Top 5 Things to Do in San Antonio

San Antonio is located in the southern-central part of Texas, surrounded by a wealth of history and culture. Home to the Alamo, River Walk, the San Antonio Spurs, and much more, just like everything else in Texas this is one big city with big sights and big sounds for visitors and locals alike. Over 1.4 million people call San Antonio home, and with bustling economy its also become a popular tourist destination. With so much to do and see, it’s easy to miss out on some of the most exciting attractions. To get you started, take a look our list for the Top 5 Things to Do in San Antonio.

1. River Walk (Paseo del rio)

Stretching along the banks of the San Antonio River, the River Walk is one of the most infamous attractions and a must-see stop for first time visitors. The River Walk is considered to be a public park, which is also dog-friendly, and requires no cost of admission to the public. Lined with shops, restaurants, museums, theaters, and countless nightlife and entertainment venues, there’s something for everyone at the River Walk. Depending on what time of year you’re visiting, you may find this scenic attraction covered in Christmas lights or sporting red-white-and-blue to celebrate Independence Day. For those looking to spend their wedding day along the banks of the river, Marriage Island, located on the River Walk near the Contessa Hotel, can serve as the ideal back drop for your special day. What’s the best way to take in the sights at River Walk? Hop aboard a river taxi and relax as you cruise through this urban waterway.

For more information, visit The San Antonio River Walk.

2. The Alamo

We’ve all heard the saying, “Remember the Alamo.” What was first called Mission San Antonio de Valero in 1718 is known to hold many stories of salvation, war and independence. Today, the Alamo is managed by the Texas General Land Office and is a popular tourist attraction for the area. Admission is free to enter the grounds and the Alamo Church, and there are also a variety of activities available for visitors at no additional cost. Of course, this historic sight is best known for its role in the 1836 Battle of the Alamo, but there’s plenty more to learn. The history of the Alamo is extensive, and the best way to experience in all its glory is to see it for yourself.

To plan your visit, check out The Alamo.

3. HemisFair Park

Almost 50 years ago, San Antonio’s HemisFair Park became the home of the 1968 World’s Fair with the theme “Confluence of Civilizations in America.” The World Fair was also a join celebration of the 250th Anniversary of the founding of San Antonio in 1718. Running from April to October, the World’s Fair saw more than 6 million visitors from over 30 different countries. Today, the 96.2 acre park is run by a nonprofit local government corporation called the HemisFair Park Area Redevelopment Corporation (HPARC), which seeks to revitalize the historic sight. The River Walk was connected to the lagoon of the HemisFair in 2001 and also links to the Convention Center. The park is open seven days a week from 7am to 12pm. A variety of events are held in the Park each month, and it’s become well-known for being a central meeting place for area locals.

To learn more, visit HemisFair.

4. Mission Kayak

Looking for a little action and adventure? Head over to the San Antonio Missions Natural Park to begin your trip down the river. Combining history and nature, Mission Kayak offers kayak rentals, kayak classes, private events and much more to tailor your kayaking experience to your personal needs. Featured in Southern Living, TexasMonthly, and on ABC’s The Bachelorette, Mission Kayaks is your go-to stop for your kayaking excursion in San Antonio. For those who have never kayaked before, Mission Kayak states that kaying is “easier than riding a bike” and that “95% of our customers are first time kayakers.”

Book your trip today at Mission Kayak.

5. San Antonio Spurs

No trip to San Antonio is complete without attending the city’s most beloved team’s home basketball game. With five NBA championships under their belt, the San Antonio Spurs always put on a show for the local crowd at AT&T Center. Opened in 2002, the AT&T Center is also home to San Antonio Rampage, an American League Hockey Team, the WMBA’s San Antonio Stars, and the annual San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. Throughout the year there’s also a variety of music artists and live performers who make a stop at AT&T on their tours. The arena has seen performances by “Aerosmith, Justin Bieber, Neil Diamond, Bon Jovi, Cirque du Soleil, The Eagles, Vicente Fernandez, Lady Gaga, Billy Joel & Elton John, Madonna, Metallica, Red Hot Chili Peppers, Rihanna, The Rolling Stones, Shakira, Taylor Swift, Trans-Siberian Orchestra and WWE.”

To get tickets to a game or to check the calendar for all events, visit the AT&T Center.

Regardless of the month or the time of the year, San Antonio is a great place to visit during winter, spring, summer, and fall. While we’ve just touched on five of top things to do in the city, there’s plenty more to explore. Whether you’re just visiting for a weekend, stopping by on business, here for a full weeks on vacation, or moving into the area full time, you’ll feel at home in San Antonio. Start planning your trip to San Antonio today.