For a first visit, I recommend spending at least three full days in San Antonio. If you can stay longer, do so, as there is plenty to keep you busy. This vibrant city has something for everyone, and you'll quickly realize that this won't be your last trip there. The San Antonio Pass gives you the flexibility to create your own itinerary, so you can choose from the main attractions and create a vacation tailored to your interests.
The Market is one of the best places to enjoy authentic Mexican food and music and immerse yourself in one of the cultures that has had a great influence on San Antonio. This area houses more than 100 locally owned stores and shops. The San Antonio Botanical Garden offers an even deeper experience among native Texas plants, exotic and endangered species, and greenhouses. With good weather, great walking shoes, and some well-placed Uber rides, you can technically get by for the first few days of this San Antonio itinerary without a car.
However, realistically, this is a city to drive and unless you're very committed to not driving here, it's best to rent a car (or bring your own) to get around. The last of your three days in San Antonio includes a visit to some of the city's mansions, a visit to a 300-year-old mission, and much more. Dedicated to inspiring curiosity and educating the public about animals, the San Antonio Zoo is a fun educational and entertainment experience for children and adults alike. Located in a former brewery, the San Antonio Museum of Art houses one of the largest and most impressive art collections in the Southern United States, including collections of Egyptian, Greek and Roman art.
The best times to attend festivals in San Antonio include April (Fiesta), November (Day of the Dead) and December (the Riverwalk is known for its incredible Christmas lights). The first Spanish mission founded along the San Antonio River is better known as the site of a battle during the Texas Revolution. All of the missions are connected to each other via a hiking and biking trail. If the weather isn't too hot, renting bikes to travel between missions is a fun way to explore San Antonio (if it's unpleasantly hot, you might prefer to drive between some of the missions). Plan to add some of the attractions mentioned above to your San Antonio itinerary to make the most of your trip to Texas.
One of the best things to do in San Antonio is to go to the Tower of the Americas to see the city from above. The second day of this San Antonio itinerary begins with a return to nature and a visit to some of the city's open spaces while enjoying (more) great food and drinks along the way. If you're looking for a quiet hotel with a boutique atmosphere close to the San Antonio waterfront, you can't go wrong staying at the popular and charming O'Brien Boutique Hotel. This accommodation is located one block from the Riverwalk and a short walk from Little Village and the Alamo. Fredericksburg is just over an hour from San Antonio and is known for its German heritage (and food), its many nearby wineries, its excellent stores (especially antiques), its peaches and for being close to the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. San Antonio has something for everyone - from exploring its vibrant culture at The Market or Botanical Garden, visiting its many mansions or museums, attending festivals like Fiesta or Day of the Dead, or simply admiring its stunning views from Tower of Americas.
With three full days in this amazing city, you can make sure that you don't miss out on any of its attractions. And if you have more time on your hands - even better! Renting a car or taking an Uber ride will help you make sure that you don't miss out on anything during your stay in San Antonio.
