What to Do in San Antonio Texas?

San Antonio, Texas is a vibrant city filled with entertainment and welcoming culture. Full of attractions, parks and museums, it’s a great place to visit for a day or a few days. For those looking to take in the culture, there are activities to suit any budget and any group size. Here’s what to do in San Antonio Texas.

Visit the Alamo

A visit to San Antonio would not be complete without visiting the Alamo. Not only is the site an important part of Texas’ rich history, but also has a fascinating collection of artifacts and interesting exhibits. The Alamo is open year round, and admission is free for everyone. Make sure to plan ahead and find out when you can watch the Changing of the Guard which happens every hour during summer (April–Sept).

Shop and Eat at Market Square

Head to Market Square, one of San Antonio’s most popular spots. Filled with vendors, restaurants and street performers, Market Square is a great place to spend an afternoon browsing the various shops and eateries. Be sure to keep an eye out for El Mercado, a unique souvenir shop that sells everything from sombreros to handcrafted jewelry.

Go for a Stroll Along the San Antonio River Walk

The San Antonio River Walk is one of the city’s biggest attractions. People come from around the world to browse restaurants, stores, hotels and pubs located along the river’s winding path. With plenty of events and activities taking place all year, the River Walk is one of the best ways to spend a day in San Antonio. Take a boat ride down the river and catch some of the best views of the city.

Explore the San Antonio Missions

Designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 2015, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park includes four different missions: Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada. Free from charge, the four missions can easily be explored in a day if you want to explore all four sites. Note that driving between sites is required if you want to explore all four. May-September are ideal times to visit the Missions due to warm weather and shorter wait times.

Visit the San Antonio Zoo

Located just north of downtown San Antonio, the San Antonio Zoo features more than 3,500 animals representing 750+ species and many interactive attractions like giraffe feedings, African aviary and more. Open year-round, visitors can go on park-wide scavenger hunts and ride the carousel or train for a small fee. Our personal favorite is the brand new Koala Encounter, where visitors can get up close and personal with Koalas from Australia.

Stop into the Witte Museum

Housed in one of San Antonio’s oldest museums, the Witte Museum offers an interactive educational experience for everyone. With over 5 acres of engaging exhibits about nature, science and culture, it’s one of our favorite family activities in San Antonio Texas. Check out their calendar for some of the more in-depth experiences like behind-the-scenes tours and hands-on workshops by scientists and curators.

Cool off at Lurleen’s Uptown Swimming Pool

For those who are looking for ways to cool off from all the Texas heat, head down to Lurleen’s Uptown Swimming Pool, called “Lurleen Park” by locals., Located North East of Downtown San Antonio, Lurleen’s Uptown Swimming Pool is open year round, rain or shine and offers something for everyone – lounge deck, zero depth entry pool with waterslides, playgrounds and picnic areas. Soak up some sun on one of the chaise lounges while the kids work up a sweat running around playing water games in the pool area.

In conclusion, there’s something to do in San Antonio Texas for everybody. Whether it’s visiting historical sites or having a picnic in a park with your family, there are plenty of great attractions that will make your trip unforgettable!

An Insider’s Guide to San Antonio, Texas: Discovering Hidden Gems and Local Flavors

San Antonio, Texas – a city rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. It is home to famous landmarks such as the Alamo and the River Walk, but let’s delve deeper into what else this city has to offer. Here’s an insider’s guide to San Antonio, Texas, that takes you beyond the typical tourist hotspots and helps you discover hidden gems and local flavors that make the city truly unique.

Discovering Hidden Gems: Local Attractions

Beyond the River Walk and the Alamo, San Antonio has plenty of lesser-known and equally mesmerizing attractions. For instance, the McNay Art Museum is a beautiful art-deco mansion turned museum that houses collections by renowned artists such as Pablo Picasso and Salvador Dali. Or visit The Japanese Tea Garden, which features lush gardens, tranquil waterfalls, and a pagoda tower, making it perfect for a serene and peaceful walk. For the adventurous, check out the Natural Bridge Caverns, an underground cave system filled with mystical rock formations.

Taste of San Antonio: Dining Spots

San Antonio is known for its bold flavors, Tex-Mex cuisine, and spicy southwestern flavors. Don’t leave before trying the city’s iconic dish, the puffy taco, at Ray’s Drive Inn or Taco Taco Cafe. Hot Joy is an exciting Asian fusion spot with whimsical dishes such as pork belly steam buns and crispy fried chicken. For something sweet, head to Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia for a classic Mexican pastry called a concha.

Explore San Antonio’s Culture: Festivals, Art, and Music

San Antonio has a vibrant and culturally diverse community, demonstrated through its numerous festivals and celebrations. The San Antonio Fiesta is the city’s biggest fiesta that honors the Battle of San Jacinto and brings together locals and visitors alike in a week-long party. For a different cultural experience, check out the Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center, a hub for Latino culture in San Antonio that showcases art exhibitions, film screenings, concerts, and dance performances. And, the San Antonio Symphony offers a unique musical experience with its diverse range of performances, from Beethoven to Broadway.

San Antonio’s History: Captivating Stories from the Past

San Antonio is steeped in history spanning topics such as the Alamo, Spanish colonization, and Native American tribes. For example, the Spanish Governor’s Palace, located in downtown San Antonio, was built in the early 18th century and served as the seat of government for Spanish Texas. Another historic site is the King William Historic District, a beautiful enclave of Victorian-era homes turned into a quirky neighborhood of shops, museums, and eateries.

Off-the-Beaten-Path: Unique Experiences

For a different kind of adventure, take a trip to the Mitchell Lake Audubon Center, where you’ll get to witness an excellent selection of wildlife, including migratory birds, bobcats, and deer. The Pearl Brewery District is also worth checking out, as it has been transformed from a 19th-century brewery to a trendy neighborhood with a farmers market, theater, and artisan shops. Finally, rent a kayak or paddleboard and embark on an epic journey through San Antonio’s waterways, where you’ll get to experience the city’s natural beauty at your own pace.

San Antonio doesn’t disappoint. From exciting local attractions to delicious culinary experiences, a wealth of cultural events, and a rich history, this city has something for everyone. Our insider’s guide provides a snapshot of what makes San Antonio unique. Remember, there’s always something new to discover in this fascinating Texan city.