Officially called the City of San Antonio, this amazing destination is a bustling metropolis in the state of Texas in the United States of America. San Antonio is Spanish for St. Anthony because he was known for Spanish colonial and historic missions. If you’re looking to visit the city, you’re in luck! Here, we’ve put together a list of the top things to add to your itinerary if you’re in San Antonio. Are you visiting from afar? Are you a San Antonio local? No matter - there’s much in store for everyone. Just book a stay in one of the luxury hotels or Airbnbs with pool and let’s find out what the city has to offer us! Scroll down to discover the best things to do in San Antonio, Texas.
1. Visit the Pearl Brewery at Historic Market Square
This area dates back to as early as 1730 and the Historic Market Square operates in one of the original plazas where markets were held. A location that offers an array of opportunities for eating, drinking, and shopping, the Historic Market Square is a Mexican market that maintains its rich Hispanic influence. It houses the Historic Pearl, also known as the Pearl District, a former brewery that’s been redeveloped as a shopping and leisure center.
Pearl Brewery
Address: 303 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215, United States
Website: Pearl Brewery
Opening hours: 8am - 10pm (daily)
2. Check out San Antonio River Walk
Looking for a great river tour coupled with awesome food? The San Antonio River Walk is the place to be. It is open every day of the year and dotted with hotels, as well as dozens of restaurants and cafes that are shaded by colorful umbrellas. Boat rides are a must-do here. The walk downtown is incredible, thanks to the many bars and food scenes here, not to mention the amazing food trucks for hungry visitors. The River Walk goes winding down and connects several other tourist attractions to each other.
San Antonio River Walk and Tower of the Americas
Duration: 1 day
3. Have fun at Six Flags Fiesta (from USD 99.0)
Set in a former rock quarry, Six Flags Fiesta San Antonio is now one of the best amusement parks that boast the best adrenaline rush for the entire family. Buying the season pass for the family when going to this popular attraction is a value-buy. There are roller coasters, rides, live shows, food, beer (yeah, very important), and the best roller coaster ever! Hands already itching to try it out eh? Be sure to check the dates and timings before you go, since the park is open Thursday through Sunday. Online ticket purchase works out to be cheaper than buying it at the park, the same goes with the season pass package.
Go City: San Antonio Explorer Pass - Choose 2, 3, 4 or 5 Attractions
Duration: 60 days
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4. Dine at a Restaurant 750 ft (22.8 m) above ground level – Tower of the Americas (from USD 82.0)
Want to have a quiet (not so much) lunch with your loved one at a height of 750 ft (22.8 m) above ground level? Then head over to the Tower of the Americas, which is a remarkable San Antonio landmark overlooking Alamo City - it includes an observation deck, a revolving eatery (mm… very interesting), a bar (no, this one doesn’t revolve), and also a 4D adventure ride! The tower is located in downtown San Antonio, entry tickets are priced at USD 10.95 plus tax for the general public (adults). Children, senior citizens, and veterans have discounts!
San Antonio 48-Hour Hop-On Hop-Off Bus and Observation Tower
Duration: 2 days
5. Pet a dolphin at Seaworld San Antonio
Love to watch marine mammals at the Aquaria? You must head to the Seaworld which is a major attraction that includes an oceanarium, a marine mammal park as well as an animal theme park! This massive marine-themed amusement park features killer whales and beluga whales for animal-loving families and groups to have a look at. Get a close encounter with dolphins, penguins, and whatnot! Some of the attractions include roller coasters and thrill rides namely The Great White, and The Steel Eel. You can also try the awesomely tasting BBQ food available in the cafes there at Seaworld. There are a lot of options available while purchasing tickets online, so check out the official website before you make plans!
Seaworld San Antonio
Address: 10500 Sea World Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, United States
Website: Seaworld San Antonio
Opening hours: Thu - Fri: 10am - 6pm; Sat: 10am - 9pm; Sun: 10am - 6pm (closed on Mon - Wed)
6. Trek the forest trails of Brackenridge Park (from USD 26.0)
This is San Antonio’s public park, similar to the umpteen number of public parks available for the common man in the whole of the USA. Attractions inside the park include a zoo, and a narrow gauge SA Zoo Eagle Train ride (that sounds exciting!). There is also a Japanese Tea Garden that features shaded walkways! And not to forget the Botanical Garden as well! This is simply amazing stuff, for the nature lover, and children to start with. Lots of activities are ongoing in the park, you can choose to join them as a volunteer to do more!
San Antonio Zoo General Admission Ticket
Duration: 4 hours
7. Visit San Antonio Botanical Garden (from USD 15.0)
A beautifully maintained garden comprising all botanical species and genera, a gem for botanists and also for those who are interested in horticulture. As with other parks and gardens, it pays to become a member of such spots. You will be abreast with the events happening in the garden and also learn quite a bit. The Botanical Garden is open all around the year from 9 am to 5 pm. Members have free entry while the general public - adults are charged USD 10 for entry. This garden is highly suitable and recommended for people of all ages and is disabled-friendly as well. One of the most intriguing features at the Botanical Gardens is the Lucile Halsell Conservatory designed by Emilio Ambasz. Do check it out!
Admission to San Antonio Botanical Garden
Duration: 1 to 3 hours
8. Stop by Spanish Governor’s Palace
The former seat of the Spanish government, this historic building represents the remnants of the Presidio San Antonio de Bejar. The palace of the Spanish Governor of San Antonio will give you an insight into the Spanish rule that Texas state was under, until the 1800s. Colonial Spanish designs, and furniture, is what you will get to see here, and if you relish this historical stuff, this place is a must-visit. The Palace is closed on Mondays and opens the rest of the week.
Spanish Governor’s Palace
Address: 105 Plaza De Armas, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
Website: Spanish Governor’s Palace
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 5pm (closed on Mon)
9. Catch a Broadway Show at Majestic Theatre
A Broadway show in Texas? Yes, you heard it right. The Majestic Theatre in San Antonio is where you will find these Broadway shows running. The Mediterranean-styled beautiful classic theatre is popular with theatre-goers for Broadway shows. It is the perfect place for a concert owing to its excellent acoustics. The balcony seats are the best and this is the perfect kind of theatre for a Broadway show. Tickets can be availed online, and there are a variety of shows on the list. So what are you waiting for?
Majestic Theatre
Address: 224 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
Website: Majestic Theatre
10. Eat Mexican food at Mi Terra Café y Panaderia
Now, you must be wondering why we are even suggesting this to you when you are looking at a list of things you can do in San Antonio. Trust us, this is one thing you must try out when in San Antonio, Texas. Being located very close to Mexico, Texas is a thriving place for Mexican food, and who doesn’t love it? And there are many many Mexican food outlets in Texas. We suggest you eat at Mi Terra Cafe y Panaderia. Here’s why: Mi Terra Cafe is a San Antonio landmark, it goes without saying that this is like the Holy Grail of Mexican food in SA. This cafe is open 24x7 and provides classic fare, mariachi, and margaritas along with some baked goods! There is a vast number of dishes you would like to try, just step into the cafe for the experience and let the Mexican flavor overpower you! The cafe is located just a few blocks away from San Antonio’s River Walk, mentioned above.
Mi Terra Café y Panaderia
Address: 218 Produce Row, San Antonio, TX 78207, United States
Website: Mi Terra Café y Panaderia
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 8am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 8am - 11pm
11. Hike and bike at Government Canyon State Natural Area
As the title suggests, this activity is for the outdoorsy kind - if hiking and biking are what you like, then you must do it at the Government Canyon State Natural Area when you are in San Antonio. Open Friday through Monday and closed on the rest of the days of the week, an entry fee of USD 6 is charged per adult. Rugged hills and canyons typical of Texas Hill Country are what is preserved here. A fairly new preserve, but a very sought-after one at that. Bring out your outdoor best here! Some of the other activities include geocaching, trail running, and picnicking to name a few.
Government Canyon State Natural Area
Address: 12861 Galm Rd, San Antonio, TX 78254, United States
Website: Government Canyon State Natural Area
Opening hours: Fri - Mon: 7am - 10pm (closed on Tue - Thu)
12. See Texas Transportation Museum for vintage car/train lovers
Artifacts and information about San Antonio’s transportation history are what is preserved here. They have several model train layouts and road vehicles. Open on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday, they charge an entry fee of USD 6 per adult and USD 4 for a child. There are hourly train rides that kids will thoroughly enjoy, and this is highly recommended if you love anything vintage! The Christmas show - Santa’s Railroad Wonderland is something that is not to be missed. You can also ride on the Transylvania Express, go through the Ghost Train… Woohoo!!
Texas Transportation Museum
Address: 11731 Wetmore Rd, San Antonio, TX 78247, United States
Website: Texas Transportation Museum
Opening hours: Sat - Sun: 9am - 4pm (closed on Mon - Fri)
13. Marvel at Tower Life Building
A historic landmark in downtown San Antonio in the central business district, this tower has a height of above 400 ft and 30 stories. This tower is located on the banks of the famous San Antonio River Walk. The construction of this tower was completed right at the start of the Great Depression and is one of the major attractions of the San Antonio skyline.
Tower Life Building
Address: 310 S St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
Website: Tower Life Building
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 7am - 6pm; Sat: 8am - 1pm (closed on Sun)
14. Be awed by the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower
Also referred to as the Our Lady of Mount Carmel and Saint Therese Church. This is a very famous Roman Catholic Church located in San Antonio. The church is about 85 years old now, and still stands majestically, it is simply breathtaking to view it. The stained-glass paintings on the church are one of the many features of this church. Locals who frequent this church cannot stop praising the beautiful architecture, especially the altar. Feeling left out? Go and have a look at this wonderful place.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower
Address: 1715 N Zarzamora St, San Antonio, TX 78201, United States
Website: Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower
15. Spend a laidback afternoon at Victor Braunig Lake
For those who love to fish, and looking for a place to do so, if you are in San Antonio, head to Victor Braunig Lake! The lake was formed as a result of the construction of adam. The lake is said to be stocked with different species of fish which will help increase the usage of the reservoir lake for recreational fishing purposes. You can also camp and picnic here at the Lake. A very interesting feature for someone wanting to laze around but also do something.
Victor Braunig Lake
Address: 17500 Donop Road San Antonio, Texas 78223
Opening hours: 6am - 10pm (daily)
16. Have breakfast at Guenther House (from USD 95.0)
One of the best places to have breakfast, when in San Antonio. This place is in operation since the early 1900s and boasts some beautiful architecture and interiors. Lunch is also served here but this place is highly recommended for its beautifully tasting breakfast items. Open every day of the week, the Guenther House offers a free parking facility! Breakfast is served all day so you needn’t worry about it if you wake up late some day and wish to try eating at the Guenther House!!
San Antonio 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour and Buckhorn Saloon
Duration: 2 days
17. See the Alamo (from USD 65.0)
This can be said to be one of the most popular historical sites and the most important one for San Antonio as well as Texas itself. The San Antonio de Valero Mission is also referred to or known as the Alamo. Great for history enthusiasts, this landmark has a lot of significance due to the fact that the Alamo was actually the first Spanish mission built in order to educate the local, Native Americans who had converted to Christianity. 18th-century missions, such as Mission Espada, Mission San Juan, Mission San Jose, and Mission Concepcion are located here. The site was later used as a fortress, especially during the Battle of the Alamo in 1830 during the Texas Revolution. The landmark now houses water mills and a wide range of artifacts that are worth checking out, especially for history buffs. Also, when you are around this place in San Antonio, it is recommended that you witness the Alamo Plaza, which is a boulevard-styled street and a common and popular place for the locals of San Antonio.
San Antonio: City Sightseeing Van Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
18. Check out the exhibits at Ripley's Believe It or Not - Louis Tussaud's Museum
Now, this is something that everyone will want to experience at least once in their lifetimes. A Ripley Believe It or Not museum! Apart from the usual odd exhibits that we cannot trust whether they be true or not, this museum also houses wax structures of Louis Tussaud. Oddities or not, Ripley’s is the place to be! Open all through the week, and tickets start at USD 20.99 Do try to get a package so you can make the most of what you pay! If you’re fond of the oddities delivered by Ripley’s, you could also check out Ripley’s Haunted Adventure located just nearby for some fun things to do at night,
Ripley's Believe It or Not - Louis Tussaud's Museum
Address: 301 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
Website: Ripley’s Believe It or Not - Louis Tussaud’s Museum
Opening hours: Mon - Fri :10am - 6:30pm; Sat - Sun: 10am - 10pm
19. Explore Cascade Caverns
Did you know there was a “Down Under” in Texas as well? Ha, wondering what it can be. Cascade Caverns is a cave exploration activity in San Antonio. There are spectacular rock formations as well as weather inside (68F) that can cool you off the hot Texas sun. Several guided cavern tours are available, including underground tour options. If you are the type to venture on your own, feel free to do so. Enjoy the stalactites and stalagmites that just shine off the water-reflected light. Also, don’t miss the waterfall cascades. Apart from this, you could also camp and picnic at this spot.
Cascade Caverns
Address: 226 Cascade Cavern, Boerne, TX 78015, United States
Website: Cascade Caverns
Opening hours: 9am - 5pm (daily
20. Visit Cathedral of San Fernando (from USD 74.0)
Yet another cathedral of the Roman Catholic Church, this one is famous for its architecture and also the laser light show. This church is located in downtown San Antonio and was opened in the 17th century. The light show is a 24-minute joyful one, wherein lights are projected onto the cathedral. Visiting this cathedral is one of the best things to do this weekend, especially if you like architecture and also wish to enjoy the visual treat.
Historic San Antonio 2-Hour Segway Tour
Duration: 2 hours
21. Appreciate art at Marion Koogler McNay Art Museum
A Spanish-colonial home, modeled into a San Antonio museum of art. This museum holds not only interactive exhibits but also the largest collection of Asian arts. Impressive masterpieces of Pablo Picasso, Henri Matisse, and more are found here. Do pay a visit, if you are into arts!
Marion Koogler McNay Art Museum
Address: 6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78209, United States
Website: Marion Koogler McNay Art Museum
22. Have fun at Morgan’s Wonderland (from USD 17.0)
Ever heard of a not-for-profit theme park? Well, then you must visit Morgan’s Wonderland, which is a theme park of its own kind! Yes, it is a non-profit theme park – entry for people with special needs is absolutely free! Worried about the family and friends accompanying them – you needn’t worry, admission charges for them are very nominal – USD 17! Well, this applies even to the general public, woohoo that sounds awesome!
This theme park is something people of all ages will thoroughly enjoy. There are wheelchair swings, carousel rides, a pirate island playground and garden, and of course quite a few water-based rides. This theme park is something everyone should support because all the rides are disabled-friendly and physically challenged people, be they kids or adults, definitely are entitled to their share of fun. Morgan’s Wonderland is doing a wonderful job in this regard and they have welcomed at least 50,000 visitors in the past few years. Morgan’s is referred to as the “ultra-accessible family fun park” and it totally fits!
A top destination for families, this park ensures that all the sensory organs of your child are involved in every activity – making it the most enjoyable place on earth for kids and especially special needs children. The story behind the creation of such a theme park is kind of sad; the owner Gordon Hartman has a daughter named Morgan who has a cognitive delay. Apparently, as with other kids with special needs, Morgan was excluded from games and play by kids of her age. This inspired her dad to create this “wonderland” that he named after her.
There are several programs offered such as Boy/Girl Scouts, Educational Field trips, and Senior Fridays to name a few. They even offer season passes, and they cost very little when compared to other theme parks in the country. This isn’t enough for you, want more? Well, you can volunteer with the organization. That sounds so much fun! Well, what are you waiting for? Head to Morgan’s Wonderland as soon as you touch down in San Antonio!
Morgan's Wonderland Theme Park Admission in San Antonio
Duration: 1 to 8 hours
23. See what's happening at Freeman Coliseum
Freeman Coliseum is a concert and sports venue. The Coliseum has played host to a huge number of concerts, trade shows, motorsports, and sports such as basketball, bull riding, hockey, wrestling, and boxing! A few other events that are said to have taken place include auto shows and home shows, Chamber of Commerce Annual Meetings, Pittsburgh Symphony with Van Cliburn, Ballet Folklorico de Mexico, and more. The Rodeo is held here often and so are University graduation events – so this is quite a happening and busy place till today. Phew, that is a huge list!
Many top artists have made their concert debuts at this Coliseum and went on to make it big in the music industry – a lucky charm eh! It is said that in the 1960s, celebrities, such as Elvis Presley, Roy Rogers, and Lawrence Welk, performed at the Freeman Coliseum. So when you are in San Antonio, just head there for a glimpse of a concert venue that hosted several legends also an added bonus would be to watch and listen to upcoming stars who might be the kings of tomorrow!
Freeman Coliseum
Address: 3201 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78219, United States
Website: Freeman Coliseum
24. Experience the Iron Rattler
Iron Rattler is a steel roller coaster ride at the Six Flags Fiesta theme park in San Antonio, Texas. This is said to be the best roller coaster ride ever built on earth. It is exhilarating and also terrifying at the same time. So, if you wish to sit on a ride that you will remember all your life, it has to be the Iron Rattler. It is a 360-degree roll that you will experience nowhere else. So tighten your seatbelt and get ready for the ride of your lifetime!
Iron Rattler
Address: 17000 W I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257, United States
Website: Iron Rattler
25. Discover the Natural Bridge Caverns, Texas
This largest commercial cavern is located about half an hour from San Antonio. The name of this cavern comes from the fact that there is a 60 ft (18.3 m) natural limestone slab bridge that covers the amphitheater-type setting of the entrance of the cavern. It is open every day to the public from 9 am to 4 pm or 5 pm (just check the closing time in advance). It is advisable to purchase tickets online to get a reduced ticket price. Tickets are priced from USD 21.99 upwards for adults (discounted rate) and vary according to the packages available. You can pick and choose from the various activities available. There is quite a bit to be explored and it is all exciting stuff for kids and adults alike.
Natural Bridge Caverns
Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, United States
Website: Natural Bridge Caverns
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 9am - 4pm; Sat - Sun: 9am - 5pm
Where to stay in San Antonio
San Antonio is a vibrant part of Texas that boasts a perfect combination of community and greenery, not to mention the amazing accommodations such as cabins and bed and breakfasts. Situate yourself in La Villita, Downtown San Antonio, or King William to discover the best of this city.
La Villita
Stay in La Villita, a quirky neighborhood and historic arts village in the heart of San Antonio where many young people flock to the vibrant establishments. Situated on the south bank of River Walk, this district is great for tourists and first-time travelers making their rounds in Texas. Common accommodations here include trendy apartments, homestays, and boutique hotels - a little bit of everything for any type of traveler.
Downtown San Antonio
Also known as River Walk, Downtown San Antonio is close to many local attractions and historic landmarks, some of which include the Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site you can’t miss out on. Those who need to get some work done will have their pick of charming cafes shaded by colorful umbrellas for a productive afternoon out. Everything is quite walkable in this neighborhood, and many small businesses thrive here along with a few farmers markets that tourists will surely appreciate.
King William
King William is another arts district where you can base yourself since it’s trendy and filled with entertaining things to see and do. This part of San Antonio boasts museums, galleries, and boutiques. Travelers who wish to stay somewhere modern and eclectic will find a range of stylish apartments and aesthetically pleasing guest homes to choose from.
For a top-notch vacation in San Antonio, we recommend booking these amazing places to stay:
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