Towering 750 ft. above HemisFair Park is the Tower of the Americas, the distinctive centerpiece of San Antonio's skyline. Built in 1968 for the World's Fair, the tower underwent multi-million-dollar renovations in 2004 and 2006, and today remains a popular attraction. A glass elevator provides a thrilling ride to spectacular views from an observation deck 59 stories high—for those who don't fear heights. I love to go at night to see the lights of the city below. The tower has a ground-level gift shop and café, but visitors and romantic locals alike seem to enjoy best the revolving Chart House restaurant and cocktail lounge. Some people have a rule about never eating in a restaurant that revolves, thinking they're just for tourists and the food is never that good. The Chart House, part of the Landry's chain, will change a few minds about all that. We enjoy the fresh fish options, like the macadamia-crusted mahi. My husband likes the clam chowder best, and our son loves the hot chocolate lava cake dessert. Locals often come here for special anniversary dinners, and our family enjoys it as part of an annual holiday tradition. We like the views of the holiday lights that line the River Walk; from so high above, they look like twinkling snakes of light wending through downtown. While at The Tower of the Americas, families with teenagers and older kids should be sure to catch the thrilling "Skies Over Texas" 4-D film ride on the ground level. Also, don’t miss the chance for a nice stroll through HemisFair Park, which features playgrounds, parks, waterfalls, fountains, and museums. Plan on about an hour to visit the observation deck, Skies Over Texas ride, gift shop, and café—longer if you add drinks or dinner above the clouds.
San Antonio
Travel Guide
San Antonio› Restaurant
Tower of the Americas
600 Tower of the Americas Way
Our Rating
Neighborhood
Central/Downtown/HemisFair Park
Hours
Sun–Thurs 10am–10pm, Fri–Sat 10am–11pm
Transportation
Streetcar: Yellow line to S. Alamo and Nueva Sts.
Phone
210/223-3101
Prices
$10.95 adults, $9.95 seniors and military, $8.95 children, free for children 3 and under
Web site
Tower of the Americas
Map
600 Tower of the Americas Way San AntonioNote: This information was accurate when it was published, but can change without notice. Please be sure to confirm all rates and details directly with the companies in question before planning your trip.