- Top Attractions
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Why Visit San Antonio
Founded in 1718, San Antonio's identity is rooted in its Spanish colonial missions. Beyond the Alamo, four others comprise Texas' only UNESCO World Heritage Site. This living history defines our Mission Revival architecture, a core part of visiting San Antonio.
The famed River Walk spans 15 miles, including the quieter Museum and Mission Reaches ideal for cycling or a peaceful stroll. Nearby, the Texas Hill Country offers scenic drives. From March to October, witness millions of bats emerge from under the I-35 bridge.
As a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, our food scene is world-class. Tex-Mex is our soul food, with the puffy taco as a local specialty you must try. The Pearl district offers upscale dining from Culinary Institute of America graduates.
- San AntonioUnited States
- San AntonioUnited States
- San AntonioUnited States
- San AntonioUnited States
Quick Travel Essentials
- Mar-Maypleasant, blooming flowers
- Jun-Aughot, peak tourist season
- Sep-Novmild, fewer crowds
- Dec-Febcool, occasional rain
- #ComfortableShoes
- #Sunscreen
- #WaterBottle
- #LightJacket
- #Camera
- 3-4 days for highlights
- 5-6 days for side trips or extended stay
- USD ($)
- English
- English is an official language here
- #TheAlamo
- #SanAntonioRiverWalk
- #SanAntonioMissionNationalHistoricalPark
- #MarketSquare
- #TowerLifeBuilding
- #JapaneseTeaGarden
- Explore the River Walk
- Visit the Alamo
- Sample Tex-Mex cuisine
- Stroll through Market Square
- Enjoy live music at The Bonham Exchange
Recommended Hotels in San Antonio by Experience
Things to do in San Antonio
Discover
Exploring San Antonio reveals iconic history and scenic views. Discover The Alamo and the other Spanish missions, stroll the famous River Walk, visit the McNay Art Museum, and get panoramic cityscapes from the 750-foot Tower of the Americas.
Experience
Experience the city's culture with a boat tour on the River Walk or by visiting the historic Market Square. Enjoy annual events like Fiesta San Antonio, taste authentic Tex-Mex on a culinary tour, and catch a show at the Majestic Theatre.
The Alamo
Historic Spanish mission, site of the 1836 battle.
San Antonio River Walk
Network of walkways along the San Antonio River's banks.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Four preserved 18th-century frontier missions.
Natural Bridge Caverns
The largest known commercial caverns in Texas state.
Market Square (El Mercado)
The largest Mexican market in the United States.
Japanese Tea Garden
Lush garden with stone archways, waterfalls, and koi ponds.
Tower of the Americas
750-foot tower with an observation deck for city views.
Before You Arrive
Getting There
Plan a trip to San Antonio by flying into San Antonio International Airport (SAT). A VIA bus gets from the San Antonio airport to city center in ~30 min for under $2. Taxis and a San Antonio shuttle bus are also available. Amtrak offers a train to San Antonio.
Getting Around
The downtown River Walk is highly walkable. Public transport in San Antonio includes VIA buses and the unique VIVA routes for tourists. Use the GoMobile+ app for passes. A car rental in San Antonio is best for exploring the missions or Hill Country.
Local Essentials
For first-timers, book free Alamo tickets online in advance. Driving in San Antonio can involve heavy traffic on I-35/I-10, and downtown parking is scarce. Major credit cards are widely accepted, but carry some cash for smaller markets or food trucks.
Where to Stay in San Antonio
Where to Eat and Drink
Celebrate
Explore San Antonio's Tex-Mex soul. Taste essential puffy tacos and slow-smoked brisket. Locals embrace patio dining along the Riverwalk, often with a refreshing margarita in hand. It's a city where you eat vibrant local cuisine in San Antonio.
Enjoy
For the best restaurants in San Antonio, try Boudro's on the Riverwalk for a lively vibe, reserve ahead. The Esquire Tavern has a moody, historic feel, go late. Mi Tierra Cafe & Bakery is festive and vibrant, see the bakery.
Boudro's
Texas bistro fare with famous guacamole. Lively riverside spot.
Bohanan's Prime Steak and Seafood
Upscale dining with prime cuts and classic cocktails. Elegant.
La Fonda On Main
Historic hacienda serving interior Mexican classics. Go for the patio.
Chama Gaucha Brazilian Steakhouse
All-you-can-eat grilled meats carved tableside. Upscale feel.
Events & Festivals
Celebrate
Explore San Antonio's soul through its must-see heritage events. Experience Fiesta San Antonio, an 11-day citywide party honoring the Alamo heroes. Join the city's grand Día de los Muertos celebrations and DiwaliSA, the festival of lights.
Enjoy
Discover contemporary San Antonio attractions. Enjoy the Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival's multimedia installations and live performances. Catch Tejano and conjunto acts at the Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair, the largest event of its kind.
Fiesta San Antonio
Citywide celebration in April with parades and live music.
SA Stock Show & Rodeo
February event with rodeo competitions, concerts, and carnival.
Día de los Muertos
October/November festival with altars, parades, and music.
Ford Holiday River Parade
November parade with illuminated floats on the River Walk.
Tejano Music Awards Fan Fair
Four-day free music festival in March at Hemisfair.
Luminaria Arts Festival
October festival with art installations and performances.
Diwali San Antonio
November festival of lights with Indian food, dance, fireworks.
A Really Special City
San Antonio has a special feel you don't find in many other places. The history is front and center, especially at The Alamo. It's super walkable downtown and the people are really welcoming. We found some great food away from the main tourist spots. A perfect long weekend.
Fantastic for the Whole Family
We brought the kids and had a blast. The San Antonio Zoo is excellent and located in a beautiful park. The city is easy to navigate with a family, and there's so much to do. We all really loved the boat ride on the river. Great food options for everyone.
Incredible Historical Sites
San Antonio really delivers on the history front. Beyond the famous downtown sites, the Missions National Historical Park is an absolute must-see. It's incredible to see these well-preserved structures. The city does a great job showcasing its unique heritage.
Great Neighborhoods and Food
Loved exploring the different neighborhoods. The Pearl District was fantastic for a day of walking, shopping, and eating. The food scene is so good; had some amazing puffy tacos. It's a very pleasant city with a lot of local character and things to do.
Beautiful Evenings
The city totally transforms at night. The River Walk is beautiful with all the lights, and so many good restaurants and bars are right there. It was lively but not overwhelming. A great place to stroll in the evening and find a nice spot for dinner.
So Much to See and Do
What a cool city with so much to see. Spent a whole afternoon at Market Square, it felt like being in another country. So many interesting shops and food stalls. The city's cultural offerings are really impressive. Easy to spend several days exploring.