10 Fun Things To Do Near San Antonio, Texas (Bexar County)
San Antonio, Texas is one of those cities that gets under your skin in the best possible way. It’s full of history, flavor, and that laid‑back Texas charm. Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a family trip, or a solo escape, there are plenty of
fun things to do in San Antonio that go way beyond the basics.
Below are 10 easy-to-love activities in and around San Antonio (Bexar County) that work for first-time visitors and returning fans alike.
1. Stroll, Dine, and Cruise the Famous San Antonio River Walk
If you only do one thing in San Antonio, make it the
San Antonio River Walk. This winding path sits one level below street traffic and follows the San Antonio River right through downtown.
You can:
- Walk for miles along shaded paths
- Grab tacos, BBQ, or Tex-Mex at riverside restaurants
- Hop on a narrated river barge tour
- Enjoy live music in the evenings at many bars and patios
In the evening, the string lights reflecting on the water make it feel almost magical. If you’re visiting during the holidays, the River Walk is covered in lights from late November through early January, and it’s worth bundling up to see.
2. Step Back in Time at The Alamo
The
Alamo is the most famous historic site in San Antonio—and honestly, in all of Texas. Located in downtown Bexar County, this former Spanish mission became a key battleground in the Texas Revolution in 1836.
When you visit:
- Walk through the historic church and courtyard
- See artifacts from the Battle of the Alamo
- Read stories of the people who fought and lived there
- Join a guided tour if you want deeper history
The grounds aren’t huge, but the history feels big. It’s also very easy to combine the Alamo with a River Walk visit, since they’re just a short walk apart.
3. Visit the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Want more history without the crowds? Head a few miles south of downtown to the
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site includes four Spanish colonial missions:
- Mission Concepción
- Mission San José
- Mission San Juan
- Mission Espada
Each mission has its own church, grounds, and stories. Mission San José is often called the “Queen of the Missions” because of its size and stunning stonework.
You can:
- Drive between the missions
- Rent a bike and ride the Mission Reach trail along the river
- Join ranger-led tours for free (check schedules in advance)
If you love photography, go in the early morning or late afternoon. The light on the old stone buildings is beautiful.
4. Ride Coasters and See Animals at Six Flags Fiesta Texas
For thrill seekers,
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is one of the top things to do in San Antonio. Located in northwest Bexar County, this theme park packs in:
- Roller coasters that twist, drop, and launch
- Family rides and kiddie rides
- Live shows and seasonal events (like Fright Fest and Holiday in the Park)
- A water park area that’s a lifesaver in the Texas heat
Tip: Summer days get hot—like over 95°F hot—so consider arriving early, taking a mid-day break, or going later in the day when the sun eases up.
5. Explore SeaWorld San Antonio and Aquatica
On the city’s west side,
SeaWorld San Antonio combines marine life shows, rides, and a full water park called Aquatica. It’s a popular spot for families and anyone who loves animals and water slides.
You can:
- Watch dolphin and sea lion presentations
- Ride coasters like The Great White or Texas Stingray
- Cool off in wave pools and lazy rivers
If you’re visiting in the summer, you could easily spend a full day (or even two) here. Pack sunscreen and a hat—the Texas sun is no joke.
6. Wander the Historic Pearl District
Just a couple of miles north of downtown, the
Pearl District is one of San Antonio’s coolest neighborhoods. It used to be a brewery. Today, it’s a mix of restaurants, shops, a hotel, and public spaces along the river.
Highlights include:
- Weekend farmers market with local produce and baked goods
- Trendy restaurants offering everything from ramen to BBQ
- Outdoor seating where you can people-watch for hours
- Easy access to the northern stretch of the River Walk
This is a great place to grab brunch, wander around with a coffee, and just soak up the local vibe. If you like trying local food instead of chain restaurants, start here.
7. Visit the San Antonio Museum of Art and the McNay Art Museum
If you enjoy art or just want a quiet break from the sun, San Antonio has two standout museums in Bexar County.
San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA):
- Located in a former brewery building along the river
- Features ancient Greek, Roman, Egyptian pieces, plus modern art
- Easy to reach from downtown by car or even on foot from the northern River Walk
McNay Art Museum:
- Located in a beautiful Spanish-style mansion in a residential area
- Focuses more on modern and contemporary art
- Has a peaceful garden that feels miles away from the city noise
Even if you’re not a “museum person,” walking through the McNay’s grounds can feel like a little retreat.
8. Get a View (and a Meal) at the Tower of the Americas
Want to see all of downtown San Antonio at once? Head to the
Tower of the Americas in Hemisfair Park. This 750-foot tower has:
- An observation deck with 360-degree city views
- A revolving restaurant that slowly turns while you eat
- A 4D theater ride that’s fun for kids and adults
Going near sunset is especially nice. You can watch the city light up and then walk over to the River Walk afterward. It’s also a good choice if you’re short on time but still want a “wow” moment.
9. Spend a Day at San Antonio Zoo and Brackenridge Park
Families especially love
Brackenridge Park, just north of downtown. This large green space is home to:
- San Antonio Zoo – home to hundreds of species
- Paved trails along the San Antonio River
- Picnic areas and playgrounds
- The historic Japanese Tea Garden nearby
The
Japanese Tea Garden is one of the city’s hidden gems. It has stone bridges, koi ponds, and lush landscaping. Best of all, it’s free to visit.
If you’re traveling with kids, you could easily fill a full day between the zoo, the garden, and the park. Bring snacks and water, and wear comfy shoes.
10. Catch a Spurs Game or a Big Event at the Frost Bank Center
Sports fan? In San Antonio, it’s all about the
San Antonio Spurs. Their home arena, the
Frost Bank Center (formerly AT&T Center), sits on the east side of Bexar County.
You can:
- Cheer on the Spurs during NBA season
- Catch concerts and big touring shows throughout the year
- Enjoy classic arena snacks—nachos, hot dogs, and cold drinks
Even if you’re not a huge basketball fan, the energy at a Spurs game is contagious. Locals take their team seriously, and it’s a fun way to feel the city’s spirit.
Bonus: Simple Tips for Visiting San Antonio
To make the most of your trip:
- Stay hydrated: Summers get hot and humid, with temps often over 90°F.
- Use public parking wisely: Downtown garages are usually cheaper than surface lots right on the River Walk.
- Walk when you can: Many top things to do in San Antonio—like the River Walk, the Alamo, and Tower of the Americas—are close together.
- Plan ahead for weekends: Popular spots like the Pearl and SeaWorld get crowded on Saturdays and holidays.
What Will You Do First in San Antonio?
San Antonio is one of those cities that manages to feel both historic and fresh. You can spend the morning standing in a 300-year-old mission, then ride roller coasters in the afternoon and finish the day with a riverside dinner under the stars.
Which of these
10 things to do near San Antonio are you adding to your list?
- Planning a romantic weekend on the River Walk?
- Bringing the kids to SeaWorld or the zoo?
- Hunting for great food at the Pearl District?
Share your plans or your favorite San Antonio memories in the comments—I’d love to hear what you’re most excited about.
And if you found this guide helpful, please
share it with a friend or on social media to help others plan their own San Antonio adventure!
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