Whether you’re into free splash pads or cool amusement parks you need tickets for, this guide is your go-to for kid-friendly fun in San Antonio, Texas. The city is huge, so check this out and use the map below to discover tons of exciting activities for kids nearby!
Discover family-friendly attractions in San Antonio for your kids to enjoy:
- LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio.
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
- iFLY San Antonio.
- The Alamo.
- San Antonio River Walk.
- San Fernando Cathedral, San Antonio.
- Tower of the Americas.
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park.
Is San Antonio A Good City To Visit With Kids?
San Antonio is a fantastic city for a family trip!
Not only does it offer awesome restaurants, award-winning breweries, and great places to stay, but it’s also rich in history. Unlike big cities like Dallas, Houston, or Austin, San Antonio has a centuries-old history that you can experience by visiting The Alamo downtown, dating back to the early 1700s!
Alongside the fun attractions like Aquatica waterpark or Six Flags Fiesta Texas, you can explore culturally enriching activities with your kids. It’s a win-win!
When you’re in San Antonio with the kids, pack swimsuits, towels, and a change of clothes because chances are you’ll be hitting the pool or a splash pad!
And if you’re visiting in winter, don’t worry. We’ve got indoor options like SEA LIFE San Antonio and Legoland to keep the family entertained when it’s too chilly for outdoor adventures. Enjoy your trip!
Free Things To Do In San Antonio With Kids
We understand that dining out at pricey kid-friendly restaurants or buying tickets for the whole family at Six Flags isn’t always doable.
That’s why this guide is packed with FREE things to do in San Antonio with kids. Not everything listed here is free, but many are.
Under every paragraph, you’ll find the cost of the activity. If it’s a totally free experience, we’ll make sure to let you know!
Enjoy exploring San Antonio with your little ones!
27 Things To Do With Kids In San Antonio
1. The Splash Park and Playground at Hemisfair Park
The splash pad and playground at Hemisfair are an AWESOME activity for young children in San Antonio!
Hemisfair Park, located in the heart of San Antonio with the iconic Tower of the Americas observation tower/restaurant, is easily accessible from anywhere in the city. With paid parking nearby, ample space for large crowds, and the best part – it’s completely FREE for kids in San Antonio.
While older kids will enjoy it, the splash pad and playground are particularly fantastic for young children, especially toddlers aged 1-3. On a warm day in Texas, you can easily spend a few delightful hours in the southwest corner, where you’ll discover an epic splash park and playground.
For parents, there are comfortable chairs to lounge in while the little ones have a blast running around in the fountains, all under plenty of natural shade.
One of the standout features for me is the abundance of shade in this public space. The designers took into account the scorching Texas sun, especially in July, August, and September. So, you can enjoy a cool and shaded playtime with your kids.
And here’s a bonus – when the kiddos need a break, you can conveniently order some delicious pizza from nearby Dough Pizzeria. It’s not just on our list of the best pizza spots in San Antonio; it might just be THE best.
Cost: Free
2. The San Antonio Zoo
Certainly, here’s a non-plagiarized rephrasing:
Every year, over a MILLION visitors flock to this place! The San Antonio Zoo is a blast for the entire family. Established in 1914, it stands as one of the oldest zoos in the United States, sprawling across 35 acres and housing more than 3,500 animals. (Check out 10 tips for an awesome SA Zoo visit!)
For a unique experience, consider booking a behind-the-scenes tour with hippos at the San Antonio Zoo. It’s a fascinating opportunity as you actually get to feed the hippos – a rarity at most zoos! Be sure to book in advance, as the experience is limited to a specific number of guests.
The SA Zoo offers a variety of other exciting experiences too, such as an after-hours VIP tour, a Flamingo Mingle, Lory Landing (yes, bright birds might land on your head!), and many more thrilling activities that appeal to kids of all ages.
Local tip: Since the zoo is located in Brackenridge Park, you can pair your visit with a trip to Kiddie Park for classic carnival rides or snag tickets for the San Antonio Zoo Train, making stops at the Japanese Tea Garden and the Witte Museum.
Also worth noting: Once a month, the San Antonio Zoo offers $8 tickets for locals. Check out the full list of Locals Day offerings [here](link).
Cost: Free for children under 2, $17.16 for ages 3-11, and $21.73 for ages 12+.
3. SEA LIFE San Antonio
Distinct from Sea World, SEA LIFE San Antonio offers a relatively new experience conveniently located near the River Walk.
This indoor aquarium provides an engaging opportunity for kids to explore sea creatures and underwater life.
Things to do with kids:
- Experience the interactive rock pool (perfect for little ones).
- Walk through a sea tunnel where fish swim overhead.
- Explore a bay housing five different types of stingrays.
Make sure to check out the latest addition to the SEA LIFE San Antonio family – a vibrant orange octopus that found its new home in the aquarium in September 2022.
Cost: Free for children 2 and under, $24.99 for ages 3+
4. Brackenridge Park
We can’t create a guide to the best kid-friendly activities in San Antonio without highlighting Brackenridge! This stunning 343-acre public park is not only centrally located (making it super convenient for your kids), but it’s also a FREE option with loads of fun things to do.
A visit to the park itself is a blast, with playgrounds and ample space for a picnic lunch, kicking a soccer ball, and more. What makes it even better is that it’s connected to other exciting options within Brackenridge Park.
While you’re there, explore the Japanese Tea Garden, the Witte Museum, or the San Antonio Zoo – all within Brackenridge. You could easily fill an entire day in this beautiful outdoor space.
Strictly focusing on Brackenridge Park (excluding the entire district), here are some things to enjoy: a playground, picnic areas, bird watching, walking trails, and, of course, the beautiful river flowing through the park.
It’s a spacious, serene area perfect for a family picnic in San Antonio.
Cost: Free
5. SeaWorld
No list of things to do with kids in San Antonio is complete without mentioning SeaWorld! While you may already be familiar with it, here are a few quick facts.
SeaWorld in San Antonio is the largest among the three parks in the SeaWorld chain, sprawling over 250 acres. During your visit, you can indulge in roller coasters, live entertainment, and marine exhibits featuring captivating shows with beluga whales and dolphins.
There are additional exhibits like the Sea Lion and Otter Spotlight, in-water interactions (yes, you can actually pet a dolphin at SeaWorld!), and VIP tours if you’re looking to upgrade for the full experience.
SeaWorld also boasts multiple restaurants, cafés, snack bars, and coffee shops within the amusement park. If you decide to spend a whole day here, no need to worry about packing a lunch!
Cost: Free for ages 2 and under, $39.99 – $64.99 for ages 3+ depending on the day of the week.
6. Aquatica
Adjacent to SeaWorld, you’ll discover Aquatica, an incredible family-friendly water park. Unlike SeaWorld, Aquatica is specifically themed around the ocean, offering a different experience as compared to SeaWorld’s focus on marine shows and exhibits.
Aquatica is the go-to destination for wave pools, lazy rivers, splash parks, and a plethora of water slides and tube rides.
Cost: Free for ages 2 and under, $35.99 – $51.99 for ages 3+ depending on the day of the week.
7. Splash Pad at the Pearl District
The historic Pearl District is a fantastic spot for everyone, and kids will have a blast at the free splash pad nestled in the heart of the outdoor area!
The Pearl District boasts numerous independently-owned restaurants, bars, retail stores, and coffee shops. It’s also home to the gorgeous Hotel Emma, some of the city’s top-notch restaurants, and an indoor food hall.
Splash Pad at The Pearl District:
But if you’re on the lookout for family-friendly activities in San Antonio, make sure to pack a change of clothes and a couple of towels. Let the kids enjoy running around in the refreshing fountains.
This splash pad is conveniently located next to the food hall, allowing you to grab some delicious food and a drink while the little ones have a splashing good time.
Cost: Free
8. DoSeum
The DoSeum is an incredible 2-story children’s museum recently named the best in the nation by USA Today for 2022.
This museum is a treasure trove of hands-on and interactive play experiences, featuring the spy academy, an innovation station, an outdoor play area, and much more. The exhibits not only provide fun but also impart skills, encouraging imagination and innovation – something parents absolutely love!
Don’t miss out on Little Town – a space where little ones can explore a child-scaled HEB grocery store or make a stop at a kid-sized Whataburger for a pretend snack. The Sensations Studios exhibit with lights, sound, bouncing lasers, and mirrors is also a must-visit. Kids can play and let their imaginations soar until they’re positively worn out!
The DoSeum goes beyond museum visits, offering camps, field trips, and various classes to inspire young minds to embrace the joy of learning.
Cost: Free for children under 1, $14 for ages 1+
9. Six Flags Fiesta Texas
Hey, you can’t miss the BIG one on our list of awesome stuff for kids in San Antonio: Six Flags Fiesta Texas.
Six Flags is like a whole bunch of parks in one! There’s Thrill Seeker Park, DC Universe (with the 51-meter Superman ride), Los Festivales (been here since 1992!), Crackaxle Canyon (tallest coaster is here), Spassburg, Rockville, and Fiesta Bay Boardwalk. And guess what? You get all of these with just one ticket!
If you’ve got some folks who love rides in your gang, you really should plan a day at this amazing amusement park. Six Flags Fiesta Texas is always one of the top amusement parks in the whole country, and your trip to San Antonio just wouldn’t be complete without a day at Six Flags.
10. Hurrican Harbor San Antonio
Guess what? In April 2023, the water park at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, once called White Water Bay, got a cool makeover and is now HURRICANE HARBOR! (Makes sense, right? There are other Six Flags water parks in Texas with the same name, so now they all match.)
Just a heads up, it’s not open every single day in the summer, so if you’re working with a tight schedule, you might want to check out Aquatica (another fantastic waterpark in San Antonio) instead.
Cost: If you’re rocking a Six Flags membership or platinum pass, the admission is already covered. But if you snag a single day pass, you’ll need to chip in a little extra to dive into Hurricane Harbor – starting as low as $7. Be sure to check the website for open days!
11. Eat Some Pizza In San Antonio!
Kids really, really love pizza. It’s like a super known fact. So, if you’re planning a cool day out in SA with your little ones and want yummy lunch ideas, you gotta check our guide to the best pizza spots in San Antonio.
Loads of great choices, like Dough Pizzeria at Hemisfair Park (bonus: there’s a splash pad and playground!), Julian’s, a classic Italian spot, and Back Unturned if you’re up for a brewery stop and a pizza-and-beer combo.
As usual, we’ve got a map to make it easy-peasy for you to find a pizza place close by. So, have a peek at the guide, pick a pizza spot in San Antonio that’s close and interesting, and get ready to be the coolest parent of the year according to your kids.
12. Japanese Tea Garden in Brackenridge Park
The beautiful sunken gardens in Brackenridge Park are a fantastic spot to take your kids! You might not spend a whole day there, but you can easily enjoy 30-45 minutes letting them climb the steps, watch the koi, and marvel at the waterfall. Here are 5 cool facts about the Japanese Tea Garden in San Antonio.
The history of this place is really interesting and something your kids might find fascinating: the space is sunken because it used to be an old limestone rock quarry. Back in 1917, they got prisoners to shape it into the archways, bridges, and islands you see today.
In 1919, a local Japanese-American artist lived in the park and raised 8 children. (Yeah, pretty wild!)
After the artist passed away in 1941, the family got kicked out, and to avoid vandalism during WWII’s anti-Japanese sentiment, they changed the name to “Chinese Tea Garden.”
Even though it officially went back to “Japanese Tea Garden” in the 1980s, the sign still says “Chinese Tea Garden” when you walk in.
It’s a breathtaking spot with a lot of history. And guess what? Admission is free for everyone, 365 days a year.
Cost: Free
13. Kiddie Park
Right by the San Antonio Zoo in Brackenridge Park, the historic Kiddie Park in San Antonio is like stepping back in time.
It’s America’s oldest kids’ amusement park, dating all the way back to 1925. And don’t worry, they’ve updated the rides to keep everything super safe! There’s a classic carousel, a Ferris wheel, and cool carnival games like the milk bottle toss.
Even though the Kiddie Park moved to Brackenridge Park in 2019, it still holds onto that old school charm and joy from its original spot.
It’s a fantastic suggestion for grandparents to bring their grandkids. They get to relive some of their childhood memories of carnival rides and fairs while making new memories with the little ones.
Cost: $14 for unlimited rides, or $3 per ride
14. Eat At A Kid-Friendly San Antonio Restaurant!
You’re in for brisket that practically melts in your mouth, their famous glazed pork ribs, and the most amazing jalapeño cheesy rice you’ve ever tasted at Pinkerton’s BBQ in San Antonio… but what really makes this spot super kid-friendly is its location.
Pinkerton’s BBQ is right downtown, but it’s right next to Legacy Park.
So, here’s the cool part – the restaurant kinda comes with a “front yard.” Picture this: grassy hills, picnic tables, and a TON of space for the little ones to run around before, during, or after lunch. How awesome is that?
15. Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
A bit north of San Antonio, but totally worth it – the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch is an awesome spot to take your kids!
USA Today called it one of the top 10 safari parks in the nation, and it’s a super cool way to spend a few hours in a unique way.
It’s like an “African safari, Texas-style” – you stay in your car and drive through the 400-acre property, checking out over 500 animals. So, no need to worry about chasing your kids around; they can stay safely strapped in and still have a blast.
They even have a covered pavilion, and you can bring your own picnic lunch into the park.
Cost: Free for ages 2 and under, $19.99 for ages 3-11, $28.99 for ages 12+
16. San Antonio Public Library
No matter where you are in the country, going to the main library is usually a good idea. Big cities spend lots of money on their library buildings, activities, and staff, and San Antonio’s public library is no different.
The San Antonio Public Library (SAPL) is a big deal for learning, knowing stuff, enjoying culture, and having fun in the city. The Central Library is huge, with a cool Chihuly blown glass sculpture, a whole floor just for kids, and a neat used book store in the basement called the “Book Cellar.”
Just so you know, they’re giving the library a big makeover right now (including a brand new area just for kids!), so some parts might be closed for a bit.
Cost: Free
17. Pearsall Park in San Antonio
I’m not joking when I say this San Antonio park is AWESOME. It’s on the southwest side of the city, and even if you have to drive a bit to get there, trust me, it’s worth it. It’s one of the best FREE things to do with kids in San Antonio, and you can turn it into a whole morning adventure!
This 505-acre park pretty much has everything you could dream of for a super fun day out with kids in San Antonio!
They’ve got the biggest playground in the city, complete with a couple of seriously EPIC slides. I mean, these things are so tall!
And there’s a splash pad that’s split into two separate little parks, so it never gets too crowded. How cool is that?
18. San Antonio Botanical Garden
It’s a 38-acre urban oasis right in the city. There’s a Family Adventure Garden with a fantastic splash area and tons of cool spaces that make playtime so much fun.
Every Tuesday, the garden has a 30-minute Little Sprouts Hike with a different lesson each week. Plus, there’s even a children’s vegetable garden for ages 7-16.
Even though it’s a great spot for a fun adults-only day in San Antonio, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is an awesome choice for kids too.
There’s plenty of beautiful free space in the garden for kids to just run around and be, well, kids.
Cost: Free for ages 2 and under, $13 for ages 3-13, $16 for ages 14+.
19. Morgan’s Wonderland
Welcome to the world’s first super-friendly theme park – a must-visit if you’re in San Antonio with kids! It’s called Morgan’s Wonderland, and it’s a fantastic 25-acre playground where everyone, no matter their age or abilities, can have a blast.
More than 25 cool rides, play areas, and fun stuff await you. And guess what? There’s an awesome water park nearby called Inspiration Island!
Morgan’s Wonderland was created by a dad who wanted a place where all kids, with or without disabilities, could play together. It’s a real treasure that kids of all ages will love.
Here’s the lowdown on the cost: It’s free for guests with needs and kids under 2, $13 for kids aged 3-17, and $19 for adults. Want to explore both the amusement park and the splash park? They offer a combo admission too!
20. The Witte Museum
Step into the Witte Museum – a time-honored spot since 1926 and still one of the coolest things to do with kids in San Antonio!
This museum is all about Texas nature, science, and culture, making it a perfect pick for families with different interests. It’s not just a museum; it’s an interactive adventure!
Explore the HEB Body Adventure, a thrilling multi-level journey spread across four floors. And that’s not all – they have both permanent exhibitions and ever-changing ones.
Recent additions? Get ready for outdoor survival skills (complete with an indoor zipline!), fantasy creatures, and The Power of Poisons – an awesome exhibit on poisonous plants, dart frogs, and toxic caterpillars.
Here’s the deal on cost: It’s free for the tiny tots aged 3 and under, $10 for the curious 4-11 year-olds, $13 for senior, and $14 for those aged 12 and up. Time for a fascinating family outing!
21. Magik Theatre
Get ready for a theater experience the whole family will love! The Magik Theatre is pro at creating plays that are just right for kids and families – both in content and duration. No worries about your little ones nodding off during a never-ending 3-hour show!
Here’s the scoop: The Magik Theatre hosts family-friendly performances all year at their main theater, including special shows for kids with different needs. They even take the show on the road, visiting schools and special events around the city. So, every kid gets a chance to dive into the world of theater thanks to these pros!
Find them in Hemisfair Park, and it’s perfect to pair with other nearby fun stuff. Think free splash pads, dinner at Dough, or a trip up the Tower of the Americas.
As for the cost, it’s around $17-25 per ticket, but keep an eye out for their occasional “Pay What You Wish” performances. Time to add a bit of theatrical magic to your family adventures!
Read also: Why San Antonio is Better than Austin
22. The Twig Book Shop
Discover the cutest indie bookstore at The Pearl – perfect for kids and folks of every age!
Here’s the scoop: Every Friday morning, dive into the magic of weekly story time (with bonus sessions in the summer!) tailored for the little ones. And guess what? There’s more! Look out for author visits and book signings, especially if you’ve got big kids and adult bookworms in your crew.
If your family is all about the love for books, a visit to The Twig Book Shop is a must.
And the best part? It won’t cost you a dime! Time to add a sprinkle of literary delight to your family adventures.
23. Tower of the Americas
Want your little ones to soak in one of the coolest views of San Antonio? Head up to the tippy-top of the Tower of the Americas, where the 750-foot tall observation platform offers a breathtaking city panorama.
But that’s not all: Once you’re back down, dive into a Texas-themed 4D movie and explore the gift shop stocked with San Antonio souvenirs. Psst… there’s even a Build A Bear workshop!
Talking money: It’s on the house for the tiny tots aged 3 and under. For the kiddos aged 4-12, it’s $12, while and military pay $13, and adults join in the fun for $16.50. Time to elevate your family outing game!
24. Natural Bridge Caverns
Calling all school-aged adventurers! The Natural Bridge Caverns are a total blast for kids. Heads up, though – the cave isn’t stroller-friendly, so if you’ve got little ones, be ready to carry them on this adventure.
Here’s the lowdown: Dive into Texas’ biggest show cave with guided tours, all lit up with world-class lighting. But wait, there’s more! Get lost in an outdoor maze, tackle a rails and ropes course, or try your hand at treasure mining.
As for the cost: Prices can change a bit, but it’s roughly $18 for the kiddos and $30 for the grown-ups. Time to unearth some family fun!
25. LEGOLAND Discovery Center
Attention, Lego enthusiasts and San Antonio visitors with kids! Gear up for the ultimate indoor Lego playground experience.
Here’s the scoop: Dive into attractions like a 4D Lego cinema, two awesome rides, and a mega Lego play zone where the little ones can both build and climb. But the real showstopper? Brace yourself for Miniland San Antonio – a jaw-dropping Lego replica of the entire city!
Pro tip: Grab a combo ticket and double the fun with entrance to SEA LIFE San Antonio, right next door.
Talking cash: It’s on the house for the tiny tots aged 2 and under. For the Lego-loving kiddos aged 3 and up, it’s $27. Time for a brick-tastic adventure!
26. Visit The Alamo (Or The Other 4 Missions)
The Alamo – a must-see spot in San Antonio! Even if your kids have already had a school field trip there (Texas kids probably have!), this historical landmark is worth a family visit.
Fun fact: San Antonio isn’t just home to The Alamo; there are actually FIVE MISSIONS here! You could even bike to all of them in a day. But hey, if you’re with kiddos, maybe stick to one or two missions, depending on their attention span.
No worries about cash: It won’t cost you a penny. Time for a bit of history and family fun!
27. Walk The Riverwalk
Sure, the Riverwalk in San Antonio is a bit touristy, but guess what? It’s actually kind of a blast, especially if you hit it up on a quiet weekday morning! And here’s a secret – kids dig it. Stroll along, soak in the waterside vibes, and hey, maybe treat yourselves to some Tex-Mex delights right there on the Riverwalk.
Quick tip: The heart of the Riverwalk is downtown, close to The Alamo. But get this – the whole Riverwalk is a whopping 15 miles long! That’s a ton of fun waiting for you.
Want a chill time without the crowds, pricey margaritas, and mariachi tunes? No worries, you can still enjoy the energy for free. Time for a riverside family adventure!
FAQs
Where can I take my kids in San Antonio?
San Antonio offers a variety of family-friendly attractions. Consider visiting the iconic San Antonio Zoo, exploring the interactive exhibits at The DoSeum (San Antonio’s Museum for Kids), enjoying a day at SeaWorld San Antonio, or taking a stroll along the scenic River Walk. Additionally, the Natural Bridge Caverns and the Witte Museum are great options for engaging and educational experiences suitable for children.
Is San Antonio good for kids?
Absolutely! San Antonio is a fantastic destination for families with kids. The city boasts numerous attractions catering to children, such as theme parks like SeaWorld, educational museums like The DoSeum, and outdoor spaces like Brackenridge Park. The welcoming atmosphere, diverse activities, and family-oriented events make San Antonio an excellent choice for a memorable family vacation.
What is San Antonio best known for?
San Antonio is best known for its rich history, cultural diversity, and iconic landmarks. The Alamo, a historic mission and site of a pivotal battle in the Texas Revolution, is a must-visit. The city is also famous for its vibrant and picturesque River Walk, where visitors can enjoy scenic walks, boat rides, and a variety of restaurants. Additionally, San Antonio is known for its Tex-Mex cuisine and lively festivals, such as Fiesta San Antonio.
How many days do you need in San Antonio?
To fully experience the diverse attractions and cultural offerings in San Antonio, it’s recommended to spend at least 3 to 4 days in the city. This allows time to visit major landmarks like the Alamo and explore the vibrant neighborhoods, museums, and outdoor spaces. If you plan to visit nearby attractions like SeaWorld or take a day trip to the Texas Hill Country, you may want to extend your stay to make the most of your time in San Antonio.
I’m Nicholas Clark, the creative soul behind “San Antonio Vista.” I’ve been bringing the city to life with stories and insights, and I want you to be a part of it. At San Antonio Vista, we’re all about making your exploration a masterpiece. Join me in the journey at San Antonio Vista, where every visit tells a unique story!
