Top 15 San Antonio Tours You Can’t Miss

Established by the Spanish Empire in the early 18th century, San Antonio initially commenced as a modest Christian mission set in the wilderness. Presently, it stands as Texas’s second-largest city, accommodating over a million residents.

The city’s Spanish heritage bestows a unique cultural essence that is unmatched in the southern United States, inviting visitors to experience the harmonious blend of Texan lifestyle and gastronomy within a historic framework.

San Antonio has played a pivotal role in Texas’s historical narrative; tourists can explore ancient missions and pay homage at the renowned Alamo. Moreover, indulge in an array of beer, food, and wine tours that celebrate both the city’s vibrant culture and its picturesque surroundings.

It is truly an excellent destination. Consequently, to assist in arranging your itinerary, below are some of the premier San Antonio tours to consider during your visit.

1. San Antonio Explorer Pass

San Antonio boasts a wealth of tourist attractions that visitors should not overlook. For those interested in visiting multiple sights and museums, acquiring the San Antonio Explorer Pass is an effective way to economize and gain access to excellent discounts.

This pass promises discounts of up to 45 percent for entry to many renowned sites. Therefore, if your agenda includes a variety of activities in San Antonio, it serves as an exceptional cost-saving solution.

2. San Antonio Hop on Hop off Bus Tour

Navigating a new urban landscape can be challenging, especially in a sprawling city like San Antonio. However, the Hop on Hop off Bus Tour alleviates these concerns.

This open-air bus offers the flexibility to disembark at any of the 18 designated stops of interest. Such locations encompass all of San Antonio’s top attractions, including the Alamo and the River Walk. Furthermore, while journeying through the city, an informative audio guide enriches your experience.

3. San Antonio River Walk Cruise and Hop on Hop off Bus Tour

This exceptional tour offers not only the advantageous Hop on Hop off Bus pass for navigating San Antonio but also an enjoyable cruise along the River Walk.

Guests will experience a tranquil boat ride along the picturesque San Antonio River, traversing the delightful River Walk—an area that meanders through a scenic park adorned with vibrant restaurants and cafes.

4. San Antonio: The Grand Historic Tour

This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, providing a comprehensive day exploring San Antonio’s most significant historical landmarks and attractions.

Accompanied by a knowledgeable local guide, attendees will visit sites such as the Alamo and the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Spanish Missions, along with a stop at traditional western-style saloons and a lunch break at a Mexican market.

5. The Real San Antonio Small Group Guided Tour

For those seeking a respite from crowded tourist spots while still experiencing the city’s remarkable sights and historical narrative with a local guide, this small group tour is an optimal choice.

Participants will explore the Spanish Missions, the Alamo, the River Walk, and several additional attractions in the congenial atmosphere of a minivan, where a guide will provide an in-depth overview of the city’s enriching history and culture.

6. Small Group World Heritage San Antonio Missions Tour With Guide

This insightful small group tour revolves around the UNESCO World Heritage-designated Spanish Missions situated within a protected National Historical Park. These historic missions date back to the early 18th century, representing some of the initial structures established by Europeans in the area.

Throughout the day, attendees will visit several missions and gain a deeper understanding of San Antonio’s colonial history.

7. Downtown Delicacy – San Antonio Walking Food Tour

Take a break from historical exploration and embark on this delightful tour to uncover San Antonio’s vibrant culinary landscape. The Walking Food Tour guides participants through the finest restaurants and innovative eateries in Downtown, affording the opportunity to meet local chefs and sample their exceptional dishes.

Guests will indulge in an array of Tex-Mex culinary delights, and while walking from venue to venue, they may find themselves tempted to savor more than just a few bites.

8. 1.5 Hour Segway Tour of San Antonio and The Alamo

For those who prefer an alternative to walking, this Segway Tour of San Antonio and the Alamo allows you to discover the city highlights while enjoying the outdoor ambiance.

Glide through the streets on a Segway, guided by a local expert. Instructions will be provided to familiarize you with navigating this enjoyable mode of transport, which is notably straightforward and relaxed. Attendees will traverse historic downtown areas and visit iconic sites, including the Alamo, during this engaging and dynamic excursion.

9. San Antonio: 2.5 Hour Amazing Scavenger Hunt Adventure

For an engaging and distinctive experience in San Antonio, consider participating in a local Scavenger Hunt. Over the course of two and a half hours, you and your team will navigate the city, solving puzzles and hunting for clues.

The Scavenger Hunt is facilitated through your smartphone, allowing participants to initiate the adventure at their convenience. The experience traverses the city center, incorporating all major tourist attractions as you compete to succeed in the game.

10. San Antonio Ghost Tour

Another captivating yet unconventional tour to consider while in the city is the San Antonio Ghost Tour. This excursion occurs after sunset, allowing participants to spend the evening exploring city streets while uncovering the more enigmatic aspects of local history.

Local ghost enthusiasts share legends and tales from San Antonio’s past, directing visitors to sites historically associated with supernatural occurrences. This experience offers an intriguing and potentially chilling perspective of the city.

11. The Buckhorn Saloon and Museum and Texas Ranger Museum Tour

Immerse yourself in genuine Texan history with this insightful tour of The Buckhorn Saloon and the Texas Ranger Museum. At The Buckhorn Saloon, visitors can explore remarkable Texan exhibits and a peculiar collection of taxidermied animals collected over more than a century.

Enjoy a leisurely lunch and local craft beers at the saloon, before proceeding to the fascinating Texas Ranger Museum to discover the fascinating history and legacy of the state’s Rangers.

12. Texas Hill Country and LBJ Tour From San Antonio

Venture beyond the city limits to explore the scenic Texas Hill Country, passing through quaint rural towns and venturing into the Fredericksburg wine region.

As part of this tour, attendees will trace the legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson by visiting his ranch in the Texas Hills, as well as the former president’s residence.

13. Ranger Creek Brewstillery Tour

The term “Brewstillery” refers to a unique fusion of craft brewery and whiskey distillery; at Ranger Creek, patrons can experience the only establishment of its kind within the San Antonio area.

Guests will have the opportunity to sample some of the finest local beverages, tasting both beer and bourbon after enjoying a tour of this distinctive venue.

14. San Antonio Craft Cruisin’ Sunday Brewery Tour

Craft beer enthusiasts will relish this distinctive brewery tour while in San Antonio, which features visits to three separate breweries within the city.

Participants will explore exceptional local brews and experience some outstanding craft beers while gaining insights into the innovative beverage culture in San Antonio from knowledgeable guides and brewers at each destination.

15. Fredericksburg Hill Country Wine Tour

Travel from San Antonio into the Texas Hill Country to explore the German-influenced region of Fredericksburg, renowned for its wine production. Knowledgeable local guides will share insights about this distinct area as you visit the premier wineries.

Appreciate stunning views over charming vineyards, learn about local winemaking processes, savor a Texan lunch, and of course, enjoy several delightful wine tastings along the way.