AWAY FROM SATX
Book a nonstop flight out of San Antonio to these 6 summer getaway destinations
It's that time of year where nearly everyone you know is either currently on a trip or is just getting back from one. Recently awarded Airport of Year, San Antonio International Airport is certainly busy this year, but it has some of the shortest wait times in the country.
If you're getting antsy to get out of town, whether it be to experience something new or to just get away from the Texas heat, here are six destinations around the country with nonstop flights out of San Antonio. We picked locations from nearly every region in the United States (and one international destination) based on flight times, summer weather, variety of activities, and personal experiences.
In the West
Seattle, Washington
If you want to get the farthest distance west from San Antonio and still remain in the U.S., Seattle is the way to go. One Alaska Airlines flight goes directly from SAT to Portland, and it takes about four hours. The city is predictably more cloudy and rainy than San Antonio, which is a welcome change for those of us who are a bit tired of the constant summer sun. There's plenty to do in the Emerald City, such as visiting the Space Needle, taking a hike at Mount Rainier National Park, and finding a new favorite coffee shop. It is the Coffee Capital of the World, after all.
Denver, Colorado
A much more obvious (and another less hot) choice for most Texans is the state capital of Colorado. Frontier, Southwest, and United Airlines all have nonstop flights to Denver. Much like San Antonio, Denver boasts a thriving brewery scene and even celebrates their own Beer Week in September. Outdoor recreational activities abound, such as hiking, biking, and taking a drive to explore Rocky Mountain National Park.
In the South
Nashville, Tennessee
How about a journey to Music City? A flight on Southwest will get you from San Antonio to Nashville in a little more than two hours. As long as you don't mind the bright pink bachelorette groups that love to run around town, a trip to Tennessee's capital is a great escape from Texas while still keeping some of the Southern charm. Enjoy a night on Broadway at one of the multiple country-themed bars, indulge in some Nashville hot chicken, and don't forget to try a tasting at Ole Smoky Moonshine. When you need a time out from all of the activities, consider visiting Centennial Park to see the Parthenon and take a nap under one of the tall trees.
Charlotte, North Carolina
Now let's hop one state over to the fellow Southern state of North Carolina, another city where American Airlines flies nonstop from San Antonio. You might not escape the heat, but a good distraction could be what you learn about the history of America on one of the city's historical tours. While you're at it, tour of some haunted, ghost-ridden houses. Charlotte is also home to the NASCAR Hall of Fame, if that's up your alley.
In the Northeast
Boston, Massachusetts
An ongoing trend in this list is the number of nonstop flights to different state capitals. Only one airline flies nonstop from San Antonio to Boston: JetBlue. Boston is another hub for American history; the Paul Revere House is on the North End, while the Boston Tea Party Ships and Museum are located southeast of downtown. Other must-see places include the Museum of Fine Arts, the Boston Public Market, and the Museum of African American History. As for dining, you can't go wrong with any of the Italian eateries throughout the city, but Bova's holds a special place in our hearts for their pastries and arancini.
Outside the United States
Cancún, Quintana Roo (Mexico)
We hope your passport is up to date for this one: flights to Mexico on Southwest or Sun Country Airlines will only take two and a half hours from San Antonio, and we are loving the idea of traveling out of the country for the sweetest summer escapes imaginable (while remaining in the same time zone). Take your pick from several outdoor activities, like visiting the Mayan ruins of Chichén Itzá, going snorkeling, or simply relaxing on the beach.