Peculiar to South Texas, "Icehouses" are a result of the marriage of German and Hispanic traditions, echoing early 20th-century existence. With music of your choice, homemade food, and cold beer, these icehouses are an institution, unique to each locality. This would be the place to bring a date to showcase the "family" side of you. You will find people playing dominoes, sizzling delicacies on the grill, and even yearly chili fests.
Early in the 1920's, icehouses were distribution points for the ice blocks used in home iceboxes. It is believed that a milkman once unloaded milk at a local icehouse. Residents realized how convenient it was to pick up their milk and ice at the same time. Soon brewers reckoned that the ice would also serve them well and … the rest is history!
2. All Hot Air?
Hot Air Balloon
So you are the wind beneath her/his wings… why not give your love an additional lift by renting a hot air balloon for the day? Go ahead, be a risk taker! Imagine… a picnic amid the white billowy clouds and champagne to toast your love, all while you hover over a striking panorama below.
Incredible Journeys Balloons, Skyview Balloon Company, and Texas Balloon Safari are some of the companies that will aid and abet you in your attempt to steal your love away from the madding crowd.
Affordable and exciting, this is one date you will be happy went up in "smoke!"
3. Tied Up in Knots
Riverwalk Cruise
Are you on a shoestring budget yet still need to make an impression? You don't have to be a cheap skate to show your sweetie a great time!
You can choose to cruise along the River Walk soaking in the sights of the bejeweled city, or opt for a dinner cruise complete with cocktails and mouth- watering temptations, catered by some of the more famed River Walk restaurants.
Alternatively, you can seat your love upon a carpet of grass at the Aaronson River Theatre in La Villita. The heightened acoustics created by the open skies above and the river between the audience and stage creates a romantic milieu.
4. Class Act
Limo Service
If you are looking for the showstopper, put your foot on the gas and enlist the help of the Limo Lounge. A set of hot wheels and experienced chauffeurs guarantee an unforgettable date. Be it tailored sightseeing tours, concerts, or even sporting events, this transportation company will help steer your love in the right direction.
For those in the fast lane, there is the Eat & Ride service. It allows you to book your reservation and place the order for food en route to your luncheon / dinner.
Romance and your imagination will plan the rest of the evening.
5. The Alamo
The Alamo
Visit the 18th-century mission church where Davy Crockett, Jim Bowi, and 188 others waged their last stand against the Mexican army for Texas independence. The Alamo has become a state symbol. The most famous historical site in Texas, the fully restored mission offers tours, relics of the past, and a gift shop with memorabilia for history enthusiasts.
6. Natural Bridge Caverns
Natural Bridge Caverns
For a tour of the bay, take an evening cruise aboard the Bahia Belle. Dance to live music and sip wine or cocktails while a glorious view of the skyline unfolds under the stars. If you do not mind being a little touristy, cozy up for a carriage ride under the open skies along the waterfront before heading for dinner.
7. Arts Festival in Fall
Fall Arts Festival
The Fall Arts Festival takes off in late September every year and is the perfect time to enjoy the weather and the nature of creativity. There is live music, entertainment, and large varieties of food to choose from as you wander through a colorful explosion and exploration of the city's vitality and talent.
