Are you planning a trip to San Antonio, or are you new in town? If so, lucky you! This is a one-of-a-kind city that offers you the chance to enjoy a diverse culture, history, nature, and adventure. The things to do in San Antonio are endless.
Why San Antonio?
San Antonio, which is located in the southern part of Texas, is the second most populous city in the state. It's a unique city that celebrates its history and the cultures of its diverse population. It represents a melting pot of Texas tradition, Mexican culture, and American pastimes. Whether you are a foodie, a sports nut, a thrill-seeker, a nature lover, a history buff, or an art connoisseur, there is plenty for you in San Antonio.
More Than the Alamo
When most people hear “San Antonio,” they think “the Alamo.” While the Alamo is certainly worth experiencing, you are missing out if you think that’s all there is to this dynamic city. Not only are there historical sites, but also natural wonders, mouth-watering food, and even sporting events. Once you dig in, it seems as though the number and variety of things to do is endless. However, don’t get overwhelmed by all the ways you can spend time exploring this city!
The 10 Best Ways to Experience The Things To Do In San Antonio
Here are the 10 things you must do to discover the best San Antonio has to offer.
Visit the Alamo
The Alamo may be historical sites and for a good reason. It was originally a Spanish mission, which was later occupied by Texas volunteer soldiers in 1835 during their fight for independence from Mexico. The Mexican army marched to San Antonio to quell the Texan rebellion. And they began a siege of the Alamo. The Texan force held out for thirteen days before succumbing to the much larger Mexican army. The Alamo is now a symbol for resistance.
Today, the Alamo grounds contain several buildings. Including the Long Barrack Museum, gardens and an amphitheater. Participate in a guided tour or hear a history talk to learn the story of the Alamo. Consider visiting when the Alamo first opens in the morning. When crowds tend to be thinnest but be sure to return in the evening to behold the sight of the Alamo illuminated by lights.
Take a Stroll Along the River Walk and Visit La Villita
No trip to San Antonio is complete without some quality time on the River Walk. It is the place for dining, entertainment, culture, and nature. The River Walk runs one story below street-level, along the San Antonio River. True to its name, it's only accessible by pedestrians.
There are many excellent places to eat and drink, ranging from fine dining to more casual, even pet-friendly, restaurants. Hop on a boat tour to hear about the historic sites right on the river. Be sure to visit La Villita, a district that consists of one square block on the south side of the River Walk. It was one of the first neighborhoods in San Antonio, and it includes simple adobe buildings common during the time it was founded. You’ll also find art galleries and artisan shops selling good such as handmade jewelry, leather goods, and soap.
Tour the King William Historic District
Revisiting history is one of the best things to do in San Antonio. A great place to do that is the historical sites, a neighborhood consisting of 25 blocks in the southern part of downtown San Antonio. Originally settled by wealthy German merchants in the late 1800s, this district was San Antonio’s first suburb. It is known for its buildings’ stunning architecture. Historic mansions have been preserved, and the King William Historic District Association maintains detailed records of the homes’ histories.
National Register of Historic Places
The King William Historic District is listed on the National Register of Historic Places. Which means that the United States federal government has considered its historic significance and determined that it should be preserved. The District is committed to the arts. It's home to several art centers, including the San Antonio Art League. Which displays local artists’ work in a historic home. Additionally, every first Friday of the month, the King William District hosts an art walk, during which local artists showcase their work at pop-up exhibits.
Enjoy the Serenity of the Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden has a long history in San Antonio. In 1926, Kimi Eizo Jingu. A local artist of Japanese descent opened the Bamboo Room at this site. The Jingu family continued to operate the business until World War II when evicted. In 1984, the site was rededicated as the Japanese Tea Garden at a ceremony attended by Jingu’s children. The Tea Garden is now part of Brackenridge Park, about three miles from downtown. At the entrance of the garden, you’ll find a replica Torii gate; a traditional Japanese gate traditionally used to mark the entrance of a Shinto shrine. Mexican-born artist Dionicio Rodriguez created this replica using concrete. Instead of wood as is used in a traditional Torii gate. Once inside the Tea Garden, you can enjoy ponds, waterfalls, koi, and flora. The garden is open all year, and there is no admission fee.
Here's A Video Of The Japanese Tea Garden in San Antonio, Texas
Marvel at Geological Wonders at the Natural Bridge Caverns
In 1960, four college students discovered these underground limestone caverns, which should definitely be on your list of things to do in San Antonio. The caverns are located about 30 miles northeast of downtown and are on the National Register of Historic Places. Choose between four different tours led by knowledgeable tour guides who can identify the geological wonders you’ll see and explain how they were formed. Wear comfortable, closed-toe shoes and be prepared to take tons of pictures! If you are feeling adventurous, you can also do some zip-lining on the grounds. After exploring the caverns, stop by the Big Daddy’s Sweets, Treats, and Brew.
Here's A Video About The SAN ANTONIO BY RV - Market Square & Natural Bridge Caverns
Visit the San Antonio Missions Historical Park
There aren’t many places where you can learn some history and enjoy the outdoors. The San Antonio Missions Historical Park is one of them. There are four Spanish missions to visit: Mission Concepcion, Mission San Juan, Mission San Jose, and Mission Espada. Ten miles of trails connect the missions, and the trail system even extends along the San Antonio River all the way to the Alamo. You can either walk or bike on the trails. The San Antonio Missions are a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which means that the United Nations Educational, Scientific, and Cultural Organization has recognized their cultural and historical significance. There are only twenty-three such sites in all of the United States.
Here's A Video On San Antonio Missions, San Antonio, TX - The Daytripper
Enjoy Authentic Mexican and Tex-Mex Dishes
Less than 200 miles from the Mexican border, San Antonio is home to dozens of restaurants serving delicious, authentic Mexican cuisine. You can also taste the best of Tex-Mex food, which is known for using beef, cheddar cheese, flour tortillas, black beans, and cumin. In San Antonio, you also have the opportunity to branch out from what you typically think of as Mexican food. Restaurants here offer unique dishes such as breakfast tacos and queso (also known as “chili con queso”), a dip made of melted cheese and chili peppers.
Here's A Video on How the World's Most Authentic Tex-Mex is Made — Cooking in America
Sample San Antonio’s Barbeque
Texas barbeque generally involves beef, and brisket, in particular, is very popular. In San Antonio, two styles of regional Texas barbeque are most prevalent: Central Texas style, which is known for its use of mesquite, oak, and/or pecan wood, and South Texas style, which is all about the sauce! You can also try some barbacoa, a Mexican-influenced style of barbeque, which is prepared by digging a hole in the ground and covering it with maguey (a type of agave) leaves while the meat cooks.
Here's A Video on Best Barbecue Restaurants in San Antonio Texas
Seek Thrills at Six Flags Fiesta Texas
The whole family can enjoy this amusement park. There are, of course, thrill rides, like the new historical sites. The park also has many family rides, as well as water attractions ranging from a calm lagoon to the Bahama Blaster, which Six Flags have dubbed “the world’s steepest water slide.” There’s plenty to do at this park, even if you don’t enjoy the rides. You can try your hand at traditional carnival games at the midway, watch a live musical performance, or indulge in some funnel cake or bacon-cheese fries.
Here's A Video On Six Flags Fiesta Texas New For 2019 The Joker Wild Card Spinning Pendulum Ride
Attend a San Antonio Spurs Game
The Spurs are San Antonio’s professional basketball team. They are five-time NBA (National Basketball Association) champions and have earned a spot in the playoffs every season since 1997. The Spurs are known for their well-rounded team efforts, and they are great fun to watch! The Spurs play at AT&T Center, about four miles from downtown. The NBA season typically begins in October and ends in April, when playoffs begin. Playoffs continue until the championship series in June.
Here's A Video On San Antonio Spurs Tribute - The Beautiful Game (ORIGINAL)
Conclusion On The Things To Do In San Antonio
There are many exciting things to do in San Antonio and endless ways to immerse yourself in its culture and history. Hopefully, you can use this list to find the best ways to experience this dynamic city.
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