SCHULENBURG, SAN ANTONIO, and spectacular color of THE PAINTED CHURCHES! This trip will be full of HISTORY as we take in the PAINTED CHURCHES of SCHULENBURG. Along with our 19th century European history lesson, we will enjoy lots of FREE TIME taking in the sights and sound of the SAN ANTONIO RIVERWALK!

Today, we set off on our “3 DAY ADVENTURE”. The first leg of our journey takes us into SAN ANTONIO. After a morning leg-stretch, we will arrive in San Antonio in time for lunch at MI TIERRA for some wonderful TEX-MEX CUISINE. While in the area, we will allow time for shopping at EL MERCADO, San Antonio’s historic MARKET SQUARE. The rich culture of San Antonio abounds throughout the plazas of Market Square. A three-block outdoor plaza lined with restaurants, shops and produce stands near San Antonio's city center, Market Square is the largest Mexican market in the U.S.  It is one of America's top -ten outdoor markets according to Frommer's. Dozens of shops sell everything from hand-embroidered dresses to leather belts. Market Square's working artists, musicians, dancers and major cultural events give it a rich and lively cultural atmosphere.  Visitors browse through 32 shops at "El Mercado," and 80 specialty shops in the Farmers Market Plaza. Next on our journey is the SAS FACTORY SHOE STORE. You will want to find a nice pair of shoes that will allow you to walk in comfort along the SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK. We will arrive at our San Antonio hotel in time for you to freshen up and head out on your own for some FREE TIME on the River Walk. The SAN ANTONIO RIVER WALK (also known as PASEAO DEL RIO) is a network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, one story beneath the streets of Downtown San Antonio, Texas, USA. Lined by bars, shops and restaurants, the River Walk is an important part of the city's urban fabric and a tourist attraction in its own right.           

MEALS INCLUDED … Lunch 

Today, we travel to SCHULENBURG arriving mid-morning to pick up our local SCHULENBURG STEP-ON GUIDE who will assist us in experiencing the PAINTED CHURCHES of SCHULENBURG. Located in rural Fayette County, the PAINTED CHURCHES were built by experts at the artistry and handiwork of 19th century Europe. All four churches contain ornate altars, intricately painted columns, elevated ceiling and arches covered with complex designs and beautiful stained-glass windows. The churches appear unassuming as you approach them but upon entering the front doors, prepare to have your breath taken away by the beauty found inside. HIGH HILL (St. Mary’s Catholic Church) is listed in the “National Register of Historical Places”. Construction of the present church began in 1905 with 18 stained glass windows from the previous church placed in the new church. The highest point of the spire is about 175 feet. The interior is a well-crafted example of Gothic Revival style and displays not only late Victorian features but also the European background of the German and Czech settlers. AMMANSVILLE (St. John’s Catholic Church) was dedicated on December 22, 1919. Constructed in Gothic Revival and listed in the “National Register of Historic Places”, the interior features stenciling, infill, freehand and marbling techniques. Early settlers said the painting was done by a European drifter. The windows, depicting Saints are inscribed in Czech. PRAHA (St. Mary’s Catholic Church) was dedicated in 1895 under the title Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Its interior freehand symbols and floral patterns were painted by Gottfried Flury. Well- known for his painting of church murals and frescoes, he painted the ceiling in 1895 and no part of it has needed to be retouched since. DUBINA (Sts. Cyril and Methodious Church), built in 1912, is decorated with frescoes and stenciling, an artistry common in Germany in the 1800’s.

MEALS INCLUDED … Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner

We have had so much fun the past few days but we aren’t through yet. As we make our way back towards Tyler, we will make a brief stop in WACO at the MAGNOLIA MARKET. Made famous by HGTV “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines, MAGNOLIA MARKET and its famous silos occupy two city blocks in downtown Waco. The store offers items in Joanna’s unique style. The Market has displays that are constantly changing with new stock around the shop on every visit! While shopping, you will want to take time to enjoy lunch at the FOOD TRUCKS @ THE SILOS. Whether you are looking for lunch, dessert, or even a quick snack, this food park has something for everyone. Well, it’s time for the final leg of our journey, but WOW … what an adventure! We will now travel back into TYLER. This afternoon is an excellent time to share addresses and phone numbers with newly made friends and also plan your next adventure with AMERICAN TOURS!

MEALS INCLUDED … Breakfast