San Antonio is a vibrant city with plenty of exciting things to do. Learn about some of the best attractions that fly under the radar.
Are you planning a trip to San Antonio and eager to explore beyond the well-known attractions like the Alamo and the River Walk? You’re in luck! While these sites are undoubtedly worth a visit, there’s a world of hidden gems waiting to be discovered in this vibrant Texas city. From charming cafes to captivating natural wonders and cultural marvels, San Antonio has something special for every traveler. In this article, we’ll unveil five of our favorite hidden gems in San Antonio: the Alamo Cafe, The Quarry Golf Course, Natural Bridge Caverns, Witte Museum, and Brackenridge Park. So, get ready to embark on an adventure off the beaten path and experience the true essence of San Antonio.
Alamo Cafe
If it’s an exceptional eatery you’re after, look no further. You’ll enjoy plenty of delicious food when you dine on the River Walk, but one of the best places to enjoy authentic Mexican food in the city is outside of downtown.
Alamo Cafe is a local favorite, thanks to its amazing homemade tortillas and delicious queso. The dining space inside their original restaurant is massive, which is a good thing because they often draw large crowds. You’ll get a glimpse into the kitchen the minute you walk in, where you’ll see tortillas carefully made by hand. The fajitas are arguably their most popular dish, but they offer a full range of classic Mexican plates, including tacos and enchiladas. Their Highway 281 location is open seven days a week for lunch and dinner beginning at 10:45 a.m. Be sure to visit between 3 p.m. and 6 p.m. to enjoy various happy hour specials.
The Quarry Golf Course
444 E Basse Rd, San Antonio, TX 78209
There are several excellent golf courses in the San Antonio area, but locals and tourists alike continue to regard The Quarry Golf Course as one of the top choices. The back nine was built into a 100-year-old quarry pit, and the course has been featured in multiple publications, such as World Traveler Magazine and National Geographic. The end result is a unique layout and beautiful surrounding scenery that will take your breath away.
Many of the tee boxes are elevated so that you can take in the incredible views before you hit your shot. The course offers players the choice of three different tee boxes. From the back tees, the course measures 6,740 yards and plays as a par 71. The Quarry Golf Course is located near the Quarry entertainment district, and you’ll have several nearby dining options to choose from after you finish your round. You can also order a meal from the onsite restaurant and grill. During the peak golf season, you’ll often find live music playing near the large fire pit.
Natural Bridge Caverns
26495 Natural Bridge Caverns Rd, San Antonio, TX 78266
You’ll have the opportunity to zipline and explore multiple caves when you visit the Natural Bridge Caverns. The area was first explored in March of 1960 by multiple college students from nearby St. Mary’s University. They asked for an opportunity to explore the area and were granted permission. They were convinced that there was a large underground passage, and their fourth visit confirmed their suspicion. They eventually found a two-mile underground trail and returned home to report back to the landowners about what they found. Development quickly began on the first half mile, which is now the “Discovery Tour” that you can come and enjoy for yourself.
While most don’t know about the Natural Bridge Caverns when they first arrive in San Antonio, this is one of the most popular attractions in the entire state and one of the premier show caverns in the entire world. You can see this fantastic attraction for yourself, as long as the weather permits.
Witte Museum
3801 Broadway, San Antonio, TX 78209
The Witte Museum brings together nature, science, and culture in a way that provides guests with plentiful opportunities for both fun and learning. The museum draws more guests than any other museum in the city. The museum first opened in 1926 and has since welcomed hundreds of thousands of guests. You’ll find amazing artifacts and specimens inside the museum’s walls. The staff is committed to helping each guest discover their “aha” moment that leads to a greater appreciation for the unique humanity and culture of the state of Texas. They hope to inspire guests toward further exploration and learning. The museum is open seven days a week.
Brackenridge Park
3700 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212
The Brackenridge Park and Conservatory stretches across the San Antonio River near the San Antonio Zoo and the Japanese Tea Gardens. The park is featured in more than 200 photographs and postcards that you can see for yourself inside Lewis F. Fisher’s book “Brackenridge: San Antonio’s Acclaimed Urban Park.” The park is popular for its fishing ponds and jogging trails. It’s a haven for anyone who is craving an opportunity to get outside and enjoy the fresh air and sunshine. The park offers several ongoing programs and events, such as family fishing adventures, butterfly festivals, and fundraisers. The park also contains multiple softball fields and large pavilions that are available for rent.
FAQs About San Antonio’s Hidden Gems
Q: Are these hidden gems suitable for families with children?
A: Absolutely! Each of these hidden gems caters to visitors of all ages. The Witte Museum, for instance, offers engaging exhibits for children, while Brackenridge Park provides ample space for outdoor activities.
Q: How can I reach these hidden gems?
A: Most of these attractions are easily accessible by car or public transportation. Specific directions and transportation options can be found on their respective websites.
Q: Are there any entrance fees for these hidden gems?
A: While some attractions may have nominal entrance fees, others offer free or discounted admission on certain days or for specific groups. It’s always a good idea to check their websites for the latest information.
Q: Can I book guided tours in advance?
A: Yes, guided tours are available at Natural Bridge Caverns and can be booked in advance on their website. This ensures you have a spot reserved for your preferred time slot.
Q: Are there dining options available near these hidden gems?
A: Certainly! The Alamo Cafe, for example, is a fantastic dining option near downtown San Antonio. Additionally, Brackenridge Park has picnic areas where you can enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Q: Can I visit all these hidden gems in one day?
A: While it’s possible to visit all these attractions in a day, it may feel rushed. To fully enjoy and appreciate each hidden gem, consider allocating a separate day for each or select your top favorites based on your interests and time constraints.
Ready to get started?
If you’re thinking about moving to incredible San Antonio, the Tinsley Realty Group would love to help you shop for a luxury home in the area. They skillfully serve clients looking for new homes throughout the Texas Hill Country. This top-tier team takes great pride in educating their clients about the state of the local market and walking alongside them throughout the entire process, ensuring that their clients’ goals are achieved at every turn. Reach out to their office when you’re ready to take the next step and begin shopping for your new San Antonio luxury home.
*Header photo courtesy of Unsplash