Discover the 16 best things to do in San Antonio Texas, from exploring historic landmarks to savoring mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine. Plan your perfect trip to this vibrant city! San Antonio, Texas, is a city brimming with history, culture, and exciting attractions.
Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or an adventure seeker, San Antonio has something to offer everyone. In this guide, we'll take you on a journey through the 16 best things to do in San Antonio Texas, ensuring you make the most of your visit to this iconic Texan city.
Those seeking a little Texas frontier history are sure to find it here – San Antonio proudly touts sites like the Alamo, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and the Spanish Governor's Palace. The museums, such as the San Antonio Museum of Art, are also not to be missed.
This city also makes for a great family vacation – with educational and adrenaline-pumping fun. SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas will thrill both you and the little ones. And no city tour would be complete without a stroll down the River Walk, a 3-mile-long path along the San Antonio River, which hits many attractions. For help navigating the city's top things to do, sign up for one of the best San Antonio tours.
01. Brackenridge Park FREE
#1 in San Antonio / 2.9 miles to city center
When the River Walk seems too busy, seek refuge from the heat and the swarms of tourists in Brackenridge Park. Its 343 acres offer much in the way of relaxation: rustic stone bridges and shaded walkways are perfect for strolling, and the Japanese Tea Garden and San Antonio Botanical Garden beckon to botanists.
Dress casual so you can take advantage of Brackenridge's jogging trails, golf course and athletic fields. The park also hosts outdoor concerts in the natural Sunken Garden Theater. In and around the park, you'll also find popular attractions like the San Antonio Zoo and the Witte Museum.
Past visitors appreciated the park's train, which runs through the zoo and offers an excellent opportunity to get around the large area. They also recommend bringing some bird seed to feed the ducks that float down the San Antonio River. The park is also a featured stop on many of the best San Antonio tours.
Address: 3700 North St. Mary's Street
Free, Parks and Gardens TYPE
Half Day to Full Day TIME TO SPEND
30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Texas
Tourist Attractions in Texas
30 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Texas
Explore the 30 top-rated tourist attractions in Texas and discover the Lone Star State's hidden gems. From historic sites to natural wonders, Texas has it all! Whether you're interested in a city g...
Learn More02. The Alamo FREE
#2 in San Antonio / 1.3 miles to city center
If there's one thing San Antonio is known for, it's the Alamo. Once a Franciscan mission, it was here that 189 Texans fought and lost their lives in 1836 during a 13-day siege by Mexican ruler, President Antonio López de Santa Anna.
The fight sparked Texas' struggle for independence and today, the Alamo stands as a tribute to these men, displaying artifacts belonging to some of the Alamo's most famous defenders, including Davy Crockett and James Bowie.
Once you've finished visiting the Alamo (either on your own or by guided tour), head around back where a small museum and research library offer further insight into the siege. Alternatively, take a pass through the gift shop, where you can find a variety of souvenirs to help you "Remember the Alamo."
Recent visitors said the site can get rather busy, so try to visit early in the morning or later in the evening. Most visitors also agree that even when it's packed with tourists, the Alamo is a must-see in San Antonio.
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza
Free, Churches/Religious Sites, Sightseeing / TYPE
1 to 2 hours / TIME TO SPEND
03. San Fernando Cathedral FREE
#3 in San Antonio0.8 miles to city center
If you're touring San Antonio, the San Fernando Cathedral is hard to miss. Still an active house of worship, the cathedral is one of the oldest in the country, constructed in 1738 by colonists from the Canary Islands.
It was here that Wild West legend James Bowie was married and that General Antonio López de Santa Anna indicated his plans for the Alamo. Some believe that many heroes from the Alamo (including Davy Crockett) are buried here in an unmarked tomb.
And despite enduring damage from a fire in the late 19th century, the San Fernando Cathedral maintains its antique appearance, beckoning you to tour its breathtaking interior.
While the interior is open during the day, recent travelers insist that you visit the church at night to take advantage of the free light show.
Every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 9, 9:30 and 10 p.m., entrancing images are projected onto the building facade, delighting past visitors to San Antonio. You'll want to double-check the Main Plaza website to make sure the show is occurring.
Address: 115 Main Plaza
Free, Churches/Religious Sites, Sightseeing TYPE
1 to 2 hours TIME TO SPEND
04. River Walk FREE
#4 in San Antonio1.1 miles to city center
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, and street performers often fill the air with mariachi music.
If you're in San Antonio in January, don't miss the River Walk Mud Festival and Parade, during which the river is drained and the muddy riverbed becomes the prime venue for celebration.
If you want to see the River Walk from a different vantage point, try a boat tour. These 35-minute tours, offered by Rio San Antonio Cruises (one of the best San Antonio tours), take visitors on a leisurely ride down the winding river.
Tickets cost $8.25 for adults and $2 for children. Many say the boat rides are a must. You could also opt to catch a Rio Taxi, which costs a bit less and makes continuous stops along the river.
Address: 200 South Alamo Street
Free, Neighborhood/Area TYPE
1 to 2 hours TIME TO SPEND
05. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park FREE
#5 in San Antonio3.6 miles to city center
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 tribute to Spain's success in spreading Catholicism through the Southwest and into Mexico.
Each mission (located approximately 3 miles apart from one another) is beautiful in its own way, from the undisturbed frescos at Mission Concepción to the Romanesque arches of Mission San Juan.
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 also hike or bike the Mission Trail (there are also roads for visitors with cars) past each structure to learn about how the friars lived side-by-side with Native Americans. Scattered around the missions are remnants of granaries, workshops and water mills.
Address: 6701 San Jose Drive
Free, Churches/Religious Sites, Sightseeing TYPE
2 hours to Half Day TIME TO SPEND
06. San Antonio Museum of Art
#6 in San Antonio1.6 miles to city center
Although it may not be as large as other art museums, the San Antonio Museum of Art is a cultural gem that's not to be missed.
It hosts top-notch collections of Native American, Spanish colonial and Latin American art. What's more, the museum is also home to the largest collection of Asian art in Texas, not to mention a respectable grouping of more contemporary pieces.
Visitors are consistently impressed by the rotating exhibits that feature work by renowned artists, such as Harry Bertoia.
The museum also holds a variety of special events every year ranging from film series to children's programs. If you don't make it here on your own, you'll find that it's a featured stop on many of the best San Antonio tours.
Address: 200 West Jones Ave.
Museums TYPE
2 hours to Half Day TIME TO SPEND
07. Spanish Governor's Palace
#7 in San Antonio0.7 miles to city center
Although it was never actually a palace, this adobe building certainly looks the part with rooms heavily decorated in 18th-century furnishings and a spectacular cobblestone patio.
This National Historic Landmark and former seat of the Spanish government (dating back to when San Antonio was the capital of Spain's Texas territory) caters to both history buffs and art lovers.
You can explore the property on your own or tag along on a guided tour during which staff members can explain everything from the building's general history to the intricate carvings on the doorways.
Recent visitors discourage visiting this site with kids, however, as there's little here to keep tots entertained. They also warn the palace doesn't take too long to go through, so history enthusiasts may be a bit disappointed.
Address: 105 Plaza de Armas
Sightseeing TYPE
1 to 2 hours TIME TO SPEND
08. San Antonio Zoo
#8 in San Antonio3.1 miles to city center
The San Antonio Zoo is a great alternative for animal-loving families who don't want to spend a fortune at SeaWorld San Antonio. This 56-acre facility is home to one of the largest animal collections in the country (more than 700 species reside here).
Exhibits include a butterfly habitat, four-legged friends from the African plains and colorful critters from the Amazon. Special events, such as animal feedings and various festivals, take place throughout the year.
Past travelers particularly enjoyed the expansive butterfly exhibit, while families appreciated the small train that winds through the zoo. And, according to some parents, one of the best things about this zoo is that visitors don't have to worry about running into a gift shop at every turn.
Address: 3903 North St. Mary's Street
Zoos and Aquariums TYPE
2 hours to Half Day TIME TO SPEND
09. Witte Museum
#10 in San Antonio3.2 miles to city center
For a relaxing and mostly air-conditioned afternoon, take your kids out for some educational amusement at the Witte Museum.
This often-overlooked site delves deep into natural science, anthropology and Texas history with exhibits featuring everything from dinosaurs to mummies to tarantulas.
You can also take an in-depth look back through Texas' intriguing past by exploring the historic log cabins located on the grounds. And don't forget to check out the rotating special exhibitions covering space and other fascinating topics.
This quirky site has grown in popularity over the years, and visiting families say its collections and interactive features entertain children of all ages.
Past visiors particularly praised the interactive exhibits, as well as the on-site rock climbing tower, as excellent ways to burn off some extra energy.
Address: 3801 Broadway Street
Museums TYPE
2 hours to Half Day TIME TO SPEND
33 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston Places to Visit
Tourist Attractions in Boston
33 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Boston Places to Visit
Discover the top-rated tourist attractions in Boston, a city rich in history and culture. Explore the must-visit places that showcase the charm of Beantown. Boston, often referred to as the "Cradle...
Learn More10. Natural Bridge Caverns
#11 in San Antonio20.6 miles to city center
The Natural Bridge Caverns are home to the biggest commercial cave system in Texas. Above-ground adventures include zip lining, a rope course, a maze, gem mining, shopping and dining.
But the primary reason to visit the caverns is to partake in one of the five underground tour options, which include tours lit by only lanterns and others that explore the caverns' hidden passages.
Recent visitors particularly enjoyed the area's cavern tours. That said, many travelers recommend skipping the rope course and zip line, saying that the offerings underwhelmed them.
Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd
Natural Wonders TYPE
Half Day to Full Day TIME TO SPEND
11. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
#12 in San Antonio20.9 miles to city center
Located about 25 miles northeast of downtown San Antonio, Natural Bridge Wildlife Park brings the feel (and some of the animals) of an African-style safari to Texas.
The ranch covers more than 450 acres and is populated with animals like southern white rhinoceroses, lemurs and Damaraland zebras. Hungry visitors can stop at the Safari Camp Grill, while the Safari Trading Post provides a number of knickknacks for purchase.
Past travelers generally enjoyed their experiences driving through the park. A handful of visitors were disappointed with the petting zoo portion of the ranch, though they conceded that it was still relatively entertaining for kids.
Address: 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd
Zoos and Aquariums TYPE
1 to 2 hours TIME TO SPEND
12. Six Flags Fiesta Texas
#13 in San Antonio13.3 miles to city center
Located about 17 miles northwest of downtown San Antonio, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a year-round destination for families and adrenalin seeking travelers. The park's more than 50 attractions run the gamut from coasters to slides to pools to go-karts.
With shopping options and an assortment of restaurants to boot, it's not hard to spend an entire day (or three) at Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
Past visitors particularly appreciated the water park at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, which provides relief on scorching summer days. But, a handful of reviewers note with disappointment that the water park was closed during their visit, so be sure to check beforehand.
Address: 17000 W IH 10
Amusement Parks TYPE
Half Day to Full Day TIME TO SPEND
13. San Antonio Botanical Garden
3.5 miles to city center
Nestled on the city's southeast side, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is a serene oasis of natural beauty and horticultural wonder. Spanning 38 acres, this enchanting garden is a haven for nature enthusiasts, families, and anyone seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life.
The garden's diverse collection of plants and landscapes showcases the rich biodiversity of Texas and beyond. As you wander through the meticulously curated gardens, you'll encounter a tapestry of colors and fragrances that change with the seasons. From vibrant spring blooms to the tranquil beauty of a winter garden, there's always something new to discover.
One of the highlights of the San Antonio Botanical Garden is the Lucile Halsell Conservatory, a collection of glass-enclosed biomes that transport visitors to different climates and ecosystems, from a lush tropical rainforest to a spiky desert landscape. It's a fascinating journey through the world of plants and an ideal escape from the Texas heat or inclement weather.
Families will appreciate the Family Adventure Garden, a dedicated space designed for interactive learning and play. Kids can explore treehouses, water features, and educational exhibits that teach them about the natural world in an engaging way.
The Japanese Tea Garden, located on the garden's grounds, is a historic and picturesque spot where you can enjoy a peaceful stroll around koi-filled ponds, intricately crafted stone bridges, and lush greenery. It's a serene escape that offers a glimpse into San Antonio's multicultural heritage.
Throughout the year, the San Antonio Botanical Garden hosts a variety of events and educational programs, including gardening workshops, plant sales, and art exhibits. It's a hub for both gardening enthusiasts and those looking to deepen their connection with nature.
Visiting the San Antonio Botanical Garden is not just a visual feast; it's an opportunity to reconnect with the natural world, learn about conservation efforts, and find inspiration in the beauty of plants and landscapes. Whether you're seeking a tranquil retreat, educational experiences, or simply a place to commune with nature, this botanical garden is a must-visit destination in San Antonio.
Address: 555 Funston Pl
Parks and Gardens TYPE
2 hours to Half Day TIME TO SPEND
14. Tower of the Americas
1.6 miles to city center
The Tower of the Americas stands tall and proud as an iconic symbol of San Antonio, Texas. Rising 750 feet into the Texas sky, this magnificent structure offers visitors a breathtaking experience that combines awe-inspiring views, delicious dining, and a fascinating history.
Built in 1968 for the World's Fair, the Tower of the Americas was once the tallest observation tower in the United States and continues to be a dominant feature on San Antonio's skyline. Its design, a sleek and futuristic concept, perfectly embodies the optimism and ambition of the era.
The tower's main attraction is its observation deck, which offers panoramic views of San Antonio and the surrounding Hill Country. From here, you can gaze out over the city's historic downtown, the lush greenery of Hemisfair Park, and even catch a glimpse of the San Antonio River winding its way through the city.
Thrill-seekers can take a ride on the Skies Over Texas 4D Theater Ride, a sensory experience that combines motion seating, 3D visuals, and special effects to simulate a thrilling journey across the Lone Star State.
For those seeking a more leisurely experience, the Chart House Restaurant, located at the top of the tower, offers a dining experience like no other. Enjoy delicious cuisine while slowly revolving, providing ever-changing views of the city below. It's the perfect setting for a romantic dinner or a special celebration.
The Tower of the Americas is also home to the Flags Over Texas Observation Deck, where you can explore the history and symbolism of the six flags that have flown over Texas throughout its storied past.
Whether you're visiting for the views, the dining, or the history, the Tower of the Americas is a San Antonio landmark that offers something for everyone. It's a testament to the city's growth and ambition, standing as a symbol of pride for both residents and visitors alike.
Address: 739 E César E. Chávez Blvd
Monuments and Memorials TYPE
Less than 1 hour TIME TO SPEND
15. Pearl Farmers Market
1.8 miles to city center
Nestled in the heart of San Antonio, Texas, the Pearl Farmers Market is a vibrant and bustling gathering place that epitomizes the city's rich cultural diversity and commitment to local sustainability. With a history dating back to the late 1800s, the Pearl District has evolved from a brewery into a thriving urban community, and the farmers market is a testament to its modern-day vitality.
Open every Saturday and Sunday, the Pearl Farmers Market offers visitors a sensory feast. As you approach the market, you're greeted by the lively hum of voices, the enticing aroma of freshly cooked food, and the colorful array of stalls brimming with fresh produce, artisanal products, and handmade crafts. It's a true celebration of local talent and flavor.
The market is a haven for food enthusiasts and locavores, with over 45 vendors showcasing their wares. You'll find everything from farm-fresh fruits and vegetables to artisan cheeses, honey, bread, and locally sourced meats. The variety of international cuisines available here is astounding, making it a culinary adventure for those looking to explore different flavors.
What truly sets the Pearl Farmers Market apart is its commitment to sustainable and ethical practices. Many of the vendors adhere to organic farming methods, reducing their environmental impact and providing consumers with healthier options. Moreover, the market fosters a sense of community by connecting shoppers directly with the producers, allowing for meaningful conversations about the origin and quality of the products.
Beyond the culinary delights, the market offers a platform for local artists and craftspeople to showcase their talents. You can discover unique handmade jewelry, pottery, clothing, and more, making it an excellent place to find one-of-a-kind souvenirs or gifts.
The atmosphere at the Pearl Farmers Market is enhanced by live music performances, creating a lively and convivial ambiance. Families with children will appreciate the kid-friendly activities and educational programs that teach youngsters about the importance of sustainable living and healthy eating.
Visiting the Pearl Farmers Market is not just a shopping excursion; it's an immersive cultural experience. You'll be surrounded by friendly faces, delectable aromas, and a sense of community that embodies the spirit of San Antonio. Whether you're a local looking for the freshest ingredients or a tourist seeking an authentic taste of the city, the Pearl Farmers Market is a must-visit destination.
Address: 312 Pearl Pkwy
Shopping TYPE
Less than 1 hour TIME TO SPEND
Things to Do in San Antonio Texas FAQs
Q: What is the best time to visit San Antonio?
A: The best time to visit San Antonio is during the spring and fall when the weather is pleasant for outdoor activities.
Q: How can I get around San Antonio?
A: San Antonio offers various transportation options, including buses, trolleys, rideshares, and bike rentals.
Q: Are there any free attractions in San Antonio?
A: Yes, many attractions in San Antonio, such as The Alamo and the San Antonio Museum of Art, offer free admission on certain days or during specific hours.
Q: What is the signature dish of Tex-Mex cuisine?
A: The signature dish of Tex-Mex cuisine is the delicious combination of tacos, enchiladas, and tamales.
Q: Is the River Walk accessible for individuals with disabilities?
A: Yes, the San Antonio River Walk is accessible, with ramps and elevators at key locations for wheelchair users.
Q: Can I purchase tickets in advance for attractions like SeaWorld?
A: Yes, it's advisable to purchase tickets in advance online to avoid long lines at popular attractions.
Conclusion
San Antonio, Texas, offers a delightful blend of history, culture, and excitement. Whether you're exploring historic landmarks, savoring Tex-Mex cuisine, or enjoying outdoor adventures, this city has something for everyone. Plan your trip to experience the 16 best things to do in San Antonio Texas, and make memories that will last a lifetime.
0 Comments