San Antonio Things to Do – Attractions & Must See

San Antonio Things to Do

This city in Texas is a filled with incredible Spanish architecture, great food, and a lot of wonderful things to do.

Spanish Governor’s Palace

This 10-room Spanish Governor’s Palace is a rather impressive building, even today. In 1772, San Antonio was made the seat of the Spanish Government in Texas and the government was run out of this building. This is also where Moses Austin came to ask permission to settle a colony of U.S. citizens in Spanish Texas. This was the beginning of the settlement of Texas by the United States and led to the eventual formation of the Republic of Texas.

Buckhorn Saloon and Museum and the Texas Ranger Museum

The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum was privately owned by Albert Friedrich, and during this time the Buckhorn became a tourist attraction for its unique collections. Teddy Roosevelt and his Rough Riders were reputed to frequent the establishment. The Buckhorn Museum contains mounted wildlife from all over the world, including mammals, birds and fish. The animals represent over 520 species of wildlife, including fish from the seven seas and animals from every continent. In addition to a huge horn collection, you will find rattlesnake art, and memorabilia of both Native Americans and the cowboy culture. Some of the exhibits include The Carnival of Curiosities and The American Sideshow.

Housed in the same complex is the Texas Ranger Museum which features authentic Texas Ranger Division artifacts. The museum also features Ranger Town, a recreation of San Antonio at the turn of the century which includes a replica Buckhorn Saloon, jail cell, blacksmith shop and a replica of Bonnie and Clyde’s 1934 Ford V8 Deluxe getaway car.

McNay Art Museum

Those who enjoy modern art will appreciate a visit here as the museum does have some significant works of art such as paintings by Picasso. In addition to the exhibits, the museum itself is set in a mansion that is an architectural masterpiece. The grounds are also nice for exploring as there is also a nice and relaxing Japanese Garden. Walk around and explore the fish pond, small statues and also some benches so you can meditate and relax away the cares of the big city.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about things to do in San Antonio.