Once you’ve had your fill of the city’s superb food and drink scene and finished exploring its cultural hotspots, be sure to dive into some outdoor activities in San Antonio.
There’s some brilliant things to do outside here, whether you’re into scenic day trips, thrill-seeking tours or family-friendly events. Take note of these seven unmissable activities that are popular with both locals and visitors alike.
Best Outdoor Activities In San Antonio
1. Comal River Tubing
What exactly is it? Float along this beautiful spring-fed natural flowing river in your own tube. The water temperature is a steady 70-72 degrees year-round, which makes it refreshing in the Texas summer heat.
How long does it take? Floating the Comal River can range anywhere from 2 to 4 hours depending on your pace.
How much does it cost? Ticket includes round trip shuttle with regular tube – $25. You can upgrade to a tube with a backrest for $30.
2. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
What exactly is it? Meander through 450 acres of rolling hills, creek beds, and magnificent live oak trees. Grab your safari hat, and get ready for an adventure of a lifetime — your very own African Safari, Texas Style!
How long does it take? You can spend all day here!
How much does it cost? $24.50 for an adult and $15.50 for kids under 12.
3. San Antonio River Walk
What exactly is it? The River Walk, or commonly known in its Spanish name ‘Paseo del Rio’, is a San Antonio treasure and the largest urban ecosystem in the nation. Sightseeing, shopping, food, and fun. All on a world-renowned 15-mile urban waterway. There’s so much to do, see, eat, and explore along the river.
How long does it take? Depends on how far you decide to walk! You can easily spend a whole day strolling along the beautiful waterway.
How much does it cost? Free, but make sure to check out all the local stores and restaurants along the way!
4. Six Flags Fiesta Texas
What exactly is it? San Antonio’s biggest, most popular themed attraction, from thrilling coasters, waterpark rides and activities, to shows and rides for the kids. And if you get hungry- you can tuck into some piping hot pizza, spice things up with a delicious Mexican meal, explore some flavourful Asian cuisine, or just go for the classic all-American burger and fries.
How long does it take? People on average spend at least 4 hours.
How much does it cost? $39.99 – For a limited time only, tickets are 50% off, if you book online!
5. Lost Maples State Natural Area
What exactly is it? It’s a rare thing in the San Antonio area to be able to witness the changing of the seasons, but if that’s what you’re looking for, you don’t have to go too far to find it, less than 2 hours northwest of San Antonio. Here you will find an array of wildflowers, steep canyon walls, and the scenic Sabinal River. Some activities include:
- Hiking- Explore over 10 miles of trails, including a loop that takes you along the top of a 2,200-foot cliff.
- Fishing- Wet a hook in the Sabinal River or Can Creek. You do not need a fishing license to fish from shore or pier in a state park or natural area.
- Birding- Explore over 10 miles of trails, including a loop that takes you along the top of a 2,200-foot cliff.
- Camping- Choose from 30 campsites with water and electricity. Or backpack to one of our primitive campsites.
How long does it take? Day trip.
How much does it cost? Adult $6 (13 years or older). There’s no entrance fee for children 12 years and under. Annual passes are also available for all 89 state parks.
6. Lackland Outdoor Adventure Center
What exactly is it? The grounds have over 5K of walking and running trails. Outdoor Recreation also hosts several off-base trips and programs, which includes motorcycle rides, paintballing, skydiving, fishing trips, boogie boarding trips, and Natural Bridge Caverns zip lining and challenge course.
How long does it take? Dependent on the activities taken, most people spend a full day here.
How much does it cost? General admission: $5 Adult & $ 3 for kids 12 and under, which includes admission to the Lackland Air Force Base.
7. Amigo Free Walking Tours
What exactly is it? Marvel at the history of this beautiful city, with a guided walking tour. There are two routes to choose from: The Downtown Tour – discover the historic block where San Antonio began to the crown jewel of its skyline. Or you can opt for The King William District Tour, and be in awe of one of San Antonio’s oldest and most regal neighborhoods. Paid private tours are also available.
How long does it take?
- Downtown Tour: About 1.75-2.25 hours long, covering about 1 mile (1.6km).
- King William District Tour: About 1.5-1.75 hours long, covering about 1 mile (1.6km)
How much does it cost? There’s no set price for the Free Public Tours – you tip whatever you feel is fair at the end.
Have a great adventure. Something tells me if you stay still too long that the bees will start using you as a hive. So I recommend you keep moving along the hiking trail.