Hemisfair

Hemisfair is downtown San Antonio's crown jewel public space — a beautifully designed urban park that has become one of the city's most beloved gathering places for families, friends, and visitors. With 16,328 Google reviews at a 4.7-star rating, the numbers speak to just how deeply embedded this park is in San Antonio family life.

The site of the 1968 World's Fair has been thoughtfully revitalized into a mixed-use urban park featuring manicured lawns, public art, water features, event spaces, and most importantly for families: Yanaguana Garden, a dedicated children's play area with interactive playground structures, a splash pad, and open space that makes it one of downtown's best free family destinations.

The splash pad operates seasonally in summer — a godsend in San Antonio's heat — providing free water play in a downtown setting. Children can run through water jets while parents relax on the surrounding lawn. Combined with the playground equipment and open green space, a family can easily spend 2-3 hours at Hemisfair without spending anything beyond food.

The park's location in the downtown core puts it adjacent to the River Walk, within walking distance of the Alamo, and a short distance from the Pearl District. Food trucks and vendors operate frequently on weekends, and the park hosts regular community events including markets, concerts, and seasonal festivals.

Parking is not free in the downtown area — plan to pay for parking or use a rideshare. The River Walk walk to Hemisfair makes a pleasant approach if you're already in the downtown tourist corridor.

Open from 5AM to midnight daily, the park accommodates early risers and evening strollers with equal generosity.