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Area Attractions
Listings 1 to 33 of 33
![]() On the east side of Alamo Plaza is the most famous spot in Texas where 189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, after repeated attacks by Mexican General Santa Anna’s army. Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo) was established in 1718 as the city’s first mission. The chapel, one of the most photographed facades in the nation, and the Long Barracks are all that remain of the original fort. Long Barracks Museum and Library are near the chapel. The museum contains relics and mementos from the Republic of Texas and offers narration on the fall of the Alamo. The Alamo is located in the heart of the city, inside beautifully landscaped grounds. Hours: 9 a.m.-5:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday. Closed December 24 and 25. Restricted hours March 6. 300 Alamo Plaza (78205) MAIN: 210-225-1391 ext. 34 FAX: 210-229-1343 E-MAIL: thealamo@thealamo.org ![]() For a taste of the Old West and wildlife exhibits from all over the world visit this classic 1881 saloon and museum. The museum is a short two blocks from the Alamo and 50 yards from the River Walk. Stroll through 33,000 square feet of artifacts from Texas history and world record wildlife exhibits with African, Asian, Alaskan, and North American themes - over 520 different species in all including fish from the Seven Seas. Visit the arcade and Buckhorn Curio Store. Cafe opens daily at 11 am. Weekday lunch specials for $3.99. Open all year except Christmas and New Year's Day. Memorial Day to Labor Day (call for schedule). Labor Day to Memorial Day 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. Admission charged; Discounts for seniors and military with ID. 318 E. Houston (78205) MAIN:210-247-4000 FAX: 210-247-4020 ![]() The home site of Jose Antonio Navarro (1795-1871), a Texas legislator under Mexico, the Republic of Texas and the U.S. The site of Navarro’s furnished house, first residence, and store. Navarro’s life illustrates Texas’ rich Mexican history and heritage. Conversational tours and exhibits are provided. Hours: 10 a.m.-4 p.m., Wednesday-Sunday. Admission: adults $2; children (6-12) $1; children under 6 free. Adult group rate $1; school groups 50 cents per person. 228 S. Laredo St. (78207) MAIN: 210-226-4801 ![]() "Alamo - The Price of Freedom," is a 45-minute docudrama about the 13-day siege and fall of the Alamo and the 189 defenders who fought and died. The IMAX screen is six stories tall, 10 times larger than a conventional movie screen. The huge screen and magnetic stereo sound system put viewers in the center of the action. Other IMAX features are also shown. IMAX recently opened a second 3-D screen. Admission: adults $8.95; children (3-11) $4.75; senior (65+) $7.95; groups (15 or more) adults $6.20; children (3-11) $4.75. 849 E. Commerce, Rivercenter Mall, Street Level, Crockett Street Entrance (78205) MAIN: 210-247-4629 or 800-354-4629 FAX: 210-227-5432 E-MAIL: info@imax-sa.com
Winding pebble walkways, stone bridges, a waterfall and tranquil pools highlight this lush garden. 3800 North St. Mary's St. (78212). (At the northwestern edge of Brackenridge Park) MAIN: 210-821-3120
A 25-block area near downtown on the south bank of the San Antonio River. In the late 1800's the King William District was the most elegant residential area in the city. Prominent German merchants originally settled the area. It was zoned as the state's first historic district, and has once again become a fashionable neighborhood. The area includes the following attractions.
Located on a bend of the river, one of the oldest historic districts in Texas. Carl Hilmar Guenther, founder of Pioneer Flour Mills, built this elegant home in 1860. The restored house includes a museum where mill memorabilia is displayed. Of interest to collectors are the Dresden china anniversary plates made in Germany until WWII. Museum and River Mill store hours: 9 a.m. - 5 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Sunday. Restaurant hours: 7 a.m. - 3 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 8 a.m. - 2 p.m., Sunday. Free addmision. 205 E. Guenther (78204) MAIN: 210-227-1061 or 800-235-8186 FAX: 210-351-6372 ![]() A unique arts and crafts community with shops, working artists, restaurants and a post office. The Old San Antonio Exhibit (located in Bolivar Hall) houses a collection of art objects, artifacts and symbols relevant to the history. This beautifully landscaped historic district offers leisurely shopping, dining and five rental venues for special events. Shops open daily 10 a.m.-6 p.m. Free addmision. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s Day. 418 Villita (78205) MAIN: 210-207-8610 FAX: 210-207-4390 ![]() Named a State and National Historic Landmark. One of the few remaining vintage, atmospheric vaudeville movie palaces. Home to the San Antonio Symphony and the AT&T Broadway Series. Individual concerts and events also showcased. 224 E. Houston (78205) MAIN: 210-226-5700 210-226-3333 (tickets) 210-223-4343 (tours) ![]() From early morning until late at night, Market Square is alive with activity. Visitors browse through the 32 shops at "El Mercado," an area patterned after an authentic Mexican market. In addition, there are 80 specialty shops in Farmers Market Plaza. Market Square is also the scene of many Hispanic festivals where food and beverage booths spring up alongside the Guadalajara lamps and the strains of mariachi music blend with the excitement of Mexican dances. Free admission. Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m., summer; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., winter. Stores closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter. 514 W. Commerce (78207) MAIN: 210-207-8600 FAX: 210-207-4287 ![]() The chain of missions established along the San Antonio River in the 18th century are reminders of one of Spain’s most successful attempts to extend its New World dominion from Mexico. Representing both church and state, these missions were charged with converting the local Native Americans, collectively called Coahuiltecans, into devout Catholics and productive members of Spanish society. More than just churches on the Spanish Colonial frontier, the missions also served as vocational and educational centers, economic enterprises involved in agricultural and ranching endeavors and regional trade. They were the greatest concentration of Catholic missions in North America and formed the foundation for what is today the thriving city of San Antonio. The park contains the historically and architecturally significant structures of missions Concepción, San José, San Juan and Espada. Other important cultural resources included are the historic Espada Dam and Aqueduct, acequia (irrigation) systems and the Rancho de las Cabras. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. daily. Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas and New Year’s. Free admission. The visitor center is located next to Mission San Jose and contains a theater showing a 20-minute depiction of early life at the mission, a museum and book shop. Park Headquarters: 2202 Roosevelt Ave. (78210) MAIN: 210-534-8833 or 210-932-1001 FAX: 210-534-1106
807 Mission Rd. at Felisa St. (78210) This handsome church looks essentially as it did 200 years ago. From 1731, religious festivals were held as friars strove to replace traditional Native American ritual by the demonstration of Christian ideals. Remnants of wall and ceiling paintings in the surviving rooms of the mission’s convento have been conserved. Wayside exhibits lead visitors around the grounds and through the various rooms. The site also features a visitor contact station and a sales area. 210-534-1540
6701 San Jose Dr. (78214) Founded in 1720 by Fray Antonio Margil de Jesús, San José became the largest and best known of the Texas Missions and was viewed as the model among Texas missions. After early setbacks, 300 inhabitants were sustained by the vast fields and herds of livestock. A visitor in 1777 referred to the structure as the "Queen of the Missions." The carvings on the church are notable features. The famous "Rose Window" is considered one of the finest pieces of Spanish Colonial ornamentation in the country. Other features are the convento area and the stairway to the belfry and choir loft - each of the 25 risers was hand-hewn from a single live-oak log and constructed without nails or pegs. Also featured is a granary with flying buttresses, a gristmill, restored defensive walls, and quarters. 210-932-1001
9101 Graf Rd. (78214) Established along the banks of the San Antonio River in 1731 after relocation from East Texas. With a rich farm and pasture lands it became a regional supplier of agricultural produce, which helped support the missions, local settlements and presidio garrisons. The chapel, with its open bell tower is still in use. A more elaborate church was never completed. The site includes a self-guided nature trail. 210-534-0749
10040 Espada Rd. (78214) In 1731, after their retreat from East Texas, the founders of San Francisco de los Tejas moved the mission to the San Antonio River and renamed it San Francisco de la Espada. Espada appears as remote today as it did in the mid 1700s. It boasts the best preserved segments of the historic acequias (the irrigation system designed to provide water for crops) part of which includes the still working Espada dam and aqueduct. In 1995, the ranch that once supported Mission Espada, Rancho de las Cabras near Floresville, became part of the National Historical Park and is currently open on a limited basis. 210-627-2021 ![]() Fun For All Ages!! Two premiere museums under one roof! The Plaza Wax Museum features over 250 lifelike wax figures set in themed settings of Hollywood, Horror (optional section), Children's Land of Make Believe, Freedom's Journey (history section), Religion and much more! Ripley's Believe It or Not! contains over 500 unique one-of-a-kind exhibits. Open daily (closed Christmas Day). Ticket office closes one hour prior to closing time. Extended hours during summer, holidays and special events (best to call for opening and closing times). Admission (prices subject to change without notice): Both attractions: Adults $16.95 + tax; Children (ages 4-12) $7.95 + tax. Children under 3 years of age are free. Group rates available for 12 or more people 301 Alamo Plaza (corner of Alamo Plaza & Crockett St.) 78205 MAIN: 210-224-9299 FAX: 210-224-1516 ![]() The Paseo del Rio, in the heart of downtown, is the pride of the city. Lush green foliage lines the banks of this peaceful, historic river. Cobblestone walkways lead visitors to the river-level restaurants and shops. The river bubbles to the surface on the grounds of the University of the Incarnate Word and flows to downtown and beyond, threading its way through the city one level below the hustle and bustle of city streets. First called Yanaguana by the Payaya Indians, meaning "place of refreshing waters." Along the horseshoe shaped riverbend, the river is shaded by towering cypresses, oaks and willows and bordered by gardens of flowering ornamental plants. River cruisers travel the River Walk’s three miles past unique retail shops, restaurants. 454 Soledad, River Ste. 2 (78205) MAIN: 210-227-4262 ![]() This 33-acre garden represents in miniature, the diverse Texas landscape—from Hill Country wildflowers to the formal rose gardens of East Texas. A biblical and children’s garden and a fragrance garden are featured. Enter through the Carriage House to visit the gift shop and have lunch in the tea room (kitchen closed on Monday). The Conservatory, a $6.5 million complex with 90,000 sq. ft. of climatically controlled structures includes an exhibition hall, tropical house, desert house, palm house, fern room and an orangery. Visitors enter at ground level and follow a tunnel 16 ft. below the surface where architecture separates different environments within a series of tent-like pavilions surrounding a large inner courtyard and pond. Closed Christmas and New Year’s Day. Hours: 9 a.m. – 5 p.m. daily Year Round. Admission (includes the conservatory): adults $4; seniors $2; children (3-13) $1; children under three are free. Tour rates available. 555 Funston Pl. (78209) MAIN: 210-207-3255 FAX: 210-207-3274 ![]() Ranked as one of the top zoos in the nation exhibiting over 3,500 animals of 751 species. At the headwaters of the San Antonio River, the zoo encompasses 35 landscaped acres. Includes one of the largest bird collections in the world and the only American zoo to exhibit the endangered whooping crane. Seasonal shows and educational programs throughout the year. The zoo also offers boat rides. Open daily. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m.(winter hours) from Labor Day to Memorial Day; 9 a.m.-6 p.m.(summer hours), Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission: adults $8; seniors (62+) and children (3-11) $6; children 2 and under free. Group rates available. 3903 N. St. Mary’s st. (78212) (Brackenridge Park) MAIN: 210-734-7183 FAX: 210-734-7291 ![]() Visitors can see free contemporary art exhibitions and lectures by visiting artists and stroll the picturesque grounds of the historic Ursuline Campus, once a girls’ school and convent. Guided tours (Monday-Friday, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. by appointment), a sales gallery and a weekday lunch restaurant are available. Exhibition hours: Monday-Saturday, 9 a.m.-5 p.m. Closed Sunday. 300 Augusta (78205) MAIN: 210-224-1848 FAX: 210-224-9337 ![]() Labeled "the most beautiful building in San Antonio" by the National Geographic Society and a national historic landmark. It once housed the officials of the Spanish Province of Texas. Over the entrance is the original keystone which contains the carved, double-headed eagle of the Hapsburg coat-of-arms and the inscription in Spanish, "finished in 1749." Distinguishing features include period furnishings and a cobblestone patio with fountain and foliage. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5 p.m., Sunday. Admission: adults $1.50, children (7-13) 75 cents. 105 Plaza De Armas (78205) MAIN: 210-224-0601 FAX: 210-207-7946 ![]() Sunset Station is a destination for world-class entertainment, delicious food and night life all set in the historic backdrop of a turn-of-the-century train station. Originally constructed in 1902. Revitalized entertainment destination, Sunset Station showcases San Antonio's rich cultural diversity which is reflected in the wide array of specialty restaurants and entertainment choices, ranging from traditional Mexican cuisine to Ruth's Chris sizzlin' steaks, to Texas toe-tapping country music and the latest in the Latin craze music scene. 1174 E. Commerce (78205) MAIN: 210-222-9481 FAX: 210-223-6194 ![]() An action-packed multi-media show portraying Texas Independence with the Alamo drama as its centerpiece. Utilizing an array of state-of-the-art special effects found only in a few theme parks, the "Encountarium F/X Theatre" format surrounds visitors with an environment that recreates the touch and feel of being present as history was made. This themed attraction offers a complete experience including the theatre, a retail store and a light food and beverage service both inside and outdoors in The Cactus Cantina. Two private reception rooms overlooking the Alamo are available for catered private parties. The 16,000-square-feet facility may be rented for larger groups and events. Open daily. Hours 8:30 a.m. - 8 p.m. Admission: adults $7.50; children (3-11) $4.50. Group rates available for 10 or more. 307 Alamo Plaza (78205) MAIN: 210-227-8224 FAX: 210-227-9855 E-MAIL: info@texas-adventure.com ![]() The Tower, 750 ft. tall, offers a panoramic view of San Antonio and the surrounding area. Glass-walled elevators ascend over 500 feet to the restaurant and observation level. It was the theme structure for HemisFair in 1968 and symbolizes the progress made by the confluence of civilizations in the Western Hemisphere. Hours: Observation Deck, 9 a.m.-10 p.m. Sunday – Thursday; 9 a.m.-11 p.m., Friday –Saturday. Elevator fees: adults $3; children (4-11) $1; seniors (55+) $2. children under four free. Fees subject to change. Visit the Tower of Americas restaurant serving lunch and dinner. 210-223-3101. Parking for restaurant is available off Bowie Street, east of the park. 600 HemisFair Park (78205) MAIN: 210-207-8615 FAX: 210-207-4390 ![]() Created by combat artist Austin Deuel, "Hill 811 S" depicts a marine holding a wounded comrade while looking skyward for an evacuation helicopter. Located at Veterans Memorial Plaza, and dedicated to all veterans. ![]() Meet the pioneers of Texas through exciting, creative displays featuring the 27 ethnic groups that built the Lone Star State. A party at the Institute can include typical foods, music and entertainment, all creating an "International" theme and ambiance. MAIN: 210-458-2300 FAX: 210-458-2205 ![]() Mediterranean mansion with patio, gardens and an impressive collection of post-impressionist paintings. MAIN: 210-824-5368 FAX: 210-824-0218 ![]() A castle-like building housing a collection ranging from ancient art to Mexican folk art. Original home of Lone Star Brewing Company. Elegant setting for indoor/outdoor themes. MAIN: 210-978-8158 FAX: 210-978-813 ![]() San Antonio’s premier museum, the Witte brings history, science and culture to life. With an extensive collection, nationally acclaimed traveling exhibits, the H-E-B Science Treehouse and beautiful grounds where historic homes and log cabins reside, the Witte Museum offers something for everyone, including unique and memorable settings for special events. MAIN: 210-357-1866 or 210-357-1896 FAX: 210-357-1883 ![]() The World's largest marine life adventure park is four parks in one-marine animal park and show park-with more than 25 shows, educational exhibits, rides and family attractions. Featured attractions include: the Steel Eel, a 3,700 foot hypercoaster delivering speeds of up to 35 mph; The great White, Texas' first inverted steel roller coaster, and the Lost Lagoon water park with slides, wave pool, beach, Splash Attacks, a 3-story-tall funhouse providing a cascade of ways to get wet including geysers, sprays, dumping buckets and sprouts, Lil'Gators Lagoon children's pool and towering Sky Tubin' ride-slide. Other attractions include Shamus' Happy Harbor play area for youngsters, the Texas Splashdown and Rio Loco water rides, and the world-reowned Anheuser-Busch Clydesdale horses. Featured shows include Shamu and companion killer whales; sea lions, otters and walruses, the innovative sky show, "Rockin'Ski Party"; and the "Viva." show starring not only beluga whales, Pacific white-sided dolphins and animal trainers, but also synchronized swimmers, high divers and acrobats. Marine life exhibits include Sharks/The Coral Reef, with thousands of tropical fishes, eels and sharks; the Penguin Encounter, with more than 200 polar birds; Dolphin Cove, with Atlantic bottlenose dolphins; and avian habitats for flamingos and other aquatic birds. Behind-the-scenes tours of animal areas are offered for a small additional charge. Other interactive animal programs available at an additional cost include the Sea Lion Interaction Program. Beluga Interaction Program, Shark Interaction Program and Dine with Shamu, a poolside buffet with killer whales and trainers. SeaWorld has on-site dormitories for group retreats and educational programs, featuring hands-on contact with marine animals. The Grand Pavilion, a 12,000 square foot special events facility, host dinners, dances and variety of other functions. 2003 Operating Schedule Open early March-November. (Open weekends and some weekdays in the spring; daily in summer; weekends in the fall.) Seasonal events include daily operations during spring break in March and "Howl-O-Scream" Halloween event October weekends. 10500 SeaWorld Drive (78251) MAIN: 210-523-3611 ![]() Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a theme and water park located in San Antonio that reflects the heritage and culture of its Southwest roots. The park occupies approximately 200 acres and feature numerous adult and children's rides. Shows, thrilling rides and skill games are built around themes celebrating Texas and the Southwest. Themed area: Los Festivales, a Hispanic village, Crackaxle Canyon, an early western town; Spassburg, a German town; and the 50's style Rocksville. Attractions include. "Scooby-Doo Ghostblasters...The mystery of the Haunted Mansion, "a new, interactive, family, dark ride; "Poltergeist," a twisting, spiraling LIM thrill coaster; "The Rattler," a classic wooden roller coaster; "Superman Krypton Coaster," the largest steel and floorless coaster in the southwest; "Scream," a 200 foot turbo drop ride, "Lone Star Lagoon," a giant wave pool shaped in the likeness of the state of Texas, and more. Shows include: "Circo Magnifico," "Teatro Fiesta," "Rockin' at Rockville High," Lone Star Spectacular" laser-light show and many more. Fiesta Bay Boardwalk features a number of attractions including a 90-foot Ferris wheel. The park features a kennel, lockers, strollers, wheelchair rentals, and foreign currency exchange. It is one of the most ADA accessible theme parks. 2003 Operating Schedule: Open March-October. Open weekends in the spring and fall; and daily during the summer. Other special seasonal event include "Fright Fest." General Admission: Special group discounts are available. Special events, picnics and catered outings available for groups of 100+. I-10 West at La Cantera Parkway exit north Loop 1604 PO Box 690290 (78269-0290) MAIN: 210-697-5050 or 800-473-4378 ![]() With 18 landscaped acres of cool, clean water excitement, this family water-park has something fun for every age - from Kids Kove to the Siesta del Rio offering a relaxing ride down a lazy river to major water rides. StarFlight is designed for space age thrills, plus there are new rides and attractions throughout the park. No charge for tubes or life jackets. Free parking. Hours: May and September open weekends, daily throughout summer. Admission: adults $21.99; children (under 48" tall) $16.99; after 5:00 p.m. $13.99 for everyone; seniors (65+) and toddlers under 2 free. Group rates available. Special rates for school and church groups. 3600 IH 35 North (78219) MAIN: 210-227-1400 ![]() Formerly known as the Utah Starzz. Relocated to San Antonio in 2003.The Starzz have made two trips to the WNBA playoffs during their six-year existence. In 2001 Utah finished in third place in the Western Conference and secured its first ever playoff spot. The Starzz lost to the Sacramento Monarchs in the first round. Utah made its second consecutive trip to the playoffs in 2002 when they knocked off the Houston Comets in the first round, including the first ever double overtime game in WNBA history. The Starzz bowed in the Western Conference Finals to the eventual 2002 WNBA Champion L.A. Sparks. One SBC Center San Antonio, TX 78219 MAIN: 210-444-5050 ![]() The team was once in the ABA league and was founded in 1967. It was once known as the Dallas Chaparrals.In 1973, the team relocated to San Antonio and became the Spurs.Some well known players are George "the Iceman" Gervin, James Silas, Johnny Moore, the Bruise Brothers, Alvin Robertson, Willie Anderson, Larry Kenon, David Greenwood, David Robinson, Sean Elliot, and Tim Duncan. In 1999 - The moment that all Spurs fans had waited for, some as much as 26 years, had arrived. The Spurs had made it to the NBA Finals. After years of dissapointments and near misses the Spurs had finally claimed their first NBA title and had shed the mantle as the most successfull NBA team never to win a title. One SBC Center San Antonio, TX 78219 MAIN: 210-444-5000 ![]() In 2002,San Antonio entered into an agreement with the Florida Panthers of the National Hockey League (NHL) to bring the Panthers' American Hockey League (AHL) affiliation franchise to San Antonio. One SBC Center San Antonio, TX 78219 MAIN: 210-444-5000 ![]() A member of the Texas Baseball League. The Missions are a minor league affiliate of the Seattle Mariners. Nelson W. Wolff Municipal Stadium San Antonio, TX 78219 MAIN: 210-675-7275 FAX: 210-670-0001 ![]() Watch horse racing at its best. 1 Retama Parkway Selma, TX 78154 MAIN: 210-651-7000
San Antonio Area Day Trip Destinations All of the cities are within an hour drive of San Antonio.
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