San Antonio is one of the fastest growing cities in North America. The famous Alamo, along with several other lesser-known (but equally old) missions, hearken back to the days when Texas was not yet a state. Some residential neighborhoods, such as the King William District, are more than a century old.
But San Antonio, like any growing metropolis, has plenty of modern features: a vibrant nightlife, cutting edge music and eating scenes and, yes, lots and lots of free attractions. Perhaps SeaWorld and Six Flags will not be on a budget traveler’s itinerary, but there are more than enough cost-less sights and sounds to fill a trip to this modern city.
Here’s is a list of all things good (and free) in San Antonio.
1. San Antonio’s Japanese Tea Garden recently reopened. The well-manicured, highly-stylized gardens would not be out of place in Tokyo or Osaka. This authentic feel makes the garden a great place to explore. In addition to the trees, rocks and pathways, there are koi ponds and a rather impressive 60-foot waterfall.
2. Fiesta San Antonio, held in April, is the city’s biggest festival. Actually, with more than two and a half million attendees, it is the largest outdoor festivals in the entire US. The events take place in mid-April (the 15th to the 25th this year). This year’s festivities will include parades, outdoor concerts, fireworks, cultural performances and food-related events. Though not all events are free, most of those that take place in public places do not charge admission. Others, such as the popular Taste of New Orleans ($10 admission), are reasonably priced.
3. The San Antonio Missions Trail is a 6-mile walkway that runs between four of the area’s historic Spanish-built missions. Yes, it is one of the better places to walk if you are in search of an urban hiking venue, but the missions, which are part of a national historic park, are the real attraction. They are among the oldest in North America, dating back to the early 18th Century. These lesser known missions are a great alternative to often-crowded, more touristy Alamo.
4. When they return home, San Antonio tourists can expect to repeatedly be asked: “Did you see the Alamo?” It is hard to pass up the mission, even though it is bound to be crowded (2.5 million people pass through the site each year). Luckily, it is possible to arrive at early, at 9 a.m. Monday through Saturday, to avoid the peak-time crowds. Also, during summer weekends, the building remains open until 7 p.m. Of course, it’s free to enter.
5. The Riverwalk is San Antonio’s lengthy entertainment promenade. The shaded walkways, water and laid-back atmosphere make is a great place for a stroll. Of course, the restaurants, bars and shops on the riverbanks aren’t free, but Riverwalk is a great place for window-shopping and there are several art galleries and museums in the area.
6. El Mercado is one of the largest Mexican markets north of the border. Aside from the virtually unlimited amount of goods up for sale, there are musical and cultural performances, kids’ activities, and crafts during Primer Sabado, First Saturday. The area in and around El Mercado is a great place to get a taste of the Mexican culture that is so much a part of San Antonio’s identity.
7. Art is a major part of San Antonio’s culture. San Antonio Art Walk is usually held on the first Friday of every month. It takes place in the Arts District, which is located in the Southtown area of the city. Aside from the art (and free snacks, if your lucky), there are usually local bands, of all genres, performing.
8. Though they typically charge admission, several San Antonio museums waive entrance fees at certain times during the week. Chase Bank sponsors a free night at the San Antonio Museum of Art. It takes place between 4 p.m. and 9 p.m. each Tuesday. The Witte Museum, an exhibit hall featuring the natural history, culture and artifacts of Texas, offers free admission between 3 and 8 on Tuesday evenings.
9. San Antonio Summer Jazz and Art Festival, often shortened to San Antonio Summer Fest (or just SAS Fest) is a three day event that takes place on the first weekend in June. Though it has not reached to same attendance numbers as springtime’s Fiesta, SAS Fest is worth a visit. There are a dozen jazz concerts, music workshops, a craft fair and plenty of food. It’s free to listen to music.
10. San Antonio’s Main Plaza, located in front of the Alamo and near the Riverwalk, is the heart of the city. There is a series of free concerts held each year. But it doesn’t stop with music. There are dances, theater performances, movie screenings and fashion shows. Most of these events take place during the warmer months, between April and October.
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