50 Things to do in San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio offers a unique blend of rich Texas history, vibrant Mexican-American culture, and stunning natural beauty centered around its famed River Walk. This welcoming city invites exploration of centuries-old missions, lively marketplaces, and world-class attractions, with plenty of fantastic free things to do in San Antonio like strolling along the river or visiting historic plazas adding great value. From the Alamo’s hallowed grounds to festive gatherings, San Antonio provides a memorable Southwestern experience.
This guide presents fifty distinct ways to dive into the heart of Alamo City, covering iconic landmarks, cultural treasures, family fun, outdoor escapes, and culinary delights. Whether you’re drawn by history, seeking entertainment, or simply want to soak up the relaxed atmosphere, prepare to discover the diverse charms that make San Antonio a beloved Texas destination.
The River Walk & Downtown Gems
Stroll the River Walk: Explore the network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, lined with restaurants, shops, and lush landscaping below street level. Simply walking this iconic urban waterway is an essential San Antonio experience.
Take a River Cruise: See the River Walk from a different perspective aboard a narrated electric barge tour. Learn about the city’s history and architecture while gliding along the scenic downtown canals.
San Fernando Cathedral: Visit one of the oldest active cathedrals in the United States, located in Main Plaza. Admire its beautiful architecture and catch the free “San Antonio | The Saga” video art projection on the facade on select evenings.
La Villita Historic Arts Village: Wander through this charming historic arts village near the River Walk, featuring artisan shops, galleries, and restaurants housed in restored historic buildings. It offers a glimpse into early San Antonio life and unique crafts.
Hemisfair Park: Explore the grounds of the 1968 World’s Fair, now a downtown park featuring playgrounds like Yanaguana Garden, green spaces, and the Tower of the Americas. It’s a great spot for family recreation and relaxation.
Tower of the Americas: Ride the elevator up this iconic 750-foot tower for panoramic views of San Antonio and the surrounding area from the observation deck. Enjoy dining in the revolving restaurant for a unique perspective.
Main Plaza: Relax in the historic heart of San Antonio, located in front of San Fernando Cathedral. Often hosting markets and events, it’s a central gathering place that reflects the city’s Spanish colonial origins.
Arneson River Theatre: See the unique open-air theatre where the stage is on one side of the river and the audience sits on the other. Check for performances or simply admire this picturesque River Walk landmark.
Torch of Friendship: Admire the large, vibrant orange abstract sculpture located downtown, a gift from the Mexican government symbolizing cooperation. It’s a striking piece of public art near the river.
Historic Missions & UNESCO Site
The Alamo: Visit the hallowed grounds of the famous 1836 battle site and former Spanish mission. Explore the historic chapel and grounds to learn about this pivotal moment in Texas history (free timed reservations often required for church entry).
Mission San José: Explore the “Queen of the Missions,” the largest and most fully restored mission along the Mission Trail. Visit the impressive church, granary, and surrounding walls to understand mission community life.
Mission Concepción: Admire the beautiful original frescoes still visible inside the church of this well-preserved Spanish colonial mission. It stands as one of the oldest unrestored stone churches in America.
Mission San Juan Capistrano: Visit this mission known for its picturesque chapel and historic acequia (irrigation ditch) system still in operation. Explore the grounds and learn about early farming practices.
Mission Espada: Discover the southernmost mission, retaining much of its original character and featuring a unique arched aqueduct nearby. Explore the church and grounds, experiencing the relative tranquility of this site.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Visitor Center: Start your Mission Trail exploration here (located near Mission San José) for informative exhibits and park ranger guidance. It provides valuable context for understanding the UNESCO World Heritage site.
History, Museums & Culture
Spanish Governor’s Palace: Tour the last remaining example in Texas of an aristocratic 18th-century Spanish Colonial townhouse. Admire the period furnishings and architecture, offering a glimpse into colonial administrative life.
Buckhorn Saloon & Museum and Texas Ranger Museum: Explore quirky collections of wildlife, cowboy memorabilia, and Texas Ranger artifacts housed within a historic saloon setting. It offers a unique blend of Texas history and oddities.
Witte Museum: Discover Texas history, natural science, and cultural heritage through engaging exhibits focused on the region. Explore dinosaur skeletons, wildlife dioramas, and Texas art in this family-friendly museum.
Briscoe Western Art Museum: Explore art and artifacts reflecting the history and culture of the American West, housed in a beautiful building near the River Walk. Admire paintings, sculptures, and artifacts celebrating the cowboy and Native American experience.
Institute of Texan Cultures: Learn about the diverse ethnic groups that settled Texas and shaped its unique cultural landscape. Located at Hemisfair, it celebrates the state’s rich multicultural heritage.
Casa Navarro State Historic Site: Visit the preserved 1850s adobe home complex of Tejano patriot José Antonio Navarro. Learn about his life and the contributions of Tejanos to Texas history.
Arts & Entertainment
Majestic Theatre: Catch a Broadway show, concert, or performance at this stunningly ornate historic theatre downtown. Admire the atmospheric architecture, designed to resemble a Mediterranean village under a starry sky, for a magical entertainment experience.
Tobin Center for the Performing Arts: Experience performances by the San Antonio Symphony, Ballet San Antonio, Opera San Antonio, and touring artists in this state-of-the-art venue on the River Walk. Check their schedule for diverse cultural offerings.
Aztec Theatre: See concerts and events at another beautifully restored historic theatre downtown, known for its elaborate Meso-American Art Deco design. Its unique interior provides a memorable backdrop for performances.
Blue Star Arts Complex: Explore contemporary art galleries, studios, and unique shops located in a renovated warehouse complex in the Southtown Arts District. Visit during First Friday art walks for a lively atmosphere.
Hopscotch: Immerse yourself in interactive and experiential art installations created by various artists. This unique downtown gallery offers playful and photogenic art encounters.
Parks, Nature & Outdoor Fun
Japanese Tea Garden: Wander through beautiful pathways featuring stone archways, koi ponds, waterfalls, and lush plantings located in Brackenridge Park. This former rock quarry transformed into a serene garden oasis offers free admission.
Brackenridge Park: Explore one of San Antonio’s oldest and largest public parks, home to the zoo, Japanese Tea Garden, Witte Museum, and Sunken Garden Theater. Enjoy picnic spots, playgrounds, and the San Antonio River flowing through.
San Antonio Botanical Garden: Discover diverse plant collections across themed gardens, including a futuristic conservatory complex and a family adventure garden. Explore acres of beauty showcasing plants from Texas and around the world (admission fee required).
Friedrich Wilderness Park: Hike trails through scenic Hill Country landscapes offering various difficulty levels just northwest of the city. Look for native wildlife and enjoy panoramic views from higher elevations.
Government Canyon State Natural Area: Explore dinosaur footprints preserved in a creek bed and hike rugged trails through protected Hill Country wilderness northwest of San Antonio. It offers a glimpse into the region’s natural and prehistoric past.
Natural Bridge Caverns: Take guided tours through spectacular underground limestone caverns filled with unique formations just north of San Antonio. Above ground, enjoy zip lines and other adventure activities.
Medina River Natural Area: Hike or bike trails through woodlands and alongside the Medina River south of the city. It provides a peaceful escape for enjoying nature and bird watching.
Phil Hardberger Park: Explore this large urban park featuring trails, playgrounds, dog parks, and the unique Robert L.B. Tobin Land Bridge allowing wildlife (and people) to cross over Wurzbach Parkway. Enjoy both natural areas and developed amenities.
Confluence Park: Admire the innovative, petal-like concrete structures designed for water catchment and shade at this park near the confluence of the San Antonio River and San Pedro Creek. It’s an example of sustainable design and a unique architectural landmark.
Family Attractions
San Antonio Zoo: See animals from around the world in naturalistic habitats located within Brackenridge Park. Explore diverse areas like the savanna, rainforest, and aquarium for a fun family day out.
DoSeum: Engage children with interactive exhibits focused on science, technology, engineering, arts, and math (STEAM) designed for hands-on learning and creativity. This museum provides hours of educational fun for kids.
Morgan’s Wonderland & Inspiration Island: Visit the world’s first ultra-accessible theme park and water park, designed for individuals of all abilities. Experience inclusive rides and attractions in a welcoming environment.
SeaWorld San Antonio: Experience marine life shows, thrilling roller coasters, and animal encounters at this large theme park. Cool off at the adjacent Aquatica water park during warmer months.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Enjoy thrilling roller coasters, water park rides (included with admission), shows, and entertainment set against a dramatic quarry wall backdrop. It offers high-energy fun for thrill-seekers.
Neighborhood Exploration
King William Historic District: Stroll through the beautiful streets of Texas’s first designated historic district, lined with magnificent Victorian-era mansions south of downtown. Admire the impressive architecture and tree-lined avenues.
Southtown Arts District: Explore the eclectic area encompassing King William and Blue Star, known for its art galleries, unique shops, diverse restaurants, and laid-back vibe. It’s a hub for local artists and creativity.
The Pearl District: Discover the trendy mixed-use development housed in the former Pearl Brewery complex north of downtown. Enjoy acclaimed restaurants, boutique shops, the Culinary Institute of America, a farmers market, and events on the beautifully landscaped grounds.
Historic Market Square (El Mercado): Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the largest Mexican market in the United States, featuring colorful shops selling crafts, clothing, and food. Enjoy live music and authentic flavors in this bustling cultural hub.
Food, Drink & Local Flavor
Try Puffy Tacos: Sample San Antonio’s unique contribution to Tex-Mex cuisine – tacos with shells that puff up when fried, typically filled with seasoned meat, lettuce, and tomato. Find local favorites like Ray’s Drive Inn or Henry’s Puffy Tacos for the authentic experience.
Tex-Mex Feast: Indulge in classic Tex-Mex dishes like enchiladas, fajitas, and queso at one of the city’s many beloved restaurants. Enjoy margaritas and festive atmospheres found throughout the city, especially near the River Walk and Market Square.
Visit a Historic Dance Hall (Gruene Hall Day Trip): Take a short drive north to historic Gruene (near New Braunfels) to visit Texas’ oldest continually operating dance hall. Catch live music in this legendary venue for an authentic Texas experience.
Sample Local Craft Beer: Explore San Antonio’s growing craft brewery scene, with taprooms offering diverse styles in neighborhoods like Southtown and near downtown. Find your favorite local brew and enjoy the casual brewery atmosphere.
Attend Fiesta San Antonio (Seasonal): If visiting in April, experience the city’s biggest party, a multi-day festival celebrating San Antonio’s diverse culture with parades, food events, music, and pageantry. It’s a vibrant city-wide celebration.
