Christmas in San Antonio

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
Christmas in San Antonio

It's the most wonderful time of the year! Christmas, the biggest and best holiday, is once again upon us. Heading to San Antonio over the festive break? Wondering what Christmasy things to get up to while you're there? Good, because we've curated this list of the best reasons to visit San Antonio over Christmas! Read on, pick your faves, and go check them out.

Including:

  • Christmas cheer at Six Flags
  • Underground Carol Singing at the Natural Bridge Caverns
  • Get festive at Historic Market Square
  • Turn on the lights at San Antonio Botanical Gardens
  • See Santa at Christmas on the Ranch
  • and more!
Image of Amusement Park, Fun, Roller Coaster,

White (Christmas) knuckle thrills at Six Flags

Let's kick things off with a Christmas miracle of sorts. Your first thoughts of Christmas in San Antonio might not be of the theme park juggernaut Six Flags, but think again. Because from the end of November to the beginning of January, Six Flags transforms into a winter wonderland.

You'll discover dazzling light displays, live entertainment at every corner, and you've still got all those rides to try. But the jewel in Six Flags' Christmas bonanza is arguably 'The Majesty of Christmas', a stunning reenactment of the nativity, full of songs, animals, and angels literally flying through the air.

And, well, it doesn't get much more Christmasy than that!

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Let the songs ring out at the Natural Bridge Caverns

From the tops of Six Flags' tallest rides, we now descend deep into the Earth. While exploring caves might not sound like a particularly festive time, you'll find a rather unique Christmas experience down in San Antonio's famous Natural Bridge Caverns.

Thats' because carol singers who live in the caves dress themselves up over the festive period, ready to sing songs to unsuspecting explorers! Well, we assume they live there; otherwise, why sing there at all? And they're joined by everyone's favorite fat bearded man Santa, who you may well see spelunking down the cavern walls!

When you're done down in the depths, head up top to experience the Natural Bridge Caverns' outdoor playground, including a Christmasy maze, a 30-foot tall Christmas tree, and a walking trail with lots of lights. And if San Antonio's chill gets a bit much, sit down by the campfire and warm up! Easily one of the most unique things to do over Christmas in San Antonio.

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Go see the lights at Windcrest

In what has become a Christmas tradition in the city, the Windcrest neighborhood of San Antonio competes to see who has the best home decorations. Head there in early December, and you can admire every house you find. Head there a little later in the month, and the winners will already be picked! So, if you only want to see the best of the best, head to City Hall, pick up a map of the winners, and go see them for yourself!

For over six decades, the fun competition has stood the test of time, with winners outdoing one another every year! You've never seen anything like, it, so it's absolutely worth a visit if you're in San Antonio around Christmas time.

Need a quick and easy way to get around the map? Why not hire an E-bike? San Antonio's winters put many summers to shame, so breezing around on a bike might be just the thing. Burn some of those Christmas calories and get around Windcrest at your own pace. Nice.

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Down by the river

Another traditional San Antonio thing is to deck the river with decorations. Starting off life as a religious display to guide the holy family, it has since become a more general Christmas celebration. Now, the San Antonio River is lined with light-covered trees. Over 100,000 of the beauties, to be exact. So, if you want the perfect photo opportunity, head down there and take a walk!

There are plenty of restaurants, bars, and Christmas stalls along the way, should you need to refuel on your adventure. Or, if you fancy adding even more adventure to your trip, why not take a cruise river instead? Walking's great and all, but riding down the river on a boat with the lights surrounding you is something else entirely. Magical. Christmas magic, that's what it is.

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Christmas like a cowboy at Don Strange Ranch

If 100,000 Christmas lights just aren't enough lights for you, how about 4 million? Because if you head down to the Don Strange Ranch during the Christmas season, that's what you'll find. 4 million Christmas lights, and plenty more too.

Featuring a mile of lights to drive beneath, a host of Christmasy cowboy rides to try out, and a market full of stalls selling everything from eggnog to s'mores, you'll be all Christmas'd out by the end of it.

If you want to make a day of it and see more of San Antonio's old west side, why not take a tour of Texas Hill County and LBJ Ranch during the day, and then head to Don Strange Ranch at night when the lights are all the more spectacular? Yee-haw!

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Christmas, Mexico style, at Historic Market Square!

While many cities traditionally have European-themed Christmas markets, not San Antonio. Oh no. See, San Antonio was once part of Mexico, so they do things a little more southern here. It's still a Christmas market, but not one you've experienced before.

The usual suspects are still in full force - carol singing, Christmas stalls with food and drink, as well as places to buy small stocking fillers. It's just with a Mexican twist. A spicy twist, if you will.

So if you're around over the holiday season, go check it out!

Image of Lighting, Purple, Light, Electronics, LED, Urban,

Dazzling lights at San Antonio Botanical Gardens

And finally, because we all really like Christmas lights, why not treat yourself to the dazzling show at San Antonio's Botanical Gardens?

It's a one-of-a-kind display featuring a metric ton of Christmas lights. Lightscape is the real tour-de-force there; a corridor of lights that is sure to put the cheer in you!

And those were our picks of the best reasons to spend Christmas in San Antonio! If you're looking for more fun things to do during your vacation, check out Go City. With our Explorer Pass, you can see San Antonio's best bits at your own pace!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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November Adventures: How to Enjoy San Antonio Like a Local

San Antonio in November is a vibe all its own—think bright skies, fewer crowds, and that wonderful mix of autumn coziness and Texas energy. The River Walk twinkles with early holiday lights, patios buzz with locals enjoying seasonal bites, and you can catch everything from cultural festivals to outdoor wildlife adventures. Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, thrill-seeker, or someone who just wants to soak up autumn sun, November is your secret season to see San Antonio’s best. Wondering where to start? We’ve got you covered with the most unique, delicious, and wallet-friendly things to do as the year starts drawing to a close.  Our November favorites in San Antonio include:  San Antonio Zoo  Natural Bridge Caverns Discovery Tour  Seaworld® San Antonio  San Antonio Botanical Garden  Tower of the Americas  GO RIO San Antonio River Cruise  Day of the Dead festivities and downtown holiday lights  The Witte Museum  Tejas Rodeo Company  Texas Hill Country wine tours  Natural Bridge Caverns Discovery Tour: Underground Adventures  When the temperatures drop and you’re ready for a new kind of Texas thrill, head north of the city to the Natural Bridge Caverns. This underground world, filled with awe-inspiring formations and mystery, is just the right blend of adventure and science. November’s cooler weather makes it an ideal time for the Discovery Tour, where you’ll slip into a constant 70-degree cave temperature—so you’ll be comfy, whatever happens outside.  The main draw is the otherworldly atmosphere: stalactites, stalagmites, and swooping cathedral-like chambers created over millions of years. Enthusiastic guides share geology fun facts, legendary stories, and point out spots where water drips down to create new crystal fans.  Above ground, the fun doesn’t stop. The outdoor area hosts a maze that’s perfect for children (or competitive adults), plus gem and fossil mining for hands-on discovery. If you’re up for a little more action, the Twisted Trails rope course gives you an adrenaline rush with fantastic Hill Country views. In November, the crowds are lighter, so you get lots of space for photos, your own pace, and time to soak in the sheer scale of Texas beneath your feet. It’s a surprising, energizing way to spend a fall day.  Seaworld® San Antonio: Splash into Festive Fun  SeaWorld® in November? Absolutely! As autumn settles in, SeaWorld® San Antonio feels fresh and lively—and there’s no threat of sunburn or summer swarms. SeaWorld® is still a thrill-seeker’s paradise. Ride the Texas Stingray coaster for big drops and cool breezes, then refuel with seasonal snacks (don’t miss the sweet roasted nuts, which scent the air near the entrance). The park’s animal shows take on a festive twist—watch beluga whales and bottlenose dolphins leap against a backdrop of choreographed holiday tunes.  For a calmer moment, step into Penguin Encounter or explore Shark Tunnel, where you can gaze at sea life swirling above and around you. Time your visit for the early evening, as the whole park glows with lights, and cap off the night with a cup of hot cocoa in hand. SeaWorld in November offers just the right mix of action, relaxation, and heartwarming cheer, even before December rolls in.  San Antonio Botanical Garden: Fall Colors and Festive Plants  When you picture San Antonio, maybe you think of cacti and palms, but the San Antonio Botanical Garden proves the city can put on quite a seasonal show. November is prime time for local color—camellias, lantana, and ornamental grasses spill over, while the garden’s native Texas sections glimmer with golds and reds. The cooler air means it’s pleasant to stroll the shaded pathways, and the tranquil koi ponds provide a little Zen whenever you need it.  The garden’s highlights include the glass-domed Conservatory, which houses everything from rainforest orchids to desert succulents, and a Texas Native Trail that feels especially peaceful in autumn. Families will want to head to the children’s adventure area, where little ones can climb, splash and explore to their hearts’ content.  Each November, special events like seasonal plant sales, garden yoga, and themed walks take place. If you’re a foodie at heart, keep an eye out for cooking demos in the Teaching Kitchen, where chefs show off recipes using garden-fresh ingredients. Whether you’re seeking a quiet escape or inspiration for your own backyard, the Botanical Garden is a beautiful way to unwind—and snap some bright, leafy photos for your feed.  Tower of the Americas: Sky-High Sights and Twinkling Lights  Standing tall in Hemisfair Park, the Tower of the Americas is San Antonio’s best perch for sweeping views and a unique sunset experience. Hop in the glass elevator and rise 750 feet to the observation deck, where you’ll enjoy 360-degree city views glimmering under autumn’s golden light. November skies tend to be extra clear, making for stunning photos as the sun sinks and the city’s early holiday lights flicker on.  Inside, you’ll find informative exhibits about San Antonio’s history and a fun 4D theater ride that zooms you through Texas landscapes (prepare for wind, squirted water, and a few surprises). For dinner with a backdrop, try Chart House Restaurant, which slowly rotates for ever-changing scenery with each bite. Their prime rib and decadent lava cake get rave reviews, and the sparkling cocktails are perfect for toasting your trip.  After you descend, the surrounding Hemisfair Park offers more November treats—art installations, interactive play areas, and food trucks serving everything from birria tacos to fresh churros. As early evenings settle in, fairy lights wrap the trees, creating a relaxed, festive atmosphere that feels like the start of the holidays.  Day of the Dead and Downtown Holiday Lights: Culture and Celebration  San Antonio knows how to throw a party—especially when the Day of the Dead (Día de los Muertos) ends in early November. You don’t need tickets or RSVP; just stroll through downtown’s colorful altars, giant skeleton puppets, and bands playing everything from traditional mariachis to urban Cumbia beats. Head to La Villita Historic Arts Village and Hemisfair Park, where artists display vibrant sugar skulls, papel picado flags flutter overhead, and local food stalls tempt you with pan de muerto and spicy champurrado.  As Día de los Muertos festivities blend into the city’s early holiday season, keep your camera ready for the River Walk and Alamo Plaza’s annual Holiday Lights debut. Sparkling, colorful strands float above walkways; bridges become more photogenic than ever, and it feels like every storefront gets in on the fun. Seasonal markets pop up along the way—perfect for snagging artisan gifts or sampling tamales. The vibe all month: welcoming, artsy, and full of life.  It’s this tradition of blending the old with the new, the sacred with the playful, that creates the quintessential San Antonio November. These moments offer meaningful cultural snapshots—and the best Instagram photos you’ll take all year.  The Witte Museum: Texas Stories for Curious Travelers  Fall days are made for cozy explorations, and the Witte Museum ticks every box if you’re seeking history, hands-on science, and quirky Texas tales. Nestled on the banks of the San Antonio River, this flagship museum mixes interactive exhibits with treasures from the city’s wild past. November marks the start of winter exhibition season, so you might encounter special displays on regional artists, prehistoric beasties, or the rich culinary heritage of South Texas.  Families love the Dinosaur Gallery, while fitness fans can challenge themselves on a bike in the “Bodies Adventure” exhibit to see just how far they could travel powered by tacos alone (it’s farther than you think). The museum’s centerpiece, the H-E-B Science Treehouse, features climbable, explorable spaces for all ages. It’s joyful, energizing, and sparks curiosity on every floor.  Step outside to the museum’s native Texas gardens or stroll through the Peristyle with its rotating sculpture installations. The Witte feels welcoming and unrushed, especially in November, when you’ll often have exhibits all to yourself and can linger at your favorites. Be sure to check the schedule for talks, programs, and Friday evening events—there’s always something that makes learning feel like an adventure.  Tejas Rodeo Company: Authentic Texan Thrills  If you’ve never experienced a Texas rodeo, November is the time to go—and Tejas Rodeo Company is your one-stop shop for boots, barbecue, and bull riding near San Antonio. Located just up the road in Bulverde, this lively spot hosts seasonal rodeos that blend competition, music, and family-friendly entertainment in one legendary setting.  Expect heart-pounding action: barrel racing, steer roping, and the always hilarious calf scramble for kids. The grandstands buzz with energy, while the house band plays classic country and Western hits between events. You’ll munch on slow-cooked brisket and smokey sausage—Tejas’ barbecue shack is beloved by locals—and sip sweet iced tea under the open Texas stars.  What sets Tejas apart? It’s more than a show—it’s a true gathering place, where regulars welcome visitors, and everyone slows down to watch the broncos kick up dust. Even if you know nothing about rodeo, you’ll be on your feet clapping by night’s end. The autumn air adds just enough chill to make a campfire or s'mores a cozy bonus. For a trip memory you’ll talk about for years, Tejas Rodeo is tough to beat.  Texas Hill Country Wine Tours: Sip and Savor the Season  Just outside San Antonio lies a rolling landscape of sun-soaked vineyards and picturesque small towns. November is wine country’s secret season—harvest is done, the leaves start turning, and tasting rooms buzz with holiday specials. Join a guided tour (or drive your own adventure) through Fredericksburg, Comfort, or New Braunfels, sampling everything from bold Tempranillo to crisp Texas whites.  Most wineries get into a festive mood this time of year, stringing up lights, hosting live music, and serving cheese boards loaded with local honey and fresh-baked bread. Becker Vineyards is famous for lavender fields and strong reds, while Grape Creek offers Tuscan-inspired patios and kitchens pouring wood-fired pizzas. If you’re looking for the signature Texas touch, Fiesta Winery has some of the friendliest staff and pours a holiday-inspired cranberry blush that’s both quirky and delicious.  Fall in Hill Country is mild and gentle, the perfect setting for relaxing with friends or surprising your sweetheart with a weekend escape. Some stops offer vineyard tours, where you can learn the story behind every bottle, while others welcome you to picnic among the vines. Even if you don’t know much about wine, you’ll walk away with new favorites—and a fresh appreciation for Texas’s tastiest crop.    November in San Antonio is pure autumn magic, wrapped in culture, comfort, and a hint of holiday sparkle. Whether you're laughing with friends on a river cruise, getting wild at the zoo, twirling your fork through Tex-Mex on a botanical patio, or raising a glass out in Hill Country, you’ll discover why this month is one of the city’s best kept secrets. Pack your coziest sweater, bring your camera, and give yourself plenty of time—there’s never been a better time to uncover San Antonio’s fall surprises.    Want more? Check out our comprehensive guide to SeaWorld San Antonio, and make the most of outdoor adventures in the city.  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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San Antonio Labor Day Weekend 2019 - 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

San Antonio is a city defined by a vibrant multicultural heritage and strong historical roots, from the Alamo to the LBJ Ranch and beyond. So if you’re contemplating a trip south for your Labor Day excursions, consider San Antonio at the top of your list. If you’re looking for San Antonio Labor Day Weekend 2019 ideas, check out some of these local activities and fun things do in San Antonio in September, including: Six Flags Fiesta Texas Go Rio San Antonio River Cruise San Antonio Zoo SeaWorld San Antonio Tower of the Americas The Witte Museum River Walk Labor Day Arts & Crafts Show Hemisfair Park Market Square Outdoor Film Series From all the must-see spots on a San Antonio bucket list to the perfect special events to attend during Labor Day weekend, we've got you covered! 1. Go Rio San Antonio River Cruise This relaxing and informative 30-minute cruise along San Antonio’s riverfront neighborhood is both a great introduction to the city and a fun way to escape the heat for a bit. Enjoy learning about historical fun facts as you cruise by some of the city's best landmarks. The Rio San Antonio River Cruise is a definite must for first-time visitors, too. Plus, the River Walk neighborhood is one of the most popular in the city and this delightful cruise is the perfect way to scope it out. 2. Six Flags Fiesta Texas The whole family will love spending the day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. Six Flags Fiesta Texas is the most exhilarating theme park in all of San Antonio. Whether you're looking for thrill rides or kid-friendly carnival games, you'll find it here. Take a ride on the new Wonder Woman Golden Lasso Coaster or head over to the water park to cool down on the Bermuda Triangle Slide or Big Bender Raft Ride. And make sure you check out the Celebrate! Summer Nights Spectacular that takes place every night at the park. Once the sun goes down, keep your eyes peeled for a topnotch pyrotechnic show complete with fire and water displays. 3. San Antonio Zoo Another great place to take the kids for Labor Day Weekend (or any weekend, really) is the San Antonio Zoo. 750 different species call the 50-acre zoo home, so there's plenty of things to see and do that will keep you entertained for the whole day. Check out the Butterfly Garden, a crowd favorite, where you can immerse yourself in this gorgeous creature's natural habitat. The Zoo is also conveniently located in Brackenridge Park, a good community center that also features a Japanese Tea Garden, a golf course, and many fields and pavilions. The Witte Museum is also nearby, which is a top artsy option for the creative folks (more on that below). 4. SeaWorld San Antonio Dive deep into the wonders of the ocean at SeaWorld San Antonio. Experience up-close interactions with your favorite aquatic animals. Watch the bottlenose dolphins interact at Discovery Point or catch an awe-inspiring educational show like Killer Whales: Up Close. After you've had your fill of animal attractions, head to the theme park rides! Popular rides include the Wave Breaker, Steel Eel Roller Coaster, and the Sesame Street Bay of Play. A day at SeaWorld San Antonio is a one of a kind experience that the whole family will remember for years to come. 5. Tower of the Americas Tower of the Americas is San Antonio's tallest building and a great landmark to add to your San Antonio sightseeing bucket list. Journey up to the Flags Over Texas Observation Deck for aerial views of the entire city. You'll be able to see all of San Antonio's top landmarks, like the Alamo, from this vantage point. You can also catch a showing of Skies of Texas: 4D Theater Ride. Fly over the Lone Star State in a 4D simulator and see a Friday night football game, a NASA Space Shuttle and more. If you're visiting on a Friday, stay put for Party on the Plaza. Every Friday, Tower of the Americas hosts a free concert that is open to the public. 6. Special Exhibits at the Witte Museum The Witte Museum shares the rich history of San Antonio and Texas as a whole. It's a great place for history buffs to learn more about what makes San Antonio, San Antonio. There are a number of special exhibitions currently on display that will be available this summer. Their thrilling featured exhibit is one for the outdoorsy folks who pride themselves on their handy skills--Survival: The Exhibition, How to Stay Alive Anywhere. Combining science and culture into one sweeping exploration of harsh climates from around the globe, this exhibition evokes STEM principles as it encourages visitors to think, play, and problem-solve. It closes after Labor Day Weekend, so be sure to get there on your trip this summer. Another top exhibition that will be running late this summer is The Art of Texas: 250 Years. From the nineteenth century to the twentieth, and through to our own century, the more than one hundred pieces included in this exhibition showcases the breadth and variety of artwork inspired by and created in Texas. This exhibition closes on August 25, 2019, so it doesn't quite make it to Labor Day but you can still enjoy the artwork if you're in town a bit earlier. 7. Labor Day Artisan Show Walk Visit one of the most beautiful and lively neighborhoods in all of San Antonio with a trip to the Labor Day Artisan Show Walk at San Antonio River Walk. Stroll around soaking up all the amazing sights and sounds, and perhaps come home with a souvenir from local artists and artisans. From unique, hand-crafted household items to one of a kind pieces for your wardrobe, you're sure to find something here. The Labor Day Artisan Show Walk is free and open to the public. The 2019 dates are August 30 - September 2. 8. Hemisfair Park Photo via Heidi Gollub Originally built for the 1968 World’s Fair, this grand park is both a relaxing green oasis in the middle of San Antonio and a bustling hub of activities and events. Come here to picnic and play Frisbee, take in free movies, participate in yoga classes held in the gorgeous Yanaguana Garden, play around with art classes, and much more. Admission to Hemisfair Park is free, but select events may have a separate admission cost. 9. Market Square Photo via Jim Nix Visit the largest Mexican market in the entire country at Market Square. This festive neighborhood is filled with everything from shops and restaurants to performers and art exhibits. Admission to Market Square is free, but be sure to budget for extensive souvenir shopping here! 10. Outdoor Film Series Image credit: City of San Antonio. Hosted by the City of San Antonio World Heritage Office at the Mission Marquee Plaza, this free summer film series is perfect for families with kids. In addition to the free film screening, visitors can enjoy food trucks, live entertainment, and more. Bring your lawn chairs and blankets and settle in for an evening of fun. You can also bring your own food and drinks if you'd prefer not to take advantage of the food trucks. Pets are welcome, too! The lineup is different all summer, but the movie dates closest to Labor Day 2019 are August 17 (Captain Marvel) and September 7 (Dumbo). Save on Attraction Admission There you have it - plenty of fun ideas for things to do in San Antonio in September to help you plan your Labor Day weekend itinerary. There are plenty more options, too, like renting a bike and pedaling around the waterfront, taking advantage of end-of-summer sales at local shopping outlets, strolling through the serene Japanese Tea Garden, and sipping a cool beverage at a waterfront café. Remember, some of these great attraction options are available on the Go San Antonio pass, where you can save up to 45% on combined admission vs. paying at the gate. If you need more advice on things to do in San Antonio, we've got you covered there, too! Check out our guide to San Antonio for first-time visitors. Share your adventure with us Remember to tag @GoCity in your holiday snaps and we'll feature you on our page. Follow the Go City Instagram and Facebook pages for competitions, special offers, events and inspiration for your chosen destination too!
Katie Sagal
DoSeum in San Antonio
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Best Museums in San Antonio

Learning is one of life's many joys, but for many of us, it takes until adulthood to feel like that. When you're younger, learning can feel like a drag. After all, school gets in the way of all your life-learning experiences. How can you learn how to perfect a kickflip when you've got math? Learning to style pigtails? Sorry, write another book report on Of Mice and Men. Ugh. School, right? But now you're an adult, and what do you learn? Work's hardly stimulating your brain. Where can you turn for some of that sweet, sweet knowledge? Put down that book, you square, and head to a museum! These monuments to history, knowledge, and discovery come in all shapes and sizes, serving you with a hearty helping of information. San Antonio has its fair share of museums, so no matter your desires, you're sure to find one just for you. But which are the best? Read on, discover our picks of the best museums in San Antonio, and then brave the outdoors to see them. Including: Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum San Antonio Museum of Art The Alamo & Long Barrack Museum Witte Museum and more! Image courtesy of JustPixs/Shutterstock Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum Let's kick things off with some bucking buckaroos! If you're the kind of person that yearns for the Old West, minus the rampant diseases, daily chance of death, and general horror, then boy, do we have a museum for you! Take a trip back to Texas' hat-tipping past at the Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum! The Buckhorn Museum traces its heritage back to the late 1800s. The founder of the saloon started collecting bones, antlers, and other natural artifacts from hunters and tradespeople passing through. Now, you can see more than 500 species of preserved wildlife, some as old as ten thousand years old! The antler display alone is worth a whole picture album, so get snapping. Then, enter the adjoining Texas Ranger Museum to get a better look at life on the frontier. Created to bring law to a lawless place, you can now get up close and personal with their gear. You'll find hundreds of authentic ranger artifacts, from weapons and badges to their hats and coats. Even people with a passing interest in the old west will consider these two the best museums in San Antonio, so add them to your itinerary and go see them for yourself! Image courtesy of AbeSnap23/Shutterstock San Antonio Museum of Art Looking for something a little more...visually appealing? Then you're probably in the market for an art museum. In which case, how does gazing at over 30,000 artistic objects from over 5000 years of human history sound? Good? Well, take yourself to the San Antonio Museum of Art, then, because that's where you'll find them. You'll find historical delights from ancient Egypt, Greece, and Rome, as well as art from Asian and Latin-American History. But that's not all, because they're joined by contemporary pieces courtesy of some of the best modern artists around. You'll even find exhibits dedicated to Texan artists! If art is your thing, the San Antonio Museum of Art should be a must-visit on your vacation. The Alamo & Long Barrack Museum The Alamo is one of the most famous places in America. For more than 300 years, five different armies have been positioned there, and the flags of six different nations have been hoisted atop it. Perhaps most famously, it was the arena for the Battle of the Alamo, where Mexican troops retook the fortress before US coalition forces eventually retook it, finally declaring Texas a US State. So, there's a lot of history here. Why not explore it and visit this hallowed ground for yourself? You've got plenty of options during your visit. You could take a guided tour of the fort and surrounding area, or go your own way with an audio tour. You'll find the Alamo Church and the Long Barrack Museum on the grounds too, where you can learn more about the armies, and the people within them, which called the fortress home. You can even participate in recreations of famous moments from the Alamo, if you're so inclined. Courtesy of Kit Leong/Shutterstock Witte Museum Prefer your history of the natural sort? Well, why not head to San Antonio's largest museum and go exploring? With over 10 acres of space dedicated to everything from science to history, the Witte Museum is one of the best museums in San Antonio! Explore the Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery, where you'll encounter skeletons, excavate dinosaur bones, and learn about giant dinosaur footprints. Did you know that Texas was covered in water 90 million years ago? Well, you will do when you go! At H-E-B Body Adventure, you'll explore the human body like never before. Over four floors, you'll learn about its limits, and its goings on from the inside out. And at the Kittie West Nelson Ferguson People of the Pecos Gallery, you'll learn about the lives and travails of Tecan prehistoric hunter-gatherers. Gaze upon life-sized recreations of their camps, how they created artwork within caves, and what they did to survive. The DoSeum Bringing the little ones along with you on your vacation? Then treat them to a museum made just for them! The DoSeum is San Antonio's museum for kids, and it's a great place to open their minds. Part museum, part classroom, they'll learn all about themselves, their world, and what lies beyond. Fun is the name of the game here, so don't expect any stuffy classrooms where they'll be bored. Instead, DoSeum aims to make learning fun, with interactive exhibits and workshops that will help them develop interests in science, art, and writing. It might not have much for us grown-ups, but with plenty to keep your kids engaged, you'll get away with doing something for yourself right after! And those are our picks for the best museums in San Antonio! Now take that newfound knowledge and go out to change the world! Or, at least, flex your superior intellect to your colleagues. If you're looking for more fun things to do during your vacation, check out Go City. With our Explorer Pass, you can see San Antonio's best bits, as well as some of the best museums in the city, at your own pace!
Dom Bewley

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