San Antonio, Texas may be known for the iconic Alamo, but there is so much more to see and explore. From modern art museums and interactive installations to historic missions and Western adventures, this city is truly a cultural hub full of wonder. Whether you're an art, science, or history lover, there is a museum just for you!
Take a step back in time for a peek into San Antonio's colonial past. Dating back to 300 years ago, The Alamo is a symbol of Texas freedom. Come on down to Alamo Plaza in downtown San Antonio to see the fortress where Texas won its independence from Mexico, with canons and gorgeous gardens. While admission is always free, you still need to make a reservation to enter this historical haven.
In Alamo Heights, this 25-acre property holds some of San Antonio's most stunning pieces of art. This modern art museum houses masterpieces from Diego Rivera to Picasso, all belonging to art collector Marion Koogler-McNay, displayed in what used to be her home. Waltz through the gardens and outdoor sculpture gallery for a European escape. Open every day except Monday and Tuesday, tickets are $20 for adults and $15 for students.
Also known as SAMA, the San Antonio Museum of Art is one of the city's most popular attractions. Located right on the River Walk, you can even access it by boat on your cruise down the Guadalupe. Showcasing 5,000 years of global works, from ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman, to modern Latin American galleries. It's open every day but Monday, tickets are $20 for adults, $12 for students, and free on select hours Tuesdays and Sundays.
Learn all about the prehistoric times of Texas, at this kid-friendly museum on Broadway. The main exhibits at The Witte focus on science, nature, and art, from dinosaurs and mummies to Native American art galleries. Tickers are $15 for adults and $10 for children, but free on Tuesdays from 3pm to 6pm. After touring The Witte, stroll through Brackenridge Park and paddle board on the river, or grab a bite to eat at the Japanese Tea Garden.
Spread throughout South San Antonio, the five Catholic Missions offer a glimpse into the city's colonial past. All five were named a UNESCO World Heritage Site, including Espada, San Juan, San José, Concepción, and The Alamo, along with San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. Dating back to the 18th century, each mission has Spanish architecture and breathtaking sanctuaries. Take a stroll along the Mission Reach, an eight-mile path that leads to each of the five missions, ending at beautiful Confluence Park.
Set on the River Walk, the Briscoe brings the Wild West to life. With arts and artifacts that date back to pre-colonial days, look out for the covered wagons and the famous Poncho Villa saddle. Head outside into the courtyard to see the McNutt Sculpture Garden full of bronze sculptures of iconic figures from the American West. It's open Thursday through Monday from 10am to 5pm, adult tickets are $14 and children get in free!
Ruby City is the passion project of Linda Pace in her efforts to share her love of art with others through her unique art collection. From the bright crimson-colored exterior to the gardens of Chris Park, Ruby City is a peaceful oasis. Attend one of their many art events or come by to admire the contemporary pieces that represent various social and political perspectives. The museum is open Thursday through Sunday from 10am to 6pm and is free to all just as Linda had dreamed of!
Photo courtesy of UTSA Institute of Texas Cultures
The UTSA Institute of Texas Cultures celebrates the melting pot of cultures in Texas. Through their rotating exhibits, you can see how a variety of cultures vary in food, art, music, and dance. Be sure to attend either the Asian Festival or the Texas Folklife Festival that UTSA hosts, to get the full cultural experience. It's open Thursday through Sunday from 10am to 4pm, and there is no admission fee but a donation is recommended.
Not only does this museum double as a saloon, but it features two museums all in one. See the exotic animal collection in the Buckhorn Museum and Western legends from Ray Martinez to Joaquin Jackson at the Texas Rangers Museum. After your tour, sip on a prickly pear margarita and take in all the memorabilia from owner Albert Friedrich's quirky collection that dates back to 1881. Combined tickets for the museum are $22.99 for adults and $16.99 for kids, but you can visit the Buckhorn Saloon any time!
This 20,000-square-foot space holds some truly shocking sights. With bright colors that catch your eye at every turn, Hopscotch is a world of entertainment full of immersive and interactive installations and optical illusions that will blow your mind. As they are constantly adding new rotating exhibits, you will be in for a fun surprise on each new visit. Tickets are $24 for adults and $15 for kids, but be sure to book ahead since ticket reservations are required.
