Highland Hills - San Antonio, TX

Highland Hills lies within the southeast section of San Antonio, which began as home to the Payaya tribe of Native Americans. Spanish explorers came to the area in 1691, naming it after St. Anthony of Padua. The United States took control of San Antonio after the Mexican-American War, after which it became central to the cattle industry. The city has grown steadily in both size and population, particularly during the end of the 20th century.

San Antonio features a variety of museums and art galleries, but you have to travel outside Highland Hills to see them. Similarly, the neighborhood doesn't have any annual events, but they can be found throughout the rest of the city. Events include the Stock Show & Rodeo, the Asian Festival and college football bowl games.

The area's restaurants, primarily concentrated around Pecan Valley Drive, feature foods from different cultures at affordable prices.

For a unique fusion of Chinese and Mexican, check out La Chinita's Restaurant. With a friendly, casual vibe and fast service, you can be in and out of here as quickly as you please. La Chinita's keeps the prices low and the portions large. If you like spicy food, make sure to try a plate of hot chicken wings.

Those looking for a taste fresh from the sea can try Neptune's Seafood House. The family dinners provide an inexpensive option, while the seafood platter gives you a chance to try a bit of everything. With TVs on the walls, Neptune's gives locals the perfect place to stop by, catch the Spurs game and chow down on some frog legs.

Blanquita's Mexican Restaurant has authentic Mexican food at low prices. It may look like a hole in the wall, but Blanquita's has a charming south-of-the-border vibe with TVs playing Spanish shows throughout the day. Get the chicken puffy taco for a combination of flavors completed by the handmade tortilla, then wash it down with a Mexican soda.

When it comes to nightlife, those into rock music may want to try The Trap on Pecan Valley Drive. This bar gets packed on weekends, so come by if you feel like catching a show. Otherwise, you can visit during the week and get in a few games of pool or shuffleboard.

Residents have plenty of options for getting around the neighborhood, but cars tend to be the most convenient travel method.

Highland Hills provides easy highway access. Interstate 37, running north and south, lies just west and connects with Interstate 410. That highway loops around part of San Antonio, earning it the name "Loop 410." It also connects with several highways, making it a convenient option for motorists.

VIA Metropolitan Transit buses service the area, with routes 28, 32 and 34 among those that pass through the neighborhood. Taxis and ride share companies like Uber also service the area. Pick up times vary.

You can walk or bike around, but most residents prefer a car for important errands or commutes. Experienced bikers may be able to handle intermediate trips to the surrounding neighborhoods, but a lack of bike lanes makes such trips somewhat inconvenient.

San Antonio has a strong blend of parks and recreation centers, and this neighborhood includes a couple local options for its residents. You can take your dog to any of San Antonio's city parks, but they must remain leashed except at dog parks.

South Side Lions Park spans 600 acres and features both a lake and a pool in addition to a large outdoor area and indoor facilities. Whether you enjoy basketball, baseball, tennis or fishing, this park can accommodate you. It even has free Wi-Fi in certain areas, allowing those without Internet access to get online. You can use the park and facilities free of charge. Kids can join a summer program here; the fee varies based on household income and family size.

Comanche Park gives you a more relaxed setting to enjoy the outdoors. At just over 80 acres, this free park got its name from the Comanche tribe of Native Americans, who once hunted in this area. Kids and adults can stop by for a hike along the trails to get in touch with nature, and parents can relax while their kids romp on the well-maintained playground.

Neither park holds any annual events, although citizens can reserve spaces for events of their own. You can find plenty of events at other parks throughout the San Antonio area.

The cost of living in Highland Hills tends to be lower than the average for San Antonio. Lower housing costs constitute the most significant difference. A one-bedroom apartment rents for $577 on average.

A Metro ride to the city center costs $1.20, and gas prices tend to be around 12 percent lower than the national average. A pint at a local pub typically costs about $5.

There are plenty of independent specialty shops to be found in Highland Hills, with malls and shopping centers located in nearby neighborhoods.

Those who enjoy hunting should try Dury's Gun Shop. Family owned and operated since 1959, Dury's has a well-trained staff that can provide recommendations no matter what you need. You can shop with confidence here, as a lifetime warranty covers each gun whether you buy new or used.

Aspiring artists may want to visit Craft Country for project supplies. Located on Pecan Valley Drive, this shop carries an extensive selection of art supplies at reasonable prices. If you want to get in and out quick, place your order over the phone first.

For grocery shopping, the H-E-B Plus on South New Braunfels Avenue gives locals a nearby option. If you prefer Walmart Supercenter, you can find one on the other side of Interstate 37. Highland Hills doesn't have a farmers market, but San Antonio has a couple options. Check out the Southtown Farmers Market on Saturday mornings for the closest available farmers market.