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.

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
Go City Travel Expert

Continue reading

San Antonio
Blog

San Antonio Memorial Day Weekend

Visiting this Texas city is a great choice for Memorial Day weekend - San Antonio has a bustling river walk area, exciting parades and plenty of historical attractions.
Katie Sagal
alligator at the san antonio zoo
Blog

San Antonio Zoo vs SEA LIFE: Which Adventure Fits Your Tribe?

Meet San Antonio’s Animal Attractions: Zoo vs SEA LIFE  San Antonio is every animal lover’s dream playground, where you can make eye contact with a giraffe in the morning and trace the lazy swirl of a stingray by afternoon. If you're torn between an open-air wildlife safari or diving beneath the waves—without getting your feet wet—San Antonio Zoo and SEA LIFE San Antonio both promise a world of discovery. We’re here to break down what makes each adventure unique, fun, and unmissable, plus offer local tips to help you plan a day you’ll talk about long after you’ve shaken the sand—or dust—off your shoes.  The Lowdown  San Antonio Zoo:  Over 3,500 animals across more than 750 species, from African elephants to playful otters.  Sprawling, open-air park with lush landscaping and themed habitats.  Kid zone, butterfly garden, mini train, and carousel.  Prides itself on wildlife conservation and educational programs.  Family-friendly events year-round—zoo nights to Halloween festivals.    SEA LIFE San Antonio:  Immersive aquarium experience in downtown San Antonio inside the Shops at Rivercenter.  Stroll through a 50-foot ocean tunnel beneath sharks, rays, and turtles.  Hands-on touch pools for interactive learning.  Colorful seahorse kingdoms, jellyfish displays, and coral reefs.  Geared toward younger kids and adults who love up-close aquatic wonders.  Sounds Good, Tell Me More...  Okay, So Which One Is Most Impressive?  Both the zoo and SEA LIFE Aquarium pack a serious wow factor—but the feeling you get from each is pretty different.  At the zoo, the scale and variety stand out. You’re rubbing shoulders with creatures from every continent, and every path leads to a different adventure. Giraffes peer down serenely and lions laze in the sun. The natural outdoor setting heightens the drama, making every animal encounter feel authentic.  SEA LIFE wins in the atmosphere department. Stepping into the walk-through tunnel, surrounded by sharks and rays, you feel a sense of wonder you can’t quite match anywhere else in town. The mastery of aquatic environments—the odd shapes of the tanks, the dance of light underwater, the sense of being submerged—feels surreal.  Our verdict? You’ll be talking about both for a long time. The zoo impresses with scale and diversity; the aquarium dazzles with immersive design and up-close ocean magic.  Which One Is More Fun?  Let’s be honest, fun has different meanings for different squads.  Families with kiddos love the interactivity at both spots. At the zoo, you’ve got animal feedings, the train ride, a butterfly house, and loads of imaginative play zones. Pacing yourself turns any day into a choose-your-own-adventure.  SEA LIFE feels a little like an indoor treasure hunt. Little hands dart into touch pools. Parents (and big kids) compete to spot the rarest creatures, and touchscreen exhibits challenge your ocean knowledge. Plus, it's indoors—making it a carefree choice in the heat or rain.  Friends looking for a quirky day out, couples enjoying a low-key date, or solo explorers hunting Instagram gold—both win points. The zoo is sprawling and social, perfect for a leisurely day with pit stops for snacks and stories. The aquarium is concise, focused, and atmospheric—great for lingering, chatting, and losing track of time.  Which Is More Beautiful?  Beauty’s in the eye of the explorer. The zoo’s lush tropical landscaping and scatter of wildflowers bring pops of color to every corner. Bold, leafy trees shade winding walkways, and themed areas like the Giraffe Savannah and Butterfly Garden are charming all year.  SEA LIFE, though, is a jewel box of blue. Light ripples across coral reefs; electrifying colors from fish flicks and shimmers in every tank. The way sunlight (or carefully-designed lighting) streams through the water is hypnotic—a gentle, peaceful environment that feels miles from city life just outside.  For nature-lovers, the zoo’s outdoor beauty and botanical touches are irresistible. For those wowed by the wonders of the ocean, the aquarium’s dreamy, colored world is pure delight.  Which Has the Better View?  Want city panoramas or nature’s up-close drama?  San Antonio Zoo sits inside Brackenridge Park, which means sweeping green views, rustling old trees, and historic stone bridges. The animal enclosures, from towering giraffes to chattering monkeys, offer unique vantage points for people-watching as well as animal spotting. Take the Zoo Train for a bonus ride past duck ponds and regal oaks—a peaceful escape in the heart of the city.  SEA LIFE’s best view comes underwater, literally. Walk through the ocean tunnel and you’re surrounded, 360-degrees, by marine life and coral scenes. While you won’t get rooftop cityscapes here, the aquatic “window into another world” is a show-stealer.  How Do I Get There?  San Antonio Zoo: Found inside Brackenridge Park at 3903 N. St Mary’s Street, the zoo’s easy to access from anywhere in central San Antonio. Hop on the VIA Metropolitan Transit system: Bus 9, 10, and 11 all pull up near the zoo entrance. The zoo is a quick 10-minute Uber or Lyft ride from downtown hotels (read: hassle-free with kiddos or grandparents in tow). There’s ample paid parking if you drive, plus nearby bike racks.  SEA LIFE San Antonio: Smack dab in downtown at Shops at Rivercenter (849 E Commerce St), SEA LIFE couldn’t be simpler for city explorers. VIA Bus routes 24, 25, and 26 stop directly at the mall, making public transport smooth and easy. Strolling from the Alamo, it’s less than a five-minute walk, so no need to wrangle street traffic or park far away. Uber and Lyft drop-offs at the mall’s Commerce Street entrance are a breeze, too, if your feet are tired after sightseeing.  Best Choice for Families, Couples, or Friends  Families: The zoo is sprawling, open, and bursting with activities—feeding lorikeets, hopping on the carousel, and running wild in play areas. The aquarium provides a bite-sized adventure for tinier legs or stroller-pushers, plus you can duck out for a snack or nap-break at the mall.  Couples: Date at the zoo? Grab ice cream, wander leafy trails, and cap it off with sunset over the flamingo pond. Dreamier still: date night at SEA LIFE, strolling hand-in-hand under glowing tanks, then dining riverside nearby. Both offer tons of moments for connection and laughter.  Friends: Group selfie by the elephant enclosure or racing for the shark tunnel? Either way, you’ll be in for hours of photos, laughs, and cool stories. The zoo is sprawling and perfect for a day-long hang. The aquarium, with its proximity to River Walk bars and restaurants, makes for a lively afternoon before a night out on the town.  I’ve Got Fidgety Kids to Entertain—Which Has More ‘Hands On’ Activities?  At San Antonio Zoo, hands-on is the name of the game. Feed giraffes, toss fish to sea lions, brush goats, and burn off energy on playgrounds designed for climbing and splashing. Daily zookeeper chats and animal feed times give everyone a chance to ask questions and get even closer.  SEA LIFE wins major points for its touch pool. How often do you get to actually feel a sea star wiggle? Educational stations dot the center, so there’s always something to poke, prod, or learn if curiosity strikes. Coloring stations and quiz trails keep little brains buzzing from start to finish.  What’s the Accessibility Like?  San Antonio Zoo: Paths are wide, paved, and wheelchair accessible, and the train can accommodate strollers and mobility devices. Family restrooms and baby care stations are sprinkled throughout, and parking signage leads you to ADA spaces close to the entrance. Service animals are welcome.  SEA LIFE San Antonio: The entire venue is on one floor—fully stroller and wheelchair-friendly. Elevators and ramps are available if needed. The well-lit signs and wide paths mean nobody should feel hemmed in, even on busy days. The aquarium is committed to making underwater adventure easy for everyone.  Best Lunch Spots Nearby?  Near San Antonio Zoo:  Smoke Shack BBQ: Just three blocks away, this casual, upbeat joint is all about Texas brisket sandwiches, sausage plates, and sides like creamy mac ’n’ cheese. Outdoorsy picnic tables, brisket-fueled laughs.  W.D. Deli: A local favorite for sandwiches stacked sky-high—including a zingy chicken salad and chocolate fudge cake. The shady patio is made for unwinding after hours of animal watching.  Bakery Lorraine at the DoSeum: Gourmet sandwiches, dreamy quiches, and pastries worth a detour. Bright, modern, and perfect for a budget-friendly bite.  Near SEA LIFE San Antonio:  Range by Jason Dady: This upscale steakhouse inside Rivercenter glows with city views; order the Tomahawk ribeye or shrimp and grits for a splurge-worthy lunch.  Yard House: With over 100 beers on tap and an American comfort menu (try the truffle burger!), you’ll recharge with a view of River Walk hustle.  Food Court at Shops at Rivercenter: Grab pizza, tacos, or noodles if you’re traveling with picky eaters or just want a snack on the run.  Schilo’s Delicatessen: A San Antonio classic nearby with old-school German-style sandwiches and legendary homemade root beer.  Where Are the Best Photo Opportunities?  San Antonio Zoo: Don’t leave without an elephant selfie, a photo under the arching ‘San Antonio Zoo’ sign, or a goofy snap on the classic zoo train. The Butterfly Garden, packed with flowers and fluttering wings, glows at golden hour—dreamy for aspiring photographers. Giraffe feeding and flamingo pond at sunset both win for social media gold.  SEA LIFE San Antonio: That ocean tunnel is a must for 360-degree snaps—morning lighting makes the tanks vibrant for crisp shots. Betta fish and seahorse tanks burst with color, while floor-to-ceiling coral exhibits catch the blue glow perfectly. Look for special “photo op” signs near the jellyfish—this backdrop is unbeatable for neon-toned selfies.  We’re Finished and Thirsty—Is There a Decent Bar in the Area?  After the Zoo:  Tycoon Flats: Craft beer, juicy burgers, and shady patio vibes (try the Texas Blonde Ale).  The Modernist: An intimate cocktail lounge, a few blocks downtown, that mixes up custom drinks based on your mood—bartenders here are magicians. Ask for the smoked old fashioned for a taste of neighborhood style.  After SEA LIFE (Downtown & River Walk):  The Esquire Tavern: Known for its dazzling art deco bar, house margaritas, and “Paris, Texas” cocktails (tequila, aperol, passionfruit, chili salt). Cozy, cool, and full of history.  The Bar at Bohanan’s: White-glove old Texas service, carved-wood interiors, and one of the best old fashioneds in the city. If you’re hunting live jazz and whiskey neat, you’ll find plenty of style—and potent pours.  Any Other Good Stuff Nearby?  Near San Antonio Zoo:  The DoSeum: San Antonio’s hands-on children's museum, exploding with STEM, art, and outdoor play.  Japanese Tea Garden: Just a stone’s throw from the zoo, this lush garden features koi ponds and wandering peacocks—a free, tranquil detour perfect for photos.  Brackenridge Park: Stroll trails along the riverbank, ride the mini-train, or picnic under ancient cypress trees.  Sunken Garden Theater: Check the calendar for open-air concerts and festivals all year.    Near SEA LIFE San Antonio:  LEGOLAND® Discovery Center: Imagination gets a workout at the interactive indoor LEGO® playground with build zones, rides, and 4D cinema.  River Walk: Stroll riverbanks lined with bars, patios, and live music, day or night.  The Alamo: Just steps away, this world-famous historical site is great for history buffs and families alike.  La Villita Historic Arts Village: Pop next door to browse local boutiques, folk art, and cozy coffee shops, or grab an empanada from a street vendor.    San Antonio Zoo and SEA LIFE San Antonio both shine for animal-lovers, families, and fun seekers. Whether you crave the call of the wild—rhinos, giraffes, playful otters—or the gentle sway of jellyfish and the movement of sleek sharks, San Antonio has your perfect animal adventure. Urban explorers will love SEA LIFE’s location and oceanic sparkle; park wanderers will find joy in the zoo’s leafy trails and hands-on encounters. Truth is, you can’t lose—just follow the wild, or the waves, to your kind of awesome day out.    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! 
River Header
Blog

Romantic Things to Do in San Antonio

Good news: San Antonio might just be the most romantic destination in Texas. It's bursting with excitement, date ideas, and lovely restaurants.
Go City Expert

Have a 5% discount, on us!

Sign up to our newsletter and receive exclusive discounts, trip inspiration and attraction updates straight to your inbox.