National Historical Park Mission San Jose Mission Concepción Mission San Juan Capistrano Mission Espada Tower of the Americas San Antonio Zoo King Williams Historic District Witte Museum McNay Art Museum Buckhorn Museum Splashtown Schlitterbahn Water Park Resort Kiddie Park Ripley's Believe it or Not Market Square Main Plaza Brackenridge Park Spanish Governor's Palace The Aztec Theatre HemisFair Park Institute of Texan Cultures San Fernando Cathedral Natural Bridge Cavern

San Antonio Things to Do

San Antonio sightseeing options include places to visit such as the famed Riverwalk, Alamo, Old West museums and saloons, historic landmark missions and fun family attractions such as Six Flags Texas and Sea World San Antonio.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.

In 1718 Franciscans and Spanish representatives established the first mission. Within 13 years, five were located along the San Antonio River. The missions' purpose? To acculturate and Christianize the native population and make them Spanish citizens.
http://www.nps.gov/saan/index.htm

Mission San Jose.

While the Alamo is the most widely known and visited in San Antonio, travelers shouldn't make it their sole sightseeing stop inside San Antonio Missions National Park. The San José, established in 1720, was a model for other historic missions--and the most prosperous.
http://www.nps.gov/saan/index.htm

Mission Concepción.

Arguably the most beautiful mission church, Concepción looks much like it did in 1731 when it hosted many religious ceremonies. This San Antonio landmark, is in fact, the oldest un-restored church in America. While its exterior paintings have faded, guests can view conserved interior remnants of wall and ceiling paintings. http://www.nps.gov/saan/index.htm

Mission San Juan Capistrano.

The San Juan's fertile farmlands allowed for a self-sustainable mission, and its surplus helped supply the region with produce. The chapel and bell tower are still in use at this historic Note the typical Romanesque archway at the entrance gate and the remains of a half-completed, more elaborate church. http://www.nps.gov/saan/index.htm

Mission Espada.

This San Antonio historic mission contains the best-preserved segment of the acequia (irrigation system), which was used to bring water to the fields. Today, part of the acequia operates this San Antonio attraction and aqueduct. Also noteworthy are an unusual door and stone archway. http://www.nps.gov/saan/index.htm

Tower of the Americas.

This is a major San Antonio sightseeing spot for its panoramic view of San Antonio from 750 feet. Built for the 1968 World's Fair, this San Antonio attraction recently underwent a series of renovations to the observation deck and rotating restaurant at the top; the latter now features upscale dining and a sophisticated bar area. A glass elevator will take you up to the Flags Over Texas observatory, with heart-stopping views all the way. http://www.toweroftheamericas.com/

San Antonio Zoo.

The third largest zoo in the U.S., this San Antonio attraction is one of the oldest as well. Parents Magazine ranked this San Antonio fun attraction one of the best zoos in the nation. A collection of animals was assembled in San Pedro Park in the 1800s. Today, more than 3,500 animals reside at this San Antonio landmark, representing 600 special of animals on 56 acres. http://www.sazoo-aq.org/

King Williams Historic District.

Visit this 25-block area near downtown on the south bank of the San Antonio River. In the late 1800's the King William District was the most elegant residential area in the city. Prominent German merchants originally settled the area. It was zoned as the state's first historic district, and has once again become a fashionable San Antonio neighborhood. http://kingwilliamassociation.org/joomla/

Witte Museum.

You'll find mummies, dinosaurs, Native American pictographs, Fiesta gowns and an EcoLab with living Texas critters such as tarantulas at this family-oriented San Antonio attraction. It's a definite must on your San Antonio things to see and do list for experiencing South Texas history, natural science and technology. http://www.wittemuseum.org/

McNay Art Museum.

Established as the first museum of modern art in Texas, this San Antonio landmark museum is renowned for its collection of 19th- and 20th-century European and American art displayed in a gorgeous Mediterranean villa and courtyard. http://www.mcnayart.org/

Buckhorn Museum & The Texas Ranger Museum.

Discover more than 128 years of Texas history at this San Antonio Old West museum. Marvel at two stories of the most exotic collections you've ever seen, from a unique horn collection, to cowboy memorabilia and fish from the Seven Seas, plus a two headed calf and a lamb with eight legs. http://www.buckhornmuseum.com/

Splashtown.

With 20 landscaped acres of cool, clean water excitement, this San Antonio fun, family water-park has something fun for every age - from Kids Kove to the Siesta del Rio offering a relaxing ride down a lazy river to major water rides. StarFlight is designed for space age thrills, and there are new rides and attractions throughout the park. http://www.splashtownsa.com/

Schlitterbahn Water Park Resort.

The 65-acre Schlitterbahn Waterpark Resort has been called the #1 waterpark in the world by the Travel Channel. Plus, not only is Schlitterbahn the most popular summertime waterpark in the United States, but is also ranked as the #1 Kid-Friendly destination in the state of Texas. http://www.schlitterbahn.com/

Kiddie Park.

Generations of small children have enjoyed the rides at this small, colorful and fun amusement park near downtown San Antonio. A pint-sized Ferris wheel, roller coaster and antique merry-go-around are just some of the family-friendly rides at this fun attraction in San Antonio. http://kiddiepark.com/

Ripley's Believe it or Not Adventures.

This San Antonio attraction allows you to discover one-of-a-kind oddities, curiosities and illusions gathered from all over the world by the famed cartoonist Robert Ripley. There are more than 500 exhibits - one of the largest in the world. Louis Tussaud's Wax Works features a collection of wax figures displayed within themed sections of Hollywood, Children's Land of Make Believe, Freedom's Journey, Horror, History, Religion and much more. http://www.alamoplazaattractions.com/

Market Square.

The rich culture of San Antonio abounds throughout the plazas of Market Square with family-owned cafes, working artists and the largest Mexican market north of the Rio Grande also known as El Mercado. From early morning until late at night, this popular San Antonio sightseeing spot is alive with activity. Visitors browse through 32 shops at "El Mercado," and 80 specialty shops in the Farmers Market Plaza. http://www.sanantonio.gov/dtops/marketsquare/

Main Plaza.

San Antonio's historic Main Plaza, at the heart of the city, dates back to the early 1700s. The city lovingly restored this San Antonio historic spot in spring of 2008. This innovative public space, with huge trees, bubbling fountains, sidewalks, tables and soft landscaping, vitalizes the center core of San Antonio. http://www.sanantonio.gov/mainplaza/

Brackenridge Park.

One of the most beloved parks in San Antonio is Brackenridge Park, a 343-acre refuge in the heart of the city that offers a full day of family fun in San Antonio. This oak-studded oasis follows the northern bends of the San Antonio River, creating many alcoves perfect for picnics. There is also a stunning playground, trails for quiet walks and a dog park for four-legged entertainment. http://www.wildtexas.com/parks/bracken.php

Spanish Governor's Palace.

The National Geographic Society has labeled this San Antonio national historic landmark, "the most beautiful building in San Antonio." One of the top San Antonio attractions once housed the officials of the Spanish Province of Texas. Over the entrance is the original keystone which contains the carved, double-headed eagle of the Hapsburg coat-of-arms and the inscription, in Spanish, "finished in 1749." http://www.sanantonio.gov/dtops/SpanGovPal.asp?res=1366&ver=true

The Aztec Theatre.

This San Antonio historic theatre on the River Walk is home to the San Antonio Rose LIVE, a two-hour live classic country music show. The newly renovated San Antonio attraction now has comfortable spacious seating, a new stage, state of art sound and lighting technology that complement the live show. http://www.aztecontheriver.com/

HemisFair Park.

Built to host the 1968 World's Fair, the parks lushly landscaped areas and dramatic, cascading waterfalls offer a refreshing retreat from San Antonio streets. The park houses several San Antonio historic buildings, a playground, the Institute of Texan Cultures and the Instituto Cultural Mexicano. But one of the park's biggest (literally) highlights is the 750-foot tall Tower of the Americas which offers breathtaking views of San Antonio. http://www.sanantonio.gov/dtops/HemisFairPark.asp

Institute of Texan Cultures.

The San Antonio museum features 65,000 sq. ft. of interactive exhibits and displays that tell the stories of Texas. The mission of the Institute is to engage lifelong learners in the understanding and celebration of Texas cultural heritage. Guests are encouraged to bring their cameras, and touching is permitted. http://www.texancultures.com/

San Fernando Cathedral.

Often considered the heart and soul of San Antonio, this San Antonio landmark has played an integral part of the city's growth. Built in 1738, its history includes both religious and secular duties. Texas hero James Bowie married Ursula de Veramendi in its sanctuary, and Mexican General Santa Anna used this San Antonio historic church as a lookout. http://www.sfcathedral.org/

Natural Bridge Cavern.

This San Antonio natural wonder contains awe inspiring views with guided tours daily. Explore the area and spectacular surroundings as you descend into the natural caverns. Stop at the gift shop to purchase a variety of gems and minerals available from the area.