No-Cost Excursions Around Natural Bridge Caverns

Published: May 19, 2026
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Natural Bridge Caverns guarantees underground adventure, but there’s so much more to discover—above ground and all around this famous San Antonio attraction. Maybe you’ve spent the morning winding through ancient limestone passages, but you’re not ready to call it a day… or maybe exploring new corners of the Lonestar State calls to you, with or without opening your wallet. Good news: north San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country serve up greenbelt getaways, historic hideaways, quirky roadside stops, and plenty of local color—all within easy reach, all free to enjoy. Whether you’re traveling with kids, friends, or flying solo, these nearby gems will stretch your trip and your travel fund. Ready to be surprised? Let’s jump into San Antonio’s best free things to do near Natural Bridge Caverns. 

Our fave free things to do near Natural Bridge Caverns include: 

Bracken Cave Preserve (seasonal viewing from nearby roads) 

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch Free Roaming Loop 

Comal Springs at Landa Park 

Panther Springs Park 

The Brackenridge Park Japanese Tea Garden 

Old Town Helotes 

The Rim Greenbelt Trail 

Gruene Historic District Window Shopping & Music 

McAllister Park 

Scenic Drive on FM 3009 and Natural Bridge Road 

Bracken Cave Preserve (Seasonal Viewing from Nearby Roads)

Bracken Cave is the summer home to the world’s largest bat colony—millions of Mexican free-tailed bats—to be precise. While the cave itself is on protected, private land and official tours cost money, every local will tell you: the evening emergence is so massive that you can witness the swirling, smoky cloud from miles around. That’s right, just pick one of the country roads that run near the preserve (FM 3009 is your best bet) around dusk from May through September, and look to the sky. Grab your crew, bring a picnic or your favorite cold drinks, and watch as a living river of bats pours out in search of insects—and creates a sunset spectacle you’ll be talking about for ages. 

This experience packs genuine Texas magic. The air vibrates with the beat of wings, and the setting sun paints everything gold and crimson. For animal lovers and nature enthusiasts, there’s something awe-inspiring about knowing all of this— the world’s greatest wildlife show—happens just a quick drive from the Caverns and is absolutely free. There are even a few roadside pull-offs where other bat lovers gather if you fancy some friendly chatter and tips from locals who know the best viewing spots. 

Pro tip: for best results, bring binoculars or a camera with a zoom lens. The bats don’t circle close but the scale is truly impressive—and that’s saying a lot in bat-crazy central Texas! 

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch Free Roaming Loop 

You might be surprised to learn there’s a safari-style wildlife ranch right next door to Natural Bridge Caverns! Admission is required to take your vehicle on the official animal drive-through, but you can see many animals—ostriches, zebras, emus, and antelope—without buying a ticket. Walk or park along Natural Bridge Caverns Road where it borders the ranch’s wide open spaces. Watch herds grazing in the fields and snap photos when the curious ostriches wander close to the fence. 

It’s a delight to spot these animals in such an open, wild-feeling Texas landscape. The longhorn cattle, in particular, look like living reminders that you’re deep in Hill Country, and the zebras are always crowd favorites with their high-energy antics. Kids and animal fans will spend ages keeping a lookout for all the species, and the ever-changing “cast” keeps things interesting—some days it’s a parade of giraffes, on others, you’ll spot the unmistakable black-and-white stripes at the horizon. 

We love the blend of safari style with rural Texas—it’s the kind of quirky roadside encounter that makes road trips around the San Antonio area such a joy. Even if you don’t see every creature, just the fun of scanning the horizon is worth the detour. 

Comal Springs at Landa Park 

Landa Park, in nearby New Braunfels, is a local treasure and the perfect way to cool down after your Caverns exploration. The true centerpiece? Comal Springs, the largest natural springs in Texas. Bubbling from limestone aquifers, these crystal-clear waters feed pools, springs, and streams throughout the park—and no ticket’s needed to dip your toes in or sprawl on the grassy banks. 

The park buzzes with the sounds of giggling families, ducks quacking, and friends chatting beneath ancient oaks. Wander the shaded trails, cross charming stone bridges over turquoise streams, or people-watch from a shady picnic spot. The springs themselves are endlessly fascinating—watch for small fish darting in the shallows, and see if you can spot the spot where the spring bubbles largest. 

When you’re ready to stretch your legs, you’ll find miles of walking and cycling paths, plus a miniature train that loops through the park (tickets for the train do have a small charge, but the ride is optional). The local squirrels are fearless, and the sense of relaxation is contagious. It’s easy to see why Hill Country families return here summer after summer. Bring a swimsuit if you like (and check signs for any swimming restrictions) or simply enjoy Texas’ largest spring system in all its free-flowing, picnic-perfect glory. 

Panther Springs Park 

For anyone who loves the wild side of San Antonio, Panther Springs Park is a true gift. This sprawling green space is part of the city’s extensive trail network—but unlike busy city parks, Panther Springs feels untamed, almost rugged. Located a short drive from the Caverns, this is where native prairie and thick trees meet winding creek beds and wide-open sky. Leashed dogs are welcome (there’s even a dog park!), so it’s a favorite with local pups and their humans. 

Follow the main trail as it snakes through grasslands filled with wildflowers each spring and summer. Watch for butterflies, roadrunners, and the occasional white-tailed deer. The park’s design celebrates Texas’ natural character, so expect to see prickly pear cactus, stands of cedar trees, and birds of prey riding thermals overhead. Quiet benches dot the walkways if you want a rest, and there’s never a shortage of peaceful corners to relax, read, or let the kids burn off energy. 

One of our favorite things about Panther Springs? You can hike for an hour or more without ever retracing your steps or hearing city traffic. This is nature, Hill Country-style—accessible, restorative, and always changing with the seasons—all for free. 

The Brackenridge Park Japanese Tea Garden 

Travel a bit south, and you’ll find one of the loveliest hidden gems near downtown San Antonio: the historic Japanese Tea Garden in Brackenridge Park. This peaceful oasis costs nothing to explore, but it delivers maximum impact—meandering stone paths, quietly burbling ponds filled with shimmering koi, and carefully tended gardens bursting with color year round. 

Originally a limestone quarry, the Tea Garden was transformed in the early 20th century by craftsmen who created stone archways, pagodas, and dramatic bridges that still set the mood today. The air feels cooler and calmer beneath the shade of bamboo and cypress, and every corner brings a new angle for photos or peaceful contemplation. 

Sit in the pagoda and listen to the gentle rush of waterfalls, or watch turtles sunning themselves on stones near the water’s edge. Walk the serpentine trails, admire lush ferns and brightly colored flowers, and let the tranquil sounds wash away the Texas heat. It’s a photogenic spot for families, solo explorers, and anyone looking to recharge. Catch a free community concert at the Sunken Garden Theater next door if you’re lucky enough to visit on the right day! 

Old Town Helotes

History and a dash of small-town Texas personality await in Old Town Helotes, a picturesque village just a short drive from the Caverns. Walking the main drag, you’re surrounded by a blend of 19th-century stone storefronts, antique murals, and shaded patios, all buzzing with friendly energy. Old Town hosts several annual festivals, free art walks, and market days that turn the street into a neighborly fiesta, but you don’t need a special occasion to enjoy its charm. 

Pop into the free Helotes History Center to learn about Texas’ early settlers, bootleggers, and the cattle-drive era. Check out public art installations dotted along the sidewalk, and stop in at the Old Town outdoor stage, where there’s often a local band playing for visitors on weekends. Even at its quietest, Old Town Helotes offers photogenic architecture, pocket gardens, and that unmistakable Hill Country hospitality that makes everyone feel at home. 

Be sure to peek into the centuries-old Helotes Creek for a cool-down or explore the small historic cemetery nearby. Whether you’re in search of Texas charm or looking to kill an hour before dinner, Old Town Helotes brings it—no entry fee required. 

The Rim Greenbelt Trail 

Love shopping… but not the endless mall crowds? The Rim shopping complex north of San Antonio offers a surprise: a scenic greenbelt trail that snakes along Leon Creek, just steps from big-name stores and eateries. Start at the trailhead near The Rim’s movie theater, and you’ll find yourself in a tranquil world shaded by old-growth cottonwoods, with chirping birds and the odd turtle spotting as company. 

The trail’s paved surface makes it easy for all abilities, perfect for strollers, wheelchairs, and bikes. Flowering shrubs and shady rest stops line the way, and after a big day at the Caverns, the gentle sound of running water is a welcome soundtrack. Locals love using the trail for fitness runs, friendly catch-ups, or impromptu wildlife-watching breaks. If you keep your eyes peeled, you’ll spot butterflies, jackrabbits and playful squirrels darting through the brush. 

We recommend packing a picnic or picking up snacks from one of The Rim’s many cafes, then finding a sunny spot by the creek. It’s proof that even in the buzz of North San Antonio, there are moments of serene nature—and enjoying them is, you guessed it, totally free. 

Gruene Historic District Window Shopping & Music 

Step back in time (without opening your purse) in Gruene, the charming 19th-century village founded along the Guadalupe River. Famous for its legendary dance hall and riverside restaurants, Gruene is also wonderful simply to wander. Window-shopping here is an adventure: pass antique shops, rustic barns, candy stores, and art galleries, each with characterful porches, weathered wood, and quirky signage. 

During weekends and festival days, the streets fill with live music—some free, some ticketed—but you can always catch an outdoor musician performing in front of Gruene Hall or another lively porch. Join a group listening outside the famous hall, or simply take in the scenery: old water towers, the 1870s cotton gin building (now a chilled-out wine bar), and the bend in the Guadalupe that draws tubers and kayakers all summer. The village square is always abuzz with laughter, the clink of horseshoes, and the scent of barbecue drifting from restaurant patios. 

For a true Texas memory, grab a rockers’ seat on the town porch, snap a few photos against antique wagons or under vine-draped oaks, and take in a sunset that feels like pure country magic. You’re soaking up Hill Country history and hospitality, all for free. 

McAllister Park 

San Antonio’s McAllister Park is a local favorite for good reason: with over 900 acres of rolling grasslands, shady woods, and cycling trails, it’s where city meets the wild. If you’re traveling with kids or pets, this park is a dream—there are multiple playgrounds and one of the city’s best off-leash dog areas. Nature lovers will want to hit the hiking paths, which zigzag past fields lined with wildflowers in spring, and provide plenty of chances to spot deer, armadillos and even the occasional fox. 

If you love a classic outdoor afternoon, pack a frisbee or football and start a game on the open fields. Bring a picnic and claim a shaded table beneath spreading oaks. With all its space and amenities, McAllister is never too crowded, offering the kind of relaxed, fresh-air vibe you often wish for in the city. Free fitness stations and a disc golf course let you mix up your outdoor adventures, too. 

The best part? The park’s location makes it a convenient “buffer” for anyone transitioning from the Caverns’ wild underground to the city above—just minutes away, but a world apart. Take time to breathe in that Hill Country air before heading back to your hotel. 

Scenic Drive on FM 3009 and Natural Bridge Road 

If you live for those “wow, Texas is beautiful!” moments, don’t miss a drive along FM 3009 and Natural Bridge Road at sunset. This stretch of highway runs past rolling green ranches, limestone bluffs, and wide fields spotted with wildflowers in springtime. Open your windows, cue up a playlist, and enjoy classic Texas Hill Country views—oak mottes, stone fences, and longhorn cattle resting under the trees. 

Several scenic pull-offs give you the chance to snap postcard-worthy photos or just let the kids stretch their legs. Around every bend, there’s something new: sweeping pastureland, dramatic rocky outcrops, and a sense of wide-open sky you’ll only find here. Early evening is magical, but even midday brings hawks wheeling above and the subtle shimmer of heat on the horizon. 

Locals and visitors alike rate this one of the best “secret” experiences near the Caverns. It’s free, it’s easy to access, and it’s the kind of classic Texas adventure that turns into a happy memory the moment you hit the open road. 

 

Natural Bridge Caverns delivers the underground excitement you came for, but it’s the wide variety of free experiences nearby that turn a good San Antonio trip into an unforgettable one. From wildlife spectacles and historic strolls to tranquil parks and scenic drives, this corner of Texas offers something for every explorer—and every budget. Bring your curiosity (and maybe a picnic basket), and get ready to fill your day with local stories, spectacular nature, and the unique Hill Country vibe that keeps visitors coming back for more. 

 

Like that? Check out our guide to the best time to visit San Antonio, and explore the city on a budget.   

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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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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!
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Guide to SeaWorld San Antonio

Experience thrills and underwater spills at SeaWorld San Antonio. It's one of San Antonio's most popular vacation destinations, and for good reason. With a host of white-knuckle rides to enjoy and dazzling animal shows throughout the day, it's fun for the whole family. Part aquarium and part amusement park, you can easily spend hours immersing yourself in all the sea-based activities! Image courtesy of Benny Marty/Shutterstock How to get SeaWorld San Antonio tour tickets? We've got you covered – SeaWorld San Antonio tickets are available with an Explorer Pass. Choose as you go and save money as you do! Includes admission to up to 5 attractions. Tips for visiting SeaWorld San Antonio Bring swimsuits and extra clothes, because, like it or not, you will get wet. Bring your camera to capture the memories. Check their show schedule beforehand to make sure you don't miss a thing. When is the best time to visit SeaWorld San Antonio? Given that San Antonio has blistering summers and very fair winters, you can visit SeaWorld San Antonio any time of year! If you do decide to go in summer, be sure to pack plenty of sunscreen. The last thing you want is sunburn ruining the rest of your vacation. Image courtesy of Alissala/Shutterstock What is there to see and do at SeaWorld San Antonio? At SeaWorld San Antonio, you can wave at dolphins, ride rollercoasters and learn about marine conservation as you immerse yourself in the wonders of the sea. SeaWorld San Antonio highlights Wave Breaker - hop on this jet-ski-style rollercoaster and race 60ft over a lake. It's like riding a jet-ski, but in the air! Great White Rollercoaster - want to know how it feels to be a shark? Try this swerving, corkscrewing monstrosity that propels you forward at 50mph! Steel Eel Rollercoaster – drop 15 stories on this coaster at incredible speed and feel truly weightless at every dip and turn. Sesame Street® Bay of Play® – your kids can meet their favorite characters, clamber over climbing frames, ride kiddie coasters, and play classic carnival games. All that, with an educational twist. Killer Whales Up Close – watch SeaWorld's trainers put on a show as they teach you all about orcas. Sea Lion High is another show with a slightly less deadly creature! What attractions are near SeaWorld San Antonio? In keeping with the watery nature of SeaWorld, you'll also find the San Antonio Aquarium nearby. Full of exotic sea life to meet and greet, it's well worth a visit. If you need to get your steps in, check out the trails at the Government Canyon State Natural Area. Just make sure to wear the appropriate shoes! Image is courtesy of Andrea Izzotti/Shutterstock Where is there to eat nearby? In SeaWorld, you'll find a couple of restaurants to sate your hunger. Steak lovers can go to the Smokehouse Grill, and for some all-you-can-eat goodness, check out Rosita's Cafe Pizza And Pasta Buffet. Outside of the park, you'll find BBQ goodness at Rudy's Country Store and Bar-BQ. In the mood for something spicier? The Jerk Shack's Jamaican dishes have got you covered. Need to know You may experience a wait at the turnstiles. A photo ID is required at the time of redemption, and it must match your pass. Admission may be refused if the photo ID does not match the name on the pass. Your pass is non-transferable. For more information, visit the SeaWorld website. Directions and Address SeaWorld San Antonio 10500 SeaWorld Drive, San Antonio, TX 78251 United States Save on Tickets with Go City Remember, Go City is the best choice for maximum savings and flexibility, which can include SeaWorld San Antonio tickets, plus admission to your choice of other top attractions. You'll make great savings on entry to top museums, tours, and activities vs. paying at the gate. Visit multiple attractions for one low price.
Dom Bewley

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