If shopping, eating, fun activities, tempered with history make up your holiday goals, then San Antonio is just the place for you. One of the largest cities in the US, it is a pure reflection of life in Texas. A medley of entertainment, diversity, and cultural exuberance, there are just too many things to do in San Antonio Texas.
While history buffs have a lot to savor in San Antonio — Spanish colonial Missions, museums, the River Walk, etc., shopaholics and activity seekers will love it here. Even nature lovers get their share of tryst with greenery and wildlife. Whether you are traveling solo or with family, there won’t be a dull moment ever in this city.
Mission San Jose
One of the four Spanish frontier missions of the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park, Mission San Jose was founded in 1720. A part of the city’s historical heritage, it was then named for Saint Joseph and the Marqués de San Miguel de Aguayo, the governor of the Province of Coahuila and Texas.
The mission is an active parish and visitors can attend the Sunday mass. Take a break from being a tourist and stroll around the mission premises for some quality time of solitude.
By Steven B Yount, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 6701 San Jose Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214, US | Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/4bCjtegkjFGoQgC17 | Phone number: +1 210-932-1001
San Antonio River Walk
One of the best things to do in San Antonio is to take a walk along the San Antonio River — a network of pathways lined with shops, restaurants, and bars connecting the city’s major tourist attractions. The river walk was conceptualized by architect Robert H. H. Hugman as a flood control measure. Now, a tourist spot, the walk has become the soul of the city. Special attractions include an annual spring festival featuring decorative floats drifting along the river.
Address: 849 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205, US | Timing: 24/7 | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/Lb8AkwEfwa9J5NdS6 | Phone number: +1 210-227-4262
The Alamo
Steeped in history, the Alamo Roman Catholic Mission reflects stories of the independence of Mexico and the Spanish colonization. Currently serving as a museum, the Alamo was founded in the 18th century and tells the tales of the Battle of the Alamo in 1836. A guided tour will help you learn more about the Alamo’s contribution to the education of Native Americans, its role as a military fortress, etc.
By A. Michael Uhlmann, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205, US | Timing: 9:00 am to 5:30 pm | Google map location: https://g.page/OfficialAlamo?share | Phone number: +1 210-225-1391
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
An “African Safari, Texas style” — that’s Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch for you. Spread across more than 400 acres, this natural ranch is home to 500 animals of 40 different species. Watch the animals freely roam around as you drive through the ranch. If you are lucky enough, some of them will greet you by walking right up to your car. An ideal place to visit with family and kids.
Address: 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, US | Timing: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/XgLqYDd2PU78mGBb7 | Phone number: +1 830-438-7400
Pearl District: Coolest neighborhood in San Antonio
Shops, eateries, museums — you name it, the place has it. Set up in a more-than-a-century old brewery (1883-2001), Pearl District is best known as a culinary and cultural hotspot. The neighborhood is home to some of the finest restaurants, an amphitheater, specialty shops, the famous Emma Hotel, and a Farmer’s Market.
Raise a toast at one of the bars, relax on the vast green spaces or hop around the for some retail therapy (our pick: The Twig Book Shop, Ten Thousand Villages, Niche at Pearl, and many more) — this place is ideal for all sorts of fun things to do in San Antonio.
By Bypassers, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: San Antonio, TX 78215, US | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/2xeQ43XCxJWJD6jBA
San Antonio Botanical Garden
One of the best places to visit, San Antonio Botanical Garden has over 300 plant species and is divided into smaller gardens such as the Japanese garden, rose garden, water-saving garden, and a sensory garden. A great spot for family outings, go hiking on the Texas native trail, walk through the botanical tunnel at the Lucile Halsell Conservatory, go birdwatching or check out the Auld House (the largest pinon pine cabin in the state).
By I, Zereshk, CC BY 2.5, Link
Address: 555 Funston Pl, San Antonio, TX 78209, US | Timing: Tuesday-Saturday: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sunday-Monday: Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/sabotgarden?share | Phone number: +1 210-536-1400
Majestic Theatre
A must in your list of stuff to do in San Antonio. With a seating capacity of over 2,000 people, the theatre hosts Broadway shows, concerts, dance performances and stand-up comedy shows. Designed in the Spanish Mediterranean style in 1929 by architect John Eberson, Majestic is the city’s oldest theater. It has undergone multiple facelifts and was designated a National Historic Landmark in 1993.
Address: 224 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205, US | Google map location: https://g.page/MajesticEmpire-SATX?share | Timings: Will depend on the shows | Phone number: +1 210-226-5700
Natural Bridge Caverns
One of the most endearing things to see in San Antonio, this largest known natural cave in the US gets its name from a huge 60-feet natural limestone slab that serves as a bridge. Large caves, ancient formations, mining trails for gems and fossils, obstacle courses — there is adventure and fun at every corner. Choose from a variety of tours and spend some rejuvenating time with your family and friends.
By Yinan Chen, Public Domain, Link
Address: 26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266, US | Timing: Tuesday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Wednesday-Sunday: 9:00 am to 4:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/naturalbridgecavernstx?share | Phone number: +1 210-651-6101
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Connected by the River Walk, this UNESCO World Heritage Site holds four Spanish missions — Mission Concepcion, Mission Espada, Mission San Juan, and Mission San Jose. An amalgamation of history and architecture, this destination has many stories to tell.
Established in the early 1700s, the park is a mix of Spanish and indigenous cultures, whose significance traverses national boundaries. You can attend services at all four missions, check out the ongoing events or make friends with some of the freely roaming animals.
By Liveon001, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 6701 San Jose Dr, San Antonio, TX 78214, US | Timing: 9:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/6KQfVMgaF2TKW65M7 | Phone number: +1 210-534-8875
San Antonio Museum of Art
The San Antonio Museum of Art has over 30,000 objects representing 5,000 years of culture from across the world. The collection includes both antiquities and contemporary Greek, Roman, Egyptian, Latin American, Pre-Columbian, and Asian works.
Built along the San Antonio River Walk, the museum is part of a complex that once housed the Lone Star Brewery. This place should be on your list of things to do in San Antonio TX. Just the sheer volume of artwork makes it one of the most sought-after places to visit in San Antonio.
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By Nan Palmero, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215, US | Timing: Tuesday and Friday: 10:00 am to 7:00 pm, Wednesday-Thursday and Saturday-Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/YadiFZS4nThTLz4Y6 | Phone number: +1 210-978-8100
Guenther House
A dining den with historical significance is just what you need on a holiday! Established in the mid-19th century, the building was the family home of Pioneer Flour Mills owner Carl Hilmar Guenther. Currently, the premises house an award-winning restaurant, a museum, a store, and a space for hosting private events. Dining at the covered patio is an experience. The menu: Deli sandwiches, in-house cookies, breakfast tacos, quiche, blueberry muffins and more… time to drool!
Address: 205 E Guenther St, San Antonio, TX 78204, US | Timing: Wednesday to Sunday: 8:00 am to 2:00 pm, Monday-Tuesday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/Q3xs11MoY22mgJDB9 | Phone number: +1 210-227-1061
Morgan’s Wonderland
The theme park was developed by Gordon Hartman and inspired by his daughter Morgan who has a severe cognitive delay. You can have a ball at this amusement park, which has something in store for every member of the family, with special needs or not.
Enjoy the attractions, most of which are specially designed for differently abled people. Take a joy ride on the carousel or roll over in the sand play area. Awesome picnic spots make for some fantastic family time.
Address: 5223 David Edwards Dr, San Antonio, TX 78233, US | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic. Please check https://www.morganswonderland.com/ for the latest timings | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/LUrTCCD8ye1U7LWEA | Phone number: +1 210-495-5888
The DoSeum
If you are traveling with kids, then the DoSeum should top your must-visit list. A great choice for San Antonio attractions and considered one of America’s best learning facilities, this children’s museum is an educational as well as a fun destination. Watch your little monsters spread their wings through learning, creation, invention, and discovery.
The place offers plenty of creative programs, interactive exhibits, a musical staircase, boat rides on the children’s river, an interactive robot named Baxter, a spy academy, a tree house… phew! The list is endless! Visit the DoSeum with your family as your little ones indulge in the fun activities.
Address: 2800 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209, US | Timing: Monday and Thursday-Saturday: 10:00 am to 1:00 pm; 1:30-4:30pm, Sunday: 1:30-4:30pm, Tuesday-Wednesday: Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/TheDoSeum?share | Phone number: +1 210-212-4453
Reveal your inner shopaholic at The Shops at La Cantera
If you still have some shopping left to do, then this is ‘the’ place for you. Get a heady dose of retail therapy from several branded and non-branded shops or take a snack break at one of the many dining options. If nothing, spend some lazy time relaxing in the shaded complex and just watch people go by.
By Zereshk, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 15900 La Cantera Pkwy, San Antonio, TX 78256, US | Timing: Tuesday-Thursday: 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, Friday-Saturday: 11:00 am to 8:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/QR686H15C2RcvP5c9 | Phone number: +1 210-582-6255
Support the local Farmer’s Market
As a tourist, isn’t it a great idea to support local businesses while visiting a place? What better way than backing the local farmers! Do not forget to add it to your list of San Antonio things to do. The city has several farmer’s markets with a Farmer’s Market Association. Visit any of them for fresh produce sourced from local farmers. Popular venues include the one at Pearl District, the Legacy Farmer’s Market, Huebner Oaks Farmer’s Market, etc. This should be one of the highlights of your San Antonio activities.
Address (San Antonio Farmer’s Market Association): 100 Jackson Keller Rd, San Antonio, TX 78216, US | Timing: Tuesday and Saturday: 8:00 am to 1:00 pm, Sunday-Monday and Wednesday-Friday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/KzyVRsYbYCbGXn4R9 | Phone number: +1 210-204-7939
Spend some quality time at Yanaguana Garden
Wondering what to do in San Antonio? Visit the Yanaguana Garden — an ideal retreat for people of all ages. This landscaped park is the perfect destination for a family day out. Kids can make the most of the ample play spaces, while the activity areas for adults are pretty cool, as well. Stay back till the evening as the garden is decked up with colorful lights while you dine at the outdoor restaurants.
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By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 434 S Alamo St, San Antonio, TX 78205, US | Timing: 5:00 am to 12:00 am | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/gyfk57ytqcP7wCcR7 | Phone number: +1 210-709-4750
Ranger Creek Brewing and Distillery
One of the most interesting places to go in San Antonio, take a guided tour of the city’s best brewery and distillery, or rather “brewstillery”. Learn how to make beer and bourbon while you get to sample a few of their products, as well. And all of these for just $10. Now, isn’t that worth raising a toast?
Address: 4834 Whirlwind Dr, San Antonio, TX 78217, US | Timing: Monday-Thursday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Friday-Saturday: 12 am to 9:00 pm, Sunday: Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/rangercreek?share | Phone number: +1 210-339-2282
El Mercado
The largest Mexican market around, El Mercado or the Market Square is a throbbing cultural hub with options for everybody — from foodies to shopaholics to music lovers. Equally popular among tourists and locals, the outdoor plaza has stone fountains, ornamental streetlights, trees, and benches. A potpourri of activities, El Mercado boasts of shops with Mexican crafts and clothing, lip-smacking Mexican treats, and live bands. What better way to spend a family vacation!
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By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 514 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207, US | Timing: Thursday, Friday, and Sunday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Saturday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Monday-Wednesday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/KnLUzrfqzg9o6LLGA | Phone number: +1 210-207-8600
San Pedro Springs Park
Spanning across 46 acres, San Pedro Springs Park is the second oldest park in the US. A day amid nature, fresh air, and sunshine with loads of activities — what more can one ask for while on vacay! Spend a refreshing day with your family and friends. Plan a picnic or play tennis, go for a swim in one of the best swimming pools in Texas, or enjoy some barbeque.
By Larry D. Moore, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 2200 N Flores, San Antonio, TX 78212, US | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/UzzvcUc53Y9qnLDr9 | Timing: 05:00 am to 11:00 pm | Phone number: +1 210-732-5992
Buckhorn Saloon and Museum
Drop by at the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum to view the eclectic collection of taxidermy while you sip on some beer. Opened in 1881 by local bellhop Albert Friedrich, the saloon has a unique story of how it got its collection. When customers failed to pay by cash for a drink, Friedrich asked them to pay with horns, pelts, and other objects. The saloon is one of the most sought-after museums with plenty of weird objects on display. Visit the Texas Ranger Museum, check out the quirky rotating exhibits, or try some munchies at the café.
Address: 318 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205, US | Timing: Tuesday-Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/buckhornsaloonandmuseum?share | Phone number: +1 210-247-4000
McNay Art Museum
The McNay Art Museum, built by artist and art collector Marion Koogler McNay, is the first of its kind museum in Texas. The Spanish colonial mansion that was turned into a museum in 1954, is home to artworks by Van Gogh, Diego Rivera, and Picasso, which are part of McNay’s personal collections.
The museum currently has 22,000 pieces including medieval, Renaissance, 19th-21st-century European and American paintings, sculptures, and photographs, Art of New Mexico, the Tobin Collection of Theatre Arts, and Jeanne and Irving Mathews Collection of Art Glass.
By Zereshk, CC BY-SA 3.0, Link
Address: 6000 N New Braunfels Ave, San Antonio, TX 78209, US | Timing: Wednesday-Friday: 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Saturday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Sunday: 12:00 to 5:00 pm, Monday-Tuesday: Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/mcnay-art-museum-san-antonio?share | Phone number: +1 210-824-5368
Japanese Tea Garden San Antonio
This garden was restored and reopened in 2008 as a complex with walkways, stone bridges, a waterfall, an island, ponds filled with Koi and a Japanese pavilion. A day trip to the garden will transport you to a different zone altogether. The place is also an ideal venue for small functions such as weddings, memorial services, or corporate gatherings. You can even grab a bite at the renovated Jingu House Café.
Address: 3853 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212, US | Timing: 7:00 am to 5:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/8VzuwftdEkPjs7NMA | Phone number: +1 210-559-3148
Main Plaza — The Heart of the City
If just lounging around while soaking in the local spirit is your idea of holidaying, then head to the Main Plaza situated right at the center of the city. Dating back to the 1700s, this place has lots of fun activities lined up for you and your family — buzzing restaurants, live music, and shops. Do not miss the light show projected onto the oldest cathedral in the country, San Fernando.
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By Nan Palmero, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 115 N Main Ave, San Antonio, TX 78205, US | Timing: 7:00 am to 11:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/5P8j9pkgxkz8QSM76 | Phone number: +1 210-225-9800
San Antonio Zoo
Still wondering what to do in San Antonio? Drop by at this 35-acre natural extravagance — a cage-less zoo with a great collection of close to 10,000 animals of more than 700 species. Kids love this place as much as adults do. Apart from animal gazing at this century-old zoo, you can engage in fun activities like watching exhibits, visiting the Real Wild Fun Farm or feeding birds. Hop on the zoo eagle for a train ride around the place with your family.
By Dave Stone, CC BY 2.0, Link
Address: 3903 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212, US | Timing: Tuesday-Thursday: 10:00 am to 2:00 pm, Friday: 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Saturday-Sunday: 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/ciq4fsMtV5mEgpPK9 | Phone number: +1 210-734-7184
Wildseed Farms — Largest Wildflower Farm in the US
Looking for more places to visit in San Antonio? Head out of the city to spend a day amid nature and enjoy the fragrance of 200 species of wildflowers. Besides checking out landscaping ideas at the live plant nurseries or buying wildflower seeds, you can also stop by to sample a glass of wine from the vines of Texas Hill Country grapes. Shop at Blossoms Boutique, Lantana Nursery while you savor ice cream at the Brewbonnet Biergarten. The variety on offer as San Antonio attractions will never tire you!
Address: 100 Legacy Dr, Fredericksburg, TX 78624, US | Timing: 9:30 am to 5:00 pm | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/BW3xqijQsUpywpub8 | Phone number: +1 830-990-1393
Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center
When a group of artists comes together to represent a city’s art and culture, the outcome is bound to be stunning. Part of the many grand San Antonio attractions, the property has the largest Virgin Mary mosaic in the shape of a prayer candle, at a height of 40 feet. Take a tour of the center to know more about how it preserves Latino culture. On offer are dance and music shows, and theater programs.
Address: 1301 Guadalupe St, San Antonio, TX 78207, US | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic. Please check https://guadalupeculturalarts.org/ for the latest timings | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/u3p21HMftwKMbQKz8 | Phone number: +1 210-271-3151
Fort Sam Houston Museum
Located in the historic Fort Sam Houston Quadrangle, the Fort Sam Houston Museum is a storehouse of stories of the Fort Sam Houston since its inception in 1845 as the Post at San Antonio. The museum has around 8,000 artifacts about the fort’s history, images, and tales of events and people who played important roles in transforming it into one of the largest military installations in the US.
By Articseahorse, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 1405 E Grayson St, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234, US | Timing: Sunday: 12:00 am to 12:30 am, Monday-Saturday: Closed | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/xT26rLdd9NzUC3NUA | Phone number: +1 210-221-1886
Institute of Texan Cultures
Located within the University of Texas campus, the Institute of Texan Cultures lets you experience the multicultural stories of people who have made Texas their home. Built in 1965, the institute tells stories of immigrants who made a life for themselves in this state. Visit the library to flip through photographs, books, manuscripts and 700 recorded oral histories of these people.
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By Michael Barera, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 801 E César E. Chávez Blvd, San Antonio, TX 78205, US | Timing: The timings may have changed owing to the pandemic. Please check https://texancultures.utsa.edu/ for the latest timings | Google map location: https://goo.gl/maps/V8ts7qnYM9QiewzPA | Phone number: +1 210-458-2300
Enjoy Marine Life at Sea World San Antonio
Wind up your holiday with a trip to the SeaWorld. Spread across 250-acres, it is one of the largest marine-life theme parks in the world that focuses on conservation, education, and animal rescue. A day at this park would give a new meaning to your trip. Imagine having a choice between penguin interaction and swimming with dolphins! The animal tours include these and many more such as swimming with whales, sharks, and sea lions, etc. Rides, roller coasters, plays, shows, along with dining and shopping options make a trip to this destination worth every penny for the entire family.
By Bypassers, CC BY-SA 4.0, Link
Address: 10500 Sea World Dr, San Antonio, TX 78251, US | Timing: Saturday and Sunday: 10:00 am to 05:00 pm, Monday-Friday: Closed | Google map location: https://g.page/SeaWorldSanAntonioTX?share | Phone number: +1 210-520-4732
With so much stuff to do in San Antonio, you would need at least a week to do justice to your trip. Plan wisely to make the most of it and ensure not to miss out on any of the amazing things to do.