Museums and Attractions
The River Walk (Paseo del Rio)– A must-do and right around the corner from the host hotels. Take a narrated river cruise, dine at one of the many restaurants and bars, shop, or stroll along the water’s edge.
The Alamo– A pivotal historical site of the Texas Revolution. It’s a key piece of Texas and American history you can’t miss. New renovations have expanded exhibitions and interior space, allowing for additional artifact displays and content. Part of the CityPass.
San Antonio Museum of Art– Features a diverse collection of art, from ancient to contemporary. Located on the Riverwalk and part of the CityPass.
Briscoe Western Art Museum – Within walking distance of the host hotels, this modern museum houses art & artifacts reflecting the history & culture of the American West.
Ripley’s Believe It or Not! – Museum within walking distance of the host hotels with kitschy oddities on display, including shrunken human heads and rare animal skeletons.
LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio – Located right next to the Convention Center
Witte Museum: Blends nature, science, and culture with exhibits on dinosaurs, Texas wildlife, and rotating special exhibitions. Part of the CityPass.
Parks and Outdoor Activities
Historic Market Square: Known as the largest Mexican market in the US, it’s a vibrant place to explore, shop for unique gifts, and enjoy authentic Tex-Mex food.
San Antonio Missions National Historic Park: Beyond the Alamo, this UNESCO World Heritage Site includes several other historic Spanish missions (Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, Mission Espada). You can explore them and learn about the region’s rich history and architecture.
Japanese Tea Garden– A serene and beautiful outdoor space with year-round flower displays, a waterfall, and a koi pond – perfect for a relaxing stroll.
San Antonio Botanical Garden – 41-acre, non-profit botanical garden close to other outdoor attractions. Part of the CityPass.
Hemisfair– Iconic park behind the Convention Center housing Tower of the Americas, Institute of Texan Cultures, and a playground. Dogs allowed. The Towers of America offers incredible panoramic views of the city from its observation deck and a revolving Chart House Restaurant for a unique dining experience. The Towers of America is part of the CityPass. It also has a 4D theater Ride.
San Antonio Zoo – Has one of the world’s largest bird collections including over 750 species. Part of the CityPass.
Natural Bridge Caverns – Explore spectacular underground caves with guided tours. Some adventure activities like a zipline course are also available.
Natural Bridge Wildlife Park – Huge ranch with a petting barnyard, plus driving & walking encounters with giraffes, zebras & more.
Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo – Located right off I35 in New Braunfels, Snake Farm Zoo is a fully accredited Zoological Park that homes over 500 different species of animals established in 1967.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas – Nationally renowened amusement park includes 11 rollercosters and a waterpark.
SeaWorld San Antonio – Experience SeaWorld San Antonio for thrilling rides, water park, animal adventure & amusement park attractions in Texas the entire family will enjoy!
Schlitterbahn Waterpark (New Braunfels) – World famous waterpark with some attractions using natural spring-fed water. Discounted park tickets can be purchased at any H-E-B location.
Food Culture
San Antonio is a culinary gem, especially known for its Tex-Mex cuisine and a vibrant food scene that goes beyond. Here’s a breakdown of must-try foods:
Tex-Mex Staples (a must!):
- Puffy Tacos: This is a San Antonio specialty! The tortilla is deep-fried just enough to puff up, creating a light and airy shell that’s then filled with various fillings like shredded chicken, picadillo (seasoned ground beef), beans, or cheese.
- Breakfast Tacos: A breakfast staple in San Antonio. You’ll find endless variations with eggs, potatoes, cheese, bacon, chorizo, and more, all wrapped in a warm tortilla. The “trash can taco” at Tacosn Salsa is a popular, all-inclusive option.
- Barbacoa and Carne Guisada Tacos: These slow-cooked beef fillings are incredibly flavorful and a weekend tradition for many locals.
- Enchiladas: Whether you prefer classic cheese enchiladas with chili gravy or more elaborate versions, San Antonio has a wide array to offer.
- Fajitas: Sizzling platters of grilled meat (chicken, beef, or shrimp) with peppers and onions, served with warm tortillas and all the fixings.
- Queso: Creamy, cheesy dip perfect for dipping chips.
Other Local Specialties & Influences:
- Pan Dulce: Mexican sweet bread, often enjoyed for breakfast. Conchas are a popular variety. You can find these at local bakeries.
- Pozole: A traditional Mexican soup made with hominy, meat (usually pork or chicken), and garnished with various toppings like cabbage, radishes, and lime.
- Chilaquiles Verdes: Fried corn tortillas drenched in a bold green salsa, often served with eggs for breakfast or as a side.
- Tamales: Steamed cornmeal dough filled with various meats or cheeses, often enjoyed around the holidays but available year-round.
- Chicken-fried Steak: A classic Southern comfort food, a breaded and deep-fried beef cutlet often served with gravy.
- Texas BBQ: While not unique to San Antonio, Texas is famous for its barbecue, and you’ll find excellent options for slow-smoked brisket, sausage, and ribs.
- Esquites/Elotes: Corn-based street food. Esquites are off-the-cob, while elotes are eaten right off the cob, typically seasoned with chili, lime, and cheese.
- Texas Quail: A local delicacy, this small bird is prized for its delicate flavor and is often prepared in various ways, from barbecue to more creative dishes.
Where to Find Them:
San Antonio has countless fantastic restaurants for Tex-Mex and beyond. Some highly-regarded spots include:
- Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia: A historic and festive spot in Market Square, open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, known for its Tex-Mex and pan dulce.
- La Fonda on Main: San Antonio’s oldest Mexican restaurant, offering both classic Tex-Mex and interior Mexican dishes in a slightly more upscale setting.
- Rosario’s ComidaMex & Bar: A popular spot in Southtown known for its vibrant atmosphere and flavorful Tex-Mex.
- Garcia’s Mexican Food: A long-standing local favorite for classic, laid-back Tex-Mex.
- Henry’s Puffy Tacos / Ray’s Drive Inn: Iconic places to try the famous puffy tacos.
- 2M Smokehouse / Smoke Shack / Curry Boys BBQ: For top-notch Texas barbecue, with Curry Boys offering a unique Asian-BBQ fusion.
Don’t be afraid to explore local diners, food trucks, and bakeries for authentic flavors! Enjoy your culinary adventure in San Antonio!
Day Trips from San Antonio*
- Austin– 1 hr 20 min. drive – A major US city with a vibrant nightlife and active outdoor culture. Visit the Texas Capitol, Bullock Texas State History Museum, or the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, and spend the sunset watching the world’s largest urban bat colony leave Congress Avenue Bridge to hunt.
- Fredericksburg– 1 hr 15 min. drive – Known for its surrounding wineries and historic German heritage. The National Museum of the Pacific War is located in the walkable downtown, along with shops and restaurants.
- Houston– 3 hr drive – The fourth largest city in the US, you can find everything to do here; it’s worth more than a day trip.
- New Braunfels – 35 min. drive – New Braunfels is known for its unique blend of German heritage, the world-famous Schlitterbahn Waterpark, Gruene Hall (the oldest dance hall in Texas), and outdoor recreation on the Comal and Guadalupe Rivers.
- Johnson City – 1 hr 10 min. drive – The town is named after the ancestors of the 36th President of the US, Lyndon Baines Johnson, and is home to the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, along with art galleries and museums. Just outside of the city is one of the largest parks in Central Texas—Pedernales Falls State Park.
- Bourne – 35 min. drive – Enchanted Springs Ranch: This venue in Bourne offers activities like wagon rides, trick roping shows, line dancing lessons, and even pistol shooting with blanks.
- Corpus Christi – 2 hr drive – See the Texas Gulf Coast, the Texas State Aquarium, and the USS Lexington.
*All drive times listed are approximate, and from downtown San Antonio without traffic.