Angry Skipper Reunion - May 14 - 18, 2025
Holiday Inn Riverwalk
217 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78205
Note: Our hotel is on the north end of the River Walk Riverbend Downtown Loop where St. Mary’s Street
crosses the river. Look for maps of restaurants, attractions, etc. posted all along the River Walk
Let's Have Some Fun in San Antonio!
San Antonio’s soul shines through its history, culture, and modern flair. The Alamo embodies Texan history, while the winding River Walk offers city-side tranquility. Spanish colonial missions whisper tales of faith, and trendy havens like The Pearl tantalize with culinary delights and artistic flair. It’s a city where the ghosts of heroes like Davy Crockett mingle with modern-day foodies, and where history buffs and thrill-seekers alike find their fix. Ultimately, San Antonio is best known for its unique blend of past and present, its culture, and its undeniable Texas charm, leaving no corner of your curiosity unexplored. (courtesy Old Town Trolley Tours)
Included below and on additional pages are suggestions & details for:
Take a look at the activities and information and let me know if you have questions.
Contact: Jim Garvin [email protected] 817-688-0731
Included below and on additional pages are suggestions & details for:
- Group Activities page CLICK HERE
- Dining Recommendations page CLICK HERE
- Transportation Options & Suggestions page CLICK HERE
- Fun things to do with friends & family (details below)
Take a look at the activities and information and let me know if you have questions.
Contact: Jim Garvin [email protected] 817-688-0731
Suggestions for Group Activities - Anyone Interested?
Mariachi Sip and Cruise - Fri., May 16, 7pm - 50 min cruise with Mariachi band. 2 drinks per person included . $61 per person. It's a public cruise so you just buy tickets online here: https://www.goriocruises.com/unique-cruises/
Paesanos Riverwalk Community Dining Cruise - Fri., May 16. 1.5 hr cruise w/dinner. Italian menu. Open to the public. $75 per person plus tax & tip. Book online here: https://www.paesanosriverwalk.com/river-cruises/
Find all the details on the Group Activities Page CLICK HERE
Contact Jim Garvin if you are interested or have questions at [email protected] or 817-688-0731. No commitment at this time but we need to get an estimate of interest so we can begin planning.
Paesanos Riverwalk Community Dining Cruise - Fri., May 16. 1.5 hr cruise w/dinner. Italian menu. Open to the public. $75 per person plus tax & tip. Book online here: https://www.paesanosriverwalk.com/river-cruises/
Find all the details on the Group Activities Page CLICK HERE
- Angry Skipper Annual Golf Game
- Mariachi Sip & Cruise - 50 min cruise
- Paesanos Italian Dinner Cruise - 1.5 hr
- The Saga Light Show at the San Fernando Cathedral
- Fort Sam Houston Museum & Quadrangle Group Tour (2-3 hr)
- Fort Cavazos (Hood) Day Trip - Museum, 1st Cav Memorial Chapel, gift shop - Thurs or Fri
- San Antonio Missions (4) - UNESCO World Heritage Site - Group Self-guided Tour
- Downtown Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - (1-3 hrs) Free
- Narrated Evening Ghost Tour
- Self-Guided Ghost Audio Tour 1 hr
- Ladies Day Shopping Trip to Boerne (5-6 hr)
Contact Jim Garvin if you are interested or have questions at [email protected] or 817-688-0731. No commitment at this time but we need to get an estimate of interest so we can begin planning.
Fun with Family & Friends
- OpGo Rio Riverboat Tours
- Historic Alamo - Hotel Menger - Crockett Hotel
- San Antonio Missions - UNESCO World Heritage Site
- Historic Market Square
- San Fernando Cathedral & The Saga Light Show
- Spanish Governor's Palace
- Tower of the Americas
- Riverwalk - shops, restaurants, historical sights
- The Ben Milam Bald Cypress
- La Villita - “Little Village”
- Historic Pearl District
- Shopping
- Museums
- Scenic Parks
- San Antonio Area - Sea World & Fiesta Texas
- Tours
- Discounts to attractions
- Things to do within 10-15 min walking distance of Holiday Inn Riverwalk
More details below for each item in the list above.
Go Rio River Walk Boat Cruises
Directions to GO RIO Dock #1 (5 min walk from our hotel): From the front of the hotel, turn right, cross the river, at the end of the bridge (at Crockett St) turn left & take the steps down to the river. Boat dock is at the bottom of the stairs. Address: 731 River Walk (River Level Aztec Theater @ Crockett & St. Mary's St.) https://www.goriocruises.com/
4 types of river cruises:
1. Narrated River Tour - 35 min - public (see more details below)
2. River Shuttle - every 60 min - public (see more details below)
3. Mariachi Sip & Cruise - 50 min - public (see more details below)
4. Paesanos Dinner Cruise - 1.5 hr - public (see more details below)
1. Go Rio River Walk Narrated River Cruise (public)
35-minute narrated tour connecting you to the “Soul of San Antonio”, the city's culture, history, architecture, and charm. Daily 10am - 10pm, every 15 to 20 minutes. Veterans & wives - $12.50 ea (show ID). Reservations are not necessary for public narrated cruises. Tickets are not time specific and depart the docks every 15 minutes. Buy tickets online, at any Go Rio ticket booth, or on the boat. All barges are ADA-accessible.
Ticket booths and boarding dock locations:
(A) Historia - 706 River Walk (Under Market St. Bridge & Alamo St.) – across from Hilton Palacio del Rio
(B) Rivercenter - 849 E River Walk (Commerce & Bowie St.) – River level
(C) Aztec Theater - 731 River Walk (River Level Aztec Theater – Crockett & St. Mary's St.)
(D) Beverage Bar and Retail Location - 809 E. River Walk - (River level)
2. Go Rio River Shuttles (public) - No narration. Runs along the River Walk from downtown north to The Pearl Brewery entertainment center. Hop On/Hop Off at 15 designated stops along the River Walk. Look for the GO RIO Shuttle signs and boats labeled as GO RIO SHUTTLE.
1-day pass $21.50. Daily from 12 - 8pm, about every 60 minutes. Buy tickets on the boat or any Go Rio ticket booth. All barges are ADA-accessible.
Shuttle schedules: https://shorturl.at/kdc33
Track the shuttle live here: https://shorturl.at/ylk67
3. Mariachi Sip and Cruise - Fri, May 16, 7pm. 50 min cruise, includes mariachis and 2 drinks. $61 per person. It's a public cruise so you just buy tickets online here: https://www.goriocruises.com/unique-cruises/
4. Paesanos Dinner Cruise - Fri, May 16. 1.5 hr cruise w/dinner, Italian menu. $75 per person plus tax & tip. Open to the public. Book your tickets online here: https://www.paesanosriverwalk.com/river-cruises/
Historic Alamo - Hotel Menger - Crockett Hotel
The Alamo - Mission San Antonio de Valero
https://www.thealamo.org/visit/whats-at-the-alamo
Site of the famous battle between the Republic of Texas and Mexico on Mar 6, 1836.The battle is of historical importance to Texans, and is a state and national landmark. Historic buildings, artifacts, dramatic living history, film, peaceful gardens, guided group or private tours, new exhibitions, audio tours, augmented reality tour, and more. Spend an hour or spend the day. Interesting fact: While under siege by the Mexican Army, John E. Garvin heroically left the Alamo and returned later with reinforcements. All were killed in battle 5 days later on March 6. To visit the inside of the Alamo church, book a free timed entry online HERE: https://www.thealamo.org/plan-your-visit/
Alamo History https://www.thealamo.org/remember
Free Alamo history podcast https://www.thealamo.org/podcast
Free audiotour https://www.worldheritagesa.com/Missions/The-Alamo/Alamo-Audio-Tour
Admission to the Alamo Church & grounds are free. Some optional tours and exhibits may require extra cost.
Open daily 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
300 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio
Distance from our hotel: 10 min walk; 4 min by car
The Menger Hotel - a short walk from the Alamo
204 Alamo Plaza, San Antonio
After the Alamo, visit the adjacent historic and elegant Menger Hotel, the oldest continuously operating hotel west of the Mississippi, where Theodore Roosevelt recruited his Rough Riders in the historic Menger Bar. Elegant Victorian lobby, Spanish courtyard garden, & restaurant.
Historical self-guided walking tour of the hotel here: https://shorturl.at/h9sUM
Crockett Hotel - a short walk from the Alamo
320 Bonham, San Antonio
Site of original Alamo battlefield and beloved historic landmark. On the night before the Battle of the Alamo, hundreds of troops moved into the area where the hotel's pool now stands. Davy Crockett and his men defended the southeast palisade, cementing the hotel's connection to this pivotal moment in Texas history.
Marvel at the interior of the hotel, where the charm of Texas fills the historic atrium. Visitors enjoy the brilliant architecture to the carefully curated collection of Texas-inspired art. The hotel’s artwork highlights key moments from the Alamo and honors Davy Crockett, the legendary figurehead for whom the hotel is named. Known as the "King of the Wild Frontier," Crockett’s larger-than-life persona and enduring legacy shine through in the displays throughout the hotel.
Crockett Tavern restaurant (steaks, salmon, chicken, burgers, salads, etc.), Whiskey, Moonshine, Happy Hour 3-6pm.
San Antonio Missions (4) - UNESCO World Heritage Site
https://www.nps.gov/saan/index.htm
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park - historic Spanish colonial architecture more than 250 years old along with the stories of people who lived in the 4 Spanish missions in the 1700s.
Open daily 9a - 5p. Admission to all 4 missions is free.
Free audiotours of each mission here:
https://www.worldheritagesa.com/Missions/Mission-San-Jos-eacute/San-Jos-eacute-Audio-Tour
Free guided tours daily 10a, 11a, 2:30p (no reservations required)
More tour info: https://www.nps.gov/saan/planyourvisit/guided-programs.htm
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park has four distinct visitor areas, each about 2.5 miles from the next mission. It is very easy to drive from mission to mission, and free parking is available at each mission site. Exploring all four missions can take anywhere from 3-4 hours, depending on your pace and interest in delving deeper into each site’s history and architecture.
Mission Concepción, 807 Mission Road. Closest to the city. Original buildings, architectural features, and frescoes. Established 1731. One of the oldest unrestored stone churches in the U.S.
Mission San José, 6701 .San José Drive. Known as the “Queen of the Missions”. The most complete and reconstructed mission in the park. Established 1720. Visitor Center nearby.
Mission San Juan, 9101 Graf Road. Mission & original farm fields irrigated by an acequia. Established 1731.
Mission Espada, 10040 Espada Road. The park’s southern-most mission. Established 1731.
Missions are 3-6 mi south of our hotel - 20 min by car, Uber, taxi
VIA bus services from downtown to Mission Concepcion and Mission San Jose. Details on Transportation page HERE.
Map, directions, & transportation. https://www.nps.gov/saan/planyourvisit/directions.htm
Missions brochure https://www.nps.gov/saan/planyourvisit/upload/SAAN_Brochure-Both-sides-Bilingual.pdf
Historic Market Square
514 Commerce St., San Antonio
Enjoy the sights and flavors of old Mexico at Historic Market Square, a favorite of locals and tourists for generations. This three-block outdoor plaza lined with shops, and restaurants is the largest Mexican market in the U.S., filled with colorful stalls overflowing with traditional Mexican artisan wares such as hand-woven blankets, clothing, jewelry, pottery, decor, and more. Experience the rhythm of traditional mariachi music and impromptu folk dancers while enjoying the authentic Tex-Mex fare at cafes and bustling food stalls. Mi Tierra and La Margarita restaurants and the Farmers Market Food Court are local favorites. Don't miss this San Antonio gem!
https://www.visitsanantonio.com/listing/historic-market-square/1678/
From our hotel: 15 min walk, 5 min by car, Old Town Trolley Stop
San Fernando Cathedral & The Saga Light Show (great for an evening group outing)
115 Main Plaza
From our hotel: 5 min by car, 10 min walk
9am - 5pm Free (Saga Light Show 9:00pm & 9:30 Free)
https://sfcathedral.org/
San Fernando Cathedral - the oldest standing church building in Texas dates back to the 1730s and is a majestic 18th-century landmark, standing as a testament to faith and history. Its soaring walls, adorned with intricate stained-glass windows, have witnessed centuries of worship, whispers of revolution, and even the final resting place of Texas legends. Beneath the cool stone floor lie the remains of early governors, influential figures in the fight for Texan independence, frontiersman Davy Crockett’s wife, Rebecca, notable figures like the “Father of Texas,” empresario Stephen F. Austin, and governors who shaped the early years of the Lone Star State. Explore the grandeur, delve into the history, and feel the weight of centuries beneath your feet – San Fernando Cathedral is a must-visit for anyone seeking a glimpse into the heart and soul of San Antonio.
The Saga Light Show - outdoor
Showtimes: Tuesday through Sunday at 9 PM & 9:30 PM. Rain or shine.
An explosion of color, light, music and historical images splashed over the facade of one of the city’s beloved San Fernando Cathedral. This awe-inspiring 24-minute video art projection shares the story of the land, water, people, battles, and development of San Antonio, the Lone Star State, and United States history. The Saga projection covers 7,000 square feet of light, color and visual narration projected onto the majestic façade of San Fernando Cathedral- the oldest continuously operating cathedral in the United States.
Spanish Governor's Palace
105 Plaza des Armas
Tuesday - Saturday: 9 am - 5 pm, Sunday: 10 am - 5 p, Monday: Closed
A National Historic landmark, the Spanish Governor's Palace, the last visible trace of the Presidio San Antonio de Bexar and the only remaining example in Texas of an aristocratic 18th-century Spanish Colonial town house. Explore the grand halls and courtyards of this 18th-century palace, imagining the intrigues that unfolded within its walls. Learn about the lives of governors who shaped San Antonio’s early history, and witness the blend of Spanish and Mexican architectural styles that reflects the city’s cultural heritage. Upon its completion in 1749, the house served as the Commandancia, or residence and working office, of the Captain of the Presidio. Later, it became the home of the Spanish governors who lived in San Antonio. Today, the only building that still stands of the Presidio San Antonio Bexar is the Spanish Governor's Palace. It is one of the oldest residential buildings still standing in Texas.
Distance from our hotel: 10 min walk, 5 min by car
Tower of the Americas
739 E Cesar E. Chavez Blvd, San Antonio
https://www.toweroftheamericas.com/location/tower-of-the-americas/
(210) 223-3101
Sun - Thu: 10:00am - 10:00 pm , Fri - Sat: 10:00am - 11:00pm
Adults: $19.50 Seniors & Military: $16.00
An exciting portal to panoramic vistas and immersive experiences! Ascend to a stunning 750-foot vantage point atop this iconic needle, built as the centerpiece of the original site of the 1968 World’s HemisFair, a cultural fair to celebrate “the confluence of civilizations in the Americas” and the City of San Antonio’s cultural diversity. Enjoy stunning 360-degree city views, stretching from the winding River Walk to the distant Texas Hill Country. Enjoy interactive exhibits and indulge in a delicious meal at the rotating Chart House restaurant or enjoy the new Tower Grove Restaurant or lighter fare at the Tower Cafe.
- 750 ft high Observation Deck
- interactive exhibits that bring San Antonio’s history and culture to life.
- Flags Over Texas Observation Deck
- 4D Theatre Ride - Skies Over Texas, Angry Birds, or Mowgli’s Adventure
- Tower Cafe
- Bar 601 - Happy Hour with a bird's-eye view of San Antonio. Mon-Fri 4:30 pm-7 pm.
- Chart House restaurant - atop the tower - Steaks, seafood, etc
- Tower Grove Restaurant - garden setting at the base of the Tower - steak, fish, burgers, etc. Sun - Thu: 11:00pm - 9:00pm, Fri-Sat until 10:00pm
- Tower Cafe - grab-and-go snacks, soft drinks, and light bites (located at the base of the Tower)
- Gift Shop
- Special Event: Sat., May 17 - Wine Fest: Tastings, music, games, etc. 2:00 - 5:00pm $55
Paseo del Rio - The River Walk - shops, restaurants, historical sights
The San Antonio River Walk is a 15-mile-long pedestrian pathway that winds its way through the heart of the city, lined with lush landscaping, towering cypress trees, charming shops, and world-class restaurants. You can take a river tour, go shopping, enjoy a meal, or more.
Official guide to all things San Antonio River Walk: https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/
River Walk Full Map https://shorturl.at/kjxsm
Three main sections of the River Walk:
1. Riverbend Downtown Loop - a 2.5 mile stretch of a bend in the San Antonio River, beautifully landscaped waterfront that features many of San Antonio's most spectacular hotels, restaurants, night clubs, bars, shopping centers, riverboat tours, historical tours, and sightseeing activities. Excellent site for planning purposes: https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/
- Note: Our hotel is on the NORTH end of the Riverbend Downtown Loop where St. Mary’s Street crosses the river. Holiday Inn Riverwalk, 217 N St Mary's St, San Antonio, TX 78205
- Directions - 2 min walk: exit the front of our hotel, turn right (south), at the bridge, take steps (on the right) down to the river. You may also access the river from the rear exit of the hotel.
- Riverbend Downtown Loop Map https://shorturl.at/BlUP2
2. River Walk - Museum Reach - Discover brilliant public art works, historical landmarks, museums, and even a colony of Mexican free-tailed bats along this hub of economic and cultural growth. Noted landmarks including the oldest VFW post in Texas, the San Antonio Museum of Art, and the Pearl, a culinary and cultural destination at the reimagined historic Pearl brewery. Cruise the reach on one of San Antonio’s famous river barges. The Lock and Dam complex at Brooklyn Ave raises and lowers barges approximately nine feet to allow travel north to the Pearl. From April to October, a colony of roughly 60,000 Mexican Free-tailed bats reside under the I-35 bridge. Their evening departures are natural spectacle not be missed.
- Directions - exit the rear of our hotel, take steps down to the river, turn right (north)
- Details: https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/things-to-do/explore-by-area/museum-reach/
- River Walk Museum Reach Map https://www.sa.gov/files/assets/main/v/1/deia/musuem-reach-ada-map.pdf
3. River Walk - Mission Reach - A relaxed and popular section of the River Walk heads south of downtown, through the beautifully preserved Victorian homes and charming streets of the King William Historic District (1 mi s), through lovely Roosevelt Park (2.5 mi s), and on to environmentally educational Confluence Park (3 mi s), home to the confluence of the San Antonio and San Pedro Creek. For those with energy to spare, head all the way south to the UNESCO San Antonio Mission San Jose (about 6 miles from our hotel). Then Uber back! :-)
- Directions - exit the rear of our hotel, take steps down to the river, turn left (south)
- Details: https://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/things-to-do/explore-by-area/mission-reach/
- River Walk Mission Reach Map https://shorturl.at/VdqGX
The Ben Milam Bald Cypress - right around the corner.
This huge, historic tree is the center of an intriguing glimpse into Texas history. Ben Milam was a beloved Texas hero in the battle for independence from Mexico. In Dec. 1835, prior to the battle of the Alamo (Mar 1836), Ben Milam challenged other soldiers to follow him into San Antonio to defeat the Mexican army. He famously made his call to arms, asking, “Who will go with old Ben Milam into San Antonio?” Three hundred men answered his call and rushed into battle with the Mexicans.. But, as the legend goes, two days later, Ben Milam was killed by a Mexican sniper who hid in this tree.
https://sanantonioreport.org/heritage-tree-the-ben-milam-bald-cypress/
Directions: 2 min walk - exit the rear of the hotel, take the stairs down to the river, turn left. Tree is on the corner of the river.
La Villita - “Little Village”
La Villita occupies one square block in the heart of downtown San Antonio. This captivating barrio dates back to the 18th century, making it over 300 years old. La Vallita is on the U.S. government’s National Register of Historic Places as a Historic District. Look for commemorative markers placed throughout the village to learn more about each building’s history. Although the “little village” now wears the hat of a cultural art hub, it has served as home, refuge, and opportunity for people throughout the ages. Enjoy boutique-style shopping, artisan finds, and makers galore. La Villita caters to all – whether you’re a history enthusiast, an adventurous foodie, or simply seeking a delightful escape, this 300-year-old village promises a captivating, immersive experience. https://www.lavillitasanantonio.com/History
Location: bordered by the south bank of the River Walk, S. Presa St., E. Nueva St., & S. Alamo St.
Distance from our hotel: 10 min walk, 5 min by car
Historic Pearl District
303 Pearl Parkway
Hours: 5am - midnight
Explore the vibrant Pearl, home of the original Pearl Beer brewery and now a culinary and cultural destination just north of the River Walk on the Museum Reach. Free historic tours at 10am and noon. Walk along river, stroll through the historic Pearl Brewery complex, sample local brews, enjoy live music at Jazz, TX, and indulge in delectable treats at the wide variety of restaurants, bakeries, coffee shops and bars. With over two dozen eating and drinking establishments at the Pearl, there’s truly something for everyone. From quick service to white linen, ramen to Santa Maria steak grilled over an open fire, your cravings will surely be satisfied. Menus, prices, & reservations: https://atpearl.com/eat/
https://havingfuninthetexassun.com/2017/07/29/10-reasons-you-must-visit-the-pearl-san-antonio/
Distance from our hotel: 10 min by car, 35 min walk, or take the Go Rio Riverboat!
Shopping
River Walk - Riverbend Downtown Loop - unique boutiques and local specialty shops. Handcrafted jewelry, vibrant textiles, clothing, gifts.
Distance from our hotel: 5 min walk (see River Walk section)
Shops at River Center - conventional mall shopping located on the River Walk, Near the Alamo.
849 Commerce St., San Antonio 10am - 8pm
Distance from our hotel: 10 min walk, 6 min by car
La Villita - Art district. Boutique-style shopping, diverse local artists and visionary artisans.
Shops and galleries feature local, original, handcrafted keepsakes, contemporary jewelry, locally-designed fashions, and more. Folk art lines colorful shop windows and cobblestone streets break way to inviting, tree-shaded courtyards. See more info above.
418 Villita St, San Antonio (adjacent to the River Walk Riverbend Downtown Loop)
Distance from our hotel: 10 min walk, 3 min by car
Historic Market Square - Large, traditional Mexican market with local curios, hand-woven blankets, jewelry, clothing, gifts,collectibles, food, etc.
514 Commerce St, San Antonio
Distance from our hotel: 15 min walk, 5 min by car
Ladies Day Shopping Trip to Boerne
See all the details on the Group Activities page HERE
Museums
Witte Museum
3801 Broadway, San Antonio https://www.wittemuseum.org/
Historic artifacts and photographs, Texas art, dinosaur exhibit, cave drawings, Texas wildlife dioramas, and nationally acclaimed traveling exhibits.
Admission: $14 adults, $13 adults 65+
Distance from our hotel: 10 min by car, 1 hr walk
Buckhorn Saloon & Texas Ranger Museum
318 E. Houston Street, San Antonio https://www.buckhornmuseum.com/
This historic 118 year old saloon, with one of a kind oddities and western memorabilia was once frequented by Texas Ranger legends. It now houses a museum with exhibits on cowboy culture, firearms, and the legacy of the Texas Rangers. Café menu: Burgers, sandwiches, pork, chicken entrees, salads, etc.
Museum tickets: $22.99 ea (includes both Buckhorn Museum & the Texas Ranger Museum.)
Admission not required to visit the Buckhorn Saloon, Cafè, Gift Shop or the Arcade. Ask us about discounts available for seniors, military and AAA members.
Museum & Gift Shop: 10:00am - 5:00pm
Cafe: 11:00am - 3:00pm
Saloon: 10:00am - 6:00pm - (Happy Hour 4:00pm - 6:00pm)
Distance from our hotel: 2 min by car, 5 min walk
Briscoe Western Art Museum
210 W Market St, San Antonio (on the River Walk)
https://briscoemuseum.org/
10:00am - 5:00pm (Thurs until 8:00pm)
Modern museum housing art & artifacts reflecting the history & culture of the American West.
Seniors $14
Distance from our hotel: 3 min by car, 10 min walk.
Fort Sam Houston Quadrangle and Museum
https://www.history.army.mil/museums/fieldMuseums/FSHMuseum/index.html#gallery
1405 E Grayson St, Fort Sam Houston, TX
Free 10am - 4pm M-F
Located in the historic Quadrangle, the Fort Sam Houston Museum tells the story of Fort Sam Houston from its beginning in 1845 as the Post at San Antonio to the present day. It also highlights the close relationship between the Post and San Antonio -- "Military City, USA" -- with roots extending back to the Spanish presidio of 1718. Fort Sam Houston is one of the oldest active Army posts in America.To visit, enter through the access gate on Walters Street, north of Interstate 35. Stop at the Visitor Center on Walters Street. All visitors 18 years or older must present a picture ID card. If you have any access questions, call the Visitor's Center at 210-221-2651.
Distance from our hotel: 15 min by car or Uber
3 Airman Heritage Museums - at JBSA Lackland:
Enlisted Heritage Museum
Thurs 10:30am - 5:30pm / Fri 9:00am - 3:00pm / Sat 10:00am - 2:00pm
5206 George Ave, JBSA Lackland AFB 78236
210-671-3055
Distance from our hotel: 25 min by car
Security Forces Museum
Thurs 10:30am - 5:30pm / Fri 9:00am - 3:00pm
1300 Femoyer St, JBSA Lackland AFB 78236
210-671-3055
Distance from our hotel: 25 min by car
Airpark Museum
41 aircraft (outdoors) spanning 8 decades
Located just beyond the Luke East Visitor Center.
Mon-Sat Open daylight hours
Distance from our hotel: 20 min by car
US citizens with a valid state/government issued I.D. should stop at the Luke East Visitor Control Center and request a pass to visit the museum.
Vietnam Army Grunts Museum - free, donations accepted
Small museum. 17 miles north of our hotel
499 Pond Hill Rd Suite 1, San Antonio, TX 78231
10am - 5pm M-F
https://vietnamgrunts.org/
Distance from our hotel: 25 min by car
Texas Air Museum https://www.texasairmuseum.org/
1234 99th Street, San Antonio
Large and varied collection of aircraft, vehicles, uniforms, weapons, and other artifacts that are unique and historical. Of particular note are Katherine Stinson's Bleriot, and many aircraft from the early days of flight.
Tues- Sat 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Admission Fees: General ($6), Senior (55+)($5)
Distance from our hotel: 20 min by car
San Antonio Museum of Art
200 W Jones Ave, San Antonio
https://www.samuseum.org/
10:00am - 5:00pm (Fri until 7:00pm)
Adults $17
Located on the River Walk, the highly regarded Museum of Art has large collections of ancient art from around the world. Mediterranean art to contemporary works.
Distance from our hotel: 6 min by car, 30 min walk
Holocaust Museum https://www.hmmsa.org/
Mon - Thurs 9AM - 3PM, Friday 9AM - 1PM, Sun 1PM - 4PM
12500 NW Military Hwy, San Antonio
(210) 302-6807
Distance from our hotel: 25 min by car
Scenic Parks
Brackenridge Park
Free - 5am - 11pm daily
531 Brackenridge Way, San Antonio https://www.brackenridgepark.org/visit-the-park/things-to-see-and-do
Often referred to as the most culturally significant park in the U.S., this 400-acre park is an important natural area in the heart of San Antonio. With two miles of the San Antonio River running through it, Brackenridge has a legacy of Indigenous roots, Spanish colonial dams and irrigation, Civil War industry, and infrastructure shaped by the Works Progress Administration.
Home to San Antonio Zoo, Japanese Tea Garden, Brackenridge Eagle Miniature Train, Witte Museum (Texas history, dinosaur fossils, Native American artifacts, Alamo treasures, etc.), San Antonio Botanical Gardens, historic structures, 18 hole golf course, walking trails, Headwaters Sanctuary of the San Antonio River.
Distance from our hotel: 15 min by car
San Pedro Springs Park
Established in 1729 by a grant from the king of Spain; it's the second-oldest municipal park in Texas (est 1729) and one of the oldest municipal parks in the United States. Enjoy this lovely park located between North Flores Street and San Pedro Avenue. Rich in history, the park was the site of several military encampments during the Mexican War, and the U.S. Army temporarily stabled camels there in 1856. Today the park comprises 46 acres of land and has a swimming pool, tennis center, and the San Pedro Playhouse, which hosts live theater.
Distance from our hotel: 10 min by car, 45 min walk
Veterans Memorial Park
100 Auditorium Cir, San Antonio
Distance from our hotel: 10 min walk, 5 min by car
San Antonio Botanical Gardens
555 Funston Pl.
8am - 6pm daily
$15 ages 14+, $13 military & students w/ID, $12 ages 3-13, free under 3. Wheelchairs available on request. 38-acre living museum of native and imported plants.
www.sabot.org
Distance from our hotel: 15 min by car
San Antonio Area
Six Flags Fiesta Texas Amusement Park
https://www.sixflags.com/fiestatexas
In honor of your service a one-day admission discount is extended to all active and retired military, online purchase only.
$35 https://www.sixflags.com/fiestatexas/military-first-responder
Address: 17000 IH-10 West, San Antonio, TX 78257
Directions: I-10 West and Loop 1604. Take exit 555, La Cantera Parkway.
Distance from our hotel: 20 minutes by car
Sea World
https://seaworld.com/san-antonio/
Veterans go free! (all other adults $51.95) Marine shows & water amusement park.
10500 SeaWorld Drive
San Antonio, TX 78251
10:30am - 6:00pm
Distance from our hotel: 25 minutes by car
Guided Tours
Old Town Trolley Tours
Explore iconic landmarks, from the historic Alamo to the vibrant Pearl district, with the flexibility to hop on and off at your own pace. 12 stops with entertaining live narration that includes little known facts and behind-the-scenes tips. Ticket is good for 2 days. One hour, 40 minutes from start to finish but hop off and on as often as you like. Trolley stops typically every 20 minutes. Free app.
9:00 am - 4:00 pm Daily Adult/Children - $49.31 (for 2 days). No senior discount.
https://www.trolleytours.com/san-antonio#todo-section
Grayline San Antonio tours - 5 tours to choose from: city, missions, & regional
https://graylinesa.com/tour-search/
Narrated Evening Ghost Tour - Anyone interested in a fun evening out together on a ghost tour? Several options are available: walking tours, bus tours, haunted history tours, haunted pub crawl, haunted dinner tour, and more. Prices vary. Find a great tour here on Viator: https://shorturl.at/rkmQz
Invite your buddies and let us know so we can promote this tour to the entire group.
Self-guided Walking Tours
Self-Guided Ghost Audio Tour - from Viator
Experience something new in San Antonio on a private, self-guided audio tour. An exclusive tour for you and your party of friends or family, enjoy the fun narration, music, and GPS navigation. Go on a walk that reveals the chilling stories of downtown's famous ghosts. No need to rush—start whenever you like and take breaks for drinks or to soak in the atmosphere. Visit the spooky ghost downtown of San Antonio; listen to their stories. Tour Alamo Plaza and Cenotaph, Majestic and Empire Theatres, and more. Learn the ghost stories of Menger Hotel, 114 Main Plaza, and Main Plaza. Go at your pace and schedule; listen to the audio tour again anytime. Let us know if you’re interested in a group tour.
$9.75 1 hour Purchase on Viator. https://shorturl.at/roK3z
Download app to your phone. Enjoy with friend & family!
Downtown Self-Guided Audio Walking Tour - (1-3 hrs) Free
https://www.smart-guide.org/destinations/en/san-antonio/
We’ll download the app on the link above for a great self-guided audio walking tour of downtown San Antonio. Spend a hour or more enjoying the historic & cultural sights of San Antonio.
Historic River Walk Tour https://www.hugmantour.com/ Free
Find local tours, attractions, and activities
Get Your Guide https://www.getyourguide.com/san-antonio-l892/
Viator https://www.viator.com/San-Antonio/d910-ttd
Discounts to attractions
San Antonio City Pass
Discounted rates on multiple sightseeing locations/activities. $59
https://shorturl.at/1mMOL
Visitor Alliance
https://savisitoralliance.com/marketing/
Go City
https://shorturl.at/nbq33
Things to do within 10-15 min walking distance of Holiday Inn Riverwalk. See each listing above for more details.
- Go Rio Riverboat Cruise
- Ben Milam Bald Cypress
- River Walk - restaurants, shops, historical sightseeing, activities
- River Walk - Museum Reach and/or Mission Reach
- Alamo Mission, Hotel Menger & Crockett Hotel
- Buckhorn Saloon & Museum
- San Fernando Cathedral tour and The Saga Light Show
- Spanish Governor’s Palace
- Historic Market Square
- Tower of Americas
- Self-Guided Walking Tours