The Top 10 Things to See and Do in San Antonio, Texas

Weaving its way through the heart of the city is the San Antonio River Walk. A network of paths and walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, the 15mi (24km) route is flanked by the multicolored parasols of bars, cafés and restaurants. True, it’s a well-trodden path, but it’s well worth the walk to get a flavor of the city. And if a sojourn on foot does not appeal, book yourself onto one of the boat tours, which depart regularly from various points along the promenade.

Opened in 1995 as a “laboratory of dreams” by San Antonio native Linda Pace, Artpace is the city’s non-profit contemporary art gallery and creative hub. Its main focus, alongside the program of engaging and often provocative exhibitions and events, is the nurturing of local and international talent through its residencies. Three times each year, the organization nominates a curator to bring together three artists – one each from Texas, the rest of the US and anywhere in the world – to create a work which will be exhibited for two months. This means that each visit will offer a thought-provoking mix of artistic expression.

The UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures makes for an interesting visit, even if a museum is not usually on your agenda. Situated in Hemisfair Park, it strives to raise awareness and appreciation of Texas’s long and diverse history, through an engaging series of exhibits, programs and special events. The sprawling establishment is also extremely family-friendly and always offers some hands-on elements to keep little ones entertained.

Based in the city’s Brackenridge Park, the award-winning Witte Museum underwent an impressive $100 million renovation, reopening as the expanded “New Witte” in 2017. Its slogan is “where nature, science and culture meet,” so you can expect a good balance of exhibits, from dinosaur skeletons to modern sculpture, cowboy culture to the science of space exploration.