Historic Market Square

For a distinctly Mexican feel, hit up Market Square. Also known as El Mercado, this historic shopping district in downtown San Antonio is home to the largest Mexican shopping center in the city, along with plenty of festivals and exhibits.

Mission Concepcion

Visit the oldest unrestored stone church in America. Established in 1716, Mission Concepcion was originally meant to be a base for converting Native Americans in (present-day) eastern Texas. Founded by Franciscan friars, this church also endures as the best preserved of the Texas missions.

Botanical Garden

Nature lovers will want to check out the San Antonio Botanical Garden. This 33-acre garden is home to a conservatory housing an array of plants (alpine, aquatic and more), as well as native area vegetation such as East Texas piney woods, plus a carriage house built in 1896.

The Alamo

Get your Texas-history fill at the Lone Star State’s most iconic landmark. The Alamo stood its ground for 13 days in March 1836 -- the deaths of a small band of Texans here has since come to symbolize will and fortitude in the pursuit of Texas’ independence.

San Antonio Museum of Art

Just about every kind of art is housed within the San Antonio Museum of Art. Art of the Americas, along with Egyptian, Greek and Roman artifacts, as well as Chinese ceramics, 20th-century European paintings, photography and more, all find their home within the famed museum, located on the River Walk.

Majestic Theatre

Enjoy a show at San Antonio’s oldest and largest theatre. Built in 1929, Majestic Theatre showcases the latest Broadway shows, as well as concerts, comedians and other live acts. The Majestic is also a visual treat -- just take a look inside the 2,500-seat theatre.

La Villita Historic Arts Village

Explore San Antonio’s very first neighborhood. Established in 1939, La Villita Historic Arts Village is home to nearly 30 galleries and shops, all contained within 1 square block, featuring oil paintings, sculptures, watercolors and more by local and regional artists.

San Antonio Zoo

This rhinoceros is one of the 3,500 animals, representing 750 species, which visitors will find at the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium. The 35-acre zoo, which opened in 1948, sees more than 1 million visitors each year -- the zoo’s latest exhibit, Africa Live!, is among the big draws.

Tower of the Americas

The 750-foot-tall Tower of the Americas offers great views of downtown San Antonio. Built for the 1968 World’s Fair, the structure was the tallest observation tower in America until 1996. It still astounds, with a revolving restaurant at the top of the tower offering panoramic views of the city.

Witte Museum

Focused on natural history, science and South Texas heritage, the Witte Museum features a diverse collection of historic artifacts, from across the ages: Cave drawings, dinosaur bones and Texas wildlife dioramas are among the treasures you’ll find here.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

You’ll feel like you’re on safari at the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch. This 400-acre safari park, located on the northern edge of San Antonio, is home to more than 500 animals, representing over 40 species. In addition to this zebra, you’ll see exotic game such as fallow deer, gazelle and buffalo.