Alamo Plaza Attractions - Things to Do While in San Antonio

Published: July 18, 2024

The city of San Antonio seems to revolve around the site of the Alamo, the most visited historic landmark in Texas. Located in the center of downtown San Antonio, adjacent to the San Antonio River, Alamo Plaza is a bustling area full of fun restaurants, attractions, and other things to do. Check out our list of Alamo Plaza attractions to help plan your day around exploring the Alamo Plaza, from world-class museums to action-packed rides.

Save on Admission to Alamo Plaza Area Attractions

Many of the Alamo Plaza attractions listed below are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Choose as you go from many of the top San Antonio attractions and save up to 40% off combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Or, build your own pass and save up to 20% off. For all available passes, attractions, and prices - Learn more.

Hop-On Hop-Off San Antonio Bus Tour

One of the best ways to get acquainted with the area is via the CitySightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off San Antonio Bus Tour. You'll get to see all the best of San Antonio, from the Riverwalk to Southtown. Along the way you'll get informative and entertaining narration by professional guides who know all about the city's most significant landmarks, neighborhoods, and hotspots. Enjoy the freedom to hop-on and off at any of the stops to explore some of the popular attractions along the way. Getting In: Hop On Hop Off San Antonio Bus tickets are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Battle for Texas: The ExperienceSM

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Immerse yourself in every aspect of the Battle of the Alamo with Battle for Texas: The Experience and witness the spectacle, heroism, and the ultimate sacrifice made by those who fought in one of the most pivotal battles in U.S. history. In this fully interactive exhibition, you’ll travel back in time to 1836 Texas and experience what daily life was like for early Texas settlers, learn about the tensions leading up to the Texas Revolution from both Texan and Mexican perspectives, and witness the emotional Battle of the Alamo brought to life through heart-racing, multimedia re-enactments. You'll get to see lots of rare artifacts from the battle, including Santa Anna's uniform, Bowie knives, and possession that once belonged to Davy Crockett. Getting In: Battle for Texas: The Experience tickets are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Guinness World Records Museum

Explore some fascinating record-breaking history at Guinness World Records where you can see the pages of the famous books brought to life through various interactive displays and exhibits. Guinness World Records is the first museum in the world to give guests a chance at breaking official records. See if you can set any new records in the Attempt Arena or catch one of the daily live shows featuring official Guinness World Records adjudicators. Getting In: Guinness World Records Museum tickets are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Tomb Rider 3D

Part laser tag challenge, part thrill ride, Tomb Rider 3-D takes you on a spooky journey to the ancient tomb of the Egyptian God, Anubis where you'll have to battle to take down any and all obstacles that pop up along the way on this interactive ride. After the ride, try your hand at some of the classic games in the arcade. (Free!) Getting In: Tomb Rider 3D tickets are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Ripley's Haunted Adventure

If you're looking for a good scream session, see how long you last before getting scared in this spooky and interactive haunted house adventure. With its cast of live actors, high tech special effects, creepy artifacts, and props, the line between fake and reality is scarily indistinguishable. Getting In: Ripley's Haunted Adventure tickets are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

The Alamo

Rich in historic significance, the Alamo is the most visited historic landmark in all of Texas. Located in the heart of San Antonio, the former Spanish church turned battle fortress serves as a standing testament to those who sacrificed their life in 1836 in one of the most pivotal battles in American history. Walk around the square at your own pace and explore the very spot where, after months of fighting, the Texian troops defeated the larger Mexican troops achieving independence to the shouts of "Remember the Alamo!"

Ripley's Believe It or Not! San Antonio

See how you stack up next to the world's tallest man, Robert Wadlow, at Ripley's Believe It or Not! San Antonio

There's something for everyone at Ripley's Believe It or Not! San Antonio, the strangest place in San Antonio. Take a walk through 18 themed galleries and over 500 exhibits in the "Odditorium," an entire museum highlighting bizarre and unusual phenomenon from around the world. In addition to the bizarre and unusual things you'll see, you'll also get to learn about the fascinating life of Mr. Ripley himself; from semi-pro baseball player and cartoonist to collector and curator of his famous museums. Getting In: Ripley's San Antonio tickets are separately ticketed and not available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

San Antonio Fire Museum

Learn about the history of the Fire Service through an extensive collection of exhibits filled with artifacts, documents, and photos documenting the Fire Service dating back to the mid 1800's. Young ones will especially enjoy dressing up in authentic replicas of Firefighters' gear and then climbing onto the 1953 International fire truck built by the Simms Fire Equipment Company. Getting In: Admission to the San Antonio Fire Museum is free.

Buckhorn Saloon and Museum and Texas Ranger Museum

Get an immersive Texas experience and explore these two located in the same building providing a holistic portrayal of Texan history and culture. The Buckhorn Museum boasts collections wildlife from every continent of the world and natural artifacts collected from travelers passing through the area such as, bones, antlers, and over 500 distinct species of wildlife. The Texas Ranger Museum features hundreds of artifacts from the days of the Texas Ranger, including revolvers, automatic handguns, sawed off shotguns, photographs, and more. Walk through Ranger Town to see what San Antonio was like at the turn of the century complete with a replica of the Buckhorn Saloon, a jail cell, blacksmith shop, and more. Getting In: Buckhorn Saloon & Museum and Texas Ranger Museum tickets are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Let's Recap

There you have it - some of the fun Alamo Plaza attractions and things to do in the heart of San Antonio, Texas. Plan to add a few of the attractions above to your vacation itinerary to make the most of your trip. Remember, a number of the attractions listed above in addition to other popular San Antonio area attractions are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Casey Makovich

Go City Travel Expert

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2 Days in San Antonio - A Weekend in San Antonio Itinerary

Spending a weekend in San Antonio and looking for things to do? We put together a list of the best things to do in San Antonio with limited time. Check out this popular 2 days in San Antonio itinerary. This Itinerary Includes: The Alamo (free!) CitySightseeing San Antonio Hop-Off Hop-On Bus Tour Pearl Brewery San Antonio Museum of Art The Riverwalk SeaWorld® San Antonio San Antonio Zoo Looking for some other itinerary options for your trip? We’ve also put together this popular 3 day San Antonio itinerary. Save on Attraction Admission Some of the attractions included in this itinerary are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Choose as you go from many of the top San Antonio attractions and save up to 40% off combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Or, build your own pass and save up to 20% off. For all available passes, attractions, and prices - Learn more. Day 1 Stop #1: The Alamo (free!) Stop #2: CitySightseeing San Antonio Hop-On Hop-Off Tour This comprehensive San Antonio hop-on hop-off bus tour is the perfect introduction to San Antonio. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a resident who hasn't taken the time to see the sights yet, this tour provides a great overview of the city sights. Especially since the tour buses operate on 20-30 minute intervals, it's a very convenient and reliable way to get around to all of the most popular spots. The tour takes you to the best of San Antonio, from the Riverwalk to Southtown while professional guides provide informative and entertaining narration along the way. Enjoy the freedom to hop-on and off and explore any of the 18 stops as you go. Featured stops include: the Alamo, the Pearl Entertainment Complex, Veteran's Memorial Park, El Mercado, and more. Insider tip: Use your San Antonio Explorer Pass and get a 48-hour pass to this City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off tour to get around to the other attractions listed in this itinerary. Getting In: Hop On Hop Off San Antonio Bus Tour tickets are available as an option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Stop #3 - Pearl Brewery & Entertainment Complex Hop off at the very next stop: The Pearl Brewery, a culinary and cultural destination along the river, is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat. It features a farmer's market, multiple restaurants, several boutique shops, a well-curated bookstore, and plenty of entertainment options year-round. This is a great place to stop and get a feel for genuine San Antonio culture, and to enjoy things that the locals love as well. Stop #4: San Antonio Museum of Art Stop #5 - The Riverwalk Finish out the remainder of the bus tour and hop off at the last stop: the Shops at Rivercenter Mall to explore the famous Riverwalk area where you'll end the day. Consider dining here at one of the many delicious restaurants, and then save some time later for browsing the shops and stalls of the waterfront merchants. Day 2 Stop #1: SeaWorld® San Antonio Stop #2: San Antonio Zoo Let's Recap So there’s your perfect 2 days in San Antonio weekend itinerary – packed with some of the best things to do in San Antonio. This itinerary includes all of the most popular things to do in San Antonio and provides a great, all-around overview of the city’s top attractions, landmarks, and historic sites. Use this itinerary as a starting point for planning your San Antonio itinerary and customize it from there; whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, outdoor adventurer, or whatever type of traveler, San Antonio has it all. Save big when you plan your itinerary with the 4- Choice San Antonio Explorer Pass and choose from over 15 top attractions, tours, museums, and more – including popular day trips from the city, like a Natural Bridge Caverns Tour or the Texas Hill Country and Lyndon B. Johnson’s Ranch Tour. Remember, you can save on admission to many of these popular attractions and more with a San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Casey Makovich

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One Day in San Antonio Itinerary - Experience San Antonio in a Day for Under $100

Traveling to San Antonio with only one day to explore? It can be hard to decide what to do with such limited time in your schedule. Fortunately, we’ve put together a one day in San Antonio itinerary to help you make the most of your one day in this historic city. This one day itinerary includes: Six Flags Fiesta Texas The Alamo (free!) Battle For Texas: The Experience Go Rio San Antonio Cruise El Mercado (free!) Spending more than one day in San Antonio? Then take a peek at one of our sample 2-day and popular 3-day itineraries for longer stays, enjoy! Save on Attraction Admission Many of the popular attractions included in this itinerary are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Choose as you go from top attractions and save up to 45% off combined admission vs. paying at the gate. With the 3-Choice San Antonio Explorer Pass, you'll get to enjoy a full day of fun! Remember, this one day in San Antonio itinerary is just one of many ways to experience the area. The San Antonio Explorer Pass® gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from many top attractions and create a vacation tailored to your interests. Stop #1: Six Flags Fiesta Texas Start your trip with a half day of entertainment and excitement at Six Flags Fiesta Texas - a part theme park/part water park destination. The park features six themed areas: Los Festivales Crackaxle Canyon Spassburg Rockville Fiesta Bay Boardwalk and KIDZOPOLIS No matter what your favorite type of theme park fun is, from classic carnival rides with varying thrill levels and high-speed roller coasters, to water pools and slides, you'll find it at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. In addition to all of the rides, the park hosts a variety of live shows and entertainment, several dining options, and even shopping venues. Our favorite ride is the Boomerang, a triple-loop coaster that thrill-seekers will adore. NEW! Coming in 2018 is the Wonder Woman Golden Lasso coaster, an exciting single-rail coaster that's among the first of its kind in the entire world! Getting In: Six Flags Fiesta Texas tickets are available as a Premium Attraction option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Stop #2: The Alamo (free!) Alamo Square, the famous site of the Battle of the Alamo, is the most visited historic landmark in the state Texas. Conveniently located in the heart of San Antonio, it's easy to visit and a San Antonio must-see attraction. The iconic building you'll see is a former Spanish mission-turned-fortress for the battle and stands today as a testament to those who fought and gave their lives in the Battle of the Alamo--it's also the place where Texian troops won independence and famously shouted “Remember the Alamo!” after months of fighting in 1836. Insider tip: Get acquainted with some of the tales and folklore surrounding The Alamo and learn some of its history by watching the Disney miniseries Davy Crockett from the 1950s and John Wayne’s film The Alamo from 1960 before your trip! Stop #3: Battle for Texas: The Experience After spending some time at The Alamo, walk over to Battle for Texas: The Experience, right in Alamo Plaza. This fully interactive exhibition is one of the best ways to learn about The Battle of The Alamo. You'll get to witness the spectacle and heroism of one of the most pivotal battles in U.S. history. See what life was like in 1836 Texas for the early settlers, learn about the tensions leading up to the Texas Revolution from both Texan and Mexican perspectives, and more through multi-media experiences and re-enactments. You'll even get to see some artifacts from the battle first-hand, including Santa Anna's uniform, Bowie knives, and some of Davy Crockett's personal possessions. This is a great educational experience for kids and adults alike, and is an excellent companion to a visit to the Alamo. Getting in: Battle for Texas: The Experience tickets are an included attraction option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Stop #4: Go Rio San Antonio Cruise After soaking up all of that Texan history, explore San Antonio's River Walk area and start with a relaxing, 30-minute cruise along the river. Each boat is operated by an experienced and knowledgeable tour guide who will talk about some of the area's unique history and culture. You'll also learn plenty of fun facts about Texas and the flourishing River Walk community. On this scenic river cruise, you'll pass under bridges and walkways, and alongside a vibrant, bustling riverfront area as your tour guide points out all the important sites. Getting in: Rio San Antonio Cruise tickets are an included attraction option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Stop #5: El Mercado (free!) For your last stop of the day, you'll want to pop by El Mercado, the largest Mexican market outside of Mexico and one of the top 10 outdoor markets in the US, according to Frommer’s. Home to over 100 locally owned shops and stores, El Mercado is one of the best places to go for authentic Mexican fare and music and to immerse yourself in one of the cultures that has had such a large influence on San Antonio. Admission to the market is free, although anything you purchase will not be covered by the Explorer Pass. Let’s Recap There you have it – our suggestions for how to make the most of your one day in San Antonio. Plan to add a few of the attractions above to your San Antonio itinerary to make the most of your trip to Texas. Remember, you can save on admission to your choice of popular attractions, like the ones included in this one day itinerary, and more with a San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Casey Makovich

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San Antonio Surprises: Fun Near SeaWorld®

You’ve nailed down SeaWorld® tickets and packed your sunscreen—so, now what? San Antonio shines as a city where family-friendly memories, lively local eats, and Texas hospitality turn any trip into something special. The neighborhoods near SeaWorld host parks, zoos, gardens, quirky museums, shopping and more, all within a short drive of your dolphin-day dreams. Want to pet a giraffe, trek ancient natural caverns, snap arty selfies, or feast on sizzling brisket? We’ve scouted out the top spots and standout experiences to help you build your best itinerary. Ready for adventure? Here are our favorite things to do near SeaWorld® in San Antonio. Our favorite things to do near SeaWorld® include: SeaWorld® San Antonio San Antonio Zoo Natural Bridge Caverns Discovery Tour San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Tower of the Americas The Witte Museum San Antonio Botanical Garden Tejas Rodeo Company The Shops at La Cantera Go Rio San Antonio River Cruise SeaWorld San Antonio Of course, no list would be complete without the main attraction— SeaWorld® itself! This aquatic wonderland delivers thrills and close-up animal encounters across 250 sprawling acres. You’ll go from watching otters float by to seeing majestic orcas leap, all in the heart of Texas Hill Country. The vibe here is a vibrant mix of family fun and wild excitement, set to a soundtrack of splashing shows and laughter. Start your day with the dolphin presentation—a joyful, energetic display that’s part science lesson, part splash zone. The roller coasters here pack serious punch: try the Texas Stingray for sea breezes and sweeping views or brave the Journey to Atlantis for a soaking surprise. Younger adventurers will have a whale of a time in Sesame Street Bay of Play, where kid-sized rides and playful parades guarantee giggles. SeaWorld’s rescue and conservation mission feels woven through every experience, whether you’re watching rescued animals thrive or chatting with trainers. Between thrilling rides, snack on churros or try Tex-Mex standouts from food stalls. Cap off your day with the nighttime spectacular—a show of lights, music, and waterworks. SeaWorld makes a brilliant base, but you’ll be glad you explored the neighborhood, too. Natural Bridge Caverns Discovery Tour Trade the Texas sun for cool underground wonders at Natural Bridge Caverns, about a 30-minute drive from SeaWorld® but completely worth the trip. Here’s why: massive limestone chambers, mysterious tunnels, and formations that dazzle even geology skeptics. The vibe is adventurous and genuinely awe-inspiring, offering plenty of “can you believe this?” moments. Guided Discovery Tours lead you along paved walkways through cathedral-like underground rooms. Stalagmites and stalactites look like something dreamt up in a fantasy novel. Kids and adults alike love testing their echo in the enormous chambers, while budding scientists geek out over cave bats and mineral displays. The guides bring history to life, sharing tales of early explorers and the science behind those dripping formations. If you want to up your adventure, try the ropes course, mining for gems, or the Twisted Trails aerial adventure outside. A picnic area and snack bars turn this into an easy half-day escape. Even on triple-digit days, temperatures inside stay refreshingly cool. It’s a must for anyone craving a little natural wonder—or just a break from the heat. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park Ready for a side of history with your adventure? The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park preserves four of the city’s famous Spanish colonial missions, all linked by a scenic river trail just 20 minutes from SeaWorld®. These UNESCO World Heritage sites offer a peaceful, moving look at the region’s roots. Whether you walk, bike, or drive between Missions San José, Concepción, San Juan, and Espada, you’ll discover towering stone churches, centuries-old frescoes, blooming gardens, and shaded courtyards. Each mission has its own story—San José is known for its stunning Rose Window, while Espada features an 18th-century aqueduct. The atmosphere feels tranquil and reverent, with birdsong and the slow swing of mission bells. Interpretive centers at each stop include fascinating displays and friendly rangers ready to share hidden details (like which well is rumored to grant wishes!). Pick up coffee and pastries from local panaderías along the way. If you fancy a scenic break, bring a picnic under the trees. The blend of culture, architecture, and nature make the missions a favorite for travelers seeking something unique to San Antonio. Tower of the Americas Want the perfect panorama of San Antonio? Head to the Tower of the Americas downtown—a quick hop from SeaWorld®—for a sky-high escape. The 750-foot landmark rises above Hemisfair Park, offering unrivaled 360-degree views that stretch all the way to the Hill Country. The ambiance is equal parts retro and modern, with that swanky sixties space needle feel and recent upgrades that make your visit extra comfy. Step onto the glass-walled observation deck and watch the city sprawl below: the River Walk ribbons through leafy parks, the missions dot the horizon, and the Hill Country glows gold at sunset. History buffs will geek out on the informative exhibits about San Antonio’s growing skyline and the 1968 World’s Fair. The revolving Chart House restaurant is great for a special meal (look for steak and seafood highlights), but there’s also a more casual café for quick bites. Kids adore the Skies Over Texas 4D Theater, which adds a dash of virtual excitement to your outing. It’s a cool spot for couples, families, or anyone who loves snapping city photos—and the sparkling night views add a touch of romance to your San Antonio stay. The Witte Museum Craving a mix of hands-on fun and Texas tales? The Witte Museum, just 25 minutes from SeaWorld®, delivers science, history, and art in an airy riverside campus. It’s the kind of place that delights all ages—whether you geek out over dinosaur fossils, marvel at historic cowboy gear, or play your way through inventors’ labs. The South Texas Heritage Center transports you to the Wild West with real wagons, spurs, and personal stories from days gone by. Kids flock to the H-E-B Body Adventure, a four-story interactive space where climbing walls, cycling challenges, and fun fitness games rule. Step outside for world-class gardens and walking paths along the banks of the San Antonio River. Rotating exhibitions keep every visit fresh—think Maya artifacts one month, local art the next. The Witte’s blend of learning and play draws locals and visitors alike, and the riverfront picnic lawns make it easy to pause and soak up the scene. After exploring, grab a taco from a nearby café and stroll the river trails for bonus adventure. Tejas Rodeo Company Craving cowboy culture? Head north to Tejas Rodeo Company for an evening of authentic Texas rodeo, live music, and hearty barbecue—all just 25 minutes from SeaWorld®. It’s a high-energy, all-ages experience that immerses you in the Lone Star spirit, complete with dust, boots, and plenty of yeehaw. The Saturday night rodeos (seasonal, March–November) deliver classic competitions: barrel racing, bull riding, and trick roping, all set under string lights and open skies. The crowd gets into the action, cheering for pint-sized mutton busters and local ranch hands alike. Between events, grab a barbecue plate piled with brisket or ribs, or savor a cold beer while Texas bands take over the dance floor. Families will love the petting zoo, pony rides, and western games. If you’re after something a little different, try your hand at roping lessons or take a sunset ride on the property’s horseback trails. The relaxed country vibe and friendly faces make even first-timers feel like rodeo regulars—so pull on your boots and join the fun! The Shops at La Cantera When your crew is ready for retail therapy or just a change of scenery, The Shops at La Cantera delivers. This open-air mall, less than 10 minutes from SeaWorld®, combines luxury labels with local boutiques, set among leafy courtyards and shaded walkways. The mood is breezy and casual—you can flip-flop between Saks and surf shops, then cool off with artisan ice cream. Highlights include flagship stores for Apple, Anthropologie, and Nordstrom, plus local gems like Kendra Scott jewelry and handcrafted home décor at Texas-unique shops. Dining options impress, from gourmet burgers at Hopdoddy to wood-fired pizzas and sushi. We always make time for Las Palapas, where friendly staff serve up classic breakfast tacos with bold salsas. Live music and seasonal pop-up markets keep things vibrant, and kids love the landscaped play areas and splash pads. The Shops at La Cantera are the go-to spot for picking up something stylish, recharging with a cappuccino, or simply people-watching under swaying palms. Go Rio San Antonio River Cruise When you’re ready for downtown fun, a Go Rio River Cruise is pure San Antonio magic. These colorful barges glide through the city’s winding River Walk, blending urban buzz with serene water views. Wheelhouse staff keep things playful, sharing tidbits of city history and fun local lore. Generally, the mood is lively but laid-back—think gentle sightseeing with a side of Texas charm. Hop on a narrated cruise to admire tile-adorned bridges, cascades of flowers, and the blend of Spanish and modern architecture that defines the River Walk. You’ll float past bustling patios, hidden art installations, and twinkling lights in the evening. Options range from quick 35-minute tours to themed adventures and private charters. Post-cruise, stay riverside for a table at Iron Cactus (killer margaritas and sizzling fajitas) or an al fresco meal at Boudro’s (prickly pear margarita alert!). Day or night, the river scene is a must for first-timers and locals alike. It’s the perfect way to wind down a busy sightseeing day or kick off an evening of exploring downtown San Antonio’s attractions and nightlife. Want more? Check out our comprehensive guide to SeaWorld ® San Antonio, and discover what to do in Downtown San Antonio. Step up your sightseeing with Go City® We make it easy to explore the best a city has to offer. We’re talking top attractions, hidden gems and local tours, all for one low price. Plus, you'll enjoy guaranteed savings, compared to buying individual attraction tickets. See more, do more, and experience more with Go City®– just choose a pass to get started!

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