A Unique Bed & Breakfast In the Heart of San Antonio's Historic District Nearby Places to See and Things to Do
There are many things to do, places to see and places to eat within walking distance or a very short drive from Ruckman Haus, and you will find some of them described below. San Antonio is always changing, though, and you should definitely ask Ron and Prudence for their latest recommendations when you arrive or are ready to go out and explore or eat. No matter what your interests or needs, there is something close to Ruckman Haus that will suit you.
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Places to See
We and our neighborhood are very fortunate to be just a short block from San Pedro Park which is the second oldest park of any kind in the United States. (See if you can find out what the oldest one is; Ron and Prudence will be happy to tell you or confirm your answer when you arrive!). In the park you can find the famous San Pedro Springs, which actually feed the huge wading pool that is open to the public. There are a number of water features associated with the springs as well. The park also contains picnic areas, playing fields, tennis courts and many paths along which guests can stroll. The entire park was completely renovated eight years ago, and you will find it a wonderful place to spend some time. If you would like to know more about the park, here are two sites that will interest you:
The History of San Pedro Park
Monte Vista is arguably the most prominent of the neighborhoods that blossomed during San Antonio's "Gilded Age." This was the period between 1890 and 1930 when the city began to establish itself as more than just an outpost for cattle drives. In fact, Monte Vista was where many of the rich people in the cattle and oil industries decided to make their home during this time. Instead of the usual Spanish-influenced architecture that was prominent at the time, San Antonio architects such as Alfred Giles and J. Reily Gordon (to name a few) went outside of the box and varied the houses. The result is an attractive mix of Queen Anne, Hollywood bungalow, Georgian, Moorish, Arts and Crafts (of which Ruckman Haus is an example) and Victorian era architecture that gives Monte Vista its unique feel. Ruckman Haus is located just one short block outside the official Monte Vista boundary. So if you love old architecture, a walk along our own block and into Monte Vista would be a wonderful way to spend an afternoon. Things to Do At one side of San Pedro Springs Park, right on San Pedro Avenue, is a branch of the San Antonio Public Library, so if you don't find something interesting to read in our own living room, you can undoubtedly find it here. San Pedro Springs Park is also home to the San Pedro Playhouse, which offers theatrical productions year-round. The Playhouse is only one block from Ruckman Haus. Your hosts will be happy to tell you what is playing during your stay and even get tickets for you. Be sure to inquire when you make your reservation, as the playhouse is quite popular and many of the productions sell out quickly. Places to Eat Your hosts have sampled many of the local restaurants since they've lived in San Antonio, and can make many recommendations- depending on your cuisine of choice, of course. San Antonio boast a number of elegant restaurants, suitable for that perfect night on the town, or for entertaining while you are staying with us. Among the most elegant is Bistro Vatel (CAUTION: Website has music!). Another excellent choice is Valentinos di Olmos. You'd expect that San Antonio would have many Spanish and Mexican restaurants, and a short drive from Ruckman Haus will put you in the middle of one of the largest concentrations of them. A couple of them are even just five or six blocks away. Your hosts are particularly fond of La Fonda, Rosario's and Los Barrios. You might not think that San Antonio would be a "burger" town, but if you are looking for some of the best burgers (and fixin's) in the world, your hosts will steer (no pun intended) you to Chris Madrid's, which is quite close to Ruckman Haus. For Italian food, there is a great place, also quite close- Capparelli's. Your hosts have always been particularly fond of the Candlelight Coffee House, about a mile from Ruckman Haus. The Candlelight serves a very eclectic menu of items created by the owners. (Ever thought of Chicken Lasagna?) Each dish is a real treat. But one of the main attractions of the Candlelight is their huge selection of gourmet coffees and teas (here's the place for a half-caf latte with extra foam), their wide selection of wines and their incredible desserts. The Candlelight is also open very late, so it's ideal for a stop after the Playhouse or the movies. For our British guests (and everyone else, for that matter, the Lion and Rose British Pub offers a great place for a casual meal or the best in San Antonio night life!. And if you like coffee, but want a welcome change from you-know-what-national-chain, try our own local version of "Central Perk" (from "Friends")- Olmos Perk- a great neighborhood coffee bar. If you might want a light meal or some entertainment with your coffee, be sure to try Lighthouse Coffee and Cafe. Finally, if you are out for an evening walk, you can head just a short ways up San Pedro to Timo's Coffeehouse- a small, friendly, neighborhood place. Other Recommendations Ron and Prudence will be happy to make other recommendations; just tell them what you are looking for and chances are they have already discovered just the right place. They can even steer you to your next great B&B experience- Das Garten Haus. Das Garten Haus is a traditional, owner-operated B&B in the heart of historic and picturesque Fredericksburg, Texas. You'll love its pretty gardens, delicious breakfasts, and Hill Country hospitality. |
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