For a first visit, I recommend spending 3 full days in San Antonio. If you can stay longer, do so as there's plenty to keep you busy. Once you spend a little time in San Antonio, you'll quickly realize that this won't be your last trip there. Even so, if you really have 3 days in San Antonio, that is, a long weekend, you'll want to read our recommendations on what to do on that last day of your trip.
When you return to the city, head to the top of the Tower of the Americas for a last look at the San Antonio landscape from the Flags Over Texas viewpoint. Hotel Havana Located in a Cuban-style villa dating back to 1914, the popular Hotel Havana is one of the city's most exclusive hotels and a fantastic place to stay during your weekend getaway to San Antonio. The second day of your weekend in San Antonio will take you to visit Mexican markets, historic neighborhoods and cathedrals for shopping, snacks and much more. Visit the World Heritage Festival every September for trivia nights, concerts and special exhibits at the San Antonio Missions.
Only in a city like San Antonio can you find tons of Texas history, Mexican culture, and beautiful artistic spaces, all within walking distance of the city center. This beautiful district is known for its large houses surrounded by lush trees, dating mainly from the 19th century, and is widely considered to be one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in San Antonio. A weekend in San Antonio is a good idea any time of the year, but there are definitely a few things to consider when planning, such as special events that take place in certain months. Christmas in San Antonio is a magical event, as the city lights up and hosts a variety of parades, festivals and Christmas events.
The 15-mile walking and biking trail takes you through each of the city's five missions: The Alamo, Misión Concepción, Misión San José, Misión San Juan, and Misión Espada. Housed in a former brewery, the San Antonio Museum of Art houses one of the largest and most impressive art collections in the Southern United States, including collections of Egyptian, Greek and Roman art. You can't visit San Antonio without going through one of the largest Mexican markets outside of Mexico. From impressive missions in Spanish to colorful river cruises and fun versions of Tex Mex, a weekend trip to San Antonio is sure to be packed with action and plenty of opportunities to learn, have lunch and rest.
The best times to see festivals in San Antonio include April (Holiday), November (Day of the Dead) and December (the Paseo del Rio is known for its incredible Christmas lights). Of all the things to do in San Antonio this weekend, you can't miss a tour of the Mission Trail. Start with a cozy breakfast and then set off on a full-day adventure exploring the Mission Trail, which will take you through 15 miles of hiking or biking between five historic San Antonio missions.
