If San Antonio is not on your bucket list yet…it’s about to be. The Texas city is a great mix of culture, amazing food, and just the right amount of relaxation. Sure, the River Walk is iconic (and yes, you definitely want to stroll it), but this place has so much more to offer. So let me help you create an itinerary for a little escape—filled with my personal recommendations, insider tips, and the kind of experiences that’ll have you saying, “Why didn’t I come here sooner?!”
This San Antonio weekend getaway has it all: river views, historic missions, table-side guac (because, obviously), brunching at cute spots, biking adventures, boutique shopping, and a little pampering at the spa to wrap it all up. Yep, it checks all the boxes.
Want Quick Details? Here’s a snapshot of a perfect weekend itinerary:
Friday
- Check into the gorgeous Mokara Hotel and Spa
- See the San Antonio River Walk onboard a Go Rio Cruise
- Grab dinner at Boudros
Saturday
- Brunch at Blush
- Explore the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park on an electric BCycle
- Stroll and shop in the Pearl District
- Grab a drink at Sternewirth
- Have dinner at Ladino
Sunday
- Breakfast and pastries at Mi Tierra y Panaderia
- Go to the Alamo
- Have fun at the immersive Hopscotch
- Get lunch at Bombay Bicycle Club
- Walk through the Hemisfair District
- Take in the view from the Tower of Americas
- Finish with the Spa at Mokara and dinner at their Ostra restaurant.
Here’s my video of this itinerary:
Things to Know Before Visiting San Antonio
Best Time to Visit
Fall and spring are typically the best seasons—cooler weather, fewer crowds, and blooming beauty. With that said, I went in the middle of May and they were having a crazy heat wave (about 100 degrees every day), so be prepared. Summer is almost always HOT (like… bring-extra-deodorant hot), and winter is generally mild but festive, especially around the holidays.
Getting Around
Downtown San Antonio is super walkable—so if you’re staying somewhere central, you’re golden. But if you want to give your feet a break, you’ve got options. There are bikes, scooters, buses, and even VIA Link (it’s an on-demand ride service that makes getting around certain neighborhoods super easy and affordable). And of course, there’s always Uber—we used it the most for getting around quickly and comfortably.
Attraction Passes—Totally Worth It!
If you plan on hitting up a few popular spots, grab a CityPASS—it’s a digital pass that saves you money on admission to San Antonio’s top attractions. You get to pick 4 out of 8 major experiences (like museums, tours, and more), and the best part? You don’t have to choose in advance. Just show your QR code at the ones you want to visit. Easy peasy.
There’s also the Go City pass, which works similarly but gives you access to a bigger list of attractions. You can choose a pass that includes anywhere from 2 to 5 spots, depending on how much you want to pack in.
Honestly, if you’re planning to do all the things in San Antonio (and why wouldn’t you?!), grabbing both passes is the way to go for max savings.
Where to Stay
Mokara Hotel & Spa ($$$)
The Mokara is where I stayed, and it is pure luxury. My balcony overlooked the River Walk (where I watched the boats go by for hours), and the whole place just oozes peaceful vibes.
Mokara is actually the only Forbes four-star hotel in San Antonio, and it’s the ultimate wellness escape. The rooftop pool and café have sweeping city views, and the rooms? Think high ceilings, whirlpool tubs, and fancy designer toiletries.
The on-site Ostra restaurant serves up incredible seafood, and the spa—ohhh the spa—is next level. Plus, the location’s perfect. The River Walk is right outside the front door. Check pricing here.
Here are some other great hotel options
Things to Do in San Antonio
Stroll the San Antonio River Walk
San Antonio’s River Walk is a one-of-a-kind, tree-lined urban oasis that winds along the San Antonio River—lined with restaurants, shops, bridges, and historic charm. It’s basically the heartbeat of downtown. Yes, it’s touristy. Yes, it’s beautiful. And YES, you should go.
Most visitors just walk the 2-mile downtown loop, which has plenty to see (and snack on), but the full River Walk actually stretches 15 miles! If you’re up for more exploring, here’s how to go beyond the main drag:
Head North to Museum Reach
This 3-mile stretch is full of scenic pathways, cool public art, and lush landscaping (we’re talkin’ over 70,000 plants!). Along the way, you’ll pass the San Antonio Museum of Art and end up at Pearl—aka a foodie and culture-lover’s dream.
Head South to Mission Reach
Totally different vibe down here—more nature, fewer crowds, and gorgeous trails. The Mission Reach is an 8-mile linear park with 16+ miles of hiking and biking paths (and even a paddling trail!). You’ll find restored ecosystems, beautiful native plants, and public art that leads you to the city’s historic UNESCO-listed Mission sites. It’s quiet, peaceful, and full of wildlife—perfect for birdwatching, biking, or just soaking up the serenity.
➞ Dining Tip: skip the dozens of chain restaurants (like, Bubba Gumps and Hard Rock Cafe) and opt for local gems like Boudro’s , Domingo and Ostra.
GO Rio Cruises Tour
After your stroll along the River Walk, see it all from a different angle. Hop on a Go Rio Cruise for a 35-minute narrated boat ride along the River Walk. These colorful, electric boats give you a totally new perspective—plus, you’ll learn about the city’s rich history, cool architecture, and cultural landmarks (like La Villita and the Briscoe Western Art Museum). It’s the perfect combo of relaxing and educational, and honestly, such a fun way to take in the scenery.
➞ Tips: Get there early to sit in the front or along the sides for the best photo ops. You can purchase tickets online or by stopping by one of their ticket booths along the river walk. But, this is an included attraction on both the CityPASS and the Go City pass, so if you purchased a pass use one of them to save money!
Shop (& Eat) in Historic Market Square
Okay, if you want to feel like you’ve teleported straight into a colorful Mexican mercado, this is your place. Historic Market Square—also known as El Mercado—has been buzzing with life since the 1820s, when it was a produce market and the legendary “Chili Queens” served up bowls of spicy goodness. Today, it’s the largest Mexican marketplace outside of Mexico and still reflects its rich past with colorful papel picado banners fluttering overhead, music playing, and the scent of fresh tortillas wafting through the air.
This three-block outdoor plaza in downtown San Antonio is packed with over 100 locally-owned shops and restaurants—32 in the El Mercado section and 80 in the Farmer’s Market Plaza—making it a must-visit for anyone craving culture, color, and carbs.
We stopped here for some post-lunch shopping after a meal at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería (more on that deliciousness below). Walking into the Market Square shops felt like stepping into a real Mexican market—I was instantly reminded of my time wandering through markets in Oaxaca. From handmade jewelry and embroidered blouses to painted pottery and sugar skulls, the treasures here are endless. And if you’re a foodie (hi, same), you’ll be in heaven—tacos, enchiladas, fresh pastries… yes, please.
View from the Tower of the Americas at Hemisfair
If you want to see San Antonio from a whole new angle—go up! The Tower of the Americas in the Hemisfair District is a 750-foot-tall landmark that was built for the 1968 World’s Fair (which also celebrated the city’s 250th anniversary!). Today, it’s still one of the best ways to get your bearings—and some jaw-dropping views. The glass elevator zips you up to the observation deck, 605 feet off the ground, where you can see the entire city laid out like a tiny model. The River Walk? Looks like a little squiggle from up there!
But don’t rush off—Hemisfair isn’t just about the tower. The whole district is a gorgeous, walkable area filled with green spaces, playgrounds, fountains, public art, and historic homes.
Visit the Japanese Tea Garden
The Japanese Tea Garden is one of San Antonio’s most peaceful (and photogenic!) spots—and believe it or not, it used to be a limestone quarry. Back in 1916, a visionary park commissioner looked at the rocky pit and imagined something magical: a Japanese-style garden with stone bridges, a waterfall, and koi-filled ponds.
Fast forward to today, and that dream is still blooming! The garden is now a lush oasis with winding walkways, a dramatic 60-foot waterfall, and those iconic curving bridges that practically beg for a photo. It’s one of the most photographed places in San Antonio, and once you see it, you’ll get why. And the best part? It’s totally free to visit.
Explore the Pearl
If you’re only making one stop for shopping, food, and a bit of culture, make it the Pearl. This trendy riverfront spot used to be a brewery (cool, right?) but now it’s this gorgeous mix of modern design and historic vibes. You’ll find everything from hip restaurants and indie boutiques to live music and community events.
My favorite? Pullman Market! It’s part market, part food hall, and completely fabulous. You can graze your way through different food stalls, pick up some artisan goodies, or just wander and soak in the delicious energy. And if you’re visiting on the weekend, the Pearl Farmers Market is also a must—think fresh flowers, local honey, and maybe even a warm croissant (because carbs = joy). Bonus: The Culinary Institute of America is right here too, so you know the food scene is next level.
B-Cycle to the Four Missions
Okay, full confession: I was a little nervous about hopping on a bike in the Texas heat. But BCycle’s pedal-assist bikes? Total game changer. They make biking quick and easy as you are cruising down the scenic Mission Reach Trail that connects all four of the missions at San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
We started our ride at Confluence Park (a beauty on its own!), made stops at Mission Concepcion and Mission San Jose, and still had energy to spare, just no time to make it to the other two. But, you could absolutely do all four missions in one go—especially with that e-bike power boost.
The missions are beautifully preserved Spanish Colonial landmarks date back to the early 1700s and are now a UNESCO World Heritage Site (Texas’ only one!). You’ll find them stretched along the San Antonio River and all connected by those lovely trails I just mentioned.
Here’s the perfect order for your bike ride:
- Confluence Park: A great launch point with access to the trail, bike hubs, and even paddling opportunities.
- Mission Concepcion: The oldest unrestored stone church in the U.S. and it still holds regular services. It’s simple, stunning, and steeped in history.
- Mission San Jose: Known as the “Queen of the Missions.” Start here if you’re new to the area—it has a fantastic visitor center and some of the most impressive architecture.
- Mission San Juan: Peaceful and tucked away, this one gives you a real feel for how mission life once was. The surrounding farmland and acequias (irrigation ditches) tell their own story.
- Mission Espada: Small but mighty, with a charming chapel and lovely grounds. Don’t miss the historic aqueduct nearby!
All these missions are connected by trails, so you can walk, run, or cycle between them. And yes, The Alamo is part of this story too (more on that next!).
Visit the Alamo
No trip to San Antonio is complete without paying your respects at The Alamo. You’ve probably seen it in movies or history books, but standing there in person is something else entirely. Originally known as Mission San Antonio de Padua, this iconic site played a major role in the Texas Revolution and is a true symbol of courage and sacrifice.
And if you haven’t been in a while, you’re in for a treat—it’s had some pretty exciting upgrades lately. One of the newest additions is the Ralston Family Collections Center, which opened in 2023. This stunning two-story, 24,000-square-foot space sits just behind the iconic Alamo Church Inside, you’ll find over 10,000 square feet of gallery space filled with more than 500 incredible artifacts—many of them being displayed for the very first time.
One of the highlights? The Phil Collins Collection. Yep, that Phil Collins—the musician also happens to be a passionate historian and donated his priceless Alamo collection to the state of Texas.
Admission to the church and grounds is totally free, but they do ask you to make a reservation. And if you want to check out the Ralston Collections Center, your CityPASS will get you in or reserve on the Alamo website.
Don’t Miss Hopscotch!
This was hands-down one of the most fun things I did in San Antonio. Hopscotch is this huge, 20,000-square-foot immersive art experience that had me smiling from ear to ear. It’s part gallery, part playground, part adult hangout. It’s interactive, it’s weird in the best way, and it’s unlike anything else in town.
My favorite exhibits? The quantum trampoline, laser graffiti, and the dreamy diodic daydream—watch the video to see what I mean:
Oh—and there’s a bar. (Cue the happy dance.) I ordered the Adult Capri Sun called “Future Nostalgia,” which had tequila, passion fruit chamoy, agave, and lime. It tasted like summer in a pouch!
➞ Tip: Bring socks! You’ll need them for a few of the exhibits like the trampoline and the white ball pit. (Don’t worry—they sell them if you forget.)
Places to Eat in San Antonio
Brunch Restaurants
Mi Tierra Cafe Y Panaderia
Okay, let’s start with a classic Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia has been feeding hungry locals and visitors since 1941—and honestly, stepping inside feels like stepping into a Mexican fiesta. It’s colorful and loud in the best way.
They make their chorizo in-house (it’s a family recipe!), and their pastries? Let’s just say it took every ounce of self-control not to order a dozen. We had the Chilaquiles with crispy tortilla strips scrambled with eggs and topped with ranchero sauce and melty cheddar. And the Chorizo Mexicano con Huevo—eggs scrambled with their house-made sausage—was rich, flavorful, and came with breakfast potatoes and warm tortillas.
Even if you’re not up for a full meal, swing by to grab a pastry and soak up the vibrant decor—think papel picado banners, hanging stars, and hand-painted murals. It’s an experience all on its own.
Blush Restaurant & Bakery
Now if you’re craving something a little more modern and Insta-worthy, head to Blush in Southtown. It’s the kind of place where everything—from the lush greenery to the lavender lattes—is picture-perfect, but still feels laid-back.
We grabbed a table on the patio (highly recommended on a sunny morning), and my husband ordered the Crème Brûlée French Toast. I planned to eat light, but let’s be real… I ended up stealing half his plate.
They also have creative savory dishes (hello, King William Benedict with sous vide short rib), plus a cute bakery counter for post-brunch treats.
Lunch Restaurants
Bombay Bicycle Club
Vintage charm, bold wallpaper, and seriously good nachos? Yes, please. Bombay Bicycle Club is located in the historic Espinoza House, and it’s got this relaxed-meets-quirky vibe that’s super welcoming.
The burgers are juicy, the margaritas are strong, and the cherry brownie? Don’t even think about skipping it.
La Panaderia
La Panadería is one of those places you’ll wish you lived next door to. Started by two brothers who used to sell their mom’s homemade bread on the streets of Mexico City, this bakery-café serves up the real deal.
Their Al Pastor Bowl (made with their family recipe) was full of bold, smoky flavor, and the 8-hour oven roasted carnitas torta was next-level good. Plus, their pastry case is filled with delicious Mexican pastries.
Dinner Restaurants
Ladino
Ladino was one of my favorite dinners in San Antonio. This Mediterranean spot serves up fresh pita straight from a wood-fired oven (you’ll smell it before you see it), and the menu is full of bold, exciting flavors.
We ordered the Tirshi dip (butternut squash + harissa + chili crisp = magic) and the Lamb Belly Ribs, which were melt-in-your-mouth tender. If you’re into cocktails, get the Kerido with gin, lavender, and vanilla. Delicious!
Want an after dinner drink? Pop into Sternewirth near Ladino. It’s cozy, classy, and a great way to end the night.
Leche de Tigre
If you’ve never had authentic Peruvian ceviche, this is your moment. Leche de Tigre is part restaurant, part experience—they actually prepare the ceviche bar-style in front of you, using the freshest ingredients and explaining the flavors as they go.
And don’t miss out on the Pisco, a traditional Peruvian grape brandy that’s strong, smooth, and perfect for sipping.
Boudros
Yes, it’s on the Riverwalk. Yes, it’s touristy. But hear me out: Boudro’s is worth it. The table-side guacamole is legendary (they add orange juice!), and the atmosphere—especially on the patio—is downright magical at sunset.
I had the herb crusted fish fillet with a prickly pear margarita and was in heaven. This is a great spot for a romantic dinner or a treat-yourself kind of evening.
Best Quality Daughter
If you’re strolling through The Pearl (which, let’s be honest, you definitely should be), make sure to pop into Best Quality Daughter. This spot is more than just a restaurant—it’s a bold, beautiful love letter to Asian-American cuisine from Chef Jennifer Dobbertin. The menu is full of comforting dishes with creative twists, all served up in a space that oozes personality and playfulness.
The vibe? Eclectic, whimsical, and feminine, with a splash of global flair. Set inside a gorgeous Victorian house in one of San Antonio’s most buzzing districts, the atmosphere feels like a mashup of vintage charm and modern magic.
Oh—and whatever you do, don’t skip the Impossible pot stickers.
Elsewhere
If you’re looking for something a little different from the typical Riverwalk scene, Elsewhere is your spot. It’s quirky, cool, and feels like someone took a funky secret garden, added porch swings, rainbow lights, and a rowboat, then threw in a solid pub-style menu and called it dinner.
I loved the vibe here—it’s playful and totally Instagram-worthy, but also super relaxed. We sat in a small greenhouse with a view of the river, sipping on local cider and people-watching like pros. Speaking of drinks, they’ve got a big list of beers, ciders, and cocktails, so whether you’re into hoppy IPAs or fruity spritzers, you’ll find your match.
We shared the cauliflower wings (crispy, tangy, and addictive) and the buffalo chicken sandwich, which was messy in all the right ways. The food’s fresh, and they’re proud of sourcing from local farmers and ranches—which makes it taste even better, honestly.
Ostra at the Mokara Hotel
Looking for something a little fancy? Ostra is your place. It’s inside the Mokara Hotel, right on the Riverwalk, and it’s absolutely gorgeous—like, date-night-gorgeous.
We sat outside with a view of the river and ordered the Crab Dumplings and Tuna Ceviche. Both were fresh, flavorful, and beautifully plated. They also have a killer wine list and elegant cocktails if you want to linger a while.
Pullman Market
Pullman Market is part market, part food hall, and completely fabulous—a must-visit foodie destination in San Antonio. With five quick eateries, four distinct restaurants, and a specialty grocery section filled with grab-and-go goodies, you can easily spend hours grazing, shopping, and soaking in the delicious energy. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down meal or just want to nibble your way through different stalls, there’s something for every craving. I highly recommend trying the ceviche—it was fresh, flavorful, and totally hit the spot!
➞ If you really want to drool, watch my restaurant video:
Traveling Soon? Use my Favorite Resources for Booking Your Trip!
Book Your Flight
Skyscanner is my favorite flight search engine, because it checks dozens of airlines so you can easily find the best fare deals. You can also select ‘cheapest month’ to find the lowest fares for your destination (I use this all the time!).
Book Your Accommodations
I use both Booking.com and Expedia for hotels, because each offers a couple different hotel choices and I like to compare the reviews on each one. If you have a group or are looking for more of a home atmosphere, head over to VRBO or AirBNB that has houses, apartments and even just a room for rent in every price range.
Book Your Rental Car
If love the freedom to explore like I do, driving from place to place is the best option! I always book with Discover Cars for the best prices and top brand options.
Book Some Fun Tours!
Viator and Get Your Guide are my go-to search engines for cool bucket list experiences! Each one can have different tours, so check both—why limit yourself, right?
Don’t Forget Travel Insurance
Travel can be unpredictable. Whether it’s a last-minute cancellation, an injury, or (ugh) theft, things happen. That’s why I recommend never leaving the country without travel insurance. Here are my faves: Safety Wing and World Nomads.
Get Packing & Travel Essentials Ready
Check out the Bucket List Journey Amazon Store to find all my favorite travel essentials. Everything from Packing cubes, to travel adapters and toiletry containers to walking shoes.
*Lastly, check travel.state.gov for visa requirements and safety information.
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