san antonio missions to visit

A Complete Guide to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

When it comes to interesting places to visit in the United States, travelers have more than their fair share of sensational options. From majestic national parks, to sprawling urban centers teeming with art and culture, the USA has a robust list of worthwhile places to see and experience. And undoubtedly, San Antonio is just such a place.

Now, lest we be accused of bias, the Alamo city was just named one of the 23 best places to go in the US in 2023 by Condé Nast Traveler. So clearly, we aren’t off base in our opinions. What makes SA so special is that it offers the traveler’s trifecta of unique culture, delicious food, and a comprehensive list of things to do and see. Chief among this list, the San Antonio Missions National Park. As the only UNESCO world heritage site in Texas and a significant part of Texas history, the missions are an absolute must-do for any visitor to San Antonio. 

History of the San Antonio Missions

While the history of the Alamo - where famed frontiersmen like Jim Bowie and Davy Crockett perished in defense of the outpost - is known the world over (thanks for that, John Wayne), the history of the other missions is not nearly as familiar. The other four missions – Espada, San Juan, San Jose, and Concepcion – share a common story. Each was settled in the early 1700s by Franciscan Spanish missionaries looking to convert the Coahuiltecan native tribes that lived throughout south Texas to Christianity. These missions were responsible for not only spreading Catholicism, but propagating the skills required for survival such as farming, ranching, and masonry. 

For years, these missions rose beyond the settlement of churches to become thriving communities of native Americans working and living together. But sadly, each of these missions also share a common tale of demise. Famine, disease, and enemy tribes ultimately spelled disaster for the missions, and each was secularized and ceased operations by 1824. 

At the heart of each mission was its church and it is these churches that draw visitors year-round to learn about the 300+ year history of San Antonio. Today, each church is still used for regular religious services, some by congregants who can trace their ancestry back to the formation of the missions.

How to Visit the Historical Missions

A visit to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is often a highlight of peoples’ trips to San Antonio. Depending on travel styles and energy levels, guests can choose from a few different ways to tour the missions. 

By car: All of the missions are accessible by car and have dedicated parking lots that are free of charge (with the one exception of the Alamo which is downtown and requires parking in a nearby garage). Each of the missions is also easily accessible for those with disabilities as the walking paths and grounds are flat and paved. As the missions stretch from north to south, we suggest starting with the southernmost mission (Espada) and working your way north into the city.

By bus: San Antonio’s metropolitan VIA transit company offers two routes to those who are interested in seeing the missions. The VIVA bus routes are dedicated routes to cultural and tourist destinations throughout greater SA and the VIVA line #40 will deliver riders to all four of the missions that are south of downtown. Be aware that they only stop at select cultural destinations and not typical city blocks.

The second option is the VIA bus #42 which will take visitors from downtown to missions San Jose and Concepcion, but they do not travel to San Juan or Espada. Information on routes and fares can be found on the VIA Metropolitan Transit website .

Can you bike the San Antonio Missions?

The most adventurous, albeit strenuous, way to see the missions is by biking or hiking. Each mission sits along the banks of the San Antonio river and can be accessed from the river mission trail that runs along the River Walk. This trail is approximately 10 miles long and winds its way from the Alamo, south to Mission Espada. Those who choose to have a go at this trail will not only get to see the missions but will enjoy the views of the picturesque San Antonio river as well as the local plant and wildlife. 

Can I rent a bicycle in San Antonio?

To rent a bike, check out the BCycle San Antonio website or app. Bikeshare kiosks are available at every mission and guests can pick up an unlimited use day pass for just $15. A printable map of the missions river trail and BCycle bike kiosks is available here .

Basic Info About The San Antonio Missions

Visits to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Parks are a fun and informative way to learn about the history of Texas, and in particular, San Antonio. 

• The parks are open every day of the year except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
• Admission is completely free of charge to see the grounds, structures, churches, and visitor centers. 
• While most of the parks do not offer guided tours (exceptions will be noted), free audio tours are available at all missions on your cell phone. Links to each tour will be included below. 
• The National Park Service is your go-to for all things SA missions related, so be sure to visit their website to get the most up-to-date info on operating hours, current conditions, and events.

1. Mission Espada

Cellphone Audio Tour

Mission Espada, the southernmost mission, was established in 1731 and is the smallest of the historical missions. Located in a rural neighborhood, Espada’s characteristic Spanish features – including the intricate arched church doorway, the belltower, the Espada aqueduct, dam, and acequia (an irrigation system that is the oldest in the United States) – lend themselves to a particularly peaceful feel as you stroll around the grounds of the enclosed mission. Head into the museum to see relics from the life of the mission such as an operational loom, farm tools, and a variety of boot spurs.

WEBSITE | 9942, 10328 Espada Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214

2. Mission San Juan

Mission San Juan Capistrano, also established in 1731, lies just 5 minutes up the road from Espada. San Juan got its start in East Texas in 1716 with a mission to serve the Nazonis Native Americans. The mission, which was largely unsuccessful, saw everything contained within it that could be moved, decamped to the banks of the San Antonio river where it stands today.

Mission San Juan is unique among the missions for its clean, white stone church building, which was constructed in the 1750s, as well as for its greatest contribution, the development of agriculture and farming. Visitors to Mission San Juan can still see the original farm fields that were worked in the 1700s. 

Bonus Info: If you’re heading to Mission San Juan and are up for some light hiking, don’t miss the Yanaguana Nature Trail. This paved and ADA-accessible trail is a short 1/3 mile and takes guests through lush greenery along a channel of the San Antonio river where it’s not uncommon to run across local wildlife including owls, turtles, snakes, and herons. 

WEBSITE | 9101 Graf Rd, San Antonio, TX 78214

3. Mission San José

Just three miles up the road from San Juan lies the largest and most commanding of the missions, Mission San Jose. San Jose was the first mission in SA, established in 1720, and given its imposing size (at its peak, the mission housed 350 native people in 84 two-room apartments), was dubbed in 1777 as the “Queen of the missions.” 

And queen it certainly is. The absolute must-see at San Jose is the limestone church, crafted in Spanish baroque architectural style. The surviving stone detail on the façade of the church is unmatched among the missions and definitely worth laying eyes on. Today, San Jose has been almost fully restored to its original layout which means that there is much to explore as guests wander the grounds and learn about the community that once lived here.

Protip 1: Mission San Jose is the only mission (besides the Alamo) where guests can take a live guided tour by a National Park Ranger. These free tours are packed with information and history and provide great context for what you will see as you visit San Jose. Daily tours begin at the visitor center and are offered at 10 am and 11 am and last for approximately 45 minutes. All tours are ADA and wheelchair accessible.

Protip 2: Mission San Jose is not only the biggest of the missions but also happens to be the busiest, second only to the Alamo. San Jose is a common stop for many local school fieldtrips, so if noisy, bustling students might detract from your experience of the historical site, simply plan to go on a Saturday or Sunday.

WEBSITE | 701 E Pyron Ave, San Antonio, TX 78214

4. Mission Concepción

Mission Concepcion, also established in 1731, is about three miles north of San Jose and located smack dab in the middle of an urban, residential neighborhood just south of downtown San Antonio. Concepcion boasts the oldest unrestored stone church in America. Extensive preservation work on the mission has uncovered a treasure trove of color from the original frescos that were painted in the 1700s and faint hues can still be seen today throughout the surviving structures. 

WEBSITE | 807 Mission Rd, San Antonio, TX 78210

5. The Alamo

Mission San Antonio de Valero, better known by the popular moniker “the Alamo,” stands right in the middle of San Antonio’s buzzing downtown area, right next to the San Antonio River Walk. The mission dropped anchor in SA in 1724 and operated until 1793 when it became a Spanish military outpost.

The iconic church façade and a few small structures (the long barrack and Convento courtyard) are all that remain today from the original compound.  Guests can tour these structures and learn about the Texas Revolution and the 13-day siege of the Alamo in 1836 by famed Mexican general Santa Anna where 180+ men made their final stand, losing their lives in the cause of Texas freedom.

Visits to the Alamo are free of charge but do require a timed entry. To reserve your tickets, click here .

WEBSITE | 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205

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San Antonio Missions National Historical Park: The Complete Guide

About the Park

• Hike & Bike Trail

Mission San Jose

Mission concepcion, mission san juan capistrano, mission espada, mission san antonio de valero (the alamo), where to stay, how to get there, accessibility, tips for visiting, san antonio missions national historical park.

The first UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park includes the city’s five Spanish colonial-era missions: San Jose, San Juan, Espada, Concepcion, and San Antonio de Valero (okay, the Alamo). The missions are easily accessible, and the Hike & Bike Trail makes exploring them easier and more enjoyable than ever. Read on to find out more about each mission, the trail, where to stay in San Antonio, and other need-to-know info before your trip. 

In the early 1800s, the city of San Antonio grew around the five Spanish mission sites strung along the San Antonio River. These mission sites were set up like a mini-city, with cattle and farming operations and ornately structured churches. Today, the churches still hold regular services in these historic buildings, and they’re all open to park visitors during park hours. 

Admission to the San Antonio Missions is free. The Contact Stations at Mission San Juan and Mission Espada are open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and the Visitor Center at Mission San Jose is open from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Hike & Bike Trail

The best way to explore the San Antonio Missions is by bicycle—the 15-mile "hike & bike" trail runs along the San Antonio River and connects all the missions. Each mission is about 2.5 miles from the next. The paved pedestrian trail (which is completely separate from traffic) is relatively flat and winds through old neighborhoods, past meadows of wildflowers, under roadways, and through various habitat corridors that support native plants, migratory birds, and other wildlife.

Download a map of the Riverwalk before you go (you’ll find water, restrooms, trail access, picnic tables, viewpoints, and more on this map). The city’s Mission Trail map can be found here , or you can get one at the Visitor Center (it’s right across the plaza from the Alamo).  

You have a couple of options for renting bicycles. The best option is to rent a bike from the Blue Star Bike Shop . They have a wide selection of Electra bicycles, fixed gears, road bikes, and more available for an all-day rental. Technically, you could rent a BCycle bike , which has several BStation kiosks all along the trail—but you would have to remember to check your bike back into a BStation every thirty minutes to avoid additional fees. 

Whether you decide to hike or bike (or drive), be sure to reserve enough time for a couple of pit-stops, aside from visiting the missions themselves: Start the day off by checking out Headwaters at Incarnate Word , a 55-acre sanctuary preserving the cultural and historical values of the headwaters of the San Antonio River. And, when you’re done with the trail, drop your bikes off next door and grab a brew and burger at Blue Star Brewing . 

Also known as the “Queen of the Missions,” Mission San Jose is the most impressive (and biggest) complex of the bunch. Nearly restored to its original design in the 1930s by the WPA, it’s known for its Rose Window and incredibly detailed façade.   

Known as the oldest unrestored stone church in America, Mission Concepcion appears very much as it did over two centuries ago. Some of the original frescoes are even still inside.  

Once a flourishing trade center for Native American-produced crops, San Juan was a true self-sustaining community. Within the compound, local Indian artisans crafted cloth and iron tools and grew an array of pumpkins, grapes, peppers, beans, squash, and more.  

This was the first mission founded in Texas, in 1690. It may be the smallest of the missions, but Mission Espada is just as beautiful as its larger sisters. And, its historic aqueduct (the Espada Aqueduct and Acequia System) is still in use today. 

“Remember the Mission San Antonio de Valero” just didn’t have the same ring to it, apparently. One of the most visited sites in Texas, the Alamo houses exhibits on the Texas Revolution and Texas history, and visitors are invited to experience guided tours, interactive history lessons, and a stroll through the beautiful, well-kept gardens.

San Antonio is replete with great lodging options, from upscale hotels to quaint B&B’s. Here are (just a few) of the best places to stay in the city:

• Hotel Emma. A destination in its own right, the immaculately designed Hotel Emma is located in the Pearl District’s restored brewhouse. 
• Mokara Hotel & Spa. This is easily one of the swankiest hotels in the city, just steps away from all the main action on the bustling Riverwalk.
• Hotel Contessa. Palm trees, a prime spot on the Riverwalk, and a heated rooftop pool: Need we say more?   
• Hotel Havana. Designed by the uber-hip Bunkhouse Group, Hotel Havana boasts cozy Cuban flair and a tranquil Riverwalk setting away from the crowds.   
• The Oge House - Inn on the Riverwalk. This B&B is an exquisitely restored antebellum mansion in the heart of the King William Historic District. 

The central location of San Antonio Missions National Historical Park makes visiting easy, no matter where you’re coming from. The mission trail is about 20 minutes from San Antonio International Airport (SAT). By car, the park is five hours south of Dallas, three hours east of Houston, and 1.5 hours southwest of Austin.  

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is committed to making everyone’s visit as enjoyable and accessible as possible. Each of the major sites in the park is partially wheelchair-accessible, and a wheelchair is available for loan at each site. Restrooms are wheelchair-accessible. There are also ranger-led tours at Mission San Jose on the paved paths of the mission. The San Juan Farm area of Mission San Juan Capistrano is composed of packed dirt paths, and at Espada Dam, the dam is visible from the parking lot.

Those in need of ASL interpretation should plan to email the park staff ahead of time to notify them of your visit. Blind or sight-impaired visitors are encouraged to ask the Visitor Center staff for a copy of the park brochure in braille or large print. The Visitor Center museum also has a relief map of the San Antonio River Valley and tactile exhibits of each mission church façade and compound. Audio recorded information is available through your cell phone, anywhere and anytime, by dialing 210-852-2407 for English or 210-857-2408 for Spanish. 

Note that VIA, the San Antonio Transit Authority, provides accessible transportation throughout the city (busses are wheelchair-accessible). Regularly scheduled service between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m. will take you to Missions San Jose, San Juan, and Concepcion. Bus #40 and #42 can also bring you within one block of Mission Concepcion and Mission San Jose. 

If you have questions or suggestions about accessible facilities, the National Park Service recommends contacting the park’s Accessibility Coordinator via email . 

• Free parking is available at each of the mission sites.
• Print out the Mission Trail map before you go, or simply get one from the Visitor Center. 
• Texas summers are very, very hot. If you’re planning to bike the trail, you’re better off doing so in early springtime, late fall, or winter. Bring plenty of water and wear strong SPF, no matter the season.
• Look over the Things To Know Before You Come page on the National Parks site.

San Antonio Guide: Planning Your Trip

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The Missions of San Antonio

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4 Beautiful San Antonio Missions To See After You’ve Visited The Alamo

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• San Antonio
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San Antonio is one of the top tourist destinations in the state of Texas. Offering delicious Tex-Mex food, a fabulous river walk , world-class theme parks, and an interesting history, there truly is something for everyone in San Antonio.

Part of the city’s interesting history is encompassed in one of the most popular tourist attractions in the city as well, the world-famous Alamo. While most visitors to San Antonio include the Alamo on their itinerary, many miss out on the other fabulous missions that San Antonio has to offer.

There are actually 5 missions in San Antonio, including the Alamo, that make up the San Antonio Mission Trail. As the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, you would be remiss to not pay a visit to the other four San Antonio missions.

In the 17th and 18th centuries, the Spanish colonial government financed the building of missions throughout Texas , California , and Arizona . These missions served to not only allow Spain to stake claim of the land, but they also helped to convert Native Americans to Catholicism.

The missions weren’t churches as many people believe. They were like small communities that worked together to serve a common purpose. It was around these missions that many great cities blossomed, like San Antonio!

As a Native Texan, I have visited the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park numerous times. I find that each time I visit these amazing missions I learn new information about the history of San Antonio and its surrounding areas.

Since the missions are conveniently connected by the San Antonio Mission Trail , a popular hike and bike trail that runs alongside the San Antonio River , it makes visiting them easy and fun! Just take note that the trail is over 10 miles long, so you decide if you want to bike or walk it. If you prefer, you can drive to the missions, or take the free public transportation that picks up right in front of the Alamo.

When planning your visit, it is important to note that each of the major sites at the parks are partially wheelchair accessible. As these are historic sites, there are several areas of uneven terrain. Walking is required between the sites, and there are some stairs at a few of the sites as well. 

1. Mission Concepción

Mission Nuestra Señora de la Purísma Concepción de Acuña ( Mission Concepción for short) is located just south of the Alamo, about 3 miles outside of downtown San Antonio.

The mission that you see before you today looks almost like it did back in the 1700s. The unrestored stone church was once adorned with colorful geometric designs. Unfortunately, these have faded, revealing the plain stones that you see today.

Mission Concepción was relocated to this area in the mid 1700s to escape the French soldiers that were beginning to move into the Texas area from Louisiana . Like other San Antonio missions, its home along the banks of the San Antonio River ensured that the residents had access to water for drinking and irrigation purposes.

The beautiful stone mission has 45-inch-thick stone walls and its beautiful design boasts two bell towers framing the entrance to the church. Once inside, be sure and take note of the beautiful frescoes depicting mission life in the 1700s. The images of the Franciscan friars interacting with the Indigenous People illustrates the relationship that came to be between the native Coahuiltecan Indians and the Spanish friars.

Feel free to explore the grounds during your visit as well. Notice the remnants of the stone walls that once protected the mission and the land that provided a homesite to the people living at Mission Concepción.

Pro Tip: Mission Concepción is still an active Catholic church today. You are welcome to plan your visit during service times and join in if you would like.

2. Mission San José

Located approximately 3 miles south of Mission Concepción is Mission San José . The largest of the four missions south of the Alamo, Mission San José is lovingly nicknamed “The Queen of the Missions.”

Mission San José was meticulously restored in the 1930s to its beauty and grandeur of the 1700s. Upon laying eyes on the mission’s massive stone church that incorporates beautiful Texas limestone with brightly colored limestone, it is easy to see why Mission San José is a favorite among visitors.

A visit to Mission San José truly feels like you are stepping back in time. One of the most popular attractions here is the Rose Window. The window was said to have been carved by a carpenter whose fiancé, Rosa, was lost at sea on her way from Spain to San Antonio.

Mission San José is also where you will find the visitor center for the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. The visitor center offers several exhibits, an informative film, and ranger-led tours of the mission which are on paved paths.

The unique thing about a visit to Mission San José is that visitors get to truly see a complete example of what life was like behind mission walls thanks to its extensive renovation.

As this mission was once home to hundreds of Native Americans , don’t miss the opportunity to see their living quarters. The Native Americans that called San José home lived in the 84 two-room residences that are built into the walls of the mission. These Native American families contributed to the community providing skills such as farming, ranching, carpentry, and more.

Also on-site are the convent, a granary, and a gristmill. The convent on-site served as the missionary’s residency and also provided lodging and shelter for guests visiting the mission. The on-site granary held the supply of wheat and corn until they were ready to go to the gristmill to be ground into cornmeal and flour.

Like Mission Concepción, Mission San José is also an active church. You are welcome to visit and join during service times.

Pro Tip: There is a restaurant located down the street from Mission San José that serves up delicious, authentic Tex-Mex. Nicha’s is a family-run restaurant that is the perfect place to have lunch while you are out exploring the San Antonio Mission Trail!

3. Mission San Juan Capistrano

Like Mission Concepción, Mission San Juan Capistrano also originated in East Texas before being relocated to the San Antonio area in 1731.

While this location feels a little more remote than the others, it was still a valuable mission significant to San Antonio’s history. The fertile land that Mission San Juan sits on helped to establish this mission as one of the agricultural suppliers of the region. Evidence suggests that Mission San Juan grew numerous fruits and vegetables both inside and outside the mission walls. Their production of melons, grapes, peppers, beans, and squash even helped them to establish a trade network reaching into Louisiana and Mexico.

Today, visitors can see the land still at work thanks to the on-site demonstrations that are held here and that benefit the San Antonio Food Bank. It is really a sight to behold when you see the crops still being irrigated by the original aquifers that were built on-site.

The beautiful white adobe church with its towering bell tower and Spanish embellishments stands out against all of the farmland surrounding it. If the church is open, take time to step inside and explore the historic structure.

The farm area at San Juan Capistrano is an uneven dirt path. In addition, the paved trail leading to the dam is steep and there are no safety barriers. If you would like to view the dam without going down this path, you can do so from the parking area. 

Pro Tip: For a little respite from the city, walk the 0.3-mile Yanaguana Trail that hugs the San Antonio River. The trail is a nice place to enjoy the shade and relax for a few minutes.

4. Mission Espada

Mission Espada is the southernmost mission on the San Antonio Mission Trail, located approximately 10 miles south of the Alamo.

As the first mission founded in Texas, Mission Espada holds a special place in Texas history. Originally named San Francisco de los Tejas and located in Weches, Texas, Mission Espada was moved to its current location in 1731 and renamed at that time as well.

Like the other missions, Spanish friars converted the Native Americans in the area to Catholicism and taught them trades so that they could contribute to the mission. These skills included farming, carpentry, weaving, and masonry.

Today, visitors can see evidence of these trade skills when they visit Mission Espada. One such artifact on-site is the loom that was brought to Mission Espada to spin wool from sheep. Today, live demonstrations of the loom take place on Tuesdays at the mission.

Mission Espada also housed a residence for the priest, a blacksmith shop, a kiln, and other tradesman-type workrooms. Unfortunately, a fire erupted on the site in 1826 that destroyed much of the property. The granary, chapel, and a couple of the original walls still remain.

If you are interested, you can join a ranger-led tour of Mission Espada’s ranch that is located about 30 miles south of San Antonio in the small town of Floresville, Texas. Please see the National Park Service website for current tour offerings.

Pro Tip: During your visit, don’t miss the historic aqueduct and dam that are a short drive away. Constructed in 1745 by the Franciscan friars, this aqueduct brought water from the San Antonio River to Mission Espada. Not only are they the oldest in the United States, but they are still functioning today! These aquifers are an incredibly preserved piece of history.

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This love of travel has allowed her to visit numerous countries and to fall in love with Italy. Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blogs, That Texas Couple and Totally Texas Travel. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Price & Hours

• Facilities 3.0
• Atmosphere 4.5

Aside from the Alamo , this is where all of San Antonio's historic missions – Mission San José, Mission Concepción, Mission Espada and Mission San Juan – are located, making this a must-see site for history buffs. Established along the San Antonio River in the 18th century by Franciscan friars, the missions stand as a reminder of Spanish colonizers' success in spreading Catholicism through the Southwest and into Mexico. Each mission is beautiful in its own way, from the undisturbed frescos at Mission Concepción to the Romanesque arches of Mission San Juan. Scattered around the missions are remnants of granaries, workshops and water mills.

The missions have complicated stories, as many Native Americans who lived within the missions adapted to the Spanish way of life (sometimes willingly), forgoing their religions, languages and customs. However, the missions still retain many of Native American influences including the building frescoes and mission customs. In honor of this history, the park was named a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015.

Recent visitors suggest taking advantage of the free tours offered by the park rangers, noting how much more they learned during their visit. You can hike or bike the Mission Trail (there are also roads for visitors with cars), which links all five missions; there are viewpoints, water fountains and bathrooms along the way.

Located a few miles south of downtown San Antonio, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is open daily from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free. You can get to the site by car or bus, or even on foot or bike if you take the trail. The  best San Antonio tours also make stops here. Each mission has its own visitor center (the main center is located at Mission San José). Visit the National Park Service website for details.

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#1 River Walk

Many agree that the best way to see San Antonio is by taking a stroll along the River Walk, or Paseo del Rio . San Antonio's most-visited tourist attraction meanders along the banks of the San Antonio River through the center of the city, connecting major attractions like Brackenridge Park and the San Antonio Museum of Art . Flanking the River Walk are dozens of restaurants, boutique hotels and sidewalk cafes shaded by colorful umbrellas. Street performers often fill the air with mariachi music.

If you want to see the River Walk from a different vantage point, try a boat tour. GO RIO offers a variety of cruises, including two-hour dinner cruises, short narrated excursions, private charters and river shuttle service from downtown to Museum Reach. Ticket fees vary depending on what type of journey you want, but you can expect to pay at least $14.50 per person, with discounts for locals, children, seniors and military members.

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Welcome to San Antonio Missions, a National Park Service site and the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. After 10,000 years, the people of South Texas were faced with drought, European diseases, and colonization. In the early 1700s, many Native people of South Texas foreswore their traditional life to become Spanish, accepting a new religion and agrarian lifestyle in hopes of survival.

Visit the four mission communities within San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

Ranger-guided programs offered daily at 10am & 11am at Mission San José.

Plan your trip with maps and information about how to get around the park.

Explore our education materials, lesson plans, and videos!

Permits are required for portrait photography, commercial photography/filming, and other activities. Learn more about how to acquire one.

All five missions in San Antonio together make up the San Antonio Missions World Heritage Site.

The National Park Service, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park's Land and Water Acknowledgement

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Headquarters 2202 Roosevelt Avenue San Antonio, TX 78210

210 932-1001

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Welcome to The San Antonio River Walk

At last, you've found your official guide to all things San Antonio River Walk. Get ready to experience this iconic landmark's vibrant culture, captivating history, and endless charm, where unforgettable experiences await around every bend. 

River Walk Live!

A FREE concert series under the stars along the River Walk? Count us in! Catch our next show coming June 20th with Angel White!

Salute at Sunset

Free evening patriotic river parades happen 4th of July weekend! Make plans to join us at the San Antonio River Walk!

Rio Magazine: Summer Edition

Out now: Get ready for summer on the River Walk with the latest edition of Rio Magazine! Find coupons & savings, events to check…

Family Fun on the River Walk

Planning a family getaway to the River Walk this spring? We have your guide to family fun on the River Walk here.

Get To Know The San Antonio River Walk

You may know the downtown portion of the River Walk, but do you know about the different experiences at all three stretches?

The San Antonio River Walk

Trending events, epicurean moments.

• Recurring daily

Every day, our creative culinary team crafts small tapas with a unique local twist…

Resilient and Responsive: Artists and the Environment Exhibit

• Recurring weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

SAN ANTONIO, TX (APRIL 10, 2024) - The City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts…

Sound Cream Sunset Sessions

• Recurring weekly on Thursday

Sound Cream Sunset Sessions will move into their new home at Hemisfair and turn…

Survival of the Fittest Summer Exhibition

• Recurring weekly on Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

The Briscoe Western Art Museum unleashes it’s summer exhibition, kicking off June 14…

Cinema on Will’s Plaza at The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

• Recurring monthly on the 2nd Friday

Join us for a FREE movie night out on the Will Naylor Smith River Walk Plaza at The…

Paesanos Dinner Cruises on the San Antonio River Walk

• Recurring weekly on Friday, Saturday

Float down the iconic San Antonio River, surrounded by the towering trees and the…

Sip, Drift & Chill Riverwalk Cocktail Cruises

Summer is hot, hot, hot; join us for Sip, Drift and Chill as you cruise along the…

July 4-7, 2024 Salute at Sunset

Get patriotic on the San Antonio River Walk! Free river parades are happening 4th of July weekend! Celebrate the men and women in all branches of the United States Armed Forces with Salute at Sunset!

Find your vibe

The River Walk by Day

Unveil the many adventures on the River Walk! By day, arts & culture, unique shops, restaurants, tours, and more. By night, a vibrant nightlife scene, entertaining attractions, and more. Click the toggle button below to plan your adventures now.

The River Walk by Night

Arts & culture, restaurants, spas & wellness, dining & nightlife, attractions, where to stay, what's trending, 7 river walk hotels with poolside relaxation, a guide to family fun along the river walk, the ultimate guide to river walk neighborhoods, romantic experiences along the san antonio river walk, a guide to the river walk for every month in 2024, explore southtown the arts district, local eats along the river walk, explore san antonio's oldest neighborhood: la villita, explore all reaches.

From quiet strolls to lively parades, come experience the endless adventures of the San Antonio River Walk

Texas Experience

Adventures are calling at the San Antonio River Walk. Where will you begin your River Walk exploration?

Museum Reach

Added in 2009, the Museum Reach of the San Antonio River Walk invites…

Downtown River Walk

The Downtown Reach of the San Antonio River Walk radiates a vibrant…

Mission Reach

The San Antonio River Walk offers more than just the vibrant downtown…

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The Many Adventures of San Antonio

San Antonio always has something new to experience, discover, and explore. From one-of-a-kind events to the best restaurants, attractions, and so much more, a trip to San Antonio is just what you need for your best getaway yet.  

New San Antonio Official Visitor's Guide Out Now

The BRAND-NEW San Antonio Official Visitor's Guide is out now! Get the best recommendations on places to visit, things to do…

Juneteenth in San Antonio

Commemorate Juneteenth and the Civic Season in the Alamo City. Find the best ideas and events to attend here.

Your Guide to Father's Day in San Antonio

Make lasting memories this Father's Day with a trip to San Antonio! Here are some ideas for your best Father's Day yet.

Stars & Stripes on Houston Street

We're going big with patriotic celebrations at Stars & Stripes on Houston Street! Check out these events coming in July!

Theme Park Capital of Texas

163 Rides, slides & experiences, including 16 new additions, and 663 Acres of FUN! Welcome to the Theme Park Capital of Texas.

The Best Summer Ever

Dive into the many cools of San Antonio! Check out these hotel, restaurant, and attraction offers and experiences, our official…

Arts & Culture Summer Experiences

Enjoy arts & culture experiences in San Antonio all summer long! Check out these exhibits and events and plan your trip to San…

Top things to do this week

Dogs a science tail.

• Recurring daily

Sniff out the science behind our puppy love at The DoSeum! Let curiosity be your…

Epicurean Moments

Every day, our creative culinary team crafts small tapas with a unique local twist…

Experience the world-premiere of Huntopia at the San Antonio Botanical Garden…

Resilient and Responsive: Artists and the Environment Exhibit

• Recurring weekly on Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday

SAN ANTONIO, TX (APRIL 10, 2024) - The City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts…

Summer Party Nights at Be Kind & Rewind

"Party All The Time" is the vibe at Be Kind & Rewind all Summer long! Downtown…

Surviving Space: Astronauts & Asteroids

• Recurring weekly on Sunday, Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

Discover what it takes to become a space explorer and an Earth defender! Experience…

Sound Cream Sunset Sessions

• Recurring weekly on Thursday

Sound Cream Sunset Sessions will move into their new home at Hemisfair and turn…

Survival of the Fittest Summer Exhibition

• Recurring weekly on Sunday, Monday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

The Briscoe Western Art Museum unleashes it’s summer exhibition, kicking off June 14…

The Boys in the Band

• Recurring weekly on Sunday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday

The Boys in the Band delves into the complexities of identity and relationships…

Cinema on Will’s Plaza at The Tobin Center for the Performing Arts

• Recurring monthly on the 2nd Friday

Join us for a FREE movie night out on the Will Naylor Smith River Walk Plaza at The…

Fiesta Noche del Rio

• Recurring weekly on Friday, Saturday

Fiesta Noche del Rio is San Antonio’s annual iconic cultural performance. Situated on…

Paesanos Dinner Cruises on the San Antonio River Walk

Float down the iconic San Antonio River, surrounded by the towering trees and the…

Sip, Drift & Chill Riverwalk Cocktail Cruises

Summer is hot, hot, hot; join us for Sip, Drift and Chill as you cruise along the…

25th Annual Juneteenth Freedom Parade

• Saturday June 15, 2024

The parade route starts @ Sam Houston H.S. 4635 E Houston St. Ends at Comanche Park…

Black Cowboys: An American Story

Explore the lives and work of the numerous Black men, women and children…

What’s Trending

Read our latest blogs and guides on the best things to do in San Antonio, Texas. From local events to popular restaurants, we keep you updated on the pulse of the Alamo City.

The Ultimate Guide to the Many Pool Experiences in San Antonio

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Rides. Food. Family…and FUN. Don’t miss San Antonio’s largest, most popular theme park on the city’s Northwest side, Six Flags Fiesta Texas…

SeaWorld San Antonio

SeaWorld San Antonio has everything from amazing animal attractions to thrilling rides and seasonal events. With year-round operation, the…

Morgan's Wonderland

The World’s First Ultra-Accessible™ Theme Park. Morgan’s Wonderland – a place for all ages, all abilities, and endless fun – was…

San Antonio Zoo

Wild meets life at San Antonio Zoo®! Open year round, come experience and connect with more than 750 animal species on 56 acres of…

Hopscotch is a uniquely curated, permanent 20,000 sq ft art gallery which features 14 distinctive immersive and interactive installations…

Centrally located on Alamo Plaza in downtown San Antonio, the Alamo features interactive tours and exhibits and hosts reenactments of the…

The Witte Museum

Nature, science, and culture meet at The Witte Museum. Massive exhibits of dinosaurs, People of the Pecos and Texas Wild, and other rotating…

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Where the city’s rich history meets national parks. Visit San Antonio Missions National Historical Park to experience the stories of people…

The DoSeum - San Antonio’s Museum for Kids

Experience the next generation of interactive education at The DoSeum. Designed and constructed with a thoughtful, sustainable approach, The…

Majestic Theatre

Located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, the Majestic Theatre was built in 1929 and is a National Historic Landmark. It was designed in…

Located downtown, in historic St. Paul Square, 1902 bridges the city’s rich history with modern aesthetics and service. Only steps from the…

Howl at the Moon

Part concert. Part piano bar. All fun. Howl at the Moon is a singing, clapping, stomping, dance on the piano, rock ‘n roll kind of dueling…

Devils River Whiskey

In the heart of downtown San Antonio lies the home of Devils River Whiskey. Just about a block away from the Alamo and the San Antonio River…

Elsewhere Bar & Kitchen

Discover the epitome of Instagram-worthy perfection at Elsewhere Garden Bar & Kitchen, boasting the best patio and most Instagrammable bar…

Francis Bogside

Francis Bogside, located in historic St. Paul Square near the Alamo Dome and the Henry B. Gonzales Convention Center, is a distinctive…

GO RIO River Cruises

Ride the river and GO RIO! A new experience in water transportation is here. Colorful, new barges ride the river through downtown, while…

Welcome to MOV Tours, where we invite you to experience the vibrant tapestry of San Antonio, Texas, through our diverse array of leisure…

Our luxurious, curated helicopter tours offer half-day and full-day experiences, complete with a tour concierge to guide you through your…

Garcia Art Glass, Inc

Garcia Art Glass, Inc. opened it’s doors in 1998 as the first hot glass studio in downtown San Antonio, TX. Now in its 25th year, their…

Scentchips are the Original Wax Melt and have been hand crafted in San Antonio, Texas since 1979. Product quality and customer service are…

Pearl: local flavor since 1883. Located just north of downtown San Antonio, Pearl provides a unique experience as a top culinary and…

Historic Market Square

Shops, restaurants, and vibrant surroundings. All at Historic Market Square. A three-block outdoor plaza lined with shops, and restaurants…

North Star Mall

Kick up your boots and shop ‘til you drop at North Star Mall in San Antonio. Just ten miles from downtown San Antonio, and two miles from…

Microsoft Store & billing help

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Explore Microsoft Store services

From free shipping and returns to our 60-day price protection, we’re here to help you do more with best-in-class devices, software, games, and resources. ​

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2024 Total Eclipse: Where & When

Eclipse explorer.

For a mobile-friendly or full-screen version of this interactive map, visit go.nasa.gov/EclipseExplorer .

The Monday, April 8, 2024, total solar eclipse crossed North America, passing over Mexico, the United States, and Canada. The total solar eclipse began over the South Pacific Ocean. Weather permitting, the first location in continental North America that experienced totality is Mexico’s Pacific coast at around 11:07 a.m. PDT.

The path of the eclipse continued from Mexico, entering the United States in Texas, and traveled through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. Small parts of Tennessee and Michigan also experienced the total solar eclipse. The eclipse entered Canada in Southern Ontario, and continued through Quebec, New Brunswick, Prince Edward Island, and Cape Breton. The eclipse exited continental North America on the Atlantic coast of Newfoundland, Canada, at 5:16 p.m. NDT.

This table provides the time that totality began in some U.S. cities in the path of totality. These areas also experienced a partial eclipse before and after these times.

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