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2-Day Solo Exploration: San Antonio's Hidden Food, Wine & Nightlife

San Antonio, Texas

2 days

Mission San Jose
Neon light theater sign
Boats at the San Antonio river walk
City skyline at sunset
Mexican Market Square Mexican paper decoration

About San Antonio, Texas

Experience the rich history and vibrant culture of San Antonio, Texas. Visit the iconic Alamo, a symbol of Texas' resistance against Mexican rule, and stroll along the picturesque River Walk, a network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River. Explore the historic Market Square, the largest Mexican market in the U.S., for unique shopping and dining experiences. Enjoy thrilling rides at Six Flags Fiesta Texas or get up close with marine life at SeaWorld San Antonio. Discover the city's burgeoning art scene at the San Antonio Museum of Art and the McNay Art Museum. With its blend of Tex-Mex cuisine, lively festivals, and warm hospitality, San Antonio offers an unforgettable travel experience.

2-Day Itinerary

Day 1

Exploring the River Walk and the San Antonio Missions

Morning

Start your day with a leisurely stroll along the famous River Walk. This iconic pathway winds along the San Antonio River, offering beautiful views and a peaceful atmosphere. Stop at a local café for a breakfast of Tex-Mex cuisine, a fusion of Mexican and Texan flavors that is a must-try in San Antonio.

Lunch

For lunch, head to the Pearl District, a vibrant area known for its culinary scene. Here, you can find a variety of food stalls offering everything from gourmet burgers to artisanal cheeses. Enjoy your meal outdoors in the district's green spaces.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. This UNESCO World Heritage Site is home to four 18th-century Spanish colonial missions. Take a self-guided tour to learn about the history and architecture of these fascinating structures.

Dinner

In the evening, head to Southtown, a neighborhood known for its eclectic dining scene. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant serving farm-to-table dishes, paired with a selection of Texas wines.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local jazz club in the downtown area. San Antonio has a vibrant nightlife scene, with live music venues offering everything from jazz and blues to country and rock.

Morning

Begin your second day with a visit to the San Antonio Museum of Art. This museum houses an extensive collection of art from around the world, including a notable collection of Latin American art.

Lunch

For lunch, head to the King William Historic District. This area is known for its beautiful 19th-century homes and a variety of dining options. Enjoy a meal at a local restaurant serving Southern cuisine.

Afternoon

Spend your afternoon exploring the San Antonio Botanical Garden. This 38-acre garden features a variety of plant life from around the world, as well as a beautiful Japanese garden.

Dinner

In the evening, head to the Alamo Heights neighborhood for dinner. This area is known for its upscale dining scene, with restaurants serving everything from Italian to Asian cuisine.

Evening

End your day with a visit to a local craft brewery in the downtown area. San Antonio has a thriving craft beer scene, with numerous breweries offering tours and tastings.

Attractions in Itinerary (8)

River Walk

1
River Walk

A city park and network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, one-story beneath the streets of San Antonio.

Attractions
Tours
Cultural Experiences
Pearl District

2
Pearl District

A vibrant neighborhood known for its food, shopping, and cultural events. It's also home to the Culinary Institute of America's San Antonio campus.

Attractions
Food and Drink
Shopping
Neighborhoods
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

3
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

A National Historical Park preserving four of the five Spanish frontier missions in San Antonio.

Attractions
Parks
Monuments
Cultural Experiences
Southtown

4
Southtown

Known as the arts district, Southtown is home to various art galleries, trendy restaurants, and unique shops.

Neighborhoods
San Antonio Museum of Art

5
San Antonio Museum of Art

The museum houses a comprehensive collection that represents more than 5,000 years of history and an array of cultures from around the world.

Attractions
Museums
Cultural Experiences
King William Historic District

6
King William Historic District

A historic district that features beautiful homes from the late 1800s, many of which are now restaurants, art galleries, museums, and bed and breakfasts.

Attractions
Cultural Experiences
Architecture
Neighborhoods
San Antonio Botanical Garden

7
San Antonio Botanical Garden

A 38-acre living museum featuring vast amounts of plants from around the world, a conservatory, and various specialty gardens.

Attractions
Parks
Gardens
Alamo Heights

8
Alamo Heights

An affluent neighborhood known for its charm, tree-lined streets, and upscale boutiques.

Neighborhoods

Local Food and Drinks (12)

Barbacoa

A traditional Mexican dish that has become a staple in San Antonio. It's made from parts of a cow's head, slow-cooked until tender and flavorful.

Puffy Tacos

A San Antonio specialty, these are tacos with a twist. The tortillas are fried until they puff up, creating a light, crispy shell that's filled with meat, cheese, and fresh veggies.

Chili con Carne

A hearty stew made with meat, usually beef, and chili peppers. It's a signature dish of Tex-Mex cuisine and a must-try in San Antonio.

Chicken Fried Steak

A classic Southern dish that's popular in San Antonio. It's a piece of steak, breaded and fried like chicken, and typically served with gravy.

Texas BBQ

San Antonio is known for its Texas-style barbecue, which typically involves slow-cooking meat over a wood or charcoal fire.

Churros

A popular dessert in San Antonio, churros are fried-dough pastries, often sprinkled with sugar and served with a side of chocolate for dipping.

Enchiladas

A popular Mexican dish that's widely available in San Antonio. It's a corn tortilla rolled around a filling, covered with chili pepper sauce.

Shiner Bock

A popular Texas beer that's a must-try in San Antonio. It's a smooth, dark lager with a distinctive flavor.

Texas Margarita

A twist on the classic margarita, the Texas Margarita is made with tequila, lime juice, and a splash of orange juice. It's a popular drink in San Antonio.

Sweet Tea

A staple in Southern cuisine, sweet tea is a popular drink in San Antonio. It's black tea that's brewed strong and sweetened.

Queso Flameado

A delicious Mexican dish popular in San Antonio. It's a hot melted cheese dish served with tortillas.

Guacamole

A classic Mexican dish that's a staple in San Antonio. It's a dip made from ripe avocados, often served with tortilla chips.

Best time to visit

The best time to visit San Antonio, Texas, is from November to April when the weather is comfortable and the city is less crowded. These months also coincide with some of the city's most popular events such as the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo in February and Fiesta San Antonio in April. However, if you're a fan of hot weather, summer can also be a great time to visit, just be prepared for high temperatures.

National holidays

Here you can find the national calendar of all public holidays for the year. These dates are subject to change as official changes are announced, so check back regularly for updates.

DateDayHoliday Name

January 1

Mon

New Year's Day

January 15

Mon

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

February 19

Mon

Presidents' Day

May 27

Mon

Memorial Day

June 19

Wed

Juneteenth

July 4

Thu

Independence Day

September 2

Mon

Labor Day

October 14

Mon

Columbus Day

November 11

Mon

Veterans Day

November 28

Thu

Thanksgiving Day

December 25

Wed

Christmas Day

Please note that during national and public holidays, opening hours for establishments, museums, etc. may vary. Don't forget to check in advance!

How to get around

Renting a car is a popular option for getting around San Antonio, especially for those who plan on visiting attractions outside of the city center. Most major rental companies have locations at the airport and in the city.

San Antonio's public transit system, VIA Metropolitan Transit, operates bus routes throughout the city. This is a cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're staying in the downtown area.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in San Antonio. This can be a convenient option for getting to and from the airport, or for trips where public transit isn't convenient.

San Antonio has a bike share program, B-Cycle, with stations throughout the city. This can be a fun and healthy way to explore the city, especially the downtown area and the Mission Reach Trail.

The San Antonio River Walk is one of the city's top attractions, and you can explore it by taking a boat tour. These boats are not just for sightseeing, they also serve as a unique method of transportation, with stops at various points along the River Walk.

Taxis are available throughout San Antonio, although they may be less convenient and more expensive than ridesharing services. They can be hailed on the street, or you can call a taxi company to arrange a pickup.

Many of San Antonio's top attractions, including the Alamo, the River Walk, and the Pearl District, are within walking distance of each other in the downtown area. Walking can be a pleasant way to explore the city, especially in the cooler morning and evening hours.

While we strive for accuracy in our "How to get around" section, the information may not always be up-to-date or 100% accurate; we highly recommend cross-checking with local resources before your travel.

Important information

Currency$ USD

Time zoneUTC-5

Driving sideRight

Emergency phone911

Drinking waterYes

Power sockets

Power socket type APower socket type B

Voltage120 V

Things to know about San Antonio, Texas as a first time visitor

1

San Antonio is located in the southern part of Texas and is the state's second-largest city.

2

The city has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. Average summer temperatures can reach up to 95°F (35°C), while winter temperatures can drop to around 40°F (4°C).

3

San Antonio is a diverse city with a rich cultural heritage, heavily influenced by Mexican and Texan cultures.

4

The city is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine, so be sure to try local dishes like enchiladas, tamales, and chili con carne.

5

San Antonio is a very walkable city, especially in the downtown area. However, if you plan to explore areas outside of downtown, renting a car might be a good idea.

6

Public transportation is available through the VIA Metropolitan Transit, which operates buses throughout the city.

7

San Antonio is in the Central Time Zone (CT), and observes daylight saving time.

8

The city is generally safe, but like any large city, it's advisable to stay alert and aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

9

Tipping is customary in San Antonio. It's typical to tip 15-20% of the total bill at restaurants, and $1-2 per bag to bellhops at hotels.

10

The city's main airport is the San Antonio International Airport (SAT), located about 8 miles north of downtown.

11

San Antonio has a sales tax rate of 8.25%, which is added to most retail purchases.

12

The city is home to several major events throughout the year, including the San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo in February, Fiesta San Antonio in April, and the Day of the Dead celebrations in November.

13

San Antonio is known for its vibrant arts scene, with numerous galleries, theaters, and music venues throughout the city.

14

The city is also home to several professional sports teams, including the San Antonio Spurs (NBA), San Antonio FC (USL), and the San Antonio Missions (Minor League Baseball).

15

San Antonio has a strong military presence, with several active military bases in and around the city.

16

The city is home to several colleges and universities, including the University of Texas at San Antonio and St. Mary's University.

17

San Antonio's River Walk is a must-visit, but remember it can get crowded, especially during peak tourist season and during special events.

18

If you're a nature lover, San Antonio has plenty of parks and green spaces to explore, including the San Antonio Botanical Garden and Brackenridge Park.

19

The city is also a gateway to the Texas Hill Country, known for its beautiful landscapes, wineries, and charming small towns.

20

Remember to pack a hat, sunscreen, and plenty of water, especially if you're visiting in the summer, as the Texas sun can be intense.

Packing List

  • Clothing

  • Underwear

  • Socks

  • T-shirts

  • Shorts

  • Jeans or casual pants

  • Comfortable walking shoes

  • Swimsuit

  • Light jacket or sweater

  • Pajamas

  • Hat or cap for sun protection

  • Toiletries

  • Toothbrush and toothpaste

  • Deodorant

  • Razor and shaving cream

  • Shampoo and conditioner

  • Body wash or soap

  • Sunscreen

  • Makeup and makeup remover

  • Hairbrush or comb

  • Prescription medications

  • First-aid kit

  • Travel documents and essentials

  • Driver's license or ID card

  • Credit and debit cards

  • Cash

  • Hotel reservation confirmation

  • Car rental confirmation

  • Health insurance card

  • Emergency contact information

  • Electronics and gadgets

  • Smartphone and charger

  • Headphones

  • Camera and charger

  • Portable power bank

  • Travel adapter (if needed)

  • Miscellaneous items

  • Snacks

  • Bottled water

  • Travel guidebook for San Antonio

  • Sunglasses

  • Umbrella or raincoat

  • Reusable shopping bag

  • Travel pillow and blanket

  • Hand sanitizer

  • Tissues

Weather Conditions

San Antonio, Texas, is known for its hot summers and mild winters. The city experiences a subtropical climate, which means it can get quite hot, especially between May and September. During these months, temperatures can reach up to 95°F (35°C), so it's essential to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen to protect your skin from the intense sun. The city's hottest months are July and August, so if you're not a fan of high temperatures, you might want to avoid visiting during this time. Instead, consider coming in the spring or fall when the weather is more moderate, with temperatures typically ranging between 70°F (21°C) and 85°F (29°C). Winter in San Antonio is relatively mild, with temperatures rarely dropping below 40°F (4°C). However, it can occasionally get chilly, especially at night, so it's a good idea to pack a light jacket if you're visiting between December and February. San Antonio can also be quite humid, which can make the heat feel more intense during the summer and cause cooler temperatures in the winter. Therefore, it's recommended to wear light, breathable clothing in the summer and layers in the winter. Rainfall can occur throughout the year, but May and October are typically the wettest months. It's always a good idea to check the forecast before your trip and pack an umbrella or raincoat just in case. Remember, the weather can change quickly, so it's always a good idea to be prepared. Enjoy your visit to San Antonio!

MonthHi / Lo (°C)Weather Overview

January

20° / 4°

January is the coldest month in San Antonio, but it's still relatively mild with occasional rainfall.

February

22° / 6°

February sees a slight increase in temperature, but it's still a bit chilly, especially in the evenings.

March

26° / 10°

March marks the beginning of spring with warmer temperatures and blooming flowers.

April

30° / 14°

April is a great time to visit with pleasant temperatures and low chances of rain.

May

35° / 19°

May gets quite warm, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the city.

June

39° / 23°

June is the start of summer with high temperatures, so remember to stay hydrated.

July

40° / 24°

July is the hottest month in San Antonio, with high humidity and occasional thunderstorms.

August

40° / 24°

August continues the summer heat, but also brings the possibility of tropical storms.

September

37° / 21°

September marks the end of summer, with temperatures starting to cool down slightly.

October

32° / 16°

October offers comfortable temperatures and beautiful fall foliage, making it a great time to visit.

November

26° / 10°

November is a cooler month with less crowds, making it a good time for sightseeing.

December

22° / 6°

December is a festive time in San Antonio, with cooler temperatures and holiday decorations throughout the city.

Did you know?

Did you know that San Antonio is the seventh most populated city in the United States?

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