The best things to do in San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio, Texas is the seventh largest city in the United States. Its unique blend of cultures and traditions gives it an unmistakable charm, but it’s the mix of nature, art, food, and entertainment that has made it the state’s most popular visitor destination.

Home to the iconic Alamo and the emblematic downtown River Walk, San Antonio offers a wealth of attractions for all types of visitors. Families can explore world-class theme parks, nature enthusiasts will appreciate its proximity to the picturesque Hill Country, and festival-goers can revel in year-round celebrations. Art aficionados will be delighted by top-notch galleries, while museums showcase the city's rich Mexican, Spanish, and Indigenous heritage.

With its vibrant cowboy culture and ever-growing metropolis status, San Antonio provides a distinct flavor that is truly unparalleled. Dive into these 15 must-do experiences to uncover the magic of this captivating city.

1. Immerse yourself in art

What is it?

Venture into the spellbinding realm of Hopscotch San Antonio, a 20,000-square-foot sensorial wonderland where artistry and adventure entwine. Plunge into the extraordinary as you surround yourself with boundary-pushing installations that challenge artistic conventions, featuring the creative genius of over 40 local, national, and international artists.

Highlights

Lose yourself in "Light Portal," an interactive installation that places the power of a dazzling, otherworldly kaleidoscope in your hands. Then, enter "GAZE," a thought-provoking installation by the Human Rights Campaign, envisioning a world where LGBTQIA+ individuals experience unequivocal equality and acceptance.

Address

711 Navarro St, San Antonio, TX 78205

Price

Tickets start at $24 per person.

2. Experience a Saturday night rodeo

What is it?

Find authentic Texan spirit among the unmistakable aroma of BBQ and the dulcet tones of country music at the rodeo. During this very Texan tradition, see a spectacular opening ceremony featuring horse-drawn chuck wagons and longhorn cattle parades, alongside exciting performances. Feel the adrenaline rush as fearless contestants compete before dancing the night away to a rollicking live country and western band.

Highlights

Stock up on Western-inspired treasures from classic cowboy hats to artisanal jewelry, then hop on the infamous mechanical bull and chase the elusive eight-second ride (which would make you a near-pro).

Address

401 Obst Rd, Bulverde, TX 78163

Price

Tickets start at $30 per person.

3. Stroll through the Pearl Brewery District and taste legendary tacos

What is it?

Embark on a compelling epicurean adventure through San Antonio, recognized by UNESCO as a Creative City of Gastronomy. Unearth the secret ingredients, masterful chefs, and cultural influences that elevate the city's culinary delights — particularly its mouthwatering tacos — beyond the ordinary. Explore the revitalized Pearl Brewery, now a thriving hub of independent shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Highlights

Check out the eclectic offerings at Feliz Modern Pop, empower artisans at Ten Thousand Villages, or uncover literary treasures at the Twig Book Shop.

How to experience it

Savor a 90-minute culinary adventure with a walking tour led by some of San Antonio’s most enthusiastic food experts. Discover the city's vibrant flavors and hidden gems under the guidance of these passionate foodies. The tour starts at $55 per person.

Address

Pearl Brewery District, San Antonio, TX

4. Drink in the sights on a Riverboat cruise and hop-on, hop-off bus tour

What is it?

Set sail on a fun 40-minute river cruise, narrated to unveil the city's fascinating past and vibrant present. Drift along the picturesque River Walk, a 15-mile network of waterside paths below street level, where bars, landscaped gardens, and riverfront cafes will tempt you in. Then continue on your exploration of San Antonio aboard an open-topped double-decker bus to see the city’s most iconic historic and cultural landmarks, learning all about them as you go.

Highlights

Relish the enthralling journey to each of the 19 must-see destinations, including the legendary Alamo, Veterans Memorial Park, and King William Historic District.

How to experience it

With a combo ticket, seamlessly explore San Antonio's amazing sights without managing multiple bookings and enjoy a 48-hour bus pass to experience the city at your own pace. Combo tickets start around $70.

Address

849 E Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78205 (for river cruise)

5. See beautiful Baroque architecture on a Missions tour

What is it?

Immerse yourself in San Antonio’s rich history and scenic beauty during this half-day excursion. The Spanish-influenced landmarks along the San Antonio River are the main attractions as you explore the stunning architecture and silhouettes of the missions of San José, Concepción, San Francisco de Espada, and San Juan. The Mission Riverwalk Hike and Bike Trail shows off the beautiful landscape and gives you the chance to see local wildlife up close.

Highlights

Marvel at the Rose Window of Mission San José, sculpted in 1775 and considered one of the most exquisite examples of North American Baroque architecture. Don't miss the chance to visit the nation's oldest and longest-running irrigation system, the Espada Aqueduct and Acequia.

How to experience it

There’s no better way to top off this day tour than with a screening of the acclaimed film "Gente de Razon,” a cinematic portal to the region's culture and people. Tours start at $60 per person.

Address

Various locations

6. Gawp at the Tower of the Americas

What is it?

As the tallest building in San Antonio, the Tower of the Americas is somewhat of a show-stopper on most city tours. The 750-foot-tall tower in downtown San Antonio features a revolving restaurant, a 4D theater for a unique virtual tour of Texas, and the Flags Over Texas Observation Deck for breathtaking city views. Engaging murals detail the history of the six flags that once flew over Texas, as well as key events such as Mexico's attack on the Alamo, French explorer Louis St. Denis' mapping of the Camino Real Trail, and Spain's 300-year reign over Texas.

Highlights

Take a virtual journey across the Lone Star State at the Skies Over Texas 4D theater inside the Tower of the Americas, featuring scenes like a Friday night high school football game and close-up encounters with a NASA shuttle at Space Center Houston.

How to experience it

Head to the Tower of the Americas early in your trip for a brilliant view of the city. You’ll spot a ton of places you want to visit from the observation deck, so bundle your entry ticket with a 3-in-1 River Walk cruise and bus tour ticket and you can get straight to exploring them when you’re back on the ground.

Address

739 Tower of the Americas Way, San Antonio, TX 78205

Price

Tickets including the cruise and bus tour start at $74 per person.

7. Learn about endangered species at San Antonio Zoo

What is it?

Home to an astounding 9,000 animals from 750 different species, the San Antonio Zoo in Breckenridge Park is an unforgettable day out for all ages. With a flexible any-day admission ticket, explore the zoo's 56 acres and witness some of the world's most endangered animals — from a flamboyance of flamingos and a conspiracy of lemurs to a cackle of hyenas and sleuths of bears at The Grotto. The Asian Forest’s Komodo dragons and adorable Asian small-clawed otters are a must-see.

Highlights

For an additional fee, you can seek out "behind the scenes" encounters with endangered rhinos or giant Aldabra tortoises.

Address

3903 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78212

Price

Adult entry tickets start at $36.

8. Explore Texan history at Witte Museum

What is it?

Situated at the eastern edge of the 343-acre Brackenridge Park (home of the San Antonio Zoo and Japanese Tea Garden), the Witte Museum engages visitors of all ages with its array of hands-on exhibits. Journey through the fascinating history of Texas from the Cretaceous Era to the present day and discover how past environments continue to shape the landscape and out world.

Highlights

The Kittie West Nelson Ferguson People of the Pecos Gallery features exhibits and miniature models illustrating the daily lives and culture of the Lower Pecos Canyonlands' inhabitants, who resided there for over 9,000 years.

Address

3801 Broadway St, San Antonio, TX 782

Price

Entry tickets are $15 per person.

9. Be captivated by Latin American culture at San Antonio Museum of Art

What is it?

Located in the historic 1880s Lone Star Brewery building, the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) is a captivating cultural experience for visitors. Its collection spans more than 5,000 years of global art and culture and the museum showcases nearly 30,000 artworks. The permanent collection is an impressive array of Latin American art — including Spanish Colonial, Mexican, and pre-Columbian works — contemporary galleries, an Asian wing with Chinese ceramics, paintings, and decorative items, and a focus on works by women artists, artists of color, and artists from San Antonio.

Highlights

SAMA is renowned for having the most comprehensive collection of ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art in the southern United States.

Address

200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio, TX 78215

Price

Tickets cost $20 per person and are valid all day.

10. Explore San Antonio on foot

What is it?

Downtown San Antonio's winding roads and routes, shaped by the San Antonio River and surrounding communities, reveal fascinating pieces of the city's rich heritage. Walking tours cater to a galaxy of interests so anyone can take it all in. Like the sound of an evening stroll to discover a buzzing nightlife? Or a trip to the Mission San José, part of the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas? Or maybe a 2.5-mile art and history tour showcasing public art installations, historic plazas sites, and cultural parks piques your interests?

Highlights

Art-focused walks should include a visit to San Pedro Creek Culture Park, historic Old Mill Crossing, and La Villita, the city's first neighborhood. Alternatively, head to the outskirts of town for a tour of the missions.

Address

Various locations

Price

Tours from $40 per person.

11. Ride with the Rangers at Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum

What is it?

The historic Buckhorn Saloon, where Teddy Roosevelt allegedly recruited Rough Riders and Pancho Villa planned the Mexican Revolution, still features its original furnishings. Down a pint of local brew before visiting the Buckhorn Museum to see its taxidermy collection of over 500 species, including record-breaking specimens and animal oddities. Then, explore the Texas Ranger Museum, showcasing vintage revolvers, shotguns, badges, and photographs of notable Rangers. The museum's centerpiece is Ranger Town, a turn-of-the-century San Antonio replica featuring a saloon, jail cell, blacksmith shop, and the Bonnie and Clyde exhibit with their iconic 1934 Ford V8 Deluxe getaway car.

Highlights

Don't leave without testing your marksmanship skills at the Toepperwein Shooting Gallery.

Address

318 E. Houston Street San Antonio TX 78205

Price

You can bundle entry to the Texas Ranger Museum and a one-day hop-on, hop-off bus pass for $60.

12. Dive into Schlitterbahn New Braunfels

What is it?

The Schlitterbahn waterpark in New Braunfels, about 40 minutes by car from central San Antonio, is a refreshing escape from the Texas heat. The vast resort's 51 rides, water slides, and lazy rivers provide maximum fun, while swim-up bars mean it's not just for kids. There are plenty of restaurants and relaxation areas too, and some of its cabanas come with BBQs. Schlitterbahn’s claim as the "world's best waterpark" might be self-made, but it makes a very good case.

Highlights

Want to float around a heated pool with a swim-up bar on hand? Lava Lagoon is for you. Defying gravity and screaming with excitement is more your speed? Check out the Master Blaster Uphill Water Coaster. Each ride, river, and pool has a Thrill Level (one to five) so you should know what you're letting yourself in for in advance.

Address

400 N Liberty Ave, New Braunfels, TX 78130

Price

Adult tickets to Schlitterbahn New Braunfels start from $39.99

13. Go wild at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

What is it?

Set off on a self-driving tour through this 450-acre park designed to mimic an African safari. You'll encounter over 500 animals from around the world, getting up close and personal with majestic creatures like giraffes, zebras, and ostriches as they roam freely in near-natural habitats.

Highlights

After your safari, refuel with lunch at Safari Camp Grill inside the ranch.

Address

26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266

Price

Adult tickets are $29.

14. Make the most of San Antonio's Mexican culture in the historic Market Square

What is it?

As one of the largest Mexican markets in the US, Market Square features a three-block strip of shops and restaurants, showcasing more than 100 locally owned stores and handcrafted artworks. El Mercado is an indoor treasure trove with everything from pottery to sombreros, perfect for souvenirs.

Highlights

When you’re all shopped out, visit Mi Tierra Café Y Panadería, a San Antonio institution since 1941. Open 24 hours, this restaurant serves traditional Mexican food in an elaborately decorated space complete with festive lights and fiesta flags.

Address

514 W Commerce St, San Antonio, TX 78207

Price

Free to visit.

15. Get your heart racing at Six Flags Fiesta Texas

What is it?

Six Flags Fiesta Texas is worth checking out, even if your childhood days are far behind you. Here, 200 acres of action-packed rides cater to thrill-seekers and families alike. From adrenaline-pumping roller coasters like the Wonder Woman Golden Lasso to kid-friendly attractions like Daffy's School Bus Express, there's something for everyone. Cool off during the summer months at White Water Bay’s swimming pools and water slides. The park's unique location in a limestone quarry adds a touch of desert charm too.

Highlights

Don't miss Dr. Diabolical’s Cliffhanger, the world's steepest dive roller coaster, which opened in 2022.

Address

17000 W IH-10, San Antonio, TX 78257

Price

From $55 for one-day adult tickets.

Produced in partnership with Visit San Antonio

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