The Riverwalk

Start at the Blue Star Brewery, and walk along a quiet section of the riverwalk. You can also begin a bike route of the Mission Trail near here. Notice the drinking fountains for dogs. Enjoy the backs of the large, distinctive historic homes of the King William district.

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The McNay!

I feel happy after every visit. The gorgeous grounds, the beautiful artwork, the fascinating house and courtyard garden. Plus, I think every single time we're there we see a bride, or a girl in her quinceanera dress getting photos taken by the fountain.

Highlights include the outdoor sculptures and water features, and inside are stunning or subtle paintings, sculpture and other creations.

There are high-quality, well-presented traveling exhibits.

While you're there, be sure to check out the downstairs restrooms in the new wing. You'll see why when you get there.

More info here.

The Guenther House

The Guenther House has a very pleasant restaurant with good food and service, but the place and ambience get the most visiting points. Set in the home of the original owners of the Pioneer Flour Mill, the architectural details are what make the restored house a work of art. There's a dragon motif on the sconces and chandeliers in one conservatory-like room with tables. Look for pleasant leafy, or a sheaf of wheat stained glass. Gifts include many that are related to baking or flour. Take your pager and shop, or wander around looking at all the old touches.

Friesenhaus - New Braunfels

A lively place, with German music, clothing, food and dancing.

First Friday Art Walks

I really enjoyed this event. The wares displayed are much different than those one gets used to seeing in department or big box stores. This would obviously be because someone made them with their hands, instead of the items being made by machines. Anything that gets people out and mixing and mingling can be good and this occasion does that.

(Pictured above: The Friendly Spot, Tiendita Sprinkles, and Jonathan Adrian Pena in front of one of his pieces.)

Read more here.

UIW Fiesta Fashion Show

This was very good. Well-presented and with a significant amount of valuable design work featured. There were eight or so fashion students presenting their senior projects. Mostly women's dresses, but one created menswear, and one did a collection for pre-teen girls. It's all student-run -- they put together the music, hire models and promote the event themselves.

A friend and I got tickets to the show only. There is also a fundraiser lunch.