Activities

Things to do in San Antonio courtesy of the San Antonio Visitors Center Website.

The Alamo: 300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 225-1391 x34 | Fax: (210) 354-3602; www.thealamo.org

On the east side of Alamo Plaza is the most famous spot in Texas where 189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, after repeated attacks by Mexican General Santa Anna's army. Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo) was established in 1718 as the city's first mission. The chapel, one of the most photographed facades in the nation, and the Long Barracks are all that remain of the original fort. Long Barracks Museum and Library are near the chapel. The museum contains relics and mementos from the Republic of Texas and offers narration on the fall of the Alamo. The Alamo is located in the heart of the city, inside beautifully landscaped grounds. Hours: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday. Closed December 24 and 25. Admission Free: donations accepted. Call for more information.

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Aztec on the River: 201 E. Commerce Street, Suite 300, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 227-3930 | Toll Free: (877) 432-9832 | Fax: (210) 271-7077; www.aztecontheriver.com

The Aztec On The River™ is the RiverWalk’s newest, most exciting attraction. This historic 1926 movie palace has been meticulously restored, complete with a Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ. Modern enhancements have been added to create an incredible experience: a FREE multi-million dollar special effects show in the Grand Lobby every 90 minutes, a giant screen theatre with incredible surround-sound, plus unique shopping and dining. Open daily - call for showtimes. Group, senior and military discounts available. On the RiverWalk at the corner of E. Commerce and N. St. Mary’s Streets.

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Buckhorn Saloon & Museum: 318 E Houston St, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 247-4000 | Fax: (210) 247-4020; www.buckhornmuseum.com

The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum is proud to have been voted "2002 Best Attraction" by the Downtown Alliance/San Antonio. Discover more than 120 years of history.... Texas style. Marvel at two stories of the most exotic collections you've ever seen, from our unique horn collection, to cowboy memorabilia and fish from the Seven Seas. See a two headed calf and a lamb with eight legs! Test your hand in our authentic shooting gallery and arcade. Don't miss the world's only Wax Museum of Texas History. And, don't forget to swing by the Buckhorn Curio Store, where you'll find extraordinary Texas collectibles and authentic Buckhorn souvenirs for the entire family. Located a short two blocks from the Alamo and 50 feet from the River Walk. Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or later, Sunday - Thursday; 10 a.m. - 6 p.m. or later, Friday and Saturday. Call for exact closing times. Admission: Adults $10.99; seniors(55+) $9.99; Children (ages 3-11) $7.99. Special rates for group of 10 or more, and discounts for Military with ID.
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Casa Navarro State Historical Park: 228 S. Laredo St., San Antonio, TX 78207; Phone: (210) 226-4801 | Fax: (210) 226-4801; jose.zapata@tpwd.state.tx.us | www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/jose

The home site of Jose Antonio Navarro (1795-1871), a Texas legislator under Mexico, the Republic of Texas and the U.S. The site of Navarro’s furnished house, first residence, and store. Navarro’s life illustrates Texas’ rich Mexican history and heritage. Conversational tours and exhibits are provided. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. Admission: $2, children 12 and under free. Adult group rate $1; school groups 50 cents per person.
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Enchanted Springs Ranch: 242 Hwy 46 West, Boerne, TX 78006; Phone: (830) 249-8222 | Fax: (830) 249-1131 | Toll Free: (800) 640-5917; events@enchantedspringsranch.com • www.enchantedspringsranch.com

An authentic old west town right out of the 1800 s used for western films, commercials, and special events. Adults $10, Kids $5. Fee includes a tour of the old west town plus a tractor wagon ride through a working ranch of Texas longhorns, horses, buffalo and lots of exotic animals. September - February open Saturday and Sunday only; March- August open Tueday - Sunday; 10 am - 5 pm. Admission: $10 adults, $5 kids. Call for more information.
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Fiesta Farm: 8497 FM 1560 N, San Antonio, TX 78254; Phone: (210) 316-3166; gloriaduhaime@sbcglobal.net | www.FiestaFarmLC.com

Fiesta Farm is a fantastic new play farm with pony rides, hay ride, petting zoos, a large sandbox and bubble machine. Open to the public on Wednesday and Saturday mornings for $6 per person. Available for School Field Trips with lots of hands-on education. Open year round with a large warm barn and lots of shade. (Other hours available by appointment).
Visit our website at www.FiestaFarmLC.com for more information and lots of photos.
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Guinness World Records Museum, Ripley's Haunted Adventure, and Davy Crockett's Tall Tales Ride: 329 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 226-2828 | Fax: (210) 226-7462; www.haunted-guinness-crockett.com

San Antonio's newest attractions are all three in one location directly across from the Alamo! The Guinness World Records Museum is a state of the art, interactive experience that brings the world famous book to life. Explore 16 themed galleries spread over 10,000 sq. feet featuring exhibits, artifacts, videos, and games all showcasing exciting world records. Ripley's Haunted Adventure is a multi -million dollar special effect haunted house. Climb aboard the three story ride that empties you into a mixture of live actors, special effects, elaborate sets, and animatronics. Guaranteed to bring terror to even the heartiest of souls! Davy Crockett's Tall Tales Ride is a fantastic theme park style ride through the life and times of Davy Crockett, according to Davy himself. Enjoy a narrated journey through colorful sets, loveable animatronic characters, and an array of special and visual effects. All three attractions are open daily except for Christmas Day. Call for prices and hours of operation.
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King William Historic Area: 1032 South Alamo, San Antonio, TX 78210; Phone: (210) 227-8786 | Fax: (210) 227-8030; King.william@sbcglobal.net | www.kingwilliamassociation.org

A 25-block area near downtown on the south bank of the San Antonio River. In the late 1800's the King William District was the most elegant residential area in the city. Prominent German merchants originally settled the area. It was zoned as the state's first historic district, and has once again become a fashionable neighborhood. The area includes the following attractions.
: Note - RESTRICTED ACCESS: Motorcoaches/buses may obtain a Historic District Destination Point Permit to drop off and pick-up passengers (using the most direct route from the city designed arterial) for the Steves Homestead by contacting the City of San Antonio Transportation Dept. at 210-207-7378 or 210-207-7379.
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La Villita: 418 Villita #900 • San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 207-8613 | Fax: (210) 207-4390; www.lavillita.com

A unique arts and crafts community with shops, working artists, restaurants and a post office. The Old San Antonio Exhibit (located in Bolivar Hall) houses a collection of art objects, artifacts and symbols relevant to the history. This beautifully landscaped historic district offers leisurely shopping, dining and five rental venues for special events. Shops open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free admission. Closed holidays.
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Market Square - El Mercado: 514 W. Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78207; Phone: (210) 207-8600 | Fax: (210) 207-4287; www.marketsquaresa.com

From early morning until late at night, Market Square is alive with activity. Visitors browse through the 32 shops at "El Mercado," an area patterned after an authentic Mexican market. In addition, there are 80 specialty shops in Farmers Market Plaza. Market Square is also the scene of many Hispanic festivals where food and beverage booths spring up alongside the Guadalajara lamps and the strains of mariachi music blend with the excitement of Mexican dances. Free admission. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m., summer; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., winter. Stores closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter.
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Natural Bridge Caverns: 26495 Natrual Bridge Caverns Rd., Natural Bridge Caverns, TX 78266; Phone: (210) 651-6101 | Fax: (210) 651-6144; http://www.naturalbridgecaverns.com

Come experience one of the world's premier caverns, Natural Bridge Caverns. Take the North Cavern Tour and see what millions of others have seen - an incredible underground world of natural beauty. This 75-minute tour travels through a half-mile of the largest and most spectacular show cavern in Texas. Other cavern tours include the Jeremy Room Flashlight Tour and the South Cavern Adventure tour. Or take Watchtower Challenge and climb and zip from one of the tallest and longest climbing tower and ziplines in Texas! Also, be sure to visit the Natural Bridge Mining Company, where you can pan for gems and minerals like miners panned for gold. A gift shop, snack bar, and picnic grounds are also available. Open year 'round from 9 am - 4 pm, with extended Spring and Summer hours.
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Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch: 26515 Natural Bridge Caverns Road, Natural Bridge Caverns, TX 78266; Phone: (830) 438-7400 | Fax: (830) 438-3494; GotAQuestion@WildlifeRanchTexas.com | www.wildliferanchtexas.com

Have you ever dreamed of going on an African Safari? Well ... Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is your dream come true, only Texas Style. With hundreds of animals from all over the world roaming freely in the picturesque Texas Hill Country. Animals are enticed to come up for nose to nose encounters with the complimentary feed given upon entrance. The Petting Zoo and Walk-a-Bout areas are included in admission and everyone is invited to travel through the Ranch as many times as they would like during their visit. Admission is $14.50 for adults, $7.00 for children (3-11 years) and $13.00 for seniors (65+). Texas' most visited safari park is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended summer hours of 9 am to 6:30 pm (Memorial Day-Labor Day).
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Old Spanish Trail: 3400 Fredericksburg Rd., San Antonio, TX; Phone: (210) 735-3503; ost100kahl@aol.com | www.oldspanishtrailcentennial.com

During the 1920s San Antonio's Gunter Hotel was the headquarters for the building of the southern U.S. transcontinental Auto Highway commemorated by the 0-Mile Stone on City Hall lawn. From St. Augustine, Florida to San Diego, California, the Old Spanish Trail links cities of Spanish conquest and settlement. The OST enters San Antonio on Seguin St. along I-35, proceeds south on New Braunfels Ave. to Houston St., west on Houston to Flores St., north along Flores and out Fredericksburg Rd., I-10 and Boerne Stage Rd. into the hill country. A decorative stone bench recognizing the OST is located at 3400 Fredericksburg Rd. To see a map, click on maps.sanantonio.gov.
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Ripley's Believe It or Not & Louis Tussaud's Wax Works: 301 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 224-9299 | Fax: (210) 224-1516; droemer@ripleys.com | www.plazawaxmuseum.com

Ripley's Believe It or Not! & Louis Tussaud's Wax Works. Two premiere attractions located in the heart of downtown - on the same street as the historic Alamo. RiverCenter Mall and the famous River Walk are just ½ block away. Ripley's Believe It or Not! allows you to discover one-of-a-kind oddities, curiosities and illusions gathered from all over the world by the famed cartoonist Robert Ripley. There are over 500 exhibits - one of the largest in the world! Louis Tussaud's Wax Works features a collection of wax figures displayed within themed sections of Hollywood, Children's Land of Make Believe, Freedom's Journey (contains a 66 ft. hand painted wall mural dedicated to our country's history), Horror (optional section), History, Religion and much more! Open daily - opening and closing times vary with the seasons, so call for times and admission prices. Group rates available for 12 or more people. Private receptions, birthday parties, etc. are welcome.
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River Walk (Paseo Del Rio): 110 Broadway, Suite 440, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 227-4262 | Fax: (210) 212-7602; admin@paseoderio.com | www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com

Paseo Del Rio in the heart of downtown, is the pride of the city. Lush green foliage lines the banks of this peaceful, historic river. Cobblestone walkways lead visitors to the river-level restaurants and shops. The river bubbles to the surface on the grounds of the University of the Incarnate Word and flows to downtown, threading its way through the city one level below the hustle and bustle of city streets. First called Yanaguana by the Payaya Indians, meaning "place of refreshing waters." Along the horseshoe shaped riverbend, the river is shaded by towering cypresses, oaks and willows and bordered by gardens of flowering ornamental plants. River cruisers travel the River Walk's three miles past unique retail shops, restaurants and nightclubs. See Rio San Antonio Cruises, listed in Activites and Rides.
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San Antonio Botanical Garden: 555 Funston, San Antonio, TX 78209; Phone: (210) 207-3250 | Fax: (210) 207-3274; www.sabot.org

This 33-acre living museum, one can enjoy colorful seasonal floral displays, a serene native forest walk, exotic plant specimens from around the world, modernistic glass pyramids, and even an authentic log cabin. Highlights include the Old Fashioned Perennial Garden, Rose Garden, Sacred Garden, Garden for the Blind, Kuamoto En (an authentic Japanese Garden), and extensive native collections representing the hill Country, East Texas and Southwest Texas. The futuristic Lucile Halsell Conservatory features plants from around the world displayed in the Exhibit Room, Desert Pavilion, Tropical Forest Room, Palm House and Fern Grotto. The Aquatic Garden Pool is the central feature of the Conservatory Courtyard. The historic Carriage House, your entry point to the Garden, also includes the gift shop and restaurant (kitchen closed Mondays). Garden is open every day from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed Christmas and New Years's Day. Admission: Adults $6.00; Children (3-13 yrs) $3.00; Seniors (60 yrs and up) $4.00; Student/Military (with ID card) $4.00. Tour rates available.
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San Antonio IMAX Theatre Rivercenter: 849 E Commerce, #285, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 247-4629 | Fax: (210) 227-5432 | Toll Free: (800) 354-4629; www.imax-sa.com

"Alamo - The Price of Freedom," is a 45-minute docudrama about the 13-day siege and fall of the Alamo. Watch the battle unfold, where 189 defenders who fought and died for the cause of Texas liberty. Other IMAX features, including IMAX 3D, also show. The giant IMAX screen, large film frames and incredible sound system create The IMAX Experience®. Your movie-going experience is so real that yo feel like you are immersed in the film and in IMAX 3D you will want to reach out and touch the images floating toward you. Shows daily from 9 a.m. - 10 p.m. Admission: adults $9.25; children (3-11) $6.24; senior (65+) and youth (12-17) $8.33. The prices do not include tax. Advance reservations and assigned seating are available.
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San Antonio Missions National Historical Park: 2202 Roosevelt Ave., San Antonio, TX 78210; Phone: (210) 534-8833 | Fax: (210) 534-1106; www.nps.gov/saan

The chain of missions established along the San Antonio River in the 18th century are reminders of one of Spain's most successful attempts to extend its New World dominion from Mexico. Representing both church and state, these missions were charged with converting the local Native Americans, collectively called Coahuiltecans, into devout Catholics and productive members of Spanish society. More than just churches on the Spanish Colonial frontier, the missions also served as vocational and educational centers, economic enterprises involved in agricultural and ranching endeavors and regional trade. They were the greatest concentration of Catholic missions in North America and formed the foundation for what is today the thriving city of San Antonio. The park contains the historically and architecturally significant structures of missions Concepción, San José, San Juan and Espada. Other important cultural resources included are the historic Espada Dam and Aqueduct, acequia (irrigation) systems and the Rancho de las Cabras. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year's. Free admission. The visitor center is located next to Mission San Jose and contains a theater showing a 20-minute depiction of early life at the mission, a museum and book shop.; Mission Concepción, 807 Mission Rd. at Felisa St., Tel. 210/534-1540; Mission San Francisco de la Espada, 10040 Espada Rd., Tel. 210/627-2021; Mission San José, 6701 San Jose Dr., Tel. 210/932-1001; Mission San Juan Capistrano, 9101 Graf Rd., Tel. 210/534-0749
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San Antonio Zoo Eagle: 3810 N. St. Mary's St., San Antonio, TX 78212; Phone: (210) 735-7455 | Fax: (210) 734-7291; www.sazoo-aq.org

Miniature railway travels 2 1/2 miles and crosses the San Antonio River Twice. Hours of operations: 9 am - 5 pm Winter; 9 am - 6 pm Summer, 365 days a year (weather permitting). Closes 1/2 hour after Zoo gates closes. Admission: adults $2.25; children (3-11) $2. Other Park attractions listed alphabetically include the San Antonio Zoo, Sunken Gardens, and Witte Museum.
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San Antonio Zoological Gardens and Aquarium: 3903 N. St. Mary's St., San Antonio, TX 78212; Phone: (210) 734-7184 | Fax: (210) 734-7291; www.sazoo-aq.org

Ranked as one of the best zoos in the nation exhibiting over 3,500 animals of 750 species. At the headwaters of the San Antonio River, the zoo encompasses 35 landscaped acres. Includes one of the largest bird collections in the world. The Zoo has a magnificent mini-zoo designed specifically for children under 5, Kronkosky's Tiny Tot Nature Spot. Open 365 days a year. Hours: 9 a.m.- 5 p.m. from Labor Day to Memorial Day; 9 a.m.- 6 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission: adults $9; seniors (62+) and children (3-11) $7; military $8; under 2 free. Group rates available.
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Spanish Governor's Palace: 105 Plaza de Armas, San Antonio, TX 78205-2412; Phone: (210) 224-0601 | Fax: (210) 223-5562; www.sanantonio.gov/sapar

A national historic landmark, labeled "the most beautiful building in San Antonio" by the National Geographic Society, it once housed the officials of the Spanish Province of Texas. Over the entrance is the original keystone which contains the carved, double-headed eagle of the Hapsburg coat-of-arms and the inscription, in Spanish, "finished in 1749." Distinguishing features include period furnishings and a cobblestone patio with fountain and foliage. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday. Admission: adults $1.50, children (7-13) 75 cents.
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Sunset Station: 1174 E Commerce, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 474-7640 | Fax: (210) 223-2524; www.sunset-station.com

Sunset Station, nestled in the historic St. Paul district, offers you a unique experience in downtown San Antonio. Visit our venue to enjoy dining at Aldaco’s fine Mexican Cuisine or Ruth’s Chris Steak House or experience a self paced walking tour to marvel at the turn of the century architecture; or catch a concert of a nationally recognized touring act which range from blues to country to alternative to rock. Free evening shuttle service is available, just ask your concierge or we are also a stop on the yellow trolley line. Planning a meeting or bringing a convention to San Antonio? Sunset Station blends the romance of the Hispanic culture with the charm of South Texas to be your prime destination in downtown San Antonio to create your own historic event. Please call or visit the website for more information on our banquet space, catering, or concert series.
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The Guenther House: 205 E. Guenther St., San Antonio, TX 78204; Phone: (210) 227-1061 | Fax: (210) 351-6372; www.guentherhouse.com

Located on a bend of the San Antonio River at foot of King William is one of the oldest historic districts in Texas. Carl Hilmar Guenther, founder of Pioneer Flour Mills, built this elegant home in 1860. The restored house offers a museum featuring mill memorabilia. Of interest to collectors are the Dresden China anniversary plates made in Germany until WWII. Museum and River Mill store hours: 8 a.m.- 4 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 8 a.m.- 3 p.m., Sunday. Restaurant hours: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m. daily. Free admission.
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Tower of the Americas: 600 HemisFair Park, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 223-3101; www.toweroftheamericas.com

For more than 35 years, the 750-foot-tall Tower of the Americas has offered residents and tourists of San Antonio, Texas, the most breathtaking view of the Alamo City - visitors dine at the Tower's revolving restaurant or enjoy the scenery from the observation deck. Now, Landry's Restaurants, Inc. has taken the experience to a whole new level. Among the improvements are an upscale eatery, banquet facility and a Texas-themed 4-D, multi-sensory theater.; • The Eyes Over Texas treats guests to pure dining pleasure with a delectable menu and sophisticated atmosphere. The new restaurant, which boasts 360-degree, revolving vistas, seats up to 250 people and has space for 75 more at the bar.; • On the observation deck, a banquet and meeting space has been added to accommodate a wide range of events. It is a premier location for black-tie galas, business meetings, weddings and more.; • The Skies Over Texas is a sophisticated ride that takes visitors on a high-flying trip across the Lone Star State, the 4-D theater zooms in on such scenes as a Friday-night high school football game and working up-close-and-personal with a space shuttle at NASA and more.; • A ground-level café and retail shop give visitors more ways to enjoy their day. Additional amusements, attractions and food vendors greet guests at the base of the Tower..; Built in honor of the 1968 World's Fair celebrating San Antonio's 250th anniversary. Owned by the citizens of San Antonio, the Tower is operated by Landry's Restaurants, Inc.
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Ultimate Mirror Maze Challenge: 217 Alamo Plaza #100, San Antonio, TX 78205; Phone: (210) 224-2288; www.amazingmazes.com

Enjoy a unique, eye-popping experience that is fun for any age. Find your way out of a maze composed entirely of mirrors and explore endless hallways and thousands of mirrors. It's never the same experience twice. You can also satisfy your sweet tooth at River Sweets Candy, located in the lobby – grab a bag and mix and match your favorites – they are all here! Open daily at 10am and closed only on Christmas day. Group Rates are available for 10 or more people Admission is good for the entire day. Call for prices and hours.
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