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 Adventures: SeaWorld® or LEGOLAND® Discovery Center?

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...  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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The Best Cheap Things to do in San Antonio

Vacations are expensive - there are no two ways about it. You save up all year, putting a bit of your wage away every month so you can splurge on a great trip. But when you take flights, accommodation, eating out, drinks, and your itinerary into account, those savings can go fast. After all, San Antonio is full of things to see and do, places to go, and delicious food and drink to consume. Eventually, all those sweet dollars are gonna dry up. So, what to do? After all, we can't have you living on noodle cups like a college student. No, those days are long gone. Instead, let's look at the cheaper side of San Antonio. Why don't we bring together the very best cheap things to do in San Antonio? We'll put them all in one place - right here - and let you decide which ones you want to do. Sound like a plan? Good. Alright then, let's get on with it. These are our picks for the best cheap things to do in San Antonio! Including: Go Rio San Antonio River Cruise One-day E-Bike rental The Tower of the Americas the Witte Museum and more! Go ham on a San Antonio River Cruise! Let's kick things off with a smooth river cruise that'll let you see the city from a different perspective. With a narrator in tow, you'll glide down the San Antonio River, see the sights and sounds, and learn more about the city. Hop aboard this colorful electric boat at the San Antonio Visitor Centre and set sail down the waterways. You'll pass sites like where General Santa Anna placed his cannon line in the Battle of the Alamo, the old crossing where Teddy Roosevelt led his rough riders, the Briscoe Western Art Museum, and much more. Then, when your thirty-minute odyssey is up, you'll hop out and get on with your day. Cheap and cheerful at under $15, or you could grab an Explorer Pass and see tons of San Antonio's best bits for one price! Explore the city on two wheels with a one-day E-Bike rental! After days of gorging on San Antonio's Texan cuisine and washing it down with a few beers or whiskeys, your midriff might be slightly larger. And by slightly, we mean alarmingly so. If that's the case, why not hire a bike and get active? It'll let you explore the city at your own pace and get your heart pumping at the same time! You'll find docking stations extending from Mission Reach through downtown and north along Museum Reach. And with pedal assist, you can take your foot off the gas, so to speak. If you've seen all the San Antonio's sights, give the Mission Reach Trail a go. It's a big one, coming in at sixteen miles for the roundtrip, but it passes through some of the best scenery in the city. At $15 a day, it's easily one of the best cheap things to do in San Antonio. It's also included in our Explorer Pass if you want to get more bang for your buck. Take a trip up the Tower of America Want to experience the best view of the city? Step right up, one and all, and journey to the top of the Tower of America. It's so good, they named the entire country after it. Or was it the other way around? Guess we'll never know. Head up to the 360-degree observation deck, and you'll see the city's top landmarks and sights, including the Alamo, the River Walk, and more. You'll also get free entry into the Skies Over Texas 4D Theater Ride, where you'll get a virtual helicopter tour of the city's highlights, zooming past live street performances, a high school football game, and more. Who knew a tower could pack so much into it? Well, we did, because - you guessed it - it's part of our Explorer Pass too. Is there anything we don't do for you? Maybe, maybe not. Discover big dead animals and more at the Witte Museum! If you like your history prehistoric and your mind blown, then we've got two words for you. The Witte Museum. Wait, that's not two words. Disregard the above. But don't disregard The Witte Museum! It's the jewel in San Antonio's cultural crown, with over ten acres of eye-opening, mind-widening entertainment. From giant dinosaur skeletons to hands-on scientific exhibits, there's something for every curious mind behind the Witte's doors. Explore the Naylor Family Dinosaur Gallery, where you'll encounter skeletons, excavate dinosaur bones, and learn about giant dinosaur footprints. And at H-E-B Body Adventure, you'll explore the human body like never before. Over four floors, you'll learn about its limits and its goings-on from the inside out. That's just a taste, mind. To get the full dish, you'll need to head there yourself. And with our Explorer Pass, you'll simply scan in and swan along. Nice. Go touch grass at one of San Antonio's many parks! And finally, we'll end this jolly foray into the cheaper side of San Antonio with something that won't cost you a dime. Parks are their name, and having free, nature-filled fun is their game. There's Brackenridge Park, with its running waters, golfing opportunities, and plenty of places to pitch your tent. Fancy a hike? Give Friedrich Wilderness Park a pop. With its rocky climbs and enchanting scenery, there's no shortage of natural beauty. Plus, there's plenty of wildlife to spy for those with a keener eye. Or, try the aforementioned Missions Reach Trail, which takes you through the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. SAMNHP to her friends (not really, a park doesn't really make friends) is a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and it's where you'll find the infamous Alamo. You can even take a tour if you like. Lovely. And those are our picks for the best cheap things to do in San Antonio. May your vacation be long and full of fun, and your wallet heavy with riches. For everything else San Antonio, check out Go City. With our Explorer Pass, you can see San Antonio's best bits, as well as some of the best museums in the city, at your own pace!
Dom Bewley
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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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