12 Fun Activities Near Fort Sam Houston

Fort Sam Houston might be known for its military history and training, but there's more to this area than meets the eye. When it comes to having fun, you might be surprised at the variety of activities available. From charming local parks to action-packed adventures, there are plenty of things to do near Fort Sam Houston. Whether you're a local looking for something new to try or a visitor exploring the area, get ready to discover a dozen fun activities that will keep you entertained and engaged.

San Antonio Zoo

San Antonio is a vibrant city that attracts visitors with its rich culture, history, and a variety of entertaining activities. One of the most popular places for tourists and locals to visit is the San Antonio Zoo, located just a few miles north of Fort Sam Houston. The zoo is spread over 35 acres and is home to over 3,000 animals representing more than 750 species.

The San Antonio Zoo offers numerous exciting experiences for visitors of all ages. One of the most popular attractions is the Africa Live exhibit, which transports visitors to the African Savanna and features animals such as lions, zebras, and giraffes. Another must-see exhibit is the Amazonia exhibit, which showcases the diverse wildlife of South America, including jaguars, macaws, and piranhas. The zoo also boasts a large bird collection, with over 100 different species, and a butterfly exhibit that allows visitors to step into a world of color and warmth.

For those interested in conservation and learning more about the zoo's animal conservation programs, the zoo offers various educational programs, including behind-the-scenes tours and interactive experiences with the animals. There are also opportunities for visitors to interact with the animals, such as feeding giraffes or lorikeets. The zoo also has a children's area, where kids can play on a giant treehouse, pet small animals, and even ride a train around the park.

The San Antonio Zoo is not only a fun destination for families and animal lovers, but it also plays an essential role in animal conservation and research. The zoo frequently participates in conservation efforts and has successfully bred many endangered species in captivity.

In conclusion, the San Antonio Zoo is a fantastic attraction that offers visitors an opportunity to experience a diverse range of wildlife in a beautiful setting. It is a great place to visit if you are in the Fort Sam Houston area and are looking for a fun and educational activity. Don't forget to wear comfortable shoes and bring a camera to capture the memories.

The Witte Museum

If you're looking for a fun and educational experience near Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio Texas, the Witte Museum should be at the top of your list. The museum is located just a few miles from the base and offers a range of exhibits and activities for the entire family.

One of the most popular features of the Witte Museum is the H-E-B Body Adventure. This interactive exhibit offers a fun and engaging way to learn about how the human body works. You can explore exhibits on nutrition, exercise, and the body's various systems. There are also interactive displays that allow visitors to test their strength, balance, and coordination.

Another popular exhibit is the Texas Wild Exhibit. This exhibit is dedicated to showcasing the natural beauty and diversity of Texas' wildlife. You can see a variety of animals native to the state including imposing bison, fierce alligators and majestic eagles.

If you're interested in learning about the history of San Antonio, the Witte Museum also offers a range of exhibits on the city's rich cultural heritage. You can explore exhibits on the original Spanish settlers, learn about Native American tribes that once called the area home, and discover the city's role in the Texas Revolution.

In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts a variety of events throughout the year. These events range from lectures and workshops to musical performances and festivals. Check their calendar to see what events their hosting during your visit.

Overall, the Witte Museum is an educational and fun experience for all ages. So, when looking for things to do near Fort Sam Houston, the Witte Museum is definitely a must-visit destination!

The McNay Art Museum

Located just a short drive from Fort Sam Houston is one of San Antonio's most beloved cultural gems - the McNay Art Museum.

Founded by Marion Koogler McNay in 1950, the museum is housed in a stunning Spanish Colonial Revival style mansion that was once her family's residence. Today, it features an impressive collection of 20th and 21st century artworks that has grown to more than 22,000 pieces, including modernist masterpieces, European and American paintings, and an extensive collection of prints and drawings.

Visitors to the McNay Art Museum can wander through the galleries and take in the works of artists like Georgia O'Keeffe, Pablo Picasso, Paul Gauguin, Henri Matisse, and Diego Rivera, as well as many local and regional artists. In addition to the main galleries, the McNay also has rotating exhibitions, offering a fresh perspective on different themes and styles.

For those who want to dive deeper into the art, the McNay also offers a range of educational programs, from lectures and workshops to exhibitions and symposiums. Visitors can also take tours of the museum, which provide insight into the history of the McNay family and their contributions to the San Antonio community.

The museum's grounds are also worth exploring, with lush gardens and beautiful outdoor sculptures dotted throughout the 23-acre estate. Art enthusiasts and nature lovers alike will appreciate the serene setting.

Admission to the McNay Art Museum is affordable, with discounts available for students, seniors, and military personnel. Free admission is offered on the first Sunday of each month, and the museum is also open late on certain evenings throughout the year.

Whether you're a fan of modern art or simply looking for a way to spend an afternoon, the McNay Art Museum is a must-see destination that's conveniently located near Fort Sam Houston. So why not plan a visit and discover the beauty of this San Antonio treasure for yourself?

The River Walk

If you find yourself stationed at Fort Sam Houston, there are plenty of things to do nearby to keep you entertained. One of the best places to visit is the River Walk in San Antonio. This is a beautiful and bustling area filled with shops, restaurants, and entertainment options for all ages.

There are over 100 restaurants and cafes lining the River Walk, as well as shops, galleries, and entertainment venues. You can hop on a boat tour to learn more about the area's history and attractions, or simply stroll along the river and take in the scenery.

One of the most popular sections of the River Walk is the historic La Villita district. This area is home to a variety of shops and galleries, as well as the Arneson River Theater, where you can catch a performance or show.

For those looking for a bit of adventure, there are also numerous water sports and outdoor activities available along the river. You can rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore the waterways yourself, or take a guided tour to learn more about the area's natural history.

Overall, the River Walk is a must-visit destination for anyone stationed at Fort Sam Houston. With its beautiful scenery, great food, and plenty of entertainment options, it's a great place to unwind and have fun with friends and family.

The Alamo

Characteristic	Description
Name	Fort Sam Houston Quadrangle and Museum
Type	Tourist attraction in Fort Sam Houston, Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.7 / 394
Address	1405 E Grayson St, Fort Sam Houston, TX 78234
Phone	(210) 221-1886
Hours	Saturday - Closed Sunday - Closed Monday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Tuesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Wednesday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Thursday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM Friday - opens at 10 AM and closes at 4 PM
Profiles

Fort Sam Houston is a highly ranked military base, home to a number of military units and their families. Yet, in the heart of San Antonio, Texas, there is a symbol of Texas's past that equally captures the attention of visitors and locals alike: The Alamo.

Visitors to the Alamo can also view a 17-minute film that tells the story of the battle, take guided tours of the site, and visit the Alamo gift shop. There is even a Living History Program that allows visitors to see reenactments of the battle and learn about the daily life of the soldiers who fought there.

In addition to its historical significance, the Alamo is also a beautiful and peaceful place to visit. The Alamo Gardens, located outside the shrine, offer a quiet and serene place to reflect and appreciate the beauty of the area.

Overall, the Alamo is a must-see when visiting Fort Sam Houston and San Antonio. It is a symbol of bravery and sacrifice, and an important historical site that tells the story of Texas's fight for independence. Plan your visit today, and experience the spirit of Texas for yourself.

Six Flags Fiesta Texas

If you’re looking for some fun and excitement near Fort Sam Houston, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is just a short 20-minute drive away. This amusement park has something to offer for everyone, from heart-pumping roller coasters to family-friendly shows and attractions.

One of the park's most popular rides is the Iron Rattler. This hybrid coaster offers a thrilling combination of traditional wooden coaster elements with the smooth ride of a steel coaster. You'll reach speeds up to 70 mph while encountering barrel rolls, sharp drops, and inversions.

If you're looking for more adrenaline-pumping rides, check out Batman: The Ride or Goliath. Batman: The Ride is a B&M invert coaster that features several inversions and speeds up to 50 mph. Goliath is a hyper coaster that will take you up 200 feet and send you down at speeds up to 80 mph.

For a less intense ride, try out the park's water rides like Thunder Rapids or the White Water Bay Wave Pool. The water park section of the park has plenty of slides and activities for the whole family, including a lazy river and a kids' play area.

When it comes to entertainment, Six Flags Fiesta Texas does not disappoint. The park has a variety of shows throughout the day, featuring everything from circus performers to magic shows. For kids, there are character meet-and-greets with beloved Six Flags characters like Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck.

In addition to the rides and shows, visitors can enjoy many dining options and shops throughout the park. From traditional theme park snacks like funnel cakes and corn dogs to more upscale dining options, there's something for every taste.

Overall, Six Flags Fiesta Texas is an excellent option for a day trip or weekend adventure near Fort Sam Houston. Whether you're seeking thrills or simple amusement, you'll find it here amidst the coasters, water attractions, and entertainment. Grab your friends and family and head on over for a day of fun and excitement.

SeaWorld San Antonio

Fort Sam Houston, located in the heart of San Antonio, Texas, is a historic military installation that is home to many active-duty and retired military personnel. Although the base offers plenty of activities and events for the community, there are also many other exciting things to do nearby. One of the most popular and family-friendly attractions in the area is SeaWorld San Antonio.

One of the main attractions at SeaWorld San Antonio is the wide array of marine animals that call the park home. From playful dolphins and sea lions to majestic orcas and beluga whales, visitors can get an up-close look at these incredible creatures. SeaWorld San Antonio also offers many interactive exhibits and shows that allow visitors to learn more about marine life and conservation efforts.

Another great reason to visit SeaWorld San Antonio is the thrill rides. The park features several exciting roller coasters and water attractions that are sure to get your adrenaline pumping. From the 360-degree flips on the Wave Breaker roller coaster to the steep drop on the Texas Splashdown, there is something for everyone at SeaWorld San Antonio.

If you are looking for a more relaxing experience, SeaWorld San Antonio also offers many scenic areas to explore. Visitors can take a leisurely stroll through the beautiful floral gardens or enjoy a peaceful ride on the park's gondola system. For those who want to cool off on a hot Texas day, there are several water play areas and pools throughout the park.

Finally, SeaWorld San Antonio is a great place to go for delicious food, souvenir shopping, and live entertainment. The park has several restaurants and snack vendors that offer tasty treats and refreshing beverages. There are also many gift shops and boutiques that sell everything from stuffed animals to jewelry. And, with live shows featuring acrobatics, music, and dance, there is always something new and exciting around every corner.

In conclusion, if you are looking for fun things to do near Fort Sam Houston, SeaWorld San Antonio is a great destination. With amazing marine life exhibits, thrilling rides, scenic areas, delicious food, and live entertainment, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So, pack your bags and head on over to SeaWorld San Antonio for an unforgettable adventure.

San Antonio Botanical Garden

Fort Sam Houston, in San Antonio, Texas, is a major military installation that has been serving the United States Army for over a century. Located in the heart of Texas, it is surrounded by many attractions and things to do. In this article, we will be discussing one of the best places to visit near Fort Sam Houston, which is the San Antonio Botanical Garden.

One of the main highlights of the San Antonio Botanical Garden is the Lucile Halsell Conservatory, which features multiple climate-controlled rooms that are home to exotic plants from Thailand, Africa, and the Americas. Visitors can also explore the Texas Native Trail, which educates visitors about the different plant species that grow in the state. The trail features different gardens, such as the Hill Country, East Texas Pineywoods, and South Texas, showcasing the diversity of the state's ecosystems.

Another attraction that you shouldn't miss out on while visiting the San Antonio Botanical Garden is the Japanese Garden, which is inspired by classical Japanese gardens. It features a traditional teahouse, a waterfall, a pond, and a walking path that leads to different parts of the garden. The garden is peaceful and visually appealing, making it an excellent spot to relax and reflect.

If you visit the San Antonio Botanical Garden during the summer, you can witness the amazing display of the Garden's Fiesta Noche Buena. It is a festival of lights that takes place during the holiday season, where the garden is illuminated with thousands of festive lights. Visitors can experience holiday traditions from around the world with live music, food, and drink.

In conclusion, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is a must-visit place a short drive away from Fort Sam Houston. It is an awe-inspiring attraction that is rich in exotic plants and diverse gardens. You can easily spend a few hours exploring the garden, taking captivating photos, and learning about nature. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a plant lover, or someone who enjoys cultural activities, the garden has something for everyone.

Japanese Tea Garden

Fort Sam Houston in San Antonio, Texas is a rich historical and cultural destination that offers a plethora of exciting things to do nearby. One of the top attractions in the area is the Japanese Tea Garden, an oasis of tranquility in the heart of the city.

Originally created in the 1920s as a quarry, the Japanese Tea Garden is a serene sanctuary that offers visitors a glimpse of natural beauty. Over the years, the garden has been transformed into an idyllic setting, complete with exotic plants, waterfalls, bridges, and winding pathways.

A visit to the Japanese Tea Garden is a fascinating experience that immerses visitors in Japanese culture. The garden is home to breathtaking ponds, vibrant koi fish, and lush greenery that are reminiscent of traditional Japanese gardens. In fact, the garden is the perfect spot for meditation, relaxation, and reflection.

In addition to the stunning scenery, the garden's Tea House provides a unique cultural experience. The Tea House is a one-of-a-kind building that provides traditional Japanese tea ceremonies and other cultural events. Visitors can sit in a tatami room and watch as the tea master prepares the tea, showcasing the precision and attention to detail in the ceremony.

Overall, a visit to the Japanese Tea Garden is a must-do activity when in San Antonio's Fort Sam Houston area. Whether you're looking for a quiet place to unwind or a cultural experience that immerses you in Japanese traditions, the garden is the perfect place to find it. With its beautiful scenery, tranquil atmosphere, and cultural events, the Japanese Tea Garden is a destination that shouldn’t be missed.

San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

Characteristic	Description
Name	San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
Type	Historical place in Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 8,259
Address	San Antonio, TX 78214
Phone	(210) 534-8875
Hours	Saturday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Sunday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Monday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Tuesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Wednesday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Thursday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM Friday - opens at 9 AM and closes at 5 PM
Profiles

Fort Sam Houston is home to a variety of exciting activities and attractions, but one must-see destination that should be on your list is the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park. This unique historical park is located just a short distance away from the fort and offers visitors the opportunity to learn about the rich history and culture of San Antonio's five Spanish colonial missions.

The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park features five historic missions: Mission Concepcion, Mission San Jose, Mission San Juan Capistrano, Mission Espada, and the Alamo. Each mission has its own unique story, and they all played an important role in the development of San Antonio and the Southwest.

At Mission Concepcion, visitors can explore the beautifully preserved stone church, which was built in the 18th century and features intricate carvings and unique decorations. Mission San Jose, often referred to as the "Queen of the Missions," is the largest of the five missions and features a stunning rose window and a beautiful courtyard.

At Mission San Juan Capistrano, visitors can explore the ruins of the original mission and learn about the lives of the Coahuiltecan Indians who lived in the area. Mission Espada, the southernmost of the missions, features a charming chapel and picturesque ruins.

Finally, no visit to San Antonio Missions National Historical Park would be complete without a stop at the Alamo. This historic site is the most famous of the San Antonio missions and is known for being the site of the famous Battle of the Alamo. Visitors can explore the fortress-like compound and visit the chapel where several defenders of the Alamo are buried.

In addition to exploring the missions, visitors to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park can also enjoy hiking and biking trails that wind through the park. Along the way, you can enjoy stunning views of the missions and the surrounding landscape.

Overall, a visit to the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is a must-do activity when visiting Fort Sam Houston. From exploring the historic missions to hiking and biking through the park, there is something for everyone to enjoy. So why not plan a trip to this unique historical park today?

Natural Bridge Caverns

If you're stationed at Fort Sam Houston and looking for something fun to do nearby, you might want to check out Natural Bridge Caverns. Located just 30 minutes north of the base near New Braunfels, these caverns offer a unique and exciting opportunity to explore underground.

The Natural Bridge Caverns are the largest commercial caverns in Texas, boasting an impressive network of underground passages, formations, and pools. The caverns were discovered in 1960 by a group of college students, and have since become a popular tourist destination.

Visitors to the Natural Bridge Caverns can choose from several guided tours, each offering a different perspective on the underground wonderland. The Discovery Tour takes you on a lighted path through some of the most scenic and accessible areas of the caves, while the Hidden Passages Tour takes you off the beaten path to explore some of the lesser-known areas of the caverns.

For a real adventure, try the Adventure Tour, which combines caving and rappelling to take you even deeper into the caverns. This tour is not for the faint of heart, but it offers a truly unique and unforgettable experience.

In addition to the caverns themselves, Natural Bridge Caverns is home to several other attractions, including a zip line course, a maze, and a mining sluice where you can pan for gemstones. There's also a gift shop and a café on site, so you can refuel after your underground adventure.

Whether you're looking for a day trip with the family or an exciting excursion with friends, Natural Bridge Caverns is a must-see attraction for anyone stationed at Fort Sam Houston. With its fascinating formations, breathtaking views, and thrilling tours, it's no wonder this underground wonderland has become such a popular destination.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Characteristic	Description
Name	Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Type	Nature preserve in Texas
Website	Go to website
Rating / Review count	4.8 / 6,544
Address	16710 Ranch Rd 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624
Phone	(830) 685-3636
Hours	Saturday - opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 10 PM Sunday - opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 10 PM Monday - opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 10 PM Tuesday - opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 10 PM Wednesday - opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 10 PM Thursday - opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 10 PM Friday - opens at 6:30 AM and closes at 10 PM
Profiles

Fort Sam Houston is located in San Antonio, Texas, which is known for its rich history, culture, and natural beauty. One of the best nearby attractions to explore is the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area.

Enchanted Rock is a massive pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above the surrounding terrain. It is considered a geological wonder and attracts visitors from all over the world. The area is named after the Tonkawa Indians who believed the rock was enchanted.

There are plenty of outdoor activities to enjoy in Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. Hiking is the most popular activity, and there are over 11 miles of trails to explore. The summit trail is the most challenging, but the view from the top is worth the effort. On a clear day, visitors can see for miles around. The Loop Trail is a great option for beginners and offers scenic views of the rock.

Camping is another popular activity in the area. The park has campsites with water and electricity and primitive campsites for more adventurous visitors. The park also has showers, restrooms, and a picnic area.

For those who want a more guided experience, the park offers interpretive programs throughout the year. These programs cover topics such as geology, wildlife, and history. The park rangers are knowledgeable and eager to share their knowledge.

In conclusion, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is an excellent destination for nature lovers seeking outdoor adventure. It offers a unique and magical experience that visitors will not forget. So, the next time you’re looking for something to do near Fort Sam Houston, head on out to Enchanted Rock. You won’t be disappointed!

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