Looking for the best things to do in San Antonio?? Here’s the list with all the information that you need when planning your family vacation.
San Antonio is one of the major cities in south-central Texas that has a rich colonial heritage. And the iconic landmarks like the Alamo, San Antonio River Walk, and San Antonio Missions National Historical Park will prove the city’s historical value.
Also, San Antonio is a great place for foodies because there’re plenty of delicious dining places in the Pearl District. More than that, you can enroll in cooking classes at the Culinary Institute of America.
You can participate in fun festivals like Fiesta San Antonio, visit entertaining amusement parks, visit plenty of museums, visit zoos, camp at excellent RV camps, and do many adventures too.
Just check the following list of “best and fun things to do in San Antonio” add favorites to your bucket list.
Things to Do in San Antonio
1. Things to Do in San Antonio: San Antonio River Walk
Starting from San Antonio Springs, the San Antonio River flows to the ocean at San Antonio Bay on the Gulf of Mexico.
It is the major waterway in the city. And San Antonio River Walk or Paseo del Río runs along this special river through the middle of the city.
Being the most popular park in the city, San Antonio River Walk contains scenic stone walkways and tons of delicious restaurants lined.
Set one level down from the automobile street, San Antonio River Walk offers you a relaxing surrounding with calm waters, plenty of shade from large trees on river banks, graceful bridges, and various birds.
And also features hotels, live music, other entertainment options, and several tourist attractions. (Ex: The Museum Reach, historic Pearl Brewery complex, and San Antonio Museum of Art)
Therefore, locals and tourists visit this park to enjoy the beauty while having some delicious foods. And some take lovely dinner cruises or barge tours too. So, choose your favorite way to explore the San Antonio River.
Normally, the barge is the most common thing, and it can hold up to 40 passengers. But, if you are planning for a romantic dinner cruise or a family dinner cruise, the barge is set with tables and food for 20 passengers.
This slow-moving cruise is the best way to explore the beauty of the city. Or you can rent a bike to ride along the San Antonio River Walk.
Address: 849 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States Phone: +1 210-227-4262
Things to Do in San Antonio
2. Things to Do in San Antonio: San Antonio Museum of Art
When you are on San Antonio River Walk, do not miss The Museum Reach, which is a 1.33-mile extension that features a range of visual and audiovisual works of art, access to the San Antonio Museum of Art, terraces landscapes with native plants, and the access to the Pearl Brewery complex.
Being the only encyclopedic fine art museum in South Texas, the San Antonio Museum of Art features a huge collection of impressive artworks.
And it represents more than 5,000 years of history and global culture, including Asian, Latin American, Ancient Mediterranean Art, and a unique collection of Oceanic Art.
That’s why it considers one of the top tourist attractions in San Antonio.
San Antonio Museum of Art also hosts special art programs (for kids, students, and adults) and art exhibitions too.
Address: 200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215, United States Phone: +1 210-978-8100
Things to Do in San Antonio
3. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Being a part of a UNESCO World Heritage Site, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park preserves four of the five Spanish frontier missions in San Antonio, TX. And they are Concepción, San José, San Juan and Espada.
This attractive, historic mission was founded in 1720, targeting to expand Spanish influence from Mexico to the North. Catholic missionaries wanted to convert the Indians in the town into Catholics and make them Spanish citizens.
Unfortunately, San Antonio Missions was gradually declined after the 1833 Mexican secularization act. Then, it has been reconstructed and restored over the years.
Now you can see the ruins of historic missions, the mill at Mission San José, old churches, a 270-year old irrigation system called the Espada acequia with the ten-miles long Mission Riverwalk and its dam.
Also, there’s a scenic hiking trail called Mission Riverwalk filled with diverse birds and interesting nature. Try it too.
San Antonio Missions is located just 3 miles from downtown. So, you can easily get there and learn the whole story of this mission on your tour.
Address: 6701 San Jose Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214, United States Phone: +1 210-534-8875
Things to Do in San Antonio
4. Things to Do in San Antonio: The Alamo
Built in 1718, The Alamo Mission or Misión San Antonio de Valero is one of the most famous historic sites in the city.
It is a historic Spanish mission and fortress compound constructed by Roman Catholic missionaries who lived in San Antonio in the 18th century. Yes, your guess is correct; it is a part of the mission station.
The Battle of the Alamo is one of the most important and famous battles in United States history. It happened against a Mexican army of 3,000 by a small force in the Alamo Mission in 1836.
All the defenders were killed during the Battle of the Alamo, including the legendary American fighters James Bowie and Davy Crockett.
Therefore, it became a major historical monument of Texan independence under the heart-felt theme, “Remember the Alamo!“.
So, surely visit the Alamo to learn more about Texan history.
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States Phone: +1 210-225-1391
Things to Do in San Antonio
5. Things to Do in San Antonio: Main Plaza
Being the historic heart of San Antonio, the Main Plaza is a large public square located between the San Antonio River and the San Fernando Cathedral. And it offers space for the community to gather and experience various entertainment events.
The Main Plaza was built in the 1700s, and it features well-maintained landscaping with water fountains, huge trees, shady sidewalks, and picnic tables.
Since the oldest cathedral in the country, San Fernando Cathedral, is located on the Main Plaza square, you can visit it there too.
After that, you can sit at a lunch table and have lunch.
Or you can participate in entertainment programs, live music concerts, art installations, and the annual Christmas Tree Lighting Ceremony.
So, surely add Main Plaza, the heart of the city, to your bucket list.
Address: San Antonio, TX 78205, United States
Things to Do in San Antonio
6. San Fernando Cathedral and San Antonio | The Saga
San Fernando Cathedral or the Cathedral of Our Lady of Candelaria and Guadalupe is the oldest Roman Catholic church in the United States. Built in 1750, it is located in front of the Main Plaza in downtown San Antonio, Texas.
And this church is famous as the burial site of the heroes of the Alamo. Due to all these historical values, it was listed on the National Register of Historic Places.
San Fernando Cathedral features impressive Gothic and American Colonial architectural styles designed by Francois P. Giraud. And its walls were built by settlers from the Canary Islands.
This is one of the best places to visit in San Antonio every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evening. The reason is, it turns into the stage called San Antonio|The Saga in those evenings. And it is one of the most visually compelling attractions in the city.
It is a free 24-minute video created by Xavier de Richemont with choreographed music and narration. And most importantly, it is projected onto the walls of San Fernando Cathedral. So, you can enjoy the show on this huge 7,000-square-foot screen.
What does this colorful video say?
San Antonio|The Saga shows the highlights of the history and the progression of the great city of San Antonio, Texas. So, do not miss it tonight.
Address: 115 Main Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States Phone: +1 210-227-1297
Things to Do in San Antonio
7. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, Texas
Welcome to the “African Safari, Texas-Style” wildlife and safari park in San Antonio, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch.
Opened in 1984, the ranch spreads for 400 acres and contains over 500 animals (over 40+ species), including native, some endangered, and some exotic, representing all corners of the world.
So, if you are looking for a fun and adventurous place to visit with family, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is the best option.
Since this is a drive-through safari ranch, you can observe almost all animals’ natural habitats in the pastures.
Unlike in a zoo, you can see that these animals are spending a free and happy life. So, sometimes they fearlessly come near your vehicle and smile. Your kids will love that experience.
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch has zebras, wildebeest, giraffes, deers, ostriches, buffaloes, and many other animal species to see.
Address: 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, United States Phone: +1 830-438-7400
Things to Do in San Antonio
8. Things to Do in San Antonio: McNay Art Museum
McNay Art Museum is an American & European art museum that features artworks from Medieval to contemporary styles. And it is the first modern art museum that opened in Texas.
The famous American painter Marion Koogler McNay was the founder of this wonderful mansion during the 20th century. Representing the Spanish Colonial Revival style architecture, the mansion and the garden are attractive.
Then, it was converted into an art museum.
McNay Art Museum features more than 20,000 objects, including a collection of Contemporary Art, sculptures, Tobin Collection of Theatre Arts, and a large research library.
Especially, the exhibits in McNay Art Museum include artworks done by Pablo Picasso, Vincent van Gogh, Pierre-Auguste Renoir, Edward Hopper, Georgia O’Keeffe, Jackson Pollock, and Paul Gauguin.
Address: 6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78209, United States Phone: +1 210-824-5368
Things to Do in San Antonio
9. San Antonio Botanical Garden, Texas
San Antonio Botanical Garden is a 33-acre garden that opened in 1980. And it is a great place to visit with your family to see colorful flowers, trees and breath some fresh air.
Each season San Antonio Botanical Garden shows you different plants with different flowers. So, there’s always something to see.
The most highlighted sections are its Rose Garden, exotic tropic selections, Mays Family Display Garden with native plants, Water Saver Conservation Garden with drought-resistant plants, and Family Adventure Garden for kids.
San Antonio Botanical Garden will guide you and offer more information if you want to redesign your own garden.
Just visit there with your family and get inspired.
Address: 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209, United States Phone: +1 210-536-1400
Things to Do in San Antonio
10. Natural Bridge Caverns, San Antonio
Established in 1964, Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio are the largest known commercial caverns in Texas.
As there’s a 60 ft natural limestone slab bridge that spans to the cavern’s entrance, it calls Natural Bridge Caverns. Located just 30 minutes from downtown, you can easily get there with your family.
Natural Bridge Caverns is a spectacular cavern system that contains huge open rooms, narrow passages, and interesting calcite formations.
And the cavern offers two types of tours inside it, and they will take around 70 minutes.
After touring inside the cavern, do not miss the adventures on the ground too. Surely try the Canopy Challenge, the thrilling zip lining adventure. Also, there’s a safe rope course designed for toddlers and younger kids too.
On the other hand, Natural Bridge Caverns offers you a chance to grab a gem and fossil mining experience. Just check how lucky you are.
Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, United States Phone: +1 210-651-6101
Looking for more cavern tours in Texas?? Just check the list of the most amazing caverns in Texas.
11. San Antonio Zoo, Texas
San Antonio Zoo is one of the best places to visit with kids. Located in the city’s Brackenridge Park, the zoo spreads for 35-acre and contains over 3,500 animals in 750 species. Therefore, it attracts millions of visitors annually.
Surrounded by an old limestone quarry, San Antonio Zoo is opened to the public throughout the year.
San Antonio Zoo was established in 1914 and is considered one of the first ‘cageless’ zoos in the United States. This zoo is more famous for its unique breeding program. And it has won several awards as well.
For example, San Antonio Zoo is the first zoo in North America that successfully reproduces the endangered white rhinoceros. Also, it has one of the largest collections of birds in the country too.
There is no need to walk; the historic San Antonio Zoo Eagle, the miniature train, will take around the zoo to observe animals. So, come along with your family and have fun.
Address: 3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States Phone: +1 210-734-7184
Things to Do in San Antonio
12. Things to Do in San Antonio: Majestic Theatre
Here’s the oldest and largest atmospheric theatre in San Antonio, the Majestic Theatre.
The Majestic Theatre was and designed by the famous architect John Eberson at the request of the Interstate Theaters Company in 1929. And it has a capacity to seat 2,264 people.
So, if you are a theatre lover, surely visit the Majestic Theatre and catch shows of San Antonio’s Symphony. Actually, the theatre has constantly been hosting shows of San Antonio’s Symphony since 1989.
Therefore, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places as well.
Address: 224 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States Phone: +1 210-226-5700
Things to Do in San Antonio
13. Pearl Farmers Market, San Antonio
Pearl Farmers Market is an outdoor market that features local producers that sell fresh vegetables, fruits, bakery items, meat, fish, cheese, sauces, drinks, cooking demos, and fun live music.
If you want to experience San Antonio’s local life, Pearl Farmers Market is the best place you should visit.
What is the Pearl?
The Pearl is a historic district of San Antonio that features lovely restored buildings, great cuisine and hip restaurants, unique shops, and the lively Pearl Farmers Market on weekends.
Obviously, the great cuisines, affordable restaurants, and delicious food items are the most highlighted features of The Pearl. So, thousands of food lovers visit this district and the market on weekends.
Actually, The Pearl is the home to one of the most famous Culinary Institutes of America too. (There are three such institutes in the United States, and the other two are in New York and California)
Culinary Institutes of America normally organizes short Culinary Boot Camps, hands-on cooking classes, cooking demos, and many other delicious things. You can join them too.
Address: 312 Pearl Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78215, United States Phone: +1 210-212-7260
Things to Do in San Antonio
14. King William Historic District
Do you like to know more about San Antonio’s history?
The King William Historic District is a historic area located just south of the city’s downtown. Initially, it was the residential area of Indian families during the Mission San Antonio era.
Then, the King William Historic District was inhabited by many German settlers from the 1840s to the early 1950s. So, you can see impressive old houses and cottages along the streets of this district.
And it became the first designated historic district in San Antonio in 1968. Therefore, it was added to the National Register Historic District.
Now the King William Historic District attracts thousands of visitors to see the interesting architectural revival heritage.
Address: 302 King William St, San Antonio, TX 78204, United States
Things to Do in San Antonio
15. Things to Do in San Antonio: Morgan’s Wonderland
Morgan’s Wonderland is a famous non-profitable theme park that stretches for 25-acres in San Antonio. Since it welcomes guests of all ages and abilities, do not hesitate to bring your adults or relatives with special physical or cognitive needs.
The founder of this wonderful amusement park, Gordon Hartman, has a daughter with a severe cognitive delay. Her name is Morgan, and he developed this park for her. Therefore, he decided to offer free entrance for those with special needs.
Initially, Morgan’s Wonderland was a limestone quarry; then, it was renovated and rebuilt with over 25 attractions.
You can see a comfortable and safe environment with a friendly staff at Morgan’s Wonderland. That’s why it attracts thousands of visitors annually from all over the world.
Please check their website to know the opening days and hours.
Address: 5223 David Edwards Dr, San Antonio, TX 78233, United States Phone: +1 210-495-5888
Things to Do in San Antonio
16. Things to Do in San Antonio: The DoSeum
The DoSeum or San Antonio’s Museum for Kids is a famous museum that promotes learning and discovering things through interactive exhibits & creative programs.
So, plenty of progressive parents bring their kids to the DoSeum to show how to learn things yourself.
This fun-filled educational museum offers enough space and resources for kids to think, dream, invent, create, build, make, and enjoy through diverse interactive exhibits and hands-on displays.
For example, The DoSeum features an interactive puppet parade, an ADA-accessible treehouse, a challenging spy academy, a Children’s River, a musical staircase, and an interactive robot named Baxter.
Surely bring your curious kids to The DoSeum.
Address: 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209, United States Phone: +1 210-212-4453
Things to Do in San Antonio
17. Japanese Tea Garden, San Antonio
San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden or Sunken Garden is an attractive park that opened in 1942.
The famous architect Dionicio Rodriguez turned an abandoned limestone rock quarry into a beautiful and relaxing garden called San Antonio Japanese. Since it is located just a 10-minute drive from the River Walk, it attracts many visitors.
Actually, it is totally worth visiting there to enjoy its exotic plants, waterfalls, koi ponds, the lovely stone Pavilion, and the relaxing environment.
After spending some quality time, you can eat some delicious food from the on-site restaurant, Jingu House. It offers you both indoor and outdoor dining spaces.
So, just sit outside and enjoy your meal while observing the beauty of the San Antonio Japanese Tea Garden.
Address: 3853 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212, United States Phone: +1 210-559-3148
Things to Do in San Antonio
18. Things to Do in San Antonio: Fiesta San Antonio
Here’s the greatest celebration of San Antonio.
Fiesta San Antonio is an epic 10-day celebration held every spring. It features entertaining parades like the Battle of Flowers parade, events, colorful decorations, concerts, fireworks, food stores, and many other fun things.
Especially, people wear colorful costumes under various themes. And Fiesta San Antonio selects the Fiesta King and Queen annually based on how much money they have raised for the celebration.
So, participate in Fiesta San Antonio with your family this spring and have fun.
19. UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures
Established in 1968, the San Antonio Institute of Texan Cultures at the University of Texas is a cultural museum and library located in Downtown San Antonio, Texas.
It features information about Texan heritage, ethnicity, history, programs, social issues through exhibits and special events like Texas Folklife Festival.
Also, it shows success stories of immigrants who live in Texas and how they became a part of the Texas multicultural society.
Since the UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures Museum is located just a short walk from the River Walk, you can reach there easily.
Come along with your kids to teach them more about Texan culture and history.
Address: 801 E César E. Chávez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States Phone: +1 210-458-2300
Things to Do in San Antonio
20. San Antonio Fire Museum
San Antonio Fire Museum is an admirable museum in San Antonio, Texas. It tells you the stories about brave firefighters in the city.
This museum was founded in 2013, and it shows more information about the San Antonio Fire Department started in 1854 with only a 20 volunteer brigade. And they had worked using horse-pulled carts and a few antique types of equipment.
Today, you can see old pictures of their works, those antique equipment, old fire trucks, and stories about firefighters.
Surely bring your kids to this wonderful museum on your San Antonio tour. And it offers free entrance for everyone. But, donations are welcome.
Address: 801 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States Phone: +1 210-390-7236
Things to Do in San Antonio
21. Things to Do in San Antonio: SeaWorld San Antonio
Welcome to the best oceanarium and animal theme park in San Antonio.
SeaWorld San Antonio is a 250-acre marine park and considers the largest marine theme park in the world too.
Opened in 1988, SeaWorld San Antonio features many fun items and activities, including roller coasters, live animal attractions, animal shows, and various fun rides.
And obviously, SeaWorld San Antonio is home to a number of different sharks, dolphins, seals, penguins, otters, sea lions, stingrays, tropical fish, eels, American alligators, flamingoes, whales, and many other marine creatures.
SeaWorld San Antonio’s most highlighted events are the displays of trained killer whales, dolphins, and belugas. So, do not miss it.
Address: 10500 Sea World Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, United States Phone: +1 210-520-4732
Things to Do in San Antonio
22. Six Flags Fiesta Texas
Six Flags Fiesta Texas or Fiesta Texas is an amusement park located in La Cantera, San Antonio. It owns and operates by Six Flags, a famous amusement park company since 1992.
Spreading for 200 acres of land, Six Flags Fiesta Texas features an incredible range of rides and shows for all ages.
For example, there’s a Thrilling Rattler, Goliath roller coasters, Lone Star Nights Laser and Fireworks during summer nights, ZoomJets, Buckarooz, Roadhouse Country show, etc.
And the most famous Batman: The Ride, the first 4D free-fly coaster in the world. It will take you 120 feet up the hill and flip six times before the drop.
After experiencing all these thrills, do not forget to have tasty burgers, Italiano pizzas, Mexican food, or Asian foods from restaurants at Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
Address: 17000 W I-10, San Antonio, TX 78257, United States Phone: +1 210-697-5050
Things to Do in San Antonio
23. Ranger Creek Brewing and Distilling
Now it’s time to drink a handcrafted beer. And Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling is the best place for that in San Antonio.
This Industrial brewstillery offers you a wide range of microbrews & craft whiskies. And also offer special Saturday tours called Brewstillery Tour to show you the process of producing beer.
Being the only “brewstillery” in Texas, Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling produces various small-batch craft beers (Red Headed Strangler and Oat Meal Pale Ale), White Whiskies, and whiskies.
And the interesting part is, you can try it all in the tasting room along with a simple rotating menu. Sounds fun??
Address: 4834 Whirlwind Dr, San Antonio, TX 78217, United States Phone: +1 210-339-2282
Things to Do in San Antonio
24. Things to Do in San Antonio: Lollypop Carriage Ride Service
Here’s one of the best and unforgettable things to do in San Antonio with your family or soulmate at night.
Lollypop Carriage Ride Service offers you a dramatic carriage ride through downtown San Antonio for few minutes. Usually, they offer the service from 6 pm to 11 pm. So, you can see the colorful San Antonio and take photographs.
If you are looking for a unique way to celebrate your baby girl’s birthday, make her feel like a princess and book a Lollypop Carriage Ride. She will surely love this Cinderella ride experience.
Address: Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, United States Phone: +1 210-622-9673
Things to Do in San Antonio
25. Things to Do in San Antonio: Monster Mini Golf
Do you like miniature golf courses? Here’s one of the best ones in San Antonio.
Located in Castle Hills, Monster Mini Golf features a glow-in-the-dark indoor course with arcade games and a fun DJ. The golf balls glow in the dark, and it has awesome monster décors in the background.
Monster Mini Golf is suitable for your whole family. So, come along with your kids.
Address: 2267 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio, TX 78213, United States Phone: +1 210-979-8888
Things to Do in San Antonio
- San Antonio River Walk
- San Antonio Museum of Art
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
- The Alamo
- Main Plaza
- San Antonio | The Saga and San Fernando Cathedral
- Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
- McNay Art Museum
- San Antonio Botanical Garden
- Natural Bridge Caverns
- San Antonio Zoo
- Majestic Theatre
- Pearl Farmers Market
- King William Historic District
- Morgan’s Wonderland
- The DoSeum
- Japanese Tea Garden
- Fiesta San Antonio
- Institute of Texan Cultures
- San Antonio Fire Museum
- SeaWorld San Antonio
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas
- Ranger Creek Brewing and Distilling
- Lollypop Carriage Ride Service
- Monster Mini Golf
Things to Do in San Antonio
