RIVER WALK. This museum is a bizarre hybrid featuring the Buckhorn Saloon, an extensive wildlife and horn collection, three floors of furniture crafted from horns and antlers, and a collection of "Rattlesnake Art." The saloon includes a wooden bar made of cherry and walnut and carved in the 1890s. The wildlife and horn collection continues to expand as collectors loan their exotic pieces. In the furniture collection, don't miss the gift to Teddy Roosevelt, a chair made out of sixty-two buffalo horns. In addition to these attractions, the Buckhorn includes the Texas History Wax Museum and live performances by gunslingers, cowboy singers, and trick ropers.

DOWNTOWN. This park was once the site of the World's Fair and it is currently home to the imposing Tower of the Americas, which offers both an observation deck and a restaurant. The Institute of Texan Cultures can also be found onsite, and the lush grounds boast beautiful water features and lovely landscaping. A playground numbers among the park's attractions as well. Ideal for a break from the day or for relaxing in the sunshine.

KING WILLIAM DISTRICT. Within this lovely district, leading German merchants settled in the late 19th century. Today, its elegant Victorian mansions and tree-lined streets are a pleasure to behold. Madison, Guenther, and King William streets are particularly pretty for a stroll or drive. Stop in at the Guenther House or Steves Homestead, two historic homes that offer guided tours. The former features a small museum of mill memorabilia, a gift shop, and a restaurant serving fine German pastries and full breakfasts and lunches.

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.