The Top Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids (and Grownups, Too)

San Antonio is one of the top travel destinations in the country for families. And with so many things to do, it should come as no surprise. We’ve put together the ultimate San Antonio family vacation checklist so you don’t miss out on a single moment of family bonding. This list has something for everyone, whether you’re looking for things to do with kids (or just entertaining the kids at heart).

 

Downtown Family Activities

Downtown San Antonio is home to some of the city’s best attractions. Here are a few the kids will love.

 

GO RIO River Cruise

Smiling family on a Go Rio River Cruise on the River Walk

Board a GO RIO River Cruise and enjoy a guided river tour filled with fun facts about San Antonio’s historic River Walk. Plus, expect extended hours this summer! Take a cruise during the day, and then take another after the sun goes down and see how the city lights up at night!  

Pro Tip: This is a great first-day activity to get a feel for the river and pick out the spots you want to visit next.

 

The Alamo

You know what they say. Remember The Alamo! One of the five UNESCO World Heritage Site Missions, The Alamo is a can’t-miss historical experience. Learn about the battle and figures like Davy Crockett. Pair your Alamo trip with a visit to the two-story Ralston Family Collections Center and view the Phil Collins Collection!

Tower of the Americas

Tower of the Americas

Take a ride 750 feet up in the sky to the Tower of the Americas. The highest point in San Antonio, the observation deck offers sweeping views of the city for a truly unforgettable experience. Make sure to take a family photo at the top! Plus, be sure to check their event calendar for great summer events like Movies in the Park, Market Days, and more!

 

Made for the Kids

Ok, grownups, the next items on the list are made just for kids. But we’re pretty sure the kids at heart will have plenty of fun, too.

 

LEGOLAND Discovery Center

Legoland-San-Fernando

If the kids are into LEGO, you must take them to the LEGOLAND Discovery Center. This is the ultimate LEGO playground, where kids can meet their favorite characters, go on a LEGO Kingdom Quest, and see a full LEGO build of the San Antonio skyline. Our favorite part? Catching a movie at the LEGO cinema!

 

Liggettville Adventure Center

LiggettVille Adventure Center

Get ready to climb, zipline, and have tons of indoor fun at Liggettville Adventure Center. This giant indoor playground is the perfect place to explore during rainy vacation days or hot summer afternoons. And who doesn't love to save? For a limited time, use promo code COOL24 at checkout for 10% off Premier and Premier Tykes combo tickets!

 

The DoSeum

DoSeum

The DoSeum is San Antonio’s museum made just for kids! Interactive exhibits allow children to explore with hands-on learning. Exhibits include Little Town, Spy Academy, and the Big Outdoors playground.

Coming June 1st, check out their latest exhibit, Dogs! A Science Tail, where your children can learn all about dogs and explore life from a dog's perspective! 

 

Let Your Wild Side Out

Do you have an animal lover in your family? These attractions are the perfect place to explore and let your wild side out.

 

SEA LIFE SAN ANTONIO

Sea Life Family In Tunnel

Walk through San Antonio’s only ocean tunnel and pet stingrays at SEA LIFE. This aquarium attraction is the perfect spot to dive into some fun!

Walk through San Antonio's only ocean tunnel and get hands-on experiences with marine life at the interactive Rockpool! 

 

San Antonio Zoo

Exterior of zoo with topiary in the shape of an ape

Want to take a walk on the wild side? At the San Antonio Zoo, you can ride on the Zoo Train, feed giraffes, or even get up close and personal on a behind-the-scenes excursion.

 

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

The Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch was voted one of the best outdoor experiences in Texas, and it’s easy to see why! Here, your car is your own safari excursion. Drive the trail and get a close-up look at your favorite animals. You can even feed them!

 

For the Thrill Seekers 

If you’re a family of thrill seekers, look no further! San Antonio is home to some of the country’s best amusement parks.

 

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

Kids screaming on roller coaster

Six Flags Fiesta Texas offers fun for everyone in the family. Explore the DC Universe, ride classic coasters, and test your bravery on new ones - like the all-new KID FLASH Cosmic Coaster. And cool off at Hurricane Harbor, opening April 27, 2024.

Then end the night with a fireworks show that lights up the city at their Summer Nights Spectacular, which happens every Saturday from May 25 through August 10, 2024. 

 

Morgan's Wonderland

Ferris wheel at theme park

Morgan’s Wonderland is the world’s first Ultra-Accessible™ family fun park designed for people of all ages and abilities, which means everyone in the family can take part in the experience. And there's so much more to explore this year with new rides and attractions like Jette's Wonder Bikes, Rocket's Sky Flight Adventure, a 4D Cinema, and more!

 

SeaWorld San Antonio

Girl walking into aquarium with dolphin at SeaWorld San Antonio

From thrill rides to animal encounters, SeaWorld San Antonio is sure to make a splash on the family vacation checklist. Will your kids want to take a ride on the Steel Eel or meet an Orca first? Then take your pick from thrilling ride options, will you start with the brand-new Catapult Falls or show off your nerves of steel at the Steel Eel?

 

Family-Friendly SA Restaurants

After a day of fun, it’s time to refuel. Here are some of the best family-friendly restaurants in San Antonio.

 

Casa Rio

Casa Rio Umbrellas

Casa Rio was the first restaurant to open on the River Walk, and it’s still a family-loved classic almost eight decades later.

 

Backyard on Broadway

Backyard on Broadway is a slice of your home backyard in the middle of all the action. Enjoy classic eats and kick back with a drink while the kiddos take to the playground.

 

Rainforest Cafe

Dining room with fake trees

Rainforest Cafe is guaranteed to be a fun adventure, especially if you conclude your meal and day with a Sparkling Volcano cake!