Named after Saint Anthony of Padua, a Portuguese priest, San Antonio is the first chartered civil settlement and oldest municipality in Texas. Show
About 32 million tourists fly or drive to San Antonio for its famous River Walk, mission trails, Hispanic and Native American culture, and verdant scenery. Surprisingly, the excitement-filled destination that is San Antonio isn’t just for travelers with deep pockets! There’s a treasure trove of fun free things to do in San Antonio, TX, waiting for wanderers on a tight budget. For a vacation filled with unforgettable glimpses to the past without the worry of paying a single admission fee, here’s a guide that takes you all over San Antonio and beyond — for free. 1. River Walk849 E Commerce Street The historic San Antonio River, documented and named since 1535, has seen many waves of settlements and battles. Today it is a charming five-mile tourist attraction. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityThe River Walk is San Antonio’s premier destination for sightseeing, shopping, dining, and celebrating. Sometimes known as Paseo del Rio, the San Antonio RiverWalk is lined with trees, shops, restaurants, hotels, and museums, connecting many of the attractions in San Antonio. Expert TipThe River Walk comes to life in bursts of lights and colors with festivals such as Fiesta Noche del Rio, Fiesta de Las Luminarias, and many others. Check their calendar to witness one. There might be something scheduled right this weekend. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Hyatt San Antonio Related: Best Things to Do in San Antonio 2. The Alamo300 Alamo Plaza The Alamo today is the site of a battle that happened between Texians and Mexicans in 1836. It was first known as the Misión San Antonio de Valero when the mission was established in 1718. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityLooking for free activities in San Antonio? The Alamo’s 30-minute self-guided tours incur no fees or charges. The Alamo played a major part in the birth of San Antonio and had an interesting transition from being a Spanish mission church to a military garrison that served five different armies. If you’re curious about San Antonio’s nickname being Military City USA, the Alamo is your answer. Expert TipReserve your visit to explore the iconic church at no cost. To give you an idea about what lies ahead, there are exhibits, a Phil Collins collection, a courtyard, and a plaza at the Alamo showing you glimpses of the Texas Revolution. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Emma at Pearl on the Riverwalk 3. Brackenridge Park3700 N St. Mary’s Street Created in 1899, the Brackenridge Park currently spans 343 acres of enchanting public space. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityBrackenridge Park was built as a charming haven for San Antonio locals and should be enjoyed by the city’s visitors too. Home to iconic San Antonio attractions and playgrounds, pavilions, walking trails, and baseball fields, Brackenridge Park offers you much of the free fun in San Antonio. Expert TipIf you’re into watching bards, head over to the southeast of the park along Avenue A and you’ll see a wealth of species flying free among the trees. Meanwhile, history buffs will also love the park’s historical structures and prehistoric significance. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk Also See: 4. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park2202 Roosevelt Avenue What is now San Antonio was born through the establishment of missions in 1718. Through the course of 13 years, Franciscans built five mission complexes along the San Antonio River, four of which are part of today’s historical park (the fifth being the standalone Alamo). Why We Recommend This Free ActivitySetting foot on this historical park is retracing the footsteps of the Spaniards and Franciscans in the 1700s. The area is a stretch of nine miles along the river, with the four historical missions completely in-tact. These are the Missions San José, San Juan, Espada, and Concepción. Expert TipStart three miles south of downtown to see Mission Concepción, and then two and a half miles farther for Mission San José. Three miles beyond is Mission San Juan. Farthest south is Mission Espada. Each mission provides access to Wi-Fi for the audio guides. Picnic tables and parking areas are also available at each mission. Best of all, this entire experience is actually one of the top free stuff to do in the city! If you’re after educational experiences but are on a budget, this is it. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni La Mansion del Rio 5. San Antonio Museum of Art200 W Jones Avenue Located downtown, the San Antonio Museum of Art is housed in what was the Lone Star Brewery from 1886. Why We Recommend This Free ActivitySAMA is actually the only encyclopedic museum of fine art in South Texas, so if you’re an art junkie, you shouldn’t miss this activity. If you’re both an art enthusiast and a Bexar County resident, you get to tour this gem for free on Tuesdays from 4pm to 7pm, and Sundays from 10am to 12pm! The 30,000-item collection inside spans over 5,000 years of culture and history from all over the world, dating from the Bronze Age to the contemporary era. Expert TipActive duty military members (including National Guard and Reserve) and their families get free admission from Memorial Day through Labor Day with presentation of a military ID (good for up to five people). Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Emma at Pearl on the Riverwalk 6. King William Historic District1032 S. Alamo Street In the 1840s, a wave of wealthy German merchants settled in the 1790s irrigated farmlands owned by the Mission San Antonio de Valero (now known as the Alamo). Why We Recommend This Free ActivityThe arrival of these Germans birthed a luxurious neighborhood populated by ornate mansions exhibiting Greek Revival, Victorian, and Italianate architecture. If you’re a historical fiction enthusiast, you’ll find yourself yearning to live in one of these gorgeous houses. Expert TipStop by every mansion you see for pictures. It’s totally free! Along the streets are cafes and art galleries, some of which host lively, family-friendly events. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Marriott Plaza San Antonio 7. San Antonio Art League and Museum130 King William Street Speaking of museums at the King William Historic District, the San Antonio Art League and Museum is one that you shouldn’t skip, especially because admission is totally free! Why We Recommend This Free ActivitySAALM is actually the oldest arts organization in San Antonio that currently calls an 1800s carriage house its home. Featuring a large collection of Texan art across various disciplines, all free to view, SAALM is definitely a worthy visit. Expert TipCheck their online calendar to see what’s up in their galleries. There could be shows and demonstrations where artists create their works live. These are all still free! Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Palacio del Rio Also See:
8. Japanese Tea Garden3853 N. St. Mary’s Street What used to be an abandoned limestone rock quarry donated by the 1899 president of the San Antonio Water Works Company was transformed into a charming Oriental garden in 1918. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityThe city invited a Japanese-American artist and his family to move into the garden in 1919. During their residence, the family opened the Bamboo Room, now the Jingu House Cafe, where you can enjoy the flavors of Japanese cuisine. Expert TipBecause of its idyllic scenery, the tea garden is frequented by tourists, particularly lovers. If you’re traveling with your significant other, the Japanese Tea Garden is among the top free places to go in San Antonio for couples looking to be wed or to renew their vows. The garden also has a poignant story to tell, so relish your time here and learn about the family behind it. Recommended Hotel Nearby: San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter 9. Market Square514 W. Commerce The area where the Historic Market Square is located dates back to 1730, when the king of Spain gave it as a gift to the first Spanish settlers of San Antonio. Since its early years, locals have been selling food and wares here, creating a lively, colorful marketplace setting. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityThis market greets you with a rainbow of buntings, walls, souvenirs, and performers like it’s a dance number in a musical. To the locals, the historic Market Square is not just any marketplace but a living, breathing tradition that everyone should experience. Expert TipIf you ever plan to bring home a souvenir from this vacation, the Historic Market Square tops all the free attractions to visit in San Antonio for unique, cultural items. On the right dates, the historic Market Square features the most interesting free events in San Antonio, where your purchase of mementos will be accompanied by memories of colorful dancers and singing mariachis. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Westin Riverwalk San Antonio 10. The DoSeum2800 Broadway The DoSeum opened in 2015 with the goal of providing accessible learning to low-income San Antonio families through exhibits, programs, and camps designed for children. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityAt DoSeum, children get to be artists, storytellers, engineers, scientists, or entrepreneurs in child-scaled worlds of make-believe. Even you will enjoy each interactive exhibit filled with technology, art, and science as your child eagerly explores them through curiosity and play. Expert TipWhen it’s raining or cold, take the little ones to DoSeum and watch them enjoy all the incredible free things they have to offer. On the other hand, when the weather’s perfect, there’s also fun to be had outdoors. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Wyndham Garden River Walk Museum Reach 11. Pearl Brewery303 Pearl Parkway Looming in the background north of downtown San Antonio is the majestic Hotel Emma, which was previously the titular brewery complex from 1883. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityAside from the fact that this was founded as a brewery district, which obviously means watering holes and wineries abound, the Pearl District is also a historic marvel and cultural hub. Buildings from the 1800s were repurposed to house various restaurants, offices, and touristy shops. Expert TipYou can now stay at the lovely Hotel Emma and enjoy a welcome margarita upon check-in. Industrial equipment from the centuries gone by were turned into vintage-chic decor or functional pieces. This is actually a common theme not only in the hotel but also throughout the district, from the Bottling Department to the Pearl Stable. Explore this Victorian industrial charm by browsing through the district’s shops, restaurants, bars, and farmers market this weekend. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Emma at Pearl on the Riverwalk 12. Institute of Texan Cultures801 E César E. Chávez Boulevard The Institute of Texan Cultures is the whole state’s main center for education on the various cultures that make up Texas. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityTexas is actually home to people from all over the world who bring and celebrate their respective cultures here, contributing to the multicultural identity of the state. Established in 1968, the ITC offers exhibits, programs, and events to educate guests about the locals of Texas. Expert TipCome here on the second Sunday of any month for fun educational activities you can enjoy for free. These Sunday events involve crafts, games, and cultural performances. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Menger Hotel 13. Phil Hardberger Park1021 Voelcker Lane #4 Brought the entire outdoorsy family along with you? Take them to Phil Hardberger Park for free fun in San Antonio, particularly in a lush natural landscape. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityIf exploring the great outdoors is a prerequisite everywhere you travel, Phil Hardberger is the place for you. Enjoying the walking and biking trails, play areas, programs, fitness classes, dog parks, wildlife sightings at Phil Hardberger is totally free for everyone! Expert TipThere are no eateries and drinking fountains around, so bring your own snacks and water and enjoy picnics at designated areas. There are also no trash cans, so pack trash in and pack trash out. This actually helps the park preserve its natural heritage. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Omni San Antonio Hotel At The Colonnade Related: Best Beaches Near San Antonio, TX 14. Yanaguana Garden434 S Alamo Street Since 2015, Yanaguana Garden has been offering families a confluence of art, nature, and outdoor entertainment. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityYanaguana is a 4.1-acre community park in the Hemisfair District, featuring art installations, play areas, a splash pad for everyone, outdoor games, colorful lights, and outdoor eateries. Visitors across all ages seek Yanaguana for a free respite from the hustle and bustle of downtown. Expert TipYanaguana hosts over 500 free events in the park, such as workout sessions and storytelling activities. Check out their calendar to catch one. Who knows? There could be one this weekend. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Mokara Hotel & Spa 15. San Pedro Creek Culture Park705 Camaron Street Bexar County, the San Antonio River Authority, and the City of San Antonio came together in 2015 with a common vision and goal: create a world-class linear park for the preservation of San Pedro Creek. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityLocated on the western edge of downtown San Antonio, San Pedro Creek Culture Park is a beautiful escape from the Texan sun, where you can be surrounded by interactive art, architecture, nature, and local history. Expert TipStart from the westernmost area of the park to step back in time to the earliest part of San Antonio’s history, which was thousands of years before European colonization. Discover the birth and rebirth of civilizations as you head eastward. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Valencia Riverwalk 16. Witte Museum3801 Broadway Witte Museum was started by Ellen Schultz, a botanist and high school teacher in the 1920s. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityEnough about Spanish colonization. What was the area of San Antonio like before Europeans arrived? Witte Museum takes you further in history to show you the prehistoric landscape and civilization of precolonial San Antonio until its present-day resulting culture. Expert TipPrograms, events, and demonstrations make this experience even more memorable. Witte Museum hosts cooking camps, art workshops, activities involving cocktails, and many more surprises. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The Emily Morgan Hotel – A DoubleTree by Hilton 17. Briscoe Western Art Museum210 W Market Street Along the banks of the historic San Antonio River Walk stands the Briscoe Western Art Museum, whose exhibitions, educational programs, and public events feature the region’s Old West heritage. Why We Recommend This Free ActivitySurely you know by now how both Hispanic and Native American culture and history greatly influenced San Antonio. Let’s not forget, however, the formerly phenomenal Wild West culture, which was the result of the blend of both cultures. Experience the vibe of this bygone era at Briscoe, with the featured artworks and artifacts inside. Expert TipTour for free if you come by on Tuesdays from 4:00 PM to 9:00 PM. Their educational events are particularly stellar, so check their calendar to witness one. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Sheraton Gunter Hotel San Antonio 18. Murals1906 S Flores Street San Antonio’s huge outdoor gallery first started in 2018 and is working diligently toward creating the largest of its kind in Texas. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityThrough social media, art has been given due importance by the youth. This multi-artist open-air gallery, which is the largest outdoor gallery in the Northwest, makes a lovely background for OOTDs to amp up anyone’s Instagram game. The San Antonio Street Art Initiative, the artist-led organization behind it, has completed almost 50 murals and supported over 30 local artists. Expert TipStart at the junction between South PanAm Expressway and St. Mary’s Strip for the most number of murals. Then head straight north to St. Mary’s for more. Whether you’re here for the art or you’re here for the Gram, checking out the murals by the San Antonio Street Art Initiative is among our favorite cheap activities to take part in. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hotel Havana 19. Lakeshore Learning327 Northwest Loop 410 #103 Started in 1954 by one Ethelyn Kaplan, a single mother, Lakeshore Learning started as a toy store and soon began catering to teachers’ needs. Aside from being a retailer of top-quality educational materials for children, Lakeshore Learning now also offers activities and programs. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityIf you’re wondering where to get free stuff in San Antonio, TX, there’s a lovely family-friendly experience waiting for you at Lakeshore Learning. Visit on Saturdays for free crafts and learning events! Expert TipYou may be here for free things in San Antonio, but do remember there’s a wealth of fun educational supplies available for purchase at Lakeshore Learning to continue the learning at home with your kids. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Crowne Plaza Hotel San Antonio Airport 20. McNay Art Museum6000 N New Braunfels Avenue The McNay Art Museum was founded in 1954 and is the first modern art museum that opened in the entire state of Texas. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityModern and contemporary art may not be everyone’s cup of tea, but the McNay Art Museum houses the finest collections of contemporary artworks in the southwestern region of the United States, featuring more than 22,000 objects! Expert TipThe beauty at McNay doesn’t end inside. The museum sits on 23 acres of gorgeous landscaping, offering colonial architecture, fountains, lawns, and a Japanese-inspired garden and fishpond. Enjoy beauty indoors and outdoors for free! Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hilton Garden Inn San Antonio Airport South 21. Quadrangle and Fort Sam Houston Museum1405 East Grayson Street Fort Sam Houston has been around since 1845, keeping within its walls the stories of war and conquest. On the other hand, the quadrangle was constructed in 1876 as the Quartermaster Depot and Headquarters. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityGet to know more about the story behind San Antonio’s nickname, Military City USA. Fort Sam Houston features artifacts, images, and stories on San Antonio’s military history, while the quadrangle is curiously home to deer and other wildlife that roam freely on the property. Expert TipThis historical gem is completely free to experience, but do bring along valid picture IDs to secure entry. Recommended Hotel Nearby: The St. Anthony, a Luxury Collection Hotel, San Antonio 22. Artpace445 N Main Avenue Linda Pace founded Artpace in 1995, occupying what was once a Hudson automobile dealership. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityWhile the previously mentioned art museums focus on Texan art and culture, Artpace supports artists from all over the world in the creation of new art across several forms: paintings, music, films, murals, and many more! Expert TipIf you’re coming in October, you can witness Chalk It Up for yourself. It’s an annual citywide celebration where artists fill Houston Street downtown with chalk drawings! Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Premier Historic Travelers Hotel Alamo/Riverwalk 23. Headwaters Sanctuary4503 Broadway Street The Headwaters Sanctuary spans 53 acres within the University of the Incarnate Word. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityHeadwater Sanctuary is home to the source of the iconic San Antonio River, which is the Blue Hole or the San Antonio Spring. This spring is symbolic to both indigenous peoples and Christians, with water being a spiritual life-giving element of the earth. Expert TipEnjoy nature in its pristine state as you weave through the sanctuary’s trails and learn about San Antonio’s native plants and animals through exploration and interpretive signs along the way. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Plus Downtown North 24. Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio12500 NW Military Highway Advocated by the Jewish Federation of San Antonio, this memorial museum opened its doors in 2000 through efforts that started in 1975. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityThe Holocaust Memorial Museum of San Antonio is a highly important site, one that serves to remind us about the horrors of war and racism. Due to the importance of Holocaust education and awareness, docents tour thousands of guests around the museum every year for free. Expert TipIf you’re easily triggered by traumatic events, it’s best to prepare yourself. The free tours involve a movie, activity, and a Holocaust survivor’s testimony. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Hyatt Place San Antonio Northwest/Medical Center 25. Main Plaza115 N Main Avenue Originally called Plaza de las Islas in the 1730 plan for San Fernando de Bexar, the Main Plaza of San Antonio is considered the cultural and historical heart of the city. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityBeing San Antonio’s cultural hub, the Main Plaza hosts family-friendly programs, events, and musical performances for free to the public. To complete your cultural experience, food trucks are also around every day serving local snacks. Expert TipLooking for costless thrills to witness in San Antonio tonight? The historical San Fernando de Bexar Cathedral is the adjoining church of this traditional Spanish plaza. Since 2014, this cathedral has been hosting a famous jaw-dropping lights show on the nights of Tuesdays, Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays! The free 24-minute show depicts the colorful history of San Antonio. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Best Western Alamo Suites Downtown Related: Fun Things to Do in San Antonio at Night 26. McAllister Park13102 Jones Maltsberger Road Located right in the middle of the city, the 976-acre McAllister Park feels like an oasis. The park was named after former San Antonio mayor, Walter W. McAllister. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityOffering you the best free trails for biking and walking, complete with wildlife roaming free, McAllister Park is a wonderful escape from the noise of the city. Beyond the 15 miles of hard and soft trails amidst the wide variety of lush vegetation, the park also has sports fields, a playground, fitness stations, and almost 200 picnic tables. Expert TipIf you brought the furry members of the family along, McAllister Park also has a 1.5-acre dog park near its Starcrest entrance. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites San Antonio-Airport North 27. Hot Wells5503 S. Presa Street Celebrities of yore used to frequent this bath house and hotel in its heyday. Hot Wells still stands proudly but as historical ruins today due to the same tragedy haunting it again and again. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityIf you thought San Antonio’s historical ruins stop at the Missions, the Hot Wells bath house turned hotel turned school will give you another glimpse of San Antonio’s history, albeit in a more recent era. Interestingly, fires caused every change of the building’s function. Expert TipThe ruins have been available for free public viewing since 2019, but only the grounds can be accessed and the ruins are cordoned off. There are reader boards in plaques all around the area though, to tell you the story of the building’s misfortunes. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Embassy Suites San Antonio Brooks City Base Hotel & Spa 28. Slab CinemaSan Antonio, TX 210-212-9373 Since 2004, Slab Cinema has been providing free outdoor movies all over the city of San Antonio. Why We Recommend This Free ActivitySeveral times a month, Slab Cinema pops up at iconic venues all around San Antonio, such as the San Antonio Museum of Art, Hemisfair Park, Pearl District, or even the Alamo. Check out their monthly schedules to catch movies you like and get free tickets. Expert TipThough seating may be provided in the venue, it’s best to bring your own, whether that’s a folding chair, blanket, or a small inflatable bean bag. Some venues also have food trucks and restaurants, but if you’re really on a budget, bringing your own snacks is welcome too. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Home2 Suites By Hilton San Antonio At The Rim, Tx 29. San Antonio Fire Museum801 E Houston Street Just three minutes away from the Alamo is the original Central Fire Headquarters of San Antonio, where a museum that honors the bravery of San Antonian firefighters since the 1850s is currently housed. Why We Recommend This Free ActivityDiscover how firefighting looked like centuries ago in San Antonio, which began in 1854 with a group of 20 young local volunteers. This museum features early fire trucks, antique firefighting equipment, photos from the yesteryears, and uniforms and interactive apparatus for kids. Expert TipCome over on the first Tuesday of the month for free admission. Kids under three, on the other hand, can always come in free. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Grand Hyatt San Antonio 30. Cibolo Nature Center140 City Park Road Wondering what to do if you’re leaving San Antonio? Just a short drive north, Cibolo Nature Center is a haven for nature lovers, history buffs, and paleontology enthusiasts seeking fun free things to do in San Antonio, TX. Why We Recommend This Free ActivitySince Earth Day in 1990, Cibolo has opened its doors for the public to witness four Texan ecosystems, dinosaur footprints, a scenic creek, boardwalk views, wildlife, and more surprises all in one visit. Expert TipIf you’re here on a Saturday, there’s a nearby farm that hosts a weekly farmer’s market. Bring home fresh produce while you enjoy garden views, music, yoga, and community events or workshops. Recommended Hotel Nearby: Comfort Inn & Suites Texas Hill Country Map of Free Things to Do in San Antonio, TXRelated ArticlesList of image sources 30 Free Activities to Do in San Antonio for 2022
Do you have to pay to go on the San Antonio Riverwalk?The riverwalk is free to walk along the water and in front of the shops and restaurants. There is an optional riverboat tour that you have to pay for.
How much does it cost for San Antonio Riverwalk?How much does it cost to visit the River Walk? Admission to the River Walk is free.
Does the River Walk have free parking?Car Parking for RiverWalk Visitors
Parking meters are in effect between 8 AM and 6 PM Monday through Saturday, and the cost is around $2 per hour.
How long is the walk around San Antonio Riverwalk?The San Antonio River Walk is 15 miles long and flows through about 5 miles of downtown San Antonio. While there is no specific River Walk address, you can use the Shops at Rivercenter located on the River Walk as your GPS guide: 849 E. Commerce Street, San Antonio, Texas 78205. Get directions.
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Is the San Antonio Riverwalk free?
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