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    The Empty Cross

    4.8 (45 reviews)

    The Empty Cross Photos

    Recommended Reviews - The Empty Cross

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    Ken Y.

    This sculpture garden is a must-see for people of faith and those who aren't. The park is situated off the path along a stretch of highway in Kerrville, which isn't known for much other than its military retirement community. Beautifully landscaped area with beautiful sculptures that share the message of the gospel. My friend and I were fortunate to meet a chaplain shared interesting facts about the sculpture garden, including a CD with additional info. What an awesome place to check out.

    Ruth S.

    THE MOST BEAUTIFUL REFRESHING PLACE I HAVE EVER BEEN TOO! Go Jesus and the people who work here and spread the word of God. I love this place! The prayer rocks make me cry every time.

    Sheri G.

    Really a beautiful serene place to see if you are ever in the area. I've been a couple and this last time I went it was at night, a little rainy but still worth the stop. One of my favorite things to do is place a payer on a rock in the rock bed.

    Resting in his peace
    Edward O.

    Wonderful place to not only be blessed but also learn about who our true loving God is. As you look up at the cross you will see that scripture is engraved in the stone by your feet in Spanish, English and german. As you walk in the shape of the cross, the scripture will take you on a journey. Use this time to remove yourself from our world and connect with your maker. At the top under the cross you will see posters with blessings. We witnessed the volunteers blowing the shofar. We loved visiting here and want to come back again.

    Katy R.

    Beautiful even if you don't consider yourself very spiritual. It's on a hill with a view of the whole town from the top. Drive on up (be careful to watch signs for the one ways) and park. I would says is moderately strenuous walk from car to the sculptures but it's a short walk so anyone who might have difficulties just go slow but you can do it. There is handicapped parking also that helps. There is several sections of items to view with nice paved stones around the whole area. Looks like they are adding to it also so it's evolving over time to be bigger (more items). Unique thing for the Kerrville town for sure!

    View from the handicapped parking lot
    Danielle B.

    This is a well planned area to reaffirm your faith, pray, and visit. You can write a prayer stone and apparently even get baptized. If you aren't a person of faith you can appreciate the bronze sculptures and the beautiful view of the hill country. There are some port-a-potties and even handicapped ones.

    Jai C.

    A Christian cross made of steel - it sits on a hilltop overlooking I-10 and Kerrville. The spot is no coincidence as this particular place was marked as the halfway point between the Pacific and Atlantic oceans and is at the same latitiude as Isreal. It weighs 70 tons and is exactly 70'7" tall. Mind you, I've heard of stories that the neighbors within the vicinity of the cross weren't too happy though. Something about the power lines and what have you. The area has a great view and when I came here late last year, they (The Coming King Foundation) were still in the middle of situating the garden that is to be placed in the area with the cross. When (and if) you come to the cross, there is a wall that seperates the the cross from the rest of the property around it - at the time I went, my partner in crime and I managed to go around it (the wall). I believe they may set up certain times and days that acess to the cross will be available; however, I'm not sure as to when that information will be announced. There is no exact address - just Benson Drive. If you get confused, just keep driving to the top. :)

    What a beautiful peaceful place.
    Liz A.

    There are no words to describe the beauty and peacefulness of this place. We saw this garden on The Daytripper on KLRN and decided to check it out. The is garden is so beautiful and spiritual. The sculptures are amazing and the site is very well taken care of. There are scriptures on the ground for inspiration. Posting lots of pics for visual inspiration since words are not enough.

    "Mary, Mother Of Jesus"
    Nancy C.

    I struggle with my faith, but oh the emotional conviction when I hear music, sermons, and prayers or see things like this. Not sure if I categorize myself as religious but I love this prayer garden. Made me wish my grandmother was here to see it with me, but at least I was with my dad and he seemed to love it as much as she would have. (I think if I wasn't afraid to have to answer to a higher power upon my death, I would most definitely be a horrid person) If you visit as a pilgrimage may it be annual, weekly, occasionally or just once, you won't be disappointed. People were deep in prayer and left beautiful heartfelt prayers written on rocks around the garden near the cross. Don't write on the tables or anywhere else, just use the rocks. They provide markers near the empty cross on tables with reading material you are welcome to take if you'd like. Even if you are not a person of faith, anyone for the desire to see art, experience new things, or be knowledgeable and well-rounded will appreciate this beautiful and peaceful garden. The views of Kerrville are gorgeous; you can see for miles at the top of the hill, I mean if you stop to take it all in. When the weather is nice and you are fit you can park at the bottom and hike up, it was the plan but I got lazy so we cruised to the top and they have designated and are plentiful in parking areas. It's easy to get to; right off the highway and you can see if from a ways. The entrance at the bottom of the hill has the bust of "The Coming King". Don't drive straight to the cross at the top there's more to see here. "It Is Finished" are three nails or spikes, the middle one points to the cross, also "Mary, Mother of Jesus", reflecting on the crucifixion and holding the crown of thorns. Don't miss the "Twelve Stones", they are tucked away in a corner. Now drive or walk to the top, for the last seven works of art done by the artist, Max Greiner Jr. Best things in life are Free.

    Karen P.

    This was a wonderful experience to share with my husband. We enjoyed every minute of it and the view from the hill was gorgeous. Btw they do allow dogs but you must keep them on leashes.

    Mike G.

    I'm not religious person, but I have to say this park is beautifully done. It is set on top of the hills overseeing the hill country and I-10. The park is pretty big, parking is plenty, the view is amazing and you can write your prayer on the rocks. I would suggest to get some BBQ from Calbob down the street or Mary's Taco in Kerrville downtown,and enjoy the food and view from top of the hill (just make sure you clean up after yourself)

    This statue is really moving.  It is Jesus washing a disciples feet.
    David L.

    This place is incredible. Very moving. I think that there are better ways to spend money and share the Gospel but still a cool place to visit. The cross is HUGE and is on top of a scenic hill. Next time you are in Kerrville, go check it out.

    Great stop in Kerville. Lots to read and see. Wonderful place to take some pictures.

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    3 years ago

    Very inspiring and serene. If you're in the area, stop and spend some time here. You will not regret it.

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    Good place to visit. A must visit if in the area. Lots of great sculptures and scriptures.

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    Page 1 of 2

    Ask the Community - The Empty Cross

    Is this place dog friendly?

    Is this place and parking lot semi-wheelchair accessible ? And do we take our own rocks or use the ones there lol

    Yes, there is that type of parking. You can take your own rocks and when I was there they had some… Read more

    Are there restrooms there?

    Yea, but when I went they were closed for Covid-19 purposes

    May we take dogs? Do we need to bring our rock for prayer rock to leave? Driving down from Nevada what exit do we take?

    You can bring dogs sure.

    View All 6 Questions

    Review Highlights - The Empty Cross

    The park is pretty big, parking is plenty, the view is amazing and you can write your prayer on the rocks.

    Mentioned in 9 reviews

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    San Antonio Botanical Garden - Thea beautiful Texas Bluebonnet

    San Antonio Botanical Garden

    4.4(344 reviews)
    57.9 miMahncke Park

    A unique botanical garden with so much beauty and history. We were lucky to visit during the…read moreOtherwild art exhibit, which displayed beautiful large scale colorful art throughout the various gardens. We walked through the Japanese Garden, Rose Garden, an adorable set up of a water conservation garden, cacti/succulent garden and had a relaxing break on the swing facing the pond filled with turtles and ducks. Make sure you stop inside the high humidity garden and the indoor cacti garden with a unique display of various cacti. There is also a really nice children's garden/area and the botanical garden is child friendly in general. There are a lot of spots to enjoy your lunch. I suggest bringing snacks or your lunch. I didn't see any places to purchase food. Parking is free. We visited midweek and it was pretty mellow. A gift shop is located at the entrance. Overall, this botanical garden is at the top of my list and it's definitely worth a visit.

    What a beautiful piece of heaven! I felt like I was transported into another world and didn't feel…read morelike I was in a city at all. My first visit and a definite must in the Spring. Parking was plentiful and easy. Entry is $18 per adult, $16 with military discount. The park is well paved and divided into themed sections. See pic of map below. And in addition, there were 11 beautiful art installations related to plants throughout the park to admire and take pics. Love the symbiotic flow between garden and art. I really enjoyed Pineywoods Lake- gorgeous wooded area with cabins, and lots of benches to sit, relax, and enjoy nature. Vibrant cardinals high up in the trees were singing and turtles were lounging and catching sun rays on a small island in the middle of the lake. Another fave was the Lucile Halsey Conservatory area. The multi color Flowy Flora in Flight resides there and caught my eye. The area also housed the Desert pavilion, fern grotto, tropical conservatory, and palm and cycad pavilion. So many interesting plants and landscaped in a meticulous manner. Couldn't get enough : D Plan to spend about 2-2 1/2 hours and we brought lunch and had a nice picnic near the lake. Cute gift shop and coffee near entrance. I'll be back.

    Photos
    San Antonio Botanical Garden - My wife and I

    My wife and I

    San Antonio Botanical Garden - Pineapple

    Pineapple

    San Antonio Botanical Garden - Illuminate at the SA Botanical Gardens

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    Illuminate at the SA Botanical Gardens

    Wildseed Farms - 2008 Irrigated rows

    Wildseed Farms

    4.3(299 reviews)
    23.1 mi
    $$

    Very disappointed in that Wildseed Farms adds a Tip to purchases made at the gift shop there. I…read moremade two separate purchases; one inside the gift shop and one in the outdoor garden center. Both purchases included a tip, without my knowledge or consent. I emailed them, asking why a tip is automatically added onto the gift shop purchases, and never received a reply. At this point in time, they will no longer get any more business from me.

    Finally made the trek over to check out Wildseed Farms. We came across this place accidentally as…read morewe were leaving Enchanted Rock. At that time, there was nothing going on and nothing growing so we decided to come back around when spring was happening. So this time around, definitely more popular, more cars and people wanting to check the place out. Essentially I was expecting this to be more of a field of flowers. But, it's basically that (although there wasn't much of it yet, just some flowers to see) and garden decor, pots, gifts, wine, pickled things, plants and LOTS of wildflower seeds to plant at home. The plants, some were decently priced, most were a little pricier. Just depends on which ones. Majority of the ones we wanted were a little better price wise vs going to home depot, at least we think so! We walked around the adventure trail (since it was free) to get some steps in and have the kids burn some of their energy out while roaming around (minus my toddler, she would want to run away and fast haha so I changed my mind on that idea). The trail itself was open, spacious and a great way to get some fresh air. You can be lucky enough to catch some glimpses of some flowers that could be sprouting out even though there's not much! The shops: they had different types of store fronts, one for food/snack/pickled items alongside a small cafe where you can order beer and wine, another for more accessories, clothing and some planting items too! They had standing wine tasting area near the trail walking area if you want to walk around with some wine. Parking: so much parking, so definitely not to worry although I can image it being more difficult when the flowers really bloom in their field.

    Photos
    Wildseed Farms - Butterfly

    Butterfly

    Wildseed Farms - Can walk around and sip some wine while checking out some flowers and scenery

    Can walk around and sip some wine while checking out some flowers and scenery

    Wildseed Farms

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    Shakespeare on the River - Shakespeare on the River: Taming of the Shrew

    Shakespeare on the River

    4.5(2 reviews)
    58.6 miDowntown

    In it's many incarnations throughout the city be it the Sunken Gardens Theatre, SA Botanical…read moreGardens and now at the Arneson Theatre "Shakespeare( insert location)" is still relevant. Put on by the Children's Magik Theatre in recent years it is a perfect event for fans as well as an introduction to his timeless works. Although this event is Free, at the Arneson Theatre entrance donations are encouraged which helps to fund their various programs. This season a theater troupe from Arkansas did an excellent rendition of "The Taming of the Shrew." The set design, costumes, sound system and the Riverwalk as a backdrop enhanced the night's performance. Seating is amphitheater style and it is on a first come, first serve basis. I suggest you get there early, by showtime all the good spaces are usually taken. The only thing missing for me, at least in terms of overall experience were the arts vendors and staff in character; which in the past tied everything together. Still I would recommend it to couples, students, families or anyone who wants to experience Shakespeare's plays in an outdoor venue. Shakespeare on the River is another great event that utilizes the historical Arneson Theatre. It is a family friendly event free and open to the public. Who knew that plays created in the 15th Century would still be relevant in San Antonio in 2017? ps. The Arkansas troupe played a cover of "Bad Romance" by Lady Gaga before the show even started. It seems like a song appropriate for "The Taming of the Shrew."

    This is one of my personal favorite events of the year... and it's FREE! Shakespeare on the River…read morestarted 11 years ago (I believe) and is brought to the La Villita Arneson River Theater by the only professional Children's theater in South Texas, Magik Theater. It's a superfun event that in the past entailed Shakespeare performances in the setting of a small-scale Renaissance fair including professional theater acts that frequent the Texas Renaissance and Sherwood Forest Fairs. This year, however, it appears strictly centered around bringing a professional Shakespearean theater company, Arkansas Shakespeare Theatre, to San Antonio to perform their own version of Shakespeare classics. Last night's performance of "Taming of the Shrew" was one of the best performances I had ever seen and it did not disappoint! The actors were hilarious, the Commedia dell'arte was spot on and perfectly timed, and scattered bits of pop culture really brought this performance into this century. Staying true to the story, but with a few funny twists, this troop is really worth seeing. This event runs Thursday through Saturday this year and is completely worth going to see. A $5 suggested donation towards the Magik Children's Theater will help provide a space for future performers ages 0-17 to learn and grow their own acting craft as well as continuing to allow the Magik Theater to provide fun events and child-focused theater for years to come.

    Bat Loco - pillaged from website

    Bat Loco

    4.0(1 review)
    57.9 miTobin Hill

    5th Annual Bat Loco Tue 08 Aug 2017 was a huge hit for the families of SA!…read more This year Echo the Bat mascot along with Batman, SA Batman, Bat Woman, Bat Girl were in attendance... ... and so was the Batmobile!!! ... a licensed replica of the original 1966 Batmobile that resides in Houston came out to Bat Loco... and so did I, just for the Batmobile!!! There were a variety of vendor tables with various subjects: The San Antonio River Authority (SARA), Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD), and Bat Conservation International (BCI) among others like the SA Zoo, SA Botanical Gardens, SA Missions National Parks and more. Many of the tables had activities for the kids. This was the last year that T-Shirts were going to be sold so I grabbed one for a $5 donation. I love that there was a table with $1 water bottles... Yes I said $1!!! Truly affordable water... no price gauging here! (although I think everyone should be packing plenty of water to begin with since you will be spending several hours in the August heat, I know I did!) Bat Loco also had a food court area with a variety of five or six food truck with plenty of picnic tables in the middle. Lines, Lines, Lines everywhere!... The longest lines were for the balloon bat wings and face painting. Lots of kids and Lots of lines... so get there early if you are wanting to participate in the fun things to do... OR... grab a good spot to watch the bats fly out. But you know what? ... the bats fly out every night so you don't even have to go to Bat Loco to deal with the crowd... Most bats do migrate south for the winter so the best shows are in the heat of summer! Come on down to the IH 35 Bridge at Cameron St on any night right before dusk for the show! * Note * I learned this the first year of Bat Loco... The bats under IH 35 bridge @ Cameron St in SA and the bats under Congress St bridge in Austin are males. The females and their pups (babies) are at Bracken Cave in Bracken just north of SA and south of NB. Cool bit of bat info, right? Cya next year at Bat Loco... same Bat time, same Bat bridge!!! Key in the song... Na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na, na Batman!

    Photos
    Bat Loco
    Bat Loco
    Bat Loco

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    The DoSeum - Shadow work

    The DoSeum

    4.2(338 reviews)
    57.7 miMahncke Park

    What a great space to get kids energy out! Met up with some of my TLG mamas and their kiddos to…read morehave a little playdate here and I honestly didn't know what to expect, so we went with doing the day pass ($18 per person ages 1+) yes it's pricey, but I also can see how much these kids can do! You can probably guess that we upgraded to the family of 4 year pass ($180, but used our day pass cost to include into that membership). Thinking ahead here, when it will get stupid hot later in the summer time, great way to take the kids to burn their energy and not get stir house crazy being inside all day - great way to break up the day from all the screaming and jumping around. The exhibits: wow, SO much variety! It's basically 2 stories, downstairs is the main floor area, and options! When you first enter, there's giant toy puzzles shaped as gears, then another room that takes you to a full on pretend city arena where there's little tykes cars for these kids to drive around in this pretend city, a HEB store front, airplane simulation, trolley, car wash, vet office, etc. so fun for these kids! Then another room where there's instruments like a giant piano and other fun things for kids to explore. Outside, there are 2 areas, one is a bubble play area to explore ways to play with bubbles in SO many different ways. Another outside area, playground with a giant slide, water play area with boats and things that you can imagine with water. For over stimulated kiddos, there's a room downstairs that's called a "calming room" where it's much quieter than out in the open if you need time to decompress from the chaos. Upstairs, there's a pretend to play with tools and right next to it and where you can assemble flowers. Now food wise, there's a Café Bakery Lorraine downstairs which include their macaroons, sandwiches, snack platter, crossiants, etc. It's a little pricey, but at least it's good! You are allowed to bring snacks, water inside, but not outside food like actual meals. Parking: it's free and first come first served out in the front area. Overall, we'll be back since we're now members! Excited to keep taking the kids here as there is so much to do here!

    This museum serves as a venue for evening parties, especially on Friday and Saturday nights. They…read moreconstantly create excessive noise when they have music as part of those events. This noise can be heard an entire block away -- as a loud rhythmic thumping noise. They are inconsiderate in the way that they continue to do this, even after complaints have been made. There should be someone who is answerable to the neighborhood nearby. This is outrageous. They are not entitled to causing disturbances like this. This is not acceptable.

    Photos
    The DoSeum - Upstairs with the tool area

    Upstairs with the tool area

    The DoSeum
    The DoSeum

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    The Empty Cross - gardens - Updated May 2026

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