7 Reasons Why San Antonio is the Perfect Holiday Destination

Hear the sleigh bells jinglin' while you stroll our beautiful city. While there is certainly plenty to explore by car, many shops, hotels, restaurants, and events are within walking distance along the River Walk, which extends 15 miles from Museum Reach to Mission Reach.

It also helps to have a beautiful view - our River Walk is lit up with festive lights to guide your way from the day after Thanksgiving through the beginning of January. If you find your feet need a rest, be sure to hop aboard a GO RIO River Cruise to explore the city by river barge.

Many of San Antonio’s neighborhoods also have city centers with high walkability scores. Visit these fantastic areas and save at the pump during your holiday vacation.

You're likely already familiar with The Alamo and The River Walk - both lit up, especially for the holiday season, but did you know San Antonio has many more historical and cultural landmarks you will not find anywhere else?

Take a trip to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park and visit the only UNESCO World Heritage site in Texas where communities still thrive today.

Then, head over to Main Plaza and view a fantastic light show projected onto the facade of San Fernando Cathedral at a showing of San Antonio | The Saga.

Experience all the fantastic spots found only in San Antonio.

In San Antonio, our roots run deep, and that richness is beautifully reflected in our holiday celebrations and diverse community. No cultural experience is quite like what you’ll find here during the holidays.

One of the city’s most cherished traditions is the Mexican holiday event, Las Posadas, which re-enacts Mary and Joseph’s search for shelter and is celebrated with candle-lit processions, songs, and festive gatherings throughout local neighborhoods and churches. Additionally, the Gran Tamalada, is a beloved holiday gathering for many families, showcasing the centuries-old tradition of making tamales together — a perfect representation of how food and community play a big role in holiday celebrations here.

From the Mexican tradition of Las Posadas to German-inspired Christmas markets, San Antonio offers a holiday experience shaped by the many cultures that call this city home. It’s a place where rich heritage and modern holiday celebrations come together in a way that can only be found in San Antonio.

There is a reason San Antonio has been named one of the country's only two Creative Cities of Gastronomy. You'll find no shortage of delicious holiday flavors in San Antonio. San Antonio’s food scene shines during the holidays with seasonal dishes, unique tamale-making traditions, and holiday-inspired drinks to warm you up.

Whether dining riverside or in a historic neighborhood, there’s no shortage of culinary delights.

Get your mouth watering with some of our favorite restaurants and bars and find some of the best holiday treats in the area. 

There is no shortage of fantastic places to stay out if you plan your perfect holiday destination, and many take part in their own holiday pop-ups, extravaganzas, and more. Take JW Marriott Hill Country Resort & Spa, for example, where Whoville comes to life at ICE! Featuring Dr. Seuss' "How the Grinch Stole Christmas!"

San Antonio offers plenty of accommodations, from high-end stays at the River Walk to historic spaces near The Alamo, hotels throughout the city, resorts in the Hill Country, and more. 

From local artisan markets like the Historic Market Square to charming boutiques in the Pearl, and even shopping giants like The Shops at La Cantera, North Star Mall, and The Shops at Rivercenter, San Antonio offers plenty of options for finding unique holiday gifts.

You can shop for handcrafted goods, local art, and festive decorations that carry a special San Antonio flair.

There is no need to limit your holiday cheer; San Antonio has many exciting events for you and the family to enjoy! From Christmas at the Caverns at Natural Bridge Caverns to the must-visit Holidays on Houston Street, Holiday Lights on the River Walk, and more, it's time to make plans to visit San Antonio for the holidays!