Free Family Fun in San Antonio
Take a Ranger-Led Tour at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Join a free, wheelchair-accessible guided walk with a National Park Ranger at Mission San José daily at 10:00 a.m. and 11:00 a.m., starting from the Visitor Center (no programs on the first Wednesday of each month).
Become a Junior Ranger
Begin your visit to the San Antonio Missions by picking up an activity book at the Visitor Center at Mission San José and ask about how to be a San Antonio Missions World Heritage Junior Ranger!
Family Fun at the Rock at La Cantera
You can catch a showing of a Spurs game, attend a free event at Frost Plaza, or explore the trails and one of the largest dog parks in San Antonio.
Events at Travis Park
In one of San Antonio's oldest parks, you can participate in free events like movie nights, yoga classes, and seasonal festivals - be sure to catch the Christmas tree during the holidays!
Picnic at Brackenridge Park
Make memories the family talks about for years to come when you enjoy a picnic, go for a walk, or explore the park's scenic areas.
Attend Free Events at the Tobin Center for the Performing Arts
Watch a free movie at Will's Plaza every month, or attend a free wellness event, such as yoga or a drum circle.
Slab Cinema
Movie fanatics can check out their event calendar for free movie showings around the city.
Hemisfair District
Enjoy a family-friendly day at Yanaguanna Garden, which features playgrounds and splash pads; catch a free event at the new Civic Park; and explore the vibrant art installations throughout the area.
San Antonio Museum of Science and Technology
Learn about STEM through interactive exhibits and demonstrations.
Peruse Landa Library
Visit the beautiful historic Landa Library and its surrounding gardens.
Central Library
Check out the unique architecture of this library, designed by Ricardo Legorreta.
Walk beneath the Holiday River Walk Lights
You won’t want to miss this spectacular illuminating experience every year in December, the most magical display of lights in the country.
Holidays on Houston St.
This annual December event features free activities in downtown San Antonio, including an outdoor market.
San Antonio's Free History & Heritage Experiences
Visit The Alamo
One of the most iconic sites in Texas, The Alamo, is a must-visit for history buffs. Entry tickets are free, but must be reserved in advance.
Explore San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Take a self-guided tour and discover four of the five missions that make up this UNESCO World Heritage Site and a member of the National Park Service.
Learn About the Espada Aqueduct
Step back in time to this still-functioning aqueduct, part of the mission system.
Explore History at the Bexar Heritage Center
The Bexar County Heritage Center brings our local history to life with interactive exhibits, fascinating artifacts, and powerful stories that celebrate the people and culture that made San Antonio shine!
Discover the Padre Margil Pilgrimage Center
Learn about the mission's history and experience the culture of its mission communities.
Wander the Historic Farm Fields
Visit the small demonstration farm at Mission San Juan. This section shows visitors how the farm fields surrounding the mission would have been irrigated by acequias (irrigation ditches).
San Fernando Cathedral
Visit one of the oldest cathedrals in the U.S. and enjoy its stunning architecture.
San Antonio | The Saga
Experience the free 24-minute Saga projection, a mesmerizing light show on San Fernando Cathedral's historic façade, attracting visitors worldwide.
St. Joseph’s Church
Learn about the city’s German heritage at this historic downtown church.
Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower
Take a free heritage tour of this stunning basilica.
Oldest VFW Hall in Texas
Spend an evening at this historic venue.
Holocaust Memorial Museum
Learn about the history of the Holocaust at this educational museum.
Vietnam and Korean War Memorials
Pay your respects at these memorials dedicated to veterans.
Fort Sam Quadrangle and Museum
Explore this historic military site and see the resident peacocks.
Explore the Historic Cemeteries of the Eastside
Take a self-guided tour of the historic cemeteries on San Antonio’s Eastside, including the City Cemetery No. 1 and San Fernando Cemetery No. 2. These cemeteries offer a fascinating glimpse into the city’s past, with graves dating back to the 19th century and markers reflecting the diverse cultures that have shaped San Antonio.
Haunted History
Embark on a self-guided tour through the eerie lobbies of the Menger and Gunter Hotels, where historic artifacts add to the spooky atmosphere.
Stroll Downtown San Antonio River Walk
Experience the vibrant atmosphere of the River Walk, perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Walk Mission Reach River Walk
Explore the extended River Walk via bike or kayak, which connects to the historic missions.
Explore Museum Reach River Walk
Discover outdoor art installations along this section of the River Walk.
Take a Walk with Amigo Walking Tours
Experience San Antonio’s rich history on a free walking tour with this top-rated experience, highlighting iconic landmarks like The Alamo, San Fernando Cathedral, the River Walk, and Hemisfair Park, and sharing stories from expert local guides.
San Pedro Creek Culture Park
Explore the newly redesigned San Pedro Creek Culture Park, a world-class linear park on the west side of downtown that blends public art, architectural design, local craft, and historic preservation with engineering, ecosystem restoration, and native landscaping.
Free Yoga
Join a free yoga class with Mobile Om, which hosts multiple free classes around the city.
Legacy Park
Attend a free event at this urban park in the heart of downtown.
Hemisfair Grotto
Located right behind the Henry B. González Convention Center, this scenic section of the River Walk, known as The Grotto, is a hidden gem featuring lush trees, waterfalls, and even a few resident ducks!
Bexar County Hot Wells Park
Walk through the historic ruins of this once-popular hot springs resort.
Woodlawn Lake Park
Relax by the lake or take a leisurely walk around the park.
Greenway Trails of San Antonio
Explore the extensive network of trails for walking, biking, or birding.
Cibolo Nature Center
Take a short drive to Boerne and explore the natural landscapes at this beautiful nature center.
The Blue Hole at UIW
Visit the San Antonio River headwaters on the University of the Incarnate Word campus.
Friedrich Wilderness Park
Take a scenic hike through Friedrich Park to experience the natural beauty of San Antonio’s Hill Country.
Confluence Park
Join a free Ecology tour at Confluence Park every 4th Saturday of the month, or attend one of their free events to explore the park's unique architecture, ecosystems, and sustainability themes.
Scenic Overlook at Comanche Lookout Park
Hike to the top of this park for panoramic views of San Antonio and the surrounding Hill Country.
Historic Pearl
Explore the Pearl District, known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and beautiful architecture.
River Walk Grotto
Visit this hidden gem, a man-made cave along the River Walk Museum Reach section.
La Villita Historic Arts Village
Stroll through this historic arts village and discover local artists and their work. Make sure to stop by every Saturday for their free Market Days.
King William Historic District
Take a leisurely walk through this beautiful neighborhood known for its grand historic homes.
Mitchell Lake Audubon Center
Join a free beginner birding tour every fourth Saturday of the month at the 1,200-acre sanctuary, home to over 300 bird species annually.
Love Lock Bridge
Add a lock to the Kallison Love Lock Walk Bridge near the downtown River Walk.
Hays Street Bridge
Walk across this historic bridge for stunning views of the San Antonio skyline, especially at sunset
Ruby City
Visit this contemporary art center showcasing innovative works from local and international artists.
Artpace
Experience cutting-edge contemporary art at this gallery, known for its artist residencies.
Explore Blue Star Arts Complex
Visit this contemporary art hub featuring galleries, studios, weekend markets, and creative spaces.
First Fridays in Southtown
Experience local art, music, and culture during this monthly event.
San Antonio Art League and Museum
Explore this small museum dedicated to Texas artists.
The Carver Gallery at the Carver Community Cultural Center
Enjoy a free lobby art show at this cultural hub.
McNay Art Museum
Visit the McNay Art Museum for free on the first Sunday of each month, Thursday evenings from 4-9 p.m., or any time for military, veterans, and their families, courtesy of USAA, and explore its extensive modern art collection.
Southtown Art Gallery Hop
Explore Southtown’s art galleries during the Second Saturday Artwalk, where local galleries open their doors for free to showcase their latest exhibitions.
Garcia Art Glass
Watch live glassblowing demonstrations at this local studio.
La Veladora of Our Lady Guadalupe
Stop by the Westside to visit one of the largest veladoras in the world, designed by the late San Antonio artist Jesse Treviño
Peacock Alley, La Zona Cultural
Explore Peacock Alley and La Zona Cultural, vibrant hubs of art and culture, and places hosting events in San Antonio's heart.
World’s Largest Cowboy Boots
Snap a photo in front of these iconic boots at North Star Mall.
Sebastian Sculptures Tour
Go on a treasure hunt to find the six sculptures by Sebastian, starting with the Torch of Friendship.
Free Cultural Finds in San Antonio
San Antonio African American Community Archive & Museum
Delve into the rich history of African American communities in San Antonio.
MujerArtes Studio
A unique cooperative where Latina women create and sell handcrafted clay art, celebrating their cultural heritage and artistic expression.
Esperanza Peace and Justice Center
The Esperanza Peace and Justice Center frequently hosts free workshops, art classes, exhibits, and cultural events open to the public. These events focus on social justice, the arts, and culture, allowing visitors to engage with the local community.
Historic Market Square
Browse through local shops and enjoy the lively atmosphere at this traditional Mexican marketplace.
Guadalupe Latino Bookstore & Gift Shop
Support local authors and browse through a unique collection of books.
Mexican Cookbook Collection
Discover culinary history by visiting the historic Mexican Cookbook Collection at UTSA.
Stable Hall
One of San Antonio's newest entertainment venues features a variety of free performances and live shows throughout the year.
Historic Guadalupe Cultural Arts Center
Explore free exhibits and community events at this cultural hub dedicated to preserving and promoting Latino arts and culture.
Instituto de Mexico (Mexican Cultural Institute)
Inside Hemisfair District, the Instituto de Mexico offers free exhibits, performances, and events celebrating Mexico’s rich heritage and contemporary scene. It’s a great way to learn about Mexican traditions and art.
San Antonio Performance Groups
Musical Bridges Around the World and Youth Orchestra of San Antonio offer free performances around the city and seasonal concert series!
River Walk Artisan Show
Browse handmade crafts from over 40 artisans at this free event along the downtown River Walk.
River Walk Parades
Enjoy the vibrant parades along the downtown River Walk! Most are free, but some may require tickets or have paid seating. Check ahead to plan your visit! 🎉
Fiesta
Fiesta San Antonio features over 100+ events during this two-week celebration in April. Make sure to check out the free festivities open to the public.
Luminaria Contemporary Arts Festival
Experience this free annual festival showcasing local artists and performers through immersive light, sound, and art installations across downtown venues, making it one of the largest art festivals in the country!
Siclovía
Join this free biannual event, during which major streets in San Antonio are closed to vehicles, allowing people to walk, run, bike, and play.
Mission Marquee Plaza
Every 1st + 3rd Saturday of the month, experience free movie showings and a Farmers Market.
Dia de los Muertos
San Antonio has the US's largest Dia de los Muertos celebrations; most are free.
DiwaliSA
This annual fall event features a free river parade and festival at Hemisfair.