Things to Do in San Antonio

The city has evolved over the years, and the list of the greatest things to Do in San Antonio has risen in pace; you can no longer explore the city in a single afternoon, as San Antonio is now a weekend destination. So are you eager to plan out your weekend getaway? Well, then start by taking a stroll along the San Antonio River, which has been transformed into a system of paths that zigzag beneath the city's many bridges. You can take your family on a safari at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch for a truly entertaining day trip. As you travel through the private property, you may observe the animals peacefully grazing on its three spacious pastures.

Your kids will be enthralled by the abundance of wildlife they encounter, from zebras and wildebeests to emus and ostriches, and many others besides. For an interesting journey, visit the Alamo Roman Catholic Mission, which provides a wonderful opportunity for the family to learn about the Mission's intriguing history through numerous centuries, from Native American teaching to its position as a military bastion. However, if you are looking for fun things to do in San Antonio, you should definitely take the kids to Kiddie Park to ride timeless favorites like the Helicopter and Flying Saucers.

Things to Do in San Antonio

Visit  Mission San Jose
Visit Mission San Jose

This lovely, historic mission was constructed in 1720 and dedicated after Saint Joseph and the Marqués de San Miguel de Aguayo, the governor of Coahuila and Texas. Tragically, following the Mexican secularization legislation of 1833, the Mission fell into a protracted period of steady decay. Throughout the years, many of the stunning original structures have been renovated and restored; you can hear everything about this in a short documentary before strolling through the tranquil grounds. The Mission is accessible for free and has a wonderful gift shop.

Stroll Around River Walk
Stroll Around River Walk

Taking a stroll along the San Antonio River is one of the greatest (and healthiest) things to Do in San Antonio. The river has been transformed into a network of walkways that wind beneath bridges, each with two parallel pathways lined with bustling shops, bars, and restaurants that lead to the city's most popular attractions. During the annual springtime Fiesta San Antonio, when brightly adorned floats leisurely float down the river, the location has become a major tourist draw.

Visit Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
Visit Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Taking the kids on a safari for an action-packed day trip is one of the most fun things to do in San Antonio. In the Lone Star State of Texas? Quite the opposite, in fact! On its 400 tree-filled, gently sloping acres, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is home to 500 animals (no predators or elephants) across 40 species. Zebras, wildebeests, emus, ostriches, and countless more will thrill your children, and many may even approach the car. Even better, you can make as many passes through as you like! With your admission, you'll receive a complimentary bag of food.

Explore The Alamo
Explore The Alamo

The Alamo Roman Catholic Mission, which is now a museum, was established in the 18th century and informs visitors about the 1836 renowned Battle of the Alamo. The Mission has a rich and varied history, from its use as a school for Native Americans to its involvement as a fort during the Mexican-American War. The tour instructors are knowledgeable and enthusiastic about the Mission's history, so you are certain to discover a great deal of fascinating information. Don't forget to stop by the gift shop for some unique keepsakes including a replica of the war diorama.

Have fun at San Antonio Botanical Garden
Have fun at San Antonio Botanical Garden

Every season, the 38-acre botanical gardens make for a wonderful day with the kids. From the delicate blooms of the Rose Garden to the vivid foliage of the tropical plants and wild grasses of the desert-like rural area, the gardens present a breathtaking array of natural color with each passing season. Take a stroll through the WaterSaver Garden to obtain some ideas for your own garden renovation from the many resources available. Stopping by the bird blind along the trail and watching various birds up close is one of the memorable things to Do in San Antonio. Lastly, eating a delicious sandwich in the garden's cafe after you've explored the grounds is one of the fun things to do in San Antonio.

Visit Natural Bridge Caverns
Visit Natural Bridge Caverns

When in the United States, taking the kids to see the country's largest known natural caves is one of the unmissable activities to do in San Antonio. The Natural Bridge Caverns, was named after the awe-inspiring 60-foot natural limestone slab bridge that covers the entrance to the cavern's theater. Visit with the kids and explore the underground chambers with paved and lighted walks to see the incredible formations. The miniature mining town features a maze and a panning station where youngsters can search for gold and other jewels.

Explore Majestic Theater
Explore Majestic Theater

If you enjoy live performances, nothing will enhance your day (or night!) more than a trip to the historic Majestic Theater. The theater is both the city's oldest and its largest. The 2,311-seat theater, which was built between 1989 and 2014 and was planned in 1929 by architect John Eberson, once housed the San Antonio Symphony. It was officially recognised as such in the year 1993. This theater also holds the distinction of being the first fully air-conditioned theater in the state. A good time to dress up or relax during the day!

Visit San Antonio Museum of Art
Visit San Antonio Museum of Art

The San Antonio Museum of Art has been welcoming visitors and locals since its opening to the public in 1981. Over 30,000 objects spanning 5,000 years of global culture may be seen in the museum's wide galleries. These include major pieces of Greek, Roman, and Egyptian antiquities, as well as those of Latin American, Pre-Columbian, Asian, and Contemporary art, all of which are displayed alongside detailed explanations. In addition, one of the satisfactory things to Do in San Antonio is shopping from an awesome gift shop and enjoying a wonderful cafe.

Explore San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Explore San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Seeing the many San Antonio Missions in one location is best accomplished by visiting the Missions National Historical Park. Attending a Mission meant that they had to sacrifice their prior lives and accept their new religion. Many of the churchgoers today are actually descended from the first Mission Indians who constructed the churches. Those interested in visiting four Missions in pristine condition that don't cost anything and provide a quiet place to reflect on life can do so in any of these four.

Visit Morgan’s Wonderland
Visit Morgan’s Wonderland

Morgan's Wonderland truly is a place of surprise and delight for all visitors, young and old, able-bodied and otherwise. This 25-acre park was formerly a limestone quarry but has since been refurbished and now features more than 25 different attractions. Gordon Hartman's daughter Morgan, who has serious cognitive problems, prompted him to create the park. For five years running, the park's pleasant atmosphere, security, and helpful employees have attracted over a half a million guests from all over the globe.

Checkout Guenther House
Checkout Guenther House

For a unique gastronomic experience, visit Guenther House, the award-winning restaurant of flour milling pioneer Carl Hildebrand Guenther. You can take a tour of the beautifully renovated 1860 mansion before or after your meal at the restaurant, which is open every day for breakfast and lunch. It's possible that this is a good plan after feasting on the restaurant's specialties, such as quiche, small blueberry muffins, and more.

Shop at La Cantera
Shop at La Cantera

Doing some light hours of window shopping in a picturesque area that is both beautiful and unique is one of the offbeat activities to do in San Antonio. This huge mall has retailers suitable for all ages. It is well-marked and provides a variety of amenities such as a play area for children, a place to cool down in the shaded outdoor lounging areas (heated in the winter), and a place to use the restroom without worrying about germs.

Explore San Antonio City

FAQ's of Things to Do in San Antonio

What should I do for my first time in San Antonio?

    Some of the most fun things to do in San Antonio for first timers are getting your camera-roll and sugar fixes by trying handmade pan dulce and breads at La Panaderia, and having an immersive art experience at Hopscotch. You can head to the River Walk and gaze at the stunning architecture flanking the river. At Pearl District, you can enjoy literature readings at Twig Book Shop, jam out to live music at the weekly night market, and eat and drink at the Bottling Dept Food Hall.

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