San Antonio is a thriving city with a lively culture that gives Texans a great deal of pride. There are a lot of fun things to do, like the famed River Walk, mission trails, art galleries, the light show at the San Fernando Cathedral, Hispanic culture with a touch of Mexico, and great food.
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Outdoor enthusiasts will enjoy the sun, and those wanting a refuge can tuck into the Natural Bridge Caverns or the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Thrill seekers will find joy at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Active folks who want to be on their feet should check out the city’s trails which outline walkways. Find out what else there is to do below!
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Pearl District
If you’re planning a trip to San Antonio, be sure to add the Pearl District to your list of places to visit. This vibrant neighborhood is filled with great restaurants, bars, shops, and art galleries. There’s something for everyone in the Pearl District!
Start your day by exploring the many art galleries in the area. You’ll find everything from traditional paintings to modern sculptures. Then, grab a bite to eat at one of the delicious restaurants. For dinner, enjoy some authentic Texas BBQ or Mexican food. After dinner, head to one of the Pearl District’s bars or clubs for a night out on the town. You can dance the night away or simply relax with a drink in hand. The Pearl District also hosts the Pearl Farmers Market on Saturday mornings.
303 Pearl, atpearl.com
Photo credit: tripadvisor.com
The San Antonio River Walk
San Antonio’s River Walk is one of the most popular tourist destinations in Texas. Stretching along both sides of the San Antonio River, the River Walk offers visitors a chance to experience the city’s rich culture and history.
With its many restaurants, shops, and attractions, the River Walk is the perfect place to spend a day or two exploring everything that San Antonio has to offer. Here are just a few of the things you can do while you’re here:
- Visit the Alamo
- Take a riverboat ride
- Explore the San Antonio Zoo
As you can see, there is plenty to do at San Antonio’s River Walk. Whether you’re looking for a place to eat, shop, or explore, you’ll find it all here.
849 E Commerce St, thesanantonioriverwalk.com
Photo credit: San Antonio Museum of Art
San Antonio Museum of Art
The San Antonio Museum of Art houses a vast collection of history covering a span of over 5,000 years. Visitors can see exhibitions depicting a variety of historical events and settings. The museum showcases significant pieces of Latin American, Pre-Columbian, Asian, and Contemporary art, as well as important works from Greek, Roman, and Egyptian antiquities, all of which are displayed with highly comprehensive descriptions. Of course, upon exiting, there’s a gift shop and café.
200 W Jones Ave, samuseum.org
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
As one of the top tourist destinations in Texas, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a must-see for anyone visiting Lone Star State. This world-class amusement park features over 100 rides, shows, and attractions, making it the perfect place for a family day out.
Whether you’re looking for high-octane thrills or gentle family fun, Six Flags Fiesta Texas has something for everyone. The park is home to some of the most iconic rides in the world, including the Batman: The Ride roller coaster and the Superman: Krypton Coaster. For those who prefer a more relaxed pace, there are plenty of rides and attractions geared toward young children and families. The park offers a water park, as well as fireworks displays and mariachi shows. Be sure to check the park’s website for its current schedule before your visit, as park hours are subject to change.
17000 W I-10, sixflags.com/fiestatexas
Photo credit: wikimedia.org
Guenther House
Visit Guenther House, the acclaimed restaurant of flour milling pioneer Carl Hilmar Guenther, for a unique culinary experience. This historic mansion has been elegantly rebuilt and offers a tour. Guests have two options- a scheduled tour before or after dining at the restaurant, which is open every day for breakfast and lunch. Their restaurant offers an All-American Breakfast, signature lunches, baked fresh daily pastries, and custom-roasted Founder’s Choice Coffee. The downstairs has ballroom-style seating and displays the turn of the 20th-century style used in hotels and restaurants. Guenther also provides outdoor dining for guests to enjoy while taking in the sights and sounds of downtown.
205 E Guenther St, guentherhouse.com
Buckhorn Saloon and Museum
The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Antonio. This historic bar and museum are located in the heart of downtown San Antonio, and it is known for its unique atmosphere and interesting exhibits. The Buckhorn Saloon was established in 1881, and it has been serving customers since then. The bar is decorated with a variety of taxidermy animals, including deer, buffalo, and elk. The museum portion of the attraction features a variety of artifacts from the Old West, including guns, saddles, and cowboy hats. Visitors can also purchase souvenirs at the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum.
Today, the saloon has grown to include the Buckhorn Museum and Texas Ranger Museum, which houses hundreds of Texas Ranger artifacts. In addition to its museums, the saloon also has a cafe and a gift shop. And if that’s not enough, there’s also a shooting gallery!
318 E Houston St., buckhornmuseum.com
San Antonio Botanical Garden
The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a 38-acre garden located in the heart of San Antonio, Texas. The garden serves as a museum of plants and is also a research and conservation facility. It is an entertainment venue for art, architecture, music, and theater experiences. The Botanical Garden can be rented for meetings and luncheons weddings and birthdays. Some of its attractions include the Daniel Sullivan carriage house, a bird-watching structure, and the Lucile Halsell Conservatory. When hunger strikes, pop into the garden’s cute cafe for a delicious sandwich and a refreshing drink.
555 Funston Pl., sabot.org
Photo credit: flickr.com
San Antonio Zoo
San Antonio Zoo covers 35 acres and is home to over 3,500 animals. Fun fact- This was also the first zoo in North America to successfully raise the critically endangered white rhinoceros. Some of the zoo’s most popular attractions include its Zoo Train, Flamingo Mingle, Lory Landing, and Giraffe Feeding areas. The San Antonio Zoo, hidden away in a former limestone quarry, is open every day of the year for sightseeing. While there, don’t forget to visit the Zootennial main plaza, which features a fantastic restaurant and a unique carousel.
3903 N St Mary’s St., sazoo.org
Confluence Park
Confluence Park is located at the convergence of the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek. It is also the site of the Confluence Theatre, a small black box theatre operated by the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center. The park is adjacent to the University of Texas at San Antonio’s Downtown Campus.
The park was created as part of a major redesign of the downtown San Antonio riverfront area, which began in 1998. The project was overseen by world-renowned landscape architect Peter Walker and his firm, PWP Landscape Architecture. Confluence Park opened to the public in May 2009.
The park features a variety of native plant species, including live oak trees, yucca plants, and cacti. There is also a butterfly garden and a rainwater harvesting system that captures and recycles rainwater for use in the park’s irrigation system.
Confluence Park is open daily from dawn to dusk. Admission is free.
310 W Mitchell St., sariverfound.org/confluence-park
Mission San Jose
Mission San Jose is a beautiful Spanish mission located in San Antonio, Texas. The mission was built in the early 18th century and was the first of several missions established in the area. The mission grounds are beautiful and well-preserved, and the nearby museum is definitely worth a visit.
It is a part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a national historical park that is also a component of a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The other missions include Mission Concepción, Mission Espada, Mission San Juan Capistrano, and Mission Concepción. Before beginning your stroll around the tranquil gardens, you can discover more about the stunning original structures’ reconstruction and restoration by viewing their short documentary.
The Mission features a wonderful gift shop and free admission. If you’re interested in Texas history or just want to see a beautiful piece of architecture, be sure to add Mission San Jose to your list!
701 E Pyron Ave, nps.gov/saan/planyourvisit/sanjose
Photo credit: flickr.com
Monster Mini Golf
Monster Mini Golf is a state-of-the-art, indoor, climate-controlled attraction that includes an 18-hole miniature golf course that is perfect for the whole family. The facility is completely under the luminescent glow of black lights and also features a high-tech video game arcade and Monstrous prize center. Other attractions include mini golf, laser tag, laser maze, and Hologate. It opens on Mondays through Saturdays from 12 p.m. to 10 p.m. and on Sundays starting from 12 p.m. to 8 p.m.
2267 NW Military Hwy, monsterminigolf.com
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The Tower of the Americas
The Tower of the Americas is a 750-foot-tall tower located in downtown San Antonio, in the Hemisfair neighborhood. From the tower’s revolving Chart House Restaurant, visitors can take in the gorgeous panorama of the cityscape. The Observation Deck offers a great view as well, and for those who want an even more thrilling experience, the 4D Theater Ride is sure to please. Private events can be held at the Tower as well.
739 E César E. Chávez Blvd, toweroftheamericas.com
King William Historic District
The King William Historic District is one of San Antonio’s oldest neighborhoods. Dating back to the 1800s, this district is home to some of the city’s most historic and beautiful homes. While many of these homes have been converted into museums, including Villa Finale and Steves Homestead, there are still many others that line the streets in this district. King William Park features a picturesque gazebo, palm trees, and walking paths to explore, while Roosevelt Park is home to a sprawling public pool. For a short or long stroll or bike ride, Mission Reach offers beautiful views of the San Antonio River and the Missions. To dine in this historic district, Liberty Bar is a favorite for custard French toast and huevos benedictinos as well as creative sourdough pizzas. Hot Joy is a ramen place filled with murals, art hanging from the ceiling, and LED signs.
701 King William St, ourkwa.org
Photo credit: morganswonderland.com
Morgan’s Wonderland
Morgan’s Wonderland is a theme park designed with individuals with special needs in mind. It offers 25 Ultra-Accessible™ attractions sprawled across a 25-acre oasis of inclusion, which includes a wheelchair-accessible Ferris wheel and catch-and-release fishing. The theme park now has two parks – Morgan’s Wonderland and Morgan’s Inspiration Island. Morgan’s Wonderland offers “dry” attractions such as Carousel, Whirling Wonder Ferris Wheel, and Wonderland Express train, while Morgan’s Inspiration Island is composed of five splash pads and a sensory-friendly boat ride.
5223 David Edwards Dr, morganswonderland.com
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a Texas-style ranch that offers visitors the opportunity to see 45 distinct kinds of animals roaming freely around over 400 acres of tree-lined, gently sloping hills. The drive-through safari features 500 animals, including zebras, wildebeest, and big birds like emus and ostriches. Inside the ranch, you’ll find the Safari Trading Post, a nature-oriented gift store selling anything from t-shirts to adorable plush friends and Safari-specific souvenirs. There’s also the Safari Camp Grill if you get hungry and the Safari Sweet Spot if you need refreshing snacks. Overall, the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch makes for a great day trip for anyone interested in getting up close and personal with some amazing wildlife.
26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, wildliferanchtexas.com
SeaWorld San Antonio
SeaWorld San Antonio is a 250-acre marine park and oceanarium. It was opened in 1988 and is the world’s biggest aquatic theme park. The park is home to a variety of animals, including penguins, dolphins, seals, otters, sea lions, sting rays, eels, American alligators, tropical fish, whales, and flamingos. The park also features killer whales, belugas, and dolphins that have been trained and are included in the most popular performances. There is a huge selection of family-friendly activities and attractions at SeaWorld San Antonio, including roller coasters, shows, rides, excursions, and animal attractions.
10500 SeaWorld Dr, seaworld.com/san-antonio
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Photo credit: flicker.com
The Alamo
The Alamo is a fort located in present-day San Antonio, Texas. It was the site of an important battle during the Texas Revolution. The Battle of the Alamo took place on March 6, 1836. The Mexican army, led by General Antonio López de Santa Anna, attacked the fort in an attempt to retake control of Texas from the rebel forces. The small group of Texans who were defending the fort refused to surrender. After a 13-day siege, the Mexicans finally succeeded in breaching the walls of the fort. All of the defenders were killed. The battle proved to be a turning point in the war and helped ensure Texan independence from Mexico. Today, the Alamo is a popular tourist destination and an important historical site in Texas history.
300 Alamo Plaza, thealamo.org
Brackenridge Park
If you’re looking for a place to spend the afternoon in San Antonio, look no further than Brackenridge Park. This 343-acre historical landmark was created in 1899 and is home to 2.8 miles of paths for bikers and runners, as well as the Witte Museum, which features artifacts and photographs from the area’s history. You can also visit the playground, San Antonio Zoo, or take a miniature train ride around the park. And if that’s not enough, there’s also the Sunken Garden Theater for concerts and food festivals. Brackenridge Park is also home to the oldest municipal golf course in Texas.
3700 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, brackenridgepark.org/visit-the-park
The Natural Bridge Caverns
Natural Bridge Caverns is a family-owned and operated business that offers cavern tours to the public. These tours include the Discovery Tour, which takes visitors 180 feet below ground to see some of the most impressive stalagmites, stalactites, flowstones, chandeliers, and soda straws. The Hidden Passages Tour offers a more in-depth exploration of the caverns, featuring huge underground chambers decorated with delicate formations. In addition to cavern tours, Natural Bridge Caverns offers surface attractions such as the Discovery Village Mining Co., Clip & Climb Course, and Combo Twisted Trails.
26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, naturalbridgecaverns.com
Ranger Stream Brewing and Distilling
Ranger Stream Brewing and Distilling is a commercial microbrewery and distillery that produces a variety of handcrafted beer and whiskey. Oatmeal Pale Ale, Red Headed Strangler, and other small-batch artisan beers are produced by Ranger Creek, the only “brewstillery” in Texas, in addition to other Texan wineries. There’s also The Tasting Room, which offers a modest rotating menu of seasonal fare that pairs perfectly with the golden liquids, making it the greatest spot to sample the brewery’s goods. On Saturdays, a distinctive and instructive brewery tour is provided where you may discover how beer and bourbon are produced.
4834 Whirlwind Dr, drinkrangercreek.com
Photo credit: flicker.com
The McNay Art Museum
The McNay Art Museum, located in San Antonio, Texas, is the first modern art museum in the state and is housed in a Spanish Colonial-Revival home. The museum was founded by Marion Koogler McNay, who was an avid art collector. The McNay Art Museum has since expanded to include more than 22,000 works from the Medieval and Renaissance periods, 19th- through 21st-century European and American paintings, sculptures, and photographs. The museum also has an impressive collection of prints and drawings in the Southwest, as well as the Tobin Collection of Theatre Arts, the Jeanne and Irving Mathews Collection of Art Glass, and the Art of New Mexico.
6000 N New Braunfels Ave., TX mcnayart.org
Wildseed Farms
Wildseed Farms is the largest working wildflower farm in the Texas Hill Country. Spanning 200 acres of land, the farm has a wide variety of both native and tropical plants in various stages of development. In addition to offering wine tastings and specialty food samplings, Wildseed Farms also has a vineyard and tasting room for visitors to enjoy.
100 Legacy Dr, Fredericksburg, wildseedfarms.com
Ghost tour
A city with San Antonio’s history must have some eerie elements in it, right? If you want to experience some thrills, you must take the ghost tour. These tours can be taken at any time and do not necessarily need to be in October. You can choose between a walking tour or a bus tour, where you’ll be taken to various locations where there is reputed to be some paranormal activity.
204 Alamo Plaza Suite #T,
San Fernando Cathedral
San Fernando Cathedral is the oldest cathedral in the United States and the oldest church building in Texas. It is located in downtown San Antonio, Texas, USA. The cathedral is named for Saint Ferdinand III, the patron saint of Spain. It is the mother church of the Archdiocese of San Antonio and the seat of its archbishop.
The original church on this site was built in 1738 by Spanish missionaries. The current structure dates from 1868 and was designed by French architect Francois Giraud. The cathedral is built of limestone blocks quarried from nearby Laredo, Texas.
The exterior of the cathedral features twin towers that rise to a height of 120 feet (37 meters). The interior of the cathedral is decorated with stained glass windows and murals. The cathedral is open to the public for tours and Masses.
San Fernando Cathedral is one of the most popular tourist attractions in San Antonio. It is also one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. The cathedral has been featured in several movies and television shows, including The Alamo (1960), Texas (1982), and Lonesome Dove (1989).
115 Main Plaza, sfcathedral.org
The DoSeum
If you’re looking for an educational and fun-filled day out in San Antonio, the DoSeum is the perfect place to take the kids. With interactive exhibits and hands-on activities, they’re sure to learn something new while having a blast. The DoSeum has something for everyone, with exhibits on science, technology, engineering, art, and math. There are also plenty of opportunities to get moving, with a three-story climbable treehouse and a water play area.
And if you need a break from all the excitement, the cafe has snacks and drinks to keep you going. So why not add the DoSeum to your list of must-visit destinations in San Antonio? Thanks to exhibits like a musical staircase, an interactive robot, and a spy school full of math difficulties, as well as a tree house and three enormous water play areas, kids will certainly enjoy their time here!
2800 Broadway, TX thedoseum.org
Market Square
When visiting San Antonio, be sure to check out the historic Market Square – one of the city’s most vibrant and popular areas. This historic district is home to a variety of shops, restaurants, and businesses, as well as a thriving arts scene. There’s always something going on at Market Square, so it’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon or evening exploring.
If you’re looking for some shopping, you’ll find everything from local boutiques to major retailers in the area. If you’re hungry, there are plenty of great places to eat, whether you’re looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal. And if you want to experience some of San Antonio’s culture, there are often live music and dance performances taking place in the square.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, Market Square is definitely worth a visit. It’s one of the best places in the city to experience all that San Antonio has to offer.
514 W Commerce St, 78207 marketsquaresa.com
Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden is a meticulously maintained city garden in the tranquil spaces of the greater Brackenridge Park grounds. If you’re already touring the adjacent DoSeum Museum in San Antonio, it’s one of the nicest things to do with kids. Inside, you can explore the elaborate gardens, spot the enormous waterfall, and meander around the koi carp pools. Nearby is the Witte Museum is nearby.
3853 N St Mary’s St,
Fiesta
Fiesta is a time-honored tradition in San Antonio, Texas. Held annually in April, Fiesta commemorates the heroes of the Alamo and San Jacinto battles. The celebration began in 1891 and has grown into a spectacle with over 50 activities all across the city. Be sure to attend the Fiesta de Los Reyes at Market Square and the Texas Cavaliers River Parade, both of which are hosted in the San Antonio River.
110 Broadway Street, Suite 350, fiestasanantonio.org
Photo credit: flicker.com
Majestic Theater
If you enjoy Broadway, seeing a performance at the renowned outdoor Majestic Theater will brighten your day! The theater is both the largest and the oldest in San Antonio. In 1993 received the designation of National Historic Landmark. Another accomplishment of the theater was that it was the first theater in the state to have complete air conditioning. Mind you, this Texas heat is no joke. This is a great place for a relaxed daytime performance or a chance to dress up in the evening!
224 E Houston St, majesticempire.com
Pearl Brewery
If you’re ever in San Antonio, Texas, be sure to check out the Pearl Brewery. It’s a great place to grab a beer and explore the city. The brewery has a rich history dating back to the 1800s, and it’s now one of the most popular tourist destinations in the area. There’s something for everyone at the Pearl Brewery, so be sure to add it to your list of places to visit while in San Antonio! The Pearl Brewery is located in the heart of downtown San Antonio near the River Walk. The area surrounding the brewery has been revitalized in recent years, and it’s now home to several restaurants, bars, and shops.
The brewery itself offers tours, tastings, and a variety of events throughout the year. There’s also a beer garden where you can enjoy a cold one while taking in the sights and sounds of the city. Whether you’re a local or from out of town, the Pearl Brewery is definitely worth a visit. It’s a great place to relax, grab a drink, and learn about the history of San Antonio.
303 Pearl Pkwy, atpearl.com
Windflower Spa
Windflower Spa is a sanctuary for the senses, set amidst 300 acres of wildflowers and meadows. Located at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort and Spa, Windflower Spa provides a range of soothing treatments that use native Hill Country ingredients. Services include manicures, pedicures, body scrubs, facials, massages, and more. The eucalyptus steam room, dry sauna, and jetted tub offer a variety of relaxation options, while the heated outdoor pool completes the experience.
9800 Hyatt Resort Dr., Windflower-The-Hill-Country-Spa/home
If you’re looking for a fun and exciting getaway, be sure to add San Antonio to your list. There is no shortage of things to do in this vibrant city – from world-class museums and attractions to delicious food and nightlife, San Antonio has something for everyone. And with Dallas and Austin just a drive away, you won’t regret adding it to your vacation itinerary. Have you been to San Antonio? What was your favorite thing to do there?
