San Antonio may be the second biggest city in Texas, but as far as entertainment is concerned, it’s all about the River Walk. You’ll want to be based as close to it as possible for ease of ticking off all the key attractions, including The Alamo, The Pearl, The Grotto, the San Antonio Museum of Art, and many of the best restaurants and bars in town. In fact, most weekenders don’t leave the 15-mile loop that flows through five miles of downtown. While hotels right by the water charge top dollar, you’ll save money by booking a stay a block or two inland (but of course, the savings means forfeiting the views).

Texas has always had a reputation for heat, and trust us, you’ll want to avoid San Antonio during the height of summer (if you can). Recent year’s temperatures have broken records, with many consecutive triple-digit days repeatedly striking. The hottest months are between June and August, although May and September can also be tough to stomach. Unlike Dallas or Houston, where you can spend a lot of time indoors in the comfort of strong air conditioning, many of the Alamo City’s top attractions are al fresco. Stick to the October to April window of comfort if you want to sample San Antonio’s finest.

Did you know Southern Texas is the birthplace of Tex-Mex food, dating back to the late 1800s? San Antonio is widely regarded as a state leader in the cuisine, and here you’ll find incredible fajitas, burritos, nachos, and tacos peddled at every corner. Best of all: The portions are Texas-sized. In addition, thanks to having the largest majority-Hispanic city in the United States (64% of San Antonio’s population is Hispanic), authentic Mexican eateries are also in abundance. Tip: visit in April for Fiesta San Antonio, a colorful multi-day celebration of the city’s history and traditions for a mega feast.

You won’t need a car for short trips centered around the famed River Walk, which is all pedestrian-friendly. Consider renting a bike or jumping on a boat tour while you’re here, too. Outside the main drag, a car is essential. Yes, public transport exists, but it’s not efficient here (or anywhere in Texas, sadly). Travelers coming from San Antonio International Airport (SAT) can pick up a vehicle from one of the on-site rental car agencies or hail a rideshare before the 10-mile drive into town. Places of interest including the San Antonio Missions National Park, Brackenridge Park, the San Antonio Zoo, and SeaWorld are all best reached by car.

In some Texas cities like nearby Austin, flip-flops and shorts are fine all day every day. But in San Antonio, folks tend to put a little more effort into their evening endeavors. When the weather’s not knocking you sideways, opt for closed-toe shoes and smarter attire when dining out in the evening, especially in some of The Pearl’s trendier restaurants. Ranch style is especially welcome in the honky tonks, if you’re feeling like sporting some boots, jeans, and a cowboy hat. And during festivals like Fiesta, it’s all in color. Bright, bold, and dazzling. Do as the locals do and make a little effort when hitting the town.