Why San Antonio Should Be on Your 2026 Travel List
Planning a trip in 2026 and wondering where to go next? San Antonio is stepping into the new year with major new attractions, hotel upgrades, museum exhibitions, and cultural experiences that make it one of the most exciting cities to visit in Texas.
From the return of gorillas at the San Antonio Zoo and major enhancements at The Alamo to newly renovated hotels, headline concerts, and must-see museum exhibitions, 2026 brings fresh reasons to rediscover the Alamo City — even if you’ve been here before.
If you’re looking for what’s new, what’s next, and what makes San Antonio worth visiting in 2026, here are the highlights you won’t want to miss.
✅ What’s New at the San Antonio Zoo in 2026
Gorillas Return to the Zoo with the New Congo Falls Habitat
The San Antonio Zoo is officially in its gorilla era again. After a 35-year absence, western lowland gorillas have returned to the zoo with the opening of Congo Falls, a brand-new, two-acre habitat that welcomed its first residents in late 2025.
The habitat opened to the public on December 13, 2025, marking a significant milestone for the zoo and for gorilla conservation.
Congo Falls is home to incredible western lowland gorillas, including newcomers from Zoo Atlanta and Dallas Zoo, plus Ajari, a 25-year-old male who anchors the family group. This two-acre realm packs in three unique habitats, a waterfall and water-play zones, and Silverback Peak, the world’s tallest gorilla tower soaring more than 70 feet!
Coming Summer 2026: Brewer Ocean Conservation Lab at the San Antonio Zoo
After visiting the gorillas, be sure to come back to the San Antonio Zoo this summer for the Brewer Ocean Conservation Lab, a 937-square-foot, state-of-the-art space opening next to the historic Friedrich Aquarium.
This new learning lab will spotlight deep-water Texas and international coral species, a touch tank, and hands-on education that lets visitors get up close to one of the most important ecosystems on the planet!
✅ New and Renovated Hotels in San Antonio for 2026
Signia by Hilton La Cantera Unveils a $40 Million Renovation
Even if you’ve stayed at Signia by Hilton La Cantera before, it’s time for a comeback. This Hill Country favorite recently completed an 11-month, $40 million renovation of all guest rooms and private villas.
The updated spaces pull inspiration from Texas’s iconic King Ranch style with warm woods, natural stone, and earthy colors that feel right at home in the resort’s sweeping 550-acre setting. In other words, it’s still the La Cantera you loved, but with a fresh, elevated look that makes a 2026 getaway feel brand new.
Coming Fall 2026: Morgan’s Hotel Near Morgan’s Wonderland
Morgan’s Hotel is set to open steps from Morgan’s Wonderland, and it is aiming to raise the bar with an Ultra-Accommodating style of hospitality. The hotel focuses on intentional design, smart technology, and a staff trained to anticipate guests' needs before they ask.
The goal is a stay that feels personally tailored, indulgent, and convenient, while remaining affordable.
New & Recently Opened Hotels in San Antonio
Ready to Live the Suite Life? These New Hotels are Redefining Luxury Stays in San Antonio. Looking for the newest hotels in San Antonio? From Kimpton and InterContinental to the renovated Plaza and the upcoming Monarch, here’s your updated 2025 guide to San Antonio’s newest and most luxurious stays.
✅ Even More Visitor Enhancements at the Alamo
First Stop: A Brand New Welcome Center
2026 is the perfect time to visit The Alamo. Start at the brand-new Welcome Center located at the historic Menger Hotel, where you'll find an even smoother arrival experience than ever before with a dedicated area for tickets and essentials.
Next Stop: The Alamo Promenade
Even better, the Alamo Promenade recently opened in November 2025, creating a fresh, pedestrian-friendly gateway into the grounds with shaded seating and statues honoring key historical figures. It’s a brand-new front door to one of Texas's most iconic places.
Coming Soon: Paseo del Alamo and More
And the upgrades keep rolling. In Spring 2026, the Paseo del Alamo is scheduled to connect the Alamo to the San Antonio River Walk, making it easier than ever to pair this historic stop with a downtown stroll.
The Texas Cavaliers Education Center is also set to open in 2026, and preservation work on the Alamo Church is scheduled to begin in Spring 2026.
Plus, for a fun pop-culture twist, The Alamo has acquired Pee-wee Herman’s screen-used bicycle from Pee-wee’s Big Adventure, which will be featured in the future Visitor Center and Museum opening in Fall 2027!
✅ Must-See Museum Exhibitions in San Antonio for 2026
San Antonio's beloved museums are all welcoming new exhibits you won't want to miss in 2026. Here is a taste of what you can expect to see throughout the year.
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McNay Art Museum
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Sandy Skoglund: Enchanting Nature | On View Through February 1, 2026: Step into this exhibit showcasing artist Sandy Skoglund's wildly imaginative, detail-packed installations and photographs, including Radioactive Cats, Revenge of the Goldfish, and the new Fresh Hybrid.
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The Witte Museum
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The Steves Family: Building San Antonio | On View Through June 21, 2026: Discover this fascinating, hands-on exhibit that traces how one family’s craftsmanship and civic spirit helped shape the city, featuring rare artifacts, historic photos, and interactive experiences like a family tree and a recreated King William dining table.
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San Antonio Museum of Art
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New African Masquerades: Artistic Innovations and Collaborations | February 27, 2026 - July 5, 2026: Visit this groundbreaking exhibition of newly commissioned contemporary West African masquerade art, featuring vibrant complete ensembles and an immersive 360-degree video that brings the makers, materials, and performances to life.
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And More
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The list of museums in San Antonio is endless, with an even longer list of exciting exhibitions to check out. For even more museums, visit our Arts & Culture page now!
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✅ Major Concerts and Live Performances Coming to San Antonio in 2026
San Antonio's beloved museums are all welcoming new exhibits you won't want to miss in 2026. Here is a taste of what you can expect to see throughout the year.
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The Alamodome
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AC/DC | July 24, 2026
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My Chemical Romance | September 12, 2026
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Guns N' Roses | September 16, 2026
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Iron Maiden | September 29, 2026
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The Aztec Theatre
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Everclear | January 16, 2026
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Los Lonely Boys | February 13, 2026
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Cradle of Filth | April 30, 2026
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Silversun Pickups | May 17, 2026
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Boeing Center at Tech Port
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Morrissey | January 10, 2026
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Black Label Society | February 27, 2026
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Dethklock & Amon Amarth | April 17, 2026
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Bilmuri | April 25, 2026
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And More
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San Antonio stages consistently host talented singers, actors, comedians, and performers. Head to our Arts & Culture page now for even more performing arts locations!
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Did you know that San Antonio is the top destination in Texas for free activities? Whether you're a local eager to discover something new or a visitor aiming to experience the best of the city without spending a dime, San Antonio has plenty to offer.