DIVEIN.com’s Complete Guide to:
50 Things To Do In San Antonio In 2023
If you’re running out of ideas about which cities remain unique, search no further! San Antonio will give you something different.
Also known as the “Alamo City”. Its massive 505 square mile area is cradle to rich culture, vibrant art scene, and diverse food experiences. A home to more than 1.5 million residents, making it the 7th most populous city in America!
San Antonio accommodates around 34 million tourists yearly, claiming its rank among the top travel destinations in Texas.
Discover why it was once hailed as one of the only four unique cities in America by none other than Mark Twain. It’s loaded with natural gems to exciting modern attractions and everything in between.
Experience San Antonio as raw like locals do when you tick down these exceptional places.
Here are the best 50 things to do in San Antonio:
50 Things to do in San Antonio
Visit The Alamo
What’s special about this place?
The most remarkable site in San Antonio is The Alamo or the “Shrine of Texas Liberty”, home to a 300-year old collection dedicated for the 1836 Alamo mission by the Catholic Church. Discover its history, observe artifacts and exhibits, and marvel at its New World Spanish Ecclesiastic architecture made of limestone in 1718. Dig deep into San Antonio’s past when you take a free tour at the 5-acre UNESCO World Heritage Site, The Alamo museum.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re someone who loves unearthing the historical significance of the places you visit, you’ll appreciate taking a tour at The Alamo. It’s also a worthwhile place sure to reward you with priceless information without spending anything, so if you’re a bit short on budget, this place is for you. If it’s your first time in San Antonio, paying homage at The Alamo is one of your must-dos.
What to do here?
Some precious items at The Alamo are Travis’s Ring, an 1836 Kentucky Rifle, and a snuff gold box given to General Houston by General Santa Anna. Drop by their gift shop, where you’ll also bump into the massive battle diorama on display. The Alamo is one of the five missions in San Antonio, so remember to tour the remaining four at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, still free of charge.
Best Time to Visit
The Alamo is typically crowd-free all day until 7 PM during weekdays. The River Walk is also easily accessible from The Alamo, meaning you can easily slip into downtown fun from the museum.
How about hitting two birds with one stone while in Texas? There are also lots of fun things to do in Austin you wouldn’t want to miss!
What’s special about this place?
Stretching 15 miles long, the River Walk, a.k.a. Paseo del Rio, has a vibrant entertainment scene to accompany the beautiful views. As a result of waterway improvement, the River Walk now has accessible pathways on both banks and is packed with lots of dining, shopping, and entertainment. Soak in the local energy when you stroll around River Walk, taking as much time as needed to see everything there is to see.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Get to know the local feel by tracing the River Walk. This is especially great for a first-timer. Are you traveling with your family? It is one of the best places to visit whether you’re out for some essentials or you want to experience the city without straying far from modern comfort.
What to do here?
Savor truly Texan flavors biting yummy staple options at Burgerteca. See the events at Marriage Island or take a tour at La Villita Historic Arts Village. San Antonio Museum of Art and Historic Market Square are also just along the paved paths of River Walk, and if anything, wandering on a kayak absorbing the local vibes won’t hurt either!
Best Time to Visit
You can explore River Walk any time of any day. It also means that no matter what time you visit, there’s something open for you. Fiesta San Antonio also cruises creative floats along River Walk, happening around spring.
Don’t have a kayak yet? Check out our in-depth review of the best inflatable kayaks in the market. There’s something that suits the explorer in you.
Explore the Natural Bridge Caverns
What’s special about this place?
The most massive natural caves in America are in town at the Natural Bridge Caverns, reaching 230 feet at the entrance. The primary star is the 60-foot long limestone bridge leading to the natural amphitheater. See striking stalagmites and stalactites molded by nature running as long as 180 feet at 1960 Natural Bridge Caverns as you walk, rappel down and squeeze into the cave channels.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Whether you’re a seasoned spelunking enthusiast or you never tried it before, you’ll enjoy the accessibility of Natural Bridge Caverns. It also means that even your kids can explore through the paved pathways. For nature lovers in San Antonio, don’t miss this local glory while you’re in the city.
What to do here?
Depending on what tour you opt for, you can simply enjoy a relaxed stroll around or grip a rope to descend to the chambers underneath. Take your little ones for the opportunity to have fun by the maze or looking for precious stones. Zip rails, maze, and sphere climbing are also part of the choices if you’re aching for some calm and relaxing tour at the surface of Natural Bridge Caverns.
Best Time to Visit
Visit as soon as they open at 9 AM when there are still rarely any visitors around. Doing so during weekdays will give you more space to move around, and the usual chatters echoing in the caves are less. Plus, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is just within a short distance, so remember to spear them together.
If nature adventure runs in your bloodstream, there are unlimited options of awesome things to do in Sedona to soothe your aches.
Dine at Guenther House
What’s special about this place?
Serving a delectable menu since opening in 1988, Guenther House started as a Vernacular Arts & Crafts-design estate owned by Carl Hilmar Guenther’s family in 1859. Experience exceptional dining tasting heavenly fares in this restaurant located along River Walk within the King William Historic District, also home to a museum, an event’s place, and a souvenir shop. Feed your mind and hunger with tasty treats and valuable history when you visit Guenther House.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
The ambiance inside the restaurant is very homey, so it’s a great place to share a meal while in San Antonio with your family. Every food lover will regret missing out on the mouth-watering fares at Guenther House. If you’re wondering where to dine in the city for an incomparable treat, it is one of your best choices.
What to do here?
Savor their 1851 Breakfast Platter with sausage, scrambled eggs, Pioneer’s breakfast potatoes, and gravy, plus Applewood-smoked bacon. Champagne Chicken Enchiladas will leave you speechless, taste it yourself and feel heaven without dying. See family belongings by the Parlor, luxurious Victorian-style interior and furniture, equipment used for baking and milling are also by the museum.
Best Time to Visit
Since Guenther House is sitting along the River Walk, it’s a nice place for an 8 AM breakfast before you start touring or a 1 PM lunch after a whole morning of strolling along the River Walk. Both hours are the least crowded before they close at 2 PM except Mondays and Tuesdays when they’re closed. Otherwise, you can explore the house while waiting for your table to be free.
Ride the Yellow Rose Carriage Co.
What’s special about this place?
One of the trendiest things to do in San Antonio is riding the glowing Yellow Rose Carriage Co. Like it just popped out of your Cinderella fairytale book, the 1982 Yellow Rose Carriage Co gives you the chance to feel the city vibes while on a horse-drawn carriage lit by colorful LEDs. See the majestic beauty of the area from a whole new perspective when you ride the colorful Yellow Rose Carriage for a tour lasting at least 20 minutes long.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
It is a memorable activity if you’re traveling with your children, especially your lovely little girls. It’s also a fun pastime if you’re on vacation with your girlfriends. For a romantic date night with your special person, hop on board and relax as you wander through the streets on a Yellow Rose Carriage.
What to do here?
Your carriage will pass through some of San Antonio’s most famed attractions like The Alamo, Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks, and the haunted Menger Hotel. If you’re thinking about popping up the ring, this is the loveliest warm-up sure to give you a joyful “YES”!
Best Time to Visit
It’s best to start your carriage tour once darkness has fallen from 7 PM onwards, or opt for a late 2 AM ride. No reservations are needed! Rides from Yellow Rose Carriage Co.’s carriages are waiting near The Alamo, so taking a post-tour ride with them is a rewarding combination.
Experience more quirky activities and figure out why “Keep Austin Weird” is an echoing tagline to lots of travelers when you check out the unique things to do in Austin.
Relax at San Antonio Botanical Gardens
What’s special about this place?
Take in a breather of crisp fresh air when you take some time unwinding under the shades of San Antonio Botanical Gardens established in 1980. It covers 38 acres of green space, hosting over 300 species of floras scattered across ten local and exotic themed gardens. Let your senses feast on the colorful natural environs and tune out from the little chatters of modern living when you mellow down at San Antonio Botanical Gardens.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If your reason for your escapade to San Antonio is to flee from the city hustle and bustle, taking a trip here as soon as you arrive will satisfyingly detox you. It’s a nature lover’s refuge amidst the middle of the city. There are also engaging and child-friendly activities at San Antonio Botanical Gardens, where your kids can unleash all their energy.
What to do here?
See the charming collection at the Rose Garden, Japanese Garden and head to the innovative Sensory Garden and WaterSaver Garden. Take a hike tracing the 1.8-mile long Texas Native Trail, where you’ll also see hundreds of plant forms. After that, you can relax at the Lucile Halsell Conservatory or cool off by the splash area at Family Adventure Garden.
Best Time to Visit
Check-in with the serenity of the place, drop by between Monday and Friday, from 9 AM until 7 PM. Remember that there’s a heavy crowd all day during weekends. Check out their San Antonio Botanical Gardens website for the list of updated events.
You’re also welcome to bring your chair if you plan to spend the day doing nothing but breathe, letting time pass by as you relax. If you still don’t have one, get one of the best camping chairs you’ll find around. Pop it anywhere you travel without any hassle!
Climb the Tower of Americas
What’s special about this place?
Indeed towering at 750 feet high and hailed as San Antonio’s tallest building, the Tower of Americas opened in 1968 for the infamous HemisFair. The spotlight is on Observation Deck, but it’s also home to a world-class rotating restaurant, the Chart House, and the 4D simulation Skies Over Texas. Take in the city skyline from its highest point while sipping some cocktails at Tower of Americas.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
This iconic site is one of the headliners that any San Antonio visitor must tick off. Watching the sun go down from the Observation Deck is also one of the most romantic things to do in San Antonio if you’re on holiday as a couple. The picturesque view gets better when shared with people you care for, so bring in your family for some quality time together.
What to do here?
Unlimited snaps are the best thing to do at the top of the Tower of Americas and zoom in on local attractions using the on-deck mounted telescope. After you’re with the photo ops, head to Skies Over Texas to watch Ice Age. For a heavenly meal, refuel with some Kin Chee Calamari and Coconut Crunchy Shrimp, and finish it with their signature Faux-Jito cocktail mix while basking in the city skyline.
Best Time to Visit
Tower of Americas is open daily, starting at noon until 10 PM. It’s unbelievably busy on Saturdays. But for a romantic experience with your special someone, head to the observation deck before the sun goes down and have a dinner date at Chart House afterward.
Tour the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
What’s special about this place?
The Alamo might have been the most famous of them all, but the four remaining Catholic missions that spread the religion in San Antonio are all equally significant, namely Espada, San Juan, Conception, and San Jose. These four brick-made buildings served as a local refuge, built along the 10-mile trail at the 948-acre San Antonio Missions National Historical Park listed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Learn about the religious sagas as you venture across the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you feel incomplete every time you miss the historic places of cities you travel to, visiting here will satisfy the history buff in you. Scoop up valuable experiences at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park without spending anything at all! Taking a tour of his historic site will stretch your finances without leaving you bored.
What to do here?
Download the free audio guide from their website for a comprehensive journey if you opt for a self-guided tour. Whether you stroll or pedal your bike, the natural environs around the missions will soothe you from the heat. Observe the structural designs of the historic buildings and walk-in for some personal prayers or attend the Sunday service.
Best Time to Visit
Visit during weekdays between 9 AM and 5 PM. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is usually not crowded during these days. You can join in on a free tour led by a ranger daily, departing at 10 AM, 11 AM, 2:15 PM, and 3:15 PM, except for the first Wednesdays.
Learn more about San Antonio Missions National Historical Park here!
Join Fiesta San Antonio
What’s special about this place?
The Fiesta is a local tradition that started back in 1891, now hosting over a hundred events throughout its entire 11-day duration. To commemorate the Battle of San Jacinto and The Alamo heroes, the city hosts floating flower parades along the River Walk, while food, sports, and music fests popped across the town. The Battle of Flowers is the main star of Fiesta, America’s only all-female organized parade!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Fiesta is one of the liveliest events in San Antonio, so if you want to experience local vibes in their most vibrant form, attending here will give you the fix. There are plenty of options for people of any age and walk of life, particularly family-oriented happenings sure to delight your little ones. If you’ve never been to a Tex-Mex fiesta before, this is your chance.
What to do here?
At La Villita Historic Arts Village, there’s a party running for four nights straight, live jazz, rock, and other music are playing downtown, and watch out for the flower floats along River Walk. St. Mary’s University has their Fiesta Oyster Bake, and there’s also a coronation of the Carnival Queen, her princess, and a couple of dozens of duchesses. Taste of the Republic is in the spotlight as well, with authentic Texan culinary specialties for a charity cause.
Best Time to Visit
See the Fiesta annual schedule from their website, but it typically happens during April. Surround your San Antonio trip with this local tradition if you want to experience the city at its best vibes. Not only that, there are plenty of activities you can do without spending a dime at all.
Chill at Menger Bar
What’s special about this place?
The Menger Bar is sitting inside The Menger Hotel just across the infamous historic site The Alamo and started serving its customers as a pub in 1887, making it the oldest in San Antonio. It was inspired by London’s House of the Lord’s Pub, taking you back into the 19th century as soon as you drop by. Enjoy great drinks and spend some good time chilling inside the classic pub The Menger Bar.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you can’t go through your holidays without good drinks and music, The Menger Bar is one of the best places to unwind in a relaxed environment. The well-preserved setup inside is also a sight you’re bound to fall for if you’re a history lover. It’s a great pub to loosen up your stress after a whole day of walking around (as long as you’re of legal age, of course!).
What to do here?
Have a glass of their signature The Old Fashioned, a famous vintage mix of rye whiskey, some bitters, and a hint of sugar over ice, and marry it with some Jalapeno Peppers. You’ll also notice some vintage items on display, owned by former President Theodore Roosevelt, like hats, medals, and rifles, along with a few photos.
Best Time to Visit
The Menger Bar is open from 11 AM daily and closes at 10 PM from Sunday until Thursday, and closes at midnight during Friday and Saturday. You don’t necessarily have to be checked in at The Menger Hotel to enjoy the services and drinks for The Menger Bar.
Watch a rodeo
What’s special about this place?
Texas = rodeo, simple as that. That bond has a stronghold with San Antonio, and no trip around the city is complete without a live experience of this thrilling event. Strap those cowboy boots and put their hat on, prepare for an action-pack horse riding show from one of the best in the state, the 1949 San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’ve never been in a rodeo ever, now’s your chance to witness this electrifying Texan tradition. You might want to skip this one if you don’t like seeing anything aggressive. For an immersive experience with the locals, sitting with them to see the rodeo will give you the type of hype you won’t find anywhere else in the country.
What to do here?
Be amazed how 8 seconds can be so long when watching a rodeo, hoping the contestant doesn’t fall off! San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo typically takes place in AT&T Center, meaning various scheduled shows are on queue as well. Other fun competitions also typically surround rodeo, the muddy pig races, tug of wars, and some vibrant live music are also available.
Best Time to Visit
Check out San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo’s website for the latest schedules. Shows last approximately for a couple of hours, and you can come once the gates open 2 hours before the show. Don’t forget your Stetson!
Take the kids to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
What’s special about this place?
The 1984 Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch’s 4-mile road will lead you to Africa without flying out of the country! This 450-acre animal sanctuary near Natural Bridge Caverns hosts over 500 wildlife residents from 45 different species that you can meet as you travel the grounds of 3 massive pastures on your car. Complete with hills, flowing creeks, and thick trees, plunge right into the wilderness at this Land Heritage Property.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Take your kids to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch and create some of the most unforgettable family memories there. If you genuinely love animals and don’t like seeing them caged in typical zoos, you’ll fall for the diversity and freedom in the ranch. Touring Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a worthwhile alternative if a trip to Africa is not feasible yet at the moment.
What to do here?
A bag of treats is inclusive that you can feed to the animals as you cruise along the grounds, wildlife that you’ll spot such as ostrich, zebras, giraffes, wildebeest, and kangaroos. Deer, buffalos, and lemurs are also part of the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch family. There’s also the on-site restaurant Safari Grill in case you get hungry, plus at Safari Trading Post, you can get some souvenirs to take home.
Best Time to Visit
Wander with your car any day, between 9 AM and 5 PM. You’ll steer clear from herds of tourists when you drop by at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch during weekdays. If you plan to pair a tour trip with Natural Bridge Caverns, be at the ranch as soon as they open.
Your binoculars will come in handy here. If you still don’t have one, check out the best binoculars in the market and enjoy your nature adventures better.
Walk around La Villita Historic Arts Village
What’s special about this place?
Founded back in 1939, it’s one of the first communities in San Antonio sitting on the southern banks of River Walk transformed into a cultural hotspot now known as La Villita Historic Arts Village. With 27 quaint novelty shops, restaurants and stores, and other establishments, you’ll be thrown at the heart of Texan Culture when you visit this neighborhood. Shop, dine, and explore this local gem, also listed under the National Register of Historic Places.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
The La Villita Historic Arts Village is your dream place if you ache to feel San Antonio like locals do. Whether you love arts, culture, or food, you’re bound to find a spot that speaks to your passion. The atmosphere in this neighborhood is also a family-friendly plaza-style site where even your little ones will have fun.
What to do here?
Some artisan items you’ll find at La Villita Historic Arts Village are indigenous fold artworks, paintings, and copperware, and historic buildings like Otto Bombach House and Jeremiah Dashiell House are also sitting within the neighborhood. It’s also a host to the 4-night party during Fiesta San Antonio.
Best Time to Visit
Most establishments in La Villita Historic Arts Village open around 10 AM. Weekdays are the most relaxing, but if there’s any scheduled event (especially for Fiesta San Antonio), there are so many visitors it’s shoulder to shoulder. Well, the Fiesta will always be “the more, the merrier” type anyways!
Watch a show at Majestic Theater
What’s special about this place?
The city’s pioneer theater after construction in 1929, the 2,024 m2 Majestic Theater is also the biggest in San Antonio, with a 2,264 seating capacity. In addition to that is the three balconies housed in its Spanish-Mediterranean building, packing up more audience to witness world-class live performances, from Broadway musicals to tear-jerking comedies. Majestic Theater consistently proves why its state-of-the-art facilities and amenities deserve being on the National Register of Historic Places and Texas Historic Landmark.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re a performing arts devotee, you’ll love taking a seat for a show. It’s also one of the best things to do in San Antonio for couples. If you want to experience local culture while on holiday, see what’s on schedule at Majestic Theater.
What to do here?
Shows include child-targeted live shows like Peppa Pig, The Lion King, and L.O.L. Surprise! Live, sure to keep them entertained throughout the whole performance. International music pots include guitar performances by Joe Bonamassa, Juanes, and the legendary Earth, Wind, and Fire will soothe the music hero in you! Take a quick basement tour with murals covering the walls showcasing the most iconic shows held at Majestic Theater since it started operations.
Best Time to Visit
See the show lineup from their official website, and remember to purchase your tickets from them since fraudulent tickets are everywhere. Take your seat at least fifteen minutes before the show starts. No refunds are accepted, so make your money worth it!
Step into Mexico at Market Square
What’s special about this place?
Also locally known as El Mercado, Market Square is a three-block outdoor Mexican-inspired plaza in West Commerce Street and the biggest of its type in the country, with more than a hundred shops and restaurants within its grounds. After it started in the 1920s, it has already become an institution in San Antonio, giving all its visitors an authentic taste of everything Mexican, from music to novelty items, you’ll find them all here.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
It’s one of the places where your entire family can scout and find something fun and exciting to try. Market Square is the solution if you want to feel the Mexican vibes but can’t travel there yet. Spend an afternoon strolling through Market Square if you need to have some of the most unique and trendy experiences to bring back home.
What to do here?
Get authentic Mexican fabrics and handicrafts, and taste Mexican baked goodies you can easily find from cafes throughout El Mercado. Wandering around checking out the happenings isn’t going to hurt either, and the same goes for your pocket! Market Square is also within reach of The Alamo and River Walk, meaning you can slip in as you please without trouble.
Best Time to Visit
El Mercado is open throughout the week, from 10 AM until 5 PM, and closes an hour later during Saturdays when there are plenty of people checking out the area. If you want more room to move around without other customers bumping your way, shop during weekdays or as soon as they’re open on weekends. But with so much going on in El Mercado, you’ll forget about those troubles once you start exploring Market Square.
Trace the river with GO RIO San Antonio River Cruises
What’s special about this place?
The boats of GO RIO not only help you see the wonders of River Walk but also keep the environment and tourism of the city alive, run by electricity. GO RIO offers a 1.5-hour narrated tour and a ride from one point to another, between downtown to Mission Reach, after starting taking passengers onboard in 2017. It’s one of the most practical ways to tour River Walk effortlessly.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you want to see what River Walk has to offer without breaking a sweat, the riverboat ride is your best bet. It’s also a great way to tour with your family. Maybe you’re time-constricted for your holiday; taking a quick sweep of River Walk hopping aboard the river barge will be ideal for you.
What to do here?
If you opt for a narrated tour, you’ll be fed with information and fun trivia as the boat cruises the waters. Enjoy sightseeing local attractions in the banks of River Walk, such as the La Villita Historic Arts Village, San Antonio Museum of Art, Market Square, and Marriage Island. You might also want to hop off to check them out or grab some carbs from Burgerteca or the Guenther House.
Best Time to Visit
You can hop aboard the GO RIO San Antonio River Cruises from noon until 10 PM every day. Time your ride before sunset for a lovely way to watch the sun go down as a couple.
Family day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas
What’s special about this place?
Spend the entire day trying to conquer all the 60+ rides at the 200-acre Six Flags Fiesta Texas at La Cantera, with ten roller coaster options. Delivering nonstop family fun since 1992, choose whether to go on relaxing journeys, cool off in their water park, or feel your heart skip a beat on various gut-churning rides. Run to Six Flags Fiesta Texas for endless entertainment, where not even a single second is boringly wasted!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is an ideal place to take your family for some memorable experience in San Antonio. It’s also a must-visit for every adrenaline junky or if you genuinely enjoy amusement parks. Six Flags Fiesta Texas is the place for you if you need a break from all the museums or you want some hype post-nature tour.
What to do here?
Feel your insides leave you when you take a ride at the Goliath roller coaster towering at 150 feet, at Dare Devil Dive Flying Machines, or try out Bahama Blaster and Fireball. Refresh at White Water Canyon for some splashy adventure and head to The Buckarooz for family play. Other events like colorful pyrotechnics displays, live shows and a wide selection of food options are easily accessible at Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
Best Time to Visit
Six Flags Fiesta Texas operates 365 days per year, with varying hours depending on the season, so make sure that you drop by their website for the exact schedule. It might be a blockbuster crowded by thrill-seekers, but there’s a reason for it!
Eat at Liberty Bar
What’s special about this place?
Liberty Bar, currently owned by Timothy Hobart II, was brought to life in 1984 and was famed as the “tilting restaurant” after a flood pushed the structure westward. Now located at the King William Historic District in a convent, this restaurant serves delicious cuisines, pastries, and refreshing cocktail mixes. Stay out of the crowded pubs and clubs, and stray to Liberty Bar for some relaxing and satisfying dining + drinking experience.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re searching for a place to go mellow and simply let time fly by without a care, Liberty Bar is one of the best places in town. It’s a spot that every boho at heart will fall in love with. The restaurant ambiance is also family-oriented, so even your little ones can enjoy their delicious menu.
What to do here?
Everything is simply heavenly, from their Red-Eye Flight, with goat, chile con queso, feta, and cream cheese, Ranchera or Salsa Torres, and roasted bell peppers in one plate! Every bite you take with Chicken Salad Tartine is so good it will make your eyes roll (not even exaggerating!). Finish your meal with some coconut custard, washing it all down with Irish coffee, or some Blenheim Spicy Ginger Ale.
Best Time to Visit
Reservation is a must if you don’t want to be waiting for a table for half an hour. Liberty Bar is open on Mondays, Thursdays, and Friday, from 5 PM until midnight. On weekends, you can sit for brunch once they open at 11 AM or a late-night date before they close at midnight.
Snap pictures with the Giant Justins at North Star Mall
What’s special about this place?
Standing tall at 35 feet and stretching 33 feet long, the pair of massive boots in North Star Mall is a famous photo backdrop after its construction in 1979. Aside from this structure hailed as the most gigantic pair of cowboy boots on the planet, the 1,247,553 ft.2 North Star Mall itself will keep you spending with 175 different options. No San Antonio photo ops are complete without the Giant Justins in the album!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Anyone spending time shopping at North Star Mall will be amazed by the Giant Justins. It is especially true if you take your kids who see the boots at least twice as gigantic as it is! The mall is a massive retail space with all your needs under one roof, whether you’re an outdoor enthusiast, a food lover, or a self-proclaimed shopaholic!
What to do here?
Find new additions to your wardrobe from Aeropostale, Forever 21, and Gilda’s Boutique. Reenergize with yummy servings from The Cheesecake Factory, Chick-fil-A, and Marble Slab Creamery. Take some photos with Giant Justins without spending anything, and pair it up with some window shopping to save a few bucks while enjoying the sights.
Best Time to Visit
Since the Giant Justins sits on the mall’s exit road, it can be pretty busy and a bit dangerous. Remember to be patient and cautious since both car and people traffic is a hassle here. Drop after some shopping at North Star Mall from 11 AM onwards.
Hit the glowing golf balls at Monster Mini Golf
What’s special about this place?
The 11,500 ft.2 Monster Mini Golf at Castle Hills is taking mini golf to new heights, with everything glowing in the dark, from eerie monstrous props and decorations, even down to the golf ball itself! It’s one of the trendiest places for some fun rounds swinging the club, with 18 holes spread within its indoor facility. Providing its players with a unique golfing experience since 2011, you have to play to believe the thrill.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Monster Golf is the best place for some mini-golf in San Antonio, so if you love the sport, you can’t skip this one. The setup here is also child-friendly enough not to scare them away from playing. If you’re looking for cool things to do in San Antonio, hit the courses of Monster Mini Golf!
What to do here?
Bask in the creativity of the animated decors, spiced up with some humor, and come across monsters as you hit the ball and take turns on corners. There’s also a couple of air hockey tables, arcade machines to keep you entertained, get lost in the laser maze, or play some friendly competition at the laser tag arena. Thirsty Horse Dance Hall is also just a few minutes away if you want to detour for the beats.
Best Time to Visit
Skip Saturdays at all costs! Play around noontime, from Saturday until Monday, or at 2 PM for the rest of the week, with no heavy tourist crowds. Their closing time varies, so make sure you call them up for updated operating hours.
Visit the Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum
What’s special about this place?
Run through two museums in one go when you take some time to tour the 48,000 ft.2 Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum founded in 1881. You’ll find it sitting just a couple of blocks from The Alamo, with 520 animals on display, along with numerous informative exhibits about the legendary Wild West scattered in two different museums. Bonus, there’s an on-site café with yummy treats and a souvenir shop offering unique items for the keep.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum is a valuable site to visit, especially if you’ve always been intrigued by the Wild West, with Bonnie and Clyde in particular! It’s a discovery haven for every curious mind traveling in San Antonio. If seeing taxidermy animals, this place might be a no-go zone for you.
What to do here?
Learn what the specifics of Buffalo Bill are, get to know Theodore Roosevelt, the iconic Bonnie, and Clyde, and find out about the Texas Rangers. You’ll also come across the prehistoric ten centuries-old prehistoric Irish elk and a massive black marlin weighing 1,056 pounds heavy! You and your children can also have some fun playing Wild West shooting video games, then head to the bar for some Karbach Hopadillo and Buckhorn Bloody Mary.
Best Time to Visit
Their closing hours may differ but visit here as soon as they open at 10 AM (daily) when it’s crowd-free. Skip Saturdays if you can. But even if there are plenty of visitors bumping your way, you can always escape to the saloon for a relaxing drink.
Stay overnight at The Menger Hotel
What’s special about this place?
This 5-story Victorian-inspired hotel is known as one of the most haunted places in San Antonio. Dare to stay the night at 1857 The Menger Hotel, featuring 316 suites and rooms, equipped with modern amenities for your comfort. Its history is unquestionable (being part of the National Register of Historic Places), the question is whether you’ll manage to rest without items thrown by some shadow at the corner of your eyes while the lights flicker on their own.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re seeking adventure, make the most out of your money, saving accommodation and adrenaline at the same time. Paranormal investigators and ghost hunters, no need to wait for Halloween, The Menger Hotel will give you the chills right down your spine. If you don’t believe in the paranormal, their massive family rooms are ready to accommodate your family with excellent rooms and services.
What to do here?
Most rooms have The Alamo and plaza on view; some have private balconies, a pool, or a garden. All suites and rooms include an extra-soft bed, flat-screen TV, coffee maker, and writing desk paired with a chair to keep you comfy if all you want to do is stay in. Head for their Colonial Restaurant for a delicious serving of Menger Tortilla Soup, or unwind at The Menger Bar before you drift off (if you can!).
Best Time to Visit
Call the Menger Hotel for a reservation. Remember that check-in is at 4 PM, and checkout is before 11 AM. It’s also just a few skips from River Walk and Market Square, so you can easily slip for some downtown fun whenever you want.
Support the Spurs at AT&T Center
What’s special about this place?
It’s no secret that 2002 San Antonio’s AT&T Center is the home for the NBA legends Spurs (unless you’ve been living inside a cave for the past century). Experience all the court action when you get a ticket for the 18,418-seater 750,500 ft.2 AT&T Center, one of the country’s premier multi-purpose indoor events places. Watch the Spurs defend home, climbing the ranks for the season in this massive arena on San Antonio’s eastside.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re a big basketball fanatic, missing this local experience will be a tragedy. Seeing an event at AT&T is also a fun experience that you and your family can enjoy altogether, whether it’s a basketball game or a music concert. If you’ve never watched NBA live before, grab this chance while you’re in San Antonio.
What to do here?
Feel the electrifying and infectious locals’ energies while cheering along, and you might even make some new friends with the same passion for basketball. Other than the ball game, AT&T Center is also a host to various events like pop concerts, ice hockey games, and rodeos from the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. You won’t run out of entertainment options when you drop by AT&T Center!
Best Time to Visit
Check out the AT&T website for the latest schedule of events. Typically, you can get in an hour before the event. If you’re an avid NBA fan, don’t miss out on taking home merchandise from the on-site Fan Shop!
Grab your bite from Burgerteca
What’s special about this place?
Without a doubt, the hamburger is one of the most consumed foods in any city in America, and chances are, you’ll have them during your trip to San Antonio, so why not grab yours from Burgerteca. Serving its craving customers since 2017, this creation from Chef Johnny Hernandez, Burgerteca creatively fused Mexican flavors to your staple favorite. Find them along River Walk, and they also serve a variety of other Mexican-inspired fares sure to delight your taste buds.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re addicted to burgers, the choices at Burgerteca will keep you munching a lot. For foodies wandering in San Antonio, you need to sample the heavenly offers here. The ambiance is also family-friendly, so your family can enjoy your meal in a welcoming Mexican-themed atmosphere.
What to do here?
You need to taste the juicy Al Pastor Burger to figure out why it’s an all-time favorite. It will leave you speechless with grilled pineapple, cilantro, onions, manchego cheese, and tomatillo ketchup hugging the beef patty. Other options you can’t pass on include Chile Con Queso, La Veggie, and Oaxaca Burger, along with fries and salad on the side, pushing it all down with House Margarita.
Best Time to Visit
Burgerteca is open between Tuesday and Saturday, from 11 AM until 9 PM, closing an hour later during Sundays. Drop by for an 11 AM brunch for a meal you’ll continuously keep craving. If you’re coming on a Tuesday, they’re not busy the entire day, meaning you can enjoy the ambiance (and your food) better.
Unleash the kids at Morgan’s Wonderland
What’s special about this place?
A 25-acre park dedicated to children with special needs, Morgan’s Wonderland was a promise-turned-reality by Gordon Hartman for his beloved cognitively challenged daughter Morgan in 2010. He transformed a former quarry site into a park, with 25 safe and easily accessible attractions and rides, hosted by friendly staff to ensure that Morgan’s Wonderland is a fun-filled space. It’s one of the most rewarding places in the city where disability is nothing but a word.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Though it’s targeting children with special care needs, Morgan’s Wonderland is a lovely place where both the young and young at heart can share some smiles and a good time. It’s specifically a worthwhile place if you’re with kids, whether disabled or not. Besides, if your children are perfectly OK, experiencing Morgan’s Wonderland will help increase their awareness.
What to do here?
Let your little ones hop onto the carousel, build castles by the sandbox or run around the pirate-inspired playground. There are also numerous lovely picnic spots at The Picnic Place, so make sure you pack up some snacks and drinks. You and your children can also throw the reel in by the catch-and-release The Wharf then refresh at Water Works’ splash pads.
Best Time to Visit
Morgan’s Wonderland is only open from Friday to Sunday. Hours are 10 AM-2 PM (Friday), 10 AM-4 Pm (Saturday), and 11 AM-4 PM (Sunday). Love is never just a word when you visit here, so make sure you do! You’ll see the world from a whole new perspective, we promise!
Check out the collections at the San Antonio Museum of Art
What’s special about this place?
One of the attractions along River Walk is the 69,500 ft.2 San Antonio Museum of Art housed in the infamous Lone Star Brewery. It’s an art haven with more than 300,000 artifacts and other culturally significant items since 1981, some of which are dating as old as 5,000 years ago! Greek, Egyptian, Asian, paintings, photos, and sculptures, you’ll see one of the massive art collections in southern America at the San Antonio Museum of Art!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
You’ll find priceless treasures here, especially for those who see the world from a creative point of view. If you’re a big history lover, the discoveries you’ll uncover at the San Antonio Museum of Art will surprise you. List this attraction down if you’re still looking for worthwhile things to do in San Antonio.
What to do here?
Scrutinize the exhibits featuring various cultures such as Latin American, Roman, Columbia, and Mediterranean. Ancient artworks by the Nature, Power, and Maya Royals exhibit are also visible, along with paintings by Edward Ruscha and David Smith, and observe in-depth Mexican culture display at the CARA exhibition.
Best Time to Visit
You need to make an advance appointment with the San Antonio Museum of Art to get in. They have free-entry days (Tuesday and Sunday), but it’s only for county locals. Plan your tour around 10 AM, when fewer tourists are around (meaning more peace to focus on the displays).
Enjoy the fresh harvests at Pearl Farmers Market
What’s special about this place?
It’s tempting to be carelessly indulgent when you’re on vacation, but at Pearl Farmers Market, you can grab fresh harvests and organic products without sacrificing yumminess. With options from 50 local farmers and a lively communitarian atmosphere since 1883, you’ll immerse yourself in a truly local experience. Fill up your basket with fruits, vegetables, and other artisanal products shopping through the booths and stalls of Pearl Farmers Market.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If your family is craving some home-cooked meal, this is the best place in San Antonio to purchase your ingredients. Pearl Farmers Market will give you an unlimited selection of healthy options if you’re someone health-conscious. The ambiance alone in this local event is so infectious that anyone traveling in the city will fall for it!
What to do here?
Try out some fresh flavors from Oatmeal & Company, get eco-friendly kitchen wares from Urban Tree Company, and refresh as you stroll with a bottle of cold milk-based drinks from Health Nut Satx. The sellers are all friendly, so don’t be shy to chat up and ask for some special recipe with the items you got from them, like Brisket Hash and Spaghetti Squash with Wilted Greens recipe.
Best Time to Visit
Pearl Farmers Market is operational on Saturdays and Sundays. Saturday is dedicated to local farmers and their fresh harvests, while Sunday is dotted with artisans’ crafts. It is a well-loved local event, so expect it to be thickly crowded.
Go to San Antonio Zoo
What’s special about this place?
A nature sanctuary covering 57 acres of land, the San Antonio Zoo hosts more than 750 species with more than 3,500 wildlife residents since its foundation in 1914. You’ll find both little and big animals housed here, along with their bird collection, one of America’s most diverse. Roam around the zoo riding their San Antonio Zoo Train, a train scouting the best attractions on the ground.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
San Antonio Zoo is a great local spot where your entire family is sure to have fun while learning. For animal lovers in San Antonio, save some time when you visit this zoo since its size is just enough to see numerous animals without spending all day trying to see them. If you’re still scouring for worthwhile city attractions, San Antonio Zoo deserves your effort.
What to do here?
Some of the residents at San Antonio Zoo are komodo dragons, hooded cranes, amphibians, and black bears. Head to the interactive Africa Live exhibit for okapi, rock hydrax, and Nile crocs, feed the birds at Parrots Nest and check out Cat Grotto to see with fossa and black-footed cats purring. San Antonio Zoo is also the mother of the fun-filled Kiddie Park!
Best Time to Visit
San Antonio Zoo is usually not busy from Monday to Friday, between 9 AM and 5 PM. But if you’re in the city for a weekend getaway, start your tour once they open, but expect the tourist herd to come flooding in within an hour. It’s a place sure to bring a smile to your kid’s face, so it’s better to maneuver your way around than miss all the fun (and your children’s smiles!).
Food trip on food trucks
What’s special about this place?
Eat all you can and satiate your appetite on the move getting treats-on-the-go from food trucks scattered on numerous hotspots in San Antonio. This food adventure is a great way to refuel while you scout the city without the need to lose sight of the local scenes. These moving restaurants will serve you some of the best menus you’ll ever taste in your whole vacation!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
The food trucks will prepare the yummiest selections you won’t find in high-end restaurants, so no need to dry out your wallet to enjoy delicious fares. It’s also a great choice if you’re traveling with your family but short on time to dine in. If you’re over San Antonio for a weekend and want to see as much as possible, save time refueling as you stroll when you grab chows from food trucks.
What to do here?
Get your bite from The Point Park’s Uncle Danny’s Snack Shack, Golden Lotus Thai Food, and Monkey’s Tortas. At Area 51 Food Park, servings of comfort food like turkey legs and mashed potatoes are married with live music and aliens roaming around. Street Fare SA’s Tlaloc Mexican Food will also soothe your taste buds with Mex-inspired treats, more than enough to calm you after an exhausting time touring around.
Best Time to Visit
The food parks vary in opening time, so remember to check in with their websites first before heading there. If you’re planning for a whole day of nonstop roaming around San Antonio, plan your stop by the food parks for an efficient time and money-saving experience. That doesn’t mean you sacrifice the tasty satisfaction though!
Detour to Kiddie Park
What’s special about this place?
America’s oldest amusement park dedicated for kids ages 1-12, the 1925 Kiddie Park within the premises of San Antonio Zoo is the ideal addition that makes a visit to the zoo more unique and joy-filled. Armed with child-friendly classic rides and hearty kiddie events, it’s a playpen where no dull time is wasted. Bring lots of smiles to your little one’s face when you take them to the 37,000 ft.2 Kiddie Park.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re touring San Antonio Zoo, make the most out of your visit by taking a detour to Kiddie Zoo. The amusement park is especially a must-visit if you’re tagging along with children. But that doesn’t mean that the rides are a no-go zone for the child at heart!
What to do here?
Enjoy a mellow ride by the Ferris wheel, or let your kiddo go round and round by the wooden hand-carved carousel and have their faces painted. Share a ride with them on the Flying Saucers or, by Helicopter, then let them loose by the donkey ride. If you have a kid with an upcoming birthday, Kiddie Park is excited to host their party!
Best Time to Visit
Kiddie Park is only open between Friday and Sunday, from 10 AM until 7 PM, and closes 2 hours earlier on Fridays. If you’re planning to visit San Antonio Zoo, time your visit for additional excitement. It is a rewarding add-on, especially for your kids.
Dance without care at Thirsty Horse Dance Hall
What’s special about this place?
Let your feet loose at Thirsty Horse Dance Hall, and it might just give you some of the most unforgettable memories to take home. After opening its doors at North Salado Village, it’s been one of the premier country-themed dance halls in town, allowing everyone to unleash the inner performer in them. Whether it’s a contemporary-fused or old-time Wild West tune, you can’t skip grooving and tapping at Thirsty Horse Dance Hall.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
It may not be the headline of your San Antonio tour, but this local tradition will immerse you into the core of Texan culture. Don’t fret if you were asleep when heaven poured down some dancing skills, the friendly atmosphere will provide you with fun. Thirsty Horse Dance Hall is one of the best places to visit in San Antonio for some honky-tonks if dancing runs in your blood.
What to do here?
Enjoy live performances from up-and-coming country performers such as Chris Salinas, JR Herrera, and the Smoke Wagon, some of Thirsty Horse’s regular bands. Touring country artists are also on the line constantly, so you rest assured to dance to the best and diverse music collection in the genre. There are also pool tables to play some rounds while sipping ice-cold beer paired with sliders if you’re in no mood to dance.
Best Time to Visit
You can dance throughout the night starting 7 PM until 2 AM, between Wednesday and Saturday. Remember to be presentable, Thirsty Horse have a strict dress code. Take advantage of the 7 PM dance classes from Thursday until Saturday at no cost at all!
Survey San Antonio Fire Museum
What’s special about this place?
Learn about the city’s fire department history by touring the San Antonio Fire Museum just next to The Alamo. It’s a cradle to vital collections of documents, photos, and equipment showing the development of San Antonio’s fire department since its establishment in 1854. The museum opened in 2003, welcoming interested visitors to the discovery of past accounts of the department, from starting with horse-drawn wagons to its modern state-of-the-art fire trucks and other paraphernalia.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re big in history, exploring the San Antonio Fire Museum will be a rewarding experience for you. There are also engaging interactive exhibits where your children can jump into the learning process while having fun. If you’re searching for another item for your itinerary, adding the San Antonio Fire Museum won’t let you down.
What to do here?
Observe Fire Station 1, where legendary photos, tools, and trucks are on display, and let your little ones dress up with firefighter attires while you take their snaps inside an antique fire truck. Unearth some of the turning points that changed the face of the fire department. The staff is mostly composed of retired officers, so don’t miss the chance to chat up and listen to their personal experiences in the field.
Best Time to Visit
Spend at least 30 minutes before they close at 3:30 PM between Tuesday and Saturday. There’s rarely any herd of curious tourists visiting the San Antonio Fire Museum around 3 PM. It might not take hours to tour around, but the knowledge you take home will leave a mark for long.
Shopping at La Cantera
What’s special about this place?
The Shops at La Cantera will give you a unique San Antonio shopping experience purchasing wardrobe items, gear, and other essentials. From the budget-friendly options to high-end choices, it’s all under The Shops at La Cantera’s roof. Its massive 1,300,000 ft.2 retail center has 194 stores within two stories, more than enough to keep you occupied the whole day!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Shop ‘til you drop can’t be more literal when you all shopaholics out there have a shopping bonanza at The Shops at La Cantera. There are also exciting activities waiting for your kids and plenty of options for every member of your family. If you’re looking for additional clothing or gear replacement while traveling in San Antonio, The Shops at La Cantera surely have it.
What to do here?
Get items from famous brands like Coach, Louis Vuitton, and Claire’s, Forever 21, Gap, and H&M are on sale too. Walking around looking for what to buy can be tiring, so refuel your energy with yummy fares from Chick-fil-A, Bovino’s Churrascaria, and some delicious treats from Grimaldi’s Pizzeria. If you don’t want to spend anything, window shopping isn’t a crime either, plus there are plenty of lovely fountains and displays outside.
Best Time to Visit
Start your shopping extravaganza as soon as they open the doors at 11 AM when shoppers haven’t flooded in yet (except on Sundays when they open at noontime). It’s a great place to escape a particularly humid afternoon in San Antonio. You won’t even notice the volume of the crowd once you start shopping and dining to your heart’s content!
Unlimited selfies with the stars at Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks
What’s special about this place?
Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks at The Alamo Plaza is a space packed with more than a couple hundred wax figures of celebrities and other icons since it opened to the public in 1987. From Hollywood A-listers to comic heroes, snap pictures next to them to your heart’s content. It might’ve seemed impossible to get close to your idols, but Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks makes it all easy for you!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re the always-on-the-know of the showbiz industry type, visiting Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks will be a fun experience for you. Taking you children here will put a smile on their face, especially once they come across their favorite movie characters. Take a tour of this attraction to have plenty of eye-catching posts on your social media feed.
What to do here?
Be prepared with mind-boggling realistic wax figures like A-list celebs like Johnny Depp, Eddie Murphy, Jason Statham, stars from the Twilight movie saga, Harry Potter, Batman, Avengers, and Superman. You might also want to scale up your height next to Lady Gaga, Jimmy Fallon, Jimmy Kimmel, and Michael Jackson. Historical Abraham Lincoln, Barack Obama, a section dedicated to World War II and Korean and Vietnam War exhibits are at Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks too.
Best Time to Visit
The wax museum is typically not busy all day, between Monday and Thursday, from 10 AM until 11 PM. If you’re not sure what day you’ll visit, be there any day as soon as they open to steer clear from the crowd. Louis Tussaud’s Waxworks is also conveniently between River Walk and The Alamo, meaning you can walk through the attractions easily.
Trace the Texas Hill Country
What’s special about this place?
Unpopular it might be, San Antonio is a cradle to numerous wineries known as the Texas Hill Country, offering world-class locally produced drinks. With over 50 wineries to tackle starting in the northern part of the city, the richness of flavors you’ll taste is paired with their diverse history and beautiful greenery. Roll through the vineries, see the processing, and savor the views with a few sips as you trace the wineries of Texas Hill Country.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
The picturesque vistas are a sight to see if you’re a nature lover, while the stories behind the wineries are a treasure for the history geeks. The wine-tasting experience at the Texas Hill Country is a relaxing venture if you’re of legal age wandering San Antonio. There are also family-friendly wineries where you can take your children for some quality time.
What to do here?
Acquire your event passport, which will let you try out the wineries and take home bottles at a discounted rate. Sip wine straight from the Holy Land at Mendelbaum Cellars, experience Vienna-like ambiance at the family-friendly Pontotoc Vineyard while sipping some Estate Tempranillo, and sample the 2017 Alicante Bouschet from Texas Heritage Vineyard.
Best Time to Visit
These wineries differ on open hours, so check out the Texas Hill Country website for the latest schedules and other events. Remember to drink in moderation if you’re driving, especially if you’re with family. Wildseed Farms is also along the way, so why not enjoy the colorful fields as you go!
If you still don’t know, Tampa Bay also has natural wonders you’ll fall for!
Aqua tour at SeaWorld
What’s special about this place?
Covering 250 acres, the massive SeaWorld at Westover Hills District is a marine sanctuary for over 39,000 aquatic animals, six notable live shows. It’s hailed as the world’s oldest marine-related theme park, still operational after opening in 1988. Visit the underwater residents, learn, and get up-close with them when you drop by SeaWorld.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
SeaWorld is a treasure trove if you’re a passionate animal lover or diver. It is a rewarding alternative if you can’t go underwater yet for whatever reason. Spending some time at SeaWorld is a fun learning experience that your children will enjoy and remember for a long time.
What to do here?
Experience what it’s like to carry cute penguins, interact with sea lions, dolphins, and beluga. Tours with sharks, stingrays, and killer whales are also a thrilling experience sure to be remembered long. Don’t leave out saying hi to Kyuquot, the killer whale, before heading for some adrenaline rush by the roller coaster.
Best Time to Visit
Drop by as early as 10 AM and save yourself from the tourist rush. If you have a reserved ticket for a particular show, please arrive at least half an hour earlier. Remember to check out their calendar for occasional special events!
How about a plunge into the deep blue? Check out these majestic diving sites in Florida and encounter marine wildlife in their rawest habitat!
Spend the night at The Bonham Exchange
What’s special about this place?
First opened its doors in 1981 as a community all-athletics center, the 25,000 ft.2 The Bonham Exchange just near The Alamo has thrived throughout the years and is currently one of the best LGBT-friendly clubs in America. Feel free to meet new people, enjoy cocktails and other drinks from more than ten stations while grooving to live house mixes by various DJs. Soak in the lively local nightlife partying all night at The Bonham Exchange’s 3-story club.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re part of the community, you’ll regret missing out on all the fun and excitement happening nightly at The Bonham Exchange. As long as you’re of legal age (18+) to be hanging about inside clubs, you’re more than welcome to join in the wild celebration. Just sneak out of the room once your kids as zzzzing if you tagged them on your San Antonio trip.
What to do here?
Catch an entertaining performance by the local drag queen Tencha La Jefa while sipping your margarita. There’s also a hot chest competition, and acrobats will pour your champagne the aerial way! Drink and dance without any fear of judgment from anyone, and make new friends with like-minded individuals.
Best Time to Visit
Bonham Exchange partying between Wednesday and Sunday, starting 8 PM (2 PM on Sundays) and ends around 2 AM. If you’re solo, remember to take caution if you’re going to be driving home. No one wants any accidents while on holiday (well, in general)!
Brain calisthenics at DoSeum
What’s special about this place?
Sitting along Broadway, the two-story DoSeum is jam-packed with learning activities sure to keep your kids engaged, smiling, and active. Since starting its operation in 2015, DoSeum’s state-of-the-art 68,000 ft.2 facility has instantly become one of San Antonio’s premier child-oriented museums with eight interactive exhibits. Get your brain ticking and build some cognitive muscles scouting through DoSeum, originally known as San Antonio’s Children Museum.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Though DoSeum might be kiddie-focused, every curious mind across all ages will inevitably have fun here. If learning has always been your kids’ forte, they’ll enjoy the challenges to conquer in this museum. DoSeum is a must-visit for any family traveling in the city, so make sure you don’t miss it!
What to do here?
Some of the exhibits to look forward to are the Force Course and Innovation Station. Let your toddlers create their rhythm by the DJ Booth at Sensation Studios, solve the geo-puzzles at eXplore, or start the journey with a scavenger hunt. There’s also the SEMMES Foundation Spy Academy, where your children will face challenges cracking codes to accomplish missions as K9 officers or let them catch some fun under the sun at the Big Outdoors.
Best Time to Visit
There are very few people exploring DoSeum when you visit around 10 AM during weekdays. But if you want to come on a Sunday, do so between 12 PM and 5 PM. There’s also a free-entry Tuesday Family Nights happening every first Tuesday of any month, from 5:30 PM to 7:30 PM.
Do you believe that experience is the best teacher? Then a trip to Austin will be exciting for you!
Purchase vintage items from North Star Antiques
What’s special about this place?
Take home a priceless souvenir when you scavenge through the old-time collections on the exhibits of North Star Antiques just across North Star Mall. With 18 galleries, it has been one of the most-respected antique shops in San Antonio, offering a diverse collection of timeless items within its area. Find something that’s not only unique but packed with history and eternal beauty too at North Star Antiques.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Are you an avid antique collector? Then you’ll have cold-sweat nightmares if you dare miss the eclectic deals in North Star Antiques. If you’re a history lover or you’re simply searching for a souvenir you won’t find in usual San Antonio novelty shops, you need to take some time scanning the objects at North Star Antiques.
What to do here?
Furnishings, lightings, and other art collectibles are all intricately arranged at North Star Antiques. Vintage tables, sofas, treasure chests, plates, glassware, and telephones are also for sale. Select another additional décor for your wall from their diverse collection of paintings or give yourself old-age candelabras for a tang of ancient Europe in your living room.
Best Time to Visit
Scrutinize their collections and see which ticks you between Tuesday and Saturday. Visit for purchase as early as 11 AM so you can have plenty of time meticulously observing the items. Antiques at North Star Mall are reasonably priced, but that doesn’t mean you can just let your money slip for an item that didn’t interest you.
Exchange vows at Marriage Island
What’s special about this place?
Marriage Island is a popular heart-shaped site scaling 25-foot long and 15-foot wide along River Walk, flocked by lovers for its romantic setup. Primarily used as a wedding ceremony venue where roughly 225 couples tie the knot per year, Marriage Island’s beauty is straight-outta-dream, making it one of the best places in San Antonio to get married. It’s a local site to see some romantic scenes!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Though it would be better if you’re with a special someone (and hopefully you’re not bitter about your last situationship), Marriage Island is hard to miss if you’re strolling the River Walk solo. If you’re planning on taking your relationship to a whole new level, this is the place to do so. Singles might even be infected with some dream wedding seeing the happenings here.
What to do here?
Notice the oak tree rooted on the island still standing after a hundred years since its plantation. Perhaps plan your wedding with Marriage Island for your dream ceremony, where you can expect professional services and welcoming staff. The iconic Padre Damian Massanet’s Table structure is also within the boundaries of Marriage Island, built to commemorate the first mass that happened here.
Best Time to Visit
Marriage Island is open everyday, except Sunday. If a wedding isn’t your plan, you can still access it between 9 AM and 6 PM. But if your motive is to take your relationship to another height, contact them via Marriage Island Website for plans and packages.
Attend Chalk It Up
What’s special about this place?
See how simple pavements can turn into priceless chalked works of art when you attend the annual Chalk It Up event. This colorful tradition kicked off in 2003 at Houston Street, with the help of Artpace to promote expression and add more life to San Antonio’s tourism scene. Be one with the locals and the artists, and watch the competition grow into vibrant exhibits when you attend Chalk It Up.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
This contest will delight the creative in your, especially if you’re a passionate artist. Even if you’re not a pro in the field, the happenings at Chalk It Up will fuel your inspiration to sharpen up your art skills. It’s a local event where you and your family are bound to have fun all day long.
What to do here?
Grab your buckets of chalk and find a spot to create your mural or just watch how the pros conjure something beautiful using nothing but imagination and chalks. Let your kids unleash their inner artist, but this festivity is a crowded one, so keep your eyes on them. Live music performances amplify the vibes, and food trucks are everywhere to quench your thirst and feed your hunger.
Best Time to Visit
Note to drop by Artpace’s website for the latest schedule of Chalk It Up. Time your San Antonio trip around the event if you want to participate in the celebration of expression. Expect your efforts to be generously rewarded!
Crunch some treats from Taco Taco
What’s special about this place?
One of the best places to savor your staple but irresistible tasty tacos in San Antonio is by Taco Taco Café. Since opening in 1998 along East Hildebrand Avenue, this eatery has taken the city in a sweep, serving a yummy taco selection with creative twists sure to make anyone addicted. You’ll crave more once you start munching on crunchy tacos at Taco Taco Café!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re in love with tacos, you’ll feel in heaven with every bite you take in this restaurant. The casual ambiance is family-oriented as well, meaning you and your kids can savor your food without any worries. If you’re on the go and looking for something yummy to grab as you wander the streets of San Antonio, Taco Taco Café’s servings will keep you fueled.
What to do here?
Dig in on yummy and big servings of breakfast tacos like Papa Ranchero, Chilaquiles Taco, and Barbacoa Taco or snack on Antojitos with chile con queso and quesadillas flavors. A heavy meal with their Mexican plate will recharge you with rice, two cheese enchiladas, crispy taco, and beans. The signature Puffy Taco Plate is a customer favorite, try one and figure out yourself what’s with the hype!
Best Time to Visit
Get a full tank of delicious Tex-Mex fare before you start wandering around San Antonio. Sit down for an 8 AM breakfast when Taco Taco Café is least busy. Besides, facing tourist traffic during breakfast will only irritate you (like how most people are).
Get lost amidst Mcnay Art Museum
What’s special about this place?
The 23-acre Mcnay Art Museum sits on a 1929 Spanish-Revival-inspired building, a cradle to over 22,000 artworks and other significant creative masterpieces scattered in 24 rooms after its foundation in 1954. Various art styles are oozing in its massive collection, Medieval-rooted, and Renaissance-inspired to modern contemporary pieces. There are also vast volumes of books kept in the Mcnay Art Museum, plus a theater to solidify its commitment to arts.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re passionate about arts, taking a tour here is like finding the treasure pot at the end of the rainbow. Mcnay Art Museum is also a great site to add more fuel to the blooming interest of your kids in arts. It’s a remarkable landmark that deserves a slot in your San Antonio tour.
What to do here?
See creations by world-renowned artists like Pablo Picasso and Vincent Van Gogh, artworks by Pierre-Auguste Renoir and Edward Hopper too. Observe the Navajos Ye’ii tapestry, Squash Blossom Necklace, and the painting of Navajo Weavers at the Southwestern Art section. Theater arts collection, contemporary Latino prints, and a large display of American Art will mesmerize the artisan in you!
Best Time to Visit
Check out the collections at Mcnay Art Museum once the doors open at 10 AM. It’s the best hour with the least people visiting the area. Mcnay Art Museum also offers free-entry Thursdays, between 4 PM and 9 PM, and during the first Sunday of any month.
Savannah is also overflowing with rich culture. So you might want to check out this lively city!
Try out The Alamo at Landry’s Seafood
What’s special about this place?
Sitting at the banks of River Walk, the 1947 Landry’s Seafood is one of the premier seafood restaurants in the city. Experience authentic Gulf Coast dining experience when you save a table at Landry’s Seafood, great food, plus great ambiance, plus excellent services, all packed in one restaurant. Savor your delicious food while sharing some stories and laughter over the table at Landry’s Seafood.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re a food lover, pamper yourself with some yummy seafood fares and other delicious cuisines at Landry’s Seafood. This restaurant is especially foodie heaven if you’re particularly craving some fresh catch. The ambiance in Landry’s Seafood is also great for some family dinners where you can share stories about your travel in San Antonio so far.
What to do here?
It’ll be a crime to skip their signature Shrimp Enbrochette, stuffed with jalapenos, asparagus, and orzo, all wrapped up with bacon. Landry’s Seafood’s Redfish Louisiane, Cedar Planked Salmon, and Seared Jumbo Scallops won’t let you down either. There’s no missing The Alamo to complete your dining experience, a lobster tail weighing 8oz., with asparagus and filet mignon.
Best Time to Visit
You can dine at Landry’s Seafood daily, from 11 AM until 10 PM, with fewer guests in the house between Monday and Thursday. They also offer happy hours happening on weekdays from 4 PM until 6 PM, and it starts at noon on weekends. Take advantage and enjoy your meal for a lower price!
Watch the Cathedral Light Show at Main Plaza
What’s special about this place?
The Main Plaza has served San Antonians as a gathering place to socialize, relax and enjoy the local happenings since 2008. It’s also the host to numerous special events such as The Saga, a light show running for 24 minutes that first kicked off in 2014, with the San Fernando Cathedral as its canvas. Directed by Xavier De Richemont (French artist), the plot revolves around the city’s history, projected in the church’s front with beaming colorful lights covering 7,000 ft.2.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
The Saga is an entertaining event that will delight the eyes of anyone watching, whether you’re with children, someone you love, or traveling in San Antonio solo. It’s an engaging way where you’ll stay hooked learning about the past accounts of the city if you’re a history buff. If you’re still hunting for what to do in San Antonio, The Cathedral Light Show is something you’ll love.
What to do here?
Some notable projections at The Saga are Mexican-themed patterns, faces of heroes like General Santa Ana, James Bowie, and Abraham Lincoln, and narration of the Alamo battle too. The church during daylight is also a sight you need to witness. Reminder, the music can be extremely loud, so if you have sensitive ears, move back a bit, it doesn’t reduce the majestic experience anyhow!
Best Time to Visit
The Saga is on the show three times a night, during Tuesdays and between Friday and Sunday. It’s within the heart of the city, where you can easily access other attractions like The Alamo, restaurants, and hotels like The Menger Hotel, so why miss this amazing show? It doesn’t cost anything anyways!
Aromatherapy at Wildseed Farms
What’s special about this place?
Enjoy aromatherapy the natural way at the 200-acre Wildseed Farms along the Texas Hill Country. It’s a wildflower oasis, where your nose and your eyes (your health in general) will be pampered, with the scents and colors of the plants and flowers that propagate here. Detoxify and rejuvenate yourself away from the bustles of tourist hotspots when you spend some time hiking around the 1983 Wildseed Farms at Fredericksburg.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you want to try out something you only enjoy inside a spa in a wholesome way, visiting the Wildseed Farms will give you the experience. It’s a place particularly worthwhile if you love flowers or you enjoy being in nature in general. Wildseed Farms is a hidden gem waiting to energize any tired soul, mind, and body!
What to do here?
Enjoy your glass of wine while looking at the massive land covered with beautiful flowers like Autumn Beauty, Chocolate Cherry, Moss Verbena, Drummond Phlox, and Grey Stripe Sunflower. Trace the trail for unlimited pictures with the vibrant floras in every direction (no stepping inside the fence though!). They also host a market area where you can grab gardening tools or take home a plant or souvenir.
Best Time to Visit
You can visit Wildseed Farms 7 days a week, from 9:30 PM to 6 PM, and keep in mind that the trails close half an hour before they end their day. Even if the sun strikes the hottest, their Brewbonnet Biergarten serves yummy peach ice cream to keep you cool. No matter what season of the year you come, you’ll find blooming flowers at Wildseed Farms.
Enjoy some tamales at Adelita Tamales and Tortilla
What’s special about this place?Savor authentic Mexican flavors when you come to Adelita Tamales and Tortilla. After opening in 1930, it started as El Popo Tortilla Factory and has been operating as its current name for more than seven decades. Eat tortillas, masa, chips, and tamales made out of stone-ground corn, true to its original recipes through generations.
Who’ll enjoy it here?If you’ve never tried tamales before, or perhaps you’re fond of them, heading to Adalita Tamales and Tortilla for tamales will be a worthwhile experience for you. If you wish to fuel your fire for Mexican flavors, you’ll be amazed at the varieties you’ll find here. Food lovers, complete your holiday in the city tasting these yummy chows or getting your ingredients at Adelita Tamales and Tortilla.
What to do here?Other fares you can munch on are barbacoa, chiccaron, carnitas and menudo. Try out their spicy pork and beans-filled tamales, and expect the servings to be heavily stuffed and long, so it’s worth the effort waiting in queues. Their corn tortillas are the best in town out of their on-site factory, so you might want to take home a bunch for later!
Best Time to VisitSkip the holidays if you can since it can be brutally crowded. Grab your tamales and tortillas between Tuesday and Sunday, from 7 AM until 2 PM. If you hate queues, be there on a weekday to save yourself from any headache.
Myrtle Beach also has its say when it comes to delicious treats, not to mention the lovely beaches! Take a look and start planning your next trip.
Souvenir from Antiques on Hildebrand
What’s special about this place?
Antiques on Hildebrand started its business in 1991 as a family-owned/operated antique shop packed with every vintage item that you can imagine. They have fresh stocks of timeless objects, so you’re sure that there’s something new every single time you drop by. At Antiques on Hildebrand, you won’t run out of buying options, whether it’s furniture for your living room or a simple old-time rug for the kitchen counter.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
If you’re an avid antique collector, the items in this antique shop will lend you plenty of pieces to add to your collection. Are you looking for a unique San Antonio souvenir? Antiques on Hildebrand won’t let you down with all the eclectic and historic pieces you’ll come across.
What to do here?
Most of the antiques here are created with meticulous woodwork creativity and oozing with the allure you’ll only find in vintage items. There are plenty of cabinets, tables, doors, and chairs lining up the walkways. Paintings, chandeliers, sideboards, pots, and small figurines are also out for purchase, so why not take home one?
Best Time to Visit
Purchase your souvenir between Monday and Friday, from 9:30 AM until 6 PM. There are fewer customers inside looking for something, meaning you can take your time scrutinizing the antiques without worrying if you’re blocking the way for other people. Plus, less competition for the item!
Explore King William Historic District
What’s special about this place?
Hailed as San Antonio’s first historical neighborhood, the 25-block King William District was established in the 1800s when early Germans settled and was listed later to the National Register of Historic Places in 1972. Today, it’s a culturally and historically packed zone where remnants of its past are still strongly recognizable. Local artisans also have their novelty shops open, offering unique items for you to take home.
Who’ll enjoy it here?
King William Historic District is a town treasure you must see if you’re a history buff. Are you scouring for an immersive San Antonio experience that travels back to its roots? Then this site is something that you need to explore for a tour that you won’t forget.
What to do here?
Travel back in time when you step inside the Villa Finale or the 3-story luxurious Steves Homestead and soak German culture at Beethoven Maennerchor. Enjoy some peace amidst nature at Chris Park and check out the exhibits at Blue Star Contemporary. Crunch nachos and gulp cold beverages to recharge your energies at The Friendly Spot.
Best Time to Visit
The neighborhood is accessible anytime, but check out the open hours of the attractions and sites you want to visit for exact hours. Liberty Bar and Guenther House are also within the neighborhood, so remember to drop by for some mouth-watering fares!
Munch while you watch a movie at Alamo Drafthouse
What’s special about this place?
It’s not your typical cinema! At the 1997 Alamo Drafthouse, you can chow down on mouth-watering cuisines, yummy staple burgers, and pizza or gulp your favorite craft beer while a world-class show plays on the big screening. Find this unique and fun cinema in 3 locations for a one-of-a-kind experience while satisfying your appetite and eye-feasting on a film. Turn off your phone and no chatters, or you’re out!
Who’ll enjoy it here?
Watching a movie as a family at the Alamo Drafthouse is one of the best things to do in San Antonio altogether. It’s also a great date idea for couples roaming around the city. Saving your spot here will be an unforgettable treat for every movie-goer if you’re fed up with the mundane cinema experience propped with popcorn.
What to do here?
Take a seat for a brunch screening, and Hollywood blockbusters might be on the big screen, such as No Time to Die, Scream, The Craft, and Shaun of the Dead. Freshly baked goodies, toasts, and brewed coffee are also on the menu. Opt for a horror movie while sipping a cocktail or a craft beer from 30 options on tap.
Best Time to Visit
Alamo Drafthouse has three locations in San Antonio, Westlakes, Park North, and Stone Oak, so choose a cinema near your accommodation. See their monthly calendar for an up-to-date lineup of the shows and menu.
Afterthoughts on San Antonio
San Antonio is one hell of a stunning place. So many attractions are filled with entertaining and enriching experiences.
Your week-long getaway might lead to another one. Or your month-long holiday will make you want to stay for good.
Your San Antonio holiday will be an experience of a lifetime, whether you’re solo, with your youngsters, or with a partner.
What things to do in San Antonio topped your travel itinerary?
Do you want to plunge yourself into the culture at The Alamo, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, Mcnay Museum, and San Antonio Museum of Art?
And learn about the city’s history exploring La Villita Historic Arts Village and King William Historic District? You can’t miss the free light show at Main Plaza!
A food trip with delicious fares from Guenther House, Landry’s Seafood, and Burgerteca?
Something healthy from Pearl Farmers Market? Or do you want to stay on the go with yummy treats from food trucks?
You won’t forget about feeling like a local joining in the Fiesta San Antonio either. Absorb all the local vibes walking through River Walk, the Market Square, and participating in Chalk It Up.
Soak up the city beauty riding a carriage, from high up at Tower of Americas, or while relaxing on a river cruise.
An all-nature trip to Natural Bridge Caverns, San Antonio Botanical Gardens, Wildseed Farms, and the Texas Hill Country?
Discover wildlife at SeaWorld, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, and San Antonio Zoo?
No matter what headlined your travel itinerary, one thing is sure of. You’re bound to have a fun and memorable vacation in San Antonio.
So what are you waiting for?
Pick up your backpack and hit the road! Live your dream San Antonio trip!
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FAQ – Frequently asked questions about San Antonio:
No need to dig holes in your pocket to have fun. Check out these activities and take advantage of them while you’re in San Antonio:
Yes.
The violent crime rate in San Antonio is lower than the national average, with a 4.13:1000 crime ratio yearly.
The city is also one of the top ten safest major cities in the country, with the downtown area packed with police authorities. It led to crimes rarely occurring in the area.
San Antonio’s northwestern section is the safest, with only a 1:515 crime ratio.
But just like every place you visit, your best option is to use precautions and common sense. Never leave your vital belongings and stay with your group during nighttime, especially if you’ll be drinking.
Take your vacation between November and April.
The holiday season makes Rive Walk glimmer with colorful lights and decorations. The rodeos are in February, and Fiesta San Antonio happens during April. The Fiesta alone is jam-packed with fun activities you need to experience. Plus, it’s during these times that flowers are in full bloom, so why miss them?
Besides, the summer temperatures in San Antonio can be brutal. Most times, it’s intolerable (not to mention the high rates since its high season). But lots of families still flock since kids are out of school.
Be in San Antonio between November and April to save some bucks, with optimal weather and fun-filled days!
There you go. The Best things to do in San Antonio Texas.
If you are looking for inspiration before your trip read these Short Travel Quotes!