Whether you’re on vacation for a week or are temporarily relocating for a job, San Antonio is a city that promises fun to its visitors. While there’s a lot to do in the city and surrounding area, certain experiences stand out as essential bucket list items. Keep reading to learn about the essential bucket list for a stay in San Antonio, TX so you don’t miss anything important on your visit.
Visit the Alamo
We’ve all heard the phrase “remember the Alamo,” but it’s a completely different experience to see the Alamo in person. Originally the home of Spanish missionaries, the Alamo was turned into a fort for soldiers. At the time, the area was still part of Mexico, but when Mexico gained its independence from Spain, and General Santa Anna took over the government, the Mexican and American settlers around San Antonio rebelled.
General Santa Anna massacred the rebels, but the lost battle inspired more Texans to fight against Santa Anna and stay independent of Mexico. Visiting this historic site is a way to honor those lives lost in the battle and learn about the history of Texas. Admission is free, and it’s open every day from 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m., except on Christmas Day.
Eat at the Chart House
The Chart House is a rotating seafood restaurant in the Tower of the Americas, which was built in 1968 for the World’s Fair. The views from the restaurant and the tower’s observation deck are spectacular, and guests interested in these views can even watch a 4D movie that takes you on a virtual tour across all of Texas. You can eat dinner here every day of the week between noon and 10 p.m. and enjoy a drink during happy hour from 4:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on weekdays. It’s an experience like no other and a meal you’re sure to never forget.
Watch the San Fernando Cathedral Light Show
Also called “The Saga,” the light show at San Fernando Cathedral is a beautiful experience unlike any other. Lights and pictures displayed on the surface of the cathedral with accompanying music show the history of San Antonio, Texas and the United States in a way you’ve never seen before. The show is free and happens year-round on Tuesday, Friday, Saturday, and Sunday evenings from 9 p.m. to 10 p.m. It lasts roughly 25 minutes, so you can choose to watch at 9, 9:30, or 10.
Tour San Antonio Missions National Historic Park
The San Antonio Missions National Historic Park is the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas. You can tour four different missions, all of which still hold church services for those who may want to attend. In addition to touring the missions, you can walk the park trails and experience the area’s wildlife. You can choose between a self-guided tour or a Ranger-led program.
Make sure to include the Alamo, the Chart House, the Saga, and San Antonio Missions National Historic Park on your essential bucket list for a stay in San Antonio, TX. And if you need somewhere to stay while enjoying these experiences, Corporate Comforts offers short-term rentals in San Antonio that will keep you comfortable whether you’re in the area for business, pleasure, or a combination of both.