San Antonio Adventures: SeaWorld® or LEGOLAND® Discovery Center?

Published: June 4, 2026
family ad for sea world san antonio

Planning a trip to San Antonio and torn between two family favorites? Whether you’re craving splashy aquatic action or hands-on building fun, the city offers two crowd-pleasing adventures: SeaWorld® and LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. From dazzling animal encounters and rollercoasters to colorful master builds and creative play zones, we’ve put both to the test. Let’s break down everything you need to know so you can plan the absolute best day for your crew. 

The lowdown 

SeaWorld® San Antonio 

  • Marine-life encounters: orcas, dolphins, sea lions, and more 

  • Thrilling roller coasters (Steel Eel, Wave Breaker) 

  • Family-friendly shows and live performances 

  • Splashy water park (Aquatica available seasonally) 

  • Animal feedings and interactive touch pools 

  • Lush park landscapes and shady spots for breaks 

 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center San Antonio 

  • Build and play zones with millions of LEGO® bricks 

  • MINILAND® San Antonio in miniature LEGO® form 

  • Two themed rides and a 4D cinema with immersive effects 

  • Master Model Builder workshops and competitions 

  • Soft play zone for younger kids 

  • Café serving snacks and treats 

Sounds good, tell me more... 

SeaWorld® San Antonio

SeaWorld® San Antonio feels like a blue world of wonder where you can get up close to marine life, watch dolphins do mid-air tricks, and even touch stingrays. The park’s blend of animal education and high-octane rides means no one gets bored. You might find yourself zipping through the air on the Texas Stingray coaster one moment and then soaking up an educational live show featuring majestic orcas the next. 

The vibe is part nature preserve, part thrill ride, all wrapped up in a setting that feels both wild and welcoming. There’s also something satisfyingly Texan about the huge spaces, shady oak trees, and sweeping vistas across the park. 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center San Antonio brings pure creative chaos… in the best way! Expect vibrant colors, laughter, and young architects racing to finish their brick towers. You’ll discover cool interactive exhibits, from building your own race car to watching San Antonio’s skyline reconstructed in LEGO® bricks inside MINILAND®. The 4D cinema offers short, lively films with sprays of mist and wind, while soft play keeps little ones happy if they need a break from building. 

There’s always a buzz of energy here, with Master Model Builder workshops and creative challenges sparking friendly competition. The ambiance is cheerful and playful — the smiles are as plentiful as the LEGO® bricks. 

Okay, so which one is most impressive? 

It depends on what impresses your crew! SeaWorld® stuns with the scale and spectacle of its animals—there’s nothing like seeing an orca leap from the water or hearing the splash of a sea lion show. Kids look amazed, adults get a dose of nostalgia, and the sheer size of the park means there’s always more to discover. 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, meanwhile, wows with creativity. Every wall bursts with color, and the attention to detail in the MINILAND® displays churns up plenty of “how did they do that?” moments. Watching little faces light up as they bring their builds to life is irresistibly fun. 

Which one is more fun? 

Both pack serious fun, but in totally different ways. SeaWorld® gets hearts pounding with roller coasters, splash zones, animal feedings, and brilliant live shows. If your gang loves variety and thrills, it’s a crowd-pleaser that keeps everyone moving. 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center rocks for hands-on creativity and imagination-fuelled play. There’s something joyful about stacking up towers, designing vehicles, and then watching them race—or crash! It’s part theme attraction, part ultimate playroom. 

If your group is all about rides, animal antics, and splashing around, SeaWorld® pulls ahead. For families with LEGO®-mad kids (or grown-ups who love bricks), LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is non-stop giggles. 

Which is more beautiful? 

SeaWorld® dazzles with its lush grounds, sparkling pools, and impressive animal habitats. Wide walking paths wind under oak trees; you’ll spot vivid flowers, tranquil water features, and plenty of shady benches for resting. The habitats blend into the landscaping seamlessly, making every stroll feel like a walk on the wild side. 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center’s beauty lies in its creativity and color. The attention to detail in each LEGO® creation—the tiny River Walk boats in MINILAND®, the expressive faces on minifigure models—offers huge visual appeal, especially through the eyes of a child (or a devoted LEGO® fan). 

Which has the better view? 

SeaWorld® offers panoramic park views, especially from the rides. Hop on the Steel Eel for an awesome bird’s eye glimpse of the park and beyond. Stroll through the park’s winding paths, and you’ll find plenty of photo-worthy vistas—especially near the orca stadium or overlooking Aquatica’s sparkling pools. 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center offers the unique sight of San Antonio in miniature. In MINILAND®, you’ll get a builder’s-eye view of the Alamo, Tower Life Building, and River Walk—all recreated with jaw-dropping detail. For sweeping cityscapes, though, SeaWorld®’s open-air setting takes the lead. 

How do I get there? 

SeaWorld® San Antonio Located on the city’s far west side at 10500 SeaWorld Drive, about 16 miles from downtown. You can catch VIA Metropolitan Transit’s Route 64, which stops close to the park. Parking is ample if you’re driving. 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center You’ll find this brick paradise inside the Shops at Rivercenter (849 E Commerce St), right in the heart of downtown San Antonio. VIA buses, the VIVA Centro line, and River Walk boat taxis all stop nearby. And since it’s downtown, parking garages, bike share, and hotels are all within walking distance. 

Best choice for families, couples or friends 

Families will find both options fantastic! SeaWorld® appeals to a wide age range, from adventurous tweens to animal-loving tots. LEGOLAND® Discovery Center skews younger (ideal for ages 3-10), and is designed for family playtime. 

Couples may enjoy SeaWorld®’s romantic strolls, impressive animal shows, and opportunities for quieter moments among scenic landscapes. LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is fun for LEGO® enthusiast couples, but if you’re seeking a less energetic atmosphere, SeaWorld® pulls ahead. 

Groups of friends (especially those who love creative competition or theme rides) will have a blast at either spot. SeaWorld® has edge-of-your-seat thrills; LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is perfect for friendly build-offs. 

I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities? 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center is built for hands-on fun. Kids grab bricks and start building right away—whether it’s making cars to race, towering structures, or imaginative sculptures. Regular workshops with a Master Model Builder, as well as interactive rides and a soft play area, keep the action non-stop. 

**SeaWorld® also offers plenty of interactive options—**including stingray touch pools, shark encounters, and animal feeding zones—but the activities are spaced out between shows and rides. If constant hands-on engagement is your goal, LEGOLAND® Discovery Center wins this round. 

What’s the accessibility like? 

SeaWorld® is wheelchair accessible throughout, with family restrooms, accessible shuttle transportation, and rental strollers and wheelchairs. Most shows have dedicated accessible seating, and the park map clearly marks level paths versus those with steeper grades. Companion restrooms and service animal relief areas are available, too. 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center, housed inside a shopping mall, is fully accessible to wheelchairs and strollers. Elevators, accessible restrooms, and wide play spaces make it easy for everyone to enjoy the fun. Just let staff know if you need any additional assistance. 

Best lunch spots nearby? 

Near SeaWorld®: 

SeaWorld® itself offers plenty of dining options inside the park, from pizza to BBQ. The Shamu Smokehouse is a crowd-pleaser, with smoky brisket and stacked sandwiches. 

Dani’s Bar & Grill (just outside the entrance) serves Tex-Mex plates and burgers in a casual, airy setting—perfect for a relaxing lunch or snack after your SeaWorld® adventure. 

Ray’s Pizzaria delivers fresh, budget-friendly pies in a family-friendly atmosphere just a few minutes from the park. 

Near LEGOLAND® Discovery Center: 

Yard House inside Shops at Rivercenter dishes up upscale pub fare—think truffle fries, poke nachos, and an impressive beer menu—with both indoor and patio river views. 

Ghirardelli Ice Cream & Chocolate Shop sits nearby for a sweet treat—try their famous hot fudge sundaes. 

Maria Mia Mexican Bistro has colorful décor, River Walk seating, and sizzling fajitas that never disappoint. 

Food Hall at Bottling Dept. in nearby Pearl packs local gourmet bites under one roof, from ramen and burgers to fruit-forward paletas. 

Where are the best photo opportunities? 

SeaWorld®: 

Snap the trainers and orcas at the One Ocean show—sit near the front for dramatic splash shots. 

The dolphin cove offers bright, clear water for action photos as dolphins leap. 

Take a selfie on the Steel Eel coaster, or with the lush park landscaping as your backdrop. Early morning and golden hour in the evening give the best lighting for water shots. 

LEGOLAND® Discovery Center: 

MINILAND® practically begs for close-up photos—capture LEGO® versions of the Alamo, River Walk boats, and colorful city lights. 

Build your own LEGO® figure and snap a portrait. 

The rainbow-bright LEGO® sculptures throughout the play zones make for energetic, fun backdrops. Early in the day, crowds are smallest for getting those perfect family shots. 

We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area? 

SeaWorld® area: 

Cork Bar at Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort nearby is a lovely spot for a classy glass of wine, regional brews, or creative signature cocktails (don’t miss their Hill Country Mule, spiked with fresh ginger and local honey). 

The Rustic—a short drive away—delivers top-notch margaritas and Texas craft beers in a folksy-chic setting, often with live music. 

Near LEGOLAND® Discovery Center: 

Esquire Tavern is a River Walk legend: the longest wooden bar in Texas, vintage vibes, and a knockout old fashioned. 

Mad Dogs British Pub offers riverside seating and budget-friendly pints. Their Pimm’s Cup is a refreshing treat under the Texas sun. 

Any other good stuff nearby? 

Near SeaWorld®: 

Aquatica Water Park (same site) is perfect for a second day of splashy fun. 

Government Canyon State Natural Area offers hiking and dinosaur tracks, just a short drive away. Locals swear by the views from the Overlook Trail. 

Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa makes for a dreamy overnight stay, with lazy rivers and a world-class spa. 

 

Near LEGOLAND® Discovery Center: 

The Alamo is the city’s most storied site, just a 3-minute stroll away—step back in time and walk the grounds for free. 

San Antonio River Walk weaves through the city with charming bridges and shaded patios. Try a river cruise for a fresh perspective. 

Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair—just beyond downtown—is a favorite with locals for its play fountains and public art. 

 

In San Antonio, fun comes in all shapes and sizes—whether you’re diving into the aquatic wonders of SeaWorld® or stacking towers at LEGOLAND® Discovery Center. Both offer unforgettable moments, loads of smiles, and memories ready to build. No matter which you choose, your San Antonio adventure is off to a splashy (or brick-tastic) start. 

 

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

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 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! 
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Things to Do in San Antonio in Winter 2019 - December & January Activities & More

Despite the warm weather, San Antonio always has lots of fun and festive activities and things to do in the winter. If you’re looking for things to do in San Antonio in Winter 2019-2020, check out our list of some of the best holiday activities and attractions. Save on Winter Attraction Admission Regular admission to a number of these attractions is available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Choose as you go from 20 top attractions and save up to 40% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. See all available San Antonio, attractions & prices. Please note, some of these special Winter events may be separately ticketed and not available on the Explorer Pass. Holiday in the Park at Six Flags Fiesta Texas Where: Six Flags Fiesta Texas When: November 23, 2019 - January 5, 2020 You'll get to meet Santa, go on classic thrill rides, stroll through millions of twinkling lights, and more at Holiday in the Park. Stroll through San Antonio Mingle, where you can meet seasonal characters, marvel at a giant Christmas Tree, and see the city transformed into a magical holiday landscape. You can even walk through real snow in the Winter Wonderland. What's more, snap photos at the Magic of the Season Ornament, a giant tree ornament lit up with spectacular lights and The Heart of the Holidays, a festive musical showing at the Rockville High Theater. Getting in: Six Flags Fiesta Texas tickets are an included Premium Attraction option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Christmas Celebration at SeaWorld San Antonio Zoo Lights at the San Antonio Zoo Old West Christmas Light Fest Remember to Save on Attraction Admission So there you have it. Our list of a few things to do in San Antonio in the winter, including holiday events, other seasonal activities in December, January, and more. Remember, some of these options are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass, where you can save up to 40% on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Please note, the winter events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Explorer Pass. We hope you plan to add a few of these fun options to your winter vacation itinerary.
Casey Makovich
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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

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