Exploring San Antonio: A Vibrant City with a Little Something for Everyone
After a long drive, we finally made it to San Antonio, and I couldn’t help but feel excited to be back in a big city once again. San Antonio is a vibrant blend of culture, history, and modern touches, offering something for everyone, whether you’re traveling solo, with family, or with friends. We only had four days in this lively city, but we made sure to fill every moment with fun, adventure, and learning.
Our first day in the city was perfect. I managed to take some time for myself and joined a free yoga class held outside in the heart of the city. The night was beautiful, and I felt refreshed as I practiced amidst the hustle and bustle of downtown. It was a perfect way to unwind and get into the spirit othis energetic city.
Here are some of the highlights from our trip that you won’t want to miss if you’re planning your own San Antonio adventure:
Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair
This is a must-see spot for families! Yanaguana Garden is a unique playground located in the Hemisfair park, and it’s full of modern sculptures that kids can climb on. The playground is a fun, interactive space for children, and the art installations make for great photo opportunities. It's the perfect spot to let the kids burn off some energy while you enjoy the surrounding greenery.
Stinson Airport and the Hike and Bike Trail
If you have any little ones who are fascinated by airplanes, Stinson Airport is a fun place to visit. The airport's charming cafe has a window-side seating area where you can watch planes take off and land up close. It’s a great spot for breakfast or a snack while soaking in the aviation sights.
Stinson Airport holds an important place in aviation history. Originally opened in 1915 as Stinson Municipal Airport, it was named after the Stinson sisters, a pioneering family in aviation. The sisters—Marion and Edna Stinson—were among the first women to hold commercial pilot licenses in the United States. Their contributions to aviation were instrumental in shaping the early years of civilian air travel.
During World War II, Stinson Airport was used for military purposes. It served as a base for training pilots and other aviation personnel, and its strategic location made it an important site for the U.S. Army Air Corps. The airport’s rich history is a testament to the important role it played in both civilian and military aviation during the 20th century.
Just across the street from the airport, you'll find a beautiful walking trail called the Mission Reach Trail. This is a paved, concrete path that runs through lush forest areas, providing shade from the summer sun and a peaceful environment for a stroll or bike ride. The trail stretches for over 15 miles and is part of the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, offering stunning views of local wildlife and the San Antonio River. It was the perfect way to walk off some pancakes, get some fresh air, and burn off some energy after a morning of exploring.
Witte Museum
One afternoon, the boys and I visited the Witte Museum, and it did not disappoint! This museum is perfect for kids and adults alike, with exhibits ranging from dinosaur skeletons to outdoor displays of Texas wildlife. The hands-on exhibits can get busy, especially with field trips from local schools, but we still enjoyed exploring the fascinating dioramas and learning about the animals that live in and around the Texas Hill Country. One of the museum's highlights is its impressive collection of fossils and a great exhibit on the history of Texas.
The Alamo and RiverWalk
Of course, no visit to San Antonio is complete without a stop at the iconic Alamo. We opted not to enter this time (we had visited before, in 2019, pre-kids), but we did make sure to stop for a photo op and talk to the boys about the significance of the building. The Battle of the Alamo in 1836 was a pivotal moment in the Texas Revolution, where a small group of Texan defenders held off a much larger Mexican army before ultimately falling. The battle became a symbol of resistance and is an integral part of Texan history.
Afterward, we made our way to the RiverWalk, which is always a highlight of any trip to San Antonio. Along the river, we stopped at Elsewhere Garden Bar, a super Instagram-worthy spot that’s great for families. The garden bar features a psychedelic slide where the kids can play while the adults relax with a drink or a snack by the water. The boys made a fast friend, and the three of them had a blast on the slide for over an hour. We didn’t mind the fun chaos, but when the mosquitoes started making their appearance, it was time to call it a day.
Final Thoughts
Though our visit was short, it was packed with adventure, discovery, and plenty of family fun. We embraced the city’s culture, history, and modern attractions, making the most of every opportunity to learn and explore. Whether you’re interested in history, nature, or just a good time with family, San Antonio has it all. We’ll definitely be back soon for more fun and exploration!
