25 Best Things to do in San Antonio, Texas

Looking for a fun getaway in the United States that includes activities for the entire family? Look no further than San Antonio.

San Antonio is a vibrant city located in south-central Texas, just south of the state’s capital, Austin. It is home to the historic Alamo Mission and the state’s only UNESCO world heritage site, the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

Other notable attractions include the exhilarating Six Flags Fiesta Texas and the beautiful San Antonio Botanical Gardens.

The San Antonio River Walk is a great place to visit to really take in the sights of San Antonio and to grab a bite to eat. It’s located in the center of the city, so it’s very easy to visit other nearby attractions.

The culture of San Antonio is a blend of modern American culture, Mexican culture, and early Spanish influence. The melding of these cultures truly creates a vivacious environment that feels so welcoming and hospitable.

You can find something to do in San Antonio no matter your age and interests. Read on to see the 25 best and most fun things to do in San Antonio.

TLDR

I heard you were looking for some of that super strong San Antonio goodness – here’s what I’ve got on me right now;

Best & Fun Things to do in San Antonio, TX

If you’re touring Texas and thinking of things to do, San Antonio is well worth a visit.

1. The Alamo Mission

The Alamo Mission is San Antonio’s most popular attraction. If you know anything about Texas history, you know The Battle of the Alamo was one of the most historic battles of the Texas revolution. 

During this battle led by James Bowie and William Travis, outnumbered Texas volunteer soldiers fought against Mexican soldiers for almost two weeks until eventually being defeated. Their loss was not in vain, though.

In fact, it inspired the Texans to fight even harder and eventually claim their independence from Mexico in March 1836. 

One of the most famous figures from this period, frontiersman Davy Crockett, is still touted as a legendary local hero today.

Ozzy Osbourne was arrested here – for urinating on it. In his dubious defense, he was drunk and had no idea it was the Alamo – or any idea what the Alamo was.

One of the highlights of visiting The Alamo is the Living History Encampment. In this area, historians demonstrate what daily life was like for Texans back in the 1830s. On the weekends, you can even see musket-firing demonstrations in Alamo Plaza.

You can visit the famous Alamo every day from 9:00 am to 5:30 pm This is one of the best San Antonio things to do.

Tickets for a guided tour of the entire Alamo Mission and Fortress are $40 for adults and $30 for children, with reduced rates available. You can buy guided tour tickets for The Alamo here.

The Alamo church is one of the great free things to do in San Antonio, but you must still reserve tickets as space and time are limited.  You can reserve your free tickets for The Alamo church here.

For a fun, spooky alternative, check out this San Antonio Haunted History Tour, a ghost tour. The tour begins at The Alamo and will take you throughout San Antonio, and you will learn more about the history of The Alamo and the spirits that haunt it.

The Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott San Antonio Downtown/ Alamo Plaza is just a five-minute walk from The Alamo and is a great central place to be based during your trip to San Antonio.

See Related: Most Famous Historical Landmarks in the USA

2. San Antonio Fire Museum

Next to The Alamo, you will find the San Antonio Fire Museum. This museum was founded by five San Antonio Firefighters in 1997.

This museum is such a hidden gem in the city and definitely a place to stop by after visiting The Alamo. Visitors can see many antique fire trucks and firefighting equipment dating back to the 1800s.

There are also many interactive things to do for kids, like exploring a 1950s international fire truck and dressing up in authentic replicas of fire fighting gear.

The San Antonio Fire Museum is open every Tuesday through Saturday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and is free for all visitors on the first Tuesday of each month from 12:00 pm to 4:00 pm.

Tickets can be purchased in person at the museum. Admission tickets are $5 for adults, $3 for seniors (60+), and $2 for children 12 and under. Children under the age of 3 and active-duty military (in uniform) can visit the museum for free.

3. San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art is a must-see when vacationing in San Antonio. The museum brings works of art from all over the globe right to you. It is best known for having the largest collections of ancient Greek, Egyptian, and Roman art in the southern United States.

In addition to having a vast permanent collection, the San Antonio Museum of Art hosts several large temporary exhibits throughout the year. You can find something new no matter how often you visit.

The museum was once the location of the famed Lone Star Brewery, which makes it part of local history as well.

After a day at the museum, take a break at the Tre Trattoria restaurant. It is located right there in the museum with a beautiful view of the San Antonio River. The restaurant is Tuscan-inspired and features classic Italian dishes and freshly made pasta.

The museum is open Tuesday through Wednesday from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm with extended hours on Tuesday and Friday until 7:00 pm.

Tickets are $20 for adults, $10 for youth (13-18), and free for children 12 and younger. Reduced rates are available for seniors, students, and military members. Visiting the museum is free for San Antonio residents during certain hours on Tuesdays and Sundays.

See Related: Best Tourist Destinations in the World

4. San Antonio Zoo

A day at the San Antonio Zoo is a great way to please the entire family! It is home to over 3,000 animals from tigers to kangaroos to tortoises and even includes several species native to Texas.

The park is divided into sections to mimic the animals’ natural habitats with several restaurants and snack bars available throughout the zoo.

If visiting in June, try out the Drive-Thru Zoo experience, where you will experience the whole zoo from the comfort (and a/c) of your vehicle. Tickets are $65 per car and the experience happens only on select dates.

Near the entrance of the zoo, you will find Kiddie Park, the oldest children’s amusement park in the country! Kiddie park first opened in 1925 and was recently relocated to the San Antonio Zoo. The retro vibe of Kiddie Park transports visitors to another century.

The special thing about the San Antonio Zoo is that it is a non-profit research and conservation zoo. This way, you know that your visit directly aids in habitat preservation and other conservation efforts to protect wildlife around the world.

The zoo is open every day from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm, with extended hours on Saturday until 9:00 pm. Click here to purchase general admission tickets to the San Antonio Zoo.

Check out this lovely apartment located within walking distance of the zoo if you want to stay nearby.

5. Brackenridge Park

Brackenridge Park is a relaxing, central place to spend a nice, easy afternoon. The park has several walking trails and picnic areas, making it just one of the great free things to do in San Antonio.

Located just north of downtown San Antonio, the park spreads over 343 acres and encompasses several popular San Antonio attractions. These attractions include the San Antonio Zoo, the Japanese Tea Garden, and the Witte Museum.

One of the best tourist attractions in San Antonio is the C.W.T. Express, a mini train that takes visitors around the park and stops at the attractions listed above. The train cost $6 for every visitor and tickets can be purchased directly at the train depot, located near the entrance of the San Antonio Zoo.

See Related: Best National Parks in the USA to Visit

6. Japanese Tea Garden

If you’re looking for a tranquil pause from all the exciting activities in San Antonio, look no further than the Japanese Tea Garden. Stone arch bridges will lead you around exotic flora and peaceful koi ponds.

One of the most beautiful features of the tea garden is the waterfall area. The waterfall is located on the lower level of the garden. The soothing sound of the water makes you forget that you are in the middle of a bustling city.

The Japanese Tea Garden is free to visit and is open every day from 7:00 am to 5:00 pm. An electric scooter tour is available in the Graden.

7. Witte Museum

The Witte Museum showcases the history of Texas dating back to prehistoric times.

The museum includes fossils, art galleries, and even a science center to inspire the youth of today and beyond. So whether you are into history, science, or art there is something for everyone here.

This museum constantly welcomes new and exciting exhibitions, so there is always something interesting to see that you may not have seen before.

A favorite exhibition is “Fiesta Vogue: Outfit of the Day”, which showcases some of the amazing couture outfits worn during San Antonio’s famous Fiesta festival held every April since 1891.

The museum is open every day, Monday thru Saturday 10:00 am to 5:00 pm, and Sundays from 12:00 pm to 5:00 pm. Admission is $14 for adults and $10 for children ages 4-11.

See Related: Best Unusual Museums in the US

8. Historic Market Square

The historic San Antonio Market square is the largest Mexican market in the United States. The colorful market comes to life daily from 10:00 am to 6:00 pm and is filled with over 100 local vendors.

There are many types of businesses such as art galleries, clothing boutiques, and textile shops. When you don’t know what to do in San Antonio, the Market Square is always a great option!

Visitors and locals alike love visiting the Historic Market Square to find handcrafted goods. While shopping and dining, take in the lovely sounds of Mariachi and Tejano music.

Check the market out on the weekends when they host a weekly farmers’ market filled with wonderful locally grown fruits and vegetables.

9. Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Touted as “San Antonio’s Most Thrilling Theme Park”, you have none other than Six Flags Fiesta Texas. It is hands-down one of the best amusement parks in the San Antonio area.

As I’m sure you can imagine, there is no shortage of thrill rides and rollercoasters at this theme park. One of the newest and most innovative rollercoasters is Batman: The Ride. The rollercoaster immerses riders in a 4-D experience around Gotham City as it twists and drops 12 stories.

If rollercoasters aren’t your cup of tea, check out the Texas-sized, Texas-SHAPED wave pool at White Water Bay Waterpark located within Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Six Flags Fiesta Texas is open every day and White Water Bay waterpark is open from the end of April to mid-September each year.

If Six Flags is your main attraction in San Antonio, I recommend staying at the Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio. It is ideally located near the park and includes a complimentary breakfast.

See Related: Top 10 Roller Coasters in the World for Every Thrill Seeker

10. The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum

What’s a trip to Texas without a real saloon experience? The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum is sure to be a fun affair for the whole family! There is so much to see, do, and try all under one roof.

The Buckhorn Saloon is thought to be the oldest saloon in Texas dating back to 1881. It is also rumored to be where the Texas Revolution was planned.

The saloon has several local Texas beers on tap to try. I recommend trying one of Shiner Bock’s seasonal beers for something local and different.

The Texas Ranger Museum within the saloon houses artifacts spanning the entire history of the Texas Ranger program. You can also find the Carnival of Curiosities, filled with optical illusions, and learn about The American Sideshow at the Buckhorn Museum there as well.

Check out the gift shop for some unique finds to bring home.

The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum is open every day. Open hours are 10:00 am to 9:00 pm on Sunday through Tuesday, 10:00 am to 7:00 pm on Wednesday through Friday and 10:00 am to 6:00 pm on Saturdays. You can get your combined Buckhorn & Texas Ranger Museum tickets here.

11. San Fernando Cathedral

The San Fernando Cathedral was founded in 1731 and is the oldest continuous religious community in Texas and one of the oldest in the entire country. It is also known as the Cathedral of Our Lady of Candelaria and Guadalupe.

The cathedral is not only found in the literal center of the city but is also considered to be the spiritual center of the city as well. The church has thousands of active members and holds events all year long.

In terms of architecture, it is truly one of the most stunning structures in San Antonio. It is one of teh best sights to see on a Half-Day Morning Tour in San Antonio.

There is even a free light show display on the exterior of the church every Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday night. The 24-minute light show plays three times (9:00 pm, 9:30 pm, and 10:00 pm) and depicts the history and culture of San Antonio.

The cathedral is open Monday through Friday from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm and Saturday and Sunday from 7:30 am to 6:30 pm.

See Related: Strasbourg Cathedral: A Visitor’s Guide to this UNESCO Site

12. San Antonio River Walk

The famous San Antonio River Walk is a must-see when visiting the city. Restaurants, boutiques, museums, and so many things in between can be found along this 15-mile stretch of the San Antonio River.

The most fun and efficient way to see the entire river walk is by going on this San Antonio River Walk Cruise and Hop-On Hop-Off Trolley Tour.

You’ll start off with a relaxing 35-minute cruise on the river. Then, you’ll get on the trolley to explore the neighborhoods along the river walk where you will be able to get off and explore different landmarks.

Grab a bite to eat at Boudro’s on the River Walk, an American bistro that offers great food and cocktails. Try the Prickly Pear Margarita or a Texas favorite, Ranch Water.

There are so many things to do on the riverwalk in San Antonio, the options really are endless.

The best place to stay along the San Antonio River Walk is the Grand Hyatt San Antonio River Walk. The hotel has a lovely rooftop pool and the luxurious amenities the Grand Hyatt brand is known for.

13. Briscoe Western Art Museum

The Briscoe Western Art Museum is a distinctive museum focusing specifically on the heritage and culture of the American West. It is conveniently located on the river walk, making it a great stop to add to your trip to San Antonio.

The building that houses the museum also has a rich history of being the first public library in San Antonio, first opening its doors in the 1930s.

The art in the museum primarily focuses on the life of the cowboys and Native Americans throughout time. It also showcases the beautiful Western landscape through paintings, drawings, sculptures, and more.

Don’t miss the McNutt Sculpture Garden located in the museum’s courtyard. It is a stunning display of bronze sculptures that depict iconic moments and figures of American history.

The museum is open from Thursday through Monday, 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission tickets cost $12 for adults(12+) and are free for children under the age of 12. Discounted admission is available for seniors, military members, and WIC and SNAP recipients.

See Related: Best Festivals Around the World To Visit This Year

14. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, also known as San Antonio Missions, is an important site for Texas history and Native heritage. It is also Texas’ only UNESCO World Heritage Site.

The park is comprised of four Spanish colonial missions: Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada.

Visitors are encouraged to enjoy several hiking and bike trails within the park. The bike trails connect each mission and are each about 2.5 miles long. I highly recommend taking advantage of the city’s bike-share program, BCycle, for a fun way to visit all of these historic landmarks.

A day pass for BCycle is $15 or $5 for 30-minute rides. You can purchase BCycle passes here.

The San Antonio Missions is managed by the National Park Service. It is open daily from 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. Entry to the park is free and ranger-led activities are also free of charge.

Mission Concepción

This mission was founded in 1755 and boasts the title of the oldest unrestored stone church in the United States.

At Mission Concepción you will find the Four Voice Exhibit, a moving exhibit that depicts the effects of colonization in Texas from the perspective of Native Americans, early explorers, and historians.

Mission San José

Mission San José is fondly referred to as “the queen of the missions” because it is the largest. It just celebrated its 300th birthday in 2020.

This national historic landmark was restored to its original design in the 1930s and has been beautifully preserved.

Mission San Juan

The beautiful Mission San Juan was first founded in 1716 and was fully completed in its current location in 1756. The mission was once a self-reliant community that could sustain its members autonomously.

Today, there is a great demonstrative farm and garden that you can visit to see what life would have looked like hundreds of years ago at the mission.

Mission Espada

Founded in 1690, Mission Espada is the oldest mission in Texas.

The missionaries at this historic mission sought to make life closely resemble their lives back in Spain, so they taught Native Americans how to use traditional Spanish farming instruments.

I really enjoyed the live weaving demonstration at Mission Espada. It was really fascinating to see a traditional loom in action.

See Related: List of US National Monuments (Including Best to Visit in 2022)

15. Morgan’s Wonderland

Morgan’s Wonderland is truly a wonderful gem of San Antonio. It is the world’s first Ultra-Accessible theme park, catering to those with special needs, and is completely wheelchair-accessible.

Morgan’s Wonderland is designed to be enjoyed by those with and without special needs. This truly makes it a place that everyone can enjoy and have a good time.

It is comprised of more than 25 attractions including rides, a sound garden, a sensory village, and several interactive theater options.

Morgan’s Inspiration Island is the water park area of the theme park. It is mostly comprised of several splash pads. Each splash pad has water at different temperatures, so everyone can find a spot that is comfortable and fun for them.

Morgan’s Wonderland is open daily from 10:00 am to 5:00 pm. Admission tickets vary in price but guests with special needs are always free.

16. Natural Bridge Caverns

The Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio are one of the greatest natural wonders in Texas. It is also the largest commercial cavern in the state.

The cavern was discovered by four college students in 1960, but scientists believe the cavern began forming over 20 million years ago! The Natural Bridge Caverns are listed on the National Register of Historical Places because of the important role it plays in preserving natural history.

The cavern combines history, archaeology, and exhilarating fun. Archaeologists have found remains of species believed to have gone extinct over 12,000 years ago.

The top thing to do at Natural Bridge Caverns is to tour the cavern. At the entrance, you will see the massive, 60-foot-long limestone bridge from which the cavern gets its name.

Besides touring the cavern, there are many fun activities on the property including a ropes course and gem mining. After all the fun, stop by Big Daddy’s Sweets for a refreshing lemonade and homemade fudge.

The caverns are open daily. Hours vary depending on the time of year. Ticket prices vary and increase with time, so book tickets in advance to get the best price.

See Related: Best Places to Visit in Montana

17. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Looking for a bit of Africa in San Antonio? Look no further than the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch!

The ranch is located just a few minutes down the road from the Natural Bridge Caverns, so these attractions are great to combine. Rated as one of the top ten safari parks in the country, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch employs only professionals in the animal field that specialize in conservation.

The safari tour is truly an unforgettable experience. There are over 45 species of animals including giraffes, bison, impalas, and monkeys. Many of these magnificent animals are critically endangered in their natural habitats, so it is really a treat to see them in real life.

The ranch is accredited by the Zoological Association of America and is a member of the Conservation Centers for Species Survival.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is open daily from 9:00 pm. Closing hours vary each day from 4:00 pm to 6:00 pm, and ticket prices also vary depending on the day.

18. Blue Star Arts Complex

The Blue Star Arts Complex is a mixed-use property best known for its art galleries showcasing contemporary art. It was the first of its kind in San Antonio, combining artist studios, apartments, and San Antonio’s first brewpub, Blue Star Brewing Company.

The space has always been ahead of its time and continues to be a staple in the San Antonio community.

Check out Bar 1919, a chic speakeasy with a unique cocktail menu. The ‘Luke and the Giant Peach’ is super refreshing and tastes just like summer.

Bar 1919 is rated as one of the best bars in San Antonio, so I highly recommend that you don’t miss it. Other popular tenants in the Blue Star Arts Complex include Flax Studio, Hijole SA, and Divine Sunshine Collective.

The Blue Stars Arts Complex is located in the King William Historic District of San Antonio and is a great place to explore if you are staying in the area. In fact, check out this apartment located right in the Blue Stars Arts Complex for a local experience.

19. King William Historic District

Just south of the heart of downtown San Antonio you will find the King William Historic District. This area is filled with beautifully preserved historic homes, making this a uniquely pleasant experience in the city.

The King William Historic District became the first residential historical district in Texas in 1968. You can even stay in a quaint historic cottage while visiting San Antonio just like this one and a manor like this one.

Early residents of the district were mostly German settlers. One of the most interesting early homeowners in the area was Emma Merck Altgelt.

Described as a “freethinking woman”, Emma was born in Prussia, Germany, and immediately became captivated when she heard of Texas. Emma was one of the very few married women in the United States allowed to keep her property at the time instead of signing it over to her husband upon their marriage.

The King William Historic District is free to visit. But even better is this San Antonio E-Bike Tour for a fun and convenient way to see the historical homes of the district.

20. Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling

Ranger Creek is a combined beer brewery and whiskey distillery located in the Sun Gate neighborhood of San Antonio. The award-winning “brew-stillery” brews more than 10 unique flavors of beer such as Belgian-Style White Ale, Strawberry Milk Stout, and their very own Oktoberfest brew.

The San Antonio Lager is super refreshing and slightly sweet and pays homage to the city where it was created. If you’re a spirit drinker, try the award-winning Rimfire single malt whiskey. It contains notes of mango and banana and the barrels are smoked with local Texas Mesquite.

The tasting room is open from Monday through Thursday from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm and Friday through Saturday from 12:00 pm to 9:00 pm.

Tours of the brewery are given every Saturday at 1:00 pm and 3:00 pm and cost $15 for a regular ticket or $20 for a VIP ticket, which includes a sampling of unreleased flavors.

See Related: Best Breweries in Austin, Texas

21. San Antonio Botanical Garden

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a sprawling park covering 38 acres located just a few minutes away from Brackenridge Park. Visiting the botanical garden can be a peaceful escape from the excitement of the city.

The entire garden is absolutely stunning, but I highly recommend visiting the Lucile Halsell Conservatory. The conservatory houses unique, exotic plants from around the globe. The Texas Native Trail area is also a great place to take in native flora and fauna.

Check out the botanical garden’s Lightscape display if you plan to visit during winter. The Lightscape completely transforms the space into a festive wonderland perfect for the whole family to enjoy.

The botanical garden is open from Friday to Wednesday from 8:00 am to 7:00 pm and on Thursdays from 8:00 am to 9:00 pm. Adult admission is $16 during the week and $18 on weekends. Reduced rates are available for children, students, and military personnel.

See Related: Best Gardens in Europe to Visit

22. McNay Art Museum

The McNay Art Museum first opened its doors in 1954, becoming the first modern art museum in Texas. The museum was originally the home of art collector Marion Koogler McNay and was later converted into an art museum after her passing.

The collection started with 700 works of art and has now grown to over 22,000 permanent works.

Though the museum is known for its vast collection of modern art, I enjoyed the medieval art in the Oppenheimer Gallery. Seeing these oil paintings from the 15th Century and how well preserved they are today is astounding.

The museum is open Wednesday to Sunday at 10:00 am. Closing hours vary between 5:00 pm and 9:00 pm.

Admission is $20 for adults, $15 for students and seniors, $10 for teens, and free for children under 12, military personnel, and SNAP and WIC recipients. To save money on admission, visit on Thursdays between 4:00 pm and 9:00 pm when admission is free for everyone.

23. Tower of the Americas

The Tower of the Americas is a 750-foot tall tower built for the World’s Fair in 1968. Today the tower is an observation deck and the best place to get a glimpse of the entire city.

The Tower of the Americas was once the tallest in the United States; until the Stratosphere was erected in Las Vegas in 1996.

At the top of the tower, the observation deck rotates slowly, taking in panoramic views of the city. There is a restaurant, cafe, and a bar at the top, so feel free to sit and relax while enjoying the gorgeous views.

Tickets can be purchased in person for $16.50 for adults, $13 for seniors and military, $12 for children aged 4-12, and free for children under the age of 4. This includes admission to the observation deck, a 4D ride, and the Flags over Texas exhibit.

24. Pearl Brewery

The Pearl Brewery is one of the first breweries in San Antonio, opened by German settlers in 1894. The original Pearl beer brand is the sister brand to Beck’s beer.

Today, the Pearl has become a community where you can eat, drink, and live- there are even apartments here. The property hosts outdoor movies at the amphitheater and a twice-weekly farmers market.

I try to find a farmers’ market in most cities I visit to really get a sense of the local community. It’s also a great place to find souvenirs to bring back home.

The grassy areas are great for children to play and get their energy out while adults stop for a coffee break.

Check out the beautiful Hotel Emma at Pearl. The restaurant in the hotel features local seasonal fare, perfect to get a real taste of San Antonio.

25. Majestic Theatre

The Majestic Theatre is one of San Antonio’s oldest theaters and also the largest. The theater is a National Historic Monument, first opening its doors in 1929, and a mainstay of the city to this day!

The Majestic Theatre is home to Broadway in San Antonio. Besides Broadway plays, you can also catch a concert or comedy show.

The theater itself is truly a sight to behold. The design makes you feel like you are walking through a work of art. You can also easily check out her sister theater, the Empire Theatre, built in 1913 at the site of San Antonio’s original opera house.

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