San Antonio basks in over 250 days of sunshine each year, and there’s no better way to enjoy it than by exploring the city’s incredible outdoor spaces.

From scenic parks to stunning gardens, San Antonio offers endless opportunities for outdoor adventures. After countless sunny days spent exploring, we’ve rounded up the top seven most unique outdoor spots in the city.

Seven Outdoor Spaces in San Antonio Unlike Any Other

Civic Park at Hemisfair

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Civic Park at Hemisfair
Photo by Civic Park & Hemisfair

Civic Park at Hemisfair is the perfect place to beat the heat and escape the hustle and bustle of Downtown. Nestled between the Mexican Cultural Institute and the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, the park offers an expansive lawn for lounging or a rousing game of frisbee.

When the afternoon warms up, kick off your shoes and plunge your feet into the cooling springs. 

The San Antonio River Walk

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The River Walk bridge with Tower of the Americas in backgroundYou're probably familiar with the Downtown portion of the River Walk, but did you know that the San Antonio River Walk extends 15 miles from end to end? Make a day of River Walk explorations and start at the Museum Reach for opportunities to catch stunning art pieces both indoors at the San Antonio Museum of Art and outdoors with brilliant pieces of public art along the way! 

Then make your way through downtown and head south toward the Mission Reach where you'll end with San Antonio Missions National Historical Park!

Brackenridge Park

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Explore the historic charm and endless fun of Brackenridge Park, a beloved outdoor oasis in San Antonio. Nestled along a stretch of the San Antonio River, this park is home to iconic attractions like the Japanese Tea Garden, the San Antonio Zoo, and the Sunken Garden Theater.

Whether you’re enjoying a family picnic, a jog on the trails, or a peaceful moment by Lambert Beach, Brackenridge Park offers something for everyone. With its rich history and vibrant scenery, it’s the perfect place to unwind and embrace the great outdoors!

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

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Woman walking through Mission San Jose in San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Discover the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the first and only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas, where you'll find a serene blend of history and nature. Located along the Mission Reach of the San Antonio River Walk, this park preserves four beautifully restored Spanish colonial missions: Mission Concepción, Mission San José, Mission San Juan, and Mission Espada.

Explore the tranquil trails connecting these historic sites, surrounded by native plants and wildlife. Perfect for history buffs and outdoor enthusiasts alike, this unique space tells the story of San Antonio’s rich cultural heritage while offering a peaceful escape along the river.

Confluence Park

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On the Mission Reach stretch of the river, you’ll find the more tranquil and peaceful Confluence Park. This living lab is meant to give visitors a better understanding of Texas ecology and the function of the San Antonio River watershed.

A pavilion of concrete pillars marks the entrance to the park while also functioning as a water catchment system. Visitors can also explore nature installations like the North American Friendship Garden, a 2,500-square-foot pollinator garden. 

Main Plaza + San Antonio | The Saga

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By day, stroll through the historic Main Plaza and enjoy the serene sights, including San Fernando Cathedral. It's the perfect place to relax with a cup of coffee or sit with a good book. Plus, periodic events bring this area to life in the heart of San Antonio. 

By night, San Fernando Cathedral becomes a backdrop for a brilliant light show that takes you through the journey of San Antonio's past, present, and future. Titled San Antonio | The Saga, this 24-minute light show by artist Xavier de Richemont is a must-see! The Saga runs rain or shine all year long. Be sure to check the Main Plaza website for showtimes!

Valero Alamo Plaza

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Plaza de Valero outdoor pavilion
Photo by The Alamo Trust

You thought we didn’t remember the Alamo? Plaza de Valero officially opened at the end of 2024 and serves as a gateway to the historic mission.

The lush plaza offers tables and chairs, a green lawn, and a performance pavilion where the Alamo will host regular programming for the community, providing a brand-new gathering space in Downtown San Antonio