Spring is here and summer is right around the corner. Texas is known for cowboy boots, barbecue, and the warm Texas sun. San Antonio is a perfect place for outdoorsy travelers. If you are looking for a San Antonio experience that is all about the kids, check out this great guide. Whether you want to hike, fish, camp, or relax with a margarita and people watch, The Alamo City is the place for you!

Mission Trail

Rent a bike or bring your walking shoes for this great hike and bike trail around the city that takes you to the five San Antonio Missions. Starting at the famous Alamo and ending at Mission Espada, this trail takes you past historic buildings in the city and along the San Antonio River. Learn about the history of the Missions, many of which are hundreds of years old and the various irrigation systems that were created to carry water. For a guide to the trail- link below:
https://www.nps.gov/saan/planyourvisit/upload/SAANmap1.pdf

Sip and Snack on a Patio

San Antonio’s downtown is filled with restaurants and bars that have outdoor patios. Many of the San Antonio Riverwalk hotels have restaurants and you can enjoy a cold beverage or meal while watching people stroll by. Venture into Southtown for a cold beer, classy cocktail, or lunch. Rent a bike and explore the historical neighborhood’s art galleries and shops or take a photo in front of the many historical buildings.

Cruise Down the Riverwalk

Looking for a more relaxing way to enjoy the Texas sun? Take a River Walk cruise! Sit back and learn about the history of the River Walk and how it became the tourist destination it is today. Or just use the river shuttle that takes you from the River Walk to the Historic Pearl. Also, dinner cruises are offered if you are looking for date night idea. For more romantic destinations in San Antonio, this guide can help.

Pearl Farmers Market

Historic Pearl was once the home of Pearl brewery and has now become a top shopping and foodie spot. Every weekend they have a farmers market featuring local fare and area artisans.

Sip and Hike in the Hill Country

A short drive from San Antonio is the Texas Hill Country-home to hundreds of wineries, perfect wildflower photo ops, and state parks for hiking and camping. Some favorite spots are Enchanted Rock for hiking and camping, Fredericksburg for sipping wine with the squad. For a guide to the Hill Country near San Antonio click here. Many State parks are in the Hill Country and around San Antonio. Lost Maples, Guadalupe State Park and The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park are prime destinations for camping and experiencing the Texas outdoors. At LBJ State park you can also experience blacksmithing, cow milking and gardening with the staff dressed in authentic 1800’s costume.

Go to a San Antonio Missions Game

Spend an afternoon in the city cheering along with the locals. San Antonio’s baseball team the Missions have been playing since the 1800s! Also, this year they are the official Minor League affiliate of the San Diego Padres.

Cave Without a Name

80 feet below ground is one of San Antonio’s greatest secrets. With large caverns that can be toured and even rented for private parties, it is a one-of-a-kind experience. Concerts are held periodically in the cavern called the Throne Room and are not to be missed.

Stroll Through the Historic Market Square

Walk through El Mercado and enjoy see the many artisans sitting along the buildings. Also, grab a cold drink and a taco and take an opportunity to support local business owners and artists. From clothing, pottery, jewelry, and food, the Market Square has it all. Fun fact: Mi Tierra is one of the oldest restaurants (80 years) in San Antonio and features live Mariachi music! So, grab one of their famous margaritas and sit back while you are serenaded by Mariachis. Or attend the farmers market each week for a selection of local produce and goods.

Cibolo Nature Center

Take a dip in the creek, have a picnic under the cypress trees, or see the dinosaur tracks. Cibolo Nature Reserve is great spot for San Antonio family trips and lazy afternoons spent in the shade of native trees of Texas. Also walk on over to Herff Farms and experience their weekly farmers market on an actual farm from the 1850s!

Fishing at Braunig Lake

Red Drum, Catfish, and Bass, oh my! The fishing at Lake Braunig is sure to be plentiful and nothing is more fun then getting a little Texas sun while out fishin’ on the lake. Tips and tricks for catching those local fish below:
https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/fish/recreational/lakes/braunig/

Ready to pack your bags, fishing poles, bathing suit and favorite sunhat? Check out these San Antonio Riverwalk hotel deals and make your vacation planning easy and convenient.