This post was originally published in 2018 by Michelle Head. While we try to ensure the accuracy of all information, times, and dates in this post, please confirm details for yourself!
Can you smell the sunscreen and bug spray? Are you stocking up on popsicles and pool snacks? A San Antonio summer is quickly approaching, and ACM is happy to provide you with a list of free and almost free summer activities. Get out and explore our great city!
Free Admission to Museums
The Witte: FREE! Tuesdays from 3:00–8:00 P.M.
San Antonio Museum of Art: FREE! Bexar County Residents Free General Admission Hours: Tuesday, 4 to 7 P.M. and Sunday from 10 AM to 7 P.M.
The DoSeum: FREE! Free Family Nights are the FIRST Monday of the Month. A link for ticket reservations will be posted the morning of Free Family Night. Registration is on a first-come, first-served basis. RSVP is required for all Guests – including Members.
The McNay Art Museum: FREE! Thursdays from 4:00–9:00 P.M. courtesy of H-E-B, and the first Sunday of every month from Noon to 5 p.m., courtesy of the Dickson Allen Foundation; free general admission (special exhibits: $10).
Briscoe Western Art Museum: FREE! on Locals Days
FYI – Many San Antonio museums participate in Museums for All – Recipients of SNAP, WIC, and MAP receive free general admission through Museums for All, a cooperative which encourages families of all backgrounds to visit museums. Simply present an EBT card and a photo ID. Offer is valid for up to four people for each EBT card presented. Check the link for details and specific days, hours, or requirements.
Summer Movies
Santikos Theaters: FREE! Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00 A.M. at seven area locations.
Regal Theaters: $1 per ticket! Tuesdays and Wednesdays at 10:00 A.M. from June 12–August 8 at four area locations.
Alamo Drafthouse: $1–3 per ticket! Monday–Thursday at one of the three area locations. Showtimes are at 10:30 or 11:00 A.M.
Movies by Moonlight at Travis Park: FREE! Tuesday nights. Pre-entertainment at 7:30 P.M., movie starts at 8:30 P.M. More information here.
Free Movies at the Marquee (Mission Marquee): FREE! Various evening dates throughout June, July, and August. Movie starts after dusk.
HEB Cinema on the Plaza at The Tobin Center: FREE! Every second Friday. Plaza opens at 7:00 P.M., movie starts at 8:00 P.M. Check website for dates.
Summer Reading Programs
Barnes and Noble: FREE! Return this completed form to Barnes and Noble for a free book.
Chuck E. Cheese: FREE! Return this completed form to Chuck E. Cheese for 10 free tokens.
Half Price Books: FREE! Return this completed form to Half Price Books.
San Antonio Public Library: FREE! Check out what the library is offering this summer!
Splash Pads + Swimming Pools
Yanaguana Gardens at Hemisphere Park: FREE! Open daily from 7:00 A.M.–midnight.
The Pearl Splash Pad: FREE! Open daily.
Pearsall Park: FREE! Open daily from 9:00 A.M.–9:00 P.M.
Fischer Park in New Braunfels: FREE! Open daily 9 A.M. – 9 P.M., from the Friday before Spring Break through October 31st, weather permitting
San Antonio swimming pools: FREE! 23 locations; see website for information on specific pools.
City of San Antonio Splash Pads: FREE! City splash pads are open daily from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Story Times
The Twig Book Shop: FREE! Summer Fridays at 9:30 A.M. and 10:30 A.M.
San Antonio Public Library: FREE! Multiple daily options throughout the city.
Barnes and Noble: FREE! Wednesdays and Saturdays at the Northwoods location. Check the website for details.
Hemisfair: FREE! Tuesday mornings at 10:00 A.M. in the Central Games Plaza.
SAS Factory Tour
FREE! The SAS Factory offers free tours Monday–Friday. Read more here.
San Antonio Missions
FREE! All San Antonio Missions have free admission.
San Antonio Public Library
FREE! The San Antonio Public Library has multiple free events and activities each week throughout the city.
San Antonio Parks
FREE! San Antonio is home to more than 240 city parks. Click here to read ACM’s guide to San Antonio Parks.
The Rollercade
Tuesdays are Bargain Day: $4 admission and $4 skate rental on Tuesdays from 11:00 A.M.–11:00 P.M.
Toyota Factory Tours
FREE! Tours are offered Monday–Friday year-round, and reservations are required.
More ideas for summer fun:
ACM’s Ultimate Guide to Summer in San Antonio
Free bowling for kids when you sign up at kidsbowlfree.com. One bowling center in SA and one in New Braunfels are participants.
FYI from the Rollercade’s website
Bargain day is 4:00-10:00
Thanks!