s present store may have orchid-themed presents and souvenirs solely accessible in the course of the exhibit — the proper place to choose up a final minute present, or a reminder of your day trip.
3. Go to the McNay Museum and Sculpture Grounds
In the event you haven’t been to the McNay Museum — or haven’t been for a very long time — now could be the proper time! With a strong everlasting assortment and consistently revolving displays: highlights this February embrace a rainbow popular culture show of American Tradition from a black perspective; a highlight of native San Antonio space faculty kids’s responses to Ian Dawson’s sculpture, Henri and Henrietta; and a sprawling outside sculpture by Austin-based artist Orly Genger comprised of recycled lobster rope — there’s loads to see.
Burn off their further power exterior within the sprawling, 25-acre sculpture grounds, that are open each day (the museum is closed on Mondays). Make a household day of it with lunch at close by household favourite EZ’s, then seize some cupcakes at Hen Bakery — suitably festooned with pink sprinkles and pink hearts for the season.
4. Construct Love on the LEGO Retailer
Head to the LEGO Retailer as a household this February — there are two areas in San Antonio: North Star Mall and La Cantera! Try the brand new kits on show of their home windows, and construct your individual Botanical Coronary heart to take house with you. It makes for the proper Valentine’s Day memento.
If your loved ones loves constructing LEGO kits collectively, there are a number of love-themed choices that may make a enjoyable February venture! From the LOVE sculpture to the botanical assortment of untamed flowers, pink roses, and extra, children will love getting concerned.
5. Have a BBQ Household Feast
You’re spoiled for alternative in the case of BBQ in San Antonio, but it surely makes an awesome alternative of restaurant in the case of feeding children (even choosy eaters). From brisket to mac and cheese, corn, sausage, and coleslaw, all of the kid-friendly favorites are lined. Worst case situation, they are going to replenish on bread!
Benefit from the temperate climate this February and luxuriate in some good BBQ on the patio. My favourite BBQ restaurant is Two Brothers BBQ Market — the meats are strong, the sauce is flavorful, and the edges are scrumptious. They’ve loads of exterior seating on their oak-shaded patio, and a play yard to maintain the children entertained.
Downtown, Pinkertons is much-loved and boasts a menu of BBQ classics, sandwiches, sides and desserts; whereas in Helotes you’ll discover informal patio eating at B-Daddy’s Barbecue with unbelievable slow-smoked meats, native beers, and household meal packages. Helotes is a good spot to discover with your loved ones one weekend — park and discover on foot, seize espresso and baked items in Outdated City, and frozen custard at Meadows.
6. Cuddle Up at a Film
Head to your closest movie show and watch a brand new launch as a household this February! The Dogman Film and Paddington in Peru may have children laughing whereas Captain America will engross teenagers — and for those who’re fortunate you’ll be capable of catch the Santikos reshowing of the Harry Potter films. Don’t overlook popcorn and sweet for the total expertise!
7. Benefit from the Environment of the Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is romantic at any time of yr! However take the chance to take a ship trip this February, earlier than the crowds descend for Fiesta and the warmth ramps up in summer time.
Uncover the fascinating historical past of the Riverwalk with Go Rio. Their educated and fascinating tour guides lead you thru the town’s tradition, historical past, structure, and timeless appeal — providing you with a view of the Alamo Metropolis that’s distinctive to the water.
Excursions final round 35 minutes, and price $13.50 per particular person for native residents, $15.50 for guests, and $9.50 for kids below 5.
8. Saddle Up for the Rodeo
Head to the Rodeo on a household date this February! From having fun with hen on a stick and funnel truffles on the fairground, to purchasing the entire household western boots, or catching a rustic music star after the extremely Rodeo riders — this can be a date with a uniquely San Antonio taste.
Try our lowdown of what’s occurring on the Rodeo this yr, right here.
9. See Piggie & Gerald on the Magik Theatre
In case your children love the Elephant & Piggie books by Mo Willems, they are going to love the Magik Theatre’s manufacturing “We Are in a Play!” this spring!
Catch a present on weekends (and choose weekdays) from 1 February to 31 March. There are a number of present instances accessible, and a few performances are sensory pleasant, or ASL interpreted. An elephant named Gerald and a pig named Piggie are finest buddies, however Gerald worries that one thing may go flawed that may finish their friendship. Piggie is just not apprehensive in any respect. She’s even happier and extra excited than standard, as a result of she and Gerald have been invited to a celebration hosted by the Squirrelles, three singing squirrels who like to have a very good time. And so begins a day when something is feasible. With catchy tunes, full of life dances, and loads of laughs, this present guarantees to be an entertaining expertise. It’s excellent for younger audiences 3+.
10. Have a Tea Social gathering on the Bread Field
In the event you’ve by no means been to Artisan Alley favourite The Bread Field earlier than, then February is the proper time to attempt it! Although they’re open for lunch each day (the quiche with salad and hen salad croissant are my private favorites, and each lunch plate comes with iced tea and a chocolate chip cookie!) — you’ll need e book upfront (on-line or by cellphone) for his or her spectacular afternoon tea. Take the entire household or simply collect the women, costume up, and make an event of it.
Bask in delicate truffles, freshly baked pastries, recent fruits, and scrumptious treats, all washed down with tea served in china cups and saucers.
I hope you’re feeling impressed to get out with your loved ones to take pleasure in our metropolis of affection this February!
