Attractions and Places To See in Bexar County - Top 20

Bexar County is rich in history. You can explore the iconic The Alamo, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, which offers insight into the 1836 battle and Texas's revolutionary past. Other significant historical landmarks include the San Fernando Cathedral, one of the oldest continuously operated cathedrals in the US, the Bexar County Courthouse, and the Spanish Governor’s Palace, one of Texas's oldest residential buildings. The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, also a UNESCO site, features four 18th-century Spanish colonial missions.

Yes, Bexar County offers many family-friendly attractions. Beyond historical sites like The Alamo and the River Walk, families can enjoy marine shows and educational exhibits at SeaWorld San Antonio, thrilling rides at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, and wildlife conservation programs at the San Antonio Zoo. The Japanese Tea Garden also provides a serene and beautiful experience for all ages.

Bexar County boasts extensive natural areas. The Government Canyon State Natural Area is excellent for day-long hikes and plays a crucial role in protecting the Edwards Aquifer. The Salado Creek Greenway Trailhead and Leon Creek Greenway are part of an extensive trail system, offering over 50 miles of paved trails for urban escapes, hiking, and cycling. You can also explore Natural Bridge Caverns for an underground adventure.

Bexar County offers a variety of hiking trails for different skill levels. For easy walks, consider the Woodlawn Lake Loop or the Turkey Roost Orange Trail. Moderate options include the Wildcat Canyon and Far Reaches Loop Trail, or the El Camino and Rio Medina Loop Trail. For more detailed information and routes, you can explore the Hiking in Bexar County guide.

Yes, Bexar County has a robust trail system suitable for cycling and mountain biking. The Salado Creek Greenway and Leon Creek Greenway offer extensive paved paths. For mountain biking, you can find routes like the McAllister Park Blue Loop or the Outer loop of Government Canyon State Natural Area. Discover more routes in the MTB Trails in Bexar County guide.

Beyond historical missions, Bexar County offers a vibrant cultural scene. The San Antonio River Walk is a hub for authentic Hispanic and Mexican cultural heritage, with historic buildings and lively entertainment. You can also visit the Japanese Tea Garden, the San Antonio Museum of Art, the UTSA Institute of Texan Cultures, or the Witte Museum. The Arneson River Theater hosts outdoor performances.

Yes, several outdoor attractions in Bexar County offer wheelchair accessibility. The Salado Creek Greenway Trailhead and the Government Canyon Visitors Center are noted for being wheelchair-friendly. The paved sections of the Salado Creek Greenway and Leon Creek Greenway also provide accessible paths for enjoying nature.

For scenic views, the River Walk offers picturesque urban scenery, especially during boat tours. The Tower of the Americas provides panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas. Additionally, Crownridge Canyon Natural Area features canopy-level bridge overlooks, offering unique perspectives of forested canyon bottoms.

The best time for outdoor activities in Bexar County is typically during the cooler months, from late fall through early spring (October to April). During this period, temperatures are more moderate, making hiking, cycling, and exploring natural areas more comfortable. Summers can be very hot and humid.

For scenic walks and runs, the San Antonio River Walk is a popular choice, offering a unique urban experience along the waterway. The Salado Creek Greenway and Leon Creek Greenway provide extensive paved trails through natural settings, perfect for longer walks or runs. You can find specific running routes in the Running Trails in Bexar County guide.

Beyond the greenways, Bexar County is home to the Natural Bridge Caverns, Texas's largest underground wonder, offering guided tours through impressive cave formations. The region also sits on the edge of the Edwards Plateau (Texas Hill Country) to the northwest, characterized by limestone hills and canyons, and is blessed with the Edwards Aquifer, a significant water source.

Many parks and trails in Bexar County are dog-friendly, provided dogs are kept on a leash. The Salado Creek Greenway Trailhead is specifically categorized as dog-friendly, and generally, the extensive greenway system welcomes leashed pets. Always check specific park regulations before visiting.