San Antonio, often overshadowed by its Texan counterparts, deserves a spotlight for being a hidden gem, especially for those seeking a clean, kid-friendly, and activity-packed family getaway destination. Recently, my family and I had the pleasure of exploring this vibrant city and was pleasantly surprised by its charm and hospitality. There are so many things to do in San Antonio with kids, and here are a few of them.
Hotel Stay: Hyatt Regency on the Riverwalk
Our accommodation at the Hyatt Regency on the Riverwalk set the stage for a convenient and delightful stay. Situated within walking distance to key attractions, this location proved ideal for exploring the city on foot. While the rooftop pool was a nice touch, its compact size didn’t overshadow the overall positive experience.
Activities: Making the Most of the Go City Pass
Our decision to invest in the Go City Pass proved to be a game-changer. This pass not only streamlined our access to various attractions but also offered a budget-friendly option for families. Here are some highlights:
1.The Alamo: Historic Icon A visit to The Alamo, a symbol of Texan resilience, is a must. While general admission is free, consider opting for special exhibits with advanced reservations for a more immersive experience.
2. The DoSeUm: Imaginative Play The DoSeUm, a children’s museum, provided a half-day of joy for our 8-year-old and 6-year-old. The reciprocal benefit with the Chicago Children’s Museum added extra value to our visit.
3. San Antonio Zoo No family adventure is complete without a visit to the San Antonio Zoo. Explore the diverse array of wildlife and engage in unforgettable animal encounters. It’s a delight for both kids and adults.
4. Missions Tour: Historical Exploration The Missions Tour, a Go City Pass gem, stands out as a comprehensive and informative experience. The convenience of hotel pick-up and a five-hour tour made it a family-friendly highlight.
5. Science Museum: Educational Delight The Science Museum, utilizing our reciprocal Museum of Science and Industry membership, offered an engaging exploration of science and technology.
6. River Walk Boat Tour: Scenic Adventure While relatively short, the River Walk boat tour provided a picturesque overview, complemented by a leisurely stroll along the river afterward.
7. Natural Caverns: Day-Long Excursion Took a little drive which allowed us to explore the Natural Caverns, a captivating destination that could easily fill a day. Adjacent to the Wild Zoo, it’s a perfect outing for nature enthusiasts.
8. The Saga at San Fernando Cathedral: Artful Projection Don’t miss The Saga, a mesmerizing art projection onto the San Fernando Cathedral. Best of all, it’s free and showcases the artistic spirit of the city.
9. SeaWorld San Antonio: Dive into aquatic fun at SeaWorld, where your kids can check out orcas, playful dolphins, and fascinating marine life. With thrilling rides, entertaining shows, and interactive exhibits, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
10. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch: Kick off your family adventure with a thrilling drive-through safari at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. Located just outside of San Antonio, this 400-acre ranch is home to so many animals from around the world. Kids will delight in spotting zebras, giraffes, ostriches, and more as they roam freely in their natural habitats. Choose from their Safari Rover or Safari Shuttle for a private tour through the Wildlife Ranch lead by one of their animal specialists. Don’t forget to purchase a bag of feed to hand-feed some of the friendly creatures along the way!
11. Tower of the Americas: Elevate your San Antonio experience with a visit to the iconic Tower of the Americas. Standing at 750 feet tall, this towering landmark offers breathtaking views of the city skyline. Take a ride to the top in the glass-enclosed elevator, then step out onto the observation deck for a bird’s-eye perspective of San Antonio’s landmarks and attractions. Kids will love spotting familiar sights and landmarks from above!
12. Witte Museum: Spark curiosity and imagination at the Witte Museum, where learning comes to life through interactive exhibits and engaging programs. Kids can explore Texas history, science, and culture through hands-on activities, immersive displays, and live demonstrations. From dinosaur fossils to pioneer artifacts, there’s no shortage of fascinating discoveries to be made at this family-friendly museum.
13. Six Flags Fiesta Texas: Get ready for a day of adrenaline-pumping thrills at Six Flags Fiesta Texas. The park features a wide range of rides and attractions, from heart-stopping roller coasters to family-friendly favorites. Kids can cool off in the water park section or test their bravery on rides like the Iron Rattler and Superman: Krypton Coaster. With something for everyone, Six Flags is sure to be a hit with the whole family.
Some restaurant favorites in San Antonio:
No visit is complete without savoring the local flavors. Here are some dining highlights:
- Mi Tierra: Tex Mex Extravaganza Touristy but irresistible, Mi Tierra offers great Tex Mex food, accompanied by a lively atmosphere with Mariachi music and a delightful bakery.
- Pinkerton’s BBQ: Delicious and Kid-Friendly Pinkerton’s BBQ impressed with delicious offerings, and the outdoor space provided a perfect playground for the kids.
- BBQ Shark: Culinary Excellence Proximity to the museums makes BBQ Shark a convenient and tasty choice for families on the go.
Whether you’re planning a long family vacation or a weekend getaway, San Antonio has much to offer.
