Let’s face it, a weekend in San Antonio is never a bad idea! This vibrant city is bustling with life at every turn. San Antonio boasts a rich history, a fabulous food and drink scene, and so much to see and do, it will have you coming back again and again!
Honestly, Marty and I have been to San Antonio more times than we can count. When we are looking for a fun getaway, a San Antonio weekend is always the answer!
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A Weekend in San Antonio
Where to Stay in San Antonio
In our opinion, trying to decide where to stay in San Antonio is always an easy choice. We love the Riverwalk area.
One of the most popular areas in San Antonio, the San Antonio Riverwalk is full of things to do and is easily walkable, making it a great choice. Even if you don’t stay directly on the river, choose a hotel close by so you can park your car for your weekend in San Antonio and just enjoy!
Here are our top choices for Riverwalk hotels:
Omni La Mansion Del Rio
We absolutely love staying at the Omni La Mansion Del Rio. The property evokes a fabulous elegance and charm and the riverfront rooms with private balconies are the best!
This is our favorite place to stay in San Antonio. I love hanging out in the pool and enjoying a glass of wine on my balcony overlooking the Riverwalk.
Book Your Stay With Omni La Mansion: Hotels.com | Hotels Combined
Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk
Another great hotel on the Riverwalk is the Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk. This hotel puts you right in the heart of the action with easy access to the Riverwalk and the Alamo! Not only that, but there is a great pool, a fabulous spa, and wonderful restaurants in this hotel.
Book Your Stay with Hyatt Regency San Antonio Riverwalk: Hotels.com | Hotels Combined
Crockett Hotel
Located in the heart of central San Antonio, but not directly on the Riverwalk, the historic Crockett Hotel is a great choice for those that want a nice hotel that is easier on the budget.
The Crockett Hotel sits right across the street from the Alamo, making the location fabulous. They have a pool and offer guests a great breakfast as well.
Book Your Stay with the Crockett Hotel: Hotels.com | Hotels Combined
San Antonio Weekend Things To Do
Explore the Riverwalk
I assume you are probably arriving on a Friday night, if so, then the first place you will want to explore is the San Antonio Riverwalk. If you are arriving on a Saturday morning, then I would start with the Alamo and come back to the Riverwalk.
The San Antonio Riverwalk is actually about 15 miles long, but the section of the Riverwalk we are going to stick to for our weekend in San Antonio is only about 2 miles.
The Riverwalk is fascinating to visitors. I mean, it is bustling with activity even during the sweltering heat of the Texas summer. That alone speaks volumes for how special this place is. LOL!
My favorite way to explore the Riverwalk is by foot. Marty and I walking along the stone path taking in all of the sights and sounds that surround us by the water’s edge. Truly, this is my favorite way to navigate the city!
If you would like, you can also take a boat tour on the Riverwalk. A boat tour is a great way to get an entirely different perspective of the Riverwalk while learning a little of San Antonio’s history at the same time.
You can even do a San Antonio Riverwalk Hop-On, Hop-Off Cruise if you are interested.
Take time to pop into the shops that you pass during your walk to get some great Texas souvenirs before grabbing a drink at one of the many local restaurants. I mean, this is the perfect area to have a great meal and do some people watching!
If you are lucky enough to be visiting during one of the many celebrations on the riverwalk, then you are in for a treat. The San Antonio Riverwalk hosts many parades and celebrations throughout the year.
We especially love their Mardi Gras boat parade and of course visiting the San Antonio Riverwalk at Christmas.
Tour the Alamo
Most people know of the Alamo thanks to the famous battle that was fought here when Texas was battling for its independence from Mexico. The Alamo was built in the 18th Century as one of five Spanish Mission in San Antonio.
I would advise building the Alamo first thing in the morning as this attraction is very popular and gets busy fast.
We love that the Alamo is one of the free things to do in San Antonio. Yes, you read that correctly, entry to the Alamo is free! If you are interested, you can take a guided tour for $15/person.
A guided tour is a great way to learn about the history of the Alamo and the surrounding area.
Be sure to tour the entire grounds and all of the buildings during your visit. Don’t be surprised at how small the Alamo is though, it is a common reaction. LOL!
Shop in La Villita Historic District
La Villita means “little town” and that is exactly why this has to be a part of your San Antonio weekend. The La Villita area of San Antonio began as a Spanish settlement along the river.
The historic adobe huts were built by the incoming Anglo and European immigrants that began to call this area home. Now, these cute buildings are how to a thriving art scene. We love going through the little shops admiring the handmade goods for sale.
Another fun way to explore San Antonio is to do a Segway tour. This is especially fun if you are participating in a Segway ghost tour!
Explore San Antonio’s Mission Trail
While the Alamo is the most famous of the missions, San Antonio is actually comprised of five missions, that make up the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Texas.
Exploring the San Antonio Mission Trail is a great way to learn more about Texas’ intriguing history.
Getting to the San Antonio Missions is easy. You can bike or hike the mission trail if you are up to it or you can take a bus.
We usually choose to take public transportation as it is clean and efficient. Just jump on the VIA bus number 36 Mission San Juan and then work your way up from there back to the Alamo.
All of the missions are unique and have their own set of buildings and history, so they are all worth exploring. I especially love doing a tour with the Park Ranger at Mission San Jose. Tours with the Rangers are given for free and they are so informative.
When you have finished your tour at Mission San Jose, be sure to walk down the street to Nicha’s. This is our go-to restaurant when in San Antonio. They have amazing Tex-Mex and delicious margaritas.
Admire the San Fernando Cathedral
Evenings are a great time to admire the San Fernando Cathedral. If you are in San Antonio Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, or Sunday, then you are in for a treat!!
For you see, at 9:00, 9:30, and 10:00 pm, the exterior of San Fernando Cathedral is lit up with an awesome light display. The video is a tribute to San Antonio’s culture and history. It is truly an amazing display that is well worth your time on your weekend in San Antonio.
Pearl Brewery
It is no secret that the San Antonio Riverwalk area is very touristy. To escape this area and get a feel for another area in San Antonio, head to the Pearly Brewery area.
What used to be a brewery is now home to a trendy collection of shops, restaurants, and hip housing. Located a short drive from the Riverwalk area, the Pearl Brewery area is a cool place to hang out.
There is also a great farmer’s market locate here on Saturdays. We love coming to the Farmer’s Market and tasting all of the yummy treats that are for sale!
Discovery the King William’s Historic District
King William’s Historic District is located in the southern part of San Antonio. Here you will find beautiful Victorian-style mansions, shops, and bars.
This 1-mile area is full of history and is truly a hidden gem in San Antonio. We love walking or biking the neighborhood and admiring all of the gorgeous houses.
You can even visit a couple of the houses! The Steves Homestead is open for tours, as is the Guenther House.
I would allow a couple of hours to explore this area, especially if you want to pop into any of the little bars.
Market Square
Another great area is San Antonio’s Market Square. Just a short walk from the San Antonio Riverwalk, you will find a fabulous little area that makes you feel like you have been transported to Mexico.
If you’re in the mood for Tex-Mex, then we recommend Mi Tierra while in Market Square. Not only do they have amazing Tex-Mex, but they also have a fun, vibrant atmosphere that is so much fun.
You have to enjoy some of their delicious baked goods also. You can’t miss them, there is a HUGE display as you enter the store. If you eat too much for dinner, then be sure to get them to go!
Be sure to explore Market Square while you are here. Take time to go into all of the great shops and find the perfect San Antonio souvenir.
You will find some really fabulous Mexican products in the stores in this area. There are often festivals and live music happening here as well!
Final Thoughts on Our San Antonio Weekend
Honestly, there is so much to do in San Antonio. We have only scratched the surface with this San Antonio weekend itinerary.
San Antonio is one of the places in Texas that you can return to again and again. They have great food, fabulous history, and fun events happening year-round. Hopefully, we have inspired you to spend a weekend in San Antonio as well!
If you are interested in more great San Antonio tours, please use our link for Viator.
Until next time, safe travels, friends!!
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About the Author
Michelle Snell is a travel writer, history buff, wine lover, and enthusiast of different cultures. While she is a professional educator by day, her passion for travel has her jet-setting all over the world during her free time.
Michelle enjoys bringing places to life through her informative writing style on her blog, That Texas Couple. Her practical tips and suggestions help make travel dreams a reality while immersing her readers in the history, culture, and food of a region. She is happiest sipping wine in Italy or chilling on a beach with her husband, Marty.
Michelle
Saturday 21st of November 2020
Didn't know much about San Antonio before but now it's definitely on my travel bucket list! Thanks for such a great itinerary.
thattexascouple
Sunday 22nd of November 2020
Thank you for reading, Michelle. It is such a fun city!
Krista
Saturday 21st of November 2020
I haven't been to San Antonio yet but it looks like a great place to spend the weekend for sure!
thattexascouple
Sunday 22nd of November 2020
Or a week ;). It really is such a fun city, full of things to do.
Olivia
Saturday 19th of September 2020
I love historic districts! I didn't even know Texas had a UNESCO World Heritage site - how awesome! This area looks so charming, I'd love to visit. Thanks for the inspo!
thattexascouple
Sunday 20th of September 2020
Thank you so much for reading, Olivia. We love historic areas also and try to discover them every place we visit. :)
Michele
Saturday 19th of September 2020
I enjoy reading your posts and discovering more of Texas. We have only visited a tiny fraction of the state but hope to visit again soon.
thattexascouple
Sunday 20th of September 2020
Thank you so much, Michele. I hope you explore more of Texas. It really is a great state!
Valerie
Wednesday 9th of September 2020
Haven't considered San Antonio before but sounds like a fun place! Excuse me while I put this on my list lol :)
thattexascouple
Wednesday 9th of September 2020
Yay! So glad we could convince you! :)