What's New In San Antonio

As the seventh-largest city in the nation and one of the fastest growing, San Antonio always has something new and exciting to explore. Here are a few of San Antonio’s newest offerings as well as developments on the horizon.

Culture | Entertainment | Hotels | Culinary | Major Projects & Neighborhoods 

Culture

SAN ANTONIO BLACK HISTORY MUSEUM GETS BIGGER (2028)
The new San Antonio African American Community Archive and Museum (SAAACAM) Cultural Center is moving to a bigger location -- from a 600 square feet exhibition space to a 30,000 square feet exhibition space. The building will also offer classrooms, an auditorium, a special event space, a 12-room boutique hotel, a cocktail lounge, a lunch counter and exhibit and a rooftop terrace. SAAACAM’s mission is to unite diverse communities, and to provide an exploration of the profound historic contributions made by people of African descent in San Antonio and the surrounding region. Nestled near the Alamo on Houston Street, the Iconic Kress building will celebrate the untold stories and artifacts of the Black experience. The Center’s curated exhibits and dynamic programming will honor an accurate depiction of history, contributing to the advancement and progress of all humanity.

NATION’S LARGEST LATINO-FOCUSED PERFORMANCE VENUE RE-OPENING (2028)
The largest performance venue in the U.S. focusing on Latino performing arts, The Alameda Theater, will reopen in 2028 after a two-phase, multiyear, $37 million initiative to restore the historic downtown San Antonio theater. Originally completed in 1949, the theater has featured well-known performers from across the U.S., Mexico, Spain and other Latin American countries. When it reopens following its renovation, the theater will host local, regional and international artists with a variety of seating options with a capacity of up to 1,500 people. The interior will include an expanded lobby, an upstairs lounge area, a cafe and restored blacklight murals. The restoration work includes environmental and utility work, construction of a new stage extending beyond the curtains toward the audience and a tiered seating structure.

REOPENING OF THE INSTITUTE OF TEXAN CULTURES (JAN 2026)
The Institute of Texan Cultures reopened to the public on Thursday, January 29, 2026, in a new location downtown, 111 W. Houston St., Suite 100, at the corner of Camaron Street. The reopening marks the completion of an 18-month transformation, offering a fresh, dynamic experience that celebrates Texas’ cultural heritage. The main gallery, Common Threads, features four thematic areas—home and family, heritage and traditions, arts and culture, and community celebrations—brought to life through immersive multimedia, panoramic displays, and interactive touchscreens that explore artifacts, craftsmanship, migration, and community. The traveling exhibit Mumentous®: The Upsizing of a Texas Tradition, on the evolution of the Texas homecoming mom, will be on view at the opening.

SAN PEDRO CREEK CULTURE PARK (MAY 2025)
The historic San Pedro Creek was transformed from a concrete-lined drainage ditch back into a natural creek habitat and world-class linear park. This $300 million redevelopment reflects San Pedro Creek’s rich history and creates a sense of place by making the two-mile stretch more accessible with hike and bike trails and through the addition of public art by local and international artists. Overall, the linear park has 53 interpretive signs, 86 benches, two boardwalk overlooks, community spaces, art installations, tile murals, historical text, 16 colorful tile designs, four restored bridges, two locations with text etched in limestone walls, 1,070 native aquatic plants, 267 shade trees, 351 ornamental trees, 1,400 shrubs, 1,903 vines and more.

The $644 million project is estimated to have a $1.3 billion annual economic impact, according to SARA.

During the restoration of the creek, archeologists have uncovered the cornerstone of the post-Civil War-era Saint James African Methodist Episcopal Church, the first AME Church in San Antonio where Blacks worshiped autonomously and without restriction. The San Antonio River Authority halted work on the project after the church's discovery to allow for research and study. Artist Gordon Huether (Napa, CA) was selected to assemble historic quilt patterns to guide visitors through the Presence of the Past, a space designed to outline the façade and rise of the first AME church in San Antonio from 1867-1878. This journey is enriched by the AME shield that will lead visitors to an altar holding the names of the original parishioners, commemorating their contributions. The Community Engagement Pavilion brings together voices from today’s AME Church and community members across San Antonio. The Presence of the Past and the Community Engagement Pavilion together creates a space that celebrates the diverse cultural heritage of San Antonio and the enduring legacy of the St. James AME Church and its profound impact on the San Antonio community.

VILLA FINALE: MUSEUM & GARDENS: NEW VISITOR CENTER (2025)
Villa Finale finished construction for a new Visitor Center to service guests to the historic site.  Designed by Michael Imber Architects, the new structure reflects both the classical and vernacular architecture of the King William Historic District.  The one-story building of over 1800 square feet will be located on the northwest side of the property, facing the rear grounds. It accommodates a reception area, exhibit space for up to 50 visitors, two offices, two guest restrooms and a small kitchen.

WORLD HERITAGE CENTER TO OPEN (February 2025)
Completed in February 2025, the new World Heritage Center serves as a gateway to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. It provides educational opportunities and information on the history, art, and culture of the community around the missions and would be a place for San Antonio residents and visitors to gather.

THE ALAMO OPENS NEW COLLECTIONS CENTER WITH OVER FIVE HUNDRED ARTIFACTS, SOME NEVER BEFORE SEEN
Experience the Collector's Journey in a state-of-the-art curatorial environment dedicated to preservation in the new Ralston Family Collections Center. View the Phil Collins Collection - priceless artifacts gifted to the State of Texas by musician and historian, Phil Collins. Many of the artifacts are on display for the first time. Explore artifacts from the Donald and Louise Yena Spanish Colonial Collection, Alamo Collection, interactive exhibits, and more. The two-story, 24,000 square foot Ralston Family Collections Center has been built on the grounds, behind the iconic Alamo Church, to the east of the Gift Shop in the Alamo gardens. It has been prudently designed so its construction will not obstruct the breathtaking view of the Church from Alamo Plaza.

NEW HEMISFAIR PROJECT “550 MARKET STREET” INCREASES VISITOR AMENITIES IN HEART OF CITY (Late 2027)
GrayStreet Partners’ newest project at Hemisfair in downtown San Antonio, known as 550 Market Street, is moving forward with design approval and is poised to become a vibrant hub for both visitors and locals. The first phase—slated to begin construction by May 2026 and complete by late 2027—will deliver more than 54,000 sq ft of pedestrian-friendly space featuring restaurants, food and beverage options, retail, outdoor plazas and terraces, and direct access to Market Street, Civic Park, and the River Walk. The development also includes approximately 300 underground parking spaces, enhancing convenience while preserving a walkable streetscape. Future phases, expected to finish by 2030, will add additional commercial space and significant residential components, further enriching the Hemisfair district with amenities that visitors will enjoy, including lively public gathering areas, dining choices, and seamless connections to existing parks and downtown attractions.

Entertainment

WORLD’S LONGEST FAMILY LAUNCH COASTER COMING TO SIX FLAGS (2027)
Six Flags Fiesta Texas has announced Werewolf Gorge, a first-of-its-kind family launch roller coaster debuting in 2027 as part of the park’s 35th anniversary season. Set to become the world’s longest family launch coaster at 4,120 feet, the attraction will feature four launches, 32 airtime moments, immersive storytelling inspired by the Texas quarry, and a family-friendly 39-inch height requirement. The record-breaking coaster further strengthens San Antonio’s reputation as a premier destination for innovative attractions and unforgettable family adventures.

MORGAN’S WONDERLAND INTRODUCES NEW INCLUSIVE RIDE: WINGZ OF WONDER (MARCH 2026)
Morgan’s Wonderland kicked off its 17th season with the debut of WingZ of Wonder, an innovative interactive tower ride designed to be accessible for guests of all abilities. The new attraction invites riders to flap their arms to rise higher and higher, creating a shared sensation of flight through responsive motion and interactive design. Built with inclusivity at its core, WingZ of Wonder allows families and friends of all abilities to experience the thrill of the ride together while showcasing how thoughtful engineering can create truly inclusive fun.

SCHLITTERBAHN UNVEILS NEW RACING ATTRACTION FOR 2026 SEASON (MAY 2026)
Schlitterbahn New Braunfels has unveiled Wasserbahn Racers, a new high-speed, three-lane mat racing attraction set to debut for the park’s 2026 season. Built into the natural hillside near the Comal River, the 278-foot slide sends riders face-first down a series of dips and chutes at speeds of more than 24 mph before a signature splashdown. Developed by WhiteWater, the attraction also features a real-time stopwatch at the finish line, making it the only mat racing slide in Texas where guests can instantly see their race results. Wasserbahn Racers will headline a landmark season for the iconic Hill Country waterpark, which will also introduce several enhancements across the property.

NEW MAJOR ROLLER COASTER AT SEAWORLD (SPRING 2026)
SeaWorld San Antonio announced plans for Barracuda Strike, a new inverted family coaster set to open in spring 2026. As the first ride of its kind in Texas, the coaster will suspend riders beneath 1,800 feet of track, delivering fast-paced thrills with sharp turns, dramatic drops, and speeds up to 44 miles per hour. Gliding above the park’s iconic water ski lake, Barracuda Strike is designed for guests of all ages, with a minimum height requirement of just 42 inches, making it an exciting new addition and the park’s eighth roller coaster overall.

NEW NATURE PLAYSCAPE AT BRACKENRIDGE PARK (Summer 2027) 
Opening in Summer 2027, the new “Nature Playscape” is a 2-acre, nature-inspired, inclusive play area for children and families on the north end of Brackenridge Park, bordered by the San Antonio River. Designed with sustainability and accessibility in mind, it will feature slides, swings, climbing towers, water play, a riverbed canyon theme, and sensory/creative play spaces. The project replaces the long-closed Joske Pavilion playground and reflects extensive community input to balance fun with preservation of trees and cultural heritage.

THE LARGEST DC UNIVERSE AT ANY THEME PARK IN THE COUNTRY IS AT SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS (2025)
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is now home to the largest DC Universe-themed area in any amusement park in the U.S. New attractions and reimagined classics bring your favorite superheroes and villains to life.

New rides include:

• CYBORG™ Cyber Revolution – A gravity-defying, multidimensional spin ride.
• SHAZAM!™ Tower of Eternity – A family-friendly drop tower packed with thrills.
• METROPOLIS™ Transit Authority – A scenic monorail with panoramic views of the park.
• Revamped favorites like POISON IVY™ Toxic Spin return with updated themes and added excitement.

SAN ANTONIO ZOO OPENS GORILLA HABITATS AND SPECIAL VENUE (December 2025)
Opening in late 2025, Congo Falls is an all-new realm to the San Antonio Zoo. The main habitat is one of the largest gorilla habitats in the United States with a troop of seven Western lowland Gorillas. This habitat features the largest tower for the Troop to view San Antonio at sixty feet tall.  Also opening in 2025 is the Ralston Events Center. A special event venue for up to 600 people. One of the largest event centers of its kind in San Antonio. This center features views of gorillas and lions, along with a unique view of San Antonio

RESCUE JR. OPENS AT SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO (2025)
SeaWorld San Antonio has unveiled Rescue Jr., an all-new, immersive adventure zone designed especially for young explorers. This vibrant area brings the park’s animal rescue and conservation efforts to life through interactive play, thrilling rides, and educational experiences, including:

• Beach Rescue Racer: A 1,000-foot roller coaster with beach jeep-themed cars.
• Ocean Quest Express: A train ride that takes children on a sea rescue mission, complete with an engaging “I Spy” game to spot hidden sea life.
• Seabird Swing: A soaring swing ride that simulates the flight of seabirds.
• Tide Pool Tumble: A seaside-themed ride that mimics the ebb and flow of ocean tides.
• Ocean Rescue Carousel: A classic carousel reimagined with rescue-themed animals.

Beyond the rides, Rescue Jr. features vibrant water play areas and interactive exhibits that educate children about marine animal rescue, rehabilitation, and conservation.

It’s a perfect blend of fun and learning, aiming to inspire the next generation of animal advocates.

SAN ANTONIO ZOO OPENS LARGEST HABITAT AND LUXURIOUS LODGE (Oct 2024)
The San Antonio Zoo opened the largest habitat in the zoo history in October, the Naylor Savanna which doubles the space for giraffes and rhinos and triples the space for zebras, ostriches, sitatunga, and more. The all-new giraffe barn features multiple individual giraffe rooms, a large family room, a VIP encounter space, and floor to ceiling viewing windows, enhancing the visitor experience. In addition, inside the Naylor Savanna, the San Antonio Zoo created the Spekboom Lodge, a luxurious retreat offering a once-in-a-lifetime overnight experience. Perched within this vibrant landscape, the lodge provides guests with breathtaking views and intimate wildlife encounters, including exclusive interactions with the majestic giraffes. With accommodation for four and exceptional amenities, Spekboom Lodge invites guests to immerse themselves in the wonders of the wild, combining comfort and adventure.

SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO OPENS WORLD’S FIRST LAUCHED FLUME COASTER (Spring 2024)
The all-new thrill ride Catapult Falls is North America’s only vertical lift. Eleven boats, each with eight riders, catapult through the launch at speeds of 30 feet per second, allowing riders to feel the rush of a coaster while experiencing the rocking and swaying of riding on a track of water that kicks up waves as it moves. Once at the peak of the ride, guests will experience the world’s steepest drop in a flume attraction, angled at a staggering 53 degrees, the chute plummets riders into a watery splashdown at over 37 miles per hour.

NEW HIDDEN WONDERS TOUR AT NATURAL BRIDGE CAVERN (May 2023)
The Hidden Wonders Tour experience at Natural Bridge Caverns offers state-of-the-art lighting, a sound and light show, and expansion into never before toured areas of the Hidden Cavern. In addition to new lighting, guests can also expect a 1,100-foot-long expansion of the public passageways through the cave and will be able to tour through an area that was only previously accessible by cavers. Exiting the Hidden Wonders tour will also be a one-of-a-kind experience as guests effortlessly ride from underground to the surface on the 700-foot long BAT (Belt Assisted Transport through a newly constructed exit tunnel), the BAT is the world’s first conveyor system ride out of a cavern.

NEW CONCERT HALL OPENS IN HISTORIC STABLES AT PEARL (January 2024)
Pearl transformed a nearly 130-year-old building that once housed brewery draft horses into a new live music venue, Stable Hall. The facility hosting about 1,000 concertgoers showcases national touring artists as well as regional talent from Texas, Mexico and the Americana Music Triangle – encompassing the area between Nashville, Memphis and New Orleans – with an emphasis on local talent. The venue features a draped jewel-box stage, with floor and curved balcony seating, wooden floors, hand-painted murals and a restored wood ceiling, as well as state-of-the-art acoustics and lighting. Bars and pre-function areas surround the performance hall.

Hotels

PERLEN HOUSE HOTEL BREWING AT PEARL (2027) 
The new high-design, all-suite boutique hotel, Perlen House, is slated to open in 2027 in San Antonio’s historic Pearl district. Offering a more attainable access point to the highly desirable Pearl, it will be located along the River Walk Museum Reach. The nine-story, 166-room property will serve as a riverside respite, featuring spacious suites, a full-service lobby bar, meeting and event spaces, a pool deck, and public gathering areas, all within walking distance of Pearl’s acclaimed restaurants, boutiques, and cultural attractions. Developed by Oxbow Development Group, Perlen House is part of Pearl’s major expansion and will offer visitors another stylish option for experiencing one of San Antonio’s most vibrant culinary and cultural hubs.

MORGAN’S HOTEL BREAKS GROUND, EXPANDING ITS MISSION WITH ULTRA-ACCOMMODATING™ HOTEL (FALL 2026)
Morgan’s—the umbrella organization supporting five Ultra-Accessible™, fully inclusive entities—has just announced the groundbreaking of its latest venture: Morgan’s Hotel™. Located at 18211 Wurzbach Parkway in San Antonio, near the renowned Morgan’s Wonderland Ultra-Accessible theme park, this new hotel aims to transform the hospitality industry with its Ultra-Accommodating™ approach. By combining intentional design, advanced technology, and a highly responsive staff, the hotel goes beyond standard ADA requirements to deliver a thoughtful, personalized experience for guests of all ages and abilities. Founded by Gordon Hartman, Morgan’s Hotel™ will feature more than 90 spacious, accessible rooms, digital room keys, voice-activated controls, and an AI-powered concierge that tailors each stay to individual needs. Additional luxury-level amenities include a rooftop lounge, a scenic restaurant platform, a fitness center, and an outdoor pool. With private entrances, extra-wide hallways, and sound-absorbing décor, every detail supports comfort and inclusivity. All net proceeds will benefit the nonprofit Morgan’s, and a ribbon-cutting ceremony is planned upon the hotel's completion in Fall 2026.

RESIDENCE INN BY MARRIOTT SAN ANTONIO DOWNTOWN (June 2026) - Located next to historic Main Plaza, this new hotel will bring 171 new rooms to the heart of the Alamo City.

AZTEC HOTEL, MARRIOTT TRIBUTE PORTFOLIO (December 2026) – Half a block from the River Walk, visitors can find this new upscale property offering 77 rooms above the historic Aztec Theatre.

NEW BOUTIQUE HOTEL THE MONARCH SAN ANTONIO COMING AT HEMISFAIR (March 2026)
The new 200-room, 17-story boutique hotel located at Hemisfair has officially been named The Monarch San Antonio, in reference to the Monarch butterfly that migrates through the San Antonio region each winter. The hotel is designed to be a convergence point for visitors and locals alike, drawing people together through enlivened interiors that reflect the journey of the butterfly. In addition to luxury guest rooms, the hotel features a modern full-service spa, a terrace pool, five food and beverage concepts with indoor and outdoor service, including a rooftop restaurant and bar and a basement speakeasy, as well as a garden area, fitness center and approximately 10,000 square feet of meeting and event space. The Monarch marks the exciting debut of Curio Collection by Hilton in San Antonio.

MOKARA HOTEL & SPA ANNOUNCES A NEW CHAPTER IN TIMELESS TRANQUILITY (October 2025)
Guests are invited to experience the evolution of modern luxury this Fall as Mokara unveils a full revitalization of the 99-room boutique hotel on the River Walk. This August, the Forbes Travel Guide Four-Star Mokara Hotel & Spa  began a three-month comprehensive reimagination of the award-winning retreat’s guest rooms & suites. More than just a place to stay, the new Mokara is a serene sanctuary for the modern-day traveler. Offering luxurious repose along the iconic River Walk, Mokara Hotel & Spa has long been celebrated for its rejuvenating spa, exceptional service, fine dining, award-winning spa and signature Texas hospitality. A favorite amongst discerning travelers seeking a wellness-forward escape in the heart of San Antonio’s cultural vibrancy, the comprehensive room renovation blends modern sophistication with wellness-focused additions. Inspired by the building’s rich heritage as a saddle factory at the turn of the 20th Century, each guest room and suite at Mokara Hotel & Spa features hand-stitched leather decor and furniture, horsehair-like patterned wallpaper flowing through the hallways into serene guest spaces, handcrafted woods, and a neutral color palette complemented by alabaster and herringbone. The guest rooms showcase featured works by Dallas-based artist Lindsey Myers, who specializes in abstract and impressionistic fine art, utilizing colors and painting in gouache, oil, acrylic, and more to bring her pieces to life. Each room salso include new free-standing bathtubs that allow for immersive rejuvenation, including a signature Bathtub Butler program where guests can have a personal butler draw their bath or provide additional desired bath items like therapeutic bath crystals between 7 a.m. and 10 p.m., and new faucets and vanities that invite guests to wash away the day and indulge in unparalleled comfort and relaxation. Images are here.

GUNTER HOTEL RENOVATIONS (2025)  
The Gunter Hotel — which opened in 1837 at 205 E. Houston St. — is undergoing major interior and exterior renovations with new restaurant concepts. At the end of the project, the hotel will join Marriott International's Tribute line of boutique properties. Photos.

KIMPTON HOTELS DEBUTS FIRST SAN ANTONIO PROPERTY (Aug. 2024)
Located in Downtown San Antonio at the intersection of the vibrant La Villita and Southtown neighborhoods, the 347-room Kimpton Santo is part new-build and part adaptive reuse of an 1850s-original schoolhouse. The property’s juxtaposition of the historic and the modern embraces the city’s spirit of authenticity and the neighborhood’s creative energy. The Kimpton Santo features a 10-story tower housing a modern and airy lobby, luxurious guest rooms and a rooftop pool and lounge with views overlooking downtown and the neighboring greenspace. Two adjacent historic buildings underwent careful adaptive reuse to become a high-end restaurant, lively lobby bar and eight one-of-a-kind hotel suites. Bridging the historic buildings, the courtyard and its natural foliage become an unmatched outdoor entertainment and event venue for hotel guests and the local community. In addition to the courtyard, the hotel features more than 10,000 square feet of flexible meeting and event space, inclusive of a 5,000-square-foot ballroom. As is true with all Kimpton properties, the hotel features beloved perks such as morning coffee and tea service, evening social hour, “Forgot It? We’ve Got it!” amenity program, 24-hour fitness center, in-room yoga mats, complimentary bicycle rentals and a friendly no-fee pet policy. Photos.

LUXURY INTERCONTINENTAL HOTEL CHECKS INTO RIVER WALK (Aug. 2024)
Nestled in the heart of Texas' vibrant cityscape, the Intercontinental Hotel San Antonio offers an unparalleled blend of luxury and Southern charm. This sophisticated retreat features nearly 400 elegantly appointed rooms and suites, world-class dining options, and a wealth of amenities, including a serene outdoor pool and a state-of-the-art fitness center. With its impeccable service and attention to detail, the Intercontinental Hotel San Antonio promises an exceptional experience for both leisure and business travelers seeking a refined and comfortable stay.

NEW PLAZA SAN ANTONIO HOTEL & SPA DEBUTS CITY’S FIRST AUTOGRAPH COLLECTION PROPERTY (January 2024)
Plaza San Antonio Hotel & Spa – San Antonio’s first Autograph Collection Hotel debuted January 2024. The new luxury hotel at the corner of South Alamo Street and East Cesar Chavez Blvd features 253 oversized guest rooms, two restaurants & bars, expansive meeting space, and repurposed 19th century historic buildings that are home to a day spa and a one-of-a-kind bungalow suite.

CANOPY BY HILTON MAKES RIVER WALK DEBUT (April 2021)
Adding to San Antonio’s repertoire of exceptional hotels, Canopy by Hilton made its River Walk debut in March 2021. The hotel integrates the Civil War-era Alamo Fish Market building into its 20-story design. Incorporating the building into the hotel is not only an integral element of the authenticity of the Canopy brand, but also maintains an important historic element to the corridor. Canopy San Antonio River Walk features 1,102 square feet of meeting space, 195 rooms and a restaurant with an outdoor terrace overlooking the River Walk.

THOMPSON HOTEL BRINGS LUXURY DEVELOPMENT TO RIVER WALK ARTS DISTRICT (Feb. 2021)
Thompson San Antonio Hotel and The Arts Residences, a $116 million mixed-use hotel-condominium tower on the San Antonio River Walk brings luxury living and hotel accommodations to the downtown area. The 20-story 337,000-plus-square-foot mixed-use development is across the River Walk from the esteemed Tobin Center for the Performing Arts. This 162-room Thompson Hotel is one of a collection of design-forward, boutique lifestyle hotels and resorts. It features amenities including a high-end restaurant, 20^th floor rooftop bar with panoramic views of downtown, a 5,000 square-foot pool deck with pool bar on the fourth floor, a fitness center, spa, valet parking and 24-hour concierge and in-room dining services.

Culinary

CHEF JOHNNY HERNANDEZ TO OPEN THREE NEW RESTAURANTS AT LA VILLITA (2027-2028)
Chef Johnny Hernandez is working closely with local chefs to create a special, culinary-focused tribute to the city’s heritage with the opening of three restaurants from 2027 through 2028. All three will be located at Maverick Plaza in La Villita Historic Arts Village. The development will celebrate San Antonio’s rich and diverse food traditions and highlight the city’s status as a UNESCO Creative City of Gastronomy, a designation received in 2017. It will also honor the history and architecture of La Villita, San Antonio’s first neighborhood.

Anchoring Maverick Plaza will be a new 5,000-square-foot, norteña-style, borderlands-focused Mexican restaurant designed to draw visitors into the area from multiple directions. The second restaurant, set in the historic Faville House, will feature an Alsatian theme, paying tribute to the French and German influences brought by Alsatian settlers who began arriving in Texas in 1843 and established Castroville and other nearby communities during the 1840s. Built circa1855, the Faville House is also expected to include a proposed addition inspired by the small Victorian-era residences found within La Villita, which stands adjacent to the San Antonio River Walk.

A third restaurant, expected to open by 2028, is planned to feature Texas barbecue, paying homage to Tejano ranch and vaquero cooking traditions, as well as the distinctive old-school barbecue culture found across the state.

Together, the three concepts will reflect the Mexican, Alsatian (French and German) and Texan influences that have shaped San Antonio’s culinary identity while bringing new energy to one of the city’s most historic gathering places.

NEW FOOD HALL PLANNED FOR LA VILLITA ASSEMBLY HALL (2027) 
A new food hall and restaurant destination is planned for the historic La Villita Assembly Hall, with construction potentially completed by the end of 2027. Designed to better connect La Villita with the San Antonio River Walk, the project will transform the building’s upper level into a food hall featuring eight to 10 locally focused vendors, while the lower level will become a standalone restaurant. Plans also include a new River Walk-level plaza, an outdoor bar, children’s play areas and improved pedestrian access from Villita Street, with stairs and an elevator connecting the development’s different levels. Onset Hospitality is seeking a diverse mix of San Antonio restaurants and eateries, with possible offerings ranging from barbecue and burgers to salads and smoothies. 

NEW ITALIAN STEAKHOUSE ROSSO OPENS AT PEARL (2027) 
Acclaimed chefs and longtime friends Rico Torres, Gabe Erales and André Natera will open Rosso, an Italian steakhouse at Pearl, in early 2027. The restaurant is the first concept from the chefs’ newly formed La Unión Hospitality group and pays tribute to the nostalgic Italian-American restaurants they have loved since childhood. Familiar yet elegant, Rosso will spotlight authentic pasta dishes, showpiece steaks and shareable steakhouse sides with Italian influences, all served with a refined but approachable sense of hospitality. Classics such as Pasta Bolognese and Linguine alle Vongole will be served alongside impressive cuts of steak and generously portioned sides designed for the table. The restaurant will be suited for a range of occasions, from a post-work aperitivo or casual weeknight dinner at the bar to celebratory dining. Located at 306 Pearl Parkway, in the old Cured space, Rosso will feature architecture and interiors by Gensler and will set the tone for La Unión Hospitality’s focus on quality, warmth, elegance and genuine service.

BLUDORN HOSPITALITY GROUP TO OPEN NEW RESTAURANT AT PEARL (Fall 2026) 
Acclaimed chef Aaron Bludorn and partners Victoria Pappas Bludorn and Cherif Mbodji will bring Bludorn Hospitality Group to San Antonio with a new restaurant opening at Pearl in fall 2026. Located in the historic 19th-century Boehler’s Liberty Saloon building, the project will mark the group’s sixth restaurant and its first concept outside the greater Houston area. Additional details, including the restaurant’s name, menu and design, will be announced in the coming months. 

MEXICO CEATY OFFERS EATERIES AND ACTIVATIONS DOWNTOWN SA (April 2026)
Local favorite Chef Jason Dady has opened his 7^th dining concept, Mexico Ceaty in San Antonio. This immersive dining, entertainment and shopping experience honors the culinary history and culture of both Mexico and San Antonio. Located inside the Shops at Rivercenter on San Antonio’s famous River Walk, the 21,000-square-foot destination space overhauls the existing food court, offering a vibrant array of eateries, a panaderia-inspired coffee shop, a stage for live music and art activations, a marketplace, and more. The four eateries includes:

• Tres Arcos: An eclectic full-service restaurant focusing on the flavor, flair and favorites of Tex-Mex cuisine
• Dos Cantinas: A 300-seat bar with two “Sunken Garden” sitting areas and elevated lofts, offering a lively atmosphere with margaritas, tequila cocktails and an elaborate menu
• El Ultimo: A speakeasy-style agave tasting room showcasing artisanal mezcals and aged tequilas
• Dulce Aroma: A panaderia café specializing in Mexican pastries, fresh churros and breakfast tacos in a casual environment
  Mexico Ceaty

NEW RESTAURANT ESENCIA OPENS AT THE ST. ANTHONY (January 2026)
James Beard-nominated Chef Leo Davila opens his new restaurant Esencia at the St. Anthony, A Luxury Collection Hotel in early 2026. Esencia reflects the culinary spirit of modern-day San Antonio – diverse, dynamic and deeply rooted in history, creating an experience that feels unmistakably local, yet globally inspired. The approach blends the flavors and traditions of Spanish, Mexican and Asian cultures – all rooted in Chef Leo’s Chinese and Mexican heritage – with a New American sensibility celebrating innovation, local ingredients and the art of cultural storytelling through cuisine. Look for specialties such as Carne Asada Frites served with Wagyu ribeye, potato pave, avocado salad, Asian chimichurri and heirloom corn tortillas; a reimagined Arroz con Pollo with cornish hen ballotine, mole amarillo, huitlacoche and squash fried rice, wok fried vegetable medley and miso aioli; and the Duck & Flower, an Asian-spiced duck breast with a hibiscus and Texas pecan mole. Esencia’s beverage program showcases a dynamic mix of Asian spirits, tequilas and mezcals, Texas whiskeys, beers and an extensive selection of wines. Esencia's interior design is a reflection of San Antonio's deep historical roots and its vibrant, multifaceted culture, mirroring the restaurant's culinary philosophy.

JUE LET (NOVEMBER 2025)
Jue Let is a forthcoming cocktail bar at the Pearl from James Beard–nominated chef Jennifer Hwa Dobbertin (Best Quality Daughter), taking over the former Blue Box space at 312 Pearl Pkwy. The concept honors Cantonese chef Jue Let—the private cook who helped shape James Beard’s palate—and will spotlight inventive cocktails alongside light, cocktail-friendly bites, all in a Lake|Flato–designed space.

NICOSI (June 2024)
Nicosi is a 20-seat dessert tasting room led by award-winning Chef Tavel Bristol-Joseph at Pullman Market, at the Pearl. The expert team at Nicosi lean into the format of a traditional tasting experience while examining the role that acid, umami, bitter and sweet play in the perception of desserts. To ensure complete immersion in the experience, Nicosi has a no phone policy, helping guests to connect with each other and the culinary team.

ROCA & MARTILLO RESTAURANT DEBUTS AT THE ROCK AT LA CANTERA (June 2024)
The latest adventure from the Jason Dady Restaurant Group brings a Tuscan-Italian dining experience to the San Antonio Spurs performance campus known at “The Rock.” Roca & Martillo, translated as “rock and hammer,” is the newest addition to the campus and is an ode to the Spurs mantra of “pounding the rock” as a sports team.  Open for lunch and dinner daily, Roca & Martillo’s offerings will feature modern American flavors and Tuscan influences, with added touches of smokiness as an homage to South Texas. From house-made pasta to elaborate entrees, each dish reflects Chef Dady’s dedication to using premium fresh ingredients and showcasing his culinary artistry. The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining options and a rooftop patio experience with views of the Spurs La Cantera campus and the La Cantera neighborhood and is available for private event bookings.

PULLMAN MARKET OPENS AT PEARL (April 2024)
Opened in Spring 2024, Pullman Market is Texas’ answer to Eataly. Celebrating local produce, Pullman Market is a specialty grocery store, with five quick eateries (Burgers by the Butcher, Ceviche and Tacos, Sandwich shop, Ice Cream and Coffee) and four distinct restaurants (Nicosi, Isidore, Fife and Farro, Mezquite) and a bar, Mezcaleria. Pullman Market is located at the Pearl. 

CREAMERY DISTRICT (January 2024)
Nestled in the historic Tobin Hill area in San Antonio, the Creamery District offers a vibrant blend of culinary and social experiences. It is an adaptive reuse location built in 1933, The Creamery was home to a Bordens facility, operating as the largest distributor of fluid milk in the United States at the time. Now The Creamery is a mixed-use complex featuring diverse dining options, from a European-style cafe called Creme, to Lunatic, a rooftop lounge, with stunning views. Visitors can enjoy a lively atmosphere, complete with craft cocktails at Ameila or Easy Baby. The Creamery is a prime destination for both locals and tourists. Whether you're seeking a casual meal or an upscale night out, The Creamery has something to suit every taste. This dynamic social hub features Crème Coffee & Social, Amelia Social Lounge, Easy Baby Underground, Lunatique Rooftop Garden, Chika Omakase (recognized by the James Beard Foundation), Tribute Sports Bar, and Costa Pacifica Margarita Garden. This historically significant redevelopment continues to evolve, with ongoing renovations and future expansions.

MAKE READY MARKET OPEN (2024)
Nestled between Broadway and the San Antonio River, a 11,000-sq.-ft. food hall named Make Ready Market is open. The food hall features different restaurant concepts such as Venezuelan arepas at Four Brothers, burgers at Eet-Up, grilled seafood and tacos at Pescado Bravo or Thai fried chicken at Thai Bird. Foodies can also enjoy Mexican gelatos at Casa Morgana and juices and smoothies at Buje Bev. Co or cocktails at Garaje Cantina. Shoppers can also enjoy Fair Goods shop which sells clothing, jewelry and vintage deco and pop-up markets every second and fourth Fridays. A calendar of events is available on the website.

BOMBAY BICYCLE CLUB AT HEMISFAIR (October 2023)
The second location in San Antonio is now open at Yanaguana Garden inside the Hemisfair District, utilizing the historic Espinoza House. This addition builds on the legacy of the original Bombay that celebrated 50 years in business in 2023. Guests can expect the same dedication to quality ingredients and warm hospitality that have defined the restaurant's success. The Bombay team including Leighton who has owned the establishment since 1988, his daughter Satchie Seidlits, and Paula Sullivan, of Carmen’s de la Calle, worked with a talented team to create a space that pays homage to the original building, but has its own distinct character and feel.

ROSARIO’S MEXICAN RESTAURANT OPENS NEW LOCATION (February 2023)
Rosario’s Comida Mex opened its new location on St. Mary’s Street on February 10, 2023. Since 1992, Rosario’s has served as an anchor for the historic Southtown/King William area. The new location, still located Southtown, offers a rooftop terrace and bar and a bigger restaurant space (25,000-sq.-ft.). Additionally, Rosario’s commissioned internationally renowned street artist INTI for a 24x69-foot mural on the property to reflect Rosario’s owner Lisa Wong’s rich family story. Rosario’s food style combines traditional south-of-the-border dishes with authentic house specialties, all prepared with a contemporary twist.

Major Projects & Neighborhoods

SAN ANTONIO INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT SOARS TO NEW HEIGHTS (2025-2028)
San Antonio International Airport (SAT) is undergoing a significant transformation to accommodate growing passenger demand and enhance traveler experience. A major component of this expansion is the construction of Terminal C, which will add 18 new gates, expanded culinary offerings, and modern amenities, making it larger than the current Terminals A and B combined. In 2026, a new ground transportation center will open in Terminal A and in late 2024, an upgraded parking experience was added to streamline access and improve convenience for travelers.

MAIN PLAZA IMPROVEMENT PROJECT (2028)
San Antonio’s historic Main Plaza is set for a major improvement project enhancing one of the Alamo city’s most iconic gathering spaces. The updates will focus on improved accessibility, expanded green space, enhanced gathering areas, new food and beverage options, and dynamic interpretive storytelling that brings the Plaza’s nearly 300-year history to life. A collaborative effort between the City of San Antonio and Main Plaza Conservancy, the project blends public investment with philanthropic support and is scheduled to begin construction in summer 2027—ensuring this cultural heart of the city remains vibrant, welcoming, and accessible for both residents and visitors.

BRACKENRIDGE PARK RESTORATION (SPRING 2026)
The Brackenridge Conservancy is working on a two-phase effort to improve infrastructure, natural areas, and water quality along the two-mile stretch of the San Antonio River that runs through the park. This will restore historic features and buildings, improve river flow, restore and interpret the 1776 Spanish dam and acequia, restore and interpret the 1878 Water Works Pumphouse, rebuild the 1930’s era WPA river walls, and clean natural areas to improve walkability with new and improved trails.

Phase 1:

• Lambert Beach Zone (completion Spring 2024)
• Repair and stabilize river side of pumphouse
• Repair and rebuild Lambert Beach walls and stairs
• Rebuild historic staircase on NE side of Lambert Beach
• Grading and earthwork improvements
• Address trees impacting cultural resources

Phase 2:

• Acequia and Upper Labor Zone (completion Spring 2026)
• Restore upper labor lily pond
• Uncover and stabilize upper labor dam
• Dredge and repair historic acequia
• Rehabilitate historic pumphouse
• Improve pedestrian circulation
• Reveal historic pumphouse arches
• Reduce unproductive hardscape
• Re-water the historic raceway
• Provide native trees and landscaping
• Grading and earthwork stabilization
• Utilities consolidation
• Interpret historic features
• Provide connection to future Spirit Reach Trail

THE ALAMO PLAN (Spring 2028)
In the heart of San Antonio, Texas, lies a site of immense historical significance – The Alamo. Stretching back over three centuries, its walls echo tales of determination, sacrifice, and freedom. Today, an ambitious project, the $550 million Alamo Plan, aims to honor its legacy and ensure that future generations understand its pivotal role in history. The Alamo Plan includes:

• Preserving the delicate 300-year-old Alamo Church and Long Barrack, the last remaining structures from the original Spanish Mission.
• Reclaiming the 1836 Battle of the Alamo footprint, including the closure of city streets to foster a pedestrian-friendly environment so visitors can better visualize the site’s scope.
• Building a world-class Visitor Center and Museum, an adaptive re-use of the historic Crockett and Woolworth Buildings directly across from the Alamo Church. The galleries will tell the Alamo’s full 300-year history, from its origins as a Spanish mission to its pivotal role in the Texas Revolution and beyond. The facility, scheduled to open in 2027, will include a 4D theater, gift shop, café, boardroom, and rooftop events space for up to 700 people.
• Building the Texas Cavaliers Education Center, an adaptive re-use of historic Alamo Hall, which once housed an original city fire station. The Education Center, scheduled to open in 2025, will include a Lecture Hall and Orientation Theater, a STEAM Lab, an Early Learners Hub, and a Distance Learning Lab. It is expected to serve more than 250,000 school-aged children a year.
• Opening of the Alamo Exhibit at the Ralston Family Collections Center in March 2023. The Alamo Exhibit includes more than 500 artifacts, many on display for the first time. It is home to the Phil Collins Texana Collection of artifacts donated by the British rock star.
• Launch of “Surrounded! The Alamo Augmented Experience” in September 2024. Through handheld tablets, the experience allows visitors to turn back time and visualize six key periods in Alamo history.
• Once the Alamo Plan is complete in spring 2028, the Alamo expects to draw more than 2.5 million visitors every year, with a more than $11 billion economic impact over the initial five years of construction and operation.

NEW ADDITIONS TO PEARL
Long hailed as the home of Pearl Beer, this former brewery from the 1800s has been reimagined into a bustling neighborhood along the San Antonio River Walk. Its mix of reuse and new developments is home to Hotel Emma, the Culinary Institute of America’s San Antonio campus, local boutiques, chef-driven restaurants and a farmers market on Saturday and Sunday. New offerings include The Bottling Department, a food hall featuring five restaurant concepts and a bar area from top local chefs and restauranteurs, Hiatus Spa, as well as new events, culinary celebrations and exciting developments at the Pearl Farmers Market.

HEMISFAIR GETS A FRESH LOOK  
A three-phase renovation project is enhancing the downtown experience by bringing additional open parkland, activities, restaurants and more to Hemisfair, the home of the 1968 World’s Fair. Yanaguana Garden, the first phase of the project, features a 4.1-acre play environment designed for all ages and abilities, a splash pad and eateries including Paleteria San Antonio, Dough Pizzeria Napoletana, Commonwealth Coffeehouse, Re:Rooted 210, Lick Honest Ice Creams, Box Street All Day, and the nearby ’68 Apartments. Hemisfair reached a milestone at the end of 2022, welcoming four million visitors since its opening in 2015. As the redevelopment moves forward, visitors will see the addition of new buildings and renovations of historic structures including retail shops, workforce housing, a hotel, cultural and educational amenities, and additional restaurants.

• In 2023, two late nineteenth-century homes were renovated to welcome Kunstler Tap and Brat-Haus and Bombay Bicycle Club.
• In March 2023, a new toddler play area made a splash on the shore of the historic Acequia Madre, adjacent to the Bank of America Promenade. It includes five climbable vignettes that mimic a garden.
• In the fall 2023, Hemisfair launched “Civic Park,” an addition of five acres of public parkland which includes a shared promenade, the Springs (a five-pooled water feature), and the Great Lawn, to welcome large events up to 15,000 people.
• Hemisfair Civic Park Phase 2 Complete – March 7, 2025. Includes four new spaces:
  • Source Plaza (a welcoming downtown gateway)
  • The Promenade (shaded pedestrian walkway connecting downtown to Southtown)
  • The Zócalo (flexible terrace with seating, decorative tilework, and a water feature inspired by the region’s acequias)
  • The Stage (an addition to the north end of the Great Lawn which provides a space for concerts and larger-scale events)

BROADWAY CULTURAL CORRIDOR
Just north of downtown, Broadway Street connects many of San Antonio’s significant cultural attractions including the San Antonio Museum of Art, The DoSeum, Brackenridge Park, Witte Museum, San Antonio Zoo, Japanese Tea Gardens, San Antonio Botanical Garden and the McNay Art Museum. In addition, revitalization is occurring rapidly on this stretch of Broadway from just north of downtown to Brackenridge Park, and the city is planning a multi-million project to transform a stretch of street into a landscaped boulevard that is bike and pedestrian-friendly. In addition to outstanding cultural institutions, visitors will find local favorites such as the Shops at Broadway News, a collection of mobile retailers selling a variety of unique items, JoyRide Cycling Studio and Brown Coffee Co., which was noted by Food Network host Alton Brown as having the “best cup of coffee in the world” along the corridor.

SOUTHTOWN’S EMERGENCE
At the southern tip of historic downtown lies Southtown, an eclectic arts district set apart by its intermingling of 1800s German architecture, repurposed warehouses, art galleries and now an alluring culinary scene. Longtime dining favorites such as Taco Haven and the Guenther House are sidling up next to newer eateries such as Southtown Pizzeria, an artisan pizzeria influenced by the owners’ time living in an old farmhouse near Florence, and Battalion, a creation from restaurateur Andrew Goodman that is housed inside a renovated firehouse offering a menu of indulgent Italian dishes. Another popular Southtown stop is the Liberty Bar, a San Antonio favorite with a made-from-scratch menu that is housed in a hot pink former convent.

Media information, photos and video: media.visitsanantonio.com

About Visit San Antonio:

Visit San Antonio is a 501(c)6, and serves as the sales and marketing arm of San Antonio as a leading leisure and meetings destination. San Antonio welcomes 41 million visitors annually. Hospitality is one of the top five industries in the city, contributing $15.2 billion into the local economy and employing more than 140,000. More information about Visit San Antonio can be found at VisitSanAntonio.com.