TOP TEN REASONS TO VISIT SAN ANTONIO
San Antonio is quickly becoming one of the nation's top destinations for family
vacations. From SeaWorld to historical attractions like The Alamo, your family
will be sure to find something fun for everyone to enjoy. We've listed our picks
below of the top ten best attractions in San Antonio.
SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO
SeaWorld San Antonio, the world's largest marine life adventure park and
family entertainment showplace, presents a splashy lineup of more than
25 sensational shows, thrilling rides, animal attractions and educational
experiences for all ages. It's actually four parks in one on 250 acres: a
show park, a rides and slides park, a water park and an amazing animals
park. At SeaWorld San Antonio, there's something for everyone!
800-700-7786
THE ALAMO
On the east side of Alamo Plaza is the most famous spot in Texas where
189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, after repeated attacks by Mexican
General Santa Anna’s army. Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo)
was established in 1718 as the city’s first mission. The chapel, one of the
most photographed facades in the nation, and the Long Barracks are all
that remain of the original fort. Long Barracks Museum and Library are near
the chapel. The museum contains relics and mementos from the Republic
of Texas and offers narration on the fall of the Alamo. The Alamo is located
in the heart of the city, inside beautifully landscaped grounds. Hours: 9 a.m.
-5:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday. Closed December
24 and 25. Restricted hours March 6.General admission: donations
accepted. Special events for groups include before and after hours tours-
for more information call 210-225-1391 ext. 34. 210-225-1391 Fax: 210-
229-1343. e-mail: thealamo@thealamo.org
RIVER WALK (PASEO DEL RIO)
The Paseo del Rio, in the heart of downtown, is the pride of the city. Lush
green foliage lines the banks of this peaceful, historic river. Cobblestone
walkways lead visitors to the river-level restaurants and shops. The river
bubbles to the surface on the grounds of the University of the Incarnate
Word and flows to downtown and beyond, threading its way through the city
one level below the hustle and bustle of city streets. First called Yanaguana
by the Payaya Indians, meaning "place of refreshing waters." Along the
horseshoe shaped riverbend, the river is shaded by towering cypresses,
oaks and willows and bordered by gardens of flowering ornamental plants.
River cruisers travel the River Walk’s three miles past unique retail shops,
restaurants and nightclubs. See Yanaguana Cruises, listed alphabetically.
210-227-4262
IMAX THEATRE AT RIVERCENTER
849 E. Commerce, Rivercenter Mall, Street Level, Crockett Street Entrance
(78205) "Alamo - The Price of Freedom," is a 45-minute docudrama about
the 13-day siege and fall of the Alamo. Watch the battle unfold, where 189
defenders who fought and died for the cause of Texas liberty. Th immense
screen and magnetic stereo sound system places the viewer in the middle
of the action. Other IMAX features showing, Journey into the world of IMAX 3-
D images so real, you actually feel like you are inside the film. Hours: 9 a.
m. - 10 p.m., daily. Admission: adults $8.95; children (3-11) $5.50; senior
(65+) $7.95; groups (15 or more) adults $7.50; children (3-11) $4.75. 210-
247-4629 or 800-354-4629, Fax: 210-227-5432, www.imax-sa.com, E-
mail: info@imax-sa.com
SAN ANTONIO MARKET SQUARE-EL MERCADO
514 W. Commerce (78207) From early morning until late at night, Market
Square is alive with activity. Visitors browse through the 32 shops at "El
Mercado," an area patterned after an authentic Mexican market. In addition,
there are 80 specialty shops in Farmers Market Plaza. Market Square is
also the scene of many Hispanic festivals where food and beverage booths
spring up alongside the Guadalajara lamps and the strains of mariachi
music blend with the excitement of Mexican dances. Free admission.
Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m., summer; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., winter. Stores closed
Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter. 210-207-8600 Fax:
210-207-4287
SAN ANTONIO ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS AND AQUARIUM
3903 N. St. Mary’s st. (78212) (Brackenridge Park) Ranked as one of the
top zoos in the nation exhibiting over 3,500 animals of 751 species. At the
headwaters of the San Antonio River, the zoo encompasses 35
landscaped acres. Includes one of the largest bird collections in the world
and the only American zoo to exhibit the endangered whooping crane. A
new Gibbon Forest exhibit opened April 2001. The Conservation Research
Center exhibits the unique naked mole rat. Seasonal shows and
educational programs throughout the year. The zoo also offers boat rides.
Open 365 days a year. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. from Labor Day to Memorial
Day; 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission: adults $7;
seniors (62+) and children (3-11) $5; children 2 and under free. Group
rates available. 210-734-7183 Fax: 210-734-7291
BUCKHORN SALOON & MUSEUM
The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum is proud to have been voted "2002 Best
Attraction" by the Downtown Alliance/San Antonio. Discover more than 120
years of history.... Texas style . Marvel at two stories of the most exotic
collections you've ever seen, from our unique horn collection, to cowboy
memorabilia and fish from the Seven Seas. See a two headed calf and a
lamb with eight legs! test your hand in our authentic shooting gallery and
arcade. Don't miss the world's only Wax Museum of Texas History. And,
don't forget to swing by the Buckhorn Curio Store, where you'll find
extraordinary Texas collectibles and authentic Buckhorn souvenirs for the
entire family. Located a short two blocks from the Alamo and 50 feet from
the River Walk. Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or later, Sunday - Thursday; 10 a.m.
- 6 p.m. or later, Friday and Saturday. Call for exact closing times.
Admission: Adults $9.99; seniors $9.99; Children (ages 3 - 11) $7.50.
Special rates for group of 10 or more, and discounts for Military with
NATURAL BRIDGE WILDLIFE RANCH
www.nbwildliferanchtx.com.
Have you ever dreamed of going on an African Safari? Well ... Natural
Bridge Wildlife Ranch is your dream come true, only Texas Style. With
hundreds of animals from all over the world roaming freely in the
picturesque Texas Hill Country. Animals are enticed to come up for nose to
nose encounters with the complimentary feed given upon entrance. The
Petting Zoo and Walk-a-Bout areas are included in admission and
everyone is invited to travel through the Ranch as many times as they
would like during their visit. Admission is $12 for adults, $6 for children (3-
11 years) and $10 for seniors (65+). Texas' most visited safari park is open
daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended summer hours of 9 am to 6:30 pm
(Memorial Day-Labor Day). 830-438-7400.www.nbwildliferanchtx.com.
SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a theme park located in San Antonio that reflects
the heritage and culture of its Southwest roots. The park occupies
approximately 200 acres and feature numerous adult and children's rides.
Shows, thrilling rides and skill games are built around themes celebrating
Texas and the Southwest. Themed area: Los Festivales, a Hispanic village,
Crackaxle Canyon, an early western town; Spassburg, a German town; and
the 50's style Rocksville. Attractions include. "Scooby-Doo Ghostblasters...
The mystery of the Haunted Mansion, "a new, interactive, family, dark ride;
"Poltergeist," a twisting, spiraling LIM thrill coaster; "The Rattler," a classic
wooden roller coaster; "Superman Krypton Coaster," the largest steel and
floorless coaster in the southwest; "Scream," a 200 foot turbo drop ride,
"Lone Star Lagoon," a giant wave pool shaped in the likeness of the state
of Texas, and more. Shows include: "Circo Magnifico," "Teatro Fiesta,"
"Rockin' at Rockville High," Lone Star Spectacular" laser-light show and
many more. Fiesta Bay Boardwalk features a number of attractions
including a 90-foot Ferris wheel. The park features a kennel, lockers,
strollers, wheelchair rentals, and foreign currency exchange. It is one of the
most ADA accessible theme parks. www.sixflags.com or call
210-697-5050 or 800-473-4378.
SPLASHTOWN
With 18 landscaped acres of cool, clean water excitement, this family water-
park has something fun for every age - from Kids Kove to the Siesta del Rio
offering a relaxing ride down a lazy river to major water rides. StarFlight is
designed for space age thrills, plus there are new rides and attractions
throughout the park. No charge for tubes or life jackets. Free parking.
Hours: May and September open weekends, daily throughout summer.
Admission: adults $21.99; children (under 48" tall) $16.99; after 5:00 p.m.
$13.99 for everyone; seniors (65+) and toddlers under 2 free. Group rates
available. Special rates for school and church groups.
210/ 227-1400, www.splashtownsa.com
San Antonio is quickly becoming one of the nation's top destinations for family
vacations. From SeaWorld to historical attractions like The Alamo, your family
will be sure to find something fun for everyone to enjoy. We've listed our picks
below of the top ten best attractions in San Antonio.
SEAWORLD SAN ANTONIO
SeaWorld San Antonio, the world's largest marine life adventure park and
family entertainment showplace, presents a splashy lineup of more than
25 sensational shows, thrilling rides, animal attractions and educational
experiences for all ages. It's actually four parks in one on 250 acres: a
show park, a rides and slides park, a water park and an amazing animals
park. At SeaWorld San Antonio, there's something for everyone!
800-700-7786
THE ALAMO
On the east side of Alamo Plaza is the most famous spot in Texas where
189 defenders fell on March 6, 1836, after repeated attacks by Mexican
General Santa Anna’s army. Mission San Antonio de Valero (The Alamo)
was established in 1718 as the city’s first mission. The chapel, one of the
most photographed facades in the nation, and the Long Barracks are all
that remain of the original fort. Long Barracks Museum and Library are near
the chapel. The museum contains relics and mementos from the Republic
of Texas and offers narration on the fall of the Alamo. The Alamo is located
in the heart of the city, inside beautifully landscaped grounds. Hours: 9 a.m.
-5:30 p.m., Monday-Saturday; 10 a.m.-5:30 p.m. Sunday. Closed December
24 and 25. Restricted hours March 6.General admission: donations
accepted. Special events for groups include before and after hours tours-
for more information call 210-225-1391 ext. 34. 210-225-1391 Fax: 210-
229-1343. e-mail: thealamo@thealamo.org
RIVER WALK (PASEO DEL RIO)
The Paseo del Rio, in the heart of downtown, is the pride of the city. Lush
green foliage lines the banks of this peaceful, historic river. Cobblestone
walkways lead visitors to the river-level restaurants and shops. The river
bubbles to the surface on the grounds of the University of the Incarnate
Word and flows to downtown and beyond, threading its way through the city
one level below the hustle and bustle of city streets. First called Yanaguana
by the Payaya Indians, meaning "place of refreshing waters." Along the
horseshoe shaped riverbend, the river is shaded by towering cypresses,
oaks and willows and bordered by gardens of flowering ornamental plants.
River cruisers travel the River Walk’s three miles past unique retail shops,
restaurants and nightclubs. See Yanaguana Cruises, listed alphabetically.
210-227-4262
IMAX THEATRE AT RIVERCENTER
849 E. Commerce, Rivercenter Mall, Street Level, Crockett Street Entrance
(78205) "Alamo - The Price of Freedom," is a 45-minute docudrama about
the 13-day siege and fall of the Alamo. Watch the battle unfold, where 189
defenders who fought and died for the cause of Texas liberty. Th immense
screen and magnetic stereo sound system places the viewer in the middle
of the action. Other IMAX features showing, Journey into the world of IMAX 3-
D images so real, you actually feel like you are inside the film. Hours: 9 a.
m. - 10 p.m., daily. Admission: adults $8.95; children (3-11) $5.50; senior
(65+) $7.95; groups (15 or more) adults $7.50; children (3-11) $4.75. 210-
247-4629 or 800-354-4629, Fax: 210-227-5432, www.imax-sa.com, E-
mail: info@imax-sa.com
SAN ANTONIO MARKET SQUARE-EL MERCADO
514 W. Commerce (78207) From early morning until late at night, Market
Square is alive with activity. Visitors browse through the 32 shops at "El
Mercado," an area patterned after an authentic Mexican market. In addition,
there are 80 specialty shops in Farmers Market Plaza. Market Square is
also the scene of many Hispanic festivals where food and beverage booths
spring up alongside the Guadalajara lamps and the strains of mariachi
music blend with the excitement of Mexican dances. Free admission.
Hours: 10 a.m.-8 p.m., summer; 10 a.m.-6 p.m., winter. Stores closed
Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day and Easter. 210-207-8600 Fax:
210-207-4287
SAN ANTONIO ZOOLOGICAL GARDENS AND AQUARIUM
3903 N. St. Mary’s st. (78212) (Brackenridge Park) Ranked as one of the
top zoos in the nation exhibiting over 3,500 animals of 751 species. At the
headwaters of the San Antonio River, the zoo encompasses 35
landscaped acres. Includes one of the largest bird collections in the world
and the only American zoo to exhibit the endangered whooping crane. A
new Gibbon Forest exhibit opened April 2001. The Conservation Research
Center exhibits the unique naked mole rat. Seasonal shows and
educational programs throughout the year. The zoo also offers boat rides.
Open 365 days a year. Hours: 9 a.m.-5 p.m. from Labor Day to Memorial
Day; 9 a.m.-6 p.m., Memorial Day to Labor Day. Admission: adults $7;
seniors (62+) and children (3-11) $5; children 2 and under free. Group
rates available. 210-734-7183 Fax: 210-734-7291
BUCKHORN SALOON & MUSEUM
The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum is proud to have been voted "2002 Best
Attraction" by the Downtown Alliance/San Antonio. Discover more than 120
years of history.... Texas style . Marvel at two stories of the most exotic
collections you've ever seen, from our unique horn collection, to cowboy
memorabilia and fish from the Seven Seas. See a two headed calf and a
lamb with eight legs! test your hand in our authentic shooting gallery and
arcade. Don't miss the world's only Wax Museum of Texas History. And,
don't forget to swing by the Buckhorn Curio Store, where you'll find
extraordinary Texas collectibles and authentic Buckhorn souvenirs for the
entire family. Located a short two blocks from the Alamo and 50 feet from
the River Walk. Hours: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. or later, Sunday - Thursday; 10 a.m.
- 6 p.m. or later, Friday and Saturday. Call for exact closing times.
Admission: Adults $9.99; seniors $9.99; Children (ages 3 - 11) $7.50.
Special rates for group of 10 or more, and discounts for Military with
NATURAL BRIDGE WILDLIFE RANCH
www.nbwildliferanchtx.com.
Have you ever dreamed of going on an African Safari? Well ... Natural
Bridge Wildlife Ranch is your dream come true, only Texas Style. With
hundreds of animals from all over the world roaming freely in the
picturesque Texas Hill Country. Animals are enticed to come up for nose to
nose encounters with the complimentary feed given upon entrance. The
Petting Zoo and Walk-a-Bout areas are included in admission and
everyone is invited to travel through the Ranch as many times as they
would like during their visit. Admission is $12 for adults, $6 for children (3-
11 years) and $10 for seniors (65+). Texas' most visited safari park is open
daily from 9 am to 5 pm, with extended summer hours of 9 am to 6:30 pm
(Memorial Day-Labor Day). 830-438-7400.www.nbwildliferanchtx.com.
SIX FLAGS FIESTA TEXAS
Six Flags Fiesta Texas is a theme park located in San Antonio that reflects
the heritage and culture of its Southwest roots. The park occupies
approximately 200 acres and feature numerous adult and children's rides.
Shows, thrilling rides and skill games are built around themes celebrating
Texas and the Southwest. Themed area: Los Festivales, a Hispanic village,
Crackaxle Canyon, an early western town; Spassburg, a German town; and
the 50's style Rocksville. Attractions include. "Scooby-Doo Ghostblasters...
The mystery of the Haunted Mansion, "a new, interactive, family, dark ride;
"Poltergeist," a twisting, spiraling LIM thrill coaster; "The Rattler," a classic
wooden roller coaster; "Superman Krypton Coaster," the largest steel and
floorless coaster in the southwest; "Scream," a 200 foot turbo drop ride,
"Lone Star Lagoon," a giant wave pool shaped in the likeness of the state
of Texas, and more. Shows include: "Circo Magnifico," "Teatro Fiesta,"
"Rockin' at Rockville High," Lone Star Spectacular" laser-light show and
many more. Fiesta Bay Boardwalk features a number of attractions
including a 90-foot Ferris wheel. The park features a kennel, lockers,
strollers, wheelchair rentals, and foreign currency exchange. It is one of the
most ADA accessible theme parks. www.sixflags.com or call
210-697-5050 or 800-473-4378.
SPLASHTOWN
With 18 landscaped acres of cool, clean water excitement, this family water-
park has something fun for every age - from Kids Kove to the Siesta del Rio
offering a relaxing ride down a lazy river to major water rides. StarFlight is
designed for space age thrills, plus there are new rides and attractions
throughout the park. No charge for tubes or life jackets. Free parking.
Hours: May and September open weekends, daily throughout summer.
Admission: adults $21.99; children (under 48" tall) $16.99; after 5:00 p.m.
$13.99 for everyone; seniors (65+) and toddlers under 2 free. Group rates
available. Special rates for school and church groups.
210/ 227-1400, www.splashtownsa.com
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FAMILY TRAVEL FUN