12 Unforgettable Things to Do in San Antonio with Kids

Thinking about visiting San Antonio with your kids? This vibrant Texas city is packed with history, culture, and plenty of family-friendly attractions. Whether your little ones love exploring museums, spotting animals at the zoo, or riding thrilling roller coasters, San Antonio has something for everyone.

We recently spent a fun-filled weekend here with our child, and while traveling with kids can be a challenge, we found plenty of ways to keep them entertained while sneaking in some grown-up fun, too! If you’re planning a trip, here are some of the best things to do in San Antonio with kids to make your visit unforgettable.

Top 12 Things to Do in San Antonio with Kids

1. San Antonio Zoo – A must-visit for animal lovers

The San Antonio Zoo is a great place for families to visit, with over 750 animals from around the world. Kids will love seeing lions, giraffes and hippos up close, and interactive exhibits like Kangaroo Krossing and Butterfly Rainforest will add extra fun. The zoo has a train, petting zoo and educational programs for all ages.

And there are many other family friendly attractions in San Antonio including Six Flags Fiesta Texas, The DoSeum (children’s museum), San Antonio Aquarium, Natural Bridge Caverns and the Institute of Texan Cultures. Each one is unique so consider your child’s interests when planning your visit.

Visitor Tip: Get there early to avoid the crowds, especially on weekends. Bring sunscreen and wear comfy shoes, you’ll be doing a lot of walking! If you can, buy tickets online to skip the long lines.

2. The DoSeum – Hands-on fun and learning

If you’re visiting San Antonio with kids The DoSeum is a must see! This three story, fully interactive children’s museum is designed to spark curiosity, creativity and learning through play. With science and technology exhibits and arts and storytelling zones there’s something for every child to enjoy.

The DoSeum has both indoor and outdoor play areas so it’s perfect for year round fun. Parents will love the family friendly amenities including multiple restrooms, elevators, snack and coffee bar and an on-site store with educational toys.

Texas summers can be hot so The DoSeum is the perfect midday escape to cool off and engage the kids. And if you’re looking for a kid-free experience check out their “ReDo” adult only events (21+) where adults can enjoy the museum with drinks and activities.

Visitor Tip: The DoSeum is a popular spot especially on weekends and holidays. To avoid the crowds go early in the morning or later in the afternoon. Also check their website for special events and ticket discounts!

3. SeaWorld San Antonio

Thrilling rides and marine life shows for a family adventure in San Antonio head to SeaWorld San Antonio where you’ll find thrilling rides, animal up close and marine life shows! This theme park and aquarium has something for everyone from high speed roller coasters to interactive exhibits for younger kids.

One of the highlights is the Orca Encounter where you can watch killer whales perform while learning about marine conservation. Families will also love the Dolphin Lagoon where you can see and even interact with dolphins. If your kids love hands-on experiences be sure to visit the Explorer’s Reef where they can touch stingrays and small sharks!

Thrill seekers will enjoy the roller coasters like Texas Stingray (the tallest wooden coaster in Texas) and Wave Breaker: The Rescue Coaster, inspired by marine rescue missions.

If you’re visiting in the summer, don’t forget to check out Aquatica, SeaWorld’s water park, for splash-filled fun.

Visitor Tip: Purchase your tickets online in advance to save money and bypass the long lines at the entrance. Additionally, plan your visit around showtimes to enhance your experience—seating fills up quickly for popular performances!

4. LEGOLAND Discovery Center – A dreamland for LEGO fans

If your kids love LEGO, then LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio is a must-visit! This indoor attraction is chock-full of interactive exhibits, hands-on building stations and awesome rides that bring LEGO to life.

One of the highlights is MINILAND San Antonio, where kids can explore a city made entirely out of LEGO bricks. The Kingdom Quest Laser Ride lets families jump into a chariot and zap trolls to rescue a princess, while the Merlin’s Apprentice Ride takes you on a magical spinning adventure.

Younger kids will love the LEGO DUPLO Farm, designed for toddlers, while older kids can test their creativity in the LEGO Racers: Build & Test Zone, where they can build cars and race them down ramps. And there’s a 4D Cinema showing short LEGO films with wind, rain and fog!

Tip: LEGOLAND Discovery Center is for kids 3-10, and adults must be accompanied by a child to enter. Go on a weekday or earlier in the morning to avoid crowds. And check online for combo tickets with SEA LIFE San Antonio for extra savings!

5. San Antonio Aquarium – Interactive marine experiences

For a hands-on marine adventure, San Antonio Aquarium is the place to go with kids. Unlike regular aquariums, this one has interactive experiences where kids can get up close with marine life.

Kids can touch stingrays, feed tropical fish, and even hold starfish and sea urchins in the touch tanks. One of the highlights is the shark and stingray feeding experience where you can safely hand-feed these creatures. The aquarium also has a walk-through aviary where birds will land on your hands if you offer them treats.

Beyond marine life, the aquarium has reptile exhibits, lemurs and even a sloth encounter, so it’s a great place for animal lovers. With so many hands-on opportunities, it’s one of the best places in San Antonio to go for an interactive and educational outing.

Tip: Get here early to beat the crowds and consider purchasing an Animal Encounter Pass to feed sloths or hold a snake. Bring some quarters—kids love the fish-feeding stations!

6. Natural Bridge Caverns – Underground adventure for all ages

Looking for a family adventure in San Antonio? Natural Bridge Caverns is the place! As Texas’ largest show cave, you’ll get to explore massive underground chambers filled with incredible rock formations.

Take a guided tour through the caverns and learn about the cave’s history, geology, and hidden secrets. But the fun doesn’t stop underground! Above-ground kids will love the Twisted Trails Adventure Course, one of Texas’ only permanent outdoor mazes, and panning for treasure like the old-time miners.

With so many exciting activities, Natural Bridge Caverns is one of the best things to do in San Antonio with kids, offering a mix of adventure, education, and outdoor fun!

Visitor Tip: Wear comfortable shoes since the cavern tours involve walking on uneven surfaces. Also, book tickets online in advance, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot and avoid long wait times. If visiting in summer, the caverns stay a cool 70°F year-round, making them a great escape from the Texas heat!

7. The Alamo & San Antonio Missions – Fun history lessons for kids

A visit to The Alamo is a must for families exploring San Antonio! As one of the four historic missions in the city, it offers a fascinating glimpse into Texas history. Kids will love walking through the iconic site, learning about the Battle of the Alamo, and seeing real artifacts from the 1836 conflict.

While The Alamo itself is smaller than many expect, the experience is rich with interactive exhibits, living history demonstrations, and special memorials honoring the brave defenders. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a musket-firing demonstration in the courtyard!

Visitor Tip:

The Alamo is free to visit, but parking downtown can be pricey. Consider using a public garage ($19 for a full day) or ride-sharing to save money. Arrive early to avoid crowds and take advantage of guided tours for a deeper dive into history!

8. San Antonio River Walk & Boat Tour – A scenic family-friendly outing

A visit to San Antonio with kids wouldn’t be complete without exploring the San Antonio River Walk! This lively waterfront area is lined with restaurants, shops, and cultural attractions, making it a great spot for a relaxing family stroll.

One of the best ways to experience the River Walk is by taking a guided riverboat tour. These child-friendly boats offer a fun and educational ride, where a guide shares interesting facts about San Antonio’s history and landmarks. Families with strollers will find it convenient, as the boats allow easy boarding and seating accommodations.

For a full city experience, consider pairing the riverboat tour with a Hop-On Hop-Off bus tour, which lets you explore major attractions at your own pace. Whether you’re traveling with babies, toddlers, or older kids, the San Antonio River Walk is a must-visit family destination!

Visitor Tip:

To avoid the biggest crowds, visit early in the morning or late in the evening. If you’re dining along the River Walk, check for kid-friendly restaurants—some spots have great outdoor seating with river views!

9. Morgan’s Wonderland – An inclusive theme park for all kids

Morgan’s Wonderland is a one of a kind theme park designed with inclusivity in mind so it’s a must visit for families in San Antonio. As the world’s first ultra accessible theme park it has over 25 attractions including rides, playgrounds and interactive exhibits—all wheelchair accessible.

What makes Morgan’s Wonderland so special is inclusivity: any guest with a special need is admitted for free no questions asked. The park is designed for kids of all abilities to enjoy together so it’s a heartwarming and fun experience for the whole family.

In addition to regular rides the park also has Morgan’s Inspiration Island an accessible water park perfect for cooling off during the Texas summer. Whether your child loves splashing in the water, riding a carousel or exploring colorful playgrounds there’s something for everyone here.

Visitor Tip:

Since this park is super popular visit early in the day to avoid crowds. Also bring swimsuits if you plan to visit the water park. Tickets are affordable but check their website for family discounts!

10. Brackenridge Park – Perfect for picnics and outdoor play

If you’re looking for a relaxing outdoor escape in San Antonio Brackenridge Park is the perfect spot for families. This huge urban park has plenty of green space for picnics, playground fun and walking.

Kids will love the San Antonio Zoo which is located inside the park or taking a ride on the San Antonio Zoo Train a fun mini train that loops around the park. There are also hiking trails, duck ponds and plenty of shady spots—perfect for cooling off on a hot day.

For families who love history the park is home to the Japanese Tea Garden a beautiful peaceful space with koi ponds, stone bridges and a waterfall. Whether you want to let the kids run around, take a leisurely walk or have a picnic Brackenridge Park is a great spot for some free family fun.

Visitor Tip: Bring a picnic blanket and snacks as there is plenty of open grass to sit on. If you’re visiting on a weekend get there early to snag a good spot as this is a popular spot for locals!

11. Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair – Playgrounds, splash pads and family fun

For a day of fun outdoors Yanaguana Garden at Hemisfair is one of the best free attractions for families in San Antonio. This beautifully designed urban park has imaginative playgrounds, interactive art installations, climbing structures, and splash pads so it’s a great spot for kids of all ages.

Parents can sit in the shaded seating areas while the kids burn off energy on the ropes course, swings and slides. Kid-friendly restaurants and coffee shops surround the park so you can grab a snack while the little ones play.

Whether your child wants to run, climb, splash, or explore, Yanaguana Garden offers a safe and engaging space to enjoy the outdoors in the heart of San Antonio.

Visitor Tip:

Pack extra clothes or swimsuits if your kids want to play in the splash pad! Parking can be tricky, so consider using a rideshare service or nearby public parking.

12. Six Flags Fiesta Texas – Exciting rides and entertainment

For thrill-seeking families, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is the ultimate theme park experience in San Antonio! With roller coasters, family-friendly rides, live entertainment, and a water park, it’s a fantastic destination for kids of all ages.

Younger kids will love Bugs Bunny Boomtown. It is a section filled with gentle rides and character meet-and-greets. While older kids and teens can take on high-speed coasters like Superman: Krypton Coaster and Wonder Woman Golden Lasso Coaster. In the summer, White Water Bay, the park’s water park, is perfect for cooling off with wave pools and water slides.

Beyond rides, Six Flags offers daily shows, seasonal events, and themed attractions, which makes every visit unique.

Visitor Tip:

To avoid long lines, visit on a weekday or arrive early. Consider purchasing a Flash Pass to skip wait times, and don’t forget sunscreen and water. Texas heat can be intense!

Best Family-Friendly Restaurants in San Antonio

San Antonio has a great food scene and we had some amazing meals during our visit. Whether you’re craving BBQ, Tex-Mex or classic American fare there are plenty of family friendly options to choose from.

Best BBQ in San Antonio

For real Texas BBQ head to BBQ Station. It’s a bit of a drive from the River Walk but well worth it for tender brisket, smoky ribs and delicious sides. There aren’t many great BBQ spots near the River Walk so this is a good option if you’re craving Texas barbecue.

Best Mexican Restaurants in San Antonio

San Antonio has amazing Tex-Mex and some of our favorites are:

• Casa Rio – A historic restaurant right on the River Walk, known for classic Tex-Mex dishes.
• Acenar – Also on the River Walk, Acenar serves up modern Mexican cuisine with big flavors.
• La Gloria – In the trendy Pearl District, La Gloria is a great spot for authentic Mexican street food.

Our Favorite Restaurant: Boudro’s

If you only have time for one special meal we highly recommend Boudro’s on the River Walk. We loved it so much we ate there twice! The tableside guacamole, fresh seafood and signature prickly pear margaritas make it an unforgettable experience.

Dining on the River Walk

At least once during your visit make sure to eat outside on the River Walk. Many restaurants have riverside seating and some even have live music. It’s a great way to people watch, soak up the atmosphere and eat great food at the same time. Some restaurants have street level entrances but offer seating by the river so be sure to check where you’ll be dining before you choose a spot.

Visitor Tip:

Popular restaurants fill up fast especially on weekends. Make reservations in advance to secure a table at your favorite spot!

Where to Stay in San Antonio with Kids

1. Omni La Mansión del Rio (River Walk) – Best for Classic

We stayed at Omni La Mansión del Rio, a beautiful hotel right on the River Walk. The Spanish-style architecture, courtyard pool and riverside location was a great combo. If you can swing it, book a River Walk view room – the views were amazing!

2. Drury Plaza Hotel San Antonio Riverwalk – Best for Budget & Freebies

The Drury Plaza is highly rated for families because of free breakfast, evening snacks and an indoor/outdoor pool. Plus, it’s right on the River Walk so you can walk to all the top attractions.

3. Hyatt Regency Hill Country Resort & Spa (Seaworld) – Best for Resort Fun

If you’re going to Seaworld San Antonio, this family-friendly resort is a great choice. It has a lazy river, multiple pools, a golf course and outdoor activities so it’s perfect for both relaxation and adventure.

4. The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio – Best for Luxury & River Views

The Westin Riverwalk is a great option if you want spacious family rooms, a river view and a quiet location that’s still close to everything.

5. JW Marriott San Antonio Hill Country Resort – Best for a Family Getaway

This luxury resort just outside the city is perfect for families looking for a relaxing retreat with plenty of kid friendly activities. It has a huge water park, lazy river, golf course and a kids club.

Visitor Tip:

If you want to stay on the River Walk, book early – hotels fill up fast especially during peak season! Consider a river view room for a more scenic and memorable experience.

Travel Tips for Visiting San Antonio with Kids

Getting Around

San Antonio is easy to get around but depending on your plans it’s best to choose the right transportation.

Walking – If you’re downtown or on the River Walk walking is the easiest way to get to the main attractions. Many sights like The Alamo, the River Walk, and La Villita are within walking distance.

Car Rental – If you’ll be visiting SeaWorld, Natural Bridge Caverns or places outside downtown rent a car. Parking downtown can be expensive so look for hotels with free or discounted parking.

Public Transportation – San Antonio’s VIA Metropolitan Transit has affordable bus routes to popular attractions.

Rideshare (Uber/Lyft) – Good for short trips when walking isn’t ideal, especially in the hot summer months.

River Walk Boat Tours – For a unique way to see the city take a Go Rio River Cruise along the San Antonio River Walk.

Safety Tips for Families

San Antonio is a family-friendly city but always good to be aware of your surroundings.

✅ Stay Hydrated – Texas heat can be intense, especially in summer. Bring reusable water bottles and take breaks indoors when needed.

✅ Keep an Eye on Kids – The River Walk has no guardrails in some areas so be extra careful with younger kids.

✅ Use Sunscreen & Hats – The Texas sun is strong! Pack sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses to protect against sunburn.

✅ Be Aware in Crowded Areas – Attractions like The Alamo, Six Flags, and the River Walk can get busy. Consider a child ID bracelet or take a photo of your kids each morning in case you get separated.

✅ Choose Kid-Friendly Times – Visit theme parks and main attractions early in the morning or on weekdays to avoid big crowds.

Packing Essentials for San Antonio

Don’t forget to pack these must-haves for a stress-free family trip:

Comfortable Shoes – You’ll be doing a lot of walking so wear good sneakers or sandals.

Sun Protection – Sunscreen, sunglasses, hats, and light clothing are a must.

Swimwear & Towels – If visiting Six Flags Water Park, SeaWorld or hotel pools pack swimsuits and quick dry towels.

Kid Essentials – If traveling with younger kids bring snacks, refillable water bottles, and a stroller for long days out.

Chargers & Power Bank – For phone for photos, maps, and rideshare apps.

Small Backpack – For snacks, wipes and kid essentials while out and about.

Bug Spray – If visiting parks or outdoor areas like Brackenridge Park.

Final Thoughts

San Antonio offers unforgettable family adventures, from the thrilling rides at SeaWorld to the underground wonders of Natural Bridge Caverns. If you love exploring new places, you might also enjoy the scenic beauty of Kentucky or a fun-filled day at Central Park NYC, both perfect for family outings. No matter where you go, creating memories with your kids is what truly matters!