San Antonio Labor Day Weekend 2019 - 10+ Fun Things to Do in September

By Katie Sagal
Published: July 18, 2024

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

Image of Boat, Boating, Vehicle, Water, Water Sports, Person, Hat, Adult, Male, Man, Female, Woman, 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

Image of Amusement Park, Fun, Roller Coaster, 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

Image of Animal, Zoo, Mammal, Panther, Wildlife, 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

Image of Animal, Dolphin, Mammal, Sea Life, Adult, Female, Person, Woman, Fish, Shark, 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

Image of 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

Image of Outdoors, Shelter, Grass, House, Housing, Villa, Tree, Oak, Sycamore, Cottage, Porch, Lawn, 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

Image of Nature, Outdoors, Scenery, Urban, City, Cityscape, Person, Hotel, Resort, Water, Waterfront, 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

Image of Fountain, Water, Grass, Nature, Outdoors, Park, Chair, Person, City, Tree, Rug, 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

Image of Path, Walkway, Plant, Potted Plant, Sidewalk, Flagstone, City, Road, Street, Urban, Person, Cookware, Pot, Bench, Flower, Flower Arrangement, Floor, Flooring, 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 of People, Person, Concert, Crowd, Outdoors, Shelter, Adult, Female, Woman, Hat, Chair, Furniture, Male, Man, Grass, Handbag, Classroom, Indoors, School, 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.

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Katie Sagal
Go City Travel Expert

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Tower of the Americas or San Antonio Missions? Find Your Best Fit!

San Antonio Missions vs. Tower of the Americas: Which Experience is Right for You?  They’re both San Antonio legends, but they couldn’t be more different—and that’s exactly why you’re in for a treat! Whether you’re drawn to centuries-old stonework and lush gardens, or panoramic city views from hundreds of feet in the air, San Antonio’s got you covered. Today, we’ll break down San Antonio Missions and Tower of the Americas, side-by-side, so you can craft an unforgettable itinerary—whether you’re hungry for culture, adventure, or simply the best selfies in Texas.  The Lowdown  San Antonio Missions:  UNESCO World Heritage Site with four stunning historic missions.  Stroll leafy trails and learn about Spanish colonial history.  Rich local culture, offering architecture, gardens, and church art.  Free to visit and open year-round.  Weekly Mass still held at some missions.  Cycling and walking trails connect the missions—enjoy the outdoors!    Tower of the Americas:  750-foot tower with observation deck and revolving Chart House restaurant.  Sweeping 360° views of the city, day or night.  Touchscreen history exhibits and a thrilling 4D theater ride.  Playful park at the base and Hemisfair fun next door.  Kid-friendly and perfect for date nights or romantic sunsets.  Elevator zooms to the top—accessible for all visitors.  Sounds good, tell me more...  Okay, so which one is most impressive?  Here’s the thing: each is spectacular, and neither disappoints.  The Missions impress with their sense of scope and serenity. Walking beneath giant cottonwoods, you almost feel the centuries of stories woven into the walls. They’re vast, but quiet—full of places to pause, reflect, or just kick back in the grass with a picnic.  Tower of the Americas dazzles with pure height and energy. The elevator ride gives you butterflies, and stepping onto the glassed-in platform brings the city to your feet. Built for the 1968 World’s Fair, the design channels pure mid-century optimism.  In short: one awes with history and hush, the other with altitude and buzz.  Which one is more fun?  Fun comes in many flavors.  The Missions offer a choose-your-own-adventure vibe. Explore at your own speed: rent a bike and connect the whole trail, join a family scavenger hunt, or take in live music and food trucks during one of their regular festivals. Kids will love hunting for lizards or peeking into ancient workshops.  The Tower of the Americas flips on the switch for energetic amusement. The 4D Theater Ride is quirky and memorable, and the outdoor observation deck adds a little adventure to your trip (especially on a breezy day). Families love counting the landmarks; couples often stick around for after-dark city lights.  Both places bring their own sense of adventure—but if you want pure action-packed fun in one stop, the Tower comes out tops.  Which is more beautiful?  This is where personal taste kicks in.  At the Missions, beauty comes in layers: soaring arches against the sky, wildflowers by the San Antonio River, or the play of sunlight over weathered limestone. The details here are exquisite, from ornate church doors to the intricate Rose Window at Mission San José.  But the Tower shows off San Antonio in one dizzying sweep: sunsets bursting over the hills, downtown gleaming in golden evening light, and fireworks from above during city festivals. Internal décor is stylish but designed to frame that view.  Whether you’re drawn to old-world stone and nature, or city lights and photogenic panoramas—beauty is in the eye (and camera lens!) of the beholder.  Which has the better view?  If “view” means “panoramic cityscape,” nothing matches the 750-foot vantage point from Tower of the Americas. Peer through any window and spot the River Walk, Missions, Alamo Dome, or see all the way to the Hill Country on a clear day.  That said, don’t underestimate the calm riverside scenes at the Missions—especially Espada, with its peaceful stretch of trail and the lazy swirl of the San Antonio River cutting through native grasslands.  For the all-in, ‘wow, I never knew San Antonio looked like that!’ effect, the Tower wins. For reflective, natural serenity, the Missions are hard to beat.  How do I get there?  San Antonio Missions:  By bus: VIA Metropolitan Transit Route 42 or 44 connect downtown to Mission Concepción and Mission San José.  Cycling is encouraged, with an easy, safe trail from downtown all the way down the Mission Reach (rental bikes available near Blue Star Arts Complex).  Car parking is free and easy at every Mission.    Tower of the Americas:  VIA Via VIVA Culture Route 11 and other downtown lines stop at Hemisfair Park.  If you’re walking the River Walk, just follow signs south from La Villita and the Convention Center.  Multiple garages and parking lots are nearby (note: paid).  Both attractions are public transport-friendly, and you’re never more than 20 minutes from downtown hotels.  Best choice for families, couples or friends  Families:  The Tower is the clear winner for instant wow-factor—kids adore the rapid elevator ride, and the 4D Theater is a hit with all ages.  The Missions, though, appeal to families who love walking, biking, or picnicking outdoors. Plus, they make history feel fun with junior ranger kits and scavenger hunts.    Couples:  Date night? The Tower’s rotating restaurant and sunset views pretty much guarantee romance, whether it’s an anniversary or just an excuse for cocktails above the clouds.  The Missions set a more serene, soulful tone. Strolling quiet grounds at sunset or joining a guided tour feels cozy and personal.    Friends:  Both attractions work for groups! Head to the Missions for a day of exploring, or to the Tower for an epic happy hour with a skyline backdrop.  I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities?  The Tower shines with its immersive, sensory-driven attractions. The elevator ride lets kids experience the city from above; the 4D Theater mixes film with fun effects like wind and sound. The base of the tower at Hemisfair has splash pads, playgrounds, and public art installations (pack a change of clothes!).  Missions focus more on exploring, running around, and immersing in nature and history—searching for critters or completing junior ranger tasks. If you want pure interactive action, the Tower wins the kid vote.  What’s the accessibility like?  San Antonio Missions:  All four missions have accessible entrances and restrooms.  Paved trails connect parking lots to each site.  Some uneven ground inside historic structures, but many parts are wheelchair friendly.  San José offers the most comprehensive access, including ramps, broad walkways, and accessible exhibits.    Tower of the Americas:  Full ADA compliance throughout.  Elevators and ramps everywhere (getting to the top is quick and easy).  Wheelchairs available at guest services.  4D Theater Ride accessible to all.  Both attractions cater to visitors with mobility needs—you’ll have no problem exploring whichever you choose.  Best lunch spots nearby?  Near San Antonio Missions:  Nicha’s Comida Mexicana This family-run classic sits just up the road from Mission Concepción. You’ll find hearty Tex-Mex, cheesy enchiladas, and a warm, casual vibe. Try the puffy tacos or beef fajitas!  Guenther House Head just north for riverside patio dining and classic Southern breakfasts in a historic flour mill. The cinnamon rolls and biscuits are legendary, and the shady terrace makes for a relaxing midday refuel.  Blue Star Brewing Company Just off the Mission Reach trail, Blue Star combines local craft beers with a fun, artsy bistro environment. Wood-fired pizzas and vibrant salads fuel cyclists and families alike.    Near Tower of the Americas:  Chart House Restaurant The Tower’s own top-floor dining experience pairs steaks, prime rib, and decadent lava cake with ever-changing views. It’s a classic special occasion spot—for dinner, reservations are smart.  Rosario’s Mexican Cafe Y Cantina A beloved Southtown staple, Rosario’s buzzes with energy. Legendary fish tacos and mouth-watering mango margaritas draw locals and visitors, and the modern décor is colorful and lively.  Yard House Fans of casual dining flock here for burgers, flatbreads, and a massive beer list. The spacious, bustling vibe is perfect for groups, and it’s an easy stroll from Hemisfair.  For a quick bite, Hemisfair’s CommonWealth Coffeehouse dishes out mix-and-match breakfast tacos and fresh pastries in a leafy garden setting.  Where are the best photo opportunities?  San Antonio Missions:  Mission Concepción’s frescoed church and sunlit courtyards—early morning light makes colors pop.  The iconic arches and Rose Window at Mission San José—afternoon sun works wonders.  Mission Espada’s tranquil riverbanks—amazing at golden hour, with wildflowers from March to May.    Tower of the Americas:  Observation deck selfies with all of San Antonio laid out below.  Sunset or blue hour (twilight), when the city lights glow and the sky deepens—ideal for couples’ photos or dramatic wide shots.  Hemisfair park for fun, candid snaps of public art, fountains, or the soaring tower itself reflected in nearby ponds.  Bring a wide-angle lens for the Missions, and don’t forget to check weather forecasts to time your Tower visit for maximum clarity.  We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area?  Near San Antonio Missions:  The Friendly Spot An outdoor icehouse in Southtown, with more than 250 bottled beers, picnic tables shaded by oak trees, and a giant outdoor screen showing sports. The vibe: laid-back, dog-friendly, and easy to love.  Bar 1919 For a high-end twist, this ultra-cool Prohibition-style cocktail spot offers strong, creative cocktails—try an Old Fashioned or ask the bartender for their favorite local spirits.    Near Tower of the Americas:  SoHo Wine & Martini Bar This downtown gem boasts a dark, moody interior and a famous roasted marshmallow martini. Perfect for unwinding after a day of fun at the Tower.  Blue Star Brewing Company Just a short hop away, this microbrewery pairs locally made beer with fun, industrial-chic surroundings.  Any other good stuff nearby?  Near San Antonio Missions:  Mission Reach Trail: Stretching for miles along the river, this car-free bike and walking path links all the missions with local art installations, wildflower fields, and perfect picnic spots.    Hot Wells of Bexar: Explore haunting ruins of a 19th-century spa resort, now an offbeat city park with interpretive signs and atmospheric photo ops.    Roosevelt Park: A cool spot to relax in the shade, with a neat public pool and riverside views—great for family downtime.    Near Tower of the Americas:  Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair: One of San Antonio’s most imaginative playgrounds, packed with splash pads, climbing structures, and giant chess for all ages.    La Villita Historic Arts Village: Wander through cobbled lanes studded with art galleries, boutiques, and vibrant public art—pick up souvenirs or just people-watch at a shady café.    River Walk: Just steps away, this world-famous promenade whirls with energy, street performers, and alfresco dining—grab a boat tour or stroll to the next big event!    Both the San Antonio Missions and Tower of the Americas shine in their own way. The Missions bring centuries of history and calm, open spaces to wander while soaking up the culture. The Tower delivers non-stop excitement, unbeatable views, and a taste of mid-century modern fun. Planning the perfect day? Why not do both! Start by exploring the peaceful riverbanks and timeless architecture, then cap things off with a sunset cocktail 750 feet above the city. However you choose, you’ll get an authentic taste (and a great photo album) of San Antonio’s best.    Want more? Check out our guide on where to stay in San Antonio, and what to do in the city’s Downtown.  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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