With Riverwalk being the city’s most iconic attraction and water parks like SeaWorld and Morgan’s Wonderland drawing tourists year-round, fall in San Antonio is truly amazing. These beloved destinations don’t close their doors; instead, they transform from summer hotspots into cozy fall havens with a whole new lineup of autumn-focused events and festivals. Even with temperatures around 75, San Antonio shines in the fall.
Whether you enjoy sipping hot cocoa while watching an outdoor movie or picking the perfect pumpkin together, San Antonio invites you to experience its fall magic in ways that will warm your heart and fill your days with joy. So, grab your favorite sweater and join me as I explore all the fantastic things to do in San Antonio this fall. You won’t want to miss a single moment!
Top Fall Experiences You Can’t Miss in San Antonio
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, here’s your ultimate guide to the best fall things to do in San Antonio.
Stroll Along the San Antonio RiverWalk
The San Antonio River Walk is a must-see year-round but fall adds a unique twist to this iconic destination. As you stroll along the picturesque riverbanks, you’ll be surrounded by vibrant fall foliage colors. Mistaken as a place for leisurely strolls, here you get to see the most diverse colors of the city’s culture, and there are so many things to do on the San Antonio Riverwalk. Enjoy a leisurely boat ride with GO Rio San Antonio River Cruises, eat incredible food at one of the many riverside restaurants, or simply enjoy the scenic views.
The Fall Artisan Show, from October 11 to 13, 2024, is the biggest Autumn attraction at Riverwalk, featuring over 40 handmade artisan booths, including pottery, woodwork, textiles, jewelry, paintings, beadwork, and more.
Explore the San Antonio Botanical Garden
If you also think summer blooms are the only attractions of San Antonio Botanical Garden, pay a visit this fall, and you’ll definitely change your mind. This 38-acre urban oasis just a short drive (3 miles) from downtown, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is a haven for nature lovers, and it’s particularly enchanting in the fall. The garden’s diverse collection of plants showcases stunning autumn hues. Take a guided tour, participate in a seasonal exhibit, or wander the tranquil gardens.
From sipping on a pumpkin-spiced Moscow Mule at Raising the Bar on October 9, 2024, to playing trick-or-treat at the Halloween themed event BOOtanica event on October 19, 2024, the Botanical Garden is set to host some of the best fall festivals in San Antonio.
Experience the Vibrant San Antonio Market Square
San Antonio Market Square, also known as El Mercado, is a vibrant cultural hub perfect for a fall outing with the whole family. The market comes alive with over 100 locally owned businesses, festive decorations, live musical performances, and local vendors serving delicious Tex-Mex cuisine. Browse the colorful stalls for unique Mexican crafts, jewelry, leather goods, fall apparel, and souvenirs.
Fall months bring special events and celebrations, making it an exciting time to visit.
Scream with Thrill at Six Flags Fiesta Texas
It’s hard to imagine a fall getaway without having amusement and theme parks on the bucket list. Six Flags Fiesta Texas transforms into a thrilling fall wonderland during Fright Fest (not for young children), running from September 7 to November 3, 2024. This holiday season, the theme park will be decked out in spooky decorations, live entertainment, and haunted houses like Stranger Things and Slaughterhouse 6 Extreme, where scary creatures make you run towards the exit door.
For those who prefer less fright and more fun, the park’s roller coasters and rides offer an adrenaline rush against fall scenery. If you are visiting with the entire family, the kids boo fest at Six Flags Fiesta is the perfect opportunity to let your younger children have a blast with unique fall festivities, trick-or-treating, Family Friendly Rides, and a less scary haunted house.
Celebrate at the San Antonio Day of the Dead Festival
The San Antonio Day of the Dead Festival celebrates life and death, honoring Mexican traditions. Set to be held from late October to early November, San Antonio is the proud host of the country’s largest Day of the Dead celebrations, with an event lineup spanning weeks at multiple locations.
The festival features colorful altars, traditional music, folk dances, and delicious food. Muertos Fest has been recognized as one of the “7 Best Fall Festivals in the United States” by National Geographic, and it’s easy to see why. The highlight is the grand procession on November 1, 2024, where participants don elaborate costumes and face paint.
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Dive into Fun at SeaWorld San Antonio
SeaWorld San Antonio might be the best place to have splashy water fun in summer, but in the fall months, this entertainment oasis transforms into Halloween-themed family fun with lots of scary stuff.
A unique fall-themed event, Howl-O-Scream has transformed the peaceful park you once knew into something sinister this Halloween once the sun sets down on a fall evening, awakening hundreds of creatures that roam free the halls of haunted houses.
For less spooky family fun, SeaWorld’s Spooktacular Sleepover, which runs from September 12 to October 31, 2024, every Thursday through Sunday, is an ideal daytime fall adventure for the little ones. They will definitely have a good time learning about animals through Halloween-themed activities, animal encounters, and night tours with optional visits to Howl-O-Scream haunts. The park’s marine life exhibits and thrilling rides are also a great way to enjoy a fall day.
Roam with Wildlife at the San Antonio Zoo
The San Antonio Zoo is a fantastic destination in the fall, with cooler weather making it easier to explore. The zoo is hosting Zoo Boo from September 21 to October 31, 2024, a family-friendly and non-scary Halloween event with trick-or-treating, DJ on Saturdays, costume contests, and themed animal encounters.
With over 700 fascinating critters spread across 50 acres, you’re sure to discover some amazing new species, while your kids will have a blast on a classic train ride and themed carousel onsite.
Discover Art at the San Antonio Museum of Art
The San Antonio Museum of Art offers a rich cultural experience, with exhibits ranging from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. Step into a world of art and history at the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA). Housed in the historic Lone Star Brewery, SAMA takes you through 5,000 years of artistic expression from around the globe. Explore one of the most impressive collections of ancient Greek, Roman, and Egyptian art in the southern United States.
The museum hosts special exhibitions and events that dive deeper into art and history in the fall. The museum’s riverside location also offers a lovely spot for a leisurely autumn walk.
Explore History at the San Antonio Historic Spanish Missions
The Historic San Antonio Missions, including the Alamo, are a UNESCO World Heritage site and a must-visit in the fall. The missions’ historic architecture and serene grounds are even more captivating with the backdrop of autumn colors. Explore the stunning architecture and rich history of Missions San José, Concepción, San Francisco de Espada, and Mission San Juan as you leisurely walk or bike along the picturesque Mission Reach trail, connecting all four missions.
Take a guided tour to learn about these sites’ rich history and cultural significance.
Pick Pumpkins at Owl Creek Pumpkin Patch
A true fall getaway isn’t complete without picking up the season’s finest at one of the pumpkin patches. Use your pumpkins to make your own pumpkin pie or pumpkin-spiced latte. This family-friendly destination offers a day’s worth of fun things, including pumpkin picking, hayrides, a corn maze, and a petting zoo. Get up close and personal with adorable animals like llamas, goats, pigs, rabbits, ducks, chickens, and donkeys.
If you’re up for a real adventure, head to Traders Village San Antonio for a dinosaur-themed 10-acre corn maze. It’s open on weekends from October 5th through November 30th, 2024. With mazes of varying difficulties, fantastic concessions, photo opportunities, and even a free petting zoo, there’s something for everyone to enjoy!
Explore Creativity at La Villita Historic Arts Village
Located on the southern bank of the famed San Antonio River Walk, La Villita Historic Arts Village is a charming enclave of galleries, shops, and local restaurants. In the fall, the village hosts the famous Dia de los Muertos Festival and Oktoberfest at the Village. Additionally, it holds art festivals, craft fairs, and over 200 events that celebrate local artists and artisans, showcasing San Antonio’s culture and history.
Stroll through the cobblestone streets, admire the fall decorations, and pick up unique handmade items.
Birdwatch at Mitchell Lake Audubon Center
Mitchell Lake Audubon Center is a birdwatcher’s paradise, particularly when migratory birds enter the San Antonio area in the fall. The center offers guided bird walks and educational programs. It also has tranquil trails where you can enjoy the natural beauty of the lake and its surroundings.
Experience the Arts at Blue Star Arts Complex
The Blue Star Arts Complex is a vibrant community of artists, galleries, and studios located in the Southtown Arts District. Fall is an ideal time to explore the complex. It hosts First Thursday, a monthly event featuring art openings, live music, special performances, and food trucks.
Watch Movies Under the Stars with Slab Cinema
Slab Cinema offers outdoor movie screenings in various locations around San Antonio, providing a unique way to enjoy fall evenings. Bring a blanket, grab some snacks, and settle in for Adam Sandler’s “Uncut Gems” under the stars running through the end of September. The fall lineup often includes classic films and family favorites, making it a fun date outing in San Antonio.
Other Things To Do in Texas This Fall
Looking to expand your fall adventure beyond San Antonio? Texas has so much more to offer! Don’t miss out on the State Fair of Texas in Dallas, where you can enjoy mouthwatering fried treats, thrilling rides, and live entertainment. For a taste of German culture, head to Oktoberfest in Fredericksburg, where you’ll find delicious sausages, refreshing beer, and lively music. If you’re a nature lover, Big Bend National Park offers breathtaking landscapes, perfect for hiking and stargazing.
Check out our full guide to the Best Things To Do in Texas This Fall.
Things To Do in San Antonio This Fall: FAQs
What is fall like in San Antonio?
Although fall in San Antonio has been slightly warmer recently, the weather is still pleasantly mild, with temperatures averaging around 75 degrees. The weather in San Antonio during fall is a perfect blend of warm days and cool evenings. This makes it an ideal time to enjoy everything the city has to offer, from outdoor activities to fall festivals, cultural events, and seasonal attractions.
Does San Antonio have an Oktoberfest?
San Antonio is hosting an Oktoberfest celebration at La Villita Historic Arts Village from September 20 to 22, 2024. The event features traditional German food, beer, music, and cultural festivities, offering a fun and lively atmosphere for all ages. Best of all, admission is free.
Is October a good month to visit San Antonio?
Yes, October is a great month to visit San Antonio. The weather is pleasant, with mild temperatures and less humidity, making it perfect for outdoor activities.
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Things To Do in San Antonio This Fall: Final Thoughts
If you also think San Antonio is good enough to visit in the summer as I did, I must say, you definitely need to reconsider. The cooler temperatures make exploring the city even more enjoyable. The fall festivities in San Antonio bring out a whole new side of the city that you have never seen before.
So, if you’ve only experienced San Antonio under the summer sun, do yourself a favor and plan a fall trip. Trust me, you’ll be pleasantly surprised by how much there is to see and do in this remarkable city. You might even find that fall becomes your favorite time to visit.
Last Updated 4 hours ago by Jessica Serna | Published: September 29, 2024
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