Many are surprised to discover that San Antonio, Texas, is a fantastic destination for family fun. My own family of four has called this vibrant city home for almost three years, and our love for it is so profound that we recently enjoyed a 10-day staycation. Despite our extensive exploration, there’s still so much left to see and do! Here’s our curated list of must-try activities for families visiting San Antonio.
Navigating San Antonio
If you’re staying in the downtown area, you may find you don’t always need a car. However, to make the most of the fantastic hiking and outdoor adventures outside the city, renting a vehicle is advisable. Hertz offers convenient pickup options at the airport and throughout San Antonio.
Unique Experiences Awaiting You
While The Alamo is undoubtedly a highlight, don’t miss out on other captivating experiences that set San Antonio apart. Consider a Tex-Mex bike tour, kayaking along the river, or trail riding on rescue horses—these are thrilling options your family will not want to overlook.
Cost-Free Family Activities
The River Walk spans 13 miles of scenic waterways just beneath the bustling downtown streets. Families can stroll along the San Antonio River, admiring picturesque bridges, art installations, lively dance performances, and charming ducks. Countless restaurants line the walk, many with outdoor seating, offering a range of dining options, including child-friendly favorites like the Rainforest Café.
An enjoyable activity is to hop on a river cruise, where a small boat will guide you through the waterways while entertaining you with fascinating stories about the River Walk’s history and architecture. For a place to stay, numerous hotels dot the River Walk, but be prepared for a vibrant nightlife.
Don’t forget to visit the historic Alamo, where the Texans battled Santa Anna’s army in 1836. Families can enjoy carriage rides in the evening around the Alamo and downtown area, providing a delightful way to immerse your children in San Antonio’s rich history.
For outdoor enthusiasts, Lost Maples, located about an hour and a half north of San Antonio, offers excellent hiking and camping opportunities. Visitors can picnic, camp, hike, or enjoy birdwatching amidst stunning fall foliage, especially in November. Although some trails may be challenging for younger kids, the breathtaking views from the hilltops make the trek worthwhile for older children. A small grocery store nearby can assist with your picnic needs.
Enchanted Rock, situated in the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area near Fredericksburg (also about an hour and a half north), boasts a majestic 500-foot pink granite dome, the second largest of its kind in North America. This iconic formation, believed to be over a billion years old, is a hit with hikers of all ages. Remember to pack a picnic lunch and plenty of water to enjoy atop the Rock while soaking in the breathtaking Texas Hill Country views. You can choose to camp nearby, return to San Antonio, or explore Fredericksburg—a charming town filled with eateries, boutiques, and wineries where adults can indulge in wine tastings for a mere $10.
Thrills at Amusement Parks
SeaWorld San Antonio promises a full day of aquatic adventures, featuring animal shows, interactive encounters, and the exciting water park, Aquatica. It’s an ideal spot for families during hot days, with many shows involving splashes for the audience. Enjoy behind-the-scenes tours, feed dolphins, or even opt for an overnight stay. Kids will love the roller coasters, playgrounds, and Sesame Street rides designed for younger visitors. SeaWorld operates year-round, but be sure to check its seasonal hours before planning your visit.
On the other hand, Six Flags Fiesta Texas offers a compact yet thrilling experience with rides suitable for all ages. The park features a water park for a refreshing break on hot days. Our kids enjoy the carnival games that guarantee prizes, and at night, a spectacular firework and laser show unfolds, narrating tales of Texas. The park is especially festive during the Christmas season, featuring Santa Claus meet-and-greets, delicious hot chocolate, and a mock ice-skating rink.
More Adventures Await
Natural Bridge Caverns promises a day of excitement for older kids. Begin your journey by exploring the caves, which offer a cozy retreat during winter months. The guided tour lasts about 90 minutes, though young children may find the heat challenging. If you have older kids, they’ll enjoy outdoor activities like zip-lining, rock mining, and ropes courses. There’s also a drive-through safari adventure next door for even more fun.
The San Antonio Zoo, nestled in a beautiful park with a free Japanese garden, is filled with exotic animals, including birds, monkeys, and reptiles. Its compact layout makes it easy for small children to navigate without tiring too quickly. Don’t miss the butterfly garden, where kids are encouraged to touch the butterflies! A charming train ride around the park connects to the Witte Museum.
Families adore the Witte Museum, San Antonio’s science and natural history museum. Though smaller in size, it offers hours of engagement for kids, featuring stunning grounds and multiple buildings. Younger children will enjoy the HEB Treehouse with hands-on activities, while older kids can explore science and history exhibits. The museum also has a dedicated area for Texas history, where kids can interact with various displays.
Another fantastic spot for kids is the DoSeum, an interactive museum focusing on creativity and exploration. Located near downtown, the museum features exhibits that educate the entire family on various topics, from power and motion to sensory experiences.
If you’re visiting on a warm day, consider Splashtown San Antonio, one of the best waterparks in the area, perfect for cooling off. Families can relax in cabanas while the kids frolic in the wave pool or zoom down thrilling slides.
For a dash of the extraordinary, don’t miss the Guinness World Records Museum, which includes a “Ripley’s Believe It or Not!” Haunted Adventure and TombRaider 3D, alongside many incredible exhibits that will leave everyone amazed.
Family-Friendly Dining in San Antonio
Big’z is a fantastic family-oriented burger joint offering made-to-order burgers, fries, salads, and more. With large kids’ meals and a pleasant outdoor seating area, it’s a great spot for families. The spacious backyard allows kids to play while parents enjoy a refreshing drink.
The Cove is another family favorite, featuring an outdoor space for children, a lively bar, and live music on select nights. Plus, it’s dog-friendly, making it a delightful place for families and their furry friends.
Top Accommodation Options in San Antonio
For a popular family retreat, the San Antonio Hill Country Resort and Spa boasts beautiful accommodations, a spa, and a lazy river pool perfect for summer days. The resort offers a 36-hole golf course, a six-acre River Bluff water park, and a kids’ camp complete with evening s’mores around the campfire.
If you prefer a downtown stay, consider the historic Crockett Hotel, which offers unique touches throughout and a complimentary breakfast buffet for families. It’s conveniently located near The River Walk and The Alamo. The Gunter Hotel San Antonio is another charming downtown option brimming with Texas character.
For those needing a more home-like setting, explore the variety of kid-friendly Airbnb options in San Antonio, from high-rises by the river to spacious townhomes, ensuring everyone has their own space.
Packing Essentials for Your San Antonio Trip
When traveling with children, packing comfortable, versatile outfits is crucial. Think trendy sneakers, easy-going jeans or shorts, and a light sweater. A spacious Baggu tote doubles as a carry-on and a day bag for snacks, travel games, and toys to keep the kids entertained. Don’t forget an instant camera for capturing memories in real-time, as well as a stylish sun hat for protection against the Texas sun.
For more insights and resources on home insemination, check out this informative resource for pregnancy and home insemination tips. Additionally, for LGBTQ families exploring fertility options, this resource provides expert guidance.
In summary, San Antonio is a treasure trove of family-friendly activities, from outdoor adventures and amusement parks to interactive museums and delicious dining options. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something new to explore.