San Antonio, Texas has earned the nickname Military Town USA for its bursting with pride patriotism, multiple military bases, veteran, and milspouse employment initiatives and military history dating back for centuries. Chances are, you’ll have the pleasure of staying in San Antonio for one reason or another during your time in the military, and luckily there are tons of things to see, do and eat during your stay. Staying In our San Antonio Crashpad? Here’s our mini guide to help you explore the area like a PRO.
Explore the San Antonio Area
This quaint river town is bursting with activities fit for the entire family. Whether you’re in town for an extended TDY or PCSing to the area, you’ll be pleasantly surprised with all that San Antonio has to offer. The following are a list of must see San Antonio Attractions:
- SeaWorld San Antonio – SeaWorld San Antonio is the perfect amusement park day trip suitable for the entire family. With the Waves of Honor program, Military families are allowed free tickets once a year for up to 4 members. (Why SeaWorld’s Waves of Honor Program Should Be On Your Milfamily Bucket List)
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas – Six flags is another family style amusement park. Discount Tickets can be found on base at MWR and ITT counters.
- Tower of the Americas – This unique observation tower offers a 360 view of San Antonio. Other attractions inside include fine dining, souvenir shopping, a movie theatre and more. Military members and families can get up to $2 off admission.
- The Alamo – This 18th-century roman catholic mission holds the strong military history of San Antonio in the palm of its hands. It serves as a great historical outing for all members of the family and is free admission excluding guided or audio tours.
- San Antonio Riverwalk – San Antonio’s Riverwalk has picturesque miles of shopping, dining, and scenery. Riverboat tours and concerts are offered at a discounted rate for military members.
For more San Antonio attractions, see Visit San Antonio’s Website here.
Immerse in Culture and History
San Antonio is full of cultural experiences that represent its Spanish roots. During your stay in San Antonio, be sure to visit these neighborhoods and historic districts.
- La Villita is a historical art village. Here you’ll find unique cultural souvenirs, shops, dining options, and imported Mexican arts and crafts.
- Market Square is a historical district that feels like you’ve stepped into Mexico. It is the largest Mexican market in the United States. There are three blocks worth of Mexican folk artistry, live music, traditional restaurants, and Mexican street food eateries.
- The Historic Pearl is a unique experience that ties historic San Antonio into modern amenities and shopping. The beautiful site is the home of the historic bottling company. Nowadays, this contemporary area houses tons of shops and boutiques, fantastic food options, green parks/play places, an amphitheater and farmers market.
Food with a View
Chart House Restaurant is a fine dining restaurant atop the Towers of the Americas scenic attraction. Here you’ll find a view of the entire city. For views of the Riverwalk, there are tons of restaurants to visit. Here, you’ll find chain restaurants as well as those unique to San Antonio.
Historic Eateries
San Antonio surprisingly has a lot of amazing historical restaurants. The Guenther House and Mi Tierra Café Panaderia are amongst some of the most famous.
Our Favorite Eats
- The Guenther House (Bunch)
- Tony G’s Soul Food (Soul Food and Brunch-Live Music)
- Bud’s Southern Rotisserie (Southern Cuisine)
- Fletcher’s Hamburgers (Classic American)
- Mi Tierra Café’ y Panaderia (Authentic Mexican)
- Smoke Shack (BBQ and Southern Cuisine)
- Acenar Hot Mex Cool Bar (TexMex Cuisine)
- Smashin’ Crab (Seafood)
Here’s an even more detailed San Antonio food guide.
Welcome to our San Antonio Crashpads. While you’re here, explore the area like a pro. For more tourism ideas, be sure to visit the tourism board website or stop by the Visitor Center which is located across the street from the Alamo.
Written by Sierra Redmond for Military Crashpad.
