Things to do in Downtown San Antonio

By Dom Bewley
Published: July 18, 2024
things to do in downtown san antonio

Are you alone? Is life making you lonely? Well, what are you doing? Don't let your problems surround you. And why is that? Well, because you can always go downtown, of course! Leave all your troubles behind and go where the action is.

Downtown is often the most bustling part of a city, and San Antonio is no different. Here, you'll find plenty to see and do, and most of it is within walking distance. So, what things are there to do in downtown San Antonio? Read on and find out.

Including:

  • The Amazing Mirror Maze
  • San Antonio Museum of Art
  • E-Bike rental
  • Scavenger Hunt by Foot
  • San Antonio Zoo
  • and more!
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Get spooked on a San Antonio Walking Historical Ghost Tour

Let's kick things off with some spooky goings-on in downtown San Antonio. Did you know that it's one of America's most haunted cities? Well, now you do! Explore some of San Antonio's rich and gruesome history on this walking ghost tour of the downtown area.

This two-hour walking tour takes you around San Antonio's most historic neighborhood, where you'll learn about modern paranormal investigation techniques, different types of hauntings, and the creepy tales that go with them!

Led by a trained ghostographer (we may have made that up), they'll take you to various haunted locations around the city, fill you in on all the history you could want, as well as some taller tales of the paranormal. And don't worry, it doesn't get too graphic. People of all ages are welcome on this eerie descent into San Antonio's past.

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Get confused at the Amazing Mirror Maze

You know those films that include mirror mazes? Usually, they're horror films, and it usually doesn't end well for the escapee. Well, why not try escaping from downtown's very own mirror maze, minus the imminent danger, of course.

At the Amazing Mirror Maze, you'll be immersed in mirrors - a whole maze of them, to be exact. Who knows what will be around every corner. Will it be you, or will it be you? Aren't mirrors fun? Plus, thanks to the 3D glasses you'll get on entry, the maze comes to life in three dimensions. Can you escape the horror of constantly looking at your withered face? Only time, and a visit, will tell.

But wait, there's more! Once you're done, try your hand at the Vault Laser Challenge. Your task? Make it through a hall of lasers. The challenge? You can't break a single one of them. Do your best Tom Cruise, and see if you'll survive.

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Get inspired at the San Antonio Museum of Art

After all that excitement, why not calm your body and open your mind to some inspiring artwork? If that sounds like just the ticket, head on down to the San Antonio Museum of Art and find over 30,000 artistic artifacts from more than 5000 years of history.

The museum houses several collections, including Egyptian, Greek, and Roman antiquities, Latin American artwork, contemporary art, and Asian art. There's even a particular gallery dedicated to Texan art. Yep, even cowboys have a sensitive side.

For cultural fun, the San Antonio Museum of Art is one of the best things to do in downtown San Antonio.

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Get the heart pumping with a one-day E-Bike rental

Want to get the blood pumping to those measly muscles as you explore San Antonio's downtown? Thanks to the brilliance of technological progress, you can now hop on a two-wheeler powered by the god Zeus himself. They're called E-bikes, and they're brilliant.

Thankfully, San Antonio has docking stations all over the city, so you're never too far from a charge. And if it all gets too much and the sweat's stinging your eyes, simply take a load off, dock the bike, and pick it up when you've toweled off! Freedom! Activity!

And while you're atop your two-wheeled steed, why not explore the Mission Reach trail? This sixteen-mile roundtrip is the city's largest ecological restoration project and the best way to access the UNESCO World Heritage site, the San Antonio Missions. Or head downtown and museum-hop your way through the city. Options!

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Get lost on a Scavenger Hunt by Foot

Want to see all the city's most significant landmarks, explore its many streets and corners, and have fun doing so? Then boy, do we have just the thing for you. Get involved with this scavenger hunt as you walk, pace, and run around San Antonio!

Solve clues, complete challenges, and keep the host of the game updated with your progress. All you need is a phone with a camera, and you're good to go. Meet up at Hemisphere Park at the large mosaic panther, learn the rules from the mysterious host, and then off you trot.

Fun for the whole family, if you've been forced to bring them on your vacation.

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Get historical at the Buckhorn Saloon and Texas Ranger Museum

And finally, no list of the best things to do in downtown San Antonio would be complete without a touch of cowboy. No, you won't need a horse riding license, if they even exist. All you'll need is your two feet, a head, and the directions to the Buckhorn Saloon and the Texas Ranger Museum!

At the ol' Buckhorn, you'll find hundreds of artifacts from local wildlife discovered during the old west days. Have you ever seen a 10,000-year-old prehistoric elk? No, you have not. Go here, and you will!

And then, at the Texas Ranger Museum, you'll learn about the history of these law enforcers as they attempted to civilize the desert. You'll also see authentic ranger artifacts like weapons, munitions, badges, and clothing.

If the frontier calls to you, and you suspect you experienced it in a past life, it's a must-visit!

And those are our picks of the best things to do in downtown San Antonio! If you're looking for more fun things to do outside of the downtown area, check out Go City. With our Explorer Pass, you can see San Antonio's best bits at your own pace!

Dom Bewley
Go City Travel Expert

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San Antonio Zoo or Botanical Garden? Plan Your Best Day!

When you’re planning a trip to San Antonio, it’s not long before someone suggests the city’s beloved Zoo or its dazzling Botanical Garden. Both pack a punch when it comes to big experiences, but they’re adventures in totally different flavors. Whether you’re seeking close animal encounters, a peaceful garden stroll, excitement for the kiddos, or inspiration for your Instagram, San Antonio’s dynamic duo delivers in spades. Dive in as we compare experiences, atmosphere, food, accessibility, and more to help you tailor your perfect San Antonio day.  The Lowdown  Here’s a quick-fire comparison to give you the highlights of both the San Antonio Zoo and the San Antonio Botanical Garden:  San Antonio Zoo  Home to over 750 species and 3,500 animals  Set in historic Brackenridge Park, just north of downtown  Famous for immersive exhibits like Africa Live! and Amazonia  Interactive giraffe feeding and petting zoo, plus a carousel  Butterfly house and reptile house offer close-up encounters  Seasonal events like Zoo Boo and Zoo Lights turn things up a notch    San Antonio Botanical Garden  Features 38 gorgeous acres packed with themed gardens and pavilions  Standouts include the Texas Native Trail, Lucile Halsell Conservatory, and culinary garden  Visitor favorite: an epic family adventure garden with splash areas and nature play zones  World-class plant collection from desert succulents to tranquil Japanese-inspired spaces  Weekly classes, foodie events, and rotating art installations  Picture-perfect spots for relaxing, reading, or snapping photos  Sounds good, tell me more...  Okay, so which one is most impressive?  Honestly, it depends what you find impressive—size, activities, or pure “wow” factor! The Zoo feels lively and immersive: roaring lions, dazzling tropical fish, and close-up moments with exotic birds. You leave with the rush of sharing space with creatures from all over the planet.  The Botanical Garden, by contrast, wows with refinement and serenity. Its series of interconnected gardens feels a bit like a botanical world tour, with stunning architecture and dramatic plant displays. The walk-through desert house stands out: towering cacti reach for the ceiling while waterfalls tumble inside the rainforest dome. Both provide moments that’ll keep you talking for days.  Which one is more fun?  Younger visitors and animal lovers won’t want to miss the Zoo. There’s so much activity—feeding giraffes, hopping on the train, watching penguins chase toys. Special programs like behind-the-scenes tours and up-close animal meet-and-greets add a thrill, and the playground zones let kids burn off energy between exhibits.  The Botanical Garden is about gentle fun—think splashing in the adventure garden, spotting butterflies, and discovering kid-sized hideaways. It’s perfect for travelers who want to slow down, picnic, or simply soak up the sunshine in beautiful surroundings.  Which is more beautiful?  “Beautiful” is in the eye of the beholder, but there’s no question the Botanical Garden puts on a show for all the senses. Wide paths wind through fields of wildflowers, dramatic glass-conservatory domes glint in the sun, and blossom-filled trellises invite you to linger. Each area reveals a new palette: just when you’ve finished with cacti and agaves, you enter a Japanese pocket garden with placid water and arching maples.  The Zoo offers its own special beauty—in the sleek elegance of big cats, the vibrant feathers of tropical birds, and the lush tropical landscaping that creates a habitat for every creature. If your version of “beautiful” includes the sparkly-eyed gaze of a giraffe, there’s nowhere better.  Which has the better view?  For sweeping city views, the Botanical Garden is tough to beat. The hilltop vantage provides a lush foreground of garden splendor with the San Antonio skyline shimmering behind. The conservatory domes, reflecting pools, and fields of bluebonnets pop best during golden hour or early morning.  At the Zoo, the best views are more intimate—the underwater window into the hippo habitat, or the treetops of Africa Live!, where you might spot a lemur perched high above. The Zoo immerses you in animal habitats rather than expansive vistas, but there are leafy corners everywhere, and the Brackenridge Park setting is soothing and green.  How do I get there?  San Antonio Zoo: Located in Brackenridge Park, just north of downtown. The VIVA Culture bus (Route 11) stops right at the Zoo’s front gate, and various VIA Metropolitan Transit routes cover the area. Light rail isn’t in play here, but bikeshare drop-offs abound.  San Antonio Botanical Garden: Slightly farther east but still close to downtown, at 555 Funston Place. Bus 14 delivers you to the entrance, and plenty of free parking awaits if you’re driving. It’s a short Uber from the Pearl or River Walk if you’d like to skip the bus.  Best choice for families, couples or friends  Families: Kids absolutely glow at both. At the Zoo, they’ll love the carousel, playground, hands-on animal encounters, and seasonal events. The Botanical Garden’s Family Adventure Garden is packed with areas for climbing, splashing, and creative play, making it an easy win for kids who need to roam.  Couples: The Botanical Garden is our pick for quiet walks or a romantic escape. Peaceful trails, garden swings, and pretty viewpoints offer plenty of privacy for two. If you love to learn together, check out their culinary or gardening classes.  Friends: Both work, depending on what your group loves. The Zoo offers group programs and can be a hilarious bonding experience as you all try to spot every animal before closing. The Botanical Garden is ideal for a laid-back day, especially if you catch an outdoor concert or garden art exhibit.  I’ve got fidgety kids to entertain – which has more ‘hands on’ activities?  The Zoo pulls ahead here. In addition to animal feedings and up-close encounters, there’s the Kiddie Park, the Zootennial carousel, and reptile house to get hands-on with texture displays. Don’t forget train rides around the park—an activity unto itself.  The Botanical Garden’s Family Adventure Garden is no slouch: nature play areas, splash pads in summer, and “play in the dirt” zones offer hands-on fun, especially for kids under ten. Both venues make it easy for little hands to stay busy, but animal encounters at the Zoo are in another league for interactive fun.  What’s the accessibility like?  Zoo: The paths are mostly flat and paved, with accessible bathrooms throughout. Sensory bags are available at Guest Services to support neurodivergent visitors, and service animals (except in certain restricted areas) are welcome.  Botanical Garden: Excellent paved trails make most gardens easy to explore with strollers, wheelchairs, or mobility scooters (available for rent). Detailed maps highlight accessible routes, and plenty of shaded seating is dotted everywhere for quick rests.  Both score high on accessibility, but it’s always a good idea to check the latest updates online before your visit.  Best lunch spots nearby?  If adventure makes you hungry, there’s no shortage of great places to refuel:  Near the Zoo:  The Zoo’s own Beastro Café features kid-friendly fare and shaded patio dining with peeks of Brackenridge Park.  Smoke Shack BBQ (West Grayson Street): For stick-to-your-ribs Texan barbecue, their brisket sandwich is a hit. The vibe is relaxed, the sides are generous, and the smoked meats are rave-worthy.  The Pearl District (a short drive south): The Bottling Dept Food Hall lets you choose from gourmet burgers, ramen, and more—all in a cool urban setting with indoor and outdoor seating.  Near the Botanical Garden:  Rosella Coffee House (Avenue A): Light-filled, modern, and just a 7-minute drive from the gardens. Their avocado toast comes loaded, and the specialty lattes pair perfectly.  Smoke Shack’s Little Red Barn Steakhouse: Classic, family-friendly, and serving up huge steaks and fried shrimp in a retro Texan atmosphere.  Bakery Lorraine at the Pearl: If you make your way to the Pearl, this local fave does a stellar quiche and mouthwatering pastries. The Parisian-style décor and views of the plaza can’t be beat.  For budget bites, the Witte Museum Café (just west of the Zoo) is a good pick for sandwiches and salads.  Where are the best photo opportunities?  At the Zoo: Snap a selfie with the friendly giraffes during feeding time, or go wide-angle for shots of flamingos in their lagoon. The colorful carousel, jungle-themed playground, and animal statues near the entrance are fun for family pics. Late afternoon brings soft lighting and fewer crowds, perfect for animal photos.  At the Botanical Garden: Don’t miss sunrise shots from the Texas Hill Country overlook—morning mist + wildflowers = pure magic. The Lucile Halsell Conservatory is a must for dramatic architecture and reflections, while the Japanese Garden offers tranquil water features and sculptural bridges. Spring offers a riot of color when the roses and bluebonnets bloom.  Bring a macro lens for butterflies in summer, and keep an eye out for visiting art installations that always add an extra creative spark.  We’re finished and thirsty – is there a decent bar in the area?  Near the Zoo:  The Luxury (Grayson Street): Grab a drink from a giant retrofitted shipping container on the San Antonio River. Outdoor seating is shaded by oaks, with craft beers and local wines available. Try the michelada for a zesty Tex-Mex spin.  Bar 1919 (Southtown, a ten-minute ride): An atmospheric, speakeasy-inspired bar with a huge whiskey selection and creative cocktails like the Smoked Old Fashioned.  Near the Botanical Garden:  Sternewirth at Hotel Emma (in the Pearl District): High-end cocktails in an atmospheric, industrial-chic setting. Sip a “Three Emmas” for perfect balance and a slice of local lore.  Burleson Yard Beer Garden: Laid-back, family-friendly, and pet-friendly. The picnic table-filled yard is made for craft beers, frozen cocktails, and live music.  Any other good stuff nearby?  By the Zoo:  Brackenridge Park: Wander hiking trails, rent paddle boats, or scout out the whimsical Japanese Tea Garden—its stone bridges and shaded pagodas are a peaceful surprise right next to the Zoo.  Witte Museum: Dive into Texas history, science, and hands-on kids’ exhibits.    By the Botanical Garden:  San Antonio Museum of Art: Housed in a converted brewery, this spot features everything from ancient Greek pottery to Texas landscapes. Free family days pop up regularly.  DoSeum: San Antonio’s hands-on children’s museum, packed with interactive STEM and art play zones. Great pick for curious kids.  The Pearl District: Soak up local flavor in this repurposed brewery site, now a food, shopping, and culture hub. Farmers’ market on weekends is a don’t-miss for local eats, live music, and handmade goods.  Local tip: The stretch of the River Walk just north of downtown is quainter and quieter—ideal for a lazy stroll after a day exploring.    In summary, you can’t go wrong with either the San Antonio Zoo or the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Both offer unique adventures—exciting animal connections or serene plant journeys—and plenty of fun, learning, and great memories. Choose the one that matches your energy for the day…or go wild and experience both. San Antonio’s outdoors never disappoints!    Want more? Why not get adventurous in San Antonio, and discover how to beat the city's heat.  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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2 Days in San Antonio - A Weekend in San Antonio Itinerary

Spending a weekend in San Antonio and looking for things to do? We put together a list of the best things to do in San Antonio with limited time. Check out this popular 2 days in San Antonio itinerary. This Itinerary Includes: The Alamo (free!) CitySightseeing San Antonio Hop-Off Hop-On Bus Tour Pearl Brewery San Antonio Museum of Art The Riverwalk SeaWorld® San Antonio San Antonio Zoo Looking for some other itinerary options for your trip? We’ve also put together this popular 3 day San Antonio itinerary. Save on Attraction Admission Some of the attractions included in this itinerary are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Choose as you go from many of the top San Antonio attractions and save up to 40% off combined admission vs. paying at the gate. Or, build your own pass and save up to 20% off. For all available passes, attractions, and prices - Learn more. Day 1 Stop #1: The Alamo (free!) Stop #2: CitySightseeing San Antonio Hop-On Hop-Off Tour This comprehensive San Antonio hop-on hop-off bus tour is the perfect introduction to San Antonio. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a resident who hasn't taken the time to see the sights yet, this tour provides a great overview of the city sights. Especially since the tour buses operate on 20-30 minute intervals, it's a very convenient and reliable way to get around to all of the most popular spots. The tour takes you to the best of San Antonio, from the Riverwalk to Southtown while professional guides provide informative and entertaining narration along the way. Enjoy the freedom to hop-on and off and explore any of the 18 stops as you go. Featured stops include: the Alamo, the Pearl Entertainment Complex, Veteran's Memorial Park, El Mercado, and more. Insider tip: Use your San Antonio Explorer Pass and get a 48-hour pass to this City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off tour to get around to the other attractions listed in this itinerary. Getting In: Hop On Hop Off San Antonio Bus Tour tickets are available as an option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Stop #3 - Pearl Brewery & Entertainment Complex Hop off at the very next stop: The Pearl Brewery, a culinary and cultural destination along the river, is the perfect spot to grab a bite to eat. It features a farmer's market, multiple restaurants, several boutique shops, a well-curated bookstore, and plenty of entertainment options year-round. This is a great place to stop and get a feel for genuine San Antonio culture, and to enjoy things that the locals love as well. Stop #4: San Antonio Museum of Art Stop #5 - The Riverwalk Finish out the remainder of the bus tour and hop off at the last stop: the Shops at Rivercenter Mall to explore the famous Riverwalk area where you'll end the day. Consider dining here at one of the many delicious restaurants, and then save some time later for browsing the shops and stalls of the waterfront merchants. Day 2 Stop #1: SeaWorld® San Antonio Stop #2: San Antonio Zoo Let's Recap So there’s your perfect 2 days in San Antonio weekend itinerary – packed with some of the best things to do in San Antonio. This itinerary includes all of the most popular things to do in San Antonio and provides a great, all-around overview of the city’s top attractions, landmarks, and historic sites. Use this itinerary as a starting point for planning your San Antonio itinerary and customize it from there; whether you’re a history buff, thrill-seeker, outdoor adventurer, or whatever type of traveler, San Antonio has it all. Save big when you plan your itinerary with the 4- Choice San Antonio Explorer Pass and choose from over 15 top attractions, tours, museums, and more – including popular day trips from the city, like a Natural Bridge Caverns Tour or the Texas Hill Country and Lyndon B. Johnson’s Ranch Tour. Remember, you can save on admission to many of these popular attractions and more with a San Antonio Explorer Pass.
Casey Makovich
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One Day in San Antonio Itinerary - Experience San Antonio in a Day for Under $100

Traveling to San Antonio with only one day to explore? It can be hard to decide what to do with such limited time in your schedule. Fortunately, we’ve put together a one day in San Antonio itinerary to help you make the most of your one day in this historic city. This one day itinerary includes: Six Flags Fiesta Texas The Alamo (free!) Battle For Texas: The Experience Go Rio San Antonio Cruise El Mercado (free!) Spending more than one day in San Antonio? Then take a peek at one of our sample 2-day and popular 3-day itineraries for longer stays, enjoy! Save on Attraction Admission Many of the popular attractions included in this itinerary are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Choose as you go from top attractions and save up to 45% off combined admission vs. paying at the gate. With the 3-Choice San Antonio Explorer Pass, you'll get to enjoy a full day of fun! Remember, this one day in San Antonio itinerary is just one of many ways to experience the area. The San Antonio Explorer Pass® gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from many top attractions and create a vacation tailored to your interests. Stop #1: Six Flags Fiesta Texas Start your trip with a half day of entertainment and excitement at Six Flags Fiesta Texas - a part theme park/part water park destination. The park features six themed areas: Los Festivales Crackaxle Canyon Spassburg Rockville Fiesta Bay Boardwalk and KIDZOPOLIS No matter what your favorite type of theme park fun is, from classic carnival rides with varying thrill levels and high-speed roller coasters, to water pools and slides, you'll find it at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. In addition to all of the rides, the park hosts a variety of live shows and entertainment, several dining options, and even shopping venues. Our favorite ride is the Boomerang, a triple-loop coaster that thrill-seekers will adore. NEW! Coming in 2018 is the Wonder Woman Golden Lasso coaster, an exciting single-rail coaster that's among the first of its kind in the entire world! Getting In: Six Flags Fiesta Texas tickets are available as a Premium Attraction option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Stop #2: The Alamo (free!) Alamo Square, the famous site of the Battle of the Alamo, is the most visited historic landmark in the state Texas. Conveniently located in the heart of San Antonio, it's easy to visit and a San Antonio must-see attraction. The iconic building you'll see is a former Spanish mission-turned-fortress for the battle and stands today as a testament to those who fought and gave their lives in the Battle of the Alamo--it's also the place where Texian troops won independence and famously shouted “Remember the Alamo!” after months of fighting in 1836. Insider tip: Get acquainted with some of the tales and folklore surrounding The Alamo and learn some of its history by watching the Disney miniseries Davy Crockett from the 1950s and John Wayne’s film The Alamo from 1960 before your trip! Stop #3: Battle for Texas: The Experience After spending some time at The Alamo, walk over to Battle for Texas: The Experience, right in Alamo Plaza. This fully interactive exhibition is one of the best ways to learn about The Battle of The Alamo. You'll get to witness the spectacle and heroism of one of the most pivotal battles in U.S. history. See what life was like in 1836 Texas for the early settlers, learn about the tensions leading up to the Texas Revolution from both Texan and Mexican perspectives, and more through multi-media experiences and re-enactments. You'll even get to see some artifacts from the battle first-hand, including Santa Anna's uniform, Bowie knives, and some of Davy Crockett's personal possessions. This is a great educational experience for kids and adults alike, and is an excellent companion to a visit to the Alamo. Getting in: Battle for Texas: The Experience tickets are an included attraction option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Stop #4: Go Rio San Antonio Cruise After soaking up all of that Texan history, explore San Antonio's River Walk area and start with a relaxing, 30-minute cruise along the river. Each boat is operated by an experienced and knowledgeable tour guide who will talk about some of the area's unique history and culture. You'll also learn plenty of fun facts about Texas and the flourishing River Walk community. On this scenic river cruise, you'll pass under bridges and walkways, and alongside a vibrant, bustling riverfront area as your tour guide points out all the important sites. Getting in: Rio San Antonio Cruise tickets are an included attraction option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Stop #5: El Mercado (free!) For your last stop of the day, you'll want to pop by El Mercado, the largest Mexican market outside of Mexico and one of the top 10 outdoor markets in the US, according to Frommer’s. Home to over 100 locally owned shops and stores, El Mercado is one of the best places to go for authentic Mexican fare and music and to immerse yourself in one of the cultures that has had such a large influence on San Antonio. Admission to the market is free, although anything you purchase will not be covered by the Explorer Pass. Let’s Recap There you have it – our suggestions for how to make the most of your one day in San Antonio. Plan to add a few of the attractions above to your San Antonio itinerary to make the most of your trip to Texas. Remember, you can save on admission to your choice of popular attractions, like the ones included in this one day itinerary, and more with a San Antonio Explorer Pass.  
Casey Makovich

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