With over 600 public art installations, several world-class museums, and endless gallery spaces across town, San Antonio is one of the best cities to immerse yourself in arts and culture. While known for our culinary heritage and breathtaking sights, centuries of history and a thriving local art scene have also given the Alamo City its identity as a unique and culturally rich destination. Here’s what you can look forward to this season.
An Outdoor Art Sanctuary
In our humble opinion, San Antonio’s public art scene is second to none. The City of San Antonio’s Department of Arts & Culture alone has erected over 600 art installations across the city, which you can view on an interactive map. And the art keeps coming with a newly added mural, Iluminación de la Plaza.
Did you know that the San Antonio Street Art Initiative, an artist-run, independent, non-profit, is also building the “largest outdoor gallery in Texas” that is set to deliver over 100 large-scale, public murals to San Antonio by the end of 2024? In fact, Phase VI of the project is set to be completed soon, bringing brand new murals to view.
It doesn’t get more “cultural” than the San Pedro Creek Culture Park. This newly redesigned public space combines outdoor art, downtown views, and historic preservation into one world-class linear park. If you’re visiting in November, participate in a community drum circle for free or just walk the 3,905 linear feet of paseos in beautiful south Texas weather.
More Than Just A Museum
The San Antonio Museum of Art contains one of the most impressive art collections in the US, featuring 5000 years of artwork. The building holds its historical significance, once home to the Lone Star Brewery. On view now at SAMA is a temporary exhibition running through January 7, 2024 and spanning over 250 years of American art.
Saddle up and ride on over to the Briscoe Western Art Museum. Transport yourself back in time to the old American West through the preservation of art and history. Be sure to check the current exhibition, Anouk Masson Krantz: American Cowboys, on display through Januaru 22, 2024.
Did you know that San Antonio is home to the first-ever modern art museum in Texas? That is thanks to the McNay Art Museum and its founder, Marion Koogler McNay. From its impressive collection to its many community events, the McNay is a must-visit destination during the fall. Currently on view is Dreamland | Tim Burton's The Nightmare Before Christmas. This one has proven to be very popular, be sure to grab your tickets ahead of time!
Theater, Literature & Galleries Galore
Thespians and lovers of live performances need not look any further. The Public Theater of San Antonio, the longest-running theater in Texas, is planning A Christmas Carol: A Ghost Story production like no other. In collaboration with Stage Hands, this incredible adaptation of Charles Dickens’ timeless novel by Tim Hedgepeth and Anthony Ciaravino is a fully presented in both spoken word and American Sign Language!
You can also catch Andrea Bocelli and other unforgettable performances at the Tobin Center this fall. In the Southtown Arts District, you can visit and shop from local artists and vendors at the Blue Star Arts Complex at Third Thursday or during regular hours. Lastly, book lovers can visit the Guadalupe Cultural Art Center’s Latino Bookstore during second Friday for its monthly installment of the center’s Texas authors series.
Check out our calendar of events for even more fun and cultural events.