Top 17 Outdoor Activities in San Antonio, TX

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site found in Texas, which means it’s definitely worth a visit. Within the park, guests can check out four of the five Spanish frontier mission outposts that were established by Catholics in hopes to spread Christianity among San Antonio natives. This historical area spans nine miles and it’s a superb spot for a long walk or workout accompanied by a cultural lesson. The park is open seven days a week. 

The Natural Bridge Caverns in San Antonio are considered an underground playground that can be enjoyed by visitors of all ages and interests. As the largest commercial caverns in the state with a 60-foot natural limestone bridge, guests are sure to be captivated by their surroundings. It’s best to explore the Natural Bridge Caverns in a guided tour and several of these are offered daily. This way, visitors can learn the history and science behind the incredible network of underground formations, tunnels, and caves. Tickets are required for the guided tours and for entry into the attraction. 

On a hot day, fishing along a picturesque, flowing river can be exactly what one needs -- it’s an easy way to cool off without having to submerge your entire body. The Medina River Natural Area encompasses 500 acres of cypress and pecan trees, and is home to bird species like the painted bunting and green kingfisher. They are drawn to the river because of its fish population. Fishing is allowed at multiple river access points but it’s important to note that a valid fishing license is required. Swimming and boating is not permitted but there’s a very scenic trail that weaves through the natural area, which is perfect for walking and running. 

Hill Country State Natural Area offers gorgeous views and an impressive trail network filled with options for beginner, experienced, and advanced hikers. The area used to be the former Merrick Bar-O-Ranch, which was open from 1856 to the 1970s and can be found about 40 miles from San Antonio’s city core. Even though it’s only an hour’s drive from San Antonio, the plants and country landscape make visitors feel as if they are far, far away from all of the hustle and bustle. Beyond beautiful plants, travelers may catch a glimpse of white-tailed deer, armadillos, wild turkeys, skunks, opossums, rabbits, raccoons, and fox squirrels. If you’re not keen on hiking or walking, the trails can also be used for horseback riding and mountain biking. Because the Texas weather is no joke in the summer, it’s best to visit the park for a walk or hike in the spring or fall when the temperatures are a little cooler. In the summer, arriving at the park in the early morning is a wise idea.

After a few days of sightseeing and being on the move, it might be nice to schedule in a little outdoor relaxation. At Lost Maples State Natural Area, you can do just that. This gorgeous park, which is located along the Sabinal River, is approximately a two-hour drive from San Antonio, so you’ll want to pack everything that you’ll need to spend the day. Think picnic blankets and chairs, snacks, a stocked cooler, a few outdoor games, and sunscreen. At the park, guests can go hiking, fishing, bird-watching, geocaching, and stargazing once the sun goes down. It’s a popular destination to visit year round but in the fall, many like to admire the trees' orange and red leaves.

Enchanted Rock truly provides a one-of-a-kind experience as it is a stunning, 425-foot pink granite monolith surrounded by lush greenery that’s home to many critters and creatures. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is located around 90 miles from San Antonio but it’s definitely worth the journey. The granite has been known to creak and groan as it heats up and cools down, and some say this is part of its magical powers. Guests can hike to the top of the rock in an hour but proper footwear and clothing should be worn to avoid injury. For those who don’t feel like hiking, the natural area is also a superb spot for picnics, bird-watching, and searching for unique types of flora and fauna. There is a day use fee applicable to adults and children.

The San Marcos River is a must-visit spot for folks who consider themselves outdoor recreation enthusiasts. It bubbles from tons of springs from the Edwards Aquifer, creating a refreshingly cool 72-degree river that’s ideal for floating, tubing, kayaking, snorkeling, and fishing. Floating down the river in a tube is a popular activity among visitors and this doesn’t cost a penny. The San Marcos River is about an hour-long drive from San Antonio and if you don’t have access to a car, there are public transit options available. 

The River Walk offers an incomparable way to experience downtown San Antonio. The path extends along a 15-mile urban waterway and passes by restaurants, bars, shops, hotels, galleries, and other popular points of interest. As you stroll by eateries and boutiques, you’ll also get to soak in some picture-worthy waterfront views. The San Antonio River Walk is a free activity but of course, popping into a nearby restaurant for a blended margarita and some nachos will cost you.

Aquatica is far from a city park splash pad, although these are still an affordable and exciting option for children. This family-friendly water park is located next to SeaWorld and has water rides for people of all ages and comfort levels. There are tons of waterslides (some of which seem pretty extreme!), pools and rivers, and other attractions for kids. It’s easy to spend the entire day at Aquatica as it also boasts cabanas and all-day dining options, perfect for nourishment after working up an appetite from swimming in the pools. Recently, Kata’s Kookaburra Cove opened for the little ones -- a 3,000-square-foot safe splash area filled with whimsical sea creature play elements. It’s best to visit Aquatica during the week, if possible, as it gets very busy on the weekends. Tickets are required.

Guadalupe River State Park is just under a 45-minute drive from San Antonio. The exceptionally beautiful park encompasses a 9-mile stretch of the Guadalupe River, and is filled with tree-lined trails that are great for walking, running, and biking. As for the river itself, many visitors rent kayaks, canoes, and tubes, as this is a convenient (and incredibly relaxing) way to see all that the State Park has to offer. The park spans over 2,000-acres, which means you won’t get to see it all in just an hour or two, so be sure to set aside an entire morning and afternoon for the one-of-a-kind outdoor adventure. The park does loan fishing gear to fishing enthusiasts eager to test their luck on the river.

A zoo is always a hit with families traveling with young children, and the San Antonio Zoo is no exception. Located in Brackenridge Park, the zoo is home to animals like komodo dragons, otters, hyenas, bears, white lemurs, leopards, reptiles, monkeys, fish, dwarf mongoose, zebras, giraffes, rhinos, and many, many more. Conservation is incredibly important to the San Antonio Zoo and the staff work with several partners to protect the animals, especially endangered species. Tickets are required for admission, and evenings and weekends are the optimal time to visit as it is less crowded. 

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