5 Free Things to do in San Antonio
San Antonio is a great city with so much to offer. Plus there is so much to do for free!
I’m sorry visiting the Alamo doesn’t make the list! Of course, it is a must-do and it is free but I wanted to uncover the lesser-known free places to visit in San Antonio. Go see the Alamo!
Onto my top five favorite free things to do in San Antonio:
1. Japanese Tea Gardens
The Tea Gardens, or Sunken Gardens some may call it, is one of my favorites places in San Antonio. Like all the places on this list, it is free to go.
The Japanese Tea Gardens consist of a large beautiful park full of stone bridges, waterfalls, koi ponds, a café, and an abundance of beautiful plants and flowers. Plenty of shade and seating can be found under the pagoda but lots of little paths and trails exist throughout the park to explore as well.
I love just strolling the paths and taking in the scenery and nature then stopping at the Jingu House Café for a delicious bubble tea and yummy sandwich.
2. San Antonio | The Saga
This is by far one of the coolest things I have ever seen, not exaggerating! San Antonio | The Saga is an incredible video/art projection that was created by artist Xavier de Richemont and is projected onto the San Fernando Cathedral in the Main Plaza downtown.
I promise you will not be disappointed after attending this! The Saga last 24 min and tells the story of San Antonio. The showings are free and open to the public on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday and Sunday at 9:00pm, 9:30pm, and 10:00pm.
3. San Antonio River Walk
Of course the River Walk is a MUST DO when visiting San Antonio. The wonderful culture, sweet sound of mariachi bands, numerous restaurants, shops, beautiful landscaping, etc. is by far San Antonio’s most popular attraction.
My first couple times down at the River Walk I felt a little overwhelmed with everything there was to see; miles of sidewalk, multiple different directions to go down and wondering what all the must see places were.
The point is:
I HIGHLY recommend buying tickets to take a ride on the Go Rio Boat Cruises. The tickets are around $10 (depending on your age) and worth every penny. Your tour guide takes you all along the river walk so you can see everything it has to offer from your comfy little seat. The tour guides also provide lots of history and cultural background knowledge that is very interesting to learn.
4. San Antonio Missions
The San Antonio Missions is not only a National Historical Park but also a World Heritage Site established by the United Nations. These sites are a must see when in San Antonio.
I’m a huge history buff so the Missions get me excited but even if history isn’t your thing each Mission provides a beautiful space to enjoy the outdoors, culture, and the beautiful architect of the buildings.
Basically:
Four missions make up this National Park: Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan, and Missions Espada. The Spaniards built these missions in the 17th and 18th century to colonize the area.
It’s very easy to explore the Missions whether you decide to bike, walk or drive, they are only about 2.5 miles apart.
If you only have time and/or interest to do one, Mission Concepcion (pictured above) is my favorite! After you have explored all the historical buildings (including the still active church) inside Mission Concepcion, there is plenty of grass and shade to pack a picnic, relax in the open space and enjoy all the beauty that surrounds you.
5. San Pedro Springs
Let’s face it…San Antonio summers provide scorching temperatures usually reaching triple digits.
If we are outside during the summer months it has to involve water of some kind and San Pedro Springs is perfect for those wanting to cool off!
Again, like everything on this list, it is completely free to get into San Pedro Springs.
All you need to do is:
Bring your swimsuits and your towels, the large cypress trees provide the shade and the springs provide the cool water.
San Pedro Springs is also the second oldest park in the country dating back to the 1700s (you know I always have to throw in a historical fact).
Well there you have it – my five favorite free fun things to do…(try saying that three times fast)!
Meet Kaila:
Kaila writes about all things travel, lifestyle, and how to market your business. For more tips and free trainings on how to start a business online – you can follow Kaila on Instagram @kaila.ruan
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