Hot Wells - San Antonio, TX

Hot Wells, a neighborhood located in southeast San Antonio, began as a health spa and resort located on the San Antonio River. The hotel, built in 1893, burned down in 1894 and had to be rebuilt in 1900. This replacement became a popular vacation spot, bringing in celebrities such as Charlie Chaplin and Teddy Roosevelt. Several fires since then have damaged or destroyed the hotel despite continued rebuilding efforts, but in that time a small community has come together and continues to develop to this day.

While the city has several museums and art galleries, you can find the Mission San José y San Miguel de Aguayo just west of Hot Wells. Built in 1720, this historical building showcases beautiful architecture, making it a great place for photos.

The neighborhood includes a collection of moderately priced restaurants, many of them conveniently located near the City Base West Shopping Center.

Fans of Mexican food should check out Taqueria La Perla Tapatia, located on Southeast Military Drive near the shopping center. Low prices and large portions define this traditional Mexican restaurant that features red and green salsa, chips, well seasoned rice and beans, and margaritas to wash it all down. Try the chicken enchiladas and prepare for plenty of food.

Those looking for an inexpensive seafood option can try J. Anthony's Seafood Cafe, a short drive north on South Presa Street. A casual atmosphere combines with friendly service to make you feel at home, and a fish tank adds to the seafood experience. The fish and shrimp combo stands out as one menu highlight; pay a little extra for the catfish. If you prefer takeout, J. Anthony's has both online and phone ordering options.

Nicha's Comida Mexicana opens up early, giving you time to grab a breakfast burrito and a cup of coffee before work. The servers take care of diners, making sure to refill chips and salsa every time they get low. With happy hour specials including $2 beers, you may even want to come back in the afternoon.

Hot Wells has a couple local bars and clubs when you want to hit the town. Stop by Mustang Sally's for a good time without spending too much money. Music options vary, so depending on the night you may be in store for a DJ, a live band, karaoke or selecting your own songs on the jukebox. If you don't feel like hitting the dance floor, Sally's also features pool tables, dart boards, and shuffleboard.

Residents of Hot Wells tend to use their cars to travel the neighborhood and get to work. When driving, you have local roads to get around Hot Wells, and quick highway access for anywhere farther. Interstate 37, running north and south, lies just east of the neighborhood. Take it south to connect with Interstate 410, which connects with several other highways as it loops around part of San Antonio. You can park on the street in Hot Wells, but make sure to check the signs just in case.

VIA Metropolitan Transit buses service the neighborhood, with routes 20, 36, 515 and 550 passing through it. Taxis and ride-share companies such as Uber service the area.

Hot Wells and the surrounding areas have fairly flat terrain, which means walking or biking can be done without too much strain. However, walking takes too long for most commutes or errands. Biking may be faster, but a lack of bike lanes makes riding more difficult. Most residents see walking and biking as recreational activities.

A couple of free parks in Hot Wells cater to residents who want to get outside and relax with family. Bring your dog to the parks as long as you keep him on a leash.

Espada Park feels like paradise for humans and animals alike, with trails, places for picnics and barbecues, and even a river. Those who enjoy the water can go kayaking or just fish on the shore.

Pytel Park, named in honor of a San Antonio Park Ranger, has more than 34 acres of space that includes playgrounds, trails and a field for any sport you want to play. This park also stays open late, giving you more time to hang out after the sun goes down.

The cost of living in Hot Wells tends to be more affordable than the San Antonio average. Housing costs significantly less than the average, with a one-bedroom apartment typically renting for about $600.

A Metro ride to the city center costs $1.20, and gas prices come in around 12 percent lower than the national average. A pint at the local pub usually costs about $4.

Hot Wells provides a varied shopping experience for its residents, with both shopping centers and specialty stores in the area.

Nearby shopping centers include City Base West and PicaPica Plaza. City Base West focuses on major retailers such as Walmart, Target, Sam's Club, and Home Depot. PicaPica Plaza considers itself a modern mercado, or market. With books, toys, clothes, a food court, and a lot more, PicaPica supplies anything you need. This plaza even books live entertainment, including live music or magicians, to keep it interesting.

Comic aficionados should check out Collectors Authority. Whether you want to get the latest edition of your favorite comic or an issue from the past, this shop can help you find it. Stop by if you have old comics you want to sell, or if you just feel like checking out the giant Spiderman statue here.

For grocery shopping, you have a Walmart Supercenter in the neighborhood and an H-E-B just across Interstate 37. Hot Wells doesn't have any farmers markets, but you can find a few throughout the city.