Looking for some unique things to do in San Antonio? Whether you’re moving to San Antonio, visiting for a weekend, or you’re a local ready to explore your hometown in a new way, there are plenty of things to see. In this guide, we’ll highlight the top ten things you can do in San Antonio, from historical attractions to some local, off-the-beaten-path experiences you’re sure to enjoy.
Table of Contents
Historical Attractions
San Antonio’s history is woven into the fabric of the city, making it a must-see for history buffs. Exploring its historical attractions and cultural influences can give you a real sense of how the city grew from a frontier settlement into one of Texas’s most distinctive and memorable cultural hubs.
Alamo Cenotaph
The Alamo Cenotaph is the memorial located in front of the Alamo. It is an empty tomb commemorating the lives lost defending the Alamo rather than surrendering it, established by the Texas Centennial Commission and designed by sculptor Pompeo Coppini. The cenotaph, or “empty tomb,” features carvings of Alamo defenders including William B. Travis, Jim Bowie, David Crockett, and James Bonham, as well as the names of many others etched into the base of granite.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park offers a fascinating glimpse into the city’s colonial past. It preserves some of the original Spanish frontier missions and showcases the unique blend of Indigenous and Spanish cultures that shaped early Texas. The park is on 475 acres of land with almost a hundred separate structures, including old acequias and other irrigation resources.
La Villita Historic Arts Village
Once a humble settlement dating back to the 18th century, La Villita is now a local arts hotspot. You can browse hand-made goods and appreciate the adobe structures and limestone buildings. Keep an eye on La Villita’s events calendar to see what’s in store. They host everything from art festivals to various cultural celebrations.
Outdoor Activities
If you can handle the heat, San Antonio’s natural beauty and year-round sunshine make it an awesome city to explore! Do yourself a favor and remember the sunblock, but here are some unique things you can do outside in San Antonio, whether you’re looking for somewhere beautiful and green to hunker down for the day or a more hands-on adventure.
The Japanese Tea Garden
San Antonio’s Japanese Tea Garden is a peaceful oasis featuring green gardens and elegant stone bridges overlooking koi ponds. It’s a beautiful venue for weddings, parties, and corporate events. Not only that, it hosts frequent events encouraging mindfulness and relaxation.
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Natural Bridge Caverns
The Natural Bridge Caverns are expansive underground limestone caves with stunning rock formations. Visitors can book guided tours that provide fascinating insights into the geology and history of the caverns, while above ground, there are walking trails, rope courses, and other family-friendly adventure activities.
GO RIO River Cruises
Believe it or not, you can book a cruise in the landlocked San Antonio! These river cruises are slow, leisurely glides down San Antonio’s waterways, overlooking the city’s architecture. Whether you’re looking for a romantic evening cruise, a daytime sightseeing tour, or a festive themed experience, you’re likely to find something you can enjoy with GO RIO.
The River Walk
No visit to San Antonio is complete without exploring the River Walk, the city’s most iconic attraction. This is a pedestrian street along the river, lined with shops and restaurants. You’ll find a mix of everything that makes the city beautiful—good food, a lively, vibrant culture, lovely architecture that’s stood the test of time, and the view of the river, of course.
Local Cuisine
San Antonio’s culinary scene is a flavorful reflection of its rich cultural heritage, influenced by both Mexican and Southern traditions. Whether you’re looking for hearty comfort foods or bold flavors, you won’t leave disappointed or with an empty stomach.
The Historic Market Square
The Historic Market Square is a bustling marketplace with the most authentic Mexican food you’ll find in Texas. You can appreciate the vibrant stalls, live music, and unique flavors of old Mexico.
“I’m a gastroenterologist in Houston, so I make the San Antonio drive pretty often—both for medical conferences and honestly just to get away with my family on weekends. While everyone talks about the River Walk and the Alamo, the real number one thing is hitting up the Historic Market Square (El Mercado) for authentic Mexican food and culture. My wife and I go specifically for Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia—it’s open 24/7, and after 25 years of irregular hospital schedules, I appreciate a place that serves incredible chilaquiles at 2 AM. The mariachi bands, the pan dulce bakery section, and the handmade tamales make it feel like you’ve crossed into another world. As someone who loves exploring Houston’s culinary scene, San Antonio’s Market Square is the most concentrated, authentic food experience you’ll find in Texas.”
Dr. Bharat Pothuri, Gastroenterologist, GASTRO DOXS
Los Barrios
Styled as a San Antonio staple, Los Barrios has been serving up authentic, home-style Mexican and Tex-Mex dishes since 1979. You’ll be treated to a lovely patio experience and generous portion sizes. Plus, live music on Friday and Saturday nights!
The Guenther House
Housed in a beautifully preserved 19th-century mill, this charming spot offers breakfast, brunch, and baked goods in a cozy historical setting. It operates on a first-come, first-served basis, so show up early, and don’t worry about making a reservation. If you can’t make it, though, you can browse the Guenther House’s recipes to try at home.
Conclusion
For such a famous city, San Antonio’s full of surprises! It doesn’t matter if it’s your hometown or if this is your first time visiting, there are so many unique things you can do in San Antonio! Its rich history and culture are woven seamlessly into every corner of the city, from the food to its outdoor adventures. All you need to do is go out and appreciate the new experiences and flavors that are waiting for you.
FAQs
Some of the best things to appreciate visually in San Antonio include the historic missions, the River Walk (whether you want to walk the length of it or view it from a GO RIO cruise), La Villita Historic Arts Village, and the Japanese Tea Garden. These showcase the city’s history, culture, and natural beauty.
Absolutely! The Natural Bridge Caverns and river cruises both offer great options for kids. You can also check out the San Antonio Zoo.
J. Dailey has an English degree with a focus in technical writing. When not busy blogging, find J. Dailey hiking, playing tabletop games, or spending time with cats.
