The Ultimate IG Guide to SA: But First, Let Me Take a Selfie

By: Drew Henry

Written for Rio Magazine - February 2020 Issue

Are you ready to explore San Antonio one frame at a time? Our beautiful city has so much to offer, from the historic Alamo, to the River Walk, to artful murals. What do these all have in common? They are going to make the perfect backdrop for your next photo. Travel the city with me as we search for the ultimate Instagram selfie. Get ready to filter, post, and watch the likes roll in while having some fun IRL. It’s all for the ‘Gram! 

The Alamo 

We have a saying in San Antonio: “Remember the Alamo!” What better way to remember than with a photo! This is a must-have on your selfie bucket list. One of the top destinations in the world, you will want to snap a pic and show your Texan spirit to all of your Instagram followers. While you are there, try to pose with Bella the Alamo Cat. She is a bit of a local celebrity and loves snapping pics and Tweeting. 

River Walk Bridges

While you are walking the River Walk, you will come across many footbridges along your way. These are perfect photo opportunities! You can pose alongside the river with the bridge in the background or on the bridge gazing down the river. Maybe you can even try to snap a pic as a GO RIO cruise boat passes below! Some of the best bridges for photos are near Casa Rio, the Arneson River Theater, and the Omni La Mansion del Rio. 


Omni La Mansion del Rio Steps  

Speaking of the Omni La Mansion del Rio, you must get a photo on their steps. These curved steps feature brightly painted Mexican tiles, iron railings, and lead up to beautiful white arches. What more could you ask for in a photo?  

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Hemisfair + Tower of the Americas

If you are a fan of murals, public art, and the Tower of Americas views, then you must head over to Hemisfair. It is basically a playground for the Instagram influencer. My favorite mural in the park features a white wall and some bright pink birds. I also love the canopy arches that lead into the park that are covered in vines and greenery. Both make epic selfie backgrounds. If you are looking for a bird’s eye view, head up to the top of the Tower of the Americas. It has views to impress! 

The Historic Pearl 

If you are looking for a trendy San Antonio look, you must head up to The Pearl. A former brewery, this spot is made for selfies (and maybe a beer or two as well). Hangout on the lawn and snap a few pics in front of The Pearl sign. Maybe even venture into Hotel Emma or the Sternewirth bar for an elegant snap of you living the life of luxury and style. While you are here, grab a bite and some drinks at one of the many restaurants. They make for great Instagram story content! 

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St. Mary’s Murals 

If you are looking for a more alternative aesthetic, we have you covered. Next, we are headed to the St. Mary’s Strip. Located a few blocks from The Pearl, this area is home to dive bars, music venues, and dozens of wall murals. Snap some pics as you bar hop around some of the city’s coolest spots, all while increasing your internet cache. Start at Rumble for the prettiest cocktails and circle back to Paper Tiger to try to photobomb the lead singer from whatever band is playing that night! 

Japanese Tea Garden

One of the most unique places in San Antonio is the Japanese Tea Garden located in Brackenridge Park. As soon as you step in, you will feel as though you’re not in Texas anymore. Get ready to impress your friends with some epic photos featuring flowers, ponds, and waterfalls.

San Antonio Botanical Garden

If you are into this natural look, you will want to check out the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Located a short drive up Broadway St., the gardens are home to unique plants and some of the most modern architecture in San Antonio. You will have endless opportunities for the perfect profile pic. Don’t forget to take a break to stop and smell the roses! 

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Paramour Bar 

As we head back down the river to downtown, we are stopping at San Antonio’s most famous rooftop bar for some golden hour pics at sunset. Paramour offers amazing city views and unique decor that are perfect for the ‘Gram. Sit back with a cocktail and cheers to all the likes you accumulated throughout the day. (Don’t forget to capture a cheers Boomerang for your Insta-Stories!) 

Selfie Tips

Here are my exclusive selfie tips guaranteed to increase your Instagram likes: 

  1. Lighting is everything. Make sure the light is in front of you and not behind you. Don’t worry about clouds, they actually diffuse the sun like a studio light! 

  2. Know your angles. Hold the camera up or straight on. No one looks good from a low angle. 

  3. Work it! Don’t stare straight at the camera lens. Look up and slightly past it for the perfect natural head tilt. 

  4. Smile big!