I began my adventures in Southtown back in college, occasionally venturing out for First Fridays, but never did much else in the neighborhood until I moved to the area more than 10 years ago. I grew up on the Northwest Side of San Antonio, and to my family, places like Downtown were a world away. Now I live on the Southeast Side, and Downtown and Southtown are my jam. I love bringing my kids out to enjoy everything going on in the area, too. Here are some of my favorite family-friendly spots in and around Southtown.
The Friendly Spot (943 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 | (210) 224-2337)—With friendly written in its name, The Friendly Spot is at the top of my list for family-friendly places to take my kids. The seating is all outdoors, with two bars, a decent menu (I’m a sucker for their nachos), a playground, and the cutest colorful patio furniture.
Steel City Pops (812 South Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 | (210) 963-6540)—If you’d rather cool down, head over to Steel City Pops for a sweet Popsicle dressed to the nines in all the toppings you could ask for. There’s ample parking in the lot out front—and plenty of napkins for sticky fingers inside.
South Alamode (1420 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 | (210) 788-8000)—If a cone is more your thing, you’ll love the gelato over at South Alamode. The owners are from Italy, where they studied gelato making, and as friendly as can be. We love supporting this local Southtown business.
Roosevelt Park (331 Roosevelt, San Antonio, TX 78210 | (210) 207-7275)—Roosevelt Park is one of my favorite city parks, and one I used to frequent on a daily basis when my two middle kids were toddlers. There’s a nice big playground, plenty of shade, walking paths, and even a pool. And it’s right across from the San Antonio River if you want to go for a longer stroll.
Eagleland and Mission Reach River Walk—Speaking of rivers, I adore the stretch of the River Walk from Blue Star down to Mission Concepcion, which you can access easily from both Blue Star and Roosevelt Park. There are a number of places along the trail to view wildlife, and it’s great for a family bike ride.
Blue Star Contemporary (116 Blue Star, San Antonio, TX 78204 | (210) 227-6960)—If you’re looking to see some art, then Blue Star Contemporary is the place to go. Plus, they host a number of family-oriented events throughout the year. There are a number of art galleries in the Blue Star complex, but this is my favorite one to visit with kids.
SAY Sí (1518 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78204 | (210) 212-8666)—Home to an incredible youth arts program, SAY Sí is a wonderful place to find creative inspiration. Whether you’re looking for art education for kids or just want to see what the youth of our city are up to in the arts, this is the place to go. They’ve been an incredible resource for my oldest son, who has been in their arts program going on five years now.
The Magik Theatre (420 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 | (210) 227-2751)—This one is technically downtown, but it’s close enough to Southtown that I’m going to loop it in here. The Magik Theatre is the only children’s theatre in San Antonio, and they’ve been putting on incredible shows for nearly 25 years. This place is a real San Antonio gem.
Yanaguana Garden (434 S. Alamo St., San Antonio, TX 78205 | (210) 709-4750)—Located right next to The Magik Theatre and within Hemisfair Park, Yanaguana Garden is the ultimate playground for kids in San Antonio. From giant play structures, to splash pads and sand pits, and a lovely green field to hula hoop and watch outdoor movies in, you can never go wrong with a visit here at any time of day (or year). And a coffee shop right inside the park? Yes, please!
If you have yet to venture out of your neighborhood, I invite you to come on down to Southtown. There’s always lots to see and do with the entire family!
