Be sure to check out our 2 week Texas and New Mexico Itinerary and the Southwest Region page for other ideas around the best things to do in San Antonio Texas!
*Last updated 9/5/2023
San Antonio
We spent 3 nights camping at the San Antonio KOA. It was one of the nicer KOAs that we have visited. Additionally, even though it is located in central San Antonio, it is quiet and has a nice, private feel. Also, it has a small restaurant, where you can get breakfast, lunch or dinner.
While you are downtown, make sure to stop at Schilo’s for lunch. It is the oldest restaurant in San Antonio and serves up German/Texan food in a cozy atmosphere.
The Riverwalk
The river intersects through the city and there are numerous staircases and bridges that will take down and over the river. Definitely take time to just walk around and enjoy the river scenery. During Christmas-season, the river is lit up with lights.
Another option is to get onto the river with a river cruise from Go Rio. There is a ticket booth and departure point just down the stairs by Schilo’s restaurant. Just be aware that our guide was a bit more silly jokes than historical information.
The Alamo
The Alamo is probably the most recognizable attraction in San Antonio. Additionally, it began as one of the area’s missions, known as Mission San Antonio de Valero, but later served as a fort during the Texas revolution.
Be aware that the Alamo requires ticket reservations. You can buy them at a booth on the street, but it might be best to buy in advance in case they sell out. Also, they have musket demonstrations on the weekends and you can find the times on their website.
San Antonio Missions
There are 5 missions (including the Alamo) that make up the make up the Missions national historic park. We found the four missions outside of downtown San Antonio to be a great and a more peaceful experience than the extremely busy Alamo.
The sites are not large and are not far apart, so you can easily visit all four of the missions in under 3 hours. Also, there is a hike/bike trail that connects all of the missions if you are looking to get some exercise.
The missions (from South to North) are:
- Espada
- San Juan
- San Jose
- Concepcion
- San Antonio de Valero (the Alamo)
The main park visitor center is located at Mission San Jose, so if you don’t visit all of them, you may want to make sure to stop at that one.
San Antonio Zoo
The San Antonio Zoo is a great option if you are looking for a fun activity for your kid(s). They have a partnership with other US zoos, so make sure to bring your passes to receive half-off your visit.
ALSO CONSIDER VISITING THESE NEARBY AREAS
While in San Antonio, you could consider going to the nearby Natural Bridge Caverns, popular artist/foody town of Gruene, the dude ranches of Bandera, or drive a bit further to Big Bend National Park.