DOWNTOWN. This tree-shaded park greets visitors with acres of playgrounds and picnic areas. It's home to San Antonio Zoological Gardens and Aquarium, the Japanese Tea Garden, the Sunken Garden Theatre, a driving range, and the city's oldest public golf course. The park also operates a miniature train that delights young and old alike. No matter your interest, you're certain to find a satisfying distraction here.

NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERNS. Geological activity and mineral display are something to behold, especially when you have the chance to do it up-close-and-personal. These caverns, discovered 40 years ago, take visitors for an underground glimpse of the earth's silent workings. The 140 million-year-old rock formations continually change, and every millennium, they're different ­ plan your trip accordingly. Attractions include ziplines for the adventurous and rock-panning for the landlocked, not to mention food vendors and a gift shop.

RIVER WALK. If you're tired of strolling up and down the River Walk, why not explore it by boat? Three routes ensure that you'll see everything there is to see, and knowledgeable narrators point out historic sites and dispense practical information (with a soupcon of humor). Charter tours and a more utilitarian river taxi service are also offered. While it's advisable to purchase tickets online, you can also pick them up at Rivercenter Mall, at the Holiday Inn Riverwalk, and across from the Hilton Palacio del Rio Hotel.

RIVER WALK. Also known as Paseo del Rio, this picturesque stretch of San Antonio's downtown is technically a city park but is better recognized as a dining and entertainment haven. Built a full story below street level, it offers three miles of stone pathways that line both banks of the San Antonio River. Some areas are peaceful and quiet while others are noisy and fun with clusters of restaurants, bars, hotels, and even strolling mariachi bands. The area is also pleasant when viewed from river taxis and charter boats, some of which serve dinner.

NEW BRAUNFELS. Get ready to slip and schlitterbahn at New Braunfels' branch of this nationally-recognized chain of waterparks. "Slide" sounds better in German, but you don't have to "sprechen sie Deutsch" to enjoy splashy thrills at the Slidenplatz or cool off at Das Lagune. More than 40 water attractions at the original New Braunfels location keep you just damp enough throughout the day. There's plenty of kid-friendly H2O here, including the Hansel and Gretel Kiddie Park and the Pizza Hot Tub (see it to believe it). Now, which way was Surfenburg?