Nestled deep in the heart of Texas, Downtown San Antonio is a testament to the Lone Star State’s rich tapestry of history, culture, and vibrant modernity. This urban oasis, known as much for the gentle serenade of the San Antonio River as for its iconic landmarks, offers both locals and visitors an array of unforgettable experiences.

This article’ll delve into the best things to do in downtown San Antonio.

1. Visit The Alamo

No trip to San Antonio is complete without a visit to the Alamo, one of the city’s and the United States’ most iconic landmarks. This historic site was the site of the famous Battle of the Alamo in 1836 and is now a museum that showcases artifacts and exhibits related to Texas’s fight for independence.

2. Watch the San Fernando Cathedral light up

Located in the heart of downtown, the San Fernando Cathedral is a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. On Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday evenings the Cathedral is lit up three times after dark (9 pm, 930pm and 10 pm) by The Saga.

3. See San Antonio from above at the Tower of the Americas

The Tower of the Americas is a 750-foot-tall observation tower located in Hemisfair Park. The views over San Antonio are spectacular. The tower’s revolving restaurant, Chart House, is an excellent spot for a romantic dinner or special occasion. The Tower of the Americas has a full schedule of special events from movie nights to BBQs to market days at the tower’s base.

4. Experience The River Walk

I absolutely fell in love with the San Antonio Riverwalk. There is a huge range of activities and things to do along the 15-mile trail. Walking is one of the most enjoyable things to do along the River Walk. I walked from Pearl to the King William District when I visited San Antonio. North of downtown, the River Walk has been beautifully landscaped with art, water features, areas to sit and much more.

5. Travel back in time at La Villita

La Villita is an Artisan Village on the southern bank of the San Antonio River. It is listed on the US Government’s National Register of Historic Places. A range of architectural styles can be seen across its one square black and 25 shops and galleries featuring locally made products and four restaurants. Make sure you check out La Villita’s busy events calendar before you visit.

6. Go Shopping at Historic Market Square

This three-block outdoor plaza is full of shops and restaurants and is the largest Mexican market in the United States. If you are looking to buy souvenirs, Market Square is the place to go. It contains over 100 locally owned businesses and often features live entertainment and dancing.

7. Go West at the Briscoe Western Art Museum

This quirky museum is focused on the American West. The art celebrates the stories of cowboys and Native Americans and the beauty of the Western landscape. The Briscoe Western Art Museum has both permanent galleries and interesting exhibitions. Don’t miss my favorite part of the museum, the McNutt Sculpture Garden.

8. Don’t Miss the Buckhorn Saloon & Museum

The Buckhorn Saloon was one of my favorite places to visit in San Antonio. The Buckhorn is several experiences in one: an old-west themed working Saloon, a Texas Ranger Museum, a collection of exotic animals (taxidermy) and a Carnival of Curiosities. I can’t imagine how anyone came up with the idea of combining all of these things in one location but they did and it is great, quirky fun. Don’t miss this eccentric San Antonio attraction!

9. Enjoy a Night at the Majestic Theatre

The Majestic is San Antonio’s oldest theatre. Built in 1929, The Majestic is the place to go to see some of the hottest acts and musicals in San Antonio.

10. Capture the moment at the Texas Selfie Museum

With over 25 installations and professional lighting, the Texas Selfie Museum is the place to capture some flattering memories of your trip to San Antonio. Visitors can bring professional cameras or just their phones. There are loads of options with different backgrounds and props galore.

11. Immerse Yourself at Hopscotch

Hopscotch brings together artists from across the United States (and many from Texas) to create immersive art experiences collaboratively. The San Antonio branch has 15 immersive experiences, a bar that serves Texas-based beverages inspired by the experiences and a range of one-off events and food experiences.

12. Visit the San Antonio Museum of Art

Located just north of downtown on the River Walk, the San Antonio Museum of Art is known for having the most comprehensive collection of Greek, Roman and Egyptian Art in the southern United States. The museum also has a wing dedicated to Asian art, and best of all there is an excellent selection of art from Texas in the contemporary galleries.

13. Experience the Ultimate Tex Mex

Unsurprisingly, there are loads of Mexican and tex-mex restaurants in San Antonio and the quality is generally high. Here are a few that stand

Garcia’s Mexican – known for their tex-mex comfort good. Enjoy a brisket taco with eggs for breakfast or lunch. Check out the smoked pork taco.
Acenar – contemporary Mexican over several levels with a great reputation and a Riverwalk location. Don’t miss the short-rib tacos.
Lala’s Gorditas – the standard for the puffy taco.

14. Get Scared on a Ghost Tour

Did you know that San Antonio is the most haunted city in Texas? For hundreds of years, locals have told ghost stories. For a unique and spooky experience, consider taking a ghost tour of San Antonio.

If you’re looking for a unique place to stay in San Antonio check out Cozycozy. It offers a wide range of accommodation options, from hotels to apartments and from cottages to treehouses.

14 Best Things to do in Downtown San Antonio