San Antonio Attractions
Remember the Alamo—and all the things to do in San Antonio—on your next visit.
Remember the Alamo—and all the things to do in San Antonio—on your next visit. The second-largest city in Texas is a true reflection of the diverse cultures and colorful history that have influenced the Lone Star State over the past three centuries. From Mexican fiestas to the remnants of a once-large German community, and from ancient adobe facades to gleaming new skyscrapers, San Antonio offers up a blend of experiences and adventures that are just right for visitors of all ages and interests.
River Walk
Below street level, where the San Antonio River winds through town, you’ll discover a pedestrian oasis full of sounds, sights and delicious scents.
The River Walk was developed in the 1940s to help tame a wild river that often flooded the city. Soon, hotels and points of interest joined the waterfront promenade by connectors—creating a five-mile stretch of urban cool that features top restaurants, shopping and entertainment. Today, you can stroll along the river to access many top San Antonio attractions, like the Arneson River Theatre, La Villita Historic Arts Village, and HemisFair Park. The waterway is also a key parade route for springtime and holiday festivals.
Alamo Mission
Near the horseshoe loop of the River Walk sits the most famous building in Texas: The Alamo. Built as part of a Spanish mission in 1718, this tiny church and compound became a fortress in the early 1800s. In 1836, Mexican troops stormed the compound and wiped out all 200 Texian Army men inside. The merciless defeat inspired the motto, “Remember the Alamo,” and fresh recruits from throughout the U.S. enthusiastically joined Texas’ battle for independence—which was achieved the very next month.
Today, Alamo National Monument is part of the UNESCO San Antonio Missions World Heritage Site. Admission is free.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
Kid-friendly, but with adult-sized thrill rides, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is simply all-day fun. Set in a former quarry, much of the park’s attractions are hidden behind a rock wall, while the iconic Scream rollercoaster can be seen from miles away. Adjacent to the main park is White Water Bay, a giant waterpark, and one ticket gets you in to both. Remember to buy a FLASH pass in advance to skip the ticket lines.
Tower of the Americas
San Antonio attractions reach even greater heights at Tower of the Americas. Built as the theme structure for the 1968 World’s Fair, also known as “HemisFair ’68,” the tower rises 750 feet above the city. Take panoramic photos from the Observation Deck, or take in the views from the revolving restaurant on top. You can also take the stairs—952 of them—and try to break the decades-old record of 5 minutes, 18 seconds.
Natural Bridge Caverns
From cavers to kids to the curious, there’s something for everyone at Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest commercial caves in Texas. Located just 17 miles northeast of San Antonio, it’s a great destination on a hot, sticky summer day—since the caves keep a comfortable 70 degrees year-round. Choose from a range of tours, including “Adventure Tours” that will have you climbing, crawling and squeezing through undeveloped caverns. Plan to stay until dusk, and then head over to Bracken Cave to watch millions of winged mammals emerge from their daytime perches, blackening the sky before nighttime sets in. The adventures continue above ground, where ziplines, mazes and obstacle courses will challenge kids and grownups alike. Nearby, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a fascinating “drive-through” safari featuring more than 50 free-roaming species.
San Antonio Botanical Gardens
Offering a pleasant, plant-based escape from the metal-and-glass jungle of Texas’ second-largest city, the San Antonio Botanical Gardens fit perfectly into everyone’s travel itinerary. Opened in 1980, it features a variety of individually designed gardens including a children’s garden, sensory garden, rose garden, and butterfly garden. Free, guided bird-watching walks are offered every third Sunday.
Seaworld
Just 15 minutes northwest of town is another top San Antonio attraction: Sea World. It’s the largest of the three parks in the SeaWorld chain—and the world’s largest marine-life theme park. Here, you’ll enjoy animal acts and live entertainment as you go from exhibit to aquarium and back again. Also competing for your attention are the park’s thrill rides. Don’t miss the Steel Eel, called a “hypercoaster” in the rollercoaster business. There’s enough toddler, kid, tween and adult fun here for almost any family. Make sure to grab an “All-Day Dining Deal” so meals are covered during your stay.
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