NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal attended Cole High School in San Antonio, where he led the team to a perfect 36–0 season and a Texas state championship in 1989 before launching his Hall of Fame career.
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Get to know San Antonio
Greater San Antonio by the numbers
San Antonio Population
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San Antonio Metro Area Population
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San Antonio Fun Facts
| Fun Fact | Details |
|---|---|
| 7th Largest City | San Antonio is the seventh largest city in the United States. |
| County Seat | Bexar County (pronounced “Bear”) is the county seat of San Antonio with a population of 2.1 million people. |
| Haunted City | San Antonio is considered one of the most haunted places in the United States. |
| Oldest Cathedral in Texas | San Fernando Cathedral, founded in 1731, is the oldest cathedral in Texas. |
| Gatorade Connection | Gatorade was invented by San Antonian Dr. James Robert Cade while researching athletes’ fluid loss at the University of Florida. |
| Alamodome History | Opened May 15, 1993, the Alamodome was built with hopes of attracting an NFL team. |
| Shaquille O’Neal | Shaq played for Cole High School in San Antonio and won the 1989 state championship. |
| Fritos Origin | Invented in 1932 by Charles E. Doolin in San Antonio; his mother Daisy later created the Frito Pie. |
| Tallest Cowboy Boots | North Star Mall’s 35-foot boots (1980) hold the Guinness World Record; created by Bob “Daddy O” Wade. |
| First All-Digital Library | BiblioTech opened Sept. 14, 2013; free to Bexar County residents. |
| Presidential Wedding | Lyndon B. Johnson married Lady Bird at St. Mark’s Episcopal Church on Nov. 17, 1934. |
Notable Famous People With San Antonio Roots
| Actor / Actress | San Antonio Roots | Notable Roles & Career Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Jared Padalecki | Born in San Antonio | Supernatural, Gilmore Girls |
| Michelle Rodriguez | Born in San Antonio | Fast & Furious, Lost |
| Carol Burnett | Born in San Antonio | The Carol Burnett Show |
| Joan Crawford | Born in San Antonio | Classic Hollywood icon |
| Henry Thomas | Born in San Antonio | E.T., Haunting of Hill House |
| Jesse Borrego | Born in San Antonio | Blood In Blood Out, Fame |
| Ricardo Chavira | Born in San Antonio | Desperate Housewives, Selena |
| Gil Birmingham | Born in San Antonio | Twilight, Yellowstone |
| Jonathan Joss | Born in San Antonio | King of the Hill, Parks & Rec |
| Nicolas Cantu (rising) | Raised in San Antonio | Walking Dead, Spielberg’s Fabelmans |
Notable Famous People That Called or Calls
San Antonio Home
| Actor / Entertainer | Connection to San Antonio |
|---|---|
| Tommy Lee Jones | Current resident in Terrell Hills, near downtown |
| Pedro Pascal | Spent his early childhood in San Antonio; maintains strong ties |
| Ricardo Chavira | Born and raised in San Antonio |
| Nicolas Cantu | Raised here; returned in 2022 after pursuing acting career |
| Shaquille O’Neal | |
| Gabriel Iglesias | Called San Antonio “home” during a public event in 2025 |
Standing Tall in downtown San Antonio
Tower of the Americas
The Tower of the Americas is the tallest freestanding structure in San Antonio, soaring 622 feet — about the height of a 60-story building. Weighing an impressive 80 million pounds, the tower features 952 steps from bottom to top.
Three high-speed elevators, each traveling at 800 feet per minute, can transport up to 1,950 passengers per hour. The ride from the ground to the top takes just 43 seconds, offering breathtaking views of the city in under a minute.
Most Floors in the City
Mariott Rivercenter on the Riverwalk
The San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter, rising along the city’s world-famous River Walk, is the tallest building in San Antonio. Completed in 1988, the hotel soars 546 feet into the sky with 38 floors, making it a standout against the city’s characteristically wide and low-profile skyline.
San Antonio’s urban landscape is known more for its historic architecture, sprawling neighborhoods, and cultural landmarks than for clusters of skyscrapers. This makes the Marriott Rivercenter an especially striking feature — a modern high-rise that offers sweeping views of the River Walk, downtown, and beyond. It remains one of the most recognizable silhouettes in the city’s skyline.
A Gift from our Southern Neighbors
La Antorcha de la Amistad
The Torch of Friendship
Standing 65 feet (20 meters) tall in the heart of downtown San Antonio, at the center of a bustling traffic circle, the La Antorcha de la Amistad — or The Torch of Friendship — is a striking landmark created and gifted by renowned Mexican sculptor Sebastián. Presented by the Mexican government to the City of San Antonio, the sculpture serves as a powerful symbol of friendship, cooperation, and shared culture between the two nations and the city.
Weighing more than 45 tons (40,800 kg), the monument features two towering steel posts that rise at non-parallel angles. To the eye, they appear to ascend straight upward until, near the top, they begin a graceful sequence of curls and twists before meeting and joining at the sculpture’s highest point. This dynamic design gives the piece both strength and elegance, embodying the intertwined destinies of neighboring cultures.
These Boots Weren't Made for Walking
World's Largest Cowboy Boots
North Star Mall Entrance
Inspired by the larger-than-life charm of classic roadside statues, Texas-born artist Bob “Daddy-O” Wade designed and built the now-famous giant cowboy boots for an art installation in Washington, D.C. The whimsical sculpture quickly became a conversation piece, blending Western culture with pop art flair.
Not long after, the boots were purchased by North Star Mall and transported back to San Antonio — a fitting home for such an iconic Texas symbol. On January 16, 1980, Wade personally reinstalled the massive boots at the mall’s entrance, where they’ve stood ever since.
Today, at 35 feet tall and weighing over 10,000 pounds, they hold the Guinness World Record for the world’s tallest cowboy boots, serving as a beloved landmark and a favorite photo spot for locals and visitors alike.
A River Runs Through It
San Antonio River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk is a vibrant urban oasis, with the San Antonio River winding gracefully through the heart of the city. It’s the number one attraction for visitors, offering a lively mix of dining, shopping, and entertainment along its scenic pathways.
One of the River Walk’s unique perks? You can enjoy an alcoholic beverage while strolling at river level. So go ahead — grab a margarita and take in the sights as you explore this iconic destination.
For couples seeking a truly memorable wedding spot, Marriage Island is a romantic choice. Located on the riverbank near Hotel Contessa, this charming islet hosts countless “I do” moments each year. To learn more or make arrangements, contact the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation at 210-207-7275.
Everything is Bigger in Texas
World's Largest Virgin Mary Mosaic
Located at 723 Brazos Street, the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center is home to the world’s largest Virgin Mary mosaic. Standing an impressive 40 feet tall, the piece was created in 2004 by renowned artist Jesse Treviño and designed to resemble a towering devotional candle.
This breathtaking work of public art has become a cultural landmark, drawing visitors from around the globe who come to admire its intricate detail and capture photos of its radiant presence.
What San Antonio is Truly Known For: Tacos
Taco City, USA
San Antonio might not lead the nation in the sheer number of Mexican restaurants, but it shines for its authentic Tex-Mex culture and iconic tacos — especially the one-of-a-kind puffy taco. This crispy-yet-airy creation was first served at Ray’s Drive Inn in the 1970s, where brothers Arturo and Henry Lopez perfected the now-famous fried tortilla shell. Today, the puffy taco remains a beloved local delicacy, celebrated far beyond the city limits as a true taste of San Antonio.
San Antonio's Proud Military Heritage
Military City, USA
If you’ve ever visited San Antonio, Texas, you’ve likely felt the deep sense of pride and connection to the military that runs through the city’s very identity. From the presence of multiple major military installations to the community’s unwavering support for service members and their families, the armed forces are an integral part of life here.
The title “Military City, USA™” is more than just a nickname — it’s an official designation, trademarked by the United States Patent and Trademark Office for the exclusive use of the City of San Antonio. The name reflects a bond built over centuries, honoring a relationship that is social, historical, and economic in nature.
“Military City, USA™ is not just a moniker; it symbolizes San Antonio’s long-standing social, historical, and economic relationship with the community,” said Maj. Gen. Juan G. Ayala, USMC (Ret.), Director of the City of San Antonio’s Military and Veteran Affairs.
From training the nation’s military medical personnel to hosting large-scale joint operations, San Antonio’s role in national defense is both historic and ongoing — making the Military City, USA™ title not only fitting, but richly deserved.
San Antonio Parties Each Year For A Purpose
Fiesta San Antonio
Fiesta San Antonio is a vibrant 10-day citywide celebration honoring the city’s rich culture, heritage, and historic ties to the Battles of the Alamo and San Jacinto. What began in 1891 as a single parade has grown into one of the nation’s largest festivals, featuring over 100 events — from dazzling parades and live music to cultural exhibitions, culinary delights, and community fundraisers.
Fiesta not only brings the city together in a spectacular display of color and tradition, but also supports dozens of local nonprofits through its charitable efforts.
A Wild Combination of Food and Beverage
Barbacoa & Big Red
Barbacoa & Big Red is one of San Antonio’s most beloved food pairings — a flavorful tradition deeply rooted in the city’s culture. Barbacoa, a slow-cooked, tender beef (often cheek meat) seasoned with rich spices, has long been a weekend staple for many San Antonians. Pairing it with an ice-cold Big Red soda, with its sweet and creamy flavor, creates a contrast that locals swear by.
The combination is more than just a meal — it’s a cultural ritual. Many families enjoy it on Sunday mornings, often picked up fresh from local taquerias or carnicerías. Its popularity has even inspired the annual Barbacoa & Big Red Festival, a lively two-day event that celebrates the iconic duo with live music, local vendors, family activities, and, of course, plenty of barbacoa and Big Red to go around.
Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a first-time visitor, trying barbacoa and Big Red is a must-do San Antonio experience — one bite and one sip, and you’ll understand why it’s a tradition that’s been passed down for generations.
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