What to do in San Antonio, TX

Activities, attractions and tours

Tower of the Americas featuring landscape views, a sunset and a city
Tower of the Americas featuring landscape views, a sunset and a city
San Antonio showing heritage architecture and street scenes
San Antonio
Tower of the Americas which includes night scenes, a city and landscape views

San Antonio Attractions

Everything is indeed bigger in Texas, and this includes San Antonio’s food, theme parks, and the locals’ enthusiasm for their city. San Antonio has also made a spectacle of its riverfront in the best possible way, inviting locals and visitors alike to enjoy walks along the water and dinner with a view. Things to do in San Antonio range from the relaxing to the invigorating. Whether you want to sip fine wines in Texas Hill Country or take a flying lesson designed for first-timers, San Antonio activities are here to please.

Areas & Neighborhoods

While southern charm is universal in San Antonio, there are still a variety of districts that embody their own personal vibe. From the bustling city center to historic districts, any traveler can find a neighborhood in San Antonio that feels custom-built for their vacation style.

Downtown — Downtown San Antonio really is the heart of the city. If you’re looking for the highest number of attractions in San Antonio per capita, this is probably your best bet. From restaurants to outdoor activities, downtown is certainly bustling by any standard. Visit the Historic Market Square, also called El Mercado, to enter some of the best Mexican markets in the area.

Alamo Heights — This neighborhood is often regarded as one of the best neighborhoods in San Antonio, and it is certainly one of the oldest. In Alamo Heights you are met with upscale specialty boutiques, botanical gardens, and many historical homes.

The Deco District — Much like its name suggests, this San Antonio district is inspired by deco art. The district is teeming with everything from theater performances to art installations. It’s also a good place for budding and experienced photographers alike to get in more than a few good snaps of the shutter.

Things to See in San Antonio

Before you head out to take the streets of San Antonio by storm, there are plenty of ways to sit back and be entertained. Venues like the Majestic Theater put on Broadway shows throughout the year, while Ballet San Antonio and its talented team of dancers are ready to stun you with a moving performance. Excellent photo opportunities are easily found at spots like the Japanese Tea Garden, Mission San Jose, and the San Fernando Cathedral. The Spanish Governor’s Palace, a national historic landmark, will impress you with its architecture and worth a short visit.

Things to Do & Attractions in San Antonio

One of the most fun things to do in San Antonio is show up at the River Walk, a network of tree-lined paths along the river, which is open every day of the year. Scream your way down a water slide, get dinner on a river boat, and cap off your day at a nightclub on the River Walk. SeaWorld® San Antonio, the San Antonio Zoo, and Traders Village® are some of the other popular things to do in San Antonio, TX. Of course, when you’re sightseeing in San Antonio, don’t forget to stop and smell the roses. The Japanese Tea Garden and other outdoor spaces dedicated to flowers allow you slow down for just a bit.


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What to do in San Antonio


Popular places to visit

Explore areas of San Antonio

Downtown - Riverwalk showing a river or creek, a bridge and boating

Downtown San Antonio

4.5/5(42 area reviews)

Explore the network of pedestrian paths that follows the beautiful San Antonio River to discover restaurants and bars, gift shops, galleries and museums.

Downtown San Antonio
Marion Koogler McNay Art Museum which includes art and interior views as well as an individual male

Uptown

If you're spending some time in Uptown, San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium and Marion Koogler McNay Art Museum are top sights worth seeing.

Uptown
SanAntonio_SanAntonioSeaWorld_502636_04

Far West Side

While visiting Far West Side, you might make a stop by sights like Aquatica San Antonio Waterpark and Hill Country Golf Club.

Far West Side
River walk in San Antonio

Medical Center District

While visiting Medical Center District, you might make a stop by sights like USAA Corporate Office Headquarters and Cinemark San Antonio 16.

Medical Center District
River Walk in San Antonio, Texas

Fort Sam Houston

You'll love the stunning river views in Fort Sam Houston, and you might want to stick around to check out United States Army Medical Department Museum, a top place to visit.

Fort Sam Houston
Famous American landmark - Alamo mission in downtown San Antonio, Texas, USA

Stone Oak

Stone Oak is known for its abundant dining options, and you can plan a trip to Shops at Hardy Oak and Alta Vista while you're in town.

Stone Oak

 

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Day trip destinations from San Antonio

Frequently asked questions

Is San Antonio worth visiting?
Renowned for its walking trails and dining, discovering awesome things to do in San Antonio is simple. Remember to add San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium to your trip itinerary while here.
How do I spend a day in San Antonio?
Begin your day with a visit to San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium and LEGOLAND® Discovery Centre. Then, tour different areas of San Antonio for a quick bite and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in San Antonio?
Don't go home without exploring San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium, ranked the top tourist attraction in San Antonio.
Is three days enough to stay in San Antonio?
You can easily visit leading attractions like San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium, San Antonio Majestic Theatre and Aztec Theatre with a three-day trip to San Antonio. On average, most travellers book two days here. There's plenty to discover nearby too, so stay a while longer and head to New Braunfels.
Is San Antonio a walkable city?
It depends on what you want to see and do in San Antonio. Several sights, including San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium and San Antonio Majestic Theatre, are accessible on foot. If you're up for a stroll through some of San Antonio's neighbourhoods, Downtown San Antonio is 0.32 kms (0.20 miles) away from downtown, while Alamo Plaza is 0.16 kms (0.10 miles) away from the centre and also within walking distance.
What are some activities to do in San Antonio with kids?
What to do in San Antonio for adults?
There's no shortage of things to do in San Antonio, with entertainment for adults of all ages. Cap off your day with a visit to Frost Bank Centre or Freeman Coliseum.
Are there free things to do in San Antonio?
In San Antonio, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is a top spot for anyone wishing to experience the city without opening their wallet. Also, wander around the other neighbourhoods and green spaces, and speak with a local tour guide. It's a great way to discover the best free things to do in San Antonio.

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