There’s something to enjoy year-round in the Alamo City, but the season of wildflowers and perfect temperatures means it’s officially to spring into fun in San Antonio. From knights in armor to astronauts in space – and a bit of ice age exploration – there’s something for every interest to enjoy this season.
Whether you’re staycationing for spring break in San Antonio or hosting friends and family eager to explore all that the Alamo City has to offer, be sure to add these adventures to your spring itinerary. Looking for more fun? Check out ¿Que Pasa San Antonio? for the scoop on all the spring fun happening in San Antonio.
Suit Up at SAMA
In a suit of armor that is! Step back in time to the age of knights, and see the amazing metal work and artistry displayed in more than 80 works, including suits of armor and weapons from late medieval and early modern Europe on display at the San Antonio Museum of Art’s fantastic spring exhibition, “The Age of Armor: Treasures form the Higgins Armory Collection at the Worcester Art Museum.”
Full suits of armor and more help trace the evolution of armor in the 1300s and 1400s, in tandem with developments in metalworking technology and advances in weaponry. The exhibition includes fun, hands-on lessons to engage visitors (yes, you can play with chainmail!) and includes examples of the way some modern heroes like the Mandalorian and Iron Man sport armor too. And mark your calendar for a free spring break family day on March 12 with story time, hands-on artmaking and performances. The exhibition is on view through May 12, with family activities happening each month, including a free showing of the classic movie “Princess Bride” outdoors.
Head West at the Briscoe
Go West without leaving San Antonio, and enjoy daily activities at the Briscoe Western Art Museum. Normally closed on Tuesday and Wednesday, extended hours during spring break mean the Briscoe will be open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. each day from March 7 – 18, giving everyone the opportunity to lasso some Western fun this spring. With the museum’s location in the heart of the River Walk, it’s a great stop for families exploring downtown.
The museum is also hosting its annual Spring Break Roundup March 11-16. Art and craft activities, building with LEGOs, stories and fun capture the excitement and adventure of the West for all ages. The come-and-go family programs include activities that celebrate the heritage and culture of the American West. Different activities will be available each day, bringing the West to life in a variety of hands-on ways. Children 12 and under and active duty military members always receive free admission to the Briscoe, making it a wonderful destination for family fun.
Survive Space at the Witte
A new, out-of-this-world exhibition brings a whole space lab full of scientific discovery and fun to the Witte Museum. Experience life as an astronaut, see real NASA artifacts—including the flight suit worn by Dr. Ellen Ochoa, the first Hispanic woman to go to space—and learn how scientists are defending Earth from future asteroid impacts. Surviving Space: Astronauts & Asteroids is on display through September 2.
The exhibition explores what happens when mysterious objects from space collide with Earth. Travel back 66 million years to the time when Cretaceous Texas had a front-row seat to the arrival of a massive meteorite that wiped out 75% of all life on Earth, ending the reign of the dinosaurs. Then explore the physical and mental challenges involved in space exploration. That includes experiencing g-force, conducting maintenance on a space station and the realities of showering, sleeping and using the toilet in space (spoiler alert: yes, you can sit on a space toilet).
Victory or Death at the Alamo
The Alamo is an iconic piece of Texas history, but don’t miss the return of the Travis Letter, where Texan hero William B. Travis issued his passionate plea for help for the Alamo garrison. “To the People of Texas and All Americans in the World,” the letter ended with “Victory or Death” – a symbol of unyielding resolve and a true part of Texas history. On loan from the Texas State Library and Archives Commission, the letter will be on display through March 24. Note: the Alamo’s Ralston Family Collections Center will open its doors to the public at no cost March 18 and 19, 1 – 5 p.m.
Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus at Magik Theatre
Add some fowl fun to your spring break at Magik Theatre. See a beloved children’s story come to life and hop on board for an unforgettable ride with the Pigeon in Don’t Let the Pigeon Drive the Bus! The Musical! In this feather-filled extravaganza based on Mo Willems’ bestselling books, the Pigeon is back and he’s ready to take the stage. When the Bus Driver has a crisis that threatens to make her passengers late, the wily bird sees his chance to take the wheel. With an innovative mix of actors, puppets, and feathers, this production brings the beloved characters to life like never before. The show closes March 17, so flock to Magik while you can! (See what we did there??)
Chill out in the Ice Age at the Zoo
Experience a journey through time at San Antonio Zoo’s newest attraction, Giants of the Ice Age! This immersive experience brings to life 10 larger-than-life Ice Age creatures that once roamed the earth, from the towering woolly mammoths to the mighty saber-toothed tiger. Explore the fascinating adaptations of these ancient animals. There are also specialty food and photo ops for everyone to enjoy – including a ride down the giant Ice Age slide and an adventurous obstacle course. The exhibition is tucked behind the zoo parking garage at the San Antonio Safari and Adventure Park through May 5. And the great news? This adventure is included with standard zoo admission and is FREE for members.
Go Green on the River Walk
Enjoy the luck of the Irish and celebrate St. Patrick’s Day downtown. Enjoy the River Walk and see the San Antonio River go green thanks to 25 gallons of eco-friendly green dye. As the river turns emerald green, enjoy the river parades March 16 & 17, as well as music, family-friendly activities and more at La Villita Historic Village.
So spring into fun in San Antonio – and for more fun, don’t miss these other San Antonio “Musts”.
