By Brooke Brinker, Contributing Writer
Saint Leo University has wonderful places to study, read, and write on campus. But did you know about the quiet, peaceful San Antonio Park? It is within walking distance from Saint Leo, and it is a beautiful place to get away from campus for a little and go somewhere new by yourself or even with friends!
As you enter the park, there is a tiny white gazebo with a sign. The park is a huge field, has a red and brown gazebo on the side, and a sidewalk all around the park.
You can come here to clear your mind and walk around. There are even green picnic benches perfect for schoolwork, journaling, or even simply just to relax. There is also a Little Free Library where you can pick up a book for free and read all you want!
“The San Antonio Park is relaxing. When I go with friends, we go on the swings to have our nostalgia come in!” said Tiffany Rejano, a junior majoring in accounting.
There is a green sign in the park that reads about Eddie Herrmann, who lived from 1936-2017. He and Willy Post were the co-founders of the Rattle Snake Festival in San Antonio.
Herrmann was the mayor of San Antonio, winner of the Benedictine Spirit Award, and the trustee of Pioneer Florida Museum. Herrmann was very known in San Antonio and did many things for the community.
Around the park, there are adorable gift shops around, with affordable items inside.
Senior Emily Luecke, majoring in communications with a specialization in digital communications, said, “My favorite part about San Antonio is how small it is. Everything about the area is locally owned, which I think is amazing!”
There is a Mexican restaurant within walking distance from the park that is incredible. It is called Pancho’s Villa Mexican Restaurant, and they have a menu full of amazing options. It is a small place, but their food serving size is huge, tastes delicious, and the service is great. They are known to be the absolute best Mexican place around campus. Many people in Saint Leo have never heard about it, and it is a wonderful place to catch up with friends, and of course, eat chips and salsa.
Rejano concluded that “San Antonio is a nice, pleasant, town to drive around day and nighttime.”
San Antonio is a small town with big things to offer. With a local park, a highly rated restaurant, and local gift shops all around, you must come check it all out and have a relaxing day in San Antonio!
