Places to See in Dignowity Hill

Dignowity Hill offers a rich blend of history, green spaces, and community landmarks that reflect both the neighborhood's proud heritage and its continued vitality. Below are highlights of the area’s key attractions and recreational amenities.

Neighborhood Parks

Each park within Dignowity Hill serves as a community cornerstone, offering residents and visitors access to outdoor spaces that are both functional and inspiring. For park hours and facility reservations, please visit the San Antonio Parks & Recreation website.

  • Dignowity Park
    Renovated in 2023, this centrally located park features a gated dog park, modern playground, full basketball court, walking paths, and improved lighting—all set against a stunning backdrop of the downtown San Antonio skyline.

  • Fairchild Park
    This expansive park offers free access to multiple tennis and pickleball courts, a playground, and an Olympic-sized swimming pool—promoting wellness and recreation in the heart of the Eastside.

  • Berkley V. & Vincent M. Dawson Park
    Adjacent to the iconic Hays Street Bridge and Alamo Brewery, this park includes a skate park and a second dog park, providing dynamic recreational options for youth and pet owners alike.

  • Healy-Murphy Park
    A serene spot ideal for picnicking, this park offers peaceful green space with views of the downtown skyline. It honors Margaret Mary Healy-Murphy, a pioneer in education and social justice. Learn more about her legacy here.

Hays Street Bridge

An engineering landmark, the Hays Street Bridge is a pedestrian and bicycle-friendly crossing that connects the Eastside to downtown. Originally constructed from relocated Whipple and Phoenix-style iron trusses—some of which came from Louisiana in the early 1900s—it is one of only five Whipple-style bridges still standing in Texas. Its distinctive 19th-century scrollwork and structural design earned it historic landmark status from the City of San Antonio in 1982. The bridge also offers panoramic views and is a favorite destination for walkers, photographers, and community events.

Ellis Alley Historic District

Situated near St. Paul Square, Ellis Alley is a historically significant area that became one of the first places in Texas where African Americans could own property following the Emancipation Proclamation. It stands as a powerful reminder of perseverance and progress, and plays a key role in the broader story of San Antonio’s post-Civil War development.

City Cemeteries Historic District

Encompassing more than 100 acres, this newly designated National Register Historic District includes a diverse array of public and private cemeteries dating back to the mid-19th century. The district serves as a solemn yet informative space that reflects the layered cultural, religious, and social history of the city.

Ella Austin Community Center

Established in 1897 by educator and community leader Ella Austin, this long-standing institution continues to provide essential services to families, seniors, and youth across the Eastside. The center is a pillar of civic engagement and social support, reflecting the enduring spirit of service that defines the neighborhood.

Whether you're exploring our parks, walking across a historic bridge, or learning about the community's legacy, Dignowity Hill offers a wealth of experiences that honor the past while building toward a vibrant future.