Our Top 5 Must-See Places in San Antonio, Texas

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Located in south-central Texas, and boasting a population of 1.5 million people, San Antonio is one of the fastest growing cities in America. And for good reason too! It’s an INCREDIBLE city, full of great activities, fantastic food, and terrific people! And the word is out. Last year, over 37 million people visited San Antonio. Here are our top five things to see or do over a weekend get-away:

OUR Top 5:

1. Riverwalk

Riverwalk (also known as the Paseo del Rio) is the most beautiful network of walkways, bridges and pathways that follow along the banks of the San Antonio River. Located one level below the roads, Riverwalk is a pedestrian street that contains shops, restaurants, bars, nature and public artwork. It goes on for 15 miles and encompasses many twists and turns. One of the very best ways to see the Riverwalk is by River Taxi (we chose the Go Rio Riverboat Cruise).

2. The Alamo

An 18^th Century Spanish mission, where the infamous 1836 Battle for Texas Independence was fought. Back in the 1700’s the Alamo was built as a home to Spanish missionaries. Originally called the Mission San Antonio de Valero, the Spanish soldiers called it the “Alamo”. In 1821 Texas was part of Mexico. A powerful Mexican General, named Santa Anna, was a ruthless and violent leader who brought 1,800 troops in to regain control of the Alamo, and Texas. The Texans (called Texians at the time), led by James Bowie, William Travis, and famous folk hero, David Crockett, fought and defended the fort for 13 days. Every Texas soldier was killed. Although Texas lost the battle, Sam Houston eventually led the Texans to victory over Santa Anna at the Battle of San Jacinto.

3. Market Square

Packed full of local vendors, Market Square is three full blocks full of food trucks, vendors, and local artisans. It is also known as the largest Mexican Market in the United States. The weekend that we were there was a Mexican Independence Day celebration called “El Grito de Dolores”. The music was lively, and there were thousands of people that had come out to be part of this celebration, including local TV crews.

4. Japanese Tea Garden

While looking for something to see on our way to the airport, we found the most beautiful little garden near the San Antonio Zoo called the Japanese Tea Garden. We were only able to spend about an hour here, but wished that we had had all day. It was the most lovely little surprise on our San Antonio adventure. I highly recommend you set aside at least half of your day for this hidden gem.

5. Missions Historical Park/Trail

The San Antonio Missions Historical Park & Mission Trail connects the five missions, via the Mission Hike and Bike Trail. The trail is 8 miles long and runs along the riverfront. Mission Valero (The Alamo), Mission San Jose, Mission Concepcion, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada make up the five missions that were named a UNESCO World Heritage site in 2015. This historical Park also participates in the Junior Ranger program, so be sure to bring the kids along for a great history lesson.

Other things that we wished that we had seen, but ran out of time:

San Antonio Zoo & Aquarium

Sea World

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Natural Bridge Caverns

San Antonio Museum of Art

Our favorite eateries or shops:

Pancake Joe’s for breakfast

This is about 15 minutes from Riverwalk.
And COMPLETELY worth the drive!

Shilo’s Deli

Tex-Mex anywhere on the Riverwalk

Enormous Margarita’s!
And fabulous fajitas!

Rocky Mountain Chocolate Factory

Spice and Tea Exchange

Let’s Get to the Point

If you’d like to learn more about how our family of six was able to go to San Antonio, Texas, for four days, all on points (meaning FREE), feel free to reach out to me at erin@letsgettothepoint.com, or connect with me on Facebook or Instagram.