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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Downtown's best

Relaxing fun activities

You want to spend your downtime doing something that is actually fun. You are looking for an activity that helps you decompress without feeling like a chore.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Devils River Whiskey Distillery image 1
Devils River Whiskey Distillery image 2
Devils River Whiskey Distillery image 3
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Early 1900s building hosts a vintage atmosphere with stunning chandeliers and leather chairs. Live music fills the space, while a quiet speakeasy area offers a calm retreat. The venue balances lively energy with cozy spots for relaxation and socializing.

A relaxing atmosphere with live music sets a calm mood. Guests can enjoy a whiskey and cigar while playing cornhole or watching the game.

Live music and a friendly atmosphere create a lively setting. The tour and tasting offer engaging and enjoyable experiences with knowledgeable guides.

People are saying

"The whiskey here was phenomenal and some of the best I've ever tasted."

"It's a chill spot with a really fun atmosphere."

"The tour and tasting was super fun."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers drinks for only $4, making it a great deal.

2

The venue is suitable for weddings and private events.

3

The distillery has a dog-friendly patio, but not inside.

02
Go Rio River Boat Tours San Antonio image 1

Boat tours glide along a winding river framed by multicolored lights and decorated trees, creating a peaceful, romantic atmosphere. Evening cruises showcase glowing boats and illuminated bridges, enhancing the scenic views. Spacious boats often feature live music, adding to the relaxed vibe.

Floating along the river offers a relaxing atmosphere with beautiful scenery and a friendly, knowledgeable guide. Evening rides feature glowing boats and a magical, calm vibe.

River boat tours offer great views and bring the area to life with fun and informative narration. Guides like Bobby and Jose make the experience entertaining and educational.

People are saying

"The boat tours here are so informative and entertaining."

"The river cruise is a relaxing spot with magical evening lights."

"The tour guides make it fun with jokes and history."

Good to know

1

You can buy tickets online or before entering the boat.

2

Expect long lines on weekends for the boat tour.

3

The tour lasts 35 minutes and costs $20 per person.

03
GO RIO San Antonio River Cruises image 1

Boat cruises glide along tranquil waters offering breathtaking views of city skylines, bridges, and historic architecture. The atmosphere is peaceful and scenic, with elegant lighting and festive decorations enhancing the experience. Cruises attract those seeking relaxation and unique perspectives on the riverwalk and its surroundings.

Boat rides offer a relaxing cruise through lush greenery and calm waters. Tours combine peaceful moments with informative commentary for a soothing experience.

Boat tours offer a fun adventure with a fast ride along the riverwalk. Guides share lots of history while cruising past shoppes and restaurants, making it enjoyable for all ages.

People are saying

"The guides shared so many fun historical facts about the sites."

"The guides here are so fun and knowledgeable."

"This relaxing spot offers a smooth, informative boat tour."

Good to know

1

Booking the tour in advance helps avoid long lines.

2

The cruise lasts about 45 minutes and covers key historical sites.

3

The total cost of the cruise is approximately $16, including taxes.

04
The Rose of San Antonio image 1

Cocktail bar offers live music with a chill atmosphere and ambient lighting. Seating includes couches and comfy chairs alongside high top tables and a well-stocked bar. The vibe is relaxed yet upscale, drawing a crowd that enjoys well-crafted drinks and good tunes.

Smooth, mature bar offers a relaxing atmosphere with live music almost every weekend. A Pinot Grigio complements the vibe, making it easy to unwind after a busy day.

A fun atmosphere fills the space with great live music setting the tone. The overall vibe stays fun and lively throughout.

People are saying

"The bar's craft cocktails were excellent and reasonably priced."

"It's a smooth, quiet place to relax and enjoy the vibe."

"You have to try their drinks; they taste like dessert!"

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with budget-friendly drink specials.

2

Live jazz performances occur every Friday and Saturday night starting at 9pm.

3

The bar offers a late-night cocktail experience until 2am on weekends.

05
Roadmap Brewing Co. image 1

Taproom combines visible brewing equipment with dog-friendly spaces and casual games, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Large, open layout offers room to relax or watch sports without loud noise. Food trucks outside serve noted burgers, complementing the highly regarded beer selection.

Plenty of room lets people spread out and relax comfortably. The vibe stays friendly and laid-back, making it easy to enjoy a cold beer and hang out with friends.

Staff create a fun environment with games. Playing putt-putt offers a lively way to spend an afternoon. The venue adds a great asset for downtown activities.

People are saying

"The beers here are tasty and unique."

"The beer selection here is great, with a variety of options."

"I found the beer here to be great."

Good to know

1

Coffee is served from 8AM to 3PM, and beer starts at 10AM on Sundays.

2

Happy hour prices are available with great specials on weekdays.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm.

06
River North Icehouse image 1

Large revitalized warehouse with spacious indoor and outdoor areas features hanging greenery, paper lanterns, and disco balls. Energetic atmosphere thrives with live music, DJs, and big screens showing sports and games. Outdoor patio offers food trucks, lawn games, and ample seating, creating a community-centered vibe.

Offers a relaxed atmosphere ideal for meaningful gatherings. Serves as a fun spot to meet friends and unwind.

Music features a throwback pop/punk remixes and Latin remixes playlist. DJ Jaz keeps the vibe lively, making the night very fun.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and accommodating."

"I had so much fun, the vibe was great."

"The team here makes your big day feel special and stress-free."

Good to know

1

Open mic night is every Wednesday at 9:00 PM.

2

Game day specials are available for Texans fans.

3

Live music and a DJ are featured from Thursday to Saturday nights.

07
Hops & Hounds image 1

Outdoor space combines a large off-leash dog park with shaded seating areas and food trucks. Atmosphere stays welcoming and lively, filled with dogs, live music, and sports on big screens. People come to relax, socialize, and enjoy drinks like margarita flights alongside their pets.

A unique spot where people relax outside with drinks while their dogs play freely. It offers a dog-friendly atmosphere, food trucks, and a welcoming vibe for socializing or unwinding after a long day.

An amazing bark and play space offers plenty of room and activities for dogs of all sizes. The outdoor bar and food truck area adds a fun and open vibe to the experience.

People are saying

"The dog park here is huge and well-maintained."

"It's a fun place with a great dog park for playful pups."

"It's a great relaxing spot to bring your dog and have some drinks."

Good to know

1

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 7pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Live music events occur every Friday and Saturday night starting at 8pm.

3

The dog park requires downloading an app and purchasing a day pass for $5.

08
Lo Cura image 1

Bar under a bridge along the riverwalk offers river views and water misting fans that keep the area cool. Atmosphere blends chic and fun vibes with lively energy, especially at the riverfront bar where people watch and boats pass by.

Calm and welcoming atmosphere supports a relaxed meal and easygoing people watching. Friendly staff provide attentive service that keeps the mood low key and comfortable.

Outdoor venue offers a fun atmosphere with lively vibes and music. Drinks include beer and popsicles that add to the enjoyment.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are amazing and make you feel so welcome."

"The staff here makes it a truly relaxing spot with their friendly service."

"The service here is amazing and personable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11 AM to 5 PM with $5 beers and tacos.

2

The happy hour walking tacos cost $5.

3

Grab a seat at the bar when Ben is working for great service.

09
Hopscotch San Antonio image 1
Tourist attraction

Exhibits combine interactive art, optical illusions, and immersive sound to create a visually and sensually stimulating environment. Visitors move through distinct rooms featuring ball pits, trampolines, and unique installations that invite playful exploration. A bar with specialty cocktails allows drinks to accompany the experience, blending social and artistic elements.

A playful, vibrant atmosphere creates a very relaxed feel. The bar offers great choices and the color room lets you sit on the floor and unwind as colors shift.

Unique and family-friendly activities create a lively atmosphere. The experience offers engaging fun that stands out among outings.

People are saying

"It's a fun and interactive experience for all ages."

"It's a fun, interactive art gallery that kids really enjoy."

"The color room is a truly relaxing spot with soothing, changing colors."

Good to know

1

The entry fee is about $25 per person, with parking available downtown.

2

You need to sign a waiver before enjoying the activities.

3

Tickets should be bought in advance to avoid waiting, especially on busy weekends.

10
Downstairs at Esquire Tavern image 1

Speakeasy-style cocktail lounge with dark, moody ambiance and cozy, classic decor creates a laid-back, quiet atmosphere ideal for relaxing or intimate conversations. The space features hard-to-find bourbons and craft cocktails, attracting those seeking a chill spot for pre-dinner drinks or nightcaps.

Quiet and chill atmosphere offers a great spot to relax. It serves as an escape from the heat and a calm place to wait or unwind after dinner.

Downstairs offers a fun holiday bar vibe with a Christmas pop-up that adds to the festive atmosphere. The overall setting creates a holiday-themed evening that feels lively and enjoyable.

People are saying

"The cocktails are perfectly balanced and beautifully presented."

"It was a fun holiday-themed evening at the Christmas pop-up."

"It's a quiet, chill spot to escape the heat and relax."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to visit the downstairs bar at Esquire Tavern.

2

Expect a 1.5-hour time limit for your stay during busy hours.

3

The bar does not serve food, so plan to eat before or after your visit.

11
Durty Nelly's Irish Pub image 1

Small Irish pub with live piano music and a lively party atmosphere along the riverwalk. Interior features authentic Irish decor and a wall honoring service members, creating a space that fills up on weekend nights. Outdoor seating and a rooftop lounge add variety to the experience.

Riverside seating offers a calm spot to sit back with a drink and meal. The Irish pub interior creates a cozy, relaxing vibe with a piano man adding to the laid-back atmosphere.

Live piano music creates a fun sing-along atmosphere with ad lib performances that energize the crowd. The place offers great camaraderie and lively entertainment, especially during busy weekends.

People are saying

"The piano sing-alongs here are so much fun."

"The piano player was hilarious and took requests."

"The live piano music here is a truly relaxing spot."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, so arrive early to secure a seat.

2

The pub gets very crowded on weekend nights, especially during performances.

3

The piano man performance is a highlight, often featuring sing-alongs.

12
Mala Fama Bar & Nightclub image 1

Bar with balcony patio overlooking riverwalk offers a cool atmosphere with live DJs upstairs creating great vibes. The space combines air conditioning and awesome decor for a comfortable, trendy spot to enjoy music and drinks.

Warm and welcoming atmosphere with beautiful river views creates a relaxed yet lively vibe. The entire place feels cozy and inviting, perfect for unwinding.

Fun vibes fill the atmosphere with a clean and lively energy. Fast and funny interactions add to the overall fun experience at the bar.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is excellent."

"The atmosphere here is so fun and clean."

"The vibe here is so relaxing and welcoming."

Good to know

1

Karaoke nights happen every Thursday starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Taco Tuesday features $2 tacos and drink specials all night.

3

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

13
Historic Market Square image 1

Outdoor and indoor market spaces showcase authentic Mexican artifacts and colorful decorations. Live music fills the air, creating a lively and fun atmosphere that keeps people dancing. Food vendors and shops offer traditional Mexican snacks and drinks, enhancing the vibrant cultural experience.

Cute outside area invites relaxing walks and casual shopping. Refreshingly cheap beer adds to the easy, lively vibe for unwinding indoors or outdoors.

Live music and street art create a lively backdrop. Endless shops offer food and fun fashions in a family-friendly atmosphere.

People are saying

"This Mexican market feels authentic with beautiful handicrafts and local food."

"I found lots of fun and cool shops and great food to eat here."

"It's a great Relaxing Spot for walking around and enjoying the cool air."

Good to know

1

During Fiesta week, expect live music and dance performances at Historic Market Square.

2

Parking can be difficult to find due to ongoing construction in the area.

3

The market features a variety of unique handmade gifts and local art.

14
Shops at Rivercenter image 1

Multilevel indoor mall connects directly to a lively riverwalk with beautiful river views and stunning architecture. Bright, spacious layout supports a family-friendly atmosphere with indoor play areas, a cinema, and interactive attractions. The environment feels lively and inviting, blending modern design with rich heritage.

Many spots along the river walk offer a calm atmosphere to unwind. Several areas provide places to relax and eat while enjoying the view. The mall is not crowded, making it easy to take your time and enjoy the surroundings.

Plenty of shops with unique vibes create a fun spot to explore. Reviewing the history of the Titanic adds an engaging adventure.

People are saying

"I found the mall's atmosphere great."

"It's a lot of fun with plenty of things to do for all ages."

"It's a lovely place to spend a relaxing afternoon by the river."

Good to know

1

Parking costs a minimum of $10 at the Shops at Rivercenter.

2

There is $5 parking available around the area.

3

The mall is located in the heart of downtown San Antonio along the River Walk.

15
San Antonio Museum of Art image 1

Converted 1880s brewery creates a historic atmosphere with spacious, accessible layout and thoughtfully curated art collections. Calm and peaceful energy invites slow reflection, though school groups can bring noise. Unique Latin American and global artifacts stand out among diverse exhibits.

Quiet galleries offer a relaxing atmosphere with air conditioning and beautiful art. Close to the River Walk, it provides a peaceful setting ideal for slowing down and reflecting.

Lots of educational fun fills the space with exhibits and activities. A brewery collection adds a local twist, and a new members program offers a wide range of fun and educational activities.

People are saying

"The art museum has a beautiful and diverse collection from around the world."

"I found the exhibits here to be super fun and cool."

"It's a calm, cool place to slow down and enjoy the art."

Good to know

1

Bexar County residents can enter for free on Tuesdays from 4 to 7 pm and Sundays from 10 am to noon.

2

There is a paid parking lot opposite the museum.

3

The Art on Tap evenings are suitable for all ages, featuring live music and activities for kids and adults.

16
Rita's on the River image 1

Restaurant offers great views of the Riverwalk with a loud, hectic, and fun atmosphere energized by an outstanding DJ. Guests enjoy top-notch margaritas and some of the best guacamole, queso, and tacos around.

Seating right by the river creates a super relaxing vibe. Outdoor tables along the water offer a vibrant, charming atmosphere perfect for unwinding after a long day.

Fun atmosphere stands out with a lively vibe. Servers bring engaging energy that adds to the overall Tex Mex experience on the River Walk.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and came out fast and hot."

"It's a blast hanging out with friends and sharing jokes here."

"The evening bartenders, Frank, Alex, and Jess, were great people."

Good to know

1

Rita's on the River offers a 10% discount for military personnel.

2

Expect high prices, with tacos costing around $18 for four.

3

The kitchen may run out of popular menu items like pork and quesadillas.

17
Travis Park image 1

Park offers quiet, family-friendly atmosphere with shady trees and ample seating. Seasonal ice skating rink and holiday lights add festive charm. Visitors enjoy historic buildings and open spaces for events and picnics.

Open spaces with plenty of places to sit create a calm and relaxing atmosphere. The spot stays safe and quiet, making it easy to relax away from crowds or enjoy some local culture.

Events like the zombie walk and fall festival offer family-friendly fun with food and activities. An ice skating rink adds seasonal excitement, making it a lively spot for all ages.

People are saying

"Travis Park is a beautiful place, especially with the Christmas lights."

"I found Travis Park to be a fun place for family activities."

"It's a beautiful urban oasis, a great spot to relax."

Good to know

1

Every Tuesday, ice skating at Travis Park costs only $7.

2

Travis Park hosts community events like outdoor movie nights and live music.

3

Free face painting is available during Christmas activities at the park.

18
Idle Beer Hall & Brewery image 1

Big open-air conditioned brewery with pool tables, arcade games, and a huge dog-friendly outdoor patio creates a lively, chill atmosphere. Stylish wood-beamed design adds an old world feel without pretension. Crowd enjoys cold, excellent beer alongside casual games and live music.

Very relaxing environment with a new feel. Great for spending time with family and friends while catching up.

Fun games available for play add to the indoor atmosphere. The venue offers great beer and attracts a good crowd for hanging out.

People are saying

"I found the beer here to be amazing and delicious."

"They had fun activities like air hockey, skee ball, and pinball."

"The staff here are friendly and helpful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with great deals on drinks.

2

Karaoke takes place every Tuesday night, starting at 8 PM.

3

The brewery allows food from the adjacent market but has a strict no outside drink policy.

19
Hugman's Oasis image 1

Tiki bar offers tropical escapism vibe with fantastic decor and a riverside patio that provides great views. Atmosphere stays relaxing and quiet, with cool music enhancing the mood. Drinks include some of the best tiki cocktails and a notable rum selection, complemented by unique food like furikake fries and Spam Musubi.

Quiet atmosphere and river views create a relaxing vibe. Great food and drinks add to the calm environment for unwinding.

A tropical escape with a fun tiki bar vibe offers great drinks and a lively atmosphere. The spot delivers consistent good energy and a unique, enjoyable experience.

People are saying

"This tiki bar's immersive atmosphere transports you far away."

"It's a wonderful, quiet spot with a relaxing vibe."

"It's a fun tiki bar with great drinks and a tropical vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs from 4pm to 6pm, Monday through Friday.

2

Expect a busy bar during Happy Hour; standing room only is common.

3

The bar has both indoor and outdoor seating options available.

20
The Republic of Texas Restaurant image 1

Dining alongside the flowing river creates a bright, lively atmosphere with live Mexican and country music enhancing the experience. The space offers indoor and outdoor seating with unbeatable river views attracting families, couples, and solo diners. Strong, flavorful margaritas and a diverse menu complement the festive vibe.

Beautiful views of the River Walk create a calming atmosphere. Friendly and humorous service adds to the relaxing vibe while enjoying a delicious meal.

Engaging staff and a live band create a relaxed and fun atmosphere. Karaoke singers add to the lively vibe, making it a spot where people enjoy food, drinks, and good times.

People are saying

"Our server Jordan was amazing and provided an awesome dining experience."

"It's a beautiful and relaxing spot by the river."

"It's a fun place with a lively, energetic atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour is available all day long.

2

The restaurant is dog friendly.

3

Expect no wait for a table during off-peak hours.

21
Bubba Gump Shrimp Co. image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with Forrest Gump themed decor and riverwalk views creates a picturesque atmosphere. Indoor and outdoor seating offer a clean, relaxed vibe with moderate noise and positive energy. Occasional character appearances and a souvenir shop add to the experience.

Good food pairs with a relaxed atmosphere and a calm view. The setting feels very peaceful and easygoing.

Trivia games led by Paul bring a fun twist to meals. Bubba Shrimp appears for photo ops, adding to the lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the fried shrimp; it was the best I'd had in a long time."

"I had so much fun playing trivia during dinner."

"I found the atmosphere here to be very relaxing."

Good to know

1

Trivia night occurs every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

2

Expect a short wait time even on busy Saturday nights.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

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