is san antonio texas a good place to visit

18 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in San Antonio

Written by Lana Law Updated Dec 25, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Home to some of the most famous historic sites in Texas, San Antonio is a wonderful city for sightseeing. If you want to add some fun activities to your itinerary, you'll also find great opportunities for mini-adventures in or near the city.

Take a walk or cruise along the River Walk and then spend some time exploring the Alamo and the city's historic missions . To experience some of San Antonio's fine cuisine, try dining in the Pearl District, or enroll in a cooking class.

If you have time to venture outside the city center, you'll find no shortage of things to do, from caving and golfing to indulging your inner cowboy in nearby Hill Country . Depending on when you plan to visit, you may even be able to enjoy the city's famous Fiesta.

Discover more things to see and do with our list of the top attractions in San Antonio.

See also: Where to Stay in San Antonio

1. Stroll, Dine, or Cruise along the San Antonio River Walk

2. tour the alamo, 3. san antonio missions national historical park & mission trail, 4. san fernando cathedral & san antonio|the saga, 5. natural bridge caverns & the canopy challenge and zip lines, 6. visit the pearl district and farmers market, 7. shop and eat at historic market square (el mercado), 8. japanese tea garden, 9. san antonio botanical garden, 10. day trip to new braunfels for country music and small-town charm, 11. fiesta san antonio, 12. culinary boot camps & cooking classes, 13. san antonio museum of art and the mcnay art museum, 14. witte museum, 15. zoos and theme parks, 16. six flags fiesta texas, 17. day trip to bandera, 18. golfing and golf resorts, where to stay in san antonio for sightseeing, tips and tours: how to make the most of your visit to san antonio, map of tourist attractions & things to do in san antonio, san antonio, tx - climate chart.

San Antonio's centerpiece is the River Walk, where stone walkways and restaurants line the San Antonio River flowing through the city center. Set below street level, this is a beautiful area with calm waters, graceful bridges, birds, and plenty of shade from large trees towering over the banks.

Most people come down here for a stroll, or to enjoy a meal on one of the outdoor patios. One of the most relaxing ways to experience the River Walk is from the comfort of a barge on a guided tour or dinner cruise .

The barges that cruise the river can hold up to 40 passengers. For dinner cruises, the barge is set with a large table in the center and can accommodate up to 20 guests. These slow-moving boat tours are a wonderful escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and a great opportunity to rest your legs after a day of sightseeing.

A great way to see the sites is with a combo San Antonio River Walk Cruise & Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour , which also includes access to the Tower of the Americas.

The Alamo is one of the most important historical sites in the United States and a must-see attraction if you are visiting San Antonio. The Alamo was part of the mission station established here in 1718, its church built by Franciscans in 1744.

In 1836, the Battle of the Alamo , one of the most famous battles in US history, played out here, when a small force entrenched themselves in the Alamo against a Mexican army of 3,000. All the defenders were killed, including legendary figures Davy Crockett and James Bowie , in a battle that some estimate may have lasted only 20 minutes.

The Alamo soon became the cradle of Texan independence, and the phrase "Remember the Alamo!" became a battle cry. The former mission is now a National Monument and UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, Texas

Official site: www.thealamo.org

In 2015, the San Antonio Missions were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the first such designation in the state of Texas. The five missions, including the famous Alamo (Mission Valero) were built in the early 1700s, established by the Franciscan Order in an effort by Spain to colonize and evangelize the region.

Today, they are one of the city's greatest tourist attractions. If you have time to see only a few of the missions, be sure to see the Alamo , Mission San Jose , and Mission Concepción . The remaining two include Mission San Juan and Mission Espada. The Mission Trail connects the missions.

Most people drive between the missions, but if you want to combine a little outdoor activity with your sightseeing, consider biking between the missions. With a full day and the help of the city's bike share program, you can bike all the way from the Alamo in downtown to the other four missions on an eight-mile, one-way ride or a 16-mile return trip.

The Mission Hike and Bike Trail , which runs along the river and up to the missions, is both scenic and informative and a lovely way to spend a day.

If you are traveling with kids, pick up a Junior Ranger activity book at the Visitor Center.

Official site: www.nps.gov/saan/index.htm

Famous as the burial site of the heroes of the Alamo, the Roman Catholic San Fernando Cathedral (Church of Nuestra Señora de la Candelaria y Guadalupe) is one of the oldest cathedrals in the US and is listed on the National register of Historic Places. The walls of the original church, completed in 1750 and built by settlers from the Canary Islands, now form the cathedral's sanctuary.

The cathedral is on Main Plaza and is one of the best places to visit in San Antonio after dark. At night, it becomes the stage for one of San Antonio's most visually compelling attractions, known as San Antonio|The Saga . Offered free of charge every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening, this video art installation , created by Xavier de Richemont, is a 24-minute video, with choreographed music and narration, projected onto the side of San Fernando Cathedral.

A 7,000-square-foot projection highlights the history and progression of San Antonio through an amazing display of colorful images and Surround Sound. If you are looking for something to do at night in San Antonio, this should be on your list.

Official site: https://www.visitsanantonio.com/san-antonio-the-saga/

Less than 30 minutes from San Antonio is Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest commercial caves in Texas. These spectacular caves are known for their huge open rooms but they also have narrow passages and interesting formations.

Two types of cave tours are available and take approximately 70 minutes. But there are plenty of things to do here other than just touring the caves, and if you're looking for more of an adrenaline rush, try the Canopy Challenge, a course of platforms and ladders 60 feet above the ground, as well as ziplines. Younger children can also get in on the action with the Sky Tykes , with a rope course designed for younger kids and toddlers.

Another above ground option at the caverns is a gem and fossil mining experience that allows kids or adults a chance to see how miners panned for gold, and find and identify their own gems in mining rough. Also here is a maze and a place to buy souvenirs, food, and fresh fudge.

Official site: www.naturalbridgecaverns.com

The Pearl is a trendy historic district of San Antonio, with lovely restored buildings, unique shops, and a reputation for great cuisine and hip restaurants . On weekends, the Pearl is home to a lively farmers market, with vendors from a 150-mile radius of the city set up at tables on a pedestrian-only street, selling fresh produce, baked goods, sauces, and other specialties.

The Pearl district has become synonymous with great cuisine and wonderful dining experiences. While fine dining is a term that comes to mind, the restaurants here are not all about white tablecloths and expensive entrees.

This area is about atmosphere and tasty dishes. The Pearl is also home to a Culinary Institute of America campus, one of only three such campuses in the United States. The CIA, as it is more commonly known, has strong ties to this area, and its signature restaurant, the Nao Latin Gastro Bar, is located here.

Official site: http://atpearl.com

Market Square is the place to go to find unique items and souvenirs. This three-block strip of shops and restaurants is known for being the largest Mexican market in the United States . The indoor El Mercado sells everything from sombreros to pottery.

Locally owned shops display handcrafted art works and all kinds of interesting items that range from paintings and dolls to blankets, jewelry, ponchos, dresses, shoes, musical instruments, and much more.

When you've had your fill of shopping, check out Mi Tierra Café Y Panadería for lunch, dinner, a treat from the bakery, or simply to have a look around. This restaurant is a San Antonio institution that has been in operation by the Cortez family since 1941 and is the size of an entire block.

Open 24 hours a day and serving Mexican food, this one-of-a-kind restaurant is elaborately decorated with Christmas lights and fiesta flags and includes a bakery counter, with baking done right on-site.

Musicians stroll through the restaurant for added atmosphere. Be sure to see the huge mural on one of the dining room walls showing famous people and members of the Cortez family.

Official site: www.marketsquaresa.com

The Japanese Tea Garden is a beautiful, relaxing space and a free attraction in San Antonio. A former rock quarry, this area has been transformed into a peaceful garden with exotic plants, ponds with Koi, waterfalls, and the lovely stone Pavilion. Walkways meander through the gardens. The Jingu House is an on-site restaurant with indoor and outdoor dining space.

The Japanese Tea Garden is about a 10-minute drive from the River Walk. You can combine a visit here with the nearby San Antonio Zoo.

Address: 200-414 Alpine, San Antonio, Texas

Official site: https://saparksfoundation.org/japanese-tea-garden/

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is an oasis of green in the city. Take a wander around and soak up the quiet and be dazzled by the colors. The garden has a wonderful array of trails that wind their way past some of the main highlights. These include the Mays Family Display Garden with its focus on native plants, the Water Saver Conservation Garden highlighting drought resistant plants, and the 2.5-acre Family Adventure Garden where kids are invited to "mess with Texas."

For a quick trip to the tropics, step inside the Lucille Halsell Conservatory . This 90,000-square-foot complex features heat and humidity-loving plants from around the world. Some of the highlights include the Fern Room, the Palm and Cycad Pavilion, the colorful plants of the Gretchen Northrup Tropical Conservatory, and the cacti of the Robert and Helen Kleberg Desert Pavilion.

Official site: https://www.sabot.org/

About 40 minutes northeast of San Antonio is the town of New Braunfels, with charming historic areas and country music performances by some of the biggest names in the industry. The Gruene Historic District is one of the main highlights, with an old Grist Mill that has been converted into a beautiful riverside restaurant and the famous Gruene Hall , the oldest dance hall in America .

Today, this building is still in operation, with live music performances every day. Garth Brooks, Willie Nelson, and George Strait are just some of the performers who have graced this small stage over the years. Also not to be missed is the General Store , which looks like it might have been transplanted here from a whole other era.

If you are visiting during the summer, one of the most popular things to do is tubing down the Guadalupe River. On hot days, the river is almost clogged with tubers floating along, enjoying the sun. You can also combine a trip to New Braunfels with a stop at Natural Bridge Caverns for a full day adventure.

Fiesta is an annual 10-day celebration of epic proportion, held in the spring. Parades and events, including the famous Battle of Flowers parade , are constant in San Antonio during this time, giving the city an almost electric vibe.

Stores, restaurants, and houses are decorated for the event. People collect, trade, and wear metal pins, and the Fiesta King and Queen, chosen each year based on how much money they have raised for charity, reign over the celebrations. It's not uncommon to see traffic stop as a "royal" motorcade drives through the city. If you are going to be in the city during this time, check the event schedule and plan on seeing some of the activities.

Official site: https://fiestasanantonio.org/

If you ever wanted to enhance your skill level in the kitchen, San Antonio may be just the place to make it happen in a hurry. This city has the distinction of being the location of one of three Culinary Institute of America (CIA) campuses in the United States, and as a result, food is a serious topic in this city.

Fortunately, the CIA offers classes and unique programs for food enthusiasts who want to become better cooks. The institute offers short Culinary Boot Camps for different types of culinary interests, as well as individual cooking classes. Boot Camps range in length from two to five days, and topics cover everything from baking to cooking and can be based on the type of food you want to cook: regional and ethnic cuisine or holiday specialties.

While there is no pre-requisite to register, there is a Basic Boot Camp for beginners who want to learn the basics before moving on to more complex classes. If you aren't up for that much commitment, sign up for an individual, hands-on cooking class . These last three to five hours and are designed for participants to learn and have fun.

Official site: http://www.ciachef.edu/

If you are looking to spend some time exploring museums, consider a visit to the San Antonio Museum of Art and the McNay Art Museum for two very different perspectives.

The San Antonio Museum of Art features first-rate collections of Greek and Roman antiquities, as well as Asian, European, American, and Latin American art. Highlights include many fine examples of Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artworks, as well as an exceptional collection of Chinese ceramics and other Asian art.

Another facility of note is the McNay Art Museum with its large collection of modern art, including contemporary Indian art. On the former estate of Marion Koogler McNay, in a large Spanish Colonial Revival house, the museum also boasts numerous works from the medieval and Renaissance periods.

Address: 200 W. Jones Ave, San Antonio, Texas

Official site: www.samuseum.org

Long a cultural and historical institution in San Antonio, the Witte Museum is now bigger and better than ever. After a series of recent expansions and upgrades, the Witte Museum , does an even better job of explaining and showcasing natural history, science, and culture,

The museum is home to numerous galleries that will be of interest to everyone in your group. For the kids, interactive displays showcasing how the human body works are found in The H-E-B Body Adventure Powered by University Health. For adults, a cultural overview of Texas history is in the Robert J. & Helen C. Kleberg South Texas Heritage Center.

One exhibit not to be missed no matter your age or interests is the spectacular Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery complete with a huge skeleton of an Acrocanthosaurus that will leave you feeling small and insignificant.

In addition to all the galleries and permanent exhibits, the Witte Museum hosts an ever-changing assortment of visiting exhibitions. Check the website prior to your visit to see what's in town.

Address: 3801 Broadway, San Antonio, Texas

Official site: https://www.wittemuseum.org/

There's no shortage of kid-centric fun in San Antonio. One of the most popular things to do for families with children is spending a day at the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium , a 35-acre site with some 3,500 animals from 750 species.

In addition to the animals, the zoo also boasts a narrow gauge railroad , the San Antonio Zoo Eagle, as well as a fun carousel. Also worth a visit for animal lovers is the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch , a "drive-through" safari with more than 50 free-roaming species from around the world.

Address: 3903 N. St. Mary's Street, San Antonio, Texas

Official site: https://sazoo.org/

Six Flags Fiesta Texas, a popular attraction designed with kids in mind, is a theme and water park set in a former rock quarry. You can find traditional roller coasters, more advanced thrill rides, as well as those designed for younger kids and families.

The water park rides, including the Bahama Blaster, Bamboo Chutes, Big Bender, along with 12 others, are always popular and offer a nice break from the heat of the day. You can also opt to sit back and enjoy a show.

Official site: www.sixflags.com/fiestatexas

Just an hour away from San Antonio, the small town of Bandera proudly calls itself the "Cowboy Capital of the World." This is a place that truly embraces cowboy culture, with rodeos, dude ranches, lots of horses, and country music.

If you are looking to enjoy some outdoor fun, Bandera is the answer, with ranch tours, horseback riding, golfing, and rodeo and music shows. If you truly want to experience it, why not try living the cowboy lifestyle by staying at a guest ranch?

While golf may not be the first thing that springs to mind when considering a trip to San Antonio, there are some fabulous courses in this area of Texas and some beautiful golf resorts. La Cantera Resort & Spa , with the Palmer Course and the Resort Course, is one of the most popular places to stay and play.

Other resorts in the area worth checking out are the Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa and the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa . All these courses are spectacular, both in design and scenery, and are well worth adding to your golf "to-do" list.

To experience San Antonio's charm and unique ambience, the best place to stay is on the River Walk or in the Pearl District. Luxury and mid-range hotels can be found in both of these areas, and budget hotels are generally a 10-minute walk away. Below is a list of highly rated hotels in convenient locations :

Luxury Hotels:

• One of San Antonio's newest luxury hotels is the posh Hotel Emma at Pearl in the trendy Pearl District. Set in a fabulously restored 1894 landmark building, this hotel offers a unique kind of elegance, with inviting and beautifully decorated rooms and common areas.
• Right on the River Walk is the Mokara Hotel and Spa with large rooms and a lovely rooftop pool. It's San Antonio's only 4 star hotel.
• If you prefer something a bit more hip and trendy, the boutique Hotel Valencia Riverwalk is a smaller property with stylish rooms and quaint dining and lounging areas. Rooms, some with Juliet balconies, overlook the River Walk or the quiet courtyard.

Mid-Range Hotels:

• The recently renovated Holiday Inn San Antonio Riverwalk , at the northwest end of the River Walk area, is a large property with a contemporary design.
• A two-minute walk from the action and housed in a historical 24-story former bank skyscraper is the beautiful Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk .
• Perfect for families and also in a historic building is the Homewood Suite by Hilton San Antonio Riverwalk/Downtown , with a variety of room sizes and layouts.

Budget Hotels:

• A short drive from the Riverwalk and the Alamo, and closer to mid-range than budget, is the Comfort Suites Alamo/Riverwalk , with large rooms, an outdoor pool, and a free shuttle to the River Walk area.
• Closer to downtown and in a more convenient location is La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham San Antonio Downtown , with a beautiful pool area and restaurants nearby.

Sightseeing Tours :

• For maximum flexibility, consider the City Sightseeing San Antonio Hop-On Hop-Off City Tour . Accompanied by an audio commentary, this fun tour on an open-air double decker bus takes you to San Antonio's top sights and historical landmarks, and you can hop on and off the bus at any of the 12 stops. Depending on your schedule, you can choose from a 24- or 48-hour ticket.
• If you are also interested in a cruise along the river, you can purchase a San Antonio River Walk Cruise and Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour , which includes some extras as well.
• The city's BCycle , San Antonio's bike share program, makes light transportation around San Antonio easy, with bike stations that accept credit cards, where you can pick up or drop off a bicycle in 30-minute intervals. Day passes or seven-day passes are available. There are stations at all of the missions if you want to try cycling the Mission Trail.

More Related Articles on PlanetWare.com

Texas Cities: Cities in Texas are diverse, and each has its own character. If you are looking for a cosmopolitan experience, with fine dining and museums, or you just want to see Space Center Houston, set aside some time to explore the sights of Houston , less than three hours away. Alternatively, head north to Austin , just a 1.5-hour drive away, or Dallas , reachable in about four hours.

West Texas: This area of Texas offers a completely different experience and is often what many people are searching for when they plan an adventure to the state. Cities like Amarillo and Lubbock set the stage for trips to some of Texas' more remote areas. One of the great highlights of this area is Big Bend National Park . Set in the mountains and along the Rio Grande, this area offers some extraordinary scenery, with great opportunities for hiking and camping , and is also home to a handful of unique luxury resorts . And if you are continuing west, consider a stop in El Paso .

More on Texas

50 BEST Things To Do In San Antonio (Besides The Alamo)

San Antonio truly is a great place to live and visit. There are precious few cities around where you can find both the rich blend of history and the colorful fusion of cultures that San Antonio possesses. And if you're visiting for a day (or a week!) there are more than enough fun things to do in San Antonio to completely fill up your time.

San Antonio's unique culture makes for a wide ranging variety of activities, sites, foods, and experiences. Whatever your interests are - be they historic, kid friendly, unique, or just run of the mill – there is something to be found for everyone in the Alamo city.

And to take the guesswork out of planning, we have compiled a list + map of 50 things to do in San Antonio to help you quickly decide how to spend your time in SA. 

But First, A World About The Alamo...

But first, let’s talk about the Alamo. Nothing is more quintessentially San Antonio than the Alamo Historic Mission.

Its iconic image is recognizable the world over and it is usually the first stop on any SA city itinerary. Each year, more than 2.5 million visitors from all over the world head to the Alamo to learn about the history of the region.

Given these statistics, people, most definitely, “remember the Alamo” and consider it one of the best things to do in San Antonio.

So why didn’t we make it #1 on our list of things to do? 2.5 million people can’t be wrong, right? Right. Its historical significance makes it a must-do on any first-time trip to San Antonio.

>> Problem is, after about an hour (likely much, much less), you’ll have seen all there is to see and be ready for something else. <<

Why You Need This List Of Best San Antonio Activities

You see, the Alamo is surprisingly modest in size. While pictures make it appear enormous, it really only requires a brief amount of time to tour (90 minutes tops, and that is if you are taking your sweet, sweet time).

Many eager tourists have set aside a whole afternoon or even a day to explore the Alamo only to discover that they were done in about 45 minutes and are ready to move on to the next thing. And that’s why we created this list. 

If you’ve checked the Alamo box and are antsy to see what else there is to do in the great city of San Antonio, TX, you’ve come to the right place. Below are 50 things to do in San Antonio for all ages, interests, and relative energy levels!

50 Best Things To Do In San Antonio

1. visit the san antonio missions national historical park.

It's is the only UNESCO world heritage site in Texas. While the Alamo mission may be the most famous, it certainly isn’t the only one.

Other Spanish missions include Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. You can actually bike to all of them in one day! There are too many details to include in this little blurb, but we wrote a complete guide to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park here. 

WEBSITE | San Antonio, TX 78214

2. Bike To See All The Missions

This is a great way to get your workout on while also experiencing one of the best things to do in San Antonio!

You can bike the approximately 10-mile-long trail to see all four missions or extend all the way north to the Alamo.

For bike rental info, download the San Antonio BCycle bike share app to purchase a reasonably priced day pass and to locate all of the bike-share kiosks. 

WEBSITE | San Antonio River Walk, San Antonio, TX 78214

3. Stroll The San Antonio Riverwalk

This is one of the top things to do in San Antonio, so you have to at least stop by for a bit!

Stroll the Riverwalk in downtown San Antonio or take a boat tour and learn about San Antonio’s history and architecture. There are so many things to do on the riverwalk.

If you get hungry, here are our favorite restaurants on the San Antonio River Walk . Bonus if you go at Christmas time when the trees that line the river are aglow in twinkling lights.

WEBSITE | San Antonio, TX 78205

RELATED: The Best Riverwalk Hotels In San Antonio

4. Go, Spurs Go!

San Antonio loves their NBA Spurs. Purchase some tickets and come see what the fuss is all about. 

WEBSITE | 1 AT&T Center Pkwy, San Antonio, TX

5. Don't Forget About The San Antonio Minor League Teams

But the Spurs aren’t the only game in town. San Antonio has a couple of minor-league teams that call the city home.

Soccer fans can check out the San Antonio FC (newly minted USL champions), while baseball fans can take in a San Antonio Missions game. 

6. Amble Through The World-Class McNay Art Museum

It is a home to both a permanent collection, as well as rotating exhibitions throughout the year.

(Psst: here's how to see almost any San Antonio museum for free! )

Be sure to stop by the gift shop on your way out for unique gifts and souvenirs.

WEBSITE | 6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78209

7. Hike In San Antonio

With well over 200 days of sunshine per year in SA, hiking is a popular pastime for locals and visitors alike. There are so many fantastic hiking trails nearby , but a few favorites include McAllister Park, Government Canyon, and Friedrich Wilderness Park.

8. Shop at La Cantera Mall

For those itching to shop around, La Cantera Mall has a little something for everyone, from the bargain hunters to the haute couture chasers. 

WEBSITE | 15900 La Cantera Pkwy. Ste 6698. San Antonio, TX 78256

9. Visit Six Flags Fiesta Texas

For all the adrenaline junkies out there, Fiesta Texas offers more than 18 thrill rides, including the brand new Joker Carnival of Chaos, one of the world’s tallest pendulum rides, as well as a fully functioning water park.

WEBSITE | San Antonio, TX 78257

10. Eat At Award-Winning Restaurants

San Antonio is a food lover's paradise with a number of award-winning chefs and restaurants, as well as a fusion of cultures and food that combine to make the city a great place to nosh. For a few of our recommendations, take a look at some of the best restaurants in San Antonio .

11. Wander the Pearl Brewery

The revitalized Pearl Beer Brewery now houses some of San Antonio’s best restaurants , unique shopping, and the breathtaking Hotel Emma. Take a walk through the pedestrian-friendly streets, order a meal at the food hall, or take your kids for a quick splash at the splash pad. 

WEBSITE | 303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

12. Visit The Pearl Farmers Market

If you happen to be in San Antonio on a Saturday morning, the Pearl Farmers Market is a fantastic place to purchase your fresh produce and meat from local farmers and ranchers. 

WEBSITE | 312 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

13. Eat Some Tex-Mex in San Antonio!

Because you haven’t really experienced the best things to do in San Antonio without indulging in its world-famous Tex-Mex cuisine. Here are the 13 best Tex Mex restaurants in San Antonio.

And if breakfast tacos are calling your name, check out our suggestions for the best breakfast tacos in San Antonio.

RELATED: 11 Best Breakfast Tacos in San Antonio

14. Enjoy An Evening Of Theater

San Antonio has a number of venues that host both community-produced theater as well as national tours of famous plays and musicals.

For a few local options, check out the Woodlawn Theater or the Public Theater of San Antonio. If Broadway is calling your name, head to the Majestic Theatre or the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts.

15. Go Tubing Down The Comal River

San Antonio summers can be oppressively hot, but since the Comal maintains a temperature of 72° year round, it’s a great place to chill out. Tubing season is open from March through November.

WEBSITE | 100 Liebscher New Braunfels, TX 78130

16. Spend The Day At SeaWorld San Antonio

Of course, this is one of the most popular things to do in San Antonio, and it truly is a very fun activity for all ages!

Animal (dolphins, sea lions, penguins, sharks, and more) fanatics will find an abundance of activities to take part in such as animal exhibits, interactions, and educational presentations.

If thrills are more your thing, check out the rides and roller coasters, including the brand-new Tidal Surge screaming swing.

WEBSITE | 10500 SeaWorld Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251

17. Explore San Antonio's Best BBQ Spots

A recent study ranked San Antonio #1 in the nation for the best BBQ, and not without good reason.

You can experience world-class brisket, ribs, and sausage all over the city at one of its many great BBQ joints.

We created a map of all of our favorite San Antonio BBQ spots, which includes 2M Smokehouse,  Reese Bros BBQ, Curry Boys, Garcia’s Mexican Food, and South BBQ and Kitchen.

18. Listen To Some Live Music

San Antonio certainly isn’t Austin when it comes to live music, but we’re no slouch either.

With a number of restaurants, bars, music venues, and concert halls, music lovers can easily find something to fit their personal tastes and preferences.

19. Bring Your Kids To The DoSeum

Load up your kids and head to the best children’s museum in San Antonio (or the nation, for that matter, according to USA Today in 2022). Exhibits inspire the young (and young at heart) to play, explore, create, and innovate. 

WEBSITE | 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

20. Explore Nature At Guadalupe River State Park

Just a mere 30 minutes north of SA, you can swim, tube, and fish on the Guadalupe River.

Landlubbers can hike, mountain bike, and picnic while enjoying the beautiful scenery of the state park.  Campsites and picnic tables are available to rent.

WEBSITE | 3350 Park Rd 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070

21. Day Trip To Boerne, TX

This charming German town lies just outside the SA city limits and visitors looking for unique crafts, vintage goods, or antique ANYTHING will be able to shop till their hearts are content while enjoying fantastic local food and entertainment in this quaint community.

Here are 25 fun things to do in Boerne, Texas.

22. Walk Through San Antonio Botanical Gardens

The SA Botanical Gardens are a green oasis in an otherwise drought-burdened city.

With an emphasis on plant diversity and conservation, guests will be treated to a variety of plant life as they meander the trails and rolling hills of the gardens. 

In the summer, kids can bring along their swimsuits and splash around the Family Adventure Garden.  

WEBSITE | 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209

23. Get Wild At The San Antonio Zoo

With over 57 acres and 750 different species of animals, the San Antonio Zoo has a little something for guests of all ages, including annual events and festivals such as the Halloween Zoo Boo, Holiday Zoo Lights, and the springtime Monarch Fest.

WEBSITE | 3903 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212

24. Explore Hemisfair Park

Located in the heart of downtown, Hemisfair Park is a great place to bring your kids for some fun and food.

Take in a show at the kid-friendly Magik Theatre, or monkey around in one of the three urban park areas and playgrounds.

Once you’ve worked up an appetite, you can grab a cup of joe at CommonWealth Coffeehouse, or treat the whole family to San Antonio’s best pizza at Dough Pizzeria.

WEBSITE | 434 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205

RELATED:  27 FUN Things To Do With Kids In San Antonio

25. Kayak The San Antonio River

Why river WALK when you can river KAYAK? San Antonio offers many different paddling trail options for kayak and canoe enthusiasts who prefer to experience the city from the water. Kayaks, life vests, and paddles are available to rent from a few local organizations. 

26. Unwind At The Japanese Tea Garden

This lush, outdoor sunken garden is open year-round and features a 60 ft. waterfall and a number of koi ponds.

Stroll the shaded walkways and stone bridges or find a place to sit down and zen out in the quiet of the gardens. 

WEBSITE | 3853 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212

27. Go Spelunking At Natural Bridge Caverns

Recognized as the largest commercial cave in Texas, guests to Natural Bridge Caverns will be treated to visually stunning cave formations as they tour 180 ft. below the surface.

Back above ground, guests can marvel at the summer night Bracken bat flight, challenge themselves on a high ropes course, or mine for gems and fossils.

WEBSITE | 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266

28. Visit The Trendy King William Historic District

Located just south of downtown, guests can tour the historic district with homes dating back to the late 19th century.

Those who are hungry can head to the Guenther House which was built in 1876 and is now home to San Antonio’s premiere brunch restaurant. ( Or use this map of the best restaurants in the King William District to find your new favorite spot!)

WEBSITE | 032 S Alamo St. San Antonio, TX 78210

29. Get Some Fresh Air At Brackenridge Park

Looking for some fun things to do outdoors in San Antonio? The park is home to some of San Antonio’s most popular attractions including the Zoo, Japanese Tea Garden, and Witte Museum, but is also a great place to walk, bike, fish, bird watch, picnic, and golf. 

WEBSITE | 3700 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78209

30. Visit A Local Craft Brewery in San Antonio

The SA craft beer scene has boomed in recent years and those in search of a place to chill out and pop open a cold one are not without options, including a few breweries that have won some national awards.

A few of our favorites include Weathered Souls Brewing Company, Künstler Brewing, and Roadmap Brewing. You can also check out our complete list of amazing craft breweries in San Antonio .

RELATED: 15 Amazing Craft Breweries in San Antonio

31. Head to the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo

Going strong since 1949, the SA rodeo is one of the city’s largest and most popular events. During the day, guests can head over to see the animals at the stock show, hit up the carnival rides, or do a little shopping from local vendors. In the evening, head inside the AT&T center arena for nightly live rodeo action and musical performances by nationally recognized artists and bands. 

WEBSITE | 723 AT&T Center Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78219

32. Indulge in a fantastic steak

Texas is home to some of the best steakhouses in the country, and there are more than a few excellent options in San Antonio alone. In addition to a few well-regarded chains such as Ruth’s Chris, Morton’s, J-Prime, and Kirby’s, San Antonio boasts a few fantastic local restaurants including Bohanan’s and Bob’s Steak and Chop House. If you happen to be in the market for a Brazilian steakhouse, Chama Gaucha is our go-to.

33. Luxuriate at the Hotel Emma

Whether you are visiting San Antonio or looking for your next staycation, the Emma is the perfect place to put your feet up and relax. This award-winning boutique hotel is an absolute stunner from check-in to checkout. And with a prime location in the Pearl Brewery District, everything you could possibly need is right at your fingertips. 

WEBSITE | 136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215

34. Support a great cause at Morgan’s Wonderland

Morgan’s Wonderland is a fully accessible theme park open year-round to visitors of all ages and abilities. The park has over 25 ultra-accessible attractions as well as a fully accessible water park, and it’s one of the best things to do with kids in San Antonio. 

WEBSITE | 5223 David Edwards Dr, San Antonio, TX 78233

35. Pamper yourself at a spa

With local spa menus offering everything from massages to facials and mani/pedis, you will have no trouble finding somewhere to soothe those aching muscles and completely unwind. Two of our favorites are the Mokara Spa at the Mokara Hotel and the Lantana Spa at the JW Marriott Hill Country Resort.

36. Hit up the lazy brunch scene

Brunch is one of our favorite meals and SA doesn’t disappoint when it comes to options. Brunch goers can find anything from classic Tex-Mex breakfast tacos to high-end French omelets. Check out our list of the best brunch restaurants in San Antonio for recommendations.

37. Get high at the Tower of the Americas

It’s one of the best things to do in San Antonio if you’re a first-time visitor! This 750 ft. tall observation tower sits high atop San Antonio’s downtown area. Board the elevator for a ride up to the observation deck and sweeping, 360° views of the whole city. While there, sit down to a meal at the Chart House rotating restaurant and if you time it just right, you will be treated to a sensational sunset.

WEBSITE | 739 Tower of the Americas Way, San Antonio, TX 78205

38. Celebrate the wild west at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

The museum is home to galleries and exhibitions that highlight the history and traditions of the region with a particular focus on the peoples, animals, and landscapes of the old west.

WEBSITE | 210 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205

39. Snap some pics at Hopscotch

Hopscotch is a fully immersive art installation, displaying the works of over 40 artists from around the world. Guests to Hopscotch will walk through 15 different installations where they can interact with the art while capturing colorful, unique pics that are sure to be a highlight of their Instagram profiles.

WEBSITE | 711 Navarro St Suite 100, San Antonio, TX 78205

40. Commune with nature at the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Named as one of the 10 best safari parks in the nation, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a first-rate experience for those wanting to get up close and personal with some wild animals from around the world without leaving the comfort of their own cars.  {Photo credit:  Heather P. Yelp }

WEBSITE | 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266

41. Swing away at Topgolf

Whether you’re a complete golf novice or a pro just stepping off the PGA tour, Topgolf offers a fun way to drive a few balls while enjoying delicious food from their climate-controlled, individual-hitting bays.

WEBSITE | 5539 N Loop 1604 W, San Antonio, TX 78249

42. Make waves at Schlitterbahn

Just 20 minutes northeast of San Antonio, Schlitterbahn sits on over 70 acres of spring-fed, waterpark fun. The park is comprised of two distinct areas, linked by tram, and more than 50 attractions. Whether you are a thrill seeker or a take-it-easy soaker, Schlitterbahn has something for you. {Photo credit: Allen N. Yelp }

WEBSITE | 400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130

43. Turn back time in Historic Gruene

While away a day as you roam the streets of this historic town that has been wonderfully restored to preserve the 19th-century look and feel of the original buildings. Spend some time shopping for antiques or other unique Texas fare, visit a winery for a tasting, or sit along the banks of the Guadalupe River as you dine at the Gristmill.

WEBSITE | New Braunfels, TX 78130

44. Be inspired at the San Antonio Museum of Art

You can travel around the world with SAMA’s extensive collection from ancient Greece, Rome, Egypt, Latin America, and Asia. The museum also houses a large contemporary art collection with a particular focus on American painting and sculpture.

WEBSITE | 200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215

45. Immerse yourself in the culture of Mexico at the historic Market Square

San Antonio’s “El Mercado” is the largest Mexican market in the United States, covering three city blocks with over 100 vendors. While there, you can shop at the outdoor plaza where artisans display a wide variety of goods including leather, piñatas, pottery, and authentic Mexican dresses. Or you can snack your way through the food court in the Farmer’s Market building where you will find tacos, ice cream, candy, and more.

WEBSITE | 514 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207

46. Satisfy your bread cravings at a panadería

No trip to SA is complete without a visit to a Mexican bakery or panadería. Here you can taste delicious pan dulces such as conchas, orejas, or sweet empanadas. If you have a hankering for something heartier, try a torta (a Mexican street food sandwich). While there are a number of panaderías in the city, the aptly named, La Panadería, is our favorite.

WEBSITE | 8305 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209

47. Scream for ice cream

San Antonio is known for being hot, hot, hot, so ice cream is a great way to cool off after a sizzling day of exploring the city. We recommend Lick Honest Ice Creams or Black and White Modern Creamery for anyone just looking for a solid, delicious scoop.

If you’re an adult in search of something on the boozier side of the house, check out Boozy's Creamery + Craft. And if you don’t care so much about the ice cream quality but want a really fabulous dessert picture, head to the Sugar Factory for “insane milkshakes” that are completely over the top. 

48. Party hardy at Fiesta

Every April, the city of San Antonio throws out all the stops (think Mardi Gras style) to commemorate those who died at the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto. Known as “the biggest party you’ve never heard of,” Fiesta provides an opportunity for SA residents to gather together to eat, drink, and make merry over a wild and raucous 10-day period. Fiesta events (of which there are too many to name!) include city-wide celebrations like the food and alcohol-heavy Night In Old San Antonio (NIOSA), the Fiesta Carnival, the Fiesta Oyster Bake, and the capstone event, Battle of the Flowers parade. {Photo credit: Courtesy of Betsy Newman Photography }

49. Search for treasure at Traders Village

On Saturdays and Sundays, bargain hunters can head to the gargantuan Traders Village to browse the largest flea market in San Antonio. Bring the family along to enjoy the rides, food, live music, and other entertainment events scheduled throughout the year.

WEBSITE | 9333 SW Loop 410, San Antonio, TX 78242

50. Have a cocktail at the oldest bar in Texas

The Menger Bar, located at the Menger Hotel, has been serving guests (such as Teddy Roosevelt, who set up a table at the bar in 1898 to recruit his infamous band of Rough Riders), since 1887. Guests today can still enjoy a bit of that history as they sip on a cocktail and browse the historic memorabilia that lines the walls of the bar.  For recommendations on what to drink, we suggest the featured cocktail – The Old Fashioned – as they have been doing it well for decades.

WEBSITE | 204 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

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The best attractions in San Antonio, Texas

Historic landmarks, Mexican markets and outdoor wonders make up just some of the best attractions in San Antonio, Texas

It is no secret that San Antonio is filled with some of the best attractions in the Lone Star State. River City is one of Texas’s largest cities (the seventh-largest in the whole country by population, in fact), and it is also one of the most visited alongside  Austin ,  Dallas , and  Houston . 

You’ll discover that many of San Antonio’s sites highlight the city’s colonial, Mexican and western history, and do so in fun and fascinating ways that’ll engage both  kids  and adults alike. History aside, River City also has excellent  parks  and outdoor recreational areas, quirky contemporary  exhibits , and a colorful dining scene (we suggest plucking items from our best  restaurant  and  bar  guides and slotting them between attractions). There’s just so much going on—we’ve narrowed down the top attractions to prioritize in San Antonio, so you can spend less time researching and more time exploring. 

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Best attractions in San Antonio

1.  Alamo

The Alamo is by far San Antonio’s most famous attraction and is the most visited attraction in the state of Texas. This 18th-century Spanish mission was the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, where famous Texans like James Bowie and Davy Crockett died fighting the Mexican General Santa Anna during the Texan fight for independence. Remember the Alamo today by watching live history demonstrations with actors in period dress during mock battles and firing demonstrations. 

2.  The River Walk

Whether you’re looking to take a stroll with lovely views or need a great place to go for a jog, the River Walk will cover all your needs. 15 miles long and bordered by hiking and biking paths, it’s popular among cyclists and runners, though many tourists use it as a walking path between attractions like the San Antonio missions, San Antonio Museum of Art, and various parks. Five miles of the River Walk run through the scenic downtown, home to restaurants, clubs, and shops. Book a boat ride down the River Walk to see all this attractive attraction has to offer. 

3.  El Mercado

If you’re dying for a good margarita, hit up El Mercado, the largest Mexican market in the United States. This three-block historic market boasts over 100 indoor and outdoor locally-owned shops that sell everything from Talavera pottery and handcrafted Mexican art to Mexican pastries that melt in your mouth. With live music in the square and the 24-hour Mi Tierra Restaurant, El Mercado keeps the Tejano and Mexican cultures alive every day and night. 

4.  San Antonio Zoo

The San Antonio Zoo can trace its history to 1914 when Colonel George W. Brackenridge deeded land full of monkeys, lions, bears, and buffalo over to the city. Today, families descend upon the San Antonio Zoo to see 750 species of animals on 56 acres. So, grab the kids and charge your phone—you’ll want to take photos of one of the largest bird collections in the world, hippos, and crocodiles underwater, lions frolicking in Big Cat Valley, and an up-close shot when you feed the giraffes.

5.  San Antonio Missions National Historic Park

Texas has flown many a flag, but the legacy of the Spanish is perhaps best visible at the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. This national park is comprised of four missions— Mission Espada, Mission San Jose, Mission Concepcion, and Mission San Juan Capistrano—all built over 300 years ago, but which still function as churches with regular services. The historic structures and the grounds are fascinating to explore, but keep in mind that the missions are set far apart and must be reached via car or by a hiking and biking trail. Time Out Tip: have an expert guide navigate you through the Missions, there are a bunch of options that can be booked through  Viator .

6.  Tower of the Americas

The Tower of the Americas is not for the faint of heart. At 750 feet tall, it offers stunning views of Alamo City from the observation deck and the revolving fine-dining restaurant, Chart House. To explore San Antonio from the ground up to this point, try  GetYourGuide 's San Antonio tour that starts with a narrated double-decker bus ride (including stops at the Alamo and Pearl Brewery), followed by a 40-minute boat cruise along the iconic River Walk and finishing at the Tower of Americas Observation Deck. San Antonio sorted!

7.  Natural Bridge Caverns

You’ll feel a bit like Indiana Jones crossing the 60-foot limestone slab bridge at the entrance of the Natural Bridge Caverns. And that’s just a small taste of what this natural wonder has to offer. As the largest known commercial caverns in Texas, the Natural Bridge Caverns take visitors on epic tours through ancient formations 180-feet below the earth. While the most interesting part of Natural Bridge Caverns is found underground, they also offer surface attractions like an adventure ropes course and gem and fossil mining. 

8.  Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Scream yourself hoarse at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. This amusement park has been servicing the San Antonio area with rollercoasters, thrilling rides, splash zones, fair food, and live shows since 1992. While it’s a great amusement park for all ages, adults won’t want to miss a chance to ride the world’s first single-rail coaster, one of the tallest pendulum rides in the world, and a soon-to-be-added exhilarating ride that provides the sensation of weightlessness. 

9.  Trader's Village San Antonio

Flea markets in Texas are like the state itself, bigger and better than anywhere else. Trader’s Village San Antonio is a massive 250-acre outdoor flea market with 1,000 vendor stalls selling clothing, Mexican candy, leather goods, furniture, tires, plants, and more. When the kids get restless, let them loose in Trader Village’s 11-ride amusement park. Then wrangle in the whole family so they can snack on gigantic turkey legs, funnel cakes, and tacos from the on-site food stands.

10.  Spanish Governor's Palace

The historic, adobe Spanish Governor’s Palace sends visitors back in time to when the Spanish ruled Texas. This 18th-century palace is a National Historic Landmark and was the home of Spanish captains of the Presidio San Antonio de Berar (a military garrison). Some things have changed over the years, but visitors are still provided a peek into Texas’ past on guided tours as they stroll among landscaped gardens and ten rooms filled with Spanish Colonial furniture. 

11.  Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Grab a hat and sunscreen and hit the plains of Texas for a safari experience. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a 450-acre, family-friendly ranch that sits on the outskirts of San Antonio and is home to ostriches, giraffes, and zebras. Visitors can get up-close-and-personal with 500 animals (including 40 exotic species) on walkabouts and drive-thru tours. Don’t miss a chance to take the kids to the petting barnyard so they can pose with the adorable African Pygmy goats. 

12.  Morgan's Wonderland

Morgan’s Wonderland is built on one idea; all kids and adults deserve to have fun. This 25-acre amusement park is ultra-accessible for special needs individuals and their families. There is a bevy of entertainment options, including a water park, playground, Sensory village, and music garden. Best of all, all guests with special needs are given free entrance to this accessible park. 

13.  Japanese Tea Garden

Set in Brackenridge Park in an old limestone quarry, the year-round garden welcomes all to get lost among the manicured gardens full of walkways and stone bridges accented by floral displays. You could spend a whole day marveling at the park’s 60-foot waterfall and ponds full of Koi before eating a meal at the Jingu House restaurant located within the garden. 

14.  Ripley's Believe It or Not!

Robert Ripley wandered the world collecting unusual, odd, and eccentric items, and they can all be admired at Ripley’s Believe It or Not! in San Antonio. With three floors and 500 exhibits, the odditorium houses Ripley’s unusual finds and astounds all who enter. Also on-site is Louis Tussaud’s Wax Works Museum, where you can take selfies with your favorite celebrities and royalty. Finally, hit up Ripley’s Believe It Or Not 4D Moving Theater for a wild ride on a motion simulator. 

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Exploring San Antonio: A Comprehensive Guide to the Best Things to Do

Located in the heart of Texas, San Antonio stands as a city with a rich historical and cultural tapestry, making it not only essential to the Lone Star State but also an iconic destination for travelers across America. Its historical significance, iconic attractions, and diverse offerings render San Antonio a must-visit destination for anyone’s bucket list.

San Antonio’s historical importance is deeply ingrained in American history. It was here that the pivotal Battle of the Alamo took place in 1836, a defining moment in the Texas Revolution. The Alamo, now a revered symbol of Texan independence, remains a significant historic site. Additionally, the Alamo City played a vital role in the Spanish colonization of the region, as evidenced by the well-preserved San Antonio Missions, designated as a UNESCO World Heritage site. These missions offer a glimpse into the past, showcasing the melding of Spanish and indigenous cultures in the area.

Beyond its historical significance, San Antonio boasts a wealth of iconic attractions. The River Walk, a meandering network of scenic canals lined with restaurants, shops, and cultural venues, is a captivating urban oasis. The Tower of the Americas, an architectural marvel, offers panoramic views of the city. The vibrant Market Square showcases the city’s Mexican heritage, while the Pearl District blends history with modernity, featuring upscale shops and culinary delights. San Antonio’s iconic attractions cater to a diverse array of interests, from history buffs to food enthusiasts and art lovers.

San Antonio’s appeal extends beyond its historical and iconic sites; it is a city that offers something for everyone. The city’s vibrant arts scene is evident in its numerous museums, theaters, theme parks, and art galleries. Furthermore, the fusion of Tex-Mex and culinary innovation makes San Antonio a gastronomic paradise. Whether it’s indulging in authentic Mexican cuisine or savoring the latest culinary trends, the city tantalizes taste buds like few others.

For nature enthusiasts, the San Antonio Botanical Garden and nearby natural areas provide serene escapes. And for families, theme parks like SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas offer thrilling experiences. San Antonio’s year-round pleasant weather makes it an ideal destination for outdoor activities and leisurely strolls through its charming neighborhoods.

Top San Antonio Attractions & Activities

Best Time to visit San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio makes the perfect year round destination in Texas.

Visit the city in the sweltering heat of the summer and enjoy splashing fun at Six Flags theme park.

Plan a trip during fall to explore the spectacular colors in the surrounding state parks.

Christmas in San Antonio , TX is the best time to visit to see the gorgeous San Antonio River walk lights.

And of course, you must plan a road trip to San Antonio in spring to see the gorgeous Texas bluebonnets , Indian paintbrushes, and other wildflowers blooming along the roadsides.

We have visited the city in all seasons – and that’s why, are the very best people to tell you about all the cool and awesome things to do in San Antonio, TX!

Also Read: 16 Interesting Day Trips from San Antonio, Texas

Where to stay in San Antonio

The best places to stay in San Antonio are along the Riverwalk.

One of our favorites is the Hotel Valencia, which is a boutique hotel inspired by Valencia, Spain and really enjoyed our stay. 

The hotel building is Spanish colonial style and the rooms open out on their Central courtyards and the Riverwalk.

We recommend getting a Riverwalk room, you get to see the Riverwalk from above. 

Hotel Valencia has really nice decor, an amazing library, as well as a lavish buffet breakfast spread – perfect for a family vacation or a romantic holiday!

There are many other hotels on the San Antonio Riverwalk including Mokara Hotel & Spa, St. Anthony, Hotel Contessa, etc and it is a great central location for your stay in San Antonio.

Also Read: Romantic weekend getaways near San Antonio, Texas

Best Things to do in San Antonio

While the San Antonio Riverwalk is the first thing that comes to the mind when planning a trip to the city, there are many things to do in San Antonio besides the Riverwalk. 

We recommend planning a two to three day trip to check out the city’s best tourist attractions including the Alamo, Pearl District, and the Mercado. 

Here are our favorite things to do in and around San Antonio Downtown.

We have also included popular attractions located a few miles away from the city center including amusement parks and natural attractions. 

Take a stroll on the San Antonio Riverwalk

The San Antonio Riverwalk is the most popular tourist attraction in the city.

It has beautiful landscaping and architecture and is a striking place. 

Besides the architecture, there are many other things to do on the San Antonio Riverwalk.

In the downtown section, you can dine along the river, take a narrated river cruise, people watch, go shopping, enjoy fine dining, and admire the artwork. 

Also Read: Best beaches near San Antonio, Texas

Or you could just drink a cold beer or a margarita and watch the world go by.

Whatever you choose to do, the time spent on the Riverwalk will make your trip the most memorable one. 

Travel Tip! There are so many things to do on the San Antonio Riverwalk, that we have a separate post on the Best Things to do on the San Antonio Riverwalk . Read it before you go to plan your San Antonio trip!

Visit the historic and famous Alamo

After the Riverwalk, the Alamo is the second most popular San Antonio things to do for visitors.

The Alamo, originally known as Misión San Antonio de Valero, is a part of the San Antonio Missions UNESCO World Heritage Site. 

Built in the 18th century, the historic mission was the site of the famous Battle of the Alamo that spurred the Texas War for Independence.

Visitors can visit the Alamo and pay respects to those that died during the 13 day historic battle including the texan heroes James Bowie, Davy Crockett, and William Travis. 

The Alamo is also a national historic landmark.

Visiting the Alamo is a powerful moment.

It lets you relive Texas history and the iconic events that led up to the Battle of Alamo.

Inside the Alamo, you can admire its iconic façade, visit the Alamo Church, see the exhibits at the Long Barrack Museum, learn about the Texas Revolution, as well as walk around the courtyard.

Explore the other San Antonio Missions

The San Antonio Missions UNESCO Site constitutes 5 different historic Spanish frontier missions.

They are together preserved as the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. 

The five San Antonio, TX Missions are Mission Concepción, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, and also the famous Alamo.

These were the outposts built by the Spanish empire to spread Christianity and for defense purposes.

The mission grounds included farmlands, church, residential areas, and granaries. 

While Alamo is the most famous and frequently visited of the San Antonio Missions, the rest are equally beautiful to explore.

They are one of the most important historical sites in America.

They can be easily accessed by walking or biking along the 10 miles of the Mission trail. 

The Alamo is now a museum but the other four missions continue to operate as active parishes of the Catholic church and are open to the public.

Each of the Missions is beautiful and unique.

The missions are built in a beautiful Spanish colonial style of architecture and very well-preserved.

Mission San Jose is decorated with beautiful examples of Spanish colonial embellishments.

In Mission Concepcion, you will get to see original frescos in some of the church rooms. 

Mission San Juan Capistrano is famous for its Romanesque entrance archway.

In Mission Espada, part of the original irrigation system is still in operation. 

Entrance to San Antonio Missions is free of cost and we definitely recommend seeing them if you are a history buff.

Cruise down the San Antonio River

While the Riverwalk looks beautiful from the banks, to enjoy it from the water, we recommend a boat ride down the river.

The cruises last about 30 to 40 minutes and the tour guides do an excellent job of explaining the city’s architecture and history. 

The tour is the best way to explore the entire river walk in the shortest amount of time.

You will pass by the lock fence and can take great photos of the historic buildings as well as structures that you will see along the river walk. 

Kids especially enjoy the boat cruise and this is one of our favorite family friendly things to do in San Antonio.

You can also book private tours for special occasions and proposals. 

Experience the Tejano culture at the El Mercado

El Mercado or the Historic Market Square of San Antonio is one of the liveliest places in the city.

It is more vibrant and authentic than the famous but touristy Riverwalk. 

The Market Square has an interesting and rich history.

The land where the market stands was gifted to the first settlers of San Antonio by the King of Spain in 1730.

The market is spread over three city blocks surrounded by Dolorosa, Santa Rosa, and West Commerce Streets. 

The Historic Market has beautiful Spanish colonial architecture and lots of colorful decorations to resemble an authentic Mexican market.

It has shops, restaurants, landscaping, fountains, and also benches for people to sit. 

The El Mercado is the largest Mexican market north of the border!

On weekends and during Hispanic festivals, the El Mercado is filled with festivities.

Cinco de Mayo is celebrated on a large scale and is accompanied by music, dancing, heritage performances, as well as lots of authentic food. 

Even on weekends, you will find a festive atmosphere.

Traditional Mexican Mariachi bands play in the square and dancers in traditional attire entertain guests.

Even the visitors join in the dancing and fun. 

Visit Mi Tierra and enjoy Christmas year round

The Historic Market Square is known for its delicious Mexican and Tex-Mex fare.

The most popular restaurants in the Market are Mi Tierra Cafe and Bakery, La Margarita Restaurant and Oyster Bar, and the Viva Villa Taqueria. 

You should definitely visit the historic Mi Tierra Cafe. It is open 24/7 and renowned for its Tex-Mex cuisine.

A highlight of the visit is the decor. 

Mi Tierra has a festive atmosphere and Christmas lights twinkle year round in the cafe.

The iconic “American Dream” mural inside the cafe is also worth seeing.

It features over 100 influential Hispanic personalities.

A separate Food Court is located inside the Farmer’s Market Building.

On a visit to the market, you can enjoy a variety of Tex Mex and authentic Mexican food and drinks by local vendors. 

You can try tacos, enchiladas, tamales, chalupas, churros, empanada, as well as the popular street corn.

Do not forget to try the Michelada – Mexico’s famous spiced beer cocktail at the Mercado. 

Also Read: Best Restaurants in San Antonio, Texas

Shop for authentic Mexican goods and decor

Of course, you cannot leave San Antonio without shopping at the El Mercado or the San Antonio Market Square.

The public market has everything from produce, Mexican curios, jewelry, accessories, and home goods.

It is also the perfect place to buy some San Antonio souvenirs such as magnets, postcards, frames, hats, and more. 

The locally-owned shops offer a variety of products influenced by the American Southwest and Mexico. 

You can buy unique items like hand-crafted leather goods, pottery, glassware, wood carvings, candles, jewelry, portraits, and also spices. 

You can also see artists creating the products at the market.

We love shopping for curious and unique Texas souvenirs at the market and recommend it as a fun activity while in San Antonio. 

Also Read: San Antonio to Big Bend National Park road trip

Check out the stunning San Fernando Cathedral and the Main Plaza light show

The San Fernando cathedral of San Antonio is located in the city’s main plaza and is a must visit.

Built in 1873, the cathedral has very beautiful architecture. You can take a guided tour to see it from the inside. 

The remains of those who died in the battle of the Alamo are buried here.

The exterior facade of the church is also very striking and is one of the top places to photograph in San Antonio. 

In the evening and at night, you can see the San Fernando Cathedral Light Show.

The laser show is accompanied by music and takes place every 30 minutes.

The Main Plaza cathedral light show show depicts the history of Texas in pictures and lights and is a must for every Texan. 

See the beautiful collection of the San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art, located in the Museum Reach of the San Antonio Riverwalk, is definitely worth a visit.

The museum is located in the historic Lone Star Brewery building and looks like a sprawling castle. 

The Museum of Art has more than 30,000 art pieces from across the world.

It has historic and cultural artifacts from Egypt, Greece, and Rome.

It also has a vast collection of Asian Art, Latin American Art, and post-war American art. 

The museum features a big collection of artwork by contemporary Texas artists. The museum also has many temporary exhibitions which are worth a visit.

Enjoy the culinary side of San Antonio

Did you know that San Antonio is named a ‘Creative City of Gastronomy’ by UNESCO? 

This is a much-deserved honor since San Antonio has given delicious cuisine to the world – it is the birthplace of Tex-Mex dishes! 

This blend of Mexican and European cuisine is responsible for everyone’s favorite dishes including enchiladas, fajitas, nachos, hard-shell tacos, and even chili. 

The city’s gastronomy is always developing as new flavors from around the world are merged with its own. 

While the most popular restaurants are located along the Riverwalk, do not forget to try out other popular eateries in other areas of the city.

Read our post on Best Restaurants in San Antonio to know where to go.

Take a horse carriage ride around the city

Visiting San Antonio for a romantic weekend or anniversary? Take a horse carriage ride around downtown!

When you visit the Alamo, you will be struck by the many horse carriages standing around the Alamo Plaza. 

Visitors can take a horse carriage ride to explore the San Antonio downtown and Riverwalk area.

It is definitely one of the more fun and romantic ways to see the popular places in San Antonio. 

We have taken the carriage ride many times and love it.

The horse carriage rides are about 20 minutes long and cost about $25 per person, kids ride free.

No bookings are necessary. To get a ride, you can simply walk up to the carriage and pay the driver. 

See the beautiful San Antonio Botanical Garden

To spend a day outdoors, visit the San Antonio Botanical Garden.

This 33-acre large oasis is located in the middle of the city and was conceived in the 1940s. 

The highlights of the San Antonio Botanical garden include the Sullivan Carriage House, formal and display gardens, native gardens, an overlook tower, and the Lucile Halsell Conservatory. 

The conservatory is our favorite place to visit.

It has alpine plants, aquatic plants, cacti and succulents, carnivorous plants, epiphytes, ferns and aroids, tropical fruits, and large palms! 

There is also a Japanese garden, known as Kumamoto En, that mirrors styles of Suizenji Park and Katsura Detached Palace garden in Kyoto. 

An interesting feature of the San Antonio Botanical garden is the Sullivan Carriage House.

It was designed by Alfred Giles for banker Daniel J. Sullivan in 1896 and serves as the main entrance to the garden.

Here, you will also find a restaurant and gift shop.

We recommend about 2 to 3 hours to explore the garden.

View the artwork along the Riverwalk Museum Reach

The Museum Reach of the San Antonio Riverwalk has plenty of sculptures and public artworks.

One of the most popular works is The Grotto.

This striking sculpture is carved in cement and has seashells, stalactites, stalagmites, waterfalls, and a face hidden on the inside of the sculpture.

The sculpture is three-story tall and immense, It makes a great photo opportunity in San Antonio. 

Explore the vibrant Pearl District

San Antonio’s lively and trendy pool district is fast becoming one of the top San Antonio attractions.

At the center of this neighborhood you will find the historic Pearl Brewery, one of Texas’ largest breweries.

The iconic Pearl beer was brewed here from the late 18th century to 2001. Today the brewery houses a food hall. 

A must-visit is Bakery Lorraine which is located just opposite the brewery.

You will also find many cafes, bars, and restaurants in the area. Paul is also known for boutique shopping, loft apartments, and office spaces.

The gorgeous Hotel Emma is also located in the brewery and is worth a look. 

The district hosts many events and festivals including the Monarch Butterfly festival and the Dia de Los Muertos Festival.

Even if nothing is going on, the Pearl is a great place to just hang out on the lawn, play games, and spend quality time with your loved ones. 

Shop at the Farmers Market in Pearl

On the weekends, the Pearl District is home to San Antonio’s famous farmers market.

We love visiting this market and it’s many stalls. You can easily find artisan goods, cheeses, baked goods, produce, local honey, wine as well as small eats.

That is always plenty to see, eat, and drink at the farmer’s market. 

Visit the Natural Bridge Caverns

The Natural Bridge Caverns is the largest underground attraction in Texas.

The caverns are stunning and feature a variety of geological formations.

Visitors can see the Natural Bridge caverns and explore its beautiful formations on a guided tour.

There are a couple of different types of tours depending on your interest. 

We recommend the popular Discovery tour if you are physically fit.

The tour is about 75 minutes long and takes you through several rooms inside the Natural Bridge caverns.

You can see stalactites, stalagmites, soda straws, flowstones, and chandeliers on the tour. 

Apart from the caverns there are many other attractions near the Natural Bridge.

Kids can have fun panning for gems and minerals at the Natural Bridge Mining Company Sluice. 

You can also see bats fly at Natural Bridge at sundown – in fact, this is one of the most popular bat watching sites in Texas .

They can also go zip lining or complete the obstacle course.

Spending a day in the Natural Bridge area is fun for the whole family. 

Natural Bridge Caverns is definitely one of the best things to do in Texas with kids .

Take a safari at the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Our kids love visiting the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch Safari.

This is a drive through African style safari. Families can watch and feed many different animals from the car. 

It is an amazing experience to drive through the park and get up close with so many free wild animals.

On different trips we have been lucky enough to feed zebras, goats, wildebeest, horned oryx, deer, antelope, and llamas. 

Apart from the drive-thru Safari area there are many other attractions at the ranch including a small zoo, the petting barn, the trading post gift shop, and a restaurant.

Tip: We really love the fries served at this restaurant! They are crunchy and delicious. 

See the marine life at SeaWorld San Diego

SeaWorld San Antonio is a marine theme park that is extremely popular with kids.

SeaWorld San Diego offers many thrilling roller coaster rides, fun animal performances and shows, and interactive experiences with marine animals such as dolphins, penguins, Beluga whale, and also sea lions.

This is a great place to visit for animal lovers.

Ride the thrilling roller coasters at Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Located around 16 miles away from downtown San Antonio, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a must visit if you have more time in the city.

The amusement park has many thrill rides, family rides, kids rides, and water park rides for visitors to enjoy. 

The most popular and famous Six Flags Fiesta Texas rides including Batman, Goliath, Superman Krypton Coaster, White Water Rapids, and Kidee Koaster can be found in the San Antonio location.

We recommend spending an entire day here to get your money’s worth. 

Spend a day playing at the Doseum

The Doseum is San Antonio’s museum for kids and is a wonderful place to keep the little ones busy on a rainy or hot summer day. 

While there are not enough activities to keep older kids interested, toddlers and preschoolers have a blast at the museum. 

There are many toys, interactive exhibits, and activities and you can easily spend anywhere from a couple of hours to half a day at the museum. 

The museum is popular with both San Antonio residents as well as tourists.

See the animals at the San Antonio zoo

Located inside the urban Brackenridge Park, the San Antonio Zoo is great to visit with kids.

The San Antonio Zoo is quite large and has over 8,000 animals.

It also has a reptile house where you can see snakes and amphibians. 

Kids can see elephants, jaguars, lions, bald eagles, hippos, kangaroos, alligators, monkeys, zebras, giraffes, turtles, and many birds.

Kids can also feed the giraffes for an additional price. 

Other attractions in the San Antonio zoo include the carousel, a train ride, and the butterfly exhibit.

Take in the beauty of the Japanese Tea Garden

San Antonio’s Japanese Tea Garden is free to visit and hence, one of our favorite San Antonio attractions.

This beautiful Japanese garden is created in an unused rock quarry. Hence it is also called the Sunken Garden. 

You will find many beautiful trees, ponds, waterfalls, and even koi fish in the pond.

The garden looks beautiful year round, but our favorite time to visit it is during spring.

It also provides a great respite on a hot summer day. 

The garden has rocky paths and steps so we advise being cautious, especially if you have kids.

The garden is located right next to the zoo in Brackenridge Park and you can easily see both the attractions in a single visit. 

Be amazed by the dinosaurs at the Witte Museum

If you have kids who love dinosaurs, then make a beeline for the Witte Museum.

The small museum is nicely laid out and has enough displays to keep the kids interested for a couple of hours. 

This natural history museum is based on Texas and has exhibits on everything from the dinosaurs that were found here to the history of the state.

There are many interactive exhibits as well including feeling animal hides, digging for dinosaur bones, and more. 

That is also information about the weather, and native plants and animals, indigenous people of Texas, the first settlers, etc. 

See the view from the Tower of the Americas

The magnificent Tower of the Americas building was built for the 1968 HemisFair held in San Antonio.

The tower is 750 ft tall and has an observation deck that is open to visitors.

The view of the city from the top is just amazing. 

There is a revolving restaurant at the top of the door where you can go for drinks and appetizers during the happy hour.

If you are dining at the restaurant you can go to the top and admire the view for free, otherwise you will need tickets for the observation deck. 

Walk around the King William Historic District and dine at Guenther House

King William Historic District is one of the hidden gems of San Antonio.

This was the city’s first suburb and was settled by wealthy German merchants in the late 1800s.

The suburb is located by the river walk and is amazing to take a stroll. 

On a visit to the historic district you can admire the beautiful grand old mansions.

They have striking architecture and intricate details. Most of the houses are extremely photogenic.

They all have beautifully landscaped lawns and gardens. The neighborhood is peaceful and charming for a walk. 

You can end your visit at the Guenther House Museum and Restaurant.

They have amazing food and dining in the historical setting is great fun.

This is a great place to have breakfast in San Antonio . 

See the beautiful Majestic and Empire Theaters

If you are a history buff then you should definitely visit the beautiful Majestic theatre and Empire theatre in Downtown San Antonio.

Located in the heart of the city on Houston Street and St Mary’s Street, these theaters are beautiful works of architecture. 

Majestic theater was built in 1929 while the Empire Theater is slightly older and was built in 1914.

Both the theaters are national historic landmarks and are beautiful to look around and photograph. 

Seeing a performance in the magnificent old theater is an amazing experience.

The theaters have impressive decor and beautiful intricate designs while the show quality is equivalent to that of Broadway. 

Also Read: 10 Best German Towns near San Antonio, Texas

Step into the Wild West at the Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum

The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum is one of the most interesting museums to visit in Texas.

It offers a unique, fun, and intensive experience for the entire family. It is located right by the river walk and easily accessible. 

You can learn more about history in the Texas Ranger section.

Our favorite though is the oddities, curiosities, and mystery area.

The taxidermy animals are also amazing to see.

You will also see a lot of guns, relics, and an entire replica of an old Western city. 

After seeing the museum have a beer and some Texas style barbecue in the saloon.

Both the brisket and pulled pork served here is spot on.

The decor is that of an old time saloon and you can almost imagine cowboys sitting at the table with their horses tied outside in the days of the Wild West. 

We recommend this underrated San Antonio attraction for everyone and suggest keeping aside two to three hours to explore it fully. 

Take the kids to the San Antonio Fire Museum

The San Antonio fire museum is a great place to take kids of all ages.

The museum has many exhibits about narrating the history of the San Antonio firefighters.

Kids love seeing the variety of fire trucks and meeting retired firefighters who volunteer at the Museum.

We hope you enjoyed our post on the best things to do in San Antonio.

Did we miss out on any attraction? Please let us know in the comments.

Popular resources to plan your Texas trip

• Looking for Best Road Trip Ideas in Texas.  Read this .
• Want to plan your Texas road trip in a few easy steps? Read our  Texas Road Trip Planner  now. 
• Best Places to Visit in Texas.  Read our list of favorites  including the San Antonio Riverwalk and the Bolivar Peninsula here.
• Read  Things to Know Before you go to Texas  prior to planning your trip!

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San Antonio   Travel Guide

Why Go To San Antonio

Davy Crockett may have perished at the Alamo , but San Antonio clings to the Texan pride shown by the "King of the Wild Frontier" and his compatriots in 1836. This modern city's history especially rears its head throughout downtown. Amongst the gleaming skyscrapers, the austere San Fernando Cathedral still stands as a testament to the city's religious past. Farther afield, you'll find several other famous missions, all of which are now a part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park .

But you don't need to have a hankering for history to be thoroughly charmed by San Antonio. Families will particularly enjoy the city's theme parks, top-notch museums, professional sports teams and the famous River Walk . What's more, San Antonio is a bona fide culinary destination, with exciting fusion cuisine and upscale Southern- and European-influenced fare rounding out the traditional barbecue and Tex-Mex offerings. Considering how many ways there are to spend your day, you might have too much to do to "Remember the Alamo." If you're short on time, consider signing up for one of the best San Antonio tours for a sampling of the city's history, culture and food.

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• # 4 in Best Places to Visit in Texas
• # 11 in Best Weekend Getaways in the South
• # 13 in Best Winter Family Vacations

See All 4 Rankings

Best of San Antonio

Best hotels in san antonio.

• # 1 in Hotel Emma
• # 2 in Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa
• # 3 in La Cantera Resort & Spa

Best Things to Do in San Antonio

• # 1 in River Walk
• # 2 in The Alamo
• # 3 in Brackenridge Park

Popular Tours

Best of San Antonio Small Group Tour with Boat + Tower + Alamo

(324 reviews)

from $ 169.00

Hopscotch Immersive Art Experience

(304 reviews)

from $ 24.00

San Antonio Missions UNESCO World Heritage Sites Tour

(723 reviews)

from $ 65.00

San Antonio Travel Tips

Best months to visit.

The best time to visit San Antonio is from November to April, when the weather is comfortable and the hotel rates are lower. Summer sees the largest influx of tourists from in- and out-of-state. Because of its historical significance to the state and its family-friendly theme parks, San Antonio attracts hordes of Texas families when the kids are on summer break. But the long Texan summer is close to unbearable (for most people) with humidity and temperatures exceeding 90 degrees Fahrenheit. The masses also make for more crowded attractions and higher prices at hotels . You'll enjoy the city a lot more when you are less damp, saving cash and enjoying the festivals of the winter and spring.

Weather in San Antonio

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

What You Need to Know

An educated city San Antonio boasts several institutions of higher education – including Trinity University, San Antonio College and the University of Texas at San Antonio – that surround the downtown area.

A true taste of Texas Every April, Fiesta San Antonio takes over the entire city for 10 days to honor Texan heroes of the past and celebrate the city's diverse cultures.

Mexican influences Although Texas gained independence from Mexico long ago, Mexican influences abound. The current Mexican-American population is proud of its ancestry and you'll find frequent displays of it in the form of parades, artwork and local cuisine.

Know your pronunciations Roads and neighborhoods get their names from both English and Spanish, though pronunciations are inconsistent. For example, Bexar County (the county in which San Antonio sits and named for a former Mexican municipality) is pronounced "bear." Blanco Road, a major thoroughfare, is pronounced "blank-o."

How to Save Money in San Antonio

Be a weekend warrior An influx of business travelers causes hotel room rates to surge during the week. Stay on the weekend for an opportunity to save.

Check the calendar Conventions lead to sold-out hotels across town, and these travelers likely booked months in advance. Check the city's tourism bureau website  and try to avoid convention-heavy weeks and weekends.

Eat around the corner Restaurants around the River Walk and other touristy areas will have higher prices than those only a few blocks away.

Culture & Customs

San Antonio contrasts the old and the new of Texas: the Alamo stands strong among contemporary skyscrapers and the banks of the San Antonio River are populated with the River Walk 's burgeoning businesses and restaurants. San Antonio residents are proud of their history, with many shops selling memorabilia engraved with the words "Remember the Alamo."

Additional cultures have influenced the customs of this city over time. Mexican culture heavily shaped San Antonio as it developed. Travel experts recommend stopping by Market Square (or El Mercado ) to find a variety of tasty Mexican foods, homemade goods and south of the border crafts. Mexican art is displayed everywhere you turn and Spanish is widely spoken. For a more festive taste of Tex-Mex culture, plan your trip during Fiesta in April or during the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo in February.

What to Eat

San Antonio's cuisine has been shaped by many cultural influences, from Mexican to Native American to African American. True, barbecue and Tex-Mex are the most well-known foods, and you can find excellent smoked brisket, tacos and enchiladas nearly everywhere you turn. But Asian fusion, upscale European fare and Southern comfort food all make up the culinary fabric of the city, as well. Southtown, the River Walk, the Pearl and Alamo Heights are generally regarded as the go-to foodie neighborhoods. And you haven't been to San Antonio until you've tried a puffy taco – a crispy, fried, bubble-like tortilla stuffed with a savory filling

Oenophiles will be happy with a trip to San Antonio, too. The nearby Texas Hill Country is where many of the state's best wines are crafted. To sample some for yourself, plan a day trip to Fredericksburg (which sits about 70 miles north of San Antonio) and sign up for a wine tour of the city.

Compared to other U.S. cities of similar size, San Antonio is a safe place to visit. You may see more guns than you're used to thanks to lax firearm laws in Texas, but gun violence does not generally affect tourists. You should still use common sense, stick to well-lit areas after dark and keep a close eye on your valuables.

Those who are not used to the Texas heat should take precautions against heat stroke and dehydration, especially during the summer months. Heat stroke and dehydration symptoms commonly include headaches, nausea, dizziness and fatigue. Drink plenty of water, apply sunscreen regularly and if you are participating in more strenuous activities, such as hiking or biking, make sure to rest periodically.

Residents of Texas Hill Country share the land with numerous creepy-crawlies, including scorpions, rattlesnakes and water moccasins. While you most likely won't come face to face with these creatures within the city itself, those exploring the countryside may encounter them. Keep an eye out when walking around to avoid confrontation. If you're bitten or stung, seek medical attention immediately.

Getting Around San Antonio

The best way to get around San Antonio is by car, especially if you need to reach sites like Morgan's Wonderland  and Six Flags Fiesta Texas . Driving through the narrow downtown streets can be difficult, however, so plan to park your car in a lot or garage and explore some of the downtown area on foot. The bus system is also a handy and relatively inexpensive way to navigate the city center. Many travelers arrive through San Antonio International Airport (SAT), about 10 miles north of downtown, where you can find a plethora of rental car agencies. Several hotels also offer courtesy shuttles to and from the airport. City bus route No. 5 also services the airport and downtown areas. Taxis from the airport to downtown San Antonio cost between $24 and $29. Using taxis downtown is unnecessary, and you'll probably have to wait for one to arrive.

This elaborate building was once the seat of the Spanish government in Texas.

Explore More of San Antonio

Things To Do

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The 25 Best Things To Do In San Antonio, Texas

This vibrant city is easy to explore—from the famed River Walk and the storied Alamo to must-try Mexican pastries and puffy tacos.

• The River Walk
• The Pearl District
• Museums and Parks

Where To Eat

Where to stay.

Blessed with a prime spot in the Texas Hill Country , San Antonio has more adjacent natural beauty and cultural vibrance than most urban landscapes. The great San Antonio River winds its way through the center of the city with a pedestrian-friendly River Walk that follows right alongside it, offering a serene respite that's lined on each side with countless activities to discover, from art museums to public parks to historic landmarks that have become bustling districts. Beyond its famous puffy tacos and annual spring cultural celebration , Fiesta San Antonio—though, neither is to be missed—San Antonio is chock-full of things to do, places to eat, and interesting stories to learn. These are the best things to do on your next visit to San Antonio, Texas.

Explore the River Walk

Head to the alamo.

First built in 1718 and the most famous of the San Antonio missions, The Alamo (also known as San Antonio de Valera) began as a way station between the trail of missions. It will always be remembered for the Battle of the Alamo, fought March 6, 1836, when the structure was already nearly 120 years old. You can visit to learn more about the history and tour the grounds.

thealamo.org , 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

Walk Around La Villita

Stroll just a few blocks away from the bustling Historic Market Square to the quiet  La Villita neighborhood , where you'll find charming bridges that cozy up to a historic arts village (the former barracks for Mission San Antonio de Valero, or The Alamo). It's one of the best spots to perch on a shady bench and watch the city's signature riverboat cruises drift by, while also learning more about the cultural history of the area.

Attend the Annual Fiesta Festival

Fiesta San Antonio , the city's annual springtime festival, is typically centered near the Historic Market Square every April. The extravaganza lasts over a week and is—put simply—an exciting and colorful celebration of culture. The historic Battle of Flowers Parade, the main event, was established back in 1891 by a group of determined women (now a formal association) to honor the heroes who fought for Texas independence at The Alamo. The parade will commemorate its 133th anniversary in 2024. 

Hop Aboard a Boat Cruise

You can find boat cruises around the touristy Historic Market Square and La Villita, which are especially fun during the holidays when the River Walk is decked out in Christmas lights. However, we recommend hopping on a Rio Taxi boat —$15 for a day pass—to Museum Reach, the 3-mile River Walk extension that leads north past the San Antonio Museum of Art, nearly a dozen new public art installations, and the Pearl district.

goriocruises.com , multiple locations

Explore the Blue Star Arts Complex

The  Blue Star Arts Complex is an area on the south-of-downtown end of the River Walk where you can find a collection of "cool" local businesses, from the city's first contemporary art gallery to the  Blue Star Bike Shop , where you can rent a cruiser to pedal around the adjacent King William neighborhood and embark on the about-7-mile Mission Reach trail that connects four of San Antonio's five Spanish colonial missions. The area serves as your starting point for this popular path.

bluestarartscomplex.com , 1414 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78210

Stop Into Historic Watering Holes

Since the River Walk spans miles and can be a day-long adventure, you can easily plan plenty of stops at delicious restaurants and storied ice houses. Located off the River Walk near downtown, stop into Esquire Tavern —first opened nearly 100 years ago in 1933—for a cocktail perched at what was once declared the "longest wooden bar top in Texas." Further down the River Walk near the Blue Star Arts Complex, hit the city's favorite ice house (old Texas' version of a bar), called  The Friendly Spot , housed in a circa-1930s gas station. The outdoor hangout welcomes with refreshing frozen drinks swirling slowly in tanks behind the bar and 200-plus beer options.

Check Out The Pearl District

Robbie Caponetto

Shop the Pearl Farmers Market

This multiuse district is located on the site of the old Pearl Brewery, founded back in 1883; and each Saturday and Sunday, you can shop one of the best farmers' markets in Texas. It's a feast for the senses, with over 50 vendors selling vibrant produce, artisanal products such as handmade leather goods, prepared foods such as locally sourced cheeses, and fresh-cut flowers.

atpearl.com , 303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

Tour a Renovated Brewery-Turned-Hotel

Hotel Emma , built inside the old brewhouse that dates back to the 1800s, is a five-star-service ode to the Pearl's history and also to Emma Koehler, who took over in 1914 after her husband died. The in-house restaurant,  Supper , and the hotel rooms exude that same cowboy-chic attitude. Stop for a drink (tequila-based preferably) at the house bar, Sternewirth.

thehotelemma.com , 136 E Grayson St, San Antonio, TX 78215

Get Lunch at the Food Hall

The Pearl's Bottling Department , San Antonio's first food hall, has dining options that run the gamut, whether you're in the mood for traditional Mexican street food (including five types of chilaquiles) at Chilaquil, pastrami and BBQ sandwiches at Howdy Child, or smashburgers at Henbit.

atpearl.com/food-hall-bottling-department , 312 Pearl Pkwy Building 6, San Antonio, TX 78215

Catch a Show at Stable Hall

Opened at the beginning of 2024, Stable Hall is a music venue at the Pearl district housed in the old Pearl Brewery horse stables from 1894. Grab tickets to one of the upcoming shows, which are a diverse group including everything from mariachi bands to country singers.

stablehall.com , 307 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

Find a Sweet Treat

The Pearl district has become quite the hot spot of food and beverage, with many restaurants within walking distance. However, after the main meal, there are just as good options for a sweet treat to top off your day. At Lick Honest Ice Creams , find artisanal scoops that use Texas ingredients, including unique flavors such as Chocolate, Olive Oil, & Sea Salt and Goat Cheese, Thyme, & Honey. Nearby at Bakery Lorraine , the handmade French pastry selection is impressive, and you can leave with a sleeve of colorful macarons.

Enjoy the City's Many Museums and Parks

Visit the san antonio museum of art.

Located right along the River Walk, with even a dock for the public boat cruises to drop off visitors, the San Antonio Museum of Art is a pillar of the artistic community in the city. The exhibits span 5,000 years of art history in a complex of buildings that once housed the Lone Star Brewery. On Tuesday evenings from 4 p.m. to 7 p.m., you can visit for free, as well as on Sundays from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m.

samuseum.org , 200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215

Explore a Contemporary Collection at Ruby City

Opened in 2019, Ruby City is a newer contemporary art museum that is architecturally significant on its own. You can spot the jewel-shaped structure coated entirely in a shade of vibrant deep pink from blocks away. Over 10,000 square feet of exhibition space is rife for exploring over the course of an afternoon. General admission is free, always.

rubycity.org , 150 Camp St, San Antonio, TX 78204

Tour the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

This National Park site preserves four of the five historic Spanish frontier missions in San Antonio (omitting The Alamo) and is also the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. All four—Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada—are open for touring and exploring on your own, which is popular via bike. You can rent a cruiser to embark on the about 7-mile Mission Reach trail that connects all four missions.

nps.gov/saan , multiple locations

Walk Around the San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden

Also known as the Sunken Gardens in Brackenridge Park, the Japanese Tea Garden was designed within a restored quarry and features lush surroundings, including a garden and floral display with shaded walkways, stone bridges, a 60-foot waterfall, and ponds filled with Koi fish. Admission is free.

saparks.org/japanese-tea-garden , 3853 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212

Enjoy the Botanical Spoils of the San Antonio Botanical Garden

A non-profit, 38-acre urban oasis near the center of the city, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is a living museum of plants, as well as a research and conservation center. You can join a guided tour on any weekday or attend one of the many community events, including live music nights and movie screenings.

sabot.org , 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209

Try Authentic Tex-Mex at La Fonda On Main

For nearly 100 years since 1932, La Fonda On Main has been serving up comforting Tex-Mex favorites. Make sure to grab a table in the idyllic garden courtyard, and choose from an expansive menu that makes enchiladas (seven different kinds to be exact) the star. The margaritas are beloved in town, and brunch is a surprise standout.

lafondaonmain.com , 2415 N Main Ave, San Antonio, TX 78212

Enjoy French Cuisine at Brasserie Mon Chou Chou

This stylish French restaurant in the Pearl district practically transforms you to Paris, if it weren't for the Southern twang of the staff. At Brasserie Mon Chou Chou , expect French favorites such as steak tartare, beef bourguignon, and duck confit. For sharing, grab a baguette and cheese plate. Make sure to save room for the dessert menu, and each day of the week features a cozy brasserie special entrée.

brasseriemonchouchou.com , 312 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215

Get Texas BBQ at 2M Smokehouse

You could recognize 2M Smokehouse from plenty of "best of Texas barbecue" lists. Fittingly, make sure to arrive early on weekends, or risk getting caught in a long line. The menu features classic Texas barbecue staples, such as brisket and smoked turkey, along with dishes punctuated with Tex-Mex flair, including sausage made with serrano peppers, Oaxaca cheese, and Mexican street corn.

2msmokehouse.com , 2731 S WW White Rd, San Antonio, TX 78222

Try the Award-Winning Chicken at The Jerk Shack

Chef-owner Nicola Blaque, a U.S. Army veteran-turned-chef, opened this Caribbean eatery inspired by her Jamaican heritage as well as her new Texas roots. Her chicken at The Jerk Shack is nationally renowned, no matter if you get it jerk-spiced or crispy-fried. Order the chicken by the pound, just like Texas barbecue. On the weekends, you can't miss the braised oxtails. However, the jerk wings and mac-and-cheese combo never disappoints.

thejerkshacksatx.com , 10234 TX-151 Suite 103, San Antonio, TX 78251

Grab a Traditional Mexican Pastry at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería

Mi Tierra Café y Panadería is an 80-year-old family bakery and restaurant known for offering over a dozen different kinds of pan dulce, a traditional Mexican sweet bread. Waitresses dressed in brightly colored garb serve up treats of all flavors and sizes, while the restaurant's famous floor-to-ceiling  American Dream  mural depicts inspirational people from the local community and beyond.

mitierracafe.com , 218 Produce Row, San Antonio, TX 78207

Book a Texas-Chic Room at Hotel Emma

This 1800s brewery-turned-boutique hotel is second to none in terms of Texan style and flair. Accented by the brewery’s former smokestack, Hotel Emma ’s historic brick building adds a sense of heritage to the city’s skyline and resides over the restored Pearl district. It's hard not to feel cozy in the Western-inspired leather interiors in the rooms and three food-and-beverage concepts. You'll hardly need to leave the grounds.

Stay Along the River Walk at Hotel Havana

You'll find this Cuba-inspired boutique hotel perched right along the River Walk. Hotel Havana 's building was originally built in 1914 and later renovated in 2010. It's located in close proximity to many of the city's art museums and cultural attractions, and the in-house restaurant Ocho is delightfully colorful and picture-worthy.

bunkhousehotels.com/hotel-havana , 1015 Navarro St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Relax at La Cantera Resort & Spa

For those desiring a stay out of the hustle and bustle, La Cantera Resort & Spa offers a wellness getaway on the outskirts of the city with epic Hill Country views. With spa treatments, pools, private villas, and many dining concepts (including a juice bar, fine-dining restaurant, breakfast café, and tapas spot specializing in charcuterie boards), it is a trip all its own.

lacanteraresort.com , 16641 La Cantera Parkway, San Antonio, TX 78256 USA

Get a Dose of History at the Menger Hotel

Located just steps away from the Alamo, this historic hotel is still very much a San Antonio institution. The Menger Hotel 's lobby and rooms evoke a preserved feel with plenty of nods to its Victorian-era roots—it did open in 1859 after all. Make sure to stop into The Menger Bar, where Teddy Roosevelt famously rallied the Rough Riders.

mengerhotel.com , 204 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

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Is San Antonio Worth Visiting? (Read This Before Planning Your Trip)

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If you’ve been on the fence about visiting San Antonio, TX, this guide is here to lend a helping hand and make that decision a breeze for you. We’re about to dive into all the exciting stuff this city has to offer, from its top attractions to the coolest things to do, where to find the perfect place to stay and even the best ways to get around. By the time you reach the end of this blog post, you’ll have a clear picture of whether San Antonio is the dream vacation spot you’ve been searching for.

Is San Antonio Worth Visiting In 2023?

As someone who lived in San Antonio, TX for five years, the answer to this question is… yes, San Antonio is definitely worth visiting!

With so many attractions and iconic landmarks, San Antonio is a great place to visit if you’ve never been to Texas before. You’ll get a great taste of southern hospitality and experience Mexico’s influence on Texas. Tex-Mex anyone?

This is especially true if you’re more of an urban traveler who enjoys exploring cities and having a lot to do and many places to choose from to eat. I promise you, you will not have a dull moment in this vibrant city!

Why You Should Visit San Antonio

Why should you visit San Antonio? There are many reasons to visit San Antonio but let me tell you a couple that are most important.

San Antonio offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy that’s simply irresistible. From the moment you set foot in this lively city, you’ll be greeted with a friendly smile and a sense of hospitality that makes you feel right at home. The rich history of San Antonio weaves its way through the streets, offering glimpses into the past at every turn. 

And the cultural tapestry? It’s a masterpiece. From delicious culinary delights to captivating festivals, San Antonio always has something to celebrate and savor. San Antonio is lively and perfect for the young millennial. It’s also very family-friendly and a great place to visit for the whole family.

Visiting San Antonio For The First Time

If you are visiting San Antonio for the first time, here are a few helpful tips to enhance your visit and ensure you have the best time there! By following these tips, you’ll be well-prepared to make the most of your first visit to San Antonio, ensuring an enjoyable and memorable experience in the Alamo City.

Immerse Yourself in the Local Culture: 

San Antonio is a city rich in diverse cultures and traditions. Embrace the local flavor by sampling regional cuisine, attending cultural festivals, or exploring neighborhood markets. Engage with the locals and get a taste of the unique Texan hospitality that defines San Antonio.

Beat the Heat: 

San Antonio can get quite hot, especially during the summer months. Stay hydrated by carrying a water bottle with you at all times. You can also seek refuge from the heat in air-conditioned attractions like museums or shopping malls.

Another tip is to plan outdoor activities during the cooler parts of the day, such as early morning or late afternoon. And remember to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun’s rays.

Plan Ahead and Stay Flexible: 

While having a rough itinerary is good, leave room for spontaneity and unexpected discoveries. San Antonio offers a plethora of attractions, events, and experiences. Prioritize the must-see sights and activities, but also allow yourself to be open to new opportunities that may arise during your visit. Flexibility will allow you to truly embrace the city’s dynamic nature and make the most of your time in San Antonio.

21 Best Things To Do In San Antonio

If you are going to visit San Antonio, there are things that you have to do if you want to have the best experience. I recommend you see all these places but if you are limited in time, you have to make sure you at least visit the Alamo, the River Walk, and my favorite, the Pearl.

Want to save some money AND see the top things to do in San Antonio? Get the San Antonio CityPASS! With the CityPASS you pay one price and can choose four attractions to visit! This will not only save you money but also save you time since you won’t have to stand in line to purchase tickets!

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• The Alamo : A historic landmark in San Antonio, Texas, that holds a significant place in American history. It was the site of a legendary battle during the Texas Revolution, where a small group of defenders bravely stood their ground against a much larger Mexican army. Today, the Alamo stands as a symbol of courage and resilience, attracting visitors from around the world who come to learn about this pivotal moment in Texas’ fight for independence. The Alamo is a MUST-SEE when visiting San Antonio.
• River Walk : An enchanting pedestrian pathway winds along the banks of the San Antonio River, lined with charming shops, restaurants, and lush greenery. Another MUST-SEE in San Antonio.
• San Antonio Missions National Historical Park & Mission Trail : This UNESCO World Heritage Site showcases a collection of beautifully preserved Spanish colonial missions, offering a glimpse into the rich traditions and architectural marvels of the past, all while immersing visitors in the serene beauty of the Texas landscape.

• The Pearl : Once a historic brewery complex, it has been transformed into a dynamic neighborhood filled with hip restaurants, stylish boutiques, artisanal markets, and cultural events. Don’t miss their weekend Farmer’s Market!
• San Fernando Cathedral : This is the oldest, continuously functioning religious community in the State of Texas. Visit it at night to experience The Saga light show projected on the San Fernando Cathedral.
• Tower of the Americas : Offering breathtaking panoramic views of the city from its observation deck, it is a must-visit attraction for those seeking a bird’s-eye perspective and a memorable experience high above the vibrant streets of San Antonio.
• Hemisphere Park : Located at the base of the Tower of the Americas, surround yourself with lush green spaces, beautiful fountains, and a large playground for kids of all ages.

• La Villita Historic Village : With its preserved 18th-century architecture, artisan shops, and events, La Villita provides a charming atmosphere where visitors can immerse themselves in the city’s rich heritage and experience the vibrant arts community that thrives within its picturesque streets.
• Market Square : Also known as El Mercado, it is a vibrant and bustling hub of Mexican culture in the heart of San Antonio. With its lively atmosphere, colorful shops, and mouthwatering food, Market Square is a place where visitors can explore Mexican traditions, browse unique crafts, and savor authentic Tex-Mex cuisine.
• Japanese Tea Garden : A serene and picturesque escape where visitors can wander through lush gardens, tranquil ponds, and intricately designed pathways. Visit the iconic pagoda, koi fish, and beautiful flora.
• San Antonio Botanical Garden : With 38 acres of serene beauty, it beckons guests to explore its living museum, showcasing a rich tapestry of native and imported plant life. Here you can appreciate, learn from, and simply enjoy the vibrant and diverse botanical wonders that grace its grounds.

• Wittie Museum : ​​A captivating destination that combines science, nature, and culture to offer an enriching experience for visitors of all ages. With its interactive exhibits, engaging programs, and fascinating collections, the Witte Museum provides a dynamic exploration of Texas history, wildlife, and the world around us.
• McNay Art Museum : Housed in a magnificent Spanish Colonial Revival mansion, the museum offers a captivating journey through artistic masterpieces, stunning exhibitions, and serene sculpture gardens, providing a delightful experience for art enthusiasts and visitors alike.
• San Antonio Museum of Art : From ancient Egyptian artifacts to European masterpieces and contemporary works, this museum offers a captivating exploration of human creativity and artistic expression in the heart of San Antonio.
• San Antonio Zoo : With its diverse array of wildlife, engaging exhibits, and interactive experiences, the zoo provides a thrilling and educational adventure that delights both children and adults alike.
• King William Historic District : A charming neighborhood filled with beautifully restored historic homes and tree-lined streets. Be sure to grab breakfast at The Guenther House.

• Majestic Theatre : With its ornate decor, grandeur, and world-class performances, this historic theater offers a truly majestic experience. I’ve watched many Broadway and symphony concerts here! My favorite were Wicked and a symphony playing the music to Harry Potter as the movie played on the screen, so cool!
• Blue Star Arts Complex : A vibrant and dynamic hub for contemporary art, creativity, and cultural events. With its eclectic mix of art galleries, studios, shops, and lively performances, this complex offers a thriving space where artists and enthusiasts come together to celebrate and experience the cutting-edge art scene.
• Six Flags Fiesta Texas : From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters to family-friendly attractions and water rides, this exhilarating amusement park promises thrilling rides, live entertainment, and endless excitement for visitors of all ages.
• SeaWorld : Visitors can dive into a world of aquatic wonder, where they can marvel at incredible marine life, learn about conservation efforts, and create unforgettable memories with thrilling rides, up-close animal encounters, and interactive experiences.
• AT&T Center : Be sure to check out the event schedule at this popular venue. From watching the Spurs, attending a concert, or experiencing the San Antonio Rodeo , there is always something happening!

What Is San Antonio Known For?

San Antonio, TX, is renowned for its rich history, vibrant culture, and warm Texan hospitality. This captivating city is best known for several iconic landmarks, including the historic Alamo, a symbol of Texas’ fight for independence. San Antonio is also famous for its enchanting River Walk, a picturesque pedestrian path lined with shops, restaurants, and scenic waterways. The city’s diverse cultural heritage is showcased through vibrant festivals, such as Fiesta San Antonio, which celebrates the unique fusion of Mexican, Texan, and other cultural traditions. San Antonio is further distinguished by its delicious Tex-Mex cuisine, blending mouthwatering flavors and spices. Overall, San Antonio’s blend of history, culture, and culinary delights creates an irresistible charm that attracts visitors from around the world.

Best Time To Visit San Antonio

The best time to visit San Antonio, TX, largely depends on your preferences and what you plan to do during your visit. Generally, the spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) seasons offer pleasant weather with mild temperatures, making it a popular time to explore the city. The springtime brings blooming flowers and is a great time to enjoy outdoor activities. Fall offers comfortable temperatures and lower tourist crowds, allowing for a more relaxed experience.

My favorite time to visit is early winter, during the holidays, when the River Walk is adorned with Christmas lights. It is truly a sight to see! However, San Antonio gets very busy during this time as well.

How Many Days In San Antonio Is Enough?

Deciding how many days in San Antonio is enough depends on what you want to do. While I highly recommend doing everything I mentioned in my things to do list above, I know that list is extensive and cannot be completed in a day.

However, you can do a lot on a weekend, so I recommend spending 2-3 days in San Antonio. This will allow you to see all the most famous landmarks, eat some delicious Tex-Mex food, and give you the urge to come back and see more of what San Antonio has to offer!

San Antonio Weather

San Antonio experiences hot and humid summers, especially from June to August, with temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C). If you don’t mind the heat and want to take advantage of water activities or indoor attractions, summer can still be an enjoyable time to visit.

Winter (December to February) in San Antonio is relatively mild, with temperatures ranging from the 40s°F (4-9°C) to the 60s°F (15-20°C). It can occasionally get chilly, but it’s generally a pleasant season for exploring outdoor attractions without the crowds.

Where To Stay In San Antonio

In a big city like San Antonio, there are plenty of places to stay. You will find many options based on what area you want to stay in and your budget.

Below are three places I recommend you stay at and how they would fit your travel needs!

Downtown – Omni La Mansion del Rio

If you want to be right in the heart of downtown, with easy access to the River Walk and only 5 minutes from the Alamo, then you will want to stay at the Omni La Mansion del Rio!

This luxury, 4-star hotel is pet friendly, features a tropical courtyard with an outdoor pool, and has an on-site restaurant, Las Canarias.

🏨 Stay right on the River Walk!

Away From Downtown – La Cantera Resort & Spa

If you are not looking to stay downtown and prefer a quieter location, then La Cantera Resort & Spa is the perfect hotel for you!

It is just across the street from the popular shopping center, Shops at La Cantera, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Downtown and the River Walk are only 20 minutes away.

At La Cantera Resort & Spa, you can find four outdoor swimming pools, one being adults-only! There is also an on-site golf course and many spa services to choose from! Supervised play is available for children ages 4 to 12 at the La Cantera Hill Country Resort & Spa Kid’s Club.

🏨 book your stay away from the hustle and bustle of downtown !

JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa

If you are looking for a hotel that has it all, then you need to consider the JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort & Spa.

This hotel has seven restaurants, including a Starbucks and a specialty cocktail bar.

Guests can enjoy tennis courts, fitness centers, a golf course, an on-site water park featuring water slides, and a lazy river. Adults can relax at the spa, which features a private swimming pool. The children’s club features daily activities and child care.

🏨 Fun hotel for the whole family!

How To Get Around Antonio

San Antonio is a large city with its landmarks and attractions spread out around town. 

If you are staying downtown, the best way to get around is by foot. There are so many attractions and things to do downtown that you don’t need to leave the area to have fun!

Uber is also readily available, however, on weekends, holidays, or when big events are in town, Uber’s tend to take longer to get and prices skyrocket! Be ready to pay up or wait for the surge to go down.

In my opinion, the best way to see San Antonio is by car . This will give you the freedom to venture out and do as much as you want whenever you want!

🚗 BOOK YOUR RENTAL CAR NOW

Conclusion: Is Antonio Worth Visiting?

In conclusion, San Antonio, TX, is absolutely worth a visit. From its rich history and cultural heritage to its diverse attractions and vibrant neighborhoods, the city offers every traveler a delightful blend of experiences. Whether you’re exploring iconic landmarks like the Alamo, strolling along the enchanting River Walk, immersing yourself in the local arts and culinary scene, or enjoying the natural beauty of its parks and gardens, San Antonio has something to offer everyone. With its warm Texan hospitality and friendly atmosphere, a trip to San Antonio is sure to leave you with cherished memories and a desire to return.

Is San Antonio safe?

The short answer is yes. But like any large city, there are areas that you should avoid. Be a responsible traveler and always be aware of your surroundings.

Is San Antonio River Walk worth visiting?

Yes! The San Antonio River Walk is one of the most iconic landmarks in Texas and a must see when visiting! There are shops, restaurants, bars and attractions making this a great place for the whole family.

Is downtown San Antonio safe?

Like any big city, certain areas of the downtown are not safe. Stay in the tourist areas and don’t venture out late at night.

Do you need a car in San Antonio?

While a car is not necessary to have a car to enjoy all the landmarks and attractions in San Antonio, I recommend renting a car to make it easier for you to get around and see more of this beautiful city!

How far is River Walk from the San Antonio airport?

The San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is about 8 miles and 12 minutes from downtown. Be sure to allow time for traffic when traveling to and from the airport.

Mayra Herrera is the founder of Small Town Runaway. She has worked as a travel blogger since 2017, writing about different locations she has lived in or visited. On STR she talks about personal experience and gives honest reviews. Mayra's unique experiences and in-depth knowledge make her an invaluable resource for fellow travel enthusiasts.

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Home » North America » San Antonio

11 BEST Places to Visit in San Antonio (2024)

A city steeped in colonial history; San Antonio should be on the itinerary of any traveller heading to Texas. Most famously the site of the Alamo battle, where Texas gained independence from Mexico, it’s a history buff’s dream. There’s plenty for those who aren’t so interested in the history side though! Think a great restaurant and bar scene, and a number of fascinating museums too. If all that’s not enough, there are plenty of green spaces and outdoor attractions should you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the city.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at 11 of the best places to visit in San Antonio. They’ve been carefully selected especially for you so that you can really make the most of your trip to the city! But first, let’s have a look at the best places to stay in San Antonio.

Need a place quick? Here’s the best neighbourhood in San Antonio:

These are the best places to visit in san antonio, faq on the best places to visit in san antonio.

Bursting with life and colour, the Riverwalk is a lively neighbourhood day and night. Whether you head for a stroll along the waterways, pop over to the famous Alamo, or opt for a rowdy night on the town, you won’t have to look very far for something to do in San Antonio’s Riverwalk neighbourhood.

• Admire the decoration and the architecture of the ornate Majestic Theatre.
• Have your mind blown at the Guinness World Records Museum.
• Take in the panoramic views from the Tower of the Americas.

There is immeasurably more to San Antonio than meets the eye meaning that choosing the best neighbourhood to stay in can be overwhelming. Be sure to check out the best places to stay in San Antonio first, according to what’s closest to the attractions you’d like to see first!

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#1 – The Alamo – Possibly one of the most important places in San Antonio

• Site of the battle where Texas gained independence from Mexico
• Not only one of the most famous landmarks in San Antonio but the whole of Texas!
• See artefacts belonging to Davy Crockett and James Bowie

Why it’s awesome: This one has to be at the top of a San Antonio itinerary. History buffs will undoubtedly love it, but anyone can enjoy learning about the past of the Alamo. It was here in 1836 that the Mexican president staged a 13-day siege which was the beginning of Texas’ struggle for independence. As it’s a San Antonio must-see, it’s best to get there early in the morning or in the late evening, otherwise, you’ll be swamped with crowds!

What to do there: You can visit the Alamo under your own steam, but if you really want to learn more about this fascinating place, consider taking a guided tour. An expert guide will give you the full story of the colonial church. If you choose not to take a tour, you’ll be glad to know that it’s free to enter so you’ll have more money to splurge on some other cool activities on this list! If you don’t take the tour, then you can always pop into the museum and the research library to find out more!

#2 – San Antonio Missions National Park – One of San Antonio’s coolest historical sites

• Free tours of some of the most important colonial churches in Texas
• Don’t miss the frescoes at Mission Concepción – they’re beautiful!
• A San Antonio must-see for history buffs

Why it’s awesome: Missions National Park is one of the most important historical sites in Texas, and it’s another one that’s free to visit. Brush up on your colonial history in these spectacular 18th-century churches, four of which dotted along the San Antonio River. The missions are a symbol of the success of spreading Catholicism through the southwestern United States and into Mexico. Not only are there churches in the Missions National Park, but you’ll see remains of other buildings too. Think granaries, workshops, and watermills!

What to do there: Each mission is located around 3 miles from each other, so it’s a good idea to take a guided tour, where you’ll learn about how the friars of the missions lived peacefully alongside Native Americans. You could set aside an entire day to explore the area under your own steam. If you wish to do that, there are plenty of trails between them suitable for both hiking and biking. Spend some time at each mission, as their all unique. Romanesque arches are the top sight at San Juan, while the frescoes at Concepción are jaw-dropping!

With a San Antonio City Pass , you can experience the best of San Antonio at the CHEAPEST prices. Discounts, attractions, tickets, and even public transport are all standards in any good city pass – be sure invest now and save them $$$ when you arrive!

#3 – Bracken Cave

• Visit at dusk
• Over 20 million bats call this place home!
• One of the best places in San Antonio for nature lovers!

Why it’s awesome: It may seem like there’s not a lot to do in San Antonio if we’re having a bat cave so high on our list, but this one is pretty special. Every summer, between March and October, 20 million bats roost in this cave. That doesn’t just make it the largest bat colony in the world, but one of the largest concentration of mammals to be found anywhere on earth! So, get down here at dusk at witness the incredible natural event of all these tiny mammals flying out to hunt. It’s a magical experience!

What to do there: It’s quite a beautiful natural setting, so while you’re waiting for the bats to come out at dusk, admire the surrounding landscape. You’re bound to be spellbound when the bats do actually come out, so that will certainly make up for any boredom you feel during your wait! Unfortunately, the bat colony is under threat due to a building development opposite. So, heading there is a good idea as it may not be the same in a few years’ time.

#4 – San Antonio River Walk – A must visit place on the weekend in San Antonio

• Connects major SA attractions like the Museum of Art and Brackenridge Park
• One of the most visited attractions in San Antonio
• Also home to some of the best places to eat in San Antonio

Why it’s awesome: Many people say that there’s no better way to see San Antonio than taking the Paseo del Río. If you want to do the whole walk, it’s 15 miles long but most people just stick to the part which goes through the city centre. Flanking the walk, you’ll find great restaurants and cafes to duck into if the weather gets too hot. Enjoy some traditional tex-mex food or a coffee under brightly coloured umbrellas! If you’re visiting in January, you’re in luck as you can enjoy the River Mud Walk Festival and Parade, where the river is drained, and the bed is used for celebrating!

What to do there: A leisurely stroll along the river is our number one recommendation for the River Walk, unsurprisingly! However, if you find it too crowded or you want to properly relax, take a boat cruise. Admiring the promenade from the water shows another side to this cool area. If a boat cruise is too expensive, there’s also a river taxi which makes regular stops and won’t be as heavy on the wallet!

#5 – Historic Market Square – A great place in San Antonio if you love to shop!

• Visit the largest Mexican market in the United States
• Pick up some cool souvenirs for friends and family
• One of the most famous places in San Antonio

Why it’s awesome: If you think about it, there’s no way the largest Mexican market in the United States couldn’t be awesome! Historic market square is set over 3 blocks in the centre of town and has everything you could possibly want to fill any extra space in your backpack! Brightly coloured clothes, handcrafted souvenirs, and a great atmosphere all await you at this cool spot. It’s a feast for the senses too, Mexican spices, delicious food, and the sound of Mariachi are all par for the course too!

What to do there: Buying a souvenir or two is a must at the Mexican market. However, window shopping is just as fun as you never know what to expect. The 100+ stores in Historic Market Square have been passed from generation to generation, so it’s a great place to chat to locals and find out more about their lives too! And what else do you think of when it comes to Mexico? That’s right, food! Happily, there are plenty of spots to get a taco or an enchilada here!

#6 – HemisFair Park and the Tower of the Americas

• Get jaw-dropping views of the Alamo City
• One of the most recognisable landmarks in San Antonio
• Located in HemisFair Park

Why it’s awesome: If you want to get a panoramic view of the Alamo City, there’s nowhere better to do that than here. The Tower of the Americas stands 750 feet above HemisFair Park in downtown San Antonio, and the observation deck provides spectacular views of the skyline and beyond! After visiting the tower, you can enjoy more activities in HemisFair Park. It’s here that you’ll find the Texan Institute of Cultures and some pretty fountains. You’re in luck if you’re travelling with kids too, as there’s a playground!

What to do there: If you’re not afraid of heights, then don’t miss heading up the 750 feet Tower of the Americas. It’s definitely the best place from which to explore San Antonio from above! You may even be able to spot your downtown Airbnb . There are regular events in HemisFair Park too. These include things like Art in the Park and Story Time. You could definitely spend a few hours relaxing here, and if you’re travelling with kids they’re sure to be quite content with all the cool stuff on offer too!

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#7 – Natural Bridge Caverns

• Explore the biggest commercial cave system in Texas
• Take an underground lantern-lit tour
• Have a go at zip lining or the underground rope course!

Why it’s awesome: The Natural Bridge Caverns are one of the most popular attractions in San Antonio for locals and tourists alike. And it’s not hard to see why! The name comes from a huge limestone arch that spans the entrance to the caverns – it’s almost 60 feet long! The bridge is suspended as a sinkhole collapsed beneath it, but don’t worry, it’s all stable now. The commercial cave system is made of two levels – one above ground and one below. Above the ground, you can enjoy shopping and dining, while below ground is where the real fun is!

What to do there: There are plenty of choices. However, you can shop and dine in many parts of San Antonio, but you can’t do a Subterranean cave tour everywhere. So, we’d make that the first thing on your list! By the light of lanterns, wander through the caves and explore the hidden passages. Don’t worry, your guide will know the way back! There’s also ziplining, a rope course, and gem mining above ground, so if you have the time, these aren’t a bad shout either!

#8 – Brackenridge Park – One of the most incredible free things to do in San Antonio

• The perfect place to escape from the hustle and bustle of the city
• Take a leisurely stroll along the scenic walkways
• Try the Japanese Tea Garden for a truly relaxing spot

Why it’s awesome: Brackenridge Park is the city’s biggest park and a perfect antidote to the busy River Walk. It’s set across 343 acres and is home to a number of other attractions. These include the San Antonio Zoo, Botanical Gardens, and Japanese Tea Gardens to name just a few. If you want to just soak up the sun, there are plenty of places to throw down a blanket and catch some shut-eye or enjoy a book too.

What to do there: For sheer variation of activities on offer, Brackenridge Park is one of the best places to visit in San Antonio. If you want to keep your workout regime going when you’re on vacation, then why not dress down and take advantage of the park’s jogging trails. There’s an athletics track too and a golf course if you’re looking for more intensive activity… okay, maybe golf isn’t THAT intense! The park is also home to the zoo and the Witte Museum, so plenty of spots to learn about natural history too!

#9 – The Quadrangle – A nice quiet place to see in San Antonio

• Visit the oldest building in the Fort Sam Houston neighbourhood
• A free and open wildlife garden
• Easily one of the most peaceful landmarks in San Antonio

Why it’s awesome: The Quadrangle has a lot going for it. Not only is it the oldest building in the Fort Sam Houston neighbourhood, but deer, peacock, and rabbits freely wander around. Legend has it that the animals were brought here in 1886 to make the Apache leader Geronimo more comfortable during his imprisonment. There are other stories too, but we’ll probably never know the actual reason! You can admire the Quadrangle’s clock tower too, although you’ll need superhuman eyesight to read the plaque fixed to the top!

What to do there: This is the perfect place to spend a morning or afternoon just disconnecting from everyday life. Even vacations can end up stressful, what with all the planning and searching for the best places to eat and drink, but you’ll be able to forget all of that here. The animals are tame, meaning that you can occasionally pet and feed them, which is a lovely experience! Incredibly, among all this peace and quiet, Fort Sam Houston, which the Quadrangle is part of, is an active US military base!

#10 – The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum

• See what happens when you accept animal pelts and heads as payment for drinks!
• Check out the museum’s unusual taxidermy
• One of the most unusual things to do in San Antonio

Why it’s awesome: If you’re into unusual taxidermy and bizarre history, then the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum should be at the top of your San Antonio itinerary. This curiosity is exactly what happens when you decide that deer and cougar heads are an adequate substitute for actual money when selling drinks! The original owner was a skilled furniture maker so it’s not only the animals on the wall that are unusual and interesting. It may be cool, but this is one to avoid if you’re a vegan!

What to do there: Have a drink in a traditional Texan saloon with a twist! Admire the rattlesnake rattle folk art (made by the original designer’s wife) and see the furniture that was coveted by Kaiser Wilhelm. When you’ve finished your drinks, head into the museum. It’s here that you’ll find some of the really odd stuff! There’s a ‘mermaid’ made up of equal parts monkey and fish, and a manboon! There’s some seriously impressive real stuff too, such as the 10,000 year old prehistoric elk.

#11 – Six Flags Fiesta Texas – Easily one of the most fun places to checkout in San Antonio

• A great day trip 17 miles out of the city
• Over 50 rides and attractions
• Head to the water park for relief on a hot summer’s day!

Why it’s awesome: Let’s end on the perfect place that’s fun for all the family! Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a safe bet no matter who you’re travelling with, as there are so many things to do here. Did adrenaline fuel thrill rides? Check. A water park to cool off? Check. Shopping and restaurants for when you need a break from all the fun? Check that too! It’s a great place to spend a day, although that might not even be enough!

What to do there: If you’re travelling with young kids, then there are lots of rides to keep them entertained which are fun, but not scary and dangerous. If you’ve got teenagers, they’ll love the thrill rides. The best spot is the water park though. It can get so hot in the Texas sun that being able to cool off in the lazy river or shoot down a gigantic slide is a perfect tonic. Round off the perfect day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas with the nightly fireworks show!

Get insured for your trip to San Antonio!

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

Click the button below to learn more about SafetyWing’s setup or read our insider review for the full tasty scoop.

Find out what people want to know about the best places to visit in San Antonio

What does San Antonio have to offer?

To find out the best places to visit in San Antonio today, check out GetYourGuide ! Anything that’s on offer today will be listed there. For even more options, have a look at Airbnb experiences too.

Which places to visit in San Antonio are free?

To save a buck or two, visit these free places in San Antonio: – The Alamo – San Antonio Missions National Park – San Antonio River Walk

Which are the best places in Downtown San Antonio?

Check out these cool places to visit in Downtown San Antonio: – HemisFair Park and the Tower of the Americas – Historic Market Square – San Antonio River Walk

What are the most unique places to visit in San Antonio?

Unique places can be hard to find in San Antonio, but we’ve made the search a lot easier for you: – Bracken Cave – Natural Bridge Caverns – Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Final Thoughts

So, that concludes our list of the best places to visit in San Antonio. Although the Alamo is a super cool place to visit, we hope that you’ve seen that there’s more to the city than just that! We also hope that you have a better idea of the best places to stay in San Antonio too!

Whatever you end up doing, we’re pretty sure that you’re bored. Our list offers a great variation of stuff to add to your San Antonio itinerary, from quirky and unusual museums to peaceful gardens, to great places to shop. You’ll even find some of the best places to eat in San Antonio hidden away in a couple of our recommendations!

Not only will you know all about the best places to visit in San Antonio, but you’ll also be able to experience the city like a local, as there are a couple of spots on here that are loved by locals just as much (if not more) than by tourists. All that’s left is for us to wish you a great vacation in San Antonio!

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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The 15 Best Things To Do in San Antonio, Texas

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A vibrant metropolis nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, San Antonio is one of the best places in the state to visit. Rich with culture and history, there’s always plenty to see and do around town. From restaurants and shops to theme parks and historic landmarks, you’re bound to love this one-of-a-kind Texas city!

From the iconic Alamo and Spanish missions at Mission Historical Park to the Witte Museum, many of the city’s top attractions have deep roots in Texan and Mexican culture and history. There’s also a variety of outdoor activities to enjoy. From taking a scenic boat ride around the River Walk to strolling through the San Antonio Botanical Gardens, the options are endless.

Home to multiple theme parks and a zoo, San Antonio is one of the most family-friendly destinations in the state. Plus, San Antonio has top-notch hotels and accommodation options conveniently located near the city’s biggest attractions.

With so much to see and do in San Antonio, it can be hard to know where to begin. So we’ve put together this list of the very best things to do in San Antonio for you. Stick to these exciting and fun San Antonio bucket list recommendations, and you’re sure to have a great time exploring this fascinating part of the Lone Star State!

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best Things To Do in San Antonio, Texas

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 cool and unique things to do in San Antonio

1. shop, eat, and take a boat ride at the river walk.

Winding through the heart of the city is the San Antonio River and the 15-mile-long pedestrian promenade known as the River Walk . Home to various shops, restaurants, bars, and hotels, it’s a major hub for the city and one of the most popular spots in San Antonio. 

Meander through the walkways on foot, follow the curves and bends of the river, cross over cobblestone bridges, and stroll through tunnels. Along the way, you can see unique architecture, shop for local crafts from vendor carts or at the Shops at Rivercenter mall, and don’t forget to stop by the open-air Arneson River Theater to take in a live show! 

Dine al fresco at one of the many restaurants along the River Walk, then hop on a slow-moving riverboat to take a tour of the waterway. Sit back and enjoy a narrated tour from one of Go Rio’s guides as you sail past some of the most historic sites in the city. For a real treat, take a sunset dinner cruise!

Visit during the winter holiday season to see thousands of lights hung from the branches of massive cypress trees along the waterway. Taking a boat tour down the River Walk or simply walking through the area during that time of year is a truly magical experience. 

Book a Scenic Tour and River Walk Cruise

2. Take in Stunning Views from the Tower of the Americas

Located in HemisFair park, the 750-foot Tower of the Americas structure overlooks the city and the rolling hills that surround it. Designed by San Antonio architect O’Neil Ford, the structure was built especially for the 1968 World’s Fair. 

Take an elevator ride up to the Tower’s observation deck, where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views. Hung around the observation floor are photos to help you identify landmarks around the city, as well as historic photographs with explanations about their significance. 

Included in the price of your ticket to the observation deck is a 4D theater experience called The Skies Over Texas . During the film, you’ll take a tour of Texas and see everything from a shuttle launch to a Friday night football game. 

Have dinner in the award-winning Chart House restaurant’s rotating dining room. Located right in the tower, the restaurant serves up fresh fish, lobster, steak, and more. The view from the restaurant is truly spectacular on a clear day, but the Hill Country sunset followed by the glow of city lights is a sight to behold from that high up in the evening! 

3. Remember the Alamo

Arguably the most historic landmark in the Lone Star State, The Alamo is one of the best things to see in San Antonio. The iconic structure was the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo during the war for Texas’ independence from Mexico. 

Though the battle that took place here is estimated to have lasted only about 20 minutes, the small force who barricaded themselves in before succumbing to 3,000 Mexican Army troops was made up of legendary figures like James Bowie and Davy Crockett. After the fall of the mission, the phrase “Remember the Alamo!” was a battle cry for soldiers fighting for Texas’ independence. 

Originally part of a Spanish mission station that was established in San Antonio in 1718, the site isn’t large. In fact, many visitors are surprised by how small the physical building is, as it’s such a well-known landmark. 

Inside, explore a museum and library filled with lots of historical texts, artifacts from the war, and more. Tours are also available if you want to take a deeper look at what happened during the Battle of the Alamo. 

4. Marvel at Marine Life at Sea World

Part theme park, part waterpark, and part oceanarium, Sea World is one of the most exciting places to visit in San Antonio. From thrilling rides to amazing animal encounters, there’s no shortage of things to see and do at the 250-acre park. 

Experience sea turtles up-close-and-personal at Turtle Reef, watch sea lions perform tricks during a fun show, meet expert trainers and the animals they care for at Animal Connections, celebrate life under the sea with the popular One Ocean show, and definitely don’t miss the interactive orca presentation. Be sure to sit in the splash zones during the shows if you want to cool off!

If you’re looking for thrills, Sea World has plenty of exciting roller coasters like the 15-story Steel Eel hypercoaster and the Texas Stingray, the tallest and fastest wooden roller coaster in Texas. There are plenty of dining options for snacks and meals throughout the park, so you don’t have to leave if you get hungry.

If you’re visiting during the warmer months, head to Aquatica, Sea World’s on-site water park. Relax in a private cabana on a manmade white sand beach, slip and slide down towering waterslides, splash in a giant wave pool, or let your kids run amok through kid-friendly splash zones! 

5. Shop for Artisan Goods at Market Square

To really get a feel for the city’s culture, head to Market Square . Also called El Mercado, this bustling outdoor marketplace is filled with vendors selling folksy jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more. 

Here, you’ll find all sorts of artisan goods, including many styles of authentic Mexican clothing like ponchos and shoes. It’s one of the best places in San Antonio to shop for souvenirs and trinkets made by local craftsmen. Listen to local musicians and mariachi bands as they stroll through the area and entertain the crowds. 

When you’ve shopped enough to work up an appetite, head to Mi Tierra Cafe and Bakery to enjoy authentic Mexican bakery items from their bakery counter. The festive restaurant is filled with decorative lights, flags, and statues and has some of the best margaritas in the city! 

Also near Market Square is Schilo’s , the oldest restaurant in San Antonio. This is a great choice if you want to dine on Southern fare like fried chicken and peach cobbler. 

6. Ride Thrilling Rides at Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Six Flags Fiesta Texas is the only place in the city where you can ride high-speed roller coasters, see Broadway-style shows, and enjoy stunning views of the Texas Hill Country. It’s no wonder the theme park is one of the top things to do in San Antonio for families!

The park is built on the grounds of an old rock quarry, and passing through the park’s gates will make you feel like you’re inside of a canyon with gorgeous rock walls surrounding the property. With so much to see and do, it’s easy to spend an entire day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. 

From thrill rides like the Superman Krypton Coaster to family-friendly group rides like Bugs’ White Water Rapids, there are plenty of exciting rides to choose from here. When you need a break from riding rides, sit back and relax as you enjoy exciting live shows in one of four outdoor theaters around the park. Or, cool off in the Texas-shaped wave pool at Hurricane Harbor, open seasonally. 

Meet and greet characters from the Looney Tunes franchise, shop for DC superhero gear, and eat tasty carnival-style treats like funnel cake and nachos. Don’t miss the spectacular fireworks show that happens as the park closes each night.

Buy a Flexible Date Ticket

7. See the Animals at the San Antonio Zoo

One of the most popular things to do in San Antonio is to spend a day at the San Antonio Zoo . Explore the 35 vast acres of the zoo, home to more than 3,500 animals, including hippos, kangaroos, and Komodo dragons.

The zoo is separated into various animal habitats, so it’s easy to plan your day according to which ones you’d like to see. Head to Big Cat Valley to see lion cubs, The Savanna to see zebras, or Amphibia to view frogs, toads, and salamanders. 

Bears and hyenas can be found at The Grottos, an array of fresh and saltwater marine life is housed in Friedrich Aquarium, and Big Lake is home to whooping cranes, pelicans, and ducks.

In the afternoon, don’t miss the giraffe feeding time where you can hand-feed lettuce leaves to the towering animals. Purchase a cup of nectar at Lory Landing and watch lorikeets hover near you as they sip! 

Take a behind-the-scenes tour to learn all about how the zoo staff cares for the animals. Once you’ve seen all the animals, hop on the carousel and go for a ride or board the San Antonio Zoo train to explore the park by rail. 

8. Catch a Spurs Game at AT&T Center

Head to AT&T Center , home of the San Antonio Spurs, to catch a rousing game of basketball. One of the premier entertainment venues in Texas, the arena also hosts concerts, wrestling matches, comedy shows, and the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. 

Each Spurs game is an action-packed event, perfect for basketball fans who want to cheer on the home team. Watch talented entertainers in the Spurs Hype Squad interact with the crowd during on-court contests, put on incredible dance performances, and spread energy throughout the stadium. Head to The Fan Shop located on the Plaza Level of the arena, where you can buy officially licensed Spurs gear and memorabilia like jerseys and hats.

While any of the venue’s 18,581 seats will give you a great view of the action, premium seating in luxurious private boxes and suites offers an upscale sports-going  experience. Root for the home team from a spectacular terrace suite or ledge box where you can enjoy all-inclusive beverage service and top-tier cuisine from the Terrace Restaurant. 

Not a basketball fan? Head to the Alamodome to watch the University of Texas at San Antonio’s football team play or cheer on the San Antonio FC professional soccer team at Toyota Field . 

9. Explore the San Antonio Botanical Gardens

The San Antonio Botanical Gardens is one of the most tranquil places in San Antonio. It’s the perfect spot to enjoy a serene stroll through winding trails on the northeast side of the city.

Colorful plants and flowers fill the 38-acre space, so it’s a beautiful outdoor area to explore and connect with nature. Enjoy the Mays Family Display Garden, home to a variety of native plants, then head to the 2.5-acre Family Adventure Garden. Families will love rolling down Tumble Hill, making their way through Muhly Maze, and exploring No Name Creek!

Enter the Lucille Halsell Conservatory, and you’ll be transported to a tropical paradise within the walls of the humid greenhouse-style buildings. Inside of the 90,000-square foot complex, you’ll find plants from across the globe. 

There are various events held at the gardens throughout the year, so be sure to check their calendar before you go to see what’s going on during your visit. Pack a picnic and enjoy the scenic outdoor park for a few hours or the whole day!

10. See the San Fernando Cathedral Light Show

To experience where stunning architecture meets rich history in San Antonio, head to the San Fernando Cathedral . Built in 1873, it’s one of the oldest cathedrals in the United States! 

Located on Main Plaza, the Roman Catholic church is the burial site for several of the fallen soldiers of The Alamo. It’s a wonderful place to visit if you want to immerse yourself in the city’s culture.

There’s a free light show that happens outside of the San Fernando Cathedral every night from Tuesday through Sunday. The show features a 24-minute video art installation featuring narration and music set to lights. Explore the interior of the cathedral, and then head outside to catch a show at 9 pm, 9:30 pm, or 10 pm.

Located just a short walk from The Alamo and the River Walk, this is a great place to end a day exploring San Antonio.

11. Immerse Yourself in History at the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

While The Alamo is the most well-known historical site in the city, the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is one of the top places to visit in San Antonio. Here, you can explore Mission San Juan, Mission Espada, Mission San Jose, and Mission Concepción.

When you arrive, be sure to stop by the visitor center to plan your route through the park. Then, take a self-guided tour and listen to audio stories as you explore the sites. A National Park Service site and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, there are also Ranger-led programs offered daily. 

All four of the missions here still hold regular church services within the buildings and are open to park visitors who wish to attend. Not only is the park home to four historic Spanish missions, but there’s also plenty of wildlife, plants, and natural beauty to take in as you wind through the trails between each mission.

12. Tour the Fascinating Witte Museum

With a focus on Texas heritage, natural history, and science, the Witte Museum is a great museum to explore in San Antonio. The range of artifacts featured within the walls of the Witte makes it a must-see destination!

Here, you can see a colorful collection of Texas ball gowns, experience contemporary art installations, and learn all about the beginnings of the Texas livestock industry. Head to the EcoLab to see live animals like turtles and tarantulas up close. Get hands-on in the H-E-B Body Adventure exhibit, where you’ll find four floors of activities related to health and wellness. 

The Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery is home to the first permanent dinosaur gallery in San Antonio. Travel back in time when you discover the People of the Pecos gallery and learn all about historic hunter-gatherers and life on the Texas landscape.

The museum is located in Brackenridge Park, which has plenty of trails to explore, a miniature train to ride, and a Japanese Garden where you can enjoy a picnic lunch after you tour the museum. 

13. Shop and Dine at The Pearl District

Known around town as simply The Pearl , this is one of the trendiest spots to visit in San Antonio. Here, you’ll find some of the most popular restaurants, bars, and shops in the city, all locally-owned and operated. 

Located adjacent to downtown, you can access The Pearl District from the River Walk. It’s a great spot to explore independently-owned shops like Twig Book Shop and Adelante Boutique . Take a stroll through vendor tables set up on a pedestrian-only street where local craftsmen sell handmade trinkets, jewelry, and more.

Visit on a Saturday to enjoy an open-air farmer’s market with locally sourced produce, artisan goods, and more. Then, grab a French macaron from Bakery Lorraine and have a handcrafted cocktail at Blue Box Bar .

One of three Culinary Institute of America campuses is located at The Pearl, so it’s no wonder the area is known for its tasty dining spots! All about ambiance and experience, Boiler House is a Texas grill and wine garden serving up artfully prepared local fare.

14. Marvel at Natural Bridge Caverns’ Rock Structures

Located just outside the city is one of the largest caves in Texas, Natural Bridge Caverns . Exploring the underground cavern is easily one of the most unique things to do in San Antonio. 

A basic walking tour takes a little over an hour to complete. Along the way, you’ll listen to guides narrate all of the incredible rock formations found within the cave. There are several more adventurous tours to choose from, including one lit by lantern light and one that crawls through hidden passages. 

After your cave tour, take to the skies and try your hand at the Canopy Challenge, where you’ll be challenged to tackle a platform and ladders ropes course suspended 60 feet above the ground and zip across a zip line!

If you’re traveling with young kids, they can explore a smaller course designed just for them. At the cavern’s general store area, you can mine for gems and fossils or pan for fool’s gold.

When you’ve had your fill of cave-dwelling, head next door to the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch drive-through safari to gaze at over 50 types of animals from around the world as they roam freely across the plains. 

15. Attend Fiesta San Antonio

The 10-day annual event known as Fiesta San Antonio is a citywide celebration that takes place each spring. The festival commemorates the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, during which Texas gained its independence from Mexico in April 1836.

The city’s signature event has been held each year since 1891, with a yearly attendance of more than 3 million people in more than 100 different events across the city. 

The event boasts Mardi Gras-style parades and spectacles, including the infamous Battle of Flowers parade, inspired by the inaugural festivities where local women decorated carriages and bicycles with live flowers and tossed them about. For some of the best views of the festivities, head to the River Walk to watch decorative floats cruise up and down the waterway. 

Listen to live performances from Tejano musicians, mariachi bands, jazz troupes, and more in the downtown area. Attend sporting events that take place during the celebrations, exchange souvenir pins with other festivalgoers, and see the festival queen be crowned Miss Fiesta San Antonio! 

There you have it! The 15 best things to do in San Antonio. What’s your favorite thing to do in Alamo City?

Planning a trip to Texas? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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Frequently Asked Questions

Located in HemisFair park, the 750-foot Tower of the Americas structure overlooks the city and the rolling hills that surround it. Designed by San Antonio architect O’Neil Ford, the structure was built especially for the 1968 World’s Fair. Take an elevator ride up to the Tower’s observation deck, where you’ll be greeted by breathtaking panoramic views.

Arguably the most historic landmark in the Lone Star State, The Alamo is one of the best things to see in San Antonio. The iconic structure was the site of the 1836 Battle of the Alamo during the war for Texas’ independence from Mexico. Inside, explore a museum and library filled with lots of historical texts, artifacts from the war, and more.

Part theme park, part waterpark, and part oceanarium, Sea World is one of the most exciting places to visit in San Antonio. From thrilling rides to amazing animal encounters, there’s no shortage of things to see and do at the 250-acre park.

To really get a feel for the city’s culture, head to Market Square. Also called El Mercado, this bustling outdoor marketplace is filled with vendors selling folksy jewelry, pottery, paintings, and more. Here, you’ll find all sorts of artisan goods, including many styles of authentic Mexican clothing like ponchos and shoes. It’s one of the best places in San Antonio to shop for souvenirs and trinkets made by local craftsmen.

With a focus on Texas heritage, natural history, and science, the Witte Museum is a great museum to explore in San Antonio. The range of artifacts featured within the walls of the Witte makes it a must-see destination! The museum is located in Brackenridge Park, which has plenty of trails to explore, a miniature train to ride, and a Japanese Garden where you can enjoy a picnic lunch after you tour the museum.

The 10-day annual event known as Fiesta San Antonio is a citywide celebration that takes place each spring. The festival commemorates the Battle of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto, during which Texas gained its independence from Mexico in April 1836. The city’s signature event has been held each year since 1891, with a yearly attendance of more than 3 million people in more than 100 different events across the city.

About the Author:

Val grew up in Portland, Oregon but moved to Oahu on a whim back in 2013. She sold her house and all of her belongings and bought a one-way ticket. Since then she’s taken two around-the-world trips and has visited 60-ish countries while living out of a duffel bag. Val started documenting the Wandering Wheatleys travels back in 2013 as a way to update friends and family about her whereabouts and to relay humorous daily interactions. The only readers were her mom and her mother-in-law but that didn’t stop her! These days you’ll find Val dreaming up future trips, creating new travel content, managing a team of amazing travel enthusiasts, and chasing around her two adorable but naughty kids.

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The Best Of Texas: The Ultimate Travel Guide To San Antonio & Things To Do

San Antonio, Texas is a history buff's travel haven, but there's more to do than see the Alamo; the ultimate travel guide tells all.

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Best time of year to visit san antonio, what to know when visiting san antonio, best ways to get around san antonio, where to stay in san antonio, where to eat and drink in san antonio, top things to do in san antonio, how to spend a perfect day in san antonio.

San Antonio is a large Texas city with a population of nearly 1.5 million, but despite its size, it’s filled with natural beauty and so much to offer visitors — particularly those with a passion for history.

Located in south-central Texas, San Antonio is mainly known for the Alamo, an 18th-century Spanish mission and compound which had a significant role to play during the Texas Revolution, but there are plenty of other things the city has to offer the eclectic traveler.

Here is everything travelers need to know on how to spend a great trip in San Antonio with details on the best time of year to visit, places to stay, places to eat, and a plethora of things to do.

In terms of weather, the best time of year to visit San Antonio is usually during the spring (from March to May) and fall months (from September to October). In the spring, visitors can enjoy temperatures from the mid-70s to the mid-80s.

In April, travelers can also catch the city's biggest festival of the year, Fiesta San Antonio. The city really feels the heat in the summer (from June to August) with temperatures over 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

But in the fall, the intense heat and humidity ease, so It's possible to enjoy some outdoor activities in comfort with temperatures ranging from the mid-80s to the low 90s.

Related: Here's How Long You Need To See San Antonio's Japanese Tea Garden

It's also important to consider what tourists would like to experience in San Antonio when deciding when to book their trip. For instance, the big San Antonio Stock and Rodeo show is on in February and the Texas Folklore festival which celebrates Texas heritage is on in June.

San Antonio also has some popular boozy festivals like the San Antonio Beer Festival in October. All great events visitors can catch if they plan their trip right!

San Antonio is a south-central Texan city and is the second biggest after Houston. In terms of getting there, it's about a three-hour drive from Houston and an hour and a half from Austin.

It's served by a major airport, San Antonio International Airport (SAT) about eight miles north of downtown San Antonio. Flights to the city can be booked with the likes of American Airlines, Delta, Southwest, and United Airlines.

Related: 10 Best Steakhouses Worth Saddling Down For In San Antonio

San Antonio is definitely a destination for foodies, particularly those who fancy sampling some incredible Tex-Mex cuisine, but notable historical and other landmarks make up the bulk of the must-see list for this city.

In general, it’s considered a safe city for tourists. Like any large city, it does have some crime but being mindful of belongings and personal well-being is enough to ensure safety during a trip to San Antonio.

Many of the city's top attractions, such as the Alamo and the River Walk, are within walking distance of each other, making it easy to explore the touristic areas on foot.

The city has a public transportation system that includes buses and the VIA Metropolitan Transit , a light rail system. The VIA system has four lines that serve many of the city's major attractions and downtown areas.

The cost of using public transportation in San Antonio depends on the fare type and the distance of the journey.

• Single-ride fares start at $1.30 for the local bus.
• VIA also offers a number of passes for multiple trips, including a 1-day pass for $2.75, a 7-day pass for $12, and a 31-day pass for $38.
• Children under 5 years old ride for free, and children 5-11 ride for half price.

Fares can be paid with cash, a VIA goMobile ticket (which visitors can purchase through the VIA goMobile app), or a VIAtrans Card (a reloadable fare card).

Other ways to get around San Antonio include:

• Car rental : This can be a convenient option, especially if visiting attractions outside of the city is on the agenda. Just be aware that traffic can be heavy in certain parts of the city, and parking can be limited in some areas.
• Taxi or rideshare : Taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Antonio.
• Bicycle : San Antonio has a number of bike trails and bike-sharing programs, making it easy to get around the city on two wheels

San Antonio has accommodation choices and great districts and neighborhoods for visitors to the city to check out.

• Downtown : This is probably one of the most popular districts to stay in because it's within walking distance of the best attractions like the Alamo and the gorgeous River Walk. It also has great restaurants and shopping.
• Alamo Heights : Alamo Heights is a cozy neighborhood and is considered part of the Greater Metropolitan San Antonio area. It's filled with beautiful homes with tree-lined streets, and it has a lot to offer visitors in and of itself in terms of food and shopping experiences.
• North San Antonio : This neighborhood could be a great choice for families who are interested in visiting the big attractions like SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas.

There are great hotel options in San Antonio that suit every budget.

Luxury hotels in San Antonio:

St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Antonio : Located in the heart of downtown San Antonio and close to many of the city's top attractions.

• Guest rooms start at $300 per night.
• Amenities: fine dining restaurant, a rooftop bar, and pool.
• Address: 300 E Travis St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio : Located along the San Antonio River Walk and offers some spectacular views of the city.

• Rooms start at $270 per night.
• Amenities: fitness center, and outdoor pool.
• Address: 420 W Market St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States

Mid-range hotels in San Antonio:

Hyatt Place San Antonio Airport : A great location close to the airport.

• Prices start at around $140 per night.
• Amenities: free breakfast, pool, a fitness center, and a restaurant.
• Address: 7615 Jones Maltsberger Road, San Antonio, Texas, United States, 78216

Hotel Valencia Riverwalk : Another hotel located along the San Antonio River Walk.

• Rooms start at around $200 per night.
• Amenities: in-room spa services and a restaurant.
• Address: 150 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Budget hotels in San Antonio:

Motel 6 San Antonio Downtown : a wallet-friendly hotel near the most important San Antonio attractions.

• Rooms start at $50 per night.
• Amenities: outdoor pool and coin laundry.
• Address: 211 North Pecos Street, San Antonio, TX, 78207

Best Western Plus Sunset Suites-Riverwalk : This hotel is located along the San Antonio River Walk.

• Rooms start at around $80 per night.
• Amenities: fitness center, WiFi.
• Address: 1103 E Commerce Street San Antonio, Texas 78205

It’s hard to go wrong with restaurants in San Antonio, there are so many places to choose from but here are some highly rated places to check out:

Best Breakfast in San Antonio:

• The Guenther House, Pancake Joe's, The Magnolia Pancake Haus

Delicious lunch spots in San Antonio:

• The County Line, Elsewhere Garden Beer and Kitchen, Botika

Great dinner restaurants in San Antonio:

• Biga on the Banks, Silo Prime , Cured

Best coffee in San Antonio:

• Local Coffee , Merit Coffee , What's Brewing Coffee Roasters

Fun bars in San Antonio:

• The Esquire Tavern, Howl at the Moon, Bar 1919

Related: 10 Places That Have The Best Breakfast In Sunny San Antonio

Learn all about the history of the Alamo

This is definitely the big-ticket item in San Antonio. A trip to the city is not complete without heading to this historic Spanish mission to learn about the Battle of the Alamo. There's a range of free tours available, but visitors can also book private tours.

• Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205.
• Admission: Free

Take a leisurely stroll down the San Antonio River Walk

A stroll down the San Antonio River Walk in the heart of the downtown district is a particularly special experience, and it's also the perfect way to finish a day of exploring the city. The River Walk is lined with restaurants and it's just a great place to relax .

• Address: The river runs through the heart of downtown

Bring the family to the San Antonio Zoo

A zoo visit is something the whole family can enjoy and The San Antonio Zoo makes for a fantastic day out with opportunities to see some of the world's most exotic animals including gorillas and lions. It is also certified by the Association of Zoos and Aquariums.

• Address: 3903 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212
• Admission: $35.99 for adults, $31.99 for children (ages 3-11), and free for children under 3.

Related: 10 Day Trips From San Antonio Worth Taking This Summer

Visit the San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art is a great spot to visit while taking a stroll along the Riverwalk. The collection features 35,000 works of art from around the world including Ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art.

• Address: 200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215
• Admission: $20 for adults, $10 for children (ages 13-18). Children under 12 are free.

Explore the San Antonio Botanical Garden

This stunning 33-acre garden is well worth a visit. Be sure to check out the San Antonio Botanical Garden's website for upcoming events like film screenings and educational hikes, and expert talks. They even offer cooking classes!

• Address: 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209
• Admission: from $16 for adults, $13 for children (ages 3-13). Children under 3 are free.

Take a tour of the Tower of the Americas

An icon of the San Antonio skyline, the Tower of the Americas is a 750-foot tall tower that offers panoramic views of the city from its observation deck and visitors can dine at the revolving Chart House restaurant

• Address: 739 E Cesar E Chavez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205.
• Admission: $16.50 for adults, $12.00 for children (ages 4-12), and free for children under 4.

While San Antonio is a great weekend destination , it's possible to get plenty of this city covered in just 24 hours. The perfect day starts with breakfast at the Guenther House in the King William Historic District where travelers can fill up on a hearty, southern breakfast to take on some downtown exploring.

Next up, of course, it has to be a tour of the Alamo, the city’s big attraction. The Alamo is in downtown San Antonio and visitors can explore at their leisure or book a tour to get as much information about this historic location.

Spend some time exploring the San Antonio River Walk, a popular tourist attraction that runs along the San Antonio River in the heart of downtown, and nip into the San Antonio Museum of Art.

Related: 10 Things You Can Do On San Antonio's Riverwalk

Enjoy lunch at Biga on the Banks, an upscale restaurant located along the San Antonio River Walk that has some great options for those looking to sample some modern American cuisine.

Take in some sky-high views at the Observation deck in Tower of the Americas and then finish the day with dinner in the Pearl District at the ever so popular, Cured. As the name suggests, it's famous for its cured meats and artisanal cheeses.

Q: What is San Antonio Texas best known for?

San Antonio is the second-largest city in Texas and is best known as the home of the Alamo , a historic Spanish mission and compound that was the site of the Battle of the Alamo during the Texas Revolution.

It also has a beautiful walkway called the San Antonio River Walk found in its downtown area. The San Antonio calendar is dotted with incredible festivals for visitors to experience too like Fiesta San Antonio and the Texas Folklore Festival

Q: What is the best time of year to visit San Antonio Texas?

With the San Antonio climate in mind, the best time of year to visit is generally considered to be in the spring and the fall with sunshine but mild humidity and temperatures, so tourists can comfortably explore the city.

The summer months, from June to August, are the hottest with very high temperatures and high humidity, to boot, but summertime is also an ideal time for a visit to San Antonio's nearby day-trip spots .

Q: Is San Antonio Texas worth visiting?

San Antonio is a city worth visiting for anyone interested in history, culture, and good food.

While it's filled with important historical sites like the Alamo and the Missions National History Park, it's also home to interesting green spaces for nature lovers like the Botanical Garden and some great Tex-Mex restaurants like Mi Tierra or Henry's Puffy Tacos for eager foodies.

There are also free things to do to round out a vacation without going over budget.

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Texas Travel 365

15 Best Places To Visit In San Antonio (+ Unique Vacation Spots)

January 10, 2022 //  by  Texas Travel 365 //   Leave a Comment

Are you looking for the best places to visit in San Antonio. You have come to the right place. In this article we will walk you through San Antonio tourist attractions, sightseeing in San Antonio and activities in San Antonio . 

If you haven’t been on a San Antonio vacation yet you are in for a real treat. It’s a city steeped in history and manages to effortlessly combine this with modern attractions, incredible dining and some amazing outdoor space. 

Whatever you like doing San Antonio has it, from caves, to hikes to one of the most known historic sites, it makes a great place for a weekend getaway. 

This city takes its culture, history and local communities seriously celebrating the diverse population. There is a thriving downtown area , so much history and vibrancy about this city that is hard to describe.  

There are so many places to visit in San Antonio It’s often hard to know what to choose. In this list we have included a range of places to go in San Antonio that will suit most people but this list is by no mean exhaustive.

San Antonio is also a very charming and pretty city that prides itself in offering visitors a little bit of everything. We know you will love it here. 

No vacation in San Antonio is complete without a trip to the Alamo. it’s one of the best places to visit in San Antonio . The Alamo is not only a place to learn about history but a 4.2 acre complex with lots to do. 

Centrally located in the downtown area on Alamo Plaza it’s also easy to get to. Once there you will find a interactive exhibits, tours and demonstrations. You will experience and learn more about frontier life in Texas’s early days. 

It was the first mission in San Antonio founded in 1718 and served as a stop off between East Texas and Mexico.  It’s probably better known for 13 days in 1836 when 200 held the Alamo from invasion from 2,500 of General Santa Anna’s troops from Mexico. 

Today you get to experience not only the history but the Alamo gardens in the compound,  It’s simply one of the San Antonio tourist attractions you can’t miss. 

San Antonio Riverwalk

If you are looking for places to go in San Antonio at night then the Riverwalk might be perfect. A 14 mile urban waterway, Riverwalk is where it is all happening. Also called Paseo del Rio it’s a mecca of sightseeing, shopping, dining and drinking. 

The Riverwalk is also the largest urban Ecosystem in the nation. You can explore it by foot along the walkways or jump aboard a river barge to get a different perspective. 

It’s in a central downtown location with some many attractions nearby making it a great place to grab a bite to eat in between sightseeing. 

If we had to recommend one thing in San Antonio it would be this. We feel you really get the vibe of the area on the Riverwalk. It’s also just a beautiful location with so much to see do and explore. 

This is definitely one of the fun places to go in San Antonio that all ages can enjoy. Make sure to check out our list of the Best Things To Do On The San Antonio Riverwalk , complete with a guide and tips!

San Pedro Creek Culture Park

Located on the west side of downtown this park combines public art, architectural design, local craft, and historic preservation.  It’s a living and breathing space that is beautiful. 

This park is often referred to as beauty with a purpose.  It’s a space that combines the creeks natural beauty, the colourful history of the location and the identity of the communities around it. 

This is an urban space that really does have something for everyone. Art, nature and community just mix effortlessly here creating something quite special. 

This is one of the most beautiful places in San Antonio and if you can we highly recommend a visit.

The San Antonio Mission Trail 

When it comes to trails in San Antonio there are many to choose from. The most famous is the Riverwalk which is a 15 miles trail system. 

While many enjoy the Riverwalk what most people don’t know is that eight miles of the Riverwalk is the San Antonio Mission Trail. 

It’s a perfect hike that combines history with incredible views and you get to visit most of the missions in the area. The trail is also home to lots of plants, animal habitats and aquatic habitats so there is always something to see. 

And the best bit is that the trail is stroller, wheelchair and kid friendly. Dogs are allowed but must be kept on a leash.  One of the activities in San Antonio that is well worth taking part in.

Six Flags Fiesta

If you love a good theme park then San Antonio can also deliver there too. With over 18 thrill rides the Six Flags Fiesta offers plenty to get your adrenaline pumping. 

A San Antonio attractions for adults and children alike with something for all ages.

The area around here is dubbed the thrill capital of South Texas, one visit and you will be hooked. There is also plenty to do for the smaller children too. 

This makes a great family day out and is one of the best places to visit in San Antonio particular if you have teenagers.

The Tower Of The Americas

Whenever we go to a city we love to get a view of the city from a nearby mountain or vantage paint. San Antonio doesn’t really have an mountains but it does have an observation tower. 

The Tower of the Americas is at Hemisfair Park is an impressive 750 feet tall. The views are spectacular particularly if you eat in the Chart House revolving restaurant right at the top. 

There is a lot to do here other than admire the view and we highly recommend the 4D Theatre Ride. One of the fun places to go in San Antonio which everyone can enjoy.

McAllister Park

San Antonio is a city of parks and there are a lot to choose from all offering something unique and different from the next. 

McAllister Park is one of the largest with over 800 ares to explore. Located between Jones Maltsberger and Wetmore Roads it’s a great place to get away from it all for a while. 

There are over four miles of trails, several bike trails, 125 picnic units, an exercise area and of course all the amenities you could want. It’s one of the best places to visit in San Antonio if you just want to get away from the hustle and bustle of the city for a while.

Eat at Casa Rio

While there are many restaurants in the San Antonio we think a trip to Casa Rio is a must. The restaurants serves some of the best Tex Mex in the area. 

You will have seen this restaurant already, if you have seen a picture of colourful umbrellas in San Antonio changes are it was Casa Rio. 

The views from the patio are stunning, the live Mariachi band exquisite and the food is even better. 

Its also one of the oldest restaurants in Texas so its steeped in history too. Expect all the unusual Tex Mex dishes and choose which one suits your mood it’s all good.  

Natural Bridge Caverns

Natural Bridge Caverns is one of the most extensive cave systems in the area and one of the largest in Texas. So if you like caves this is the one to visit. 

It’s one of the best places to visit near San Antonio.

Expect to see all the cave usual’s such as stalactites, stalagmites and other ancient formation. It’s also a welcome relief from the Texan heat at a constant 70 degrees year round.

The tour takes you down 180 feet below ground and the caverns and formations are lit by atmospheric lighting making it all the more beautiful.

Your San Antonio vacation has to include a trip here it really is an amazing sight.

Japanese Tea Garden

If you need to get away from it all then yes San Antonio can also deliver with a Japanese Tea Garden. This lush beautiful space feels like a little oasis in an often none stop city. 

Entrance is free and you will be greeted by lush foliage, florals, stone bridges, ponds and a 60 foot waterfall. 

The gardens dates back to 1919 and has been renovated throughout the years to the beautiful space you find today. It’s one of the the best places to visit in San Antonio to just get away from it all.

While San Antonio may be known for its river and waterfalls there are a few in the area that are well worth a visit. 

The falls in the area are a mixture of man made and natural and we wanted to take you to one of the more artistic and interesting waterfalls in the area. 

The Grotto was created by  a local artist and really is a beautiful site. The water cascades over a man made feature that resembles a face. 

The best thing is you can walk behind it and get a whole different feel. It is one of the places to go in San Antonio at night as the falls are all lit up and look beautiful.

San Antonio Missions Natural Historic Park

Where park meets history and culture. Designated a National Historic Park and a UNESCO World Heritage Site this is one of the places to go in San Antonio that is a must.  

The park preserves four out of five of the Spanish Missions in San Antonio.  These missions  where built as outposts by the Spanish settlers from the 17th century to spread Christianity. 

The missions in the park are Mission Concepción, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. The best know mission The Alamo is not park of the park and is in downtown San Antonio.

A visit here is a great way to experience some of the history of the area. This is one of the best places to go sightseeing in San Antonio.

Mcnay Art Museum

With all the history around San Antonio modern art can seem a somewhat juxtaposition. However this city has always been a place where art is part of the culture as much as its history. 

Mcnay Art Museum was the first museum of modern art in Texas and its collection now includes somewhere in the region of 22,000 items.  The range includes Medieval and Renaissance art, 19th- through 21st- century European and American paintings, sculptures, and a lot more. 

Also notable is Jeanne and Irving Mathews Collection of Art Glass, and the Art of New Mexico. When it comes to different types of art this place is jam packed.

If you want to see a different side to San Antonio then I suggest a visit here might be perfect.

Aztec Theatre 

A cherished and historic landmark the Aztec Theatre is somewhat of a hidden gem which is well worth a visit. 

Considered a Mesoamerican architectural work of art the theatre has many columns reliefs and artifcacts in this style. 

It opened in 1926 and was then one of the most decorative movie theatres in the county.  It is still an entertainment venue today hosting many events. 

They often run theatre tours so check if there is anything available when you are there or catch a live show. At the very least take a walk by it it is one of the most beautiful places in San Antonio . 

It’s located at the corner of Commerce St. and St. Mary’s St and you can’t miss it. 

San Fernando Cathedral

San Fernando Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in the U.S.A. It was built in 1873 and is just so beautiful. 

The interior is stunning and the remains of some of the Alamo defenders are displayed, the history here is palpable. 

And as if that wasn’t enough there is also an incredible light show here most evenings. If you can go and watch the light show we highly recommend it.

As you can see when it comes to places to visit in San Antonio there are so many different things to choose from. Whichever of these attractions you visit we know you will have a great time.

Enjoy your vacation in San Antonio and come back and let us know what you think are the best places to visit in San Antonio.

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20 Best Things to Do in San Antonio, Texas in 2024

Written By: Sara Oprasic

United States

Published On: February 24, 2024

Planning a trip to San Antonio, Texas, and you’re not sure which attractions to prioritize? The good news is that you’ve found the right guide to help you plan your itinerary because it’s full of fun and interesting things to do in San Antonio for travelers of all ages! 

San Antonio offers a wide variety of attractions that can appeal to anyone. Want to visit a museum? There are at least half a dozen interesting ones in the city, which cover everything from the region’s natural history to Wild West exhibits. Maybe you’d like to take your kids to a theme park? You’ll be spoiled for choice since the city is home to several awesome amusement parks, some of which are the best and biggest in the state. 

I’ve only scratched the surface of fun things to do in San Antonio, so bear with me as I tell you about all the other awesome things that you need to see in this lovely Texas city.

San Antonio is a great destination for couples, families, and solo travelers. Anyone can find something fun to do in this city, whether it’s touring a historic landmark or tasting local specialties in a restaurant inside an 18th-century brewery building.  

Best of San Antonio Quick Guide

• Must See: The Alamo, San Antonio River Walk, San Antonio Mission Trail, La Villita, Pearl District, San Fernando Cathedral
• Where To Stay: The Gunter Hotel , The Menger Hotel , Hotel Emma
• Fun To Do: River Cruise , The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum , Ghost tours , Tower of The Americas, Six Flags Fiesta Texas
• Day Trips: Austin , Natural Bridge Caverns
• Must-Try Food: Puffy tacos, Barbecue, Bean burger, Chicken on a stick

Table of Contents

Best Things To Do In San Antonio, Texas

The things to do in San Antonio range from fun tours of historic neighborhoods to sightings of Teddy Roosevelt’s ghost. The city has so much to offer that anyone can have fun here regardless of their age and personal interests. 

Kids love the amusement and theme parks, young adults enjoy the colorful city center with fun shops and eateries, while proper adults can tour the Alamo and the historic Mission churches. Or have a blast at the largest Six Flags in Texas because adults can enjoy amusement park rides too.

1. San Antonio River Walk 

San Antonio’s River Walk is the top attraction in this Texas city. Landscaped walking paths are available on either side of the San Antonio River for roughly 15 miles. Shops, eateries, and hotels line the promenade, which sits one level below the city’s main roads. The Downtown area of the River Walk is the most popular with tourists and locals, but the promenade extends many miles north, and you could continue walking for more than an hour. 

The River Walk can get awfully crowded in the summer months, but finding a more tranquil area shouldn’t be a challenge. Just keep walking past all the busy restaurants and bars; the further down the River Walk you go, the smaller the crowds you’ll encounter.

How iconic is the San Antonio River Walk? Enough that the San Antonio Spurs celebrate winning the title by doing a victory boat parade. 

Practical Information: San Antonio River Walk is a 15-mile promenade accessible for free at any time of day. 

2. Tour La Villita Historic Village

La Villita is a historic artsy neighborhood sitting one level above the San Antonio River Walk. The district is listed on the National Registry of Historic Places for its 19th-century buildings that serve as examples of early residential development in San Antonio.

This old neighborhood is home to art galleries, shops, and colorful sculptures. If you like the sugar skull motif, you’ll love it in this picturesque little village. 

La Villita assembly hall is also in this district, and it’s an iconic sight in the San Antonio skyline. The building is known for the painted flower on its concave roof, and you can easily spot it from the observation deck at the Tower of the Americas. 

Practical Information: La Villita Historic Village is accessible any time of day, for free. Most shops in the neighborhood are open from 10 AM to 6 PM. 

3. Shopping & Dining At The Historic Market Square

The Historic Market Square is in western San Antonio, outside the center of the city. And it’s absolutely worth it to go out of your way to see it because it’s one of the city’s best destinations for souvenir shopping and cheap food. 

Come here for authentic Tex-Mex food, colorful clothes, jewelry, and all sorts of trinkets and crafts. Even if you’re not very hungry when you visit the Historic Market Square, I recommend you try at least the puffy tacos. They’re an iconic San Antonio delicacy and one of the best local foods. 

Bean burgers, chicken on a stick, and sweet potato fries are other San Antonio specialties to try if you’re doing a culinary tour of the city. I will say that it’s a good thing most of the city center is walkable because it will take thousands of steps to burn off all those delicious calories. 

Practical Information: The Historic Market Square is open from 10 AM to 6 PM. Entrance to the area is free of charge. 

4. Appreciate The View From The Tower of The Americas

The Tower of the Americas is one of two observation decks in Texas and the only one in San Antonio. It was initially built for the 1968 World Fair, and it took only 18 months to complete the construction. 

The tower is the centerpiece of the HemisFair Park in Downtown San Antonio. It has an observation deck on the top floor and a revolving restaurant, where you can enjoy a nice (but pricey) meal along with pretty views. Visitors who purchase tickets for the observation deck also get access to the 4D theater, where they can enjoy a 4D ride over Texas. 

Insider Tip: Come here after dark for a fabulous view of the San Antonio skyline. 

Practical Information: The Tower of the Americas is open from 10 AM to 10-11 PM. Tickets for the observation deck are $18.50 for adults. 

5. Walk The San Antonio Mission Trail

Head to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park to discover one of only 24 UNESCO World Heritage Sites in the United States. San Antonio missions were important outposts for Catholic religious orders established by the Spanish colonists. The purpose of the missions was to help spread Christianity among the native population. 

Four out of five San Antonio missions are preserved in the park; the fifth is by far the most famous known, known as the Alamo. The Mission Trail is a walking path through the national park, which allows you to discover all four missions on the grounds. Bicycles are available, and they’re the best for getting from one mission to another quickly. 

It’s also possible to just drive from one spot to another, and this is the best option if you have very limited time in San Antonio. If you only have time to visit one of these landmarks, make it Mission San Jose. It’s the best-preserved building with period furnishings and an exhibit that offers insight into the lives of the local population in the early 18th century. 

Practical Information: San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is open daily from sunrise to sunset. Entrance to the park is free of charge. 

6. Go On A River Cruise 

Don’t have enough time to explore the historic River Walk on foot? That’s fine because you can tour the entire pedestrian area in a boat in about 30 minutes! Go Rio cruises are available at multiple spots on the River Walk, so just walk along the river until you spot a Go Rio ticket booth or empty boats. 

The boats depart every 15-20 minutes, so you might have to wait a little while for a free seat. Buy tickets online if you don’t want to wait in line at the ticket booth, but keep in mind that they’re not timed tickets. Seats on the boat are given out on a first-come-first-served basis. 

I recommend doing the river cruise at night for the absolute best experience. The boats all light up in bright colors, and there’s something special about the River Walk after dark. All the cruises are narrated, and the guide will tell you a lot about the history of the River Walk and its importance for San Antonio and its residents. 

Practical Information: Go Rio cruises take place every 15-20 minutes. A ticket for adults is $14.5. 

7. Ghost Tour of San Antonio

San Antonio is an excellent destination for ghost hunts and haunted tours. If that doesn’t sound like something you would enjoy, just skip to the next thing on this list before I traumatize you with ghost stories. 

The most haunted building in the city is of course the Alamo, where people to this day report seeing ghosts of Texan soldiers. Opposite the historic fort is the Menger Hotel, another popular destination in the city for ghost sightings. Guests have reported hearing strange noises in the hotel, seeing faces in the mirror, smelling cigar smoke, and even encountering the ghost of Teddy Roosevelt at the bar. 

Visit all of San Antonio’s haunted sites on your own, or arrange a g uided ghost tour of the city . They take place after dark, of course, and are my recommendation if you want to end the night terrified and lie in bed restless. 

Practical Information: Ghost tours of San Antonio take place at night and usually last for 2-3 hours. 

8. Get Lost At The Japanese Tea Garden

The Japanese Tea Garden is close to the San Antonio Zoo, north of the city center. The botanical garden dates back to the early 20th century and features koi ponds, stone bridges, a pagoda, and a waterfall. Countless plants and trees adorn this lush garden, and the mesmerizing landscaping is the best thing about it. 

Come here if you ever need to escape the busy streets of Downtown San Antonio. You can forget you’re in Texas for a moment as you roam around the grounds of the captivating botanical garden. 

Practical Information:  The Japanese Tea Garden is open from 7 AM to 5 PM. Entrance to the botanical garden is free of charge. 

9. Visit The Alamo 

The Alamo is probably the most famous landmark in the state of Texas . The legendary fortress is one of the earliest missions that were built in Texas, and it’s formerly known as  Misión San Antonio de Valero. 

It would become world-famous after the Battle of the Alamo, which was a crucial turning point in the Texas Revolution. Today, the small fortress serves as a museum with a collection of artifacts from the revolution era, one of the most important events in Texas history. The Alamo is one of the most popular historic sites in the United States, and as such, it tends to be busy all the time. 

The complex is rather small, and it doesn’t take too much time to tour it. However, the queues are often long, and waiting in line is inevitable at such a popular landmark. Entrance to the on-site church is free of charge, but it’s necessary to buy tickets for other buildings on the grounds. 

Practical Information: Tickets for the Alamo exhibit are $14 for adults. A guided tour of the complex with entrance to all the buildings is $45. 

10. Sightseeing in The Pearl District 

The Pearl District is the area of San Antonio surrounding the historic Pearl Brewery. Originally founded as the City Brewery in 1881, it would quickly become the largest brewery in Texas and the only one to survive the prohibition. 

The brewery closed down in 2001, and the building today houses shops and restaurants. Come here to discover a different part of San Antonio, one that’s full of history and interesting landmarks but away from the city center. 

The Grotto is also in the Pearl district, situated on the River Walk south of the brewery building. It’s an artificial riverfront cave with faces carved into the rocks, walking paths through the cliffs, and man-made waterfalls. 

Practical Information: The Pearl Brewery is approximately a 30-minute walk from the Downtown, accessible by walking paths on the San Antonio River Walk. 

11. Discover The Collection at  The San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art is situated in the former building of the Lone Star Brewery, just a 15-minute walk from the vibrant Pearl District. It boasts an extensive exhibit of Latin American, Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art that spans nearly 5,000 years. Items exhibited at the museum include paintings, sculptures, photographs, furniture, everyday objects, and much more. 

The museum’s collection of American artwork and artifacts spans two floors and includes a special section dedicated to artists from Texas. Also, the Asian artwork exhibit is the largest of its kind in the Southwest, making this museum an absolute must for all art lovers in San Antonio. 

Practical Information: The San Antonio Museum of Art is open from 10 AM to 5/7 PM every day except Monday. Tickets are $20 for adults. 

12. Amusement Park Rides at Six Flags Fiesta Texas

If you’re in San Antonio with kids, there’s no better place to take them than Six Flags Fiesta Texas. The theme park is also known as The Thrill Capital of South Texas with more than 60 rides throughout the grounds, including a water park with at least 15 slides. If you’re looking for even more water rides, I suggest you check out SeaWorld San Antonio instead. 

Rising to an impressive 205 feet, the Scream drop tower is the park’s scariest ride. If you want to feel adrenaline coursing through your veins, it’s THE ride for you. But the centerpiece of the amusement park is the Boomerang rollercoaster, featuring insane twists and turns at a speed of almost 60 miles per hour. 

The amusement park can be done in a couple of hours if you’re short on time, or you could spend an entire day here going on different rides and having the time of your life. If you decide to stay at the Six Flags Fiesta for at least half a day, consider getting a One-Day Dining Deal to save money on food. 

Practical Information: One-day passes for the Six Flags Fiesta Texas theme park start at $45. 

13. Explore The Natural Bridge Caverns

One of the best natural landmarks in Texas is just a 30-minute drive from central San Antonio. Come here for underground tours of the caverns but also to have some fun on the adventure courses above ground. 

The caverns are remarkable to see with all the different geological formations. However, I don’t recommend this tour for travelers with limited mobility because it can get very strenuous at times. Also, the humidity is constantly at 99% and the temperature is normally around 70 degrees, which is uncharacteristically warm for underground caves. 

The adventure park features a maze, rope courses, and multiple zip rails above the ground with panoramic views of Texas Hill Country. Everything here is kid-friendly, and there are even a couple of exhibits that are specifically designed for the youngest visitors. 

Insider Tip: Wear sturdy shoes because the cavern floor is wet and slippery. 

Practical Information: The fee for cavern tours is approximately $30-50, depending on the day you visit and the type of tour you choose. Natural Bridge Caverns Park is open daily from 9:30 AM to 5:30 PM. 

14. Native Flora at San Antonio Botanical Garden

San Antonio Botanical Garden is a vast green space in the northern part of the city. Featuring ponds, landscaped walking trails, and lush greenery all around, the place is a sight for sore eyes if you’re tired of looking at the downtown buildings. 

Several conservatories are at the botanical garden, and they’re special not only for the plants you’ll see inside but also for their shape. The glass structures are practically pieces of art and wonderful to see. The plants and flowers inside are mostly the ones that are native to the region, but they’re nonetheless lovely. 

The botanical garden also features a cafe, and it’s a great place to sit down for a quick break before you move on to the next San Antonio landmark. 

Practical Information: The San Antonio Botanical Garden is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. The entrance fee is $18-22 for adults. 

15. Jump Into an LED Ball Pit at Hopscotch San Antonio

Hopscotch San Antonio is a modern art gallery with very fun interactive exhibits. There are only two Hopschotch galleries in the United States, so a trip to San Antonio is the perfect opportunity to discover this fabulous space. 

It’s unlike any art gallery you’ve ever visited. Many exhibits are interactive and extremely fun. You can play in an LED ball pit, walk around a rainbow cave, and jump around on a quantum trampoline. The exhibit also features murals and sculptures, but they’re far from traditional artworks. 

The art gallery is also one of the most Instagrammable places in San Antonio, so you must come here if you want to commemorate your trip to this city with epic photos. 

Insider Tip: To engage with some of the interactive exhibits, visitors must take off their shoes and wear socks. 

Practical Information: Hopscotch San Antonio is open Wednesday to Sunday from 12 PM to 10 PM. General admission to the art gallery is $24. 

16. Travel Back In Time At The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum

Head to the Buckhorn Saloon & Museum in Downtown San Antonio for a dash of the Wild West. The restaurant is styled as a traditional Western saloon and features two very interesting museums on the grounds. A single ticket grants you access to both museums. 

The Buckhorn Museum features a bizarre collection of taxidermied animals, which I did not like very much. Don’t get me wrong, it’s an interesting collection and I haven’t seen anything like it anywhere in my life, it’s just that taxidermy freaks me out quite a bit. 

I enjoyed the Texas Ranger Museum much more, with its reconstruction of a Wild West town, complete with a saloon and a jail cell. You can walk through those classic saloon doors and pose for photographs behind bars, pretending to be a proper outlaw. The exhibit also features guns of famous Texas rangers, as well as their badges and photographs. 

Practical Information: The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum is open from 10 AM to 5 PM. Admission tickets are $22.99 and include entrance to all the exhibits in the building.  You can book them here.

17. Tour The Spanish Governor’s Palace

The Spanish Governor’s Palace is somewhat of a hidden gem in San Antonio. Include it in your San Antonio itinerary if you want to see a fascinating stucco palace complete with period furniture and ghosts. The palace is rumored to be haunted, and it’s often included in San Antonio ghost tours. 

You won’t see any ghosts if you visit during the day, and you can focus on the impeccable colonial architecture and stunning antique furnishings. Beautiful artworks adorn the interior of the palace and its grounds, but I personally found the kitchen area the most interesting.  I’ve never seen anything like it before, especially in such good condition. 

Insider Tip: The Palace is situated between the San Fernando Cathedral and the Historic Market Square, so you can see three popular San Antonio attractions in one afternoon. 

Practical Information: The Spanish Governer’s Palace is open from 9 AM to 5 PM. Tickets are $5. 

18. Day Trip to Austin 

San Antonio is only an hour and a half from Austin. The bustling state capital is one of the best places to visit on day trips from San Antonio, both for the proximity and wonderful attractions it offers. Austin is known for its excellent cultural scene, great food, live music, and just a great atmosphere all around.

If you consider yourself an art lover, you’ll have the time of your life in Austin . The city is home to many wonderful museums and art exhibits, which range from a museum dedicated to Charles Umlauf’s works to a modern art installation named Cathedral of Junk. 

The Texas Capitol is an iconic building that you can’t miss while you’re in Austin. It is absolutely incredible to see and visitors can get free, 30-minute guided tours of the landmark complex. 

Practical Information: Austin is 80 miles northeast of San Antonio. It takes about an hour and a half to reach the city both by car and local bus. 

19. Learn About Texas at The Witte Museum

The Witte Museum is set in Brackenridge Park, and it’s one of the oldest museums in San Antonio, dedicated to recounting stories about Texas, from prehistoric times to the modern day. The museum’s collection includes a wide variety of historic artifacts, and some of the highlights are dinosaur bones and Sheriff’s badges from the late 1800s. 

The exhibit is fascinating, and I love that there’s something for everyone, regardless of their age. Kids are usually captivated by the giant replicas of dinosaurs, while adults have more fun discovering Texan art, textiles, and everyday objects from a previous era. 

This museum is outside central San Antonio, but it’s easily accessible by public transport. A bus can take you from the Alamo to the Witte Museum in just 20 minutes.

Practical Information: The Witte Museum is open from 10 AM to 6 PM. Tickets are $16 for adults. 

20. See The Historic San Fernando Cathedral 

San Fernando Cathedral is yet another in a string of historic landmarks to be found in Downtown San Antonio. The landmark church was initially constructed in the early 18th century and serves as a wonderful example of Spanish colonial architecture. 

The opulent altar and marvelous stained glass windows are the highlights of San Fernando Cathedral. Free guided tours are available to all visitors, although you won’t get to see the interior of the church. Instead, the tours take you around the cathedral grounds while the local guide recounts the church’s history. 

This church is often included in ghost tours of San Antonio. If you come here at night, you’ll get to see a spectacular light and music show, and you might even experience some paranormal events. 

Practical Information: San Fernando Cathedral is open from 9 AM to 5 PM and is accessible free of charge. 

Frequently Asked Questions For San Antonio, Texas

How Can I Spend 3 Days In San Antonio? 

Three days are enough time to see all of San Antonio’s best landmarks and do a day trip to a nearby city or national park. Visit the Alamo, San Fernando Cathedral, San Antonio Mission Trail, the River Walk, the Witte Museum, the Buckhorn Saloon & Museum, the San Antonio Botanical Garden, and the Pearl, and go on a river cruise in the downtown. 

What Is The Most Visited Place In San Antonio, Texas? 

The Alamo is the most visited landmark in San Antonio, Texas. The San Antonio River Walk is a close second, with a much more touristy atmosphere than the historic battleground. 

What Is San Antonio Best Known For? 

San Antonio is best known for the Alamo and the Spanish mission churches. Its rich and battle-ridden history has also made it famous for ghost sightings. 

How Do I Spend A Day In San Antonio? 

If you only have a day in San Antonio, spend it visiting the River Walk, the Alamo, Historic Market Square, San Antonio Mission Historic National Park, and the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum. One day is enough time to see all these landmarks, and you might just have enough time to squeeze in a trip to one of the botanical gardens.

Tips And Information For Visiting San Antonio, Texas

Best Time To Visit

The best time to visit San Antonio is from November to April. March and April are generally the most popular months for trips to this Texas city because of the mild, warm weather. It’s perfect for long walks around the city center and excursions to nearby parks and national landmarks.

Avoid traveling to the city in the summer if you can. San Antonio has very hot summers, and the temperatures often exceed 90 degrees throughout the day. That’s too hot to be comfortable when you’re outside most of the day, especially with the city’s high humidity. 

Getting There

Look for flights to San Antonio International Airport. It’s only a 15-minute drive from downtown San Antonio, so you’ll be at your hotel in no time. Buses also run from the airport to the city center; tickets are inexpensive at $2.5, and the ride is only 30-40 minutes long. It’s worth considering if you’re on a tighter budget and don’t want to spend money on taxis. 

Alternatively, you can fly to Austin and then get a ride to San Antonio. The airport in Austin is bigger and busier than the one in San Antonio, with more domestic and international connections. The capital is just an hour and a half from San Antonio by both car and bus. 

Getting Around

Much of central San Antonio is walkable, so you can explore a large portion of the city on foot. Cycling is popular here and an excellent alternative to taxi rides and car rentals. San Antonio has a good bike-sharing system, and you can visit most of the attractions listed in this guide on a bicycle. 

A rental car would help you get around San Antonio quicker, but it’s not a necessity. The public transport network in San Antonio is good and can even help you get all the way to Austin. So, consider renting a car only if you have very limited time in the city and you want to visit as many landmarks as possible. 

How Much Time Do You Need

Three days is the perfect amount of time for a San Antonio trip. It’s more than enough time to cover all the top landmarks in the city, as well as a day trip to a nearby city or national park. I recommend incorporating a day trip to Austin in your three-day itinerary because it’s very close to San Antonio. 

The city can be done in two days, but you’ll need to choose between a day trip or city attractions for the second day of the trip. And if you only have one day in San Antonio, prioritize all the historic places and buildings. 

San Antonio City Pass

The San Antonio City Pass is really good value for money and I highly recommend you get it if you’re serious about sightseeing in the Texas city. The pass offers free entrance to four out of eight attractions of your choice for $59: 

• Go Rio San Antonio River Cruises ($14.5)
• San Antonio Zoo ($25)
• The Tower of The Americas ($18.50)
• The DoSeum ($18)
• San Antonio Botanical Garden ($18-22)
• Witte Museum ($16)
• San Antonio Museum of Art ($20)
• The Alamo – Exhibit and Church ($14)

You can get your money’s worth if you visit just three exhibits and the fourth one is practically free of charge! Getting the San Antonio City Pass is a no-brainer if at least three of these places have already made it onto your itinerary.  Grab your Pass here.

Where To Stay in San Antonio, Texas

First-time visitors should look for hotels in Downtown San Antonio for easy walking access to all the best tourist attractions. Many hotels are available along the historic River Walk, and they’re some of the best hotels in the city. 

The Pearl district is also a lovely part of the city to stay in, with plenty of interesting attractions nearby. Here are some of the best hotels in San Antonio for all budgets: 

• The Gunter Hotel is an affordable option in the Downtown, close to all the best San Antonio landmarks. 
• The Menger Hotel is a good mid-range option in the city center, with the added bonus of ghost sightings.
• Hotel Emma is a high-end luxury hotel on the River Walk in the Pearl District of San Antonio.  

Whether you stay at a haunted hotel or an all-out luxury resort, I’m pretty sure you’ll have a great time in San Antonio. Especially if you prioritize visiting the attractions that you are genuinely interested in, as opposed to queuing at popular places just because it’s what you’re supposed to do.

Plan Your Next Trip to Texas with These Resources

• 26 Best Weekend Getaways in Texas You Don’t Want To Miss
• 25 Best Things to Do in Houston, Texas
• 16 Best Beaches in Texas to Visit
• 21 Things to Do on South Padre Island, Texas
• 29 Best Things to do in Austin, Texas

Travel Planning Resources

Looking to book your next trip? Why not use these resources that are tried and tested by yours truly.

Flights: Start planning your trip by finding the best flight deals on Skyscanner

Book your Hotel: Find the best prices on hotels with these two providers. If you are located in Europe use Booking.com and if you are anywhere else use TripAdvisor

Find Apartment Rentals: You will find the cheapest prices on apartment rentals with VRBO . 

Travel Insurance: Don't leave home without it. Here is what we recommend:

• Allianz - Occasional Travelers.
• Medjet - Global air medical transport and travel security.

Need more help planning your trip? Make sure to check out our Resources Page where we highlight all the great companies that we trust when we are traveling.

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Here’s when you should visit San Antonio, Texas

Feb 8, 2023 • 4 min read

Major annual events – such as the rodeo each February – mean scores of citywide parties throughout the year in San Antonio © Cavan-Images / Shutterstock

San Antonio – variously known as “Alamo City,” the “River City” and “Military City” – is home to some truly iconic destinations and a few hidden gems.

A few common attractions are sure to show up on any to-do list: the  Alamo , the River Walk  and perhaps a trip to the blossoming Pearl District.

But once those boxes have been checked, what’s next? And when is the best time to see this city of many names at its best? Here’s when to go to San Antonio for festivals, food, the outdoors and more.

Visit in May to August to get outdoors in San Antonio

If you associate heat with San Antonio, you are not alone. By the time May rolls around, daily highs typically average between 85-95°F, with humidity above 60%. Despite this extreme heat, many locals invite friends and family to visit each summer. Because that is when San Antonio’s true colors can be seen.

And the best way to see those colors firsthand? Fireworks displays. Which happen all summer long.

Come Memorial Day, San Antonians celebrate that one out of every eight San Antonio residents is directly connected to the military in some way. This can be seen – and heard – in the sky throughout the summer.

People here truly love their fireworks. On July 4, the most extravagant (legal) displays can be found at Woodlawn Lake – but rest assured (local laws notwithstanding) that explosions can be seen and heard from almost any location come sundown.

By day, you can escape the heat with a long river float on the Comal River in nearby New Braunfels, take a dip on the beaches of Medina Lake or bring the whole family to San Pedro Springs.

January to April is party season, with the rodeo, Fiesta and more

Locals are partial to springtime in San Antonio: temperatures are at their most tolerable, and the city awakens as each flower blooms. The kickoff to the season is the  San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo  each February. Bring the kids to enjoy carnival rides and an opportunity to pet livestock – then come back later with friends for one of the many concerts that take place each night.

Visitors who can’t make it in time for the rodeo can still take advantage of the lower seasonal hotel rates to check out the Alamo on the anniversary of its battle (February 23), or set up a personal photo shoot in a field of bluebonnets (watch out for those rattlesnakes). You can even try and spot PGA legends at the Valero Texas Open .

But the real gem of the season is  Fiesta .

This annual multi-week celebration is one of San Antonio’s biggest draws. As April rolls around, Mission City plays host to countless parades, festivals and parties, kicking off with an Oyster Bake that draws 60,000–70,000 guests annually. Many parades occur throughout the celebration, most notably the Battle of Flowers Parade , the original official Fiesta event. Led by a passionate group of local women since 1891, this parade commemorates fallen heroes of the Alamo and San Jacinto Battles and is a local favorite (many in the area even get the day off work to celebrate).

Another key parade winds its way through San Antonio’s King William District toward the end of Fiesta, showcasing a collection of historic houses built by German settlers after the Civil War. The King William Parade and King William Fair  celebrate the neighborhood’s rich history and support the community each year. 

NIOSA (Night in Old San Antonio), is the most exciting of all Fiesta's events. This four-night festival takes place in the heart of downtown and features food booths, dancing, original local artwork, lots of drinks and more bright colors than one can imagine.

This is the real San Antonio. According to the festival organizers, locals consume “17,000 lbs of beef; 11,000 lbs of chicken; 5000lbs of sausage; 3000 turkey legs; 25,000 buns; 30,000 tortillas; 2000lbs of masa; 6000 tamales; 15,000lbs of fruits and vegetables; and 1000lbs of guacamole.” How could anyone resist such Texas-sized excess?

Watch the city twinkle for the holidays from September to December

Once summer has come and gone, the tourist season also begins to wane – which means great deals on lodging. Still, there is plenty to see throughout the fall without worrying about the imposing summer sun. 

Fright fans can head to the area amusement parks for seasonal spookiness and the  13th Floor Haunted House  on Commerce St is a long-standing Halloween tradition. 

Perhaps the prettiest way to see local icons the Alamo and River Walk is when they’re twinkling with holiday lights. In December, layer-wearing visitors take rides on riverboats beneath the cascading colored lights hanging from the bald cypress trees overhead. While the city no longer decorates a tree in  Alamo Plaza , there is no shortage of holiday spirit to be found there, with carolers and Santas spotted daily. 

In true San Antonio tradition, the city wouldn’t be able to ring in the new year without another incredible light show. Visitors looking to celebrate New Year’s Eve should head down to Hemisfair Plaza to watch the official fireworks display illuminate the downtown skyline. 

This article was first published April 2021 and updated February 2023

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Love Exploring

24 Of The Best Things To See And Do In San Antonio, Texas

Posted: December 29, 2023 | Last updated: December 29, 2023

Welcome to Fiesta City

Beautiful San Antonio is a city with over 300 years of tradition and culture that embraces both its Texan and Mexican heritage with equal vigor. Its famous River Walk remains the beating heart of the city, but it is also a designated Creative City of Gastronomy and home to the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas.

Click through the gallery for the must-visit places and authentic experiences that will show you the true character of this amazing Texan city...

1. Have breakfast at Mi Tierra cafe

Mi Tierra opened as a tiny three-table cafe for early-rising farmers and workers at the local mercado (market) in 1941 and has gone on to become a San Antonio Tex-Mex institution. The food is hearty and authentic – you’ll find the city’s best huevos rancheros here. And the decor is suitably over-the-top and dazzling.

If it’s quiet, head waiter Gerry Sepulveda will take you on a tour of the premises, including the extraordinary mural celebrating Hispanic leaders in the community.

2. Walk back through time at Mission San Jose

The missions in San Antonio date back to the 1700s and are the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. They are a reminder of a time when drought forced the native people of South Texas to give up their traditional life to become Spanish, accepting a new religion and agrarian lifestyle in order to survive. 

Mission San Jose, known as the “Queen of the Missions,” is the largest too, and was restored to its original design in the 1930s. Take a ranger-guided tour for unique insights into this fascinating period of Texan history.

3. Explore the incredible San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) takes you around the world and through 5,000 years of art in a collection of buildings that once housed the Lone Star Brewery. Visitors will particularly want to explore the museum’s extraordinary collection of Latin American art, including a number of pieces related to the city’s own colonial past.

SAMA also houses special exhibitions, most recently American Made , an exhibition spanning over 250 years of American art.

4. Step up to the world’s largest cowboy boots

Towering over a branch of Saks Fifth Avenue, right beside the busy Interstate 410, these stylish 36-foot-high boots have been marking the entrance of the North Star Mall for over 40 years. Made from tubular steel sprayed with polyurethane foam, they were designed and built by Austin-born artist Bob “Daddy O” Wade, who claims they could hold 300,000 gallons of beer.

They remain all the proof you need that everything really is bigger in Texas.

5. Taste the latest culinary delights at La Gloria

Chef Johnny Hernandez is a stalwart in the San Antonio foodie scene and a mentor to many of the city’s most exciting up-and-coming chefs. His dishes showcase the flavors of Mexico and the Southwest and La Gloria, in the hip Pearl district is the purest expression of what he does.

It focuses on ocean-fresh ceviche, tiraditos, and enchiladas with a colorful new raw bar bringing fresh excitement to dining at La Gloria. All enjoyed alfresco, overlooking a lush section of the city’s River Walk.

6. Take part in America’s most colourful Day of the Dead celebrations

San Antonio is famous for its authentic Day of the Dead celebrations, regarded by many as the grandest in the entire United States. As the end of October approaches you’ll notice ofrenda – altars – popping up all over the city – in hotels, stores, restaurants, and other places of business – remembering and celebrating the lives of loved ones who have passed.

The ofrenda are colorfully decorated with photos, candles, sugar skulls, and paper papel picado – and fresh orange marigolds essential in guiding the spirits with their vibrant shade.

7. Cheer on the Day of the Dead River Parade

The official celebration begins with the Day of the Dead San Antonio River Parade. Visitors and locals alike line either side of River Walk in downtown San Antonio to cheer 26 colorfully decorated barges as they parade down the river. Each barge represents a different figure or tradition associated with the Day of the Dead, often with an accompanying Mariachi band to supply the soundtrack.

Quite simply, it is one of the most colorful and joyous water parades you’ll ever see.

8. Dive headfirst into Muertos Fest

The focal point of San Antonio’s Day of the Dead celebrations is Muertos Fest, a huge cultural event held in Hemisfair, the city’s newly redeveloped central outdoor space. The paths are lined by authentic altars, created by local citizens, and there is live music, delicious street food, and stalls selling all kinds of colorful produce as well.

The event culminates in a spectacular procession, but most of the enjoyment comes from watching San Antonians parade through the park in their finest Day of the Dead costumes. The amount of work that goes into them is astounding.

9. Savour local flavours at Tasting Texas

On the same weekend as Muertos Fest, Tasting Texas is a four-day festival celebrating the unique culinary delights of this part of Texas. Visitors get to sample delicious menu items from the city’s best restaurants and sip on specialty drinks made right in front of you.

There are seminars presented by chefs and beverage experts so you can sharpen your own skills. And each session has a different theme like ‘Burgers, Bourbon and Beer’ and ‘Bubbles, Booze and Bites.’

Choose which one takes your fancy. Or attend them all.

10. Remember the Alamo

Arguably San Antonio’s most famous landmark, The Alamo is a honey-stoned historic Spanish mission and fortress that holds a special place in the Texan psyche.

The battle here in 1836, although lost, became a rallying point for the fight for Texan independence. The knowledgeable guides here explain the story as well as characters like Davy Crockett, who played their part in creating the legend.

Make sure you check out the Phil Collins Collection. The former Genesis drummer accumulated the biggest collection of Alamo memorabilia in the world and recently gifted it to the State of Texas.

11. Discover history and rye at the Maverick Whisky Distillery

Almost directly opposite the Alamo, in a handsome building that used to house the Lockwood National Bank, you’ll find the Maverick Whiskey Distillery. The distillery takes its name from Sam Maverick, a Texas land baron, cheater of death (he survived combat at the Alamo and being captured by the Mexican Army, among other feats), and one of the signatories of the Texas Declaration of Independence.

He is also the man from which all other mavericks are named. The distillery is run by his great (x3) grandson Kenneth Maverick, and their distillery and tasting tour is a highlight of any visit to San Antonio.

12. Feel the serenity at the San Antonio Botanical Garden

The San Antonio Botanical Garden serves as a 38-acre living museum of plants and offers a tranquil escape from the Texas heat. The focus here is on Texas natives that thrive in arid conditions, as well as endangered plants not found anywhere else.

Whether you take a guided tour or wander freely along its winding paths, each corner reveals another soothing vista. Or a terrifying mythical creature, sculpted from plants, part of the Imaginary Worlds: Once Upon a Time exhibition.

Lunch at Jardin, the park’s elegant restaurant, is highly recommended too.

13. Get your country on at The Lonesome Rose

No trip to Texas is complete without a visit to a Honky Tonk Bar. And it doesn’t get much more Honky Tonk than The Lonesome Rose out in Tobin Hill on San Antonio’s St Mary’s strip. The lights are kept suitably low and the walls are covered in neon beer signs and country and western memorabilia.

And on any given night you’ll find a red-hot band playing mournful tunes, country karaoke, or, if you’re really lucky, hosting a Dolly Parton look-alike competition. Just pull up a stool, order a beer, and take it all in.

14. Pick up a souvenir at Historic Market Square

Historic Market Square is where the culture of San Antonio comes alive. Here you can immerse yourself in the sights and flavors of old Mexico as well as pick up a truly unique souvenir from the hundreds of vendors selling authentic Mexican curios and artifacts, hand-crafted leather goods, and a diverse collection of other cultural apparel.

On the weekends there is live entertainment too, with Mariachi bands turning the whole square into a mini fiesta.

15. Expand your mind at the Witte Museum

Located on the banks of the San Antonio River, the stunning Witte Museum is where nature, science, and culture meet. Here you’ll find massive exhibits on dinosaurs, the people of the Pecos, and wild Texas in a cavernous, recently renovated space that feels like a cathedral to learning.

You’ll find recreations of traditional Texas buildings in the beautifully maintained grounds and, tucked away in the South Texas Heritage Center, a real treat: Davy Crockett’s fiddle, which he may or may not have played as the Alamo lay under siege.

16. Get a custom-fitted Stetson at Paris Hatters

Family owned and operated since 1917, Paris Hatters at 119 Broadway is the place to go if you want to buy a Stetson the proper way. Not only does the company have the largest inventory of the iconic cowboy hat in the country, it has the expertise to create and style a Stetson to fit your head perfectly and bring out your hat’s unique personality.

Satisfied customers include American presidents Bush, Eisenhower, Truman and Johnson, country music royalty Johnny Cash, Merle Haggard, and Dwight Yoakam, and more unlikely souls like Pope John Paul II and Luciano Pavarotti.

17. Refuel with coffee and pastries at La Panaderia

Brothers José and David Cáceres opened bakery-cafe La Panadería in 2014 to share their Mexican heritage and love for baking with the people of their adopted hometown of San Antonio. San Antonio locals promptly responded by making it the most popular breakfast spot in the city. You might have to queue on the weekends but the super-fresh Mexican pastries, hearty breakfasts, and great coffee are well worth the wait.

18. Shop and eat in the hip Pearl district

Located just north of downtown San Antonio, Pear l is a hip new mixed-use neighborhood, set in the grounds of a brewery that operated between 1883 and 2000. Now it is a bustling mix of picturesque green spaces, riverside paseos (walks), quirky boutique stores, and some of the best new cafes and restaurants in the city.

Start your visit with coffee and macarons at Bakery Lorraine and then just wander. You’re sure to find something that takes your fancy.

19. Indulge yourself at Hotel Emma

The real pearl of Pearl is the stunning Hotel Emma. Set in the main building of the old Pearl Brewing Company, it combines the extravagance of the iconic 19th century Brew House with the shirtsleeve industrial aesthetic of the brewery’s back rooms.

Stay in one of the boutique rooms, enjoy world-class cuisine at the Supper restaurant or simply pay homage to the building’s heritage by enjoying a beer (or a cocktail) at the Sternewirth bar. Perhaps in one of the old vats, refashioned into hip little hidey-holes for modern day drinkers.

20. Explore the iconic River Walk

Life in San Antonio has always revolved around the San Antonio River. Downtown, the city’s famous River Walk sits below street level, lined with lively bars and restaurants, shaded by venerable bald cypresses, and crossed over quaint stone arched bridges. It is a focal point when the city celebrates – the boat parade during the Day of the Dead, illuminations at various points of the year, boats full of carollers at Christmas.

It is best enjoyed from the river itself, on a Go Rio cruise, where entertaining guides reveal the city’s history with great knowledge and humor.

21. Sample chilli con carne at the source

In the late 1800s San Antonio’s plazas were famous for their ‘Chili Queens,’ local Mexican women doling out huge bowls of steaming chili con carne. The original inhabitants had always eaten a chili stew of sorts. But when the Spanish arrived with cattle, ‘chili’ had a ‘con carne’ (with meat) for the first time.

For real authentic chili con carne, head to the Four Brothers restaurant at the Omni La Mansion del Rio hotel. Made following a traditional recipe, it also comes with a huge serving of cornbread, baked in the shape of Texas.

22. Relive the Wild West at Briscoe Museum

Briscoe Western Art Museum is San Antonio’s newest museum, named in honor of the late Texas Governor Dolph Briscoe Jr. Set in the former San Antonio Public Library building, overlooking River Walk, it features nine galleries, each celebrating the art, history, and culture of the American West. Highlights include Pancho Villa’s saddle, a diorama of the Alamo, an authentic Chuck Wagon, and works by Frederic Remington and Taos Society of Artists.

23. Try a Reuben sandwich at Schilo’s Deli

Shilo’s has been proudly serving up Texan-German fare for over 100 years and is San Antonio’s oldest restaurant. You feel that history as soon as you walk in the door, in the patina of the serving counters and booths, and in the unashamedly old-fashioned menu items like meatloaf, wiener schnitzel, and a sausage platter, served with two sides and a choice of breads.

Its signature Rueben sandwich on a dark rye will keep you going all day. The iced coffees are divine too.

24. Be dazzled at America’s oldest cathedral

Head to San Antonio’s Main Plaza on any night other than Monday and you’ll be treated to The Saga, a breathtaking light show that depicts the discovery, settlement, and development of the city. The unique video art presentation is projected onto the majestic facade of San Fernando Cathedral – the oldest cathedral in the United States – and is the brainchild of French artist Xavier de Richemont.

The Saga debuted in 2014 and has become a must-see when visiting San Antonio. And a truly memorable introduction to the events and people that make it the city it is today.

Now discover 40 more fantastic things to do in the Lone Star state...

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7 Reasons Why San Antonio is the Perfect Holiday Destination

It’s the most wonderful time of the year! Now that the holidays are here, many people are looking and planning for the perfect holiday destination. If you are still on the fence about where to spend the holidays, look no further than San Antonio!

There is no better place to feel the festive holiday cheer than San Antonio. The perfect holiday getaway is the Alamo City, known for its high walkability score, rich culture, and many other holiday events and festivities happening throughout the holiday season.

There is an abundance of reasons to spend the holiday season with us, but we have narrowed it down to 7 great reasons to make San Antonio your holiday destination.

San Antonio's Walkability Makes It Perfect for Strolling Under the Glow of Thousands of Holiday Lights

Hear the sleigh bells jinglin' while you stroll our beautiful city. While there is certainly plenty to explore by car, many shops, hotels, restaurants, and events are within walking distance along the River Walk, which extends 15 miles from Museum Reach to Mission Reach.

It also helps to have a beautiful view - our River Walk is lit up with festive lights to guide your way from the day after Thanksgiving through the beginning of January. If you find your feet need a rest, be sure to hop aboard a GO RIO River Cruise to explore the city by river barge.

Many of  San Antonio’s neighborhoods  also have city centers with high walkability scores. Visit these fantastic areas and save at the pump during your holiday vacation.

Immersive Historical Landmarks Found Only in San Antonio Shine Bright

You're likely already familiar with The Alamo  and The River Walk - both lit up, especially for the holiday season, but did you know that San Antonio has many more historical and cultural landmarks you will not find anywhere else?

Take a trip to San Antonio  Missions National Historical Park and visit the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Texas where communities are still thriving today.

Then, head over to Main Plaza and view an amazing light show projected onto the facade of San Fernando Cathedral at a showing of San Antonio | The Saga .

Experience all the fantastic spots found  only in San Antonio .

Diverse Communities and Proud Heritages Share Their Holiday Traditions

In San Antonio, our roots run deep, which is shown through our holiday heritage and diverse community . From the 8th Annual Pecan Harvest, brought to you by the American Indians In Texas At The Spanish Colonial Missions, to our Gran Tamalada event and more, San Antonio is the best place to see how our many cultures not only coexist but they also share customs and blend together to form new traditions. 

You will find no cultural experience anywhere else quite like what you will find in San Antonio. Get in some holiday shopping at  Historic Market Square , the largest Mexican Market in the United States, and explore the many cultures that call San Antonio home.

Our Accommodations Get in the Holiday Spirit

There is no shortage of fantastic places to stay out if you plan your perfect holiday destination, and many take part in their own holiday pop-ups, extravaganzas, and more. Take JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa , for example, where a Hill Country Christmas comes to life with storybook readings with Mrs. Claus, gingerbread decorating, letter writing to Santa, pop-up holiday lounges, and more.

San Antonio offers plenty of accommodations , from high-end stays at the River Walk to historic spaces near The Alamo, hotels throughout the city, resorts in the Hill Country, and more. 

San Antonio Holiday Experiences Don't Have to Break the Bank

Alamo Lights, Photo Courtesy of The Alamo

If you are traveling on a budget, you will be happy to know that San Antonio offers many affordable experiences, including countless free events throughout the year . In addition to The Alamo, Missions National Historical Park, and San Antonio | The Saga, all of which are free events, The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts hosts monthly free outdoor movie watch parties at their Cinema on Will's Plaza events.

San Antonio Is a Foodie's Paradise - Especially During the Holidays

Photo Courtesy of Box St. All Day |  Zach St. Ward

There is a reason San Antonio has been named one of the country's only two  Creative Cities of Gastronomy . You'll find no shortage of delicious holiday flavors in San Antonio. We have fine dining from James Beard Award-winning chefs and the best part is, our fine dining can be experienced throughout the entire city! From our eastside to our westside, and everywhere in between - there is a restaurant that serves exactly what you're craving.

Get your mouth watering with some of our favorite  restaurants and bars  and find some of the best holiday treats in the area. 

Holiday Events That Will Keep Your Vacation Plans Shiny and Bright

There is no need to limit your holiday cheer; San Antonio has a wide variety of exciting events for you and the family to enjoy! From Christmas at the Caverns at Natural Bridge Caverns , Museum Reach River of Lights, the Annual Ford Holiday River Parade, experience the holidays like never before. 

Make your ideal holiday itinerary with these  upcoming events .

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When and where you can see April's Pink Moon

By Aliza Chasan

Updated on: April 22, 2024 / 4:39 PM EDT / CBS News

Astronomy fans can check out the Pink Moon this month as April's full moon rises.

April's full moon will reach peak illumination at 7:49 p.m. EDT on Tuesday, but it will appear full from Monday through Thursday morning, according to NASA . The Old Farmer's Almanac details specific moonrise times for different ZIP codes across the U.S. 

Why is April's full moon known as the Pink Moon?

Full moon names often come from seasons, historical crops and the behavior of certain animals. The "Pink Moon" moniker unfortunately has nothing to do with the moon's color, according to The Old Farmer's Almanac. Instead, it's connected to the early springtime bloom of certain wildflowers, including one native to eastern North America often called "moss pink."

April's full moon goes by several other names, too, including Breaking Ice Moon, Moon When the Streams are Again Navigable, Budding Moon of Plants and Shrubs and Moon of the Red Grass Appearing. It also has several names connected to animals, including Moon When the Ducks Come Back, Moon When the Geese Lay Eggs, Frog Moon and Sucker Moon.

NASA notes it's also the Pesach or Passover Moon — the Jewish holiday begins this year on Monday evening. This full moon also corresponds with the Hanuman Jayanti festival on the Hindu lunisolar calendar in most regions, according to the space agency. 

Look up — what else can you see in the sky this spring?

The Eta Aquariids meteor shower is estimated to peak Saturday, May 4 through Sunday, May 5. And May's full moon, the Flower Moon, reaches peak illumination on May 23. 

In case you missed it,  the Lyrid meteor shower  peaked late Sunday night, between April 21 and 22.

Aliza Chasan is a digital producer at 60 Minutes and CBSNews.com. She has previously written for outlets including PIX11 News, The New York Daily News, Inside Edition and DNAinfo. Aliza covers trending news, often focusing on crime and politics.

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