Sure, some people might find the Tower of the Americas a bit too touristy, but here are six less common opinions about it that you might find interesting.
Not a fan of typical tourist spots? Me neither! I can’t stand those overhyped chain restaurants that everyone insists you must try. TripAdvisor? Nah, not my go-to for finding fun things to do. That’s why I put together this guide on San Antonio Riverwalk Restaurants – had to save you from the horror of bad food at the popular joints.
Now, I’m not usually into touristy stuff, but even I couldn’t resist the allure of the Tower of The Americas. Yeah, I know it’s the epitome of tourist attractions in SA, right up there with Alamo visits and margaritas on the Riverwalk. But hey, sometimes you just go with the flow.
So, picture this: I’m at Hemisfair, enjoying my coffee and breakfast taco at CommonWealth, one of my fave spots. By the way, that coffee shop rocks – check it out if you’re in San Antonio. The Tower of the Americas catches my eye, and I think, “Why not? It’s not too pricey, and I love seeing cities from up high. Maybe I’ll be a highrise dweller in the future, who knows?”
No lines on a weekday morning, so I stroll up to the ticket counter, grab a single ticket, and hop on the elevator. Three minutes later, I’m 750 feet in the air, soaking in a breathtaking view of San Antonio. Kept imagining how much my 3-year-old would love it – maybe even the 1-year-old too.
As I enjoyed my quick Tower of The Americas visit, I couldn’t help but reflect on the usual opinions people have about these touristy experiences and how mine totally differed after checking out this San Antonio landmark.
6 Unpopular Opinions About The Tower Of The Americas in San Antonio
1. It’s Actually One Of The Best Things To Do In San Antonio
Okay, listen up… I get it, everyone’s all about hitting the adorable and Insta-worthy historic Pearl district, or diving into the excitement of theme parks like SeaWorld or Six Flags Fiesta Texas. And, of course, there’s the temptation to unwind in the fantastic resorts and spas in San Antonio, not to mention strolling along the Riverwalk, exploring restaurants, and snagging some goodies from the shops.
Now, let me hit you with something different. If you’re a first-timer in San Antonio (check out how to make the most of one perfect day in San Antonio!), taking a trip up to the tippy-top of the Tower of the Americas is a seriously cool thing to do. Doesn’t matter if you’re rolling solo, with family, or enjoying the view with your significant other—this should be on your San Antonio to-do list.
2 It’s Incredibly Kid-Friendly
Always on the lookout for fun things to do in San Antonio with kids, and let me tell you, the Tower of the Americas is GREAT for kids!
It’s a quick activity, so don’t expect it to fill your entire day. But if you’re already hanging out at Hemisfair, planning to hit the park, splash pads, and maybe grab a bite at one of the Hemisfair restaurants, you could easily fit in a visit to the observation deck of the Tower of the Americas.
The elevator ride is short (about one minute or so), and the top deck is entirely indoors. That means you can head up there even on windy or chilly days. And if you decide to step outside to the outer ring of the observation deck, no worries – it’s fully secure with a tall rail and a sturdy clear barrier that you can see through.
Quick note: For the littlest ones who can’t see over the rail, you might need to hold them up. But hey, kids aged 3 and under get in for FREE!
Now, what makes the Tower of the Americas extra cool is its spot in San Antonio – right at Hemisfair! This centrally located park is a gem for bringing kids for some FREE activities in SA. The splash pad is epic, the pizza is some of the best in the city, and there’s even a nearby wine bar where parents can grab a glass of vino while keeping an eye on the kids having a blast at the park.
So, a trip to the top of the tower fits right in for a family-friendly day in SA.
3. The Food Is Actually Pretty Good
Chart House, the restaurant perched at the top of the tower, won’t be earning a spot on our list of the best restaurants in San Antonio anytime soon. But, surprise surprise, the food is actually quite good!
In my exploration, I swung by Bar 601, located just above the Chart House restaurant. The best part? It’s absolutely free to visit. You can swing by for a snack and a drink, all while soaking in the same breathtaking view that the folks at the restaurant pay a pretty penny for.
I must say, I was pleasantly surprised by the food quality. It might not be the most unforgettable culinary experience, but it’s solid. Picture the kind of food you’d get at an upscale wedding catered by a top-notch company or the fare you’d enjoy at a fine restaurant aboard a cruise ship. It’s good! Maybe not the best you’ve ever had, but definitely good.
4. It’s Very Cheap
When you start checking out the prices of tickets and parking at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, or the expenses of attractions in big cities like NYC or Chicago, it’s pretty crazy how much it can set you back to get a family of 4 to the top of one of those towering skyscrapers.
But here’s the kicker – little ol’ San Antonio’s tallest tower only costs $16.50 for adults and $12 for kids. And guess what? It’s absolutely FREE for children 3 & under. So, if you’re a single parent, like me, visiting with two toddlers, the whole adventure is only $16.50 for my family. That’s less than I spend at a drive-thru lunch stop!
Now, here’s another nifty money-saving tip at The Tower of the Americas: check out the happy hour at Bar 601. It runs from 4:30-7 pm every Monday-Friday, and the prices are really good. The best part? You don’t have to pay to go up the elevator to the top!
So, instead of shelling out $16.50 for a ticket to the observation deck, you can use that money to grab a couple of cocktails at the bar while enjoying a view of downtown San Antonio from 750 feet up in the sky. Talk about a win-win!
Read Also: Perfect Romantic Weekend in San Antonio | Hotels, Restaurants
5. The 70s Vibe Is Kind Of Fun And Retro
The tower was built in 1968, so it’s a bit dated. Now, some folks might say the 70s appearance is a tad behind the times, but here’s my unpopular opinion: those 70s vibes are downright retro and fun!
Stepping inside, it feels like you’re taking a little time travel jaunt back to when the tower was the HOT stuff. Fun fact: it held the title of the tallest observation tower in the country until the Strat was built in Vegas. For about three glorious decades, San Antonio was THE place to be for a trip to the top of a tower, enjoying an unobstructed view of the city.
Sure, there have been updates over the years, but the overall vibe still exudes a bit of those classic 70s hotel feels. It’s a whole thing, and you just have to embrace it and soak it in. Who says the past can’t be a blast?
6. You Won’t Regret Going
In wrapping up my unpopular opinions about the Tower of the Americas, here’s the final one for you: you’re going to be glad you did it. Sure, some folks might throw around words like overhyped or not worth the money, but personally, I believe a trip to the top of the Tower of the Americas is incredibly worth it!
Now, if it were to cost $50-60 dollars, maybe my tune would change, but at the current price point, it’s a fun, quick, and memorable thing to do in San Antonio.
FAQs
Why did they build the Tower of the Americas?
The Tower of the Americas was built as the centerpiece of the 1968 World’s Fair, also known as HemisFair ’68, held in San Antonio, Texas. The purpose was to symbolize the city‘s progress and modernity while providing visitors with a remarkable observation deck to enjoy panoramic views of the surrounding area.
Who owns Tower of the Americas?
As of my last knowledge update in January 2022, the Tower of the Americas is owned by the City of San Antonio. It is managed and operated by Landry’s, Inc., a hospitality and entertainment company. However, ownership details might change, so it’s advisable to check the latest information.
How many stories is the Tower of the Americas in San Antonio?
The Tower of the Americas in San Antonio has a total of 30 stories, including its observation deck and revolving restaurant. Standing at 750 feet (229 meters) tall, it has been an iconic landmark in the city since its completion in 1968.
Conclusion
The Tower of the Americas in San Antonio emerges as a hidden gem among the more conventional attractions. Despite initial skepticism about touristy spots, the tower’s unique blend of affordability, family-friendliness, and surprisingly good food sets it apart.
The 70s retro vibe adds an extra layer of charm, offering visitors a nostalgic journey while enjoying panoramic views. Moreover, the cost-effectiveness of this experience, coupled with the engaging ambiance, positions the Tower of the Americas as a must-visit destination, debunking common misconceptions and providing an unexpectedly delightful experience.
Ultimately, don’t let preconceived notions dissuade you—take the elevator ride, savor the view, and relish the unique charm of the Tower of the Americas. It’s not just a structure; it’s a doorway to affordable family fun, a taste of the past, and an underrated highlight in the vibrant tapestry of San Antonio’s attractions.
I’m Nicholas Clark, the creative soul behind “San Antonio Vista.” I’ve been bringing the city to life with stories and insights, and I want you to be a part of it. At San Antonio Vista, we’re all about making your exploration a masterpiece. Join me in the journey at San Antonio Vista, where every visit tells a unique story!
