This Historic U.S. City Is Famous for Its River Walk — and Its Iconic Missions Are UNESCO-Recognized
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The top things to do in San Antonio, from seeing the legendary Alamo to eating mouthwatering Tex-Mex cuisine, are endlessly fun. Enjoy the Wild West in style and travel to one of the US’ most exciting destinations.
San Antonio is one of Texas’ most historical and popular destinations. Sights such as the Alamo attract more than 2.5 million visitors annually.
When you visit, you’ll step into history and see a place where outlaws and cowboys once stood. From enchiladas to sizzling fajitas, you’ll also try the famous Tex-Mex dishes that put the city on the world stage as a foodie paradise.
To help you make the most of your visit, we have curated a list of the best things to do in beautiful San Antonio. We chose these based on popularity, Google Reviews, and our own wonderful experiences. Book your tickets and bring your favorite cowboy hat.
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Top Hotels
- Luxury: Kimpton Santo, an IHG Hotel
- Midrange: Drury Inn & Suites San Antonio Riverwalk
- Budget: La Hacienda Inn
Top Experiences
- See the Alamo
- Walk Along the San Antonio River Walk
- Visit the San Antonio Zoo
Remember The Alamo
The Alamo is an obvious top destination, with over 2.5 million people visiting it each year. It was a Franciscan mission in the 18th century. In 1835, it became the scene of the famous Battle of the Alamo.
Today, the Alamo is a symbol of Texas and a must-see if you’re in San Antonio. It’s a UNESCO World Heritage site, full of symbolism and lore.
When you visit, take a guided tour to learn about the fort’s history and the historic battle it witnessed. The entire building is a beautiful reminder of the history of Texas.
Travel Tips
- Go early to beat the crowds: Arrive before 9 AM. The Alamo gets packed later in the day, especially on weekends.
- Check out the nearby gardens: Right next to the Alamo, there’s the Alamo Plaza. It’s a great spot to relax and take pictures, plus it’s free to visit.
- Use the free audio tour: Don’t miss the free audio guide at the entrance. It provides historical insights and helps you explore at your own pace.
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Step into the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is a UNESCO World Heritage Site well worth spending the day in. The park contains four distinct missions with tons of historical monuments and artifacts.
Start at Mission Espada, an 18th-century Franciscan church and one of the first Spanish missions in Texas. Next, visit Mission San Juan and Mission San Jose. Bring your camera, because these historical monuments are incredible!
Take guided tours of the monuments to learn about their history from experts. Visit early in the morning for the best light and to avoid the crowds.
Travel Tips
- Rent a bike to explore more: The park is large, so I recommend renting a bike from a nearby shop. It’s a fun way to visit all four missions without feeling rushed.
- Bring water and snacks: There’s a lot of walking involved, and it can get hot. Pack a water bottle and some snacks.
- Check the tour times: The guided tours at each mission are very helpful. Make sure to check the tour schedule to plan your visit.
Read also: Historical US Cities
Walk Along the San Antonio River Walk
The San Antonio River Walk is a 15-mile walk through history. It stretches along the downtown portion of the San Antonio River.
Enjoy the walk in the morning and take a guided river cruise. You’ll see historical monuments and learn about the incredible architecture. After your cruise, hit up the boutique shops along the shore and take in the beautiful nature surrounding you.
As the day passes, savor delicious cuisine and drinks in one of the local restaurants. Try Tex-Mex favorites and sip margaritas next to the waterfront. You’ll want to stay here forever, guaranteed.
Travel Tips
- Take a boat ride at sunset: The Riverwalk Cruise is a relaxing boat ride through downtown San Antonio. You’ll see its historic landmarks and beautiful landscapes, with a guide sharing the city’s stories along the way.
- Wear comfortable shoes: The walk can take a while, so comfortable shoes are a must. You’ll be strolling through the area, exploring shops, and enjoying the sights for hours.
Read also: US Cities Perfect for Walking
Experience La Villita Historic Village
La Villita Historic Village is one of San Antonio’s most exciting destinations. It was one of the city’s first neighborhoods as it grew after independence. Today, it’s a historical village full of artisanal shops and restaurants.
Walk through the plaza and check out local artists and boutique shops. You’ll find charming local products and great gifts to bring back home.
After shopping to your heart’s content, grab a bite to eat at one of its famous restaurants. Check out the many events that go on in La Villita, including New Year’s and Day of the Dead. It’ll be an experience of a lifetime.
Travel Tips
- Check the event calendar: Check La Villita’s website ahead of time to see what’s happening during your visit, like local art shows and live music.
Read also: Iconic US National Monuments
Enjoy Nature at Brackenridge Park
Brackenridge Park is one of the city’s top destinations for getting lost in nature. You’ll enjoy the desert plant life, including cacti and pines. Colorful birds and wildlife call the park home, and you’ll come face-to-face with adorable critters.
Hike through the network of trails and enjoy the fresh air. There are over 340 acres to explore. Walk over stone bridges and lose yourself in the rural charm.
The park has a Japanese Tea Garden with historical architecture and koi ponds. Visit at night for nightly concerts and events. You’ll feel like a local in this amazing part of the city.
Travel Tips
- Bring binoculars for birdwatching: If you’re into nature, I highly recommend bringing binoculars.
- Rent a paddleboat on the park’s lake: If you’re up for something different, rent a paddleboat at the lake. It’s a peaceful way to enjoy the park from a new perspective.
- Visit the Japanese Tea Garden early: The tea garden is beautiful but gets crowded later in the day. I suggest going early in the morning to enjoy the koi ponds and peaceful surroundings without the crowds.
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View Rare Animals at the San Antonio Zoo
The San Antonio Zoo is a one-of-a-kind destination full of family fun and adventures. The zoo staff cares for endangered animals and rare species. Its conservation efforts are only part of its charm.
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See giraffes, monkeys, and other rare wildlife. Walk through areas such as Big Cat Valley, Kangaroo Crossing, and the popular Hixon Bird House.
There are tons of incredible experiences and animal encounters. From feeding giraffes to learning about lions up close, you’ll have the time of your life. Set aside tons of time because this zoo is one of the best in the country.
Travel Tips
- Get a zoo map at the entrance: The zoo is huge, so grab a map as soon as you enter.
- Visit during feeding times: Check the schedule for feeding times, especially for the giraffes and big cats.
- Wear sunscreen and comfortable clothes: You’ll be walking a lot, and the sun can be strong. Wear comfortable shoes and bring sunscreen.
Read also: Must-Visit US Landmarks
Shop at the Historic Market Square
The Historic Market Square is one of the largest Mexican markets in the country. If you love food, antiques, clothes, and artisanal products, you’re in luck.
There are more than 100 boutiques and food vendors. You’ll get to experience local crafts and meet local artists. See local art at the Centro de Artes Gallery and buy local crafts at the El Merkadito Arts & Crafts.
See the market early to take advantage of the fewer crowds. Grab a sweet dessert at Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia or Mexican candy at El Mercado Snack Bar. Most vendors close up before the evening, so visit in the morning or afternoon.
Travel Tips
- Arrive early for the best selection: The market gets crowded later in the day. I recommend arriving by 10 AM to shop before the crowds and get first dibs on unique items.
- Bring cash for smaller vendors: While many places accept cards, some smaller stalls prefer cash. Having some on hand will make your shopping experience smoother.
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Ride the Coasters at Six Flags
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is one of the country’s best theme parks if you love roller coasters. You’ll get to defy gravity on BATMAN™: The Ride. Or, take a plunge in Hurricane Harbor San Antonio.
Spend the day braving the roller coasters or enjoy a mellower carousel. Hop in go-karts and race your friends and family.
To skip the lines, grab a Pass and go anywhere you like. Besides the rides, the park has weekly events and performances. From theater performances to musical shows, there’s something for everyone throughout the year.
Travel Tips
- Arrive early to maximize ride time: Get there as soon as the park opens to experience the most popular rides with shorter lines.
- Get the Flash Pass: If you want to skip the long lines, I recommend buying the Flash Pass. Getting more ride time without the wait is worth the extra cost.
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Admire Art at the San Antonio Museum of Art
The San Antonio Museum of Art is located on the beautiful River Walk. It was built inside the former home of Lone Star Brewery and is now one of the state’s largest art museums.
Inside, you’ll find over 5,000 years of fine art and artifacts. From Native American art to Egyptian relics, history and fine art converge in this beautiful space. You’ll enjoy a huge collection of Latin American art and modern art.
The museum has rotating exhibits and public tours. Visit during lectures and events to learn about the artists and the museum space.
Travel Tips
- Visit during free hours: The museum offers free admission on Tuesday evenings.
- Take the River Walk path to get there: The museum is along the River Walk, so enjoy a scenic stroll to the museum.
Read also: Best Art Destinations in the US
Sample Tex-Mex Cuisine
If you love Mexican food and Texas barbecue, you’ll love Tex-Mex. While some foodies try to knock it, it’s one of the US’ best contributions to global food culture.
The cuisine comes from a fusion of cooking styles brought by Mexican Americans, Indigenous Americans, and Europeans. It’s heavy on spices, including cumin and chilis, plus tons of cheese and beef.
Fortunately, you can sample authentic cuisine throughout the city. Head to Ray’s Drive Inn for the classics. Or, go a little high-end and classic at La Fonda On Main, the oldest Tex-Mex restaurant in the city.
Travel Tips
- Try the Puffy Tacos at Henry’s Restaurant: I loved the crispy, airy shells filled with seasoned beef or chicken. Henry’s Puffy Tacos (6030 Bandera Rd.) is a local gem, and it’s great for families. Go early for lunch—it gets busy around noon.
- Visit Market Square for Tex-Mex Snacks: I grabbed delicious tamales and churros here. It’s a fun spot to explore (514 W Commerce St.), and parking is easiest at the lot on Dolorosa Street.
- Take a Tex-Mex Cooking Class: I joined a hands-on class at CIA’s San Antonio campus (312 Pearl Pkwy). It was about $100 but worth it to learn how to make enchiladas and margaritas
Read also: Best US Cities for Food Lovers
Cave Dive at Natural Bridge Caverns
Natural Bridge Caverns are amazing natural wonders that will inspire you. You’ll walk through a massive cave complex just a short drive north of the city.
Above ground are zip zines and hikes. However, once you step foot below the surface, the real adventure begins. Enjoy five different underground tours to see the entire cave system.
You’ll learn about the caves from expert guides and take pictures next to impressive geologic monuments. Book your tours in advance and plan to spend several hours exploring. If you’re afraid of bats, just pretend they’re friendly and adorable finches, and you’ll be fine.
Travel Tips
- Book tours in advance: The Natural Bridge Caverns offers a guided tour through a half-mile of stunning underground formations, where you’ll walk 180 feet below ground and see stalagmites and stalactites.
- Wear sturdy shoes: The cave floors can be slippery and uneven, so wear closed-toe, non-slip shoes.
- Bring a jacket: It gets chilly underground, so even in the summer, I recommend bringing a light jacket or sweater to stay warm during the tours.
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Learn About Texas at the Witte Museum
The Witte Museum is one of San Antonio’s most exciting and underrated attractions. Step inside the massive space with astonishing exhibits and guided tours.
You’ll see dinosaur skeletons towering above you and come face to face with rare global artifacts. From samurai helmets to battle swords from Europe, there’s plenty of inspiring history to explore.
The museum’s Texas History exhibit is one of the biggest highlights and draws for tourists. There are over 35,000 artifacts to learn about, so set aside the time. It won’t disappoint you.
Travel Tips
- Plan for at least 2-3 hours: The museum is vast, and there’s so much to see, especially in the Texas History exhibit.
- Check out the special exhibits: In addition to the main collection, the Witte Museum often has rotating exhibits.
Read also: Unique US Museums
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