It’s time to spit shine those cowboy boots – this year’s Pinnacle conference will be held July 24–28, 2023, at the Marriott Hill Country Resort in San Antonio, Texas.
Ahead of the conference, check out EMS1’s pre-show coverage and discover top attractions and amenities offered by this year’s host city – from history to entertainment to dining.
Do you have a favorite San Antonio spot you’re hoping to hit while you’re in between educational sessions? Share your tips in the comments, and be sure to send your photos and conference highlights to editor@ems1.com to be featured!
Looking ahead to Pinnacle 2023
As Pinnacle conference-goers prepare to descend upon the Texas Hill Country en masse, we’re looking ahead at this year’s event lineup and what’s in store for attendees.
In a preview Q&A, Anthony Minge, EdD, program co-chair, spoke with EMS1 about the preparation, focus and notable events planned for this year’s conference. The venue and location are one of the big draws, Minge said.
“The JW Marriott resorts are known for being family friendly, so attendees can bring their spouses or whole family along and enjoy the week of learning, networking and overall rejuvenation,” he told EMS1. “It’s the perfect balance of business and pleasure, relaxation and fun.”
Read more:
Networking in Hill Country: A Pinnacle 2023 preview
Fitch & Associates’ Anthony Minge shares a sneak peek of this year’s keynotes, social events and more
Why San Antonio?
As the seventh-largest city in the country, San Antonio offers something for everyone, whether you’re a historical buff or a food connoisseur (tip: Tex-Mex is your best bet, here!).
History & culture
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“Remember the Alamo”: Tour an authentic piece of Texas history by visiting the Alamo, one of five Spanish missions built in the 1700s, which are part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. However, the Alamo, specifically, holds a special place in the hearts of all Texans.
For 13 days, beginning on Feb. 23, 1836, nearly 200 defenders of Texas’ independence fought against 4,000 Mexican troops as they attempted to storm the mission during the Battle of the Alamo. Though the Alamo’s defenders were unsuccessful, the Mexican army’s refusal to take prisoners inspired many Texans to join the cause for independence, which was ultimately won later that year.
- River Walk: If you’re only able to do make it to one tourist attraction while visiting the city, the San Antonio River Walk is the obvious choice. The 15-mile-long river runs through the heart of downtown, and visitors can board a boat via GO RIO San Antonio, the river’s floating transportation system, to take in the sights from the water.
- La Villita Historic Arts Village: Immerse yourself in San Antonio culture when you visit La Villita or “the little village,” where artisans and craftworkers sell blown glass, jewelry, clothes and other handmade items. The area was one of the city’s original settlements, and was a major hub during the Texas revolution.
Entertainment
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a non-stop celebration of San Antonio and South Texas. It’s designed around four themed areas: The Mexican town of Los Festivales; the German village of Spassburg; the 1920s cowboy boomtown of Crackaxle Canyon; and the small Texas town of Rockville which includes a ‘50s -‘60s seaside boardwalk. Themes are carried out by entertaining musical shows and exciting rides including water rides and massive roller coasters.
- Louis Tussaud’s Plaza Wax Museum: This unique attracition houses more than 225 life-like characters in four themed sections – Hollywood, Horrors, History and Religion.
- Ripley’s Believe It or Not! Odditorium: Proving that truth can be stranger than fiction, Ripley’s is known for providing exhibits that showcase the ultimate in odd and bizarre like a two-trunked elephant, a 512-pound iron meteorite and locks of Marilyn Monroe’s hair, among other oddities.
- Morgan’s Wonderland: Designed specifically for individuals with special needs, but open to those of all abilities, Morgan’s Wonderland is the world’s first ultra-accessible family fun park. Morgan’s Wonderland is completely wheelchair-accessible, features more than 25 elements and attractions including rides, playgrounds, gardens, an eight-acre fishing lake, 18,000-square-foot special-events center, 575-seat amphitheater and picnic and rest areas throughout the park. The park also features Morgan’s Inspiration Island, the world’s first and only ultra-accessible splash park.
Dining
When it comes to Texas cuisine, particularly in San Antonio, Tex-Mex reigns supreme. But the city is a foodie’s heaven, with a variety of restaurants to match any craving. Check out these top-rated San Antonio dining options and leave your suggestions in the comments.
- For breakfast, try The Guenther House: This cozy eatery offers both American and Tex-Mex fare, and is open for breakfast, brunch and lunch.
Location: 205 E. Guenther Street, San Antonio, Texas, 78204
Cost: $$ - For Tex-Mex, try Casa Rio: Established in 1946, Casa Rio is a popular spot for Tex-Mex in the city.
Location: 430 E. Commerce Street, San Antonio, Texas, 78205
Cost: $$ - For Italian, try Battalion: Located in a beautifully restored firehouse, this top-rated restaurant will hit the spot for anyone looking for some authentic Italian cuisine.
Location: 604 S. Alamo Street, San Antonio, Texas, 78205
Cost: $$$ - For steaks, try Myron’s Prime Steakhouse: Steak is synomyous with Texas – hence all the cows. Myron’s is known for their wet-aged steaks; check them out!
Location: 10003 NW Military Highway, San Antonio, Texas, 78231
Cost: $$$ - For country cooking, try M.K. Davis Restaurant: Customers rave over the chicken fried steak at this San Antonio eatery, as well as the atmosphere.
Location: 1302 N. Flores Street, San Antonio, Texas, 78212
Cost: $$
See you at Pinnacle!
Read next:
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