Updated: Feb. 7, 2024

Can you really experience the best of San Antonio in just 72 hours? Absolutely! This vibrant city offers a mix of history, culture, and culinary delights that you can easily explore in a long weekend. I’ve curated this itinerary to help you make the most of your time, whether you’re a history buff, a foodie, or just looking for a fun getaway.

Where to Stay:

Before we dive into the itinerary, let’s talk about where to stay. To be close to the action, I recommend the King William’s District or Lone Star neighborhood. These areas offer a variety of charming accommodations within walking distance of breweries, restaurants, and popular tourist spots.

For a hassle-free and luxurious experience, check out Sonder. It’s like a high-end Airbnb with the amenities of a hotel but the comfort and space of an apartment.

Let’s get started!

What’s in My Pack?

Here’s look at some of my tried and test gear I used on the road (disclaimer: contains affiliate links).

Day 1: History & Culture

Morning: Start your day at the iconic Alamo. And, well, duh! This one has to be on the list. While it’s a popular tourist destination, it’s worth braving the crowds to learn about the history of this pivotal battle.

I recommend going during the day when you can buy a ticket and take a tour around the Church and spend time watching brief historical videos that play around the garden. Plus, you want that extra daylight to get a few shots in with Davy Crockett.

 

Afternoon: Take a leisurely stroll through the charming King William’s Historic District, known for its beautiful Victorian homes and tree-lined streets. Stop for lunch at Tito’s Mexican Restaurant, a local favorite with delicious food and friendly service. I highly recommend their enchiladas verdes – they’re to die for!

I mean, you can’t go to Texas without eating Mexican food, right? Tito’s is located right in the heart of King William’s neighborhood and should definitely be on your food list. In fact, this restaurant was so good, that I ended up going here four times. The excellent food is matched by an even more amazing waitstaff.

Evening: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city at the Japanese Tea Garden. This is something I definitely wasn’t aware of! This tea garden was created in the early 20th Century and contains multiple mini-walking paths that take you around the numerous ponds that surround the garden. Also, it’s worth noting that there’s FREE Admission!

Day 2: Food & Drink

Morning: Indulge in a delicious breakfast at a local cafe in King William’s District. Then, head to Dos Sirenos Brewing. This brewery is a unique find, with beers named after Greek and Norse mythology. I highly recommend trying their IPA, aptly named Zeus Juice.

This place was actually recommended by a friend since their classmate’s family are actually the owners. Plus, this place was located right from the Sonder apartment and within walking distance.

Day 3: The Riverwalk & More

Morning: Spend the morning exploring the San Antonio Riverwalk. This vibrant area is filled with shops, restaurants, and bars, and is a great place to people-watch or take a boat tour. Don’t miss the chance to stop at Jimmy Buffett’s Margaritaville for a tropical cocktail and a taste of the island life.

Afternoon: If you have time, check out one of San Antonio’s many museums, such as the McNay Art Museum or the Witte Museum. Alternatively, take a leisurely bike ride along the Mission Reach section of the Riverwalk, which offers stunning views of the San Antonio Missions.

Evening: End your trip with a farewell dinner at a restaurant in the King William’s District or on the Riverwalk. Reflect on your 72 hours in San Antonio and start planning your next visit!

San Antonio

Tips, Tricks, and Logistics

Planning a 72-hour trip to San Antonio? Here are some logistical tips to help you make the most of your time:

Getting Around:

• Walkability: Many of the top attractions in downtown San Antonio, including the Alamo, Riverwalk, and King William’s Historic District, are within walking distance of each other.
• Public Transportation: The VIA Metropolitan Transit system offers bus and streetcar service throughout the city. Consider purchasing a VIA Day Pass for unlimited rides.
• Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available in San Antonio.
• Car Rental: If you plan to explore attractions outside the city center, like the missions, consider renting a car.

Accommodation:

• Location: Choose a hotel or vacation rental near the Riverwalk or in the King William’s Historic District for easy access to restaurants, bars, and attractions.
• Consider Sonder: If you’re looking for a more spacious and apartment-like experience, Sonder offers a great alternative to traditional hotels or Airbnb. I found it perfect for remote work.

Timing:

• The Alamo: Visit early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Restaurants: Many restaurants in San Antonio offer happy hour specials, so plan your meals accordingly to save money.
• Festivals and Events: Check the city’s event calendar to see if any festivals or events are happening during your visit.

Other Tips:

• Weather: San Antonio can get hot, especially in the summer. Be sure to pack sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses.
• TSA Lines: Allow extra time for security at the airport, especially during peak travel times.
• Bring Comfortable Shoes: You’ll be doing a lot of walking, so be sure to pack comfortable shoes.
• Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water, especially if you’re visiting during the hotter months.

Trip Soundtrack

Because every adventure needs a soundtrack, each of my trips comes with a theme song. And for this trip's anthem? Well, it's...

Jack Harlow - Churchill Downs (ft. Drake)

As your 72-hour adventure in San Antonio wraps up, you’ve hopefully experienced a blend of history, culture, and excitement. From the Alamo’s historic echoes to the lively Riverwalk. I for one loved all the local flavor–including the abundance of Tex-Mex. Hopefully, you’ll return this wonderful city with get even more discoveries. If you find some worth sharing, simple shoot me an e-mail!