Calling all history buffs! One of the most historic neighborhoods in Texas, the King William Historic District in San Antonio, deserves a spot on your bucket list. Complete with 25 blocks of ornate mansions featuring several different Old World architectural styles, this unique destination has been preserved and restored to the pristine condition that put it on the map as a great place to live in the first place.
If you're a fan of Old World architecture, it will be love at first sight when you visit the King William Historic District in San Antonio.
This residential neighborhood was established in the mid-1800s by German immigrants, and it quickly evolved into one of the most affluent districts in the Alamo City.
Its population began to decline in the early 1900s, but by about 1950, preservation efforts were launched and the area once again became a coveted place to call home.
History and architecture buffs can stroll up and down the neighborhood's 25 blocks and admire the Greek revival, Victorian, and Italianate mansions, imagining what life was like for the wealthy merchants who once called them home.
Many of the homes now serve as museums, and a few are even open to the public for tours.
The entire district is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, and a number of the homes are Recorded Texas Historic Landmarks.
Be sure to stop and read the plaques outside of some of the homes - you'll learn lots of fascinating information about the area's rich history.
Lush greenery lines the roadsides throughout the neighborhood, making for a picture-perfect scene - especially when combined with the lavish homes in the background.
The lawns are perfectly manicured, just as they were back when the district was first established over 150 years ago.
Also in the King William Historic District is King William Park, featuring lush palm trees and other vegetation as well as a gazebo available for rent.
The neighborhood is just about a mile south of the iconic San Antonio River Walk - or roughly 25 minutes by foot. Perhaps you'll throw on a pair of sturdy walking shoes and enjoy a leisurely stroll by the water until it takes you to the district.
If you're a fan of the arts, you have to check out The Contemporary at Blue Star while you're in the area.
This artist collaborative features rotating exhibits on a variety of topics, and they promise to inspire, educate, and move.
Stop by the SoFlo Market every second Saturday from October through May to shop everything from urban art to handmade crafts to delicious baked goods.
What a perfect way to end a full day of exploring one of Texas' most historic neighborhoods.
Visit the City of San Antonio website or the King William Association website for more information about the King William Historic District.
Have you ever visited the King William Historic District, one of the most historic neighborhoods in Texas? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments! And if you're in search of more things to do in San Antonio, check out Airbnb experiences for a whole host of activities ranging from ghost tours to kayaking the River Walk.
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