Experience San Antonio: A Comprehensive Guide to the City's Must-See Attractions and Hidden Gems
Curated By
Gillian Spatz
Curator’s statement
San Antonio, Texas, is a city where rich history and modern charm seamlessly blend, offering a unique travel experience. Its iconic landmarks like the Alamo and the vibrant River Walk provide a glimpse into the past while celebrating the city's contemporary spirit. The diverse cultural influences, from Tex-Mex culinary delights to lively festivals, make San Antonio a must-visit destination for those seeking a blend of historical depth, culinary excellence and warm, welcoming atmosphere.
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Things to do in San Antonio
San Antonio, known for its rich history and vibrant culture, offers a plethora of activities that cater to every interest. Whether you're a history buff, an outdoor enthusiast, or a family looking for fun, San Antonio's diverse attractions ensure an unforgettable experience.
Pearl District
A cultural hotspot with great food, music, architecture and boutique stores.
The River Walk
A must-visit cultural wonderland featuring restaurants, shops, museums and romantic river taxis.
San Antonio Museum of Art
Boasts one of the largest art collections in the south, spanning 5,000 years of history.
Hopscotch
An immersive art experience with optical illusions, neon lights and a full-service bar.
Natural Bridge Caverns
The largest known commercial caverns in Texas, offering tours and surface attractions.
San Antonio Botanical Garden
A 38-acre garden with exotic plants and a seasonal display of flora.
El Mercado
The largest Mexican market in the U.S., featuring authentic crafts and delicious Mexican pastries.
McNay Art Museum
Texas' first modern art museum, featuring a collection of over 22,000 pieces of art.
Fiesta
An annual festival with over 50 events celebrating local history and culture.
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
A UNESCO World Heritage Site preserving four Spanish frontier missions.
Japanese Tea Garden
A tranquil space with floral displays, waterfalls and koi ponds.
San Pedro Springs Park
The second oldest park in the U.S., offering one of the nation's best swimming spots.
The DoSeum
An innovative children's museum with hands-on exhibits teaching science, art, sound and more.
The Alamo
A historic Spanish mission and fortress compound famous as the site of the Battle of the Alamo in 1836.
SeaWorld San Antonio
A marine mammal park, oceanarium, and animal theme park offering rides, shows and animal experiences.
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
An amusement park known for its thrilling roller coasters and entertainment, located in San Antonio.
Ranger Creek Brewing and Distillery
Offers tours with tastings of whiskey and beer.
San Antonio's array of activities provides a perfect blend of historical exploration, outdoor adventure and cultural immersion. From its historic landmarks to its scenic natural beauty, the city offers experiences that resonate with visitors of all ages. As you plan your trip, remember that the true essence of San Antonio lies in its ability to offer memorable moments and unique experiences that stay with you long after you've left.
Places to eat & drink in San Antonio
From traditional Tex-Mex to innovative contemporary cuisine, each restaurant on our list promises a unique gastronomic journey through the vibrant culinary landscape of San Antonio.
Cured
A New American, meat-forward restaurant known for its charcuterie, located in the historic Pearl district. It features a rustic ambiance and a menu full of rich and salty flavors.
Carnita’s Lonja
Famous for its carnitas tacos, this family-owned business offers a simple yet delicious menu.
Maverick Texas Brasserie
A French American restaurant perfect for date nights, offering a sophisticated menu and a chic/industrial atmosphere.
Curry Boys
Known for its unique fusion of smoked barbecue and southeast Asian curry, this restaurant is a must-try for its distinct flavors.
Bar Loretta
A New American restaurant, ideal for date nights or enjoying craft cocktails at the bar, with a remarkable food menu and a robust cocktail list.
2M Smokehouse
A barbecue restaurant featured in Texas Monthly's “Top 50 Texas BBQ Joints”, famous for its brisket, pork ribs and housemade sausage.
NONNA Osteria
An Italian restaurant offering a beautiful ambiance and elevated hand-crafted northern Italian cuisine.
Brasserie Mon Chou Chou
Specializes in French comfort food, ideal for upscale breakfast, lunch and dinner, located in the Pearl district.
Jerk Shack
A Caribbean fast-casual restaurant known for its jerk chicken and Caribbean delights like caramelized plantains and masala fries.
Dough Pizzeria Napoletana
Famous for its authentic Neapolitan pizza, ideal for a kid-friendly and casual meal.
La Panaderia
A famous bakery known for its handmade bread and pan dulce.
Whether you're a local foodie or a traveler seeking culinary delights, these restaurants are must-visit destinations that will leave your palate richly satisfied.
Travel Advisor
Gillian Spatz
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This guide is part of our ongoing series on travel to Texas.