Things to Do in San Antonio Texas
San Antonio is one of Texas’s biggest and most vibrant cities, boasting plenty of fun activities for visitors of all ages to do – from museums to zoos – offering something fun for everyone here!
Are you in search of an exciting day trip that will appeal to the whole family? Consider making Six Flags Fiesta Texas your destination; this amusement park features roller coasters, water slides and shows!
The Alamo
History buffs won’t want to miss visiting The Alamo. Situated at the center of downtown San Antonio, this 4.2-acre compound contains historical monuments, buildings, and even an entire museum devoted to its heritage.
Established as a mission in 1718, the Alamo is one of the oldest structures in Texas and widely considered one of the most significant landmarks. Once home to Catholic missionaries and later used as an American Army quartering compound.
In 1845, when Texas was annexed by the United States, its most iconic symbol – The Alamo – quickly became associated with courage for this new state. Quartered troops of the U.S. Army used this location, and during the Mexican-American War between 1846-1848 soldiers revived its battle cry as an act of wartime courage.
The Alamo complex is home to various historical sites, such as a national park and Witte Museum. Daily operations at the Alamo are managed by Daughters of the Republic of Texas – an organization of women descended from early Texas pioneers – while all visitors must pass through security at each entrance and exit before entering.
Visitors to this reverent space may explore the church, which pays homage to 189 men who fought for Texas independence on March 6, 1836, or explore Long Barrack – once used by missionaries as their convento, or residence.
Today, the Long Barrack serves as a museum that highlights 300 years of Alamo history. It includes historic buildings such as Convento Courtyard containing a water well from mission period days.
Daily demonstrations at the Alamo include live historical activities like firing and fire starting, textile production and leather working – an invaluable way to experience its history from a fresh angle!
Initially established by the Spanish to convert Native American tribes to Catholicism, it later became a military outpost and eventually bought by the U.S. Government in 1845.
In the early 1800s, many historical structures surrounding the Alamo were being demolished due to commercial development. At that time, its surrounding area had become home to chili queens, small local businesses, and larger developments; but several local women decided to fight back by taking steps to preserve its history.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
One of the top attractions in San Antonio TX is to visit the historic San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. Here, four missions that once stood along San Antonio’s riverfront can be found under one roof and form this UNESCO World Heritage site that has been preserved and restored.
Spanish missions were established during the 17th and 18th centuries to spread Catholicism among native peoples of Texas. Missionaries such as Dominicans, Jesuits and Franciscan friars lived among local tribesmen while spreading Christianity.
These missions were restored and preserved throughout the 19th and 20th centuries; today they remain an important part of city history. Many now serve as active Catholic parishes; some even hold worship services!
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park offers four main missions that you can explore: San Jose, Concepcion, Espada and San Juan. All four boast beautiful buildings and historical significance that are well worth seeing!
Explore the park by hiking, biking or taking the bus – there is even a 10-mile long trail which winds around all of the missions from Alamo southwards towards Mission Espada!
Natural Bridge Caverns offer more adventurous activities. Take guided tours through massive limestone caverns while learning their history; additionally, try your hand at ropes courses or zip lines! Visit their website for updates and plan your visit today!
Visit Historic Market Square for a vibrant and artistic outdoor plaza filled with restaurants, shops, bars and other fun attractions – one of the largest Mexican markets in the US and an excellent place to discover local artisans’ products!
The Witte Museum
The Witte Museum in Brackenridge Park is dedicated to telling the stories of Texas from prehistory through modernity, featuring several permanent exhibits dedicated to natural history as well as various cultural displays and dioramas. Furthermore, The Witte offers programs and events sure to make for an engaging visit for all members of your family.
For your next San Antonio vacation, the Witte Museum is an ideal destination. Offering fossils, dinosaurs and history exhibits among its extensive collection, this museum provides visitors with an immersive look into Texas heritage.
History buffs should visit the Spanish Governor’s Palace, once built as a presidio by Spain. Situated between Market Square and River Walk, the palace served as home for their governor who ran their empire.
The Spanish Governor’s Palace provides an ideal way to explore San Antonio’s rich architectural history, featuring stunning artifacts that showcase its cultural past. Don’t miss it if you want a full understanding of San Antonio and its people!
As you tour San Antonio on a day trip, explore one of Texas’s most beloved sites – The Alamo. Once serving as the center for religious life in San Antonio, today it stands as one of its major tourist attractions.
If the environment is your passion, consider visiting Confluence Park along the riverfront. Here, the focus is conservation and environmental education as well as educational activities that teach kids more about San Antonio River watershed areas. It’s also an enjoyable place for families.
The Carver Cultural Community Center offers an exciting variety of performances and events that celebrate the diversity of Los Angeles. A popular destination for African American culture, many acclaimed performers have graced this stage in years gone by.
The DoSeum
The DoSeum in San Antonio, Texas is an amazing destination for families with kids of all ages to visit in Texas. Offering interactive exhibits that keep them occupied for hours while teaching important lessons about science, history, and culture; The museum hosts free Family Night on every first Monday from 5 to 7 p.m.
McNay Art Museum in San Antonio is another incredible attraction, boasting an incredible 25-acre campus and boasting an outstanding collection of paintings and sculptures by such master artists as Pablo Picasso, Paul Gauguin and Diego Rivera. Additionally, there are unique exhibits using plants and gardens to highlight historical stories.
One of the must-see experiences in San Antonio is visiting the Alamo, scene of an iconic 1836 battle for Texas independence from Mexico. Families will find this historical site an engaging way to learn about San Antonio and Texas history – not to mention discover their roots!
Tours of the McNay Art Museum offer an unforgettable way to learn more about this incredible institution, while simultaneously seeing all it has to offer. Tours can be taken either individually or as small groups and are led by knowledgeable guides who will talk about its incredible collection.
If you’re seeking something a bit more active while visiting San Antonio, why not give the River City Run Tour a try? This guided 5K tour features a live guide who will lead the group from stop to stop with historical information at each one?
Pearl Brewery is another top attraction in San Antonio and makes for an excellent stop to grab quick lunch or an extended dining experience. Boasting both an indoor tasting room and outdoor seating space, this brewery makes for the ideal location to unwind while sipping on something delicious from their beer list.
