As the seventh-largest and 17th-most visited city in America, San Antonio is an ideal place for both locals and tourists. Located just south of Texas’ state capital, the sunny city of San Antonio has plenty to offer when it comes to entertainment and pastimes, from historical sites and museums, all the way to amusement parks and ghost city tours.
So, if you’re planning to visit or are even looking at apartments in San Antonio this new year, here’s a list of things to do and places to visit that will surely keep you entertained in this vibrant hotspot.
Take a River Walk
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Perhaps the city’s most well-known and accessible attraction, the River Walk flows through five miles of downtown San Antonio and offers spectacular views, restaurants, boat rides and countless events throughout the year. Cruising the river walk is completely free and, given the friendly Texan weather, an evening walk down the river sounds like an absolute dream. Here, you can get your exercise while sightseeing in some of the most beautiful places the city has to offer.
Visit The Alamo
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“Remember the Alamo” is a common phrase heard among history buffs, and San Antonio prides itself with the site of a real crossroads in history. The Spanish Mission San Antonio de Valero — now known simply as The Alamo — was established 300 years ago and is best known as the site of the 1836 battle of The Alamo. With a rich history and heritage to inspire generations, The Alamo is the perfect attraction for history aficionados, as well as a must-see for every San Antonio resident.
Have Fun at Six Flags Fiesta
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After taking in a fair share of history, “carpe diem” by spending a day at the Six Flags Fiesta Texas amusement park. Located in La Cantera (a popular development district in San Antonio), Six Flags has rides for everyone from kids to adults and scaredy-cats to adrenaline-seekers. You can also attend events and live shows in the park, as well as dine and wine after a day of riding the rollercoasters.
Take a Ghost City Tour
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If giant roller coasters aren’t enough to scare you, maybe you could use a dose of the paranormal. If so, the good news is that San Antonio has that covered as well. In fact, the city offers a surprisingly high number of ghost and vampire tours, some of which can even be seen on Segways. Choose either a day or night tour and take it as an opportunity to see the lesser-known corners of the city — all while learning about its supposedly haunted locations. After all, every day can be Halloween if you’re in the right state of mind — or in San Antonio, as it turns out.
Meet the Mammals at Sea World
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Penguins, dolphins, sea lions, killer whales — Sea World in San Antonio is home to a large number of marine animals that you don’t come across every day. Spread across 250 acres on the west side of the city, the San Antonio Sea World is the largest marine life park in the nation. Here, visitors can enjoy unique experiences with mammals and aquamarine animals, as well as family-friendly live shows and exciting rides.
Take a Walk in the Botanical Garden
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Given the city’s great year-round weather, one of the best things to do in San Antonio is to spend time outdoors. And, what better way to take in the fresh air and beautiful nature than by visiting the botanical garden? Plus, San Antonio’s Botanical Garden is nationally recognized as one of the very best as it offers a diverse museum of plants; a research and conservation facility; and an entertainment venue. As a result, it’s safe to say you can easily spend an entire day in this relaxing oasis.
Visit the Witte Museum
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Located just minutes from downtown San Antonio, the Witte is known as the city’s premiere museum of south Texas history, culture and natural science. From dinosaur galleries to heritage exhibitions and interactive adventures, the museum checks all the boxes. Not only that, but you can even rent different venues in the museum’s campus if you’re looking to host a wedding, party or corporate event in a unique environment.
