The Ultimate San Antonio Weekend Getaway
We just got back from an incredible trip to San Antonio, and let me tell you—it was the perfect mix of fun and education. Even our kids were totally into it!
From exploring the iconic Alamo to strolling along the River Walk, San Antonio kept us entertained the entire time.
If you’re planning a San Antonio weekend getaway, three days is the sweet spot.
It gives you enough time to experience the city’s rich history, family-friendly attractions, and amazing food scene without feeling rushed.
In this guide, I’ll cover everything you need to plan your trip—the best things to do, where to stay, must-visit restaurants, and (of course) where to find the best coffee. ☕️
Day 1: San Antonio Missions, The Alamo and Hopscotch
*Disclaimer: Some of the links in this post are affiliate links. This means if you click on the link and purchase the item, I will receive an affiliate commission at no cost to you. All opinions remain my own.
→Okay, before we get too far, I want to make sure you know about the San Antonio CityPASS! It’s a great way to get discounted admission into some of the best attractions in the area! You can choose admission to four attractions out of several options.
➡️ Get Your San Antonio CityPASS to Save on the Best Attractions Here! ⬅️
Morning: San Antonio Missions
Let’s kick things off with the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park—hands down, my favorite part of our trip.
I’ll be honest, I knew we should visit them since they’re such a big part of the city’s history, but I wasn’t super excited about it at first.
That all changed within minutes of stepping into the first mission. The history, the architecture, and the atmosphere made it one of the best parts of our trip!
First, you’ll want to head to the San Antonio Missions Visitor Center at Mission San José, which is run by the National Park Service.
This is the perfect place to begin your morning, as it offers helpful information, exhibits, and a short film about the missions’ history.
👉 If you’re traveling with kids, be sure to pick up a Junior Ranger Book at the visitor center. As they explore the missions, they can complete activities in the book, then return it once finished to earn an official Junior Ranger badge—a fun (and free!) souvenir.
Guided Tours & Self-Guided Exploration
One of the highlights of our trip was the ranger-led tour of Mission San José.
These free tours are typically offered at 10:00 AM and 11:00 AM daily, but double-check with the visitor center for the latest schedule. Our guide did an amazing job bringing the history of the missions to life, making it engaging for both adults and kids.
If you prefer to explore at your own pace, you can tour all four missions on your own.
We visited each one and highly recommend doing the same if you have time! But if you need to narrow it down, Mission San José and Mission Concepción were our favorites.
Each mission has a beautifully preserved church, which is open to visitors daily from 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM.
Getting Around the Missions
The missions are not too far apart, with only 1 to 3 miles between each. Free parking is available at all four sites, making it easy to drive from one to the next.
But if you’re up for a little adventure, consider renting a city bike and riding along the scenic Mission Trail, which connects all four sites. (We didn’t do this, since there were no child-sized bikes available.)
We spent about three hours exploring the missions, and it was one of the most memorable parts of our trip.
Not only did we learn a lot about Texas history, but the missions themselves were absolutely stunning. Whether you’re a history buff, a photographer, or just looking for a unique experience, this is a must-do in San Antonio!
⬇️ Check out our video of our trip to the Missions here! ⬇️
Lunch: Pinkerton’s BBQ
Y’all, do not skip lunch at Pinkerton’s! This family-style barbecue joint serves up some of the best BBQ I’ve ever had—and that’s saying something, because I’m from Oklahoma!
We went all in and tried the brisket, chicken, turkey, coleslaw, bacon mac and cheese 🤤, potato salad, and baked beans. And as if that wasn’t enough, they even threw in some burnt ends for free (which were amazing).
Yes, there might be a line out the door, but trust me—it’s worth it. Plus, there’s a green space right outside the restaurant if your kids need to run around for a bit.
Located right downtown, Pinkerton’s has a paid parking lot across the street (about $25).
Afternoon: The Alamo
No weekend getaway to San Antonio is complete without a visit to The Alamo, one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
While it’s technically another Spanish mission, it’s best known as the site of the Battle of the Alamo, a pivotal event in Texas history.
I have to admit, I was surprised when we arrived—it’s right in the middle of busy downtown San Antonio, surrounded by modern buildings, which wasn’t what I expected.
It’s also smaller than I imagined, but standing in front of the iconic building was still a neat experience.
Planning Your Visit
- Cost: Free to enter the church, but you must reserve a free timed-entry ticket in advance on The Alamo’s website.
- Parking: Nearby lots cost around $25 for the afternoon.
- Tour Options: You can purchase tickets for an audio tour, a guided tour, or access to the Alamo Exhibit, but we opted to explore on our own.
Even without the extra tours, we still learned a lot from the informational displays scattered throughout the grounds and inside the church.
One of the highlights for our kids was seeing actors dressed as soldiers from the time period, who were on-site to interact with visitors. They even put on a musket demonstration, which was a huge hit!
We spent 60 to 90 minutes walking around, taking in the history, and snapping photos of this legendary site.
Evening: Hopscotch
One spot we were really looking forward to visiting was Hopscotch, an immersive art experience featuring interactive exhibits, light installations, and fun, mind-bending displays.
Unfortunately, in a classic travel planning mishap, I had it on our itinerary for Tuesday—only to realize too late that they’re closed every Tuesday and Wednesday. So, learn from my mistake and double-check the hours before you go!
Even though we didn’t get to visit, based on my research, I highly recommend checking it out, and I think it definitely deserves a spot on your San Antonio weekend getaway.
It’s one of the most highly-rated attractions in the city, and it’s already at the top of our list for next time!
Day 2: Hemisfair, Japanese Tea Gardens and The River Walk
Morning: Hemisfair and Japanese Tea Gardens
Start your day by exploring Hemisfair, a beautiful urban park in the heart of San Antonio.
With walking trails, green spaces, and a fantastic play area, it’s a great spot for families. Plus, there’s a parking lot close by that is only $2 for a short visit.
Our kids loved the playground so much that we actually went back for a second visit!
While they played, I grabbed a lavender latte from Commonwealth, a charming café nearby, and it was absolutely delicious—the perfect thing to sip on while watching the kids climb, swing, and explore.
If you’re visiting on a hot day, there’s even a splash pad to help little ones cool off. And if you’re in the mood for a great meal, Box St. All Day, a popular brunch spot serving brunch all day, is right there by the park.
Next, head over to the Japanese Tea Garden, a free and beautifully landscaped spot that’s perfect for a peaceful stroll.
You won’t need more than 30 minutes to an hour to explore, making it a quick and easy stop.
With its lush gardens, koi-filled ponds, cascading waterfall, and native Japanese plants throughout, it’s a stunning place to wander and take in the scenery.
There’s free parking available right at the entrance, and restrooms are conveniently located on-site.
Lunch: The Pearl
The Pearl is the perfect spot for lunch, especially if each person in your family is craving something different.
Home to the historic Pearl Brewery, the Pearl District is a gathering place for families and friends to play and eat in a beautiful, urban atmosphere.
Our kids grabbed pizza in the Pearl food hall, which features around six different eateries, while my husband and I had a delicious quiche at Bakery Lorraine. (💡Make sure you try the chocolate croissant! 🥐)
After lunch, we relaxed in the green space which is located right in the middle of the Pearl District. Our kids ran around playing tag while my husband and I sat at a shaded table to chat.
There is also a splash pad right next to the green space which is much-needed on those hot San Antonio afternoons!
Afternoon: River Cruise Along The River Walk
A river cruise along the San Antonio River Walk is a fun and relaxing way to take in the sights—and it’s even included in the San Antonio CityPASS!
The boats run seven days a week, with a new one loading up constantly, so you’ll never have to wait long.
The ride lasts about 30 minutes, and along the way, your guide shares history and fascinating facts about the landmarks and buildings lining the River Walk.
Our kids loved the ride, and it was such a great way to see the city from a different perspective. Whether it’s your first visit or you’ve been to San Antonio before, the river cruise is a must-do!
Dinner: Eat Along the River Walk
Stay downtown for a delicious dinner on the River Walk, where you’ll find plenty of great dining options with scenic views.
→ My top recommendation is Domingo Restaurant—its beautiful outdoor seating and incredible menu make it a standout. Plus, it’s one of the highest-rated restaurants in San Antonio!
Day 3: Food Tour, Witte Museum & Market Square
Morning: Downtown San Antonio Food Tour
Fellow foodies, this one’s for you!
If you want to taste your way through San Antonio’s best local eats while soaking in the city’s rich history, a food tour is the way to go.
This popular food tour takes you on an adventure through Downtown San Antonio, where you’ll sample authentic Tex-Mex at family-owned spots—far from the usual tourist traps.
As you feast on handmade Hispanic specialties, you’ll also pass landmarks like the Alamo, San Fernando Cathedral, and the River Walk with a knowledgable guide leading the way.
Trust me, this tour is a must!
➡️ 🌮 Treat Your Belly To a San Antonio Food Tour! 🌮 ⬅️
Afternoon: Witte Museum and Historic Market Square
Witte Museum
The Witte Museum is a San Antonio favorite! It was one of the most educational and engaging museums we’ve been to.
Our kids were especially fascinated by the massive dinosaur skeletons and had a blast exploring the cowboy exhibit, which brought Texas history to life in such a fun way.
The museum covers science, nature, and Texas heritage, making it a great stop for families. Plus, parking is a breeze with a free parking garage nearby.
And for the perfect sweet treat afterward, head just around the corner to Black and White Creamery—our top recommendation for ice cream in San Antonio!
Historic Market Square
Spend your afternoon exploring Historic Market Square, the largest Mexican market in the U.S.
Filled with shops and restaurants, this vibrant, colorful plaza has such a fun atmosphere and is bursting with energy.
When we visited, there was live music, and our kids loved the immersive experience of seeing, hearing, and tasting Hispanic culture all around them.
Parking can be tricky on busy days, and you’ll want to be prepared with cash, as we found these lots do not accept card for payment.
Dinner: Enjoy Delicious Tex-Mex
Wrap up your time at Market Square with dinner at La Margarita Mexican Restaurant, a local favorite known for its delicious Tex-Mex and famous sizzling fajitas.
We grabbed a spot on the outdoor patio, which was perfect for soaking in the lively atmosphere.
The food was fresh and flavorful, and our kids all gave it two thumbs up—a true sign of a great meal!
Other Things to Do
If you have extra time or want to swap out some activities, here are a few more fun spots to check out:
- The DoSeum – A hands-on children’s museum packed with interactive exhibits that encourage learning through play. We visited this museum, and while it is a fun place to visit, it was a little young for our kids. I would recommend it for younger kids, ages 3-8.
- San Antonio Botanical Garden – A beautiful 38-acre garden featuring walking trails, themed gardens, and a fun Family Adventure Garden.
- SeaWorld San Antonio – Experience marine life up close, plus thrilling rides, live shows, and water attractions.
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas – A must for thrill-seekers, this amusement park has roller coasters, water rides, and live entertainment.
- Natural Bridge Caverns – Explore stunning underground caves, go gem mining, or tackle the outdoor adventure course. Buy tickets here.
- San Antonio Zoo – Home to over 750 species, this zoo offers up-close animal encounters and a fun train ride for kids. Located close to the Japanese Tea Gardens. Buy tickets here.
- San Antonio Museum of Art – A world-class art museum with pieces from around the globe, including an impressive Latin American collection.
San Antonio CityPASS
Purchasing the CityPASS gives you entrance to four of the best San Antonio attractions at a discount!
You are able to choose four attractions out of eight great options including The Alamo Exhibit, Witte Museum, Go Rio River Cruise, the San Antonio Botanical Garden and more.
➡️ Get Your San Antonio CityPASS and Save Big! ⬅️
Where to Stay
- Vacation Rentals – Vacation rentals are perfect for families and San Antonio has some incredible options! Check out VRBO in San Antonio to find the perfect house for your family. I always look for rentals with a great kitchen so we can make a few meals ourselves, and extra things for the kids to do such as games, books and toys.
- Hotels – Check out the gorgeous hotels in downtown San Antonio such as Hilton Palacio Del Rio, Hyatt Regency Riverwalk, and The Emily Morgan (which is in a gorgeous historic building!)
Tips for Visiting San Antonio
- Be prepared for the heat – San Antonio can get very hot, especially in the summer. Take advantage of shaded areas, indoor attractions, and water activities like splash pads to help kids stay cool.
- Parking can be pricey – Most downtown parking costs at least $25, and some lots require cash, so be prepared.
- Save money with a CityPASS – Visiting multiple attractions can add up, so consider the San Antonio CityPASS for big savings on top spots like the River Walk boat cruise, the DoSeum, and the San Antonio Zoo.
- Wear comfortable shoes – Many of San Antonio’s best attractions, like the River Walk and Market Square, require a lot of walking, so comfy footwear is a good idea!
San Antonio is an incredible educational destination with history, culture, amazing food, and plenty of family-friendly fun packed into one trip.
This itinerary is designed to help you make the most of your time in San Antonio. Mix and match our ideas to create the perfect weekend for your family!
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