San Antonio Botanical Garden

The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a beautiful oasis in the heart of the city. Founded in 1980, the garden features native and exotic plants, a spectacular weekend farmers market, educational programs for all ages, and much more. Here are a few things to keep in mind when planning a visit to this local gem in San Antonio TX.

What to See
There’s something for everyone at the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Stroll through the 14-acre Native Texas Forest, unwind in the Japanese Garden, or explore the Sunken Gardens—a former quarry that’s been transformed into a lush space with amazing views of the city skyline. Be sure to check out the beautiful McKee Chapel while you’re there. Built in 1917, it’s one of the oldest structures in the garden and serves as a popular spot for weddings and other special events.

When to Go
The San Antonio Botanical Garden is open year-round, but there are certain times of year that are more ideal for visits. Spring is a great time to see the flowers in bloom, while fall offers beautiful foliage and cooler temperatures. The farmers market is held every Saturday from 9am-1pm, so that’s another thing to keep in mind when planning your trip.

Tips for Visiting
There are a few things you should know before heading to the garden. First, it’s located in a residential neighborhood, so be mindful of noise levels and traffic when entering and exiting the property. You may have some delays and you should definitely drive with your head on a swivel looking for, children playing, pets and pedestrians in the area.  Second, although you might think it would be ok to bring your  pup along, unfortunately dogs are not allowed in the gardens (with the exception of service animals), so leave Fido at home for this outing. Finally, due to its popularity, parking can be limited on weekends—arrive early or carpool with friends to ensure you snag a spot.

Conclusion:
Whether you’re looking for a place to escape the hustle and bustle of city life or you want to enjoy some of nature’s finest offerings, the San Antonio Botanical Garden is definitely worth a visit. From its sprawling gardens to its charming chapel, this local treasure has something for everyone—so be sure to add it to your list of must-see places in San Antonio!

If you are looking to do a little spelunking lite style, then you should definitely take a trip over and see the San Antonio Natural Bridge Caverns!  You never know what you’ll see there, perhaps you’ll even encounter the legendary chupacabra!!