31 Things to Do in San Antonio with Kids for a Fiesta-Filled 2025
Deep in the heart of Texas, you’ll find plenty of family-friendly things to do in San Antonio with kids that are both memorable and fun. From the iconic River Walk, which attracts visitors from all over the world, to modern open-air markets buzzing with families every weekend, San Antonio offers you the best of city and country.
But perhaps the coolest part of the city, and no doubt a top kid-friendly thing to do in San Antonio, is visiting the world-famous Alamo. It’s surprising to find such a historic site surrounded by modern office buildings. Your kids can experience one of the most important pieces of American history right in their own backyard.
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- Only in San Antonio: Unique Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids
- Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids This Weekend
- Cheap Family Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids
- Free Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids
- Indoor Kid Activities in San Antonio
- Things to Do in San Antonio With Teens
- Things to Do in San Antonio With Toddlers
- Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids FAQs
Feature image via @sanantoniozoo on Instagram
Only in San Antonio: Unique Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids
1. Take a Cooking Class
It’s never too early to teach your kids important life skills, like the ability to cook. Cooking classes in San Antonio are designed for families and kids. From holiday cookies to handmade pasta or spicy Asian delights, everyone gets to make something delicious while learning valuable skills. Plus, it makes for a top-notch team-building activity in San Antonio for adults, too!
2. Remember the Alamo
Young kids today may not have learned about the Alamo yet, but it’s a great opportunity to educate them. Located right in the heart of the city, it’s one of the most unique things to do in San Antonio with kids. While it is visible from the street, a tour will really give you a comprehensive rundown of the history of the Alamo.
3. Day of the Dead Celebrations
Texas has one of the largest Hispanic populations in the country, and San Antonio hosts the largest Día de los Muertos celebration outside of Mexico. These vibrant celebrations, filled with parades, live music and colorful art, are a unique experience and make for memorable things to do in San Antonio with kids.
4. Everyone Enjoys Morgan’s Wonderland
The first of its kind, this ultra-accesible theme park is one of the most inclusive things to do in San Antonio with kids. With over 25 accessible rides on a 25-acre lot, kids of all ages and abilities can enjoy a day of fun.
5. Drive Around Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
Named as one of the top safari parks in the nation, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is a standout among things to do in San Antonio with kids. Located in the Texas Hill Country, Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch spans 500 acres and allows you to drive through and interact with over 500 animals, including giraffes, zebras and antelopes. After your drive, you can relax and enjoy a picnic at the shaded pavilion.
Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids This Weekend
6. Stroll the Japanese Tea Gardens
Both kids and adults will be impressed by these immaculate tea gardens. If you're looking for things to do in San Antonio with kids this weekend, you'll be pleasantly surprised by these gardens. You can enjoy the koi fish and exotic plants as you make your way around this multi-level garden. There’s also a restaurant on site for when you get hungry, and a little train ride for young kids.
7. Get Great BBQ
BBQ is a Texas staple, and it’s one of those quintessential things to do in San Antonio with kids. Whether you’re a local or just visiting, you can't miss the San Antonio food scene. Pinkerton’s BBQ is a family favorite, with a huge yard for kids to run around and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a great spot if you're craving the best BBQ in San Antonio.
8. Try a Ropes Course
After exploring the Natural Bridge Caverns, take time to enjoy the ropes course and other above-ground attractions. The 60-foot-tall course, climbing wall and maze are perfect for older kids, while the Tykes Ropes Course offers younger kids a fun way to join in. It’s an exciting addition to your list of things to do in San Antonio with kids this weekend.
9. Discover San Pedro Creek Culture Park
Looking for things to do in San Antonio with kids this weekend? The San Pedro Creek Culture Park is a newer, exciting place to explore. The park features a splash pad for the kids, as well as art and cultural experiences for the whole family to enjoy. It's the perfect mix of play and learning.
10. Climb Around Pearsall Park
On the Southwest side of the city, Pearsall Park offers a fantastic jungle gym, and best of all, it’s free to visit. It's a favorite spot for young kids to climb, swing, slide and explore. The park also has a small splash pad for hot days and plenty of green space for pick-up soccer or flag football. With 505 acres to enjoy, it's a must-see when looking for things to do in San Antonio with kids.
Cheap Family Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids
11. Mission San Jose
Texas is home to a rich history, and Mission San Jose, which dates back to 1720, is a great place to immerse yourself in it. If you’re looking for things to do in San Antonio with kids that blend education and fun, this is a must-see. You can take a guided tour or explore the mission at your own pace. For a unique experience, be sure to check out the mariachi mass on Sundays.
12. Visit Kiddie Park at Brackenridge Park
Located near the zoo, Kiddie Park at Brackenridge is a nostalgic amusement park for kids. It’s America’s oldest children’s amusement park and features an old-fashioned carousel, Ferris wheel and classic games like the ring toss. It’s one of the top cheap things to do in San Antonio with kids on any given day.
13. Shop at Historic Market Square
This old-fashioned market square feels like you're stepping back in time. Spread over three square blocks, it’s filled with affordable things to do in San Antonio with kids. This is the spot to shop ‘til you drop and then refuel with some authentic Tex-Mex. Don’t forget to join the live street music and dancing for a full cultural experience that’s fun for everyone.
14. Immerse Yourself in Art at Hopscotch
Hopscotch offers an exciting and creative experience for kids, featuring 15 exhibits by over 40 global artists in a 20,000-square-foot space. If you're looking for things to do in San Antonio with kids that are both engaging and visually stimulating, this is the spot. Kids can explore immersive rooms like one covered in flowers or a hall of mirrors made entirely of laser beams. Expect hours of exploration and creativity.
15. Go Green at The Botanical Garden
If you’re looking for a peaceful, educational escape, the Botanical Garden is perfect for a family outing. With 38 acres of lush gardens, workshops and seasonal events, it’s a beautiful and relaxing place to enjoy nature. As one of the more tranquil things to do in San Antonio with kids, it’s an excellent spot to teach children about different plant species and enjoy a family day outdoors.
Free Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids
16. Explore the Riverwalk
The Riverwalk is one of the things this city is best known for, and an afternoon of exploration makes for one of the easiest free things to do in San Antonio with kids. For out-of-towners, it’s a pretty unique experience. Lined by restaurants and shops, you’re likely to hear some live music or catch a whiff of something delicious. By night, it’s slightly less kid-friendly, though still packed with tourists and aglow with twinkling lights.
17. The Park at Pearl
The Park at Pearl is a family-friendly gem in downtown San Antonio. If you're looking for free things to do in San Antonio with kids, this is a great spot to visit. With its splash pad for the little ones, live music on weekends and the farmer’s market, there’s always something going on here. Even on weekdays, the area is bustling with shops and delicious dining options, making it a perfect stop for families.
18. Cool Off in the Civic Park Wading Pools
Texas summers can get pretty hot, but the Civic Park Wading Pools offer a fun and refreshing way to cool off. With five uniquely shaped splash pools, it’s a fantastic way to beat the heat. It’s one of the best free things to do in San Antonio with kids, it’s a great spot to meet other families, splash around and enjoy the summer weather together.
19. Splash Around at Hemisfair
Hemisfair is another great option for free family things to do in San Antonio with kids. The splash pad here is perfect for young ones, with small fountains and shallow water that’s ideal for cooling off on hot days. Plus, it’s centrally located, so after some splash-time fun or when the kids get hungry, you're not far from nearby restaurants and shops to grab a bite or explore more of the area.
20. Storytime at Twig Book Shop
Twig Book Shop is a charming, independent bookstore that's perfect for families. Unlike larger chain stores, it has a cozy, welcoming atmosphere. Offering storytime on Fridays, it's one of the sweetest things to do in San Antonio with kids. Kids can enjoy a good book while parents browse. Plus, during the summer, they offer additional storytime sessions, making it a great spot for families when school’s out.
Indoor Kid Activities in San Antonio
21. Go to the Top of the Tower of the Americas
During the day, kids can enjoy the Tower of the Americas, where they can marvel at San Antonio from 750 feet above the city. It's one of the most thrilling things to do in San Antonio with kids, giving them a bird's-eye view of the city. From the observation deck, they can press their faces against the glass and see for miles. It's a fun learning experience, too, with exhibits about the six flags that flew over Texas.
22. Theater Time
San Antonio has a few incredible theaters, and they're great if you're looking for indoor activities for kids. Local spots like the Lila Cockrell Theater, Storytime at Hemisfair and Confluence Theater offer a variety of entertainment options. From live storytelling to movies, these theaters provide fun for the whole family.
23. Pizza Party At Dough Pizzeria
Not only is Dough Pizzeria listed as one of the best in the city, but it’s super family-friendly. Everyone loves a good pizza party, and if you’re looking for indoor activities in San Antonio on a Friday night, this is it. Their famous zas are Neapolitan style, with a nice chewy crust and they’re made with homemade mozzarella that’s made fresh every day. That’s about as good as it gets outside of Italy!
24. Explore Under the Sea, SEA LIFE San Antonio
In a city that’s primarily hot and brown, the cool blue sea sounds pretty appealing. Though you’re nowhere near the ocean, you can still learn about the whole underwater world at SEA LIFE San Antonio. Kids (and adults) love to walk under the glass ceiling that’s loaded with sea creatures. The rock pool is a favorite where they can touch sea animals and the stingray bay is sure to impress. It's a perfect indoor activity for kids who want to learn about ocean life while staying cool.
25. See SeaWorld
Not to be confused with SEA LIFE, SeaWorld is also a top indoor activity in San Antonio with kids. Watch dolphins or orcas perform stunts, or see something different like the Sea Lion and Otter Spotlight show. For a unique experience, pet dolphins or go all out with a VIP pass for a more intimate (perfect for a date idea in San Antonio) look at the sea creatures. There are also plenty of rides and live music to keep everyone entertained.
Things to Do in San Antonio With Teens
26. Explore Deep Caverns
The guided tour of the Natural Bridge Caverns is pretty spectacular, dropping you 180 feet below the ground. It's a great activity for teens, but younger kids may also enjoy it. The caverns are filled with hidden passageways, bright blue water and even a ropes course for extra excitement. During the holidays, the caverns are even more special with cozy lights and a campfire.
27. Six Flags Fiesta San Antonio
For thrill-seeking teens, a day at Six Flags Fiesta is a must. Packed with rollercoasters and other exciting amusement park rides, it’s a favorite for teens in San Antonio. The park recently added Hurricane Harbor, a water park that’s perfect for cooling off during the summer months and beating the Texas heat.
28. The Amazing Mirror Maze
Everything your teen or tween could want is at The Amazing Mirror Maze. Drop them off with their friends, or enjoy an evening together as a family. It’s filled with optical illusions, a black hole maze, laser rooms and escape rooms. It’s a top choice for things to do in San Antonio with teens, especially when the neon lights add even more drama after dark.
Things to Do in San Antonio with Toddlers
29. Run Around Yanaguana Gardens at Hemisfair
Yanaguana Gardens is a great place for toddlers to burn off some energy. This beautifully maintained outdoor area has a variety of games, obstacle courses and jungle gyms. There's also a sand pit, splash pad and even ping pong or cornhole for older kids and adults.
30. Check Out The DoSeum
The DoSeum is a hands-on museum perfect for toddlers and kids. It offers exhibits, summer camps and classes, combining education with fun. It’s a great place to visit year-round, especially on hot summer days or rainy afternoons.
31. San Antonio Zoo + Mini Train
The San Antonio Zoo is home to a wide variety of animals, from towering giraffes to slithering snakes. With 16 distinct habitats, including an African safari area and a section for bears and wolves, it’s an exciting destination for kids of all ages. Don’t miss the mini train ride or the vintage-style amusement park rides, which are perfect for younger kids.
Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids FAQs
What To Do in San Antonio With Kids This Weekend?
For a weekend filled with family-friendly fun, check out the latest events in San Antonio. Apart from the things to do in San Antonio year-round, the Visit San Antonio website lists all the latest and greatest events coming to town each month. From street fairs to live music, there’s always something exciting for families to enjoy.
Is San Antonio Good For Kids?
Absolutely! San Antonio is one of the most family-friendly cities in Texas. With plenty of kid-approved attractions, outdoor activities and local events, it’s easy to see why it’s a beloved destination for families.
What is San Antonio’s #1 Attraction?
The Alamo stands as the most famous and popular attraction in San Antonio. It’s a key piece of American history and a must-visit for both tourists and those passing through on road trips.
Is the Riverwalk in San Antonio Kid-Friendly?
Yes! The Riverwalk is a great place for families, especially during the day. While it’s still fun after dark, the atmosphere shifts toward a more adult crowd, with bars and restaurants coming alive, making daytime visits better for young kids.
While other Texas cities may be more well-known, San Antonio is a lovely destination for families. Because it’s a bit off the radar, you’ll often find smaller crowds and better prices. As with the rest of Texas, the food is delicious and the people are friendly. There’s no shortage of things to do in San Antonio with kids, and adults can enjoy plenty of entertainment options as well!
For even more fun family ideas, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
