6 Must-Visit Art Exhibits to See in January
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Going to Texas: Five Centuries of Texas Maps | Briscoe Western Art Museum
On view through January 19, 2026
Located along the River Walk, the Briscoe Western Art Museum explores the art, history, and culture of the American West.
This exhibition showcases rare and historic maps that trace how Texas has been imagined, documented, and defined over nearly 500 years, from colonial beginnings to the present day.
Why this exhibit is a must-visit: You will see Texas not just as a place, but as an evolving idea shaped by centuries of exploration and change.
30th Annual Virgen de Guadalupe Exhibition | Centro Cultural Aztlan
On view through January 20, 2026
Centro Cultural Aztlan is a cornerstone of San Antonio’s Westside arts scene, known for celebrating Latino and Indigenous cultural expression.
This long-running annual exhibition features powerful artistic interpretations of La Virgen de Guadalupe by San Antonio artists, highlighting her spiritual, cultural, and historical significance across generations.
Why this exhibit is a must-visit: It offers a deeply moving look at one of the most enduring icons in Latin American culture through local voices and creative traditions.
Texas Legacy: Hidden Gems from the Permanent Collection | San Antonio Art League & Museum
On view January 11 - February 19, 2026
Housed in a historic Mediterranean Revival home, the San Antonio Art League & Museum has championed Texas artists for more than a century.
This exhibition brings rarely seen works out of storage, revealing paintings that span twelve decades and reflect the evolving story of art in Texas.
Why this exhibit is a must-visit: You get a rare chance to see forgotten works that quietly shaped Texas’s artistic legacy.
Ferias, Parques y Plazas: A Celebration of Public Space | McNay Art Museum
On view January 8 - April 13, 2026
The McNay Art Museum blends a historic mansion with modern indoor and outdoor galleries and a strong global collection.
This vibrant exhibition explores how artists have captured the energy of public spaces, from markets and plazas to parks filled with music, movement, and community life.
Why this exhibit is a must-visit: It celebrates the joy, connection, and shared experiences that unite communities.
Maya Blue: Ancient Color, New Visions | San Antonio Museum of Art
On view through May 10, 2026
Set inside a former brewery along the Museum Reach of the River Walk, the San Antonio Museum of Art is known for its global collections.
This exhibition examines the cultural and symbolic importance of the color blue in ancient Maya art, pairing historic works with contemporary pieces that reflect its lasting influence.
Why this exhibit is a must-visit: It connects ancient creativity with modern ideas in a way that feels thoughtful and surprisingly current.
Daniel Rios Rodriguez: Open This Wall | Ruby City
On view through October 4, 2026
Ruby City is one of San Antonio’s most striking contemporary art spaces, known for immersive and artist-driven exhibitions.
This year-long solo show traces more than a decade of Daniel Rios Rodriguez’s work, blending painting, sculpture, and mixed media into a deeply personal exploration of memory, place, and everyday life.
Why this exhibit is a must-visit: It is an intimate, immersive experience that captures San Antonio’s influence through the eyes of an artist shaped by the city.
5 Performances to Check Out this Month
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Everclear | Aztec Theatre
January 16, 2026
Alt-rock favorites Everclear (bonus points for longtime fans who still recognize frontman Art Alexakis as the extraordinary Mr. Gibson from Ned’s Declassified) take the stage at the Aztec Theatre with the songs that defined a generation.
Ali Wong | Majestic Theatre
January 18, 2026
Ali Wong brings her bold, unfiltered comedy to San Antonio's iconic Majestic Theatre for a night of sharp wit and fearless storytelling.
The Best of Steve Martin & Martin Short | Majestic Theatre
January 29, 2026
Two comedy legends team up for an evening filled with humor, storytelling, and plenty of surprises at the Majestic Theatre.
4 Places for Culinary Fun in San Antonio
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Grab Coffee and Lunch at The Newstand
Located in San Antonio's Cultural Corridor, The Newstand is a stylish go-to for a relaxed midday break.
The menu blends coffeehouse favorites with elevated lunch options, making it an easy spot to refuel while exploring the city.
Why it belongs on your January list: It’s casual, cool, and perfect for easing into the day at your own pace.
Upscale Dinner at Dean’s Steak & Seafood
For a polished night out, Dean’s Steak & Seafood delivers classic steakhouse dining with a refined edge.
Expect prime cuts, fresh seafood, and a menu designed for lingering over a great meal. Reservations are encouraged.
Why it belongs on your January list: January is the ideal time to dress up, slow down, and enjoy a memorable dinner.
Drinks at The Friendly Spot Ice House
A longtime local favorite, The Friendly Spot is all about laid-back vibes and good conversation.
With an expansive beer selection and a spacious outdoor setting, it’s an easy choice for an unhurried evening.
Why it belongs on your January list: Cooler weather makes this one of the best times to enjoy a relaxed drink outdoors.
Rooftop Magic at Tenfold Rooftop
Perched atop the Kimpton Santo - San Antonio Riverwalk, Tenfold Rooftop pairs skyline views with craft cocktails in a sleek setting.
It’s the kind of place that turns a simple night out into something memorable.
Why it belongs on your January list: Rooftop views hit differently when the air is crisp, and the crowds are lighter.
3 Can't-Miss Hotel Offers for the Best January Stay
Back to Top of ListHotel Contessa | Ditch the In-Laws Holiday Package
Available through January 26, 2026
Hotel Contessa makes a January escape even sweeter with a River Walk–side stay designed for a little post-holiday breathing room with savings on your room, plus a daily hotel credit to use during your stay.
Why this deal works for January: It’s an easy excuse to trade holiday hosting for river views and a change of scenery.
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Menger Hotel | Book Early and Save Package
Available through March 31, 2026
Planning ahead pays off at the historic Menger Hotel with advance-purchase savings and added perks for booking direct.
Why this deal works for January: January planners can snag solid savings while enjoying one of San Antonio’s most iconic hotels.
Hotel Emma | Escape with Ease Package
Available through December 31, 2026
Hotel Emma’s Escape with Ease package is designed for a seamless stay, combining preferred room savings with thoughtful extras that elevate the experience.
Why this deal works for January: Fewer crowds make it a great time to fully enjoy everything this celebrated Pearl District hotel has to offer.
2 Meaningful Events That Shape January in San Antonio
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Join Us for One of the Largest MLK Marches in the Country
The San Antonio community, as well as visitors from across the country, come together on the third Monday in January to commemorate the life of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.
Exchange Ideas at DreamWeek San Antonio
DreamWeek San Antonio is a city-wide celebration filled with events that promote civil and civic engagements. Join us for these memorable weeks this January.
1 Thing Left to Do
Back to Top of ListWith art, live performances, meaningful events, superb dining, and seasonal hotel deals, San Antonio offers plenty of reasons to start the year with a getaway that feels thoughtful and refreshing.
Take your time, build an itinerary that fits your style, and let the city set the pace.
When you’re ready, the Visit San Antonio app makes planning simple. Use it to explore events, map out experiences, and save your favorite spots so everything you want to do is right at your fingertips.
One great January trip starts with a plan, and San Antonio is ready when you are.