2 Days in San Antonio - A Weekend in San Antonio Itinerary

UPDATED DECEMBER 2024
By Casey Makovich

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!)

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This is a great way to kick off your weekend. Head to the most visited historic landmark in all of Texas --the Alamo. Walk around the very spot where a small number of Texian troops defeated the larger Mexican force to earn independence for Texas. The fighting was punctuated with shouts of "Remember the Alamo!" after months of fighting in 1836. You'll be able to see the church the troops barricaded in and walk through the timeline of the famous battle at the Wall of History and then see what life was like in San Antonio in the 1800s in the Long Barrack building. Insider tip: Get excited for your trip to The Alamo and learn about some of the legends and myths about the battle by watching the Disney miniseries Davy Crockett from the 1950s and John Wayne's film The Alamo from 1960.

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

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Located in a former 19th-century brewery, the San Antonio Museum of Art is home to exemplary collections of art from around the globe. Exhibit highlights include Egyptian, Greek, and Roman antiques, Latin American artwork, contemporary art, and Asian art. Visitors will especially love the gallery dedicated entirely to Texas art. Getting In: San Antonio Museum of Art tickets are available as an option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

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

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You'll have the time of your life at this part aquarium, part thrill-packed theme park. SeaWorld® San Antonio is home to a diversity of marine life, including dolphins, penguins, and polar bears. Visitors can go from getting splashed by killer whales to soaring upside down and reaching speeds of up to 50-miles per hour on the many thrill rides. SeaWorld has fun geared towards everyone. There are lots of thrill rides, like the fast-moving The Great White® or The Steel Eel for adrenaline-seekers, and then some more family-friendly rides like the classic splash-drop coaster ride Journey to Atlantis® or the Rio Loco® (be prepared to get soaked). There's even an entire section of the park, the Sesame Street® Bay of Play®, where kids can experience theme park fun like rides and shows on a more comfortable level. Insider tip: Plan your day around the schedule of shows you want to see and then go on rides and visit the animal exhibits in between attending shows. Getting In: SeaWorld San Antonio Single Day tickets are available as a premium option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

Stop #2: San Antonio Zoo

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If you loved the aquatic critters of SeaWorld San Antonio but are in search of a few more furry friends, then you'll definitely want to head to the San Antonio Zoo. This charming Brackenridge Park mainstay encompasses over 50 acres with approximately 750 different species to be found within. In addition to all your favorite animals big and small, you'll also find a historic train and carousel, plus a nice little gift shop. Don't forget about their seasonal butterfly garden exhibit! It's one of the most popular and is beloved by visitors and locals alike. Head here for the chance that a lovely little butterfly will land right on you! Getting In: San Antonio Zoo tickets are available as an option on the San Antonio Explorer Pass.

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
Go City Travel Expert

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San Antonio Rover
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Things to Do in San Antonio in Summer

Visiting sunny San Antonio this summer and looking for some activities and places to visit? There is lots going on in San Antonio during the summer months. From river cruises and museum exhibits to theme parks and beyond, we are sure you will have fun during your trip. If you’re planning a visit and looking for things to do in San Antonio in the summer, check out our list of the top attractions, festivals and activities going on this year, including... SeaWorld San Antonio Six Flags Fiesta Texas San Antonio Zoo Go Rio River Cruise Alamo Plaza Heading to the area to celebrate Independence Day? Then check out our post on things to do in San Antonio 4th of July Weekend. In the area towards the end of summer? Here are a few fun things to do in San Antonio Labor Day Weekend. SeaWorld San Antonio Six Flags Fiesta Texas San Antonio Zoo San Antonio River Cruise Explore Alamo Plaza If there’s one area of the city that’s a must-explore, then it’s Alamo Plaza. It’s a beautiful little urban center clustered around that most famous of Texas landmarks – the Alamo itself. In addition to being able to visit the historic Alamo, you can also explore nearby attractions like Ripley’s Believe it or Not!, the Guinness World Records Museum, and Battle for Texas: The Experience. Or, you can just make Alamo Plaza your starting point and jump aboard a hop-on hop-off San Antonio bus tour! Summer Artisan River Walk Show Explore more of San Antonio's artsy side with some time spend roaming the Summer Artisan River Walk Show. With a wide variety of local vendors offering their creative productions like pottery, jewelry, knitted goods, painting, and more, you're sure to find something to inspire or charm you at this show. It's also a good opportunity to enjoy the River Walk neighborhood! Fiesta Noche Del Rio See San Antonio's annual iconic cultural performance. Fiesta Noche Del Rio really tells a story about San Antonio, with a lovely medley of past & present along with music & dance. The performances are located at the historic Arneson River Theatre. Save on Summertime Activities So there you have it. Our picks for some of the top things to do in San Antonio in the summer. There is so much to do, the hardest part will be deciding where to go first! So get ahead and plan your itinerary using our top choices. Please note, the summer events taking place at some of these attractions may be separately ticketed and not included with the Go San Antonio pass. Plan to visit some of these top attractions during your trip. Whether you are traveling with your family or a couple of friends, we're sure you will have a great time. Regular admission to a number of these attractions are available on the San Antonio Explorer Pass. Choose as you go from popular attractions and save on combined admission vs paying at the gate. Check out all San Antonio tourist passes, attractions and prices.
Katie Sagal
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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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