San Antonio is a great place to visit! It’s filled with history, friendly people, great food, is home to the San Antonio Spurs, the Fiesta Parade, and lots of free and budget friendly things to enjoy. As a Texan, I’ve been to San Antonio many times since childhood and it’s always fun. Best times of year to go (to avoid the hot weather) is between late September through April. Here are some of the best ways to spend a budget friendly weekend with these Free Things to do in San Antonio, Texas.
The Japanese Tea Garden – Free
The Japanese Tea Garden is a registered landmark. Entry is free to the public. It was an unexpected find for me and was like stepping into a beautiful wonderland. There is a Torri gate at the entrance, which was made in 1942. Torri gates symbolically marks the transition from the ordinary to sacred. The Japanese Tea Garden was established in 1917 and has a gorgeous 60-foot waterfall and koi pond. Be prepared to wear appropriate shoes as there are lots of steps. This land has experienced a lot of history and is a great place to explore and learn about.
The Alamo – Free Timed Entry
The Alamo is a famous historical landmark, an icon, and a world heritage site. The building was originally a Spanish Mission Church from 1755-1793. It played a pivotal role in Texas history during the Battle of The Alamo in 1836. It’s located in downtown San Antonio and centrally located on the Alamo Plaza grounds. The Alamo has interactive tours and exhibits. “Remember the Alamo” was a rally cry for Texans fighting for independence during the Texas Revolution.
Big Cowboy Boots – Free
Everything is bigger in Texas! That’s something most people know. And these boots are no exception. Located at North Star Mall are the largest cowboy boots in Texas (35 feet by 33 feet). You can park your car in the mall parking garage and walk over to take a picture. There were several families taking photos when I was there. A photo with the boots is a great way to memorialize your trip to Texas…and it’s free!
The Riverwalk – Free
The Riverwalk is about 1 block away from The Alamo. It’s a 15-mile-long urban water way. I like to enjoy the riverwalk by going to the RiverCenter Mall and take a ride on a river shittle. Some include a guided tour. Ticket prices range from $11.50-14.50. It’s also fun to walk along the river at the mall. You can stop and enjoy lunch at a number of restaurants right on the river.
The San Antonio Missions – Free
There are 5 Spanish colonial missions located in San Antonio. The San Antonio Missions National Park was established in 1978 by U.S. Congress. This park includes 4 of the missions: Mission Espada, Mission San Juan Capestrano, Mission San Jose, and Mission Conception (the 5th being the Alamo). I visited the Mission San Jose recently. The grounds are beautiful. I happened to be there when a ceremony was taking place at the church. Monks, nuns, and families dressed in their best were walking into the church as the bells were ringing. The mission San Jose was founded in 1720 by Father Antonio Margil de Jesus. There was free parking and a visitor center at the entrance of the park. You can walk the grounds and explore on your own or attend a Ranger guided tour offered daily at 10am and 11am.
El Mercado (Historic Market Square)
This is a favorite place of many to visit. It has a long history beginning in 1730. At the Market Square (or what I’ve grown up hearing it called “El Mercado”), you’ll find a lively space full of shops, great food, farmer’s market, music, and entertainment. Check their event’s page to see who will be performing when you go. Mi Tierra Café & Bakery is a fun place that many visit to get Tex Mex. Unfortunately, when I went, I didn’t find gluten-free options but my family (who is not gluten-free) enjoyed the pan dulce from their bakery.