Guest Author - Marilyn Crain

Need to take a break—a spring break? Budget a little tight this year. San Antonio may just be the perfect destination to solve your dilemma. Check out the great free things to do in this star-studded Texas city.

The Alamo

When you think of San Antonio, the first thing that comes to mind is the Alamo. But did you know that the Alamo was the first San Antonio mission and that when the famous battle of the Alamo took place it was already a hundred years old?

This historic landmark is open every day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day and admission is free. Learn more at the Alamo’s website (www.thealamo.org.)

Mission Trail

San Antonio’s other missions make up the Mission Trail established along the San Antonio River. They form San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. The missions are Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan Capistrano, and Mission Espada. The visitor center is located at Mission San Jose and is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., except Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day.

You can get all the details about location and what you can expect to see when you go, at www.nps.gov/saan/index.htm.

River Walk

The River Walk, also known as Paseo Del Rio, is another favorite destination of visitors to San Antonio. And why not? It’s free and home to shops, restaurants, hotels and museums. Where else can you stroll the river bank or enjoy a leisurely water journey on board a river taxi to the strains of mariachi music? You’ll have to pay for the river taxi, dinner and other perks, but the walking the river and listening to the music is free. And so are the museums if you choose to visit on the right days of the week. Learn more about the River Walk and its history at http://www.thesanantonioriverwalk.com/.

More Free Places to Visit

HemisFair Park (Remember the 1968 World’s Fair?) offers free access and a lovely getaway from the hustle and bustle of downtown. There is a fee for the Tower of the Americas and Majik Children’s Theater. The Japanese Tea Garden is a must-visit with its Koi ponds and lovely gardens. Brackenridge Park is more than 400 acres of family fun with its playgrounds and secluded picnic areas. Again, there is no cost.

These are a few of my favorites, but you’ll find even more low-cost or free attractions in the historic city of San Antonio. Just do a little research and head to San Antonio for a great spring (or any time) break. No matter your budget, you’ll have a great time.