What a great zoo. Reasonably priced. Wide variety of animals that seem to be well cared for. Family friendly activities available to interact with the animals for an additional fee. $3 to feed the giraffes. It is undergoing improvements, so some construction to work around. Beautiful day😎 Free parking across the street.

We went here for a little adventure while on our honeymoon. We had a great time. We felt the zoo was overall very clean and the staff were incredibly friendly and helpful. The animals all appeared to be well cared for including: lots of feed, healthy coats/feathers, well kept habitats with lots of space, and more. There was a large variety of animals to view and learn about; from all over the globe. It was 1000% worth the 40 minute drive from south padre. We look forward to sharing it with our kids one day!

We visited Gladys Porter Zoo on Father's Day this past Sunday. It is summertime and it gets hot by 11am so we decided to get there as early as possible. It was nice because there was no wait for the line. The big cats were still sleeping, but we were able to still catch a glance at them. We were hoping to see the otters, bears, and bald eagles, but they were not available that day. That was alright with us because we still saw many animals. They had plenty of vending machines and snacks bars available so you don't have to worry about food. We bought an Icee and a Gatorade because it really started getting pretty hot towards the middle of our journey. It took us about 2 hours to get around the whole park. We have a ten and five year old and we took a wagon for them to ride, so I highly recommend taking something of the sort to parents. The aquarium and the reptile areas are so beautiful, especially the aquarium. The jellyfish are so colorful and breathtaking! We had two free child passes our kids got from their schools so between my husband and I the entrance fee was $40.

We went to the zoo this weekend, the first weekend they operated their Soaring Eagle zipline. Yes, it’s amazing and it probably goes a little higher than you might think. The tickets were $8 per person and you need to buy them at the entrance. The wait time was about 45 minutes and the ride lasts about 35 seconds. Video and photos of the ride are sold online for $12 for both. It’s definitely worth it. Everyone loved and raved about it. The views from the top are stunning. Gives you a shot of dopamine! Shout out to the women employees running a very smooth operation on Sunday, July 13. The line was handled efficiently and expediently with courteous manner. Sounds easy, but with the heat, an endless line and crying kids, it takes some professionalism and patience to pull it off. Thank you, ladies!

Surprisingly good zoo in Brownsville. I was impressed with the different animals and their habitats. It was almost empty but clearly is set up for large crowds. Definitely visit, even from Harlingen or padre Island.

It was ok. Animals were just chillin around. Zoo is large enough to take around 2 hours to fully walk through, a lil more if you take your time. Overall it was a good time and lil kids will definitely enjoy. Full disclosure we visited on a $2 per person ticket day and also this was my first visit after nearly 20 years. They don't have elephants anymore.

I’ve been coming here my whole life, and I have to say it’s been amazing to see it improve and consistently have people who care about the animals, and love their job, the entire time. Being able to visit here helped me realize my passion was working with animals, and that’s something I’m immensely grateful for. They have a variety of cafes that are open on some parts of the year, some of the snacks are overpriced but I think they’re always worth it. There’s two gift shops and both are really nice! They have books, shirts, mugs, jewelry, plushies, toys, water bottles, basically everything. The animal enclosures themselves are super nice. They offer all kinds of enrichment and some feeding opportunities for the critters! I think the herpetarium is definitely the most beautiful exhibit, as well as the aquarium. Also, I love the kangaroos (as you can tell.) I spend atleast 20 minutes watching them every time. They’re so cute! So yes, this place is definitely worth the visit. 🦘❤️

Very friendly people at the visitors center, we had interesting birds showing up as soon as we arrived! The feeder walk has a pretty variety, and the other trails and even the roads going to and from the refuge also proved to be fascinating and full of wildlife, even on a rainy and windy day!

All the buildings were closed due to the government shutdown? But someone was still maintaining the restrooms and the park was still open. It was a really nice park and we enjoyed visiting and seeing the wildlife there.

Beautiful views and well maintained trails. Very clean.

This was such a great place to explore. The visitor center has an excellent path to a blind for bird watching. I appreciated all the signs that cautioned about encountering wildlife, so my companion and I walked only a very small part of the trails. We drove to the lookout over the lagoon and were not disappointed; it’s quite beautiful, and there are many birds to see. Driving away slowly from the lookout, we saw an ocelot cross the road about 30 yards ahead of us. Go slowly, and you’ll be amazed.

We had an amazing time! Full moon view.

This is one of my favorite places to visit. So much wildlife to see. We ride the 14 mile loop on our bikes and are never disappointed.

Able to see many different birds in the blinds surrounding the visitor center. We able to see the Harris Hawk, Black tuffed Titmouse, Green Jays, Red Winged Blackbirds, starlings and Golden Fronted Woodpeckers. BUT the best was the visitor center. The staff is incredibly friendly and knowledgeable! And don’t forget the shop which has wonderful merchandise… kudos to this great sanctuary. Well worth the visit!

It's an outlet mall that is outdoors. They have some covered walkways. We saw security zipping around on a three wheeler. None of the stores post their hours. Their bathrooms are fair. There is a food court but we did not stop. Large parking lot with some shade.

Good food, but the air-conditioning in the food court was not on. Spoke to an employee in the food court and said that air-conditioning has been broken for a month. I can't believe that any business will allow this to happen.!

Good place to visit. Personally I still believe that is a bit pricy given that are an outlet mall On the other hand there's stores direct from the brand such as Adidas, CK, Fossil and have products not easily found at other stores. Good tip here is that on vacation seasons, many of the stores have online offers that you can combine with other promos in store and get good deals sometimes

Pretty okay, I like it, but in the summer it's WAYY to hot to be walking so I recommend bringing a little fan for you to cool and also wear shorts. also a little warning whenever I walk through some areas it literally smells like dog poop and it disgusts me.

The stores are nice, if you’re a person who doesn’t tolerate hot weather then you should be careful about this place considering that is an open space. You have a lot of brands and a lot of stores, so please take your time so you can check and compare prices, try the clothes and enjoy the view. They do have sales and good discounts, just read the conditions. Be aware that you will feel thirsty, but don’t worry, you can find spots with good snacks, they sell ice cream, corns, Cheetos, etc.

Its ok. Many empty stores. Prices can be good..some not. You think word Outlet and hope its cheaper.. NOT. Be ready to sweat. Its outdoor halls.

Good selection of stores but most are past season

Very knowledgeable staff on hand, 1/2 hr documentary video about the battle for Iwo Jima (sulfur island). Very informative & interesting.

A great stop for a dose of local and national history. The grounds are very well kept and everything is in walking distance. There are a few places to sit and take in the scenery and honor this place holds. The staff are so very kind and knowledgeable and willing to share lots of history or let you read on your own if you prefer.

I’m ashamed to admit that I’ve lived here my whole life and this is the first time I stop by. It was very touching. Please don’t do what I did. Just swing by. There’s also a little museum and gift shop. Wonderful people running it.

I always love visiting this memorial. I also needed some new Marine Corps shirts and caps. Larger than life memorial. SEMPER FI.

The history of WWII up close & within touch. The 32 minute documentary of Iwo Jima keeps you mesmerized and helps you realize the importance of this battle in the south pacific. The actual statue is majestic & beautiful and makes you feel how important our flag is to our freedom. God Bless and Enjoy this little nook of history in Harlingen Tx.

This Monument and museum are must sees for anyone with an interest in the history of the war in the Pacific. It was a surprise to know that this monument was the casting for the Iwo Jima Memorial in Arlington and was donated by the artist.

Amazing!!! A must visit when in the area. Not only do you see the original casting of the flag raising, but the historic museum. The staff are very friendly and knowledgeable and are willing to talk with you about the history. Gift shop available.

This place is so adorable and we didn’t even knew it was there until we got the opportunity to participate in this amazing event they do every year called Monarch Fest. We were glad that we were part of the vendors this year. It’s a beautiful place to all the family to enjoy. The house is full of history, I’m sharing a photo of the original owners face sculpted in a square of the front door. The the original wood on ceilings, the floor, the gardens and plants, the bird singing… it feels like you are in another place and era. We were in our booth and we saw a small snake crossing in front of people from one side to the other. I really want to thank the people who work preserving and taking care of this place Definitely you must visit this place and enjoy the different activities they have in their calendar.

It was something so beautiful. I had so much fun walking the trails 👣 there is a lot to see and enjoy. I loved it.

Really cool historical home. Went mid October and they decorated their nature trail with so many awesome decorations. Loved seeing the historical bathroom with a tile tub. Everyone was nice. Great place to visit if you're in town.

This adobe mansion and gardens is a treasure! There are bronze animal statues all throughout the walking trails. The Chacalacas are in mating season and communicating very loudly! The house from the 1930's is gorgeous. A major expansion is coming in 2026. Parking is scarce now. Come early.

Another great place/park/little museum to wander through. Saw lots of birds and my first view of a Chacalaca. Yes it's a thing! Friendly and helpful staff let you know where to go for the best success!

Came here for the first time and was pleasantly surprised! It is so peaceful! The trails are nice and you see so many birds. Wonderful place for events too and if you are a local they have yoga classes! I highly recommend.

A must visit nature place. Great for all ages. Go and love nature. Learn and Grow and Educate. Let's take care of Quinta Mazatlan. Imagine if we all had our landscaping similar to Quinta Mazatlan. Mother Nature would be happy. Happy trails everyone. Keep exploring.

It was a great trip! We camped between mile marker 10 and 15. The water was great since it was warm and the temperature was definitely hot. Sand flies were prevalent in the morning and boy do they bite! The bug spray didn't seem to deter them so be prepared. Be prepared for wind a lot of the day. The only time it's really calm is in the early morning hours. The water is amazing and the best part is during the day. We hung around the shoreline and the wind was not a factor in our enjoyment at all. A FYI, free trash bags are provided by the park. Those yellow mesh bags at the bathrooms just before entering the seashore are so convenient! We deflated the tires on our Jeep like others suggested and it probably helped but I'm not sure it was needed since we saw lots of vehicles with no problems while driving with fully inflated tires. Pack lots of extra bug spray and keep a lookout for the yellow mesh trash bags.

My trip to Padre Island was nothing short of amazing! From the moment I arrived, I was blown away by the endless stretch of pristine shoreline, soft white sand, and the calming sound of waves rolling in. Whether you're looking for a peaceful escape or outdoor adventure, Padre Island has something for everyone. I spent my mornings walking along the beach with the sunrise painting the sky in soft hues, and my afternoons swimming, paddleboarding, and even spotting dolphins not far from shore. The natural beauty of the island is perfectly preserved, especially at the Padre Island National Seashore — a must-visit if you enjoy untouched nature and wildlife. Local seafood spots were incredible — fresh, flavorful, and full of coastal charm. I was especially impressed by how friendly and welcoming everyone was, from locals to fellow travelers. The atmosphere was laid-back but never boring. This place left a lasting impression on me. It’s the kind of destination that makes you want to extend your stay and already plan your return before you even leave. Highly recommended for families, couples, solo travelers — anyone who loves the ocean and a slower pace of life. Padre Island truly is a hidden gem on the Texas coast!

Wonderful! Nice to visit. I've so many fond memories of camping out here over 50 yrs ago as a child. Remote and private. Id love to camp out here again.

Beautiful but windy. So windy I can’t as getting sand out of my suv for the next 6 months! But quite otherwise..less and less people the further you go.

Such an underrated spot! It was peaceful and not packed on a holiday weekend. The walk to the beach isn’t bad and there’s a nice store with bathrooms at the parking lot. Be careful of the natural tar in the water and on the beach. It gets removed with oil or dish soap but my dog and myself both got splotches of it on us. I love this spot more than the other beaches in the area.

Entrance fee 25$ per car. Beautiful beaches, a few people. We swam at the Halloween weekend, but the water wasn’t that warm.

One of the best camping experiences. You just need the national park pass or pay the day/s fee, no reservation required. Make sure you have all wheel drive vehicle. Try to park towards the shore and not the dunes.

I was told to come here because it is supposedly better than Port Aransas beach. Boy, was that a mistake. This beach is located inside a park that you have to pay $10 for. Considering everyone gets charged, you would think the beach would be well maintained.. well, you'd be wrong. There was trash everywhere, broken glass getting in your tires is a risk as well. The water was dirty and brown compared to Port A (Considering they both are in the gulf, and Texas doesn't really have beaches like the east and west coast) plus at Port A, you pay $12 for an entire year vs $10 a day for a dirty and trashy beach. Oh, did I mention dead jellyfish and stingrays on shore? Yeah.. there were several of those. Definitely wouldn't wanna step on that, would you? Just go to Port A where the city actually takes care of it unlike the national park association with this beach. It was sad. Also, the only restrooms were at the beginning of the trail. Port A has them everywhere from the access road. While they "recommend" a 4x4 vehicle, a 2x4 vehicle with a smart driver will work as well. Just go slow and don't accelerate suddenly and you'll be fine.

Waves and water temperature perfect. Beach clean with outdoor showers available as well as restrooms and a gift shop. Nearest store/restaurant 13 miles northeast.

Always so gorgeous and lots of sea creatures to see. This trip we came across different types of jellyfish, a baby stingray, all sorts of fish, hermit crabs, ghost crabs and pretty sure a baby shark. There were also lots of cute little prairie dogs in the day and antlered deer at night! Cons: -One toilet in the ladies bathroom kept running even after they would fix it during cleaning time. -Camping spots did have some ant issues. -There wasn’t a camp hosting (we always look forward to meeting them). Due to their absence the deposit box was overflowing and people were randomly parking without reserving spots and rvs were parking in tent campsites.

our favorite beach, windy and breezy, often waves, but sometimes you have to be careful with the fuel oil, but still we like it

Great place clean and well managed. However, when we went last week, the water system was not working. Call first and make sure it's working because it's a hassle without a shower. I have TMobile cell service and there was no signal

Beautiful beach!!! This beach has private parking including disability areas and ramps, very clean restrooms, and private showers as well! Perfect for a relaxing day at the beach. Also note that the entrance fee was free for us because we got there a little after 6pm which was even a better trip! The fee is not as hefty as South Padre Island who no longer has private showers!!!

If you have pets, may want to wrap their paws before you walk them. A lot of thorny cockleburs that wreak havoc on their paws! Other than that, very beautiful natural beachfront with a lot of jellyfish and turtles.

Wonderful visitor center with an informative historical film, captioned hanging photos throughout, books, and King Ranch memorabilia. Convenient restrooms in a nearby building. Take the 90-minute King Ranch historical/informative bus tour that drives through the local grounds. See the Santa Gertrudis Cattle and the Quarter Horses as well as Longhorns and Caracara falcons. Learn about the rich history of the family that began, still resides on, and is still involved with the ranch. We were very pleased with Gabe as our guide; he was well informed and was a pleasure to meet.

It was OK - it's pricey for what you get. FYI, You can drive the area and read about the history and current operation for FREE It asked if I recommend buying tickets in advance, I recommend you don't buy tickets. But if you are down for paying for sitting on a bus when you can see the ranch for free, then yes, buy tickets in advance

The King Ranch Visitor centers offers a quaint selection of King Ranch memorabilia. Numerous books regarding various King Ranch related history, cookbooks, hats, shirts, t-shirts, etc. There is also a 30+ minute video that relates some of the history of the King Ranch, its early beginnings, the expansion, and ongoing operations. Very interesting video. We also took the history tour that last for 90 minutes. It was absolutely great.

I mean, it's a small store with a desk clerk ready to process your purchase of t shirts that don't fit because they don't restock common sizes like Large and medium. The coolest stuff there you cannot buy like a king ranch branded sowboy boot and a studfed rattler. Idk. I guess I expected more. I get that it's a working ranch and tourist stuff is probably the last thing on their mind. But I wish they'd put more creative throught into their gift shop buying. Awesome t shirts rather than lame ones. The mugs are ok I guess. But no beer glasses. They have books on the 300+ species of bird on the ranch... Not that that isn't intereseting... But that's the stuff we're talking about. They need leather goods, sweet artisan style shirts, hats, boots with the brand in the sole, belt buckles, branded cast iron, history books, watch bands, cigars... All things manly. Unless you're going to go on the tour, might as well skip that detour.

Wonderful and very informative tour with tour guide Doug! He has a lot of historic knowledge. He’s such a special soul! Loved everything about it! Highly recommend! Greetings from Germany :-)

Great tour guide but worst tour ever. Difficult to take pictures from inside a crowded bus. We were not allowed outside the bus because of the possibility of being bitten by a rattlesnake. The view of the main house was anti-climactic. The bus drove by what looked like the back of the house, which meant that people on the opposite side of the bus couldn’t even take a quick picture of it. No stops to see inside a barn or bunkhouse. Primarily just stops to look at cattle of different breeds and a few horses in fields. Definitely not worth the money. And don’t get me started about the visitor center. No photography allowed. The one person at the front stopped my wife and told her no photos. It’s the only interaction we had with the staff there. Interesting museum but to charge an entrance fee and not allow personal photos is ridiculous.

This interesting tour covers the gambit from Texas history, ranching practices, wildlife management and so much more. You'll see all kinds of flora and fauna, you'll see historic structures and implements, you'll see beautiful cattle and horses, and an array of creatures in their natural habitat. This tour packs it into 90 minutes which goes by in a flash.

Absolutely stunning! Much love from Kentucky

Lovely area for a hike as long as the weather's not too hot. I recommend wearing bug spray.

I didn't know what a salt flat was before going and was honestly disappointed. It was flat with no shade (it was over 100) and no wildlife. It is a natural area and is kept clean so they've made very few changes in order to keep it that way.

If you want a beautiful backdrop for a moment like this, then head to Charlies Pasture! It is a nature reserve, and bike/hike trail as well. The fishing is great,and youll have plenty of wonderful memories.

The mosquitoes were RUTHLESS for those naive enough to forget bug spray. Great path to the tower. Any photographer or bird lover will love the intimate wildlife experience as the trail goes right through the wetlands. The tower allows an incredible view to scan all of the birds. My third walk to the tower was rewarded with a sight of 3 GORGEOUS American Flamingos blown from the Yucatan Penninsula months ago from a hurricane.

Well done trails. Very clean. Nice assortment of waterfowl plus others. We thought it was a really neat place and are glad it’s being preserved. We will certainly be back but will bring bug spray next time.

Bring bug spray! The mosquitoes are awful. Definitely no birds here. Only saw flamingos, red wing black birds, 4 kinds of heron, and osprey. It's not worth your time. Also no trail at all, had to hike up hill through mud both ways. 😉😉

This was such an amazing visit! It is a bit on the pricy side (+$7 parking) but it’s worth it since the money goes to help the rescue and animals! I went during a weekday so it wasn’t packed at all. I was only planning on staying for an hour or two and ended up staying until close. I was able to catch the dolphin show at 3pm, which was magnificent!! The water is beautiful from there. They have swings where you can relax and watch the water or the USS Lexington, which is right next door! The aquarium itself has so many cool fish and staff who truly love their job! They are attentive and informative! I loved my visit here and would definitely recommend it to anyone thinking of visiting!

Beautiful way to spend a very hot day. I'm a total aquarium nerd, and this was a treat! Lots of good info on the various species. Animals are healthy and happy. The dolphin show was so cute, you can tell they are having a blast!

Absolutely loved the dolphins show! Also, the otters are so fun to watch. Very interesting and informative. My grandchildren enjoyed everything. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars was the price. I understand the animals have needs and I love that they rehabilitate a lot of them. But, it was $300 for 3 adults and 2 children. We stayed 2 hours but we missed an entire side, so I recommend getting there no later than 2.

My experience at the Texas State Aquarium with my family was nothing short of amazing! From the moment we walked in, we were greeted with friendly staff, breathtaking exhibits, and an atmosphere full of excitement and wonder. The interactive displays kept our kids engaged the entire time, and the variety of marine life — from dolphins and sea turtles to sharks and stingrays — was incredible to see up close. The entire facility was clean, well-organized, and perfect for a full day of fun and learning. It was a memorable family outing that we’ll be talking about for a long time. Highly recommend it for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to experience the beauty of the ocean without leaving Texas!

The aquarium has beautiful tanks filled with happy critters. The birds are beautiful and the layout of well thought out. The staff genuinely seem to love what they do. Like most large aquariums it’s not an inexpensive day, but certainly worth the time and effort to see.

We had an absolutely amazing time at the aquarium, which proved to be a fantastic way to spend our day. The aquarium provided a vast amount of information on various species and offered numerous attractions. The dolphin show was truly spectacular, and the facility offered a range of food and drink options, as well as clean, well-designed bathrooms, making it perfect for families.

🌟🌟🌟🌟 Four Stars – A Great Family Adventure with Room to Grow! We had a fantastic time at the Texas State Aquarium! The exhibits were engaging, especially the dolphin show and the Caribbean Journey section – the sharks, rays, and sea turtles were crowd favorites. The aquarium does a great job of combining education with entertainment, making it a hit for both kids and adults. The facility was clean and well-maintained, and the staff were friendly and knowledgeable. My kids especially enjoyed the interactive touch pools and the splash pad area – great ways to cool off and burn some energy. The reason for four stars instead of five? Ticket prices are quite steep, especially for a relatively small aquarium when compared to similar facilities across the U.S. and internationally. For larger families, the cost adds up quickly. A few areas also felt a bit dated, and while the food options were okay, more variety would be a welcome improvement. Still, this is a gem in Corpus Christi and absolutely worth a visit if you’re in the area. With a few updates and more accessible pricing, this could easily be a five-star destination. We’ll definitely be back!

Visiting the USS Lexington in Corpus Christi was an unforgettable experience. The ship is massive and full of history, with well-preserved exhibits and interactive sections. One of the highlights was meeting Richard in the engine room he took the time to explain how the carrier operated and shared fascinating personal anecdotes. Talking with him truly brought the ship to life and made the visit even more special. If you're in the area, don’t miss this piece of naval history and the chance to meet passionate people like Richard.

Definitely a must to go see, but plan most of the day if you want to see it all, it's a big ship. They have bathrooms, cafeteria, a movie theater and a gift shop of course. Best if you don't go during the heat of the summer, not many cool spots. But if you don't mind sweating go ahead, they do have a little cooler spots here and there. Fun for the whole family and a big part of history.

My kids enjoyed the tour ages 16 and 11. The tour took about 2 hrs. It’s self guided. In a world where kids are glued to their phones and social media it captured their attention. I do not recommend this tour for toddlers, heels, dressy clothing or people with walking restrictions. Their is a lot of climbing (ladder style stairs). Dont forget to take your free picture, it cost $35 for the print out but the digital versions using the QR code are free. Parking was $5 directly across the street. It’s so much to do in the area so bring beach stuff, strollers etc to enjoy the day in the surrounding area.

Came here spur of the moment. And really enjoyed it. This one lasted us half a day and we didn't finish looking at everything. There is so much to do and see. The crew is friendly the place is neat. There are some areas where you can spot hints of the past. The renovated and up kept areas of the ship suddenly contrasted by the subtle reminders that yes, this ship did see war, fought in battles, and has aged. Love it. Highly recommend this spot for a visit if your a military buff.

Very interesting self-guided tour. Can catch a free cart ride up the gangway. The steps are steep and narrow to the different levels so wear good shoes if going.

Went here a few weeks ago. Kid friendly. This place was absolutely amazing. They have 5 different tours to choose from and they explain everything about the ship, to the crew, the historical aspects, military honor, they even have a section on here about Pearl Harbor. Be prepared to learn about the history. If you want to get your steps in for the day, this is the place. Spent 5 hours here and walked over 10K steps. Highly recommend this for a day trip.

Great experience! There is a lot to learn not only about this ship, but a few others as well as about the crews that lived aboard. Note that while walking through the below decks, there are a few rooms that are very cold, which I would think would be a good break in between on the hotter days. It does take a good amount of time to walk and to listen/read everything.

Took military graduate son there for celebratory outing. Beautiful historical park with well marked points of interest displays. Clean and well kept historical structures to walk among. Very educational. Paved Nature paths good for both the nimble and wheelchairs or walkers. Tickets to visit were not necessary.

This National Historic Park consists of four different missions, each with their own unique story. They are a little spread out so you can easily hit them all by driving. These sites are really interesting and well preserved. What's even cooler is that all of the missions are active faith communities. Truly a spot you should see in San Antonio aside from the Alamo.

What an amazing day visiting the missions. Highly recommend starting at Mission San Jose. The movie and museum in the visitors center provide a great introduction—great to know the history and background. Take time to respectfully visit the inside of the churches as well.

A beautiful time capsule of history. A bargain, 5 sites at $0, of course you can donate to the Churches. But who can beat that? Sure the Alamo is free too, but it's crowded and just one site.

Stopped at Mission San Juan and talked with the Park Ranger, William, for a long time. He was very knowledgeable of the missions' history and the struggles of the local tribes. Then, we headed over to Mission San Jose. Couldn't go inside sanctuary due to private event. Passport stamps are at the Vistor Center with a small museum. Didn't have much time as we arrived close to closing. Great visit of a National Historic site.

Wonderful historic UNESCO heritage site. There's a church onsite that still has Mass. Definitely a must visit while in San Antonio

If you lime history this is a really interesting place to visit! Bring water and have a nice walk around the site!

Mission San José: A Must-Visit in San Antonio Known as the "Queen of the Missions," Mission San José is stunning with its Baroque-style church, iconic Rose Window, and expansive grounds. The ranger-led tours bring history to life, and the serene atmosphere makes it perfect for a relaxed visit. Whether you're exploring the granary, grist mill, or simply admiring the craftsmanship, it’s a beautiful, enriching glimpse into 18th-century mission life. Don’t miss it!

This is a really cool place. One of the most prestine Missions we have. And if you would like to join them for Church you can do that as well.

Wonderful preservation. You can really feel what it would have felt like to live there. One area with displays and information was air-conditioned, which felt fabulous. The mission is quite large and it got very hot walking the grounds in the brutal Texas sun. The gift shop was closed and there were no hours for it displayed, so that was a disappointment.

Can't believe it took me so many years to visit the national historic UNESCO site. Took advantage of the free park ranger led tour. Check www for times. Tour is well worth it for the background info. Definitely a must see in San Antonio

The Mission is so interesting. There is a history movie to watch first. It wasn't all fun for the native people. The mission is huge and the day was hot. The church was beautiful on the inside. It was Day of The Dead week and there were altars for the deceased love ones near the church. I would have liked Day of The Dead explanations.

My friends took me to this Mission, there 4 others, this ine was constructed in the 1750s abandoned has 350 inhabitants living within the walls. It was pretty impressive. Just church still is active and has daily masses.

The history, the peacefulness. Completely free. So greatful the our tourguide showed us such an amazing place.

Went on a Sunday morning. Not all the amenities were open but it was quiet and we almost had the upper deck to ourselves. Staff were really friendly and nice. The views were amazing. You can see all of the City, The Astrodome and the Álamo. Outside was pretty windy but it still felt pretty safe. We also seen they have a really cool bar area on the way down. I’d like to go back for a drink. We bought the photos they took of us before going up. $35 for that which seemed ok as the guy did a good job. Good experience!

Grey place to eat. Costly but totally worth it. It was not spinning the night we went but still enjoyed the time there. Will definitely go back. Probably around Christmas time. Oh, get your Groupon pass for this. Well worth it. No hassle whatsoever.

Great experience! I had seafood, risotto with a glass carajillo, delicious! The restaurant is at the top of the tower with amazing night views. Perfect spot for couples or a fun but quiet night out. There’s also a museum inside, you need a ticket for that but the restaurant and bar are free to access. Highly recommend!

Came in on a Sunday evening and it was relatively not busy. We did the observatory side. But they have a bar dining side as well. It’s 20 dollars a person. Includes the ride to the top as well as a 4d entertainment move. Everything was fun and the views were very nice. Would recommend coming and giving this place a look!

Food is pretty good. Obviously the view is amazing. We were in a group and it did take a very long time even to get water or drinks. The lobster bisque and the creme brulee are delicious! I would go back just for those two items.

Nice views up the top. I would probably wait till dusk so you get both views with and without the sun. The ground level around the tower is also quite beautiful with large flowing water down several large pools of water, something quite peaceful and beautiful about the way they've landscaped it there.

Magnificent view specially if you go at night. People get confused with the $19.50 which is for the observatory only, if you go to the restaurant just make a free reservation online. To be honest, you don't need to pay 19.50 to enjoy the view, sitting in this beautiful restaurant's table you can appreciate the impressive view.

As others warned me before my visit - it's smaller than you expect. I feel like I need to do the same PSA because that lowering of expectation allowed me to enjoy the whole experience more lol. The queue for the only remaining structure - the church is crazy long, I stepped out and just explored the rest of the area instead. I liked the Phil Collins voiceover of the sequence of events over the diorama which helped me visualize and imagine how crazy the whole thing was.

I visited the Alamo in San Antonio and really enjoyed learning about the history behind this important landmark. The museum is fascinating, and I especially liked seeing the old guns and historic artifacts that help tell the story. The original building and the church area where people once hid felt very peaceful and almost holy, like stepping back in time. The grounds are beautiful and well cared for, and the displays make it easy to understand what happened here. Definitely worth the visit!

If you've never been and don't know much about it's history, you are in for a surprise. The famous chapel front isn't "The Alamo" per se. It's one surviving part of the fort that was towards the back of the original complex. Much of the original structure is gone but the rest is in what amounts to a very nice historical park in town. Very close to the Swan Antonio River Walk and other in-town attractions. There are also active archeology sites throughout that are interesting to view.

Remember The Alamo! The Alamo is central to understanding the story and identity of San Antonio and Texas. We experienced the "Victory or Death” audio tour which covers the site's 300-year history, from its origin as a Spanish mission to the 1836 Battle of the Alamo. The audio tour guides us through the Alamo Church, across the grounds, and includes other stops. The tour is available in multiple languages. The Alamo features both original cannons and historically accurate replicas that were used in the battle of 1836. A fully operational, fireable model of the 18-pounder cannon is among the most remarkable. We also witnessed the musket firing which is a 15-minute demonstration given by the Alamo Living History staff that includes a live firing from a flintlock firearm, the same kind of weapon used during the 1836 Battle. The gift shop has unique souvenir collections. This historic site is well-preserved and has sufficient information to understand the Texas revolution. We spent an entire day to explore this amazing piece of history.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ A Memorable Visit to The Alamo I absolutely loved my visit to The Alamo! From the moment I stepped onto the grounds, you could feel the history surrounding you. The staff and volunteers were incredibly friendly and knowledgeable—every conversation added something meaningful to the experience. The grounds were beautifully maintained, and the exhibits were easy to explore at a comfortable pace. Seeing the iconic church up close and learning more about its role in Texas history made the visit even more impactful. If you’re visiting San Antonio, The Alamo is a must-see. It’s free, it’s fascinating, and it’s the kind of place that stays with you long after you leave. Highly recommend!

Beautiful historic site in the heart of the city. The old church and grounds are well preserved, and the exhibits are clear and informative. A meaningful place to visit and learn Texas history.

A must-visit if visiting San Antonio. We opted for just the free tour of the church (you must still go to the information desk and obtain a ticket even for the free church tour). Allow maybe 30 min for a walk-through of the church (only three barren rooms), to read the posted descriptions and a short talk. There were no photos allowed to be taken inside of the church. There are lots of activities located within walking distance nearby, including the infamous Riverwalk. There were also a few other more extensive tour options of the Alamo available for purchase. My rating reflects what I experienced on the free tour of the church - very historic but just not a lot to see.

The San Antonio Zoo was pretty good and I liked how kid friendly it was. I feel that (especially in the summer time) the zoo could've been more abundantly staffed and you could tell how understaffed they were at certain parts of the park. I must say that we definitely underestimated the San Antonio sun the day we went (Temperatures reached 110°F 🥵🥵) and the heat I'm sure had a lot to do with a good amount of the animal exhibits being empty. I want to commend the Zoo on their butterfly exhibit because it was a highlight of our park experience and I love the conservation efforts and how well they protect and take care of the butterflies, they also do a great job educating every patron that comes in to visit the butterflies. The other big highlight of our Zoo experience was feeding the Giraffes! Very interactive and kids friendly. There was a bit of a line and the shade around the Giraffe's area is almost non-existent. So, I highly recommend bringing all the mist fans, sun hats, umbrellas, and sun-screen. My last gripe about the park has more to do with money than anything and that's their no personal water bottles/metal containers rule. You can't bring your own water or water for you kids because they want you to buy their $5 - 20oz Dasani water bottles. And that's just not good practice and not having the customer's best interests at hand with how much walking, lack if shade, and hear exposure there is. To the Zoo's credit there were some mist fan tents to help people cool down. I think we encountered 2-3 of them spanning the park. Lastly, the fish, reptiles, and big cats areas were great cool down areas and made the work more enjoyable.

Pretty solid size zoo with a bunch of different species of animals. They are missing some common ones like the elephant, but theres plenty of animals to see here. Theres a lot of great enclosures and some well themed areas. I also went on a dog day, which was fun seeing all the dogs react to the various animals. I would definitely recommend going earlier in the day because of the heat, and probably when the animals are most active.

We went on a slow day, it was pretty hot. That said we were able to see pretty much everything they have and offer for purchase with not missing an animal! Kids loved it. And they have really good marks! Food there is eh... but who goes for that!? Great zoo over all! You can tell they take great care of the wild life they have.

We decided to go to San Antonio for the day and check out the San Antonio zoo. We were so disappointed it’s small. There’s no elephants the elephant had passed away and I think they were in the process of getting new elephants. There’s no gorilla the majority of the park are birds, we couldn’t feed the giraffes because we didn’t get there in time. It’s just a small zoo. It’s not as exciting as the big zoo Houston zoo is much much better so save your trip and do something else in San Antonio. Don’t go to the zoo. For $39 dollars I was expecting so much more. The stag is friendly!! And the park is serene.

It is much easier to go on line prior to visiting and get a pass or annual pass. The zoo was very clean. 90% of the animals were out and visible. I highly recommend morning or late afternoon for cooler visits on the hot days. We were very pleased with the amenities and the family had a great day.

I've lost count on how many times we've gone. Maybe 3-4 times a year. We've had season passes the past 2-3 years. Hippos are still my favorite. Sad they lost a lion. Excited for gorillas and the new event center. Lots of good quick changes. Staff are friendly and knowledgeable. Lots of fun, learning and walking. Criticism: Food is overpriced and underwhelming.

We tried out the San Antonio zoo. They had a good online deal where u can buy a yearly membership for the price of a day pass and make small payments threw out the year. At the end we ended up saving money due upfront this way with our large group. A lot of the animals were not out for us to see due to the weather I guess they took cover from the light rain. But luckily we got the year pass so next time we come it will give us something else to look forward to. Also they have a lot of animals encounter add ons like feed the birds and feed the giraffes etc. Maybe we can look into the different add on options so have something different to do every time we visit. I like how the zoo was shaped in a circle so u can see everything and not worry about skipping or going way out of the way to see everything like other zoos. Which usually will take up a whole day to view everything. Also there was a few indirect in door exhibits to get a break from the outdoors also misting zones to cool you down on those hot summer days! The underwater viewing of the hippos was awesome. And I’m excited to come back to see the Congo fall exhibit which was under construction due 2025. They had free parking which was close by also garage parking was next door if overflow is needed. The lines went fast to get in. Since you buy your tickets online I bought ahead of time and when we got there we just walked right in. No long lines. Great experience here.

Palmetto State Park is absolutely beautiful. We stayed for two nights. The campsites are well kept and the trails are easy. The lake was fun to swim in. The only issue was that the restrooms were being renovated and pop-up restrooms provided had no way of controlling the temperature of the water. The water went from cool to extremely hot in about 5 seconds which made for very uncomfortable showers

The park is beautiful, but it’s missing some things, like trash bins near every picnic area. Also, the restrooms are under renovation, and the place feels hot. The plants need more care. Overall, it’s a quiet place, and the best parts are the scenic viewpoint and the prickly pear cactus. My comfort rating for this place is 3 out of 5

Palmetto State Park is a hidden gem in Texas! The scenery is beautiful with lush greenery, unique dwarf palmettos, and peaceful trails that make you feel like you’re in a tropical oasis. The San Marcos River running through the park adds to the charm, and you can enjoy fishing, kayaking, or just relaxing by the water. Campsites are well-kept, restrooms are clean, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Perfect spot for hiking, picnicking, or a quiet weekend getaway in nature.

Restrooms are super clean and good. Arrangement and all are so perfect. Electric plug is near to your allocated area so boon for EV car users. Also they are providing firewood for fire by money. Gas station is hardly far 15-20 minutes. A perfect place for hangout, barbecue and all. I went with my family friends and we enjoyed alot.

Really nice park! Ladies in headquarters were very nice and helpful. There's some pretty affordable snacks and drinks in there plus souvenirs. My daughter and I love the 2 stuffed birds we got. They are very cute! We only stayed to fish for about 3 hours this time. We plan on fishing here more often.

This park surprised us- it is very shaded, a great middle of summer destination as you aren't burning up on the trails. Sites were fresh poured blacktop so it was very level. All trails are bike friendly, and our little ones (5 and 7) had no problem biking them.

The park is very nice. We really enjoy the trails. Very easy to fo on a bike or walking. Shower houses nice and clean.

Very BIG waterpark. Was about $100 per ticket at the door. I recommend getting tickets ONLINE because you will save a lot of money. Went on a Monday in June and to be expected there were very long lines for every ride. Be prepared to do lots of walking as well. The food was not good here. We had the burgers, pizza, and their fries and everything tasted frozen and was way overpriced.

We arrived 20 min before they opened on a Wednesday and bought tickets online. We got in no problem and no wait. We heard that the east side park had the big water slides my kids were excited about so we decided to hit those first. That was a big mistake. My boys waited in line for ONE of those big slides for TWO hours. Not exaggerating. My daughter and I were in line at the other slide for an hour and a half. So by 1:15, we had only been on ONE thing. We are from out of town and didn’t bring coolers so we then waited in line for over THIRTY minutes to spend $115 on coldish not great burgers. So by 2:15 after being there at 10:45, we only had been on one slide. My kids were pretty discouraged and didn’t feel like it was worth the $350 we spent on tickets for the 5 of us. We decided to skip the big slides as they just weren’t worth it and we did the tube chute ones. They were really fun and we enjoyed them. We also enjoyed the lazy river which also was like a wave river. They thought the wave pool wasn’t awesome as it was really small and not that exciting as we have big ones where we are from. I think overall it was a bit disappointing as we traveled a ways and spent a lot of money to wait in long lines. We will not be returning.

Fun family water park .. Really huge with multiple slides - great lazy river - ample of shaded seating ..! Plenty of attentive staff 💯 The only drawback is the food - very limited options - we ordered the pizza with breadsticks ; pizza was ok but breadsticks were hard and dry 🫤 Chicken sandwich with waffle fries was so hard - like stone really so inedible 👎🏻Overall great all day fun spot - just make sure to bring your own food here ..! Nice shuttle transport from one park to the other 💯

Some of the rides are a bit unkept, but it’s totally worth it. It’s so much fun! And if you get a season pass with Fiesta Texas you get access to both.

highly recommended experience for this summer! The food is a bit pricey, but the good thing is that you’re allowed to bring your own, which is a big plus. Also, it’s much better to buy the tickets online — they’re more affordable and it saves time at the entrance. Overall, everything was great: the atmosphere, the attractions, and how well everything is organized. Definitely worth the visit!

We went first weekend of September. No wait time to enter and didn’t wait long at all for rides. I was fun and organized. I you need locker there were 3 different size locker. You can take your cooler and food. Also we were told that there was no shower but clearly there was one in the restrooms by lockers and we used it.

This review is about the wonderful staff of lifeguards and guest relations employee Ebony (unsure of spelling). The lifeguards were extremely friendly all around and always helpful. When I lost my glasses Ebony was a great help as well as reassuring to someone that had become blind again. She also helped another guest find their phone and helped when my fast lane pass ripped. The park as a whole is the best Waterpark I’ve been to yet. Prices are a little high but what can you expect.

I’ve been visiting NBC since I was a young child. So many memories! I brought all 3 of my children (ages 7-16) to experience NBC and it was the highlight of our getaway. Our tour guide was knowledgeable and fun! It was easy enough for our 7 year old but the humidity is no joke! I have lived in Texas all of my life so I know humidity but it hits different in that cavern. Just a heads up for anyone visiting who might be sensitive or unaccustomed to high humidity levels. It is wise to make sure you have water on you and wear shoes with grip. My only complaint is the fact you have to pay to park on their private grounds where you are already spending $30+ per ticket. And on a side note… would love to see the dinosaur brought back. It just isn’t the same driving up and not seeing it. 😊

Did the hidden tours route. Definitely not for those with mobility issues due to the number of stairs. But if that's not a problem great variety of cave forms. Just stay towards the middle or front of the group. As I was at the back the lights were switching off as I walked out of the cathedral cavern so I didn't get to see into the bottom. Very knowledgeable tour guide in Colton. Great mix of science in how the caves were formed with the visual walk through. Definitely on a par with other caves I have been in around the world.

Absolutely amazing Caverns to see. Our first trip was last year, where we did the 2 normal tours. They didn't disappoint. This year, my son and I decided to do the St. Mary's adventure tour. Our guides, Tyler and Kyle were awesome! They were very friendly, funny, and had a lot of great info. There were some definite challenging parts, but a lot of fun too. We'll be back next year for the other adventure tour and more challenges.

Visiting the Natural Bridge Caverns was an absolutely incredible experience! The formations are so unique and impressive that it almost doesn’t feel real. It’s hard to believe that something so stunning is completely natural. The tour was exciting, very well organized, and full of amazing sights at every step. It’s such a different and fascinating place — truly sensational. If you’re looking for something fun, educational, and unforgettable, this is a must-see attraction!

Really enjoyed the Hidden Wonders and Discovery tours. These are a bit intensive for going up and down stairs as well as extremely steep inclines. Our guides; Abigail and Rachel, we're both incredibly knowledgeable, entertaining and perfectly paced. Such a magnificent sight to get to see in person.

We had such a great relaxing time at Natural Bridge Caverns. The grounds are beautiful and the staff was so friendly and welcoming. The caves is just something you need to see to believe. Food is a little expensive but it was served with a smile and friendly chit chat.

What a beautiful place that you can discover and enjoy the natural beauty. The ticket is $38.5 per adult, they have two routes, we went to the discover route that around an hour and 10 minutes, you will needs to climb up and down(sneakers will be the best option for this trip), only water allowed down there, no any other sugar drinks or food allowed. It’s pretty hot there, so you don’t need any extra jackets. Overall, it’s a great place that you can discover with your kids

Visited Sunday, August 17, 2025 We visited this rescue ranch 20 years ago while vacationing in San Antonio before we had a child. My husband has been wanting to bring our daughter here for sometime. We finally made as she gets ready to start college. Better late than never! It’s a great experience but keep in mind expensive. You have the option of self guided drive through or be driven on one of their recreational vehicles. If you choose option one, you will be charged per person in your vehicle. This is why I give it 4 stars. I don’t understand why charge per person in a vehicle rather than a flat fee per car. And you have to buy the feed too! In all we paid well over $100 for 3 people and a 1/2 bag of pellets. Aside from this negative, again an amazing experience. You drive around and creatures such as antelope, bison, deer, rams, zebras, etc if not too hot will come up to your vehicle for pellets. To major matters to keep in mind: Ostrich can be mean, your car can be damaged and don’t use up all your feed at the start of the drive through. Space it out because you’ll run out before you get half way or towards the end. The giraffe’s were not willing to come out from the shade. Nor the bison and rhinoceros’s. Hey, I wouldn’t want to get out of the shade if I know when my next feeding will be. And you only get to drive by and see the Cheetah’s. But there a reason for that unless you want to be their food! Lastly, check out the walk up wildlife at the end too! Definitely, a great experience for the family. Get there early to beat the crowd that begins to arrive mid morning.

This is such an awesome place. The ticket prices are quite reasonable- 31.89$ per adult and $4.99 for a feed bag and extra $5 per adult for birds experience. It was so much fun. We did drive through experience , it was 6 mile in total but would around 1-2 hours depending on your pace. Animals are super friendly and we had such an experience feeding them and enjoying from such a close distance

First off this place is expensiveeee which is why there’s less stars. It’s $75+ for 2 ppl!!! The drive itself is nice and there’s lots of animals to see. They won’t always come to you or be hungry though as they’re fed regularly with corn or hay. I’d recommend going in the morning while they’re up and moving and while it’s still cool!

Great Sunday. Got tix at entrance. About 100$ for 3 of us. Drove the loop and fed the wildlife. Got some great pics. Got closer to animals that I did on an actual African safari. Good variety of healthy looking animals. Didn't the bird house... that was the hit for my 6 yr old niece. She found a dead bird but most of them were very alive and would land on you. Such a neat experience. There is a new born baby Gibbon if you go soon.

Had a great experience Alot of the animals were out so we could see them, (had went a time before for spring break and hardly any were out) Very nice adventure, the kids loved the birds and monkeys It was sad to see that some people just don't know how to follow rules about feeding the animals. The people in front of us were feeding by hand and also fed the animals the paper sack, thankfully there was a park worker that came and stopped them. Just so sad, some don't realize the damage they can do. The park had it posted and we were told at the admission gate so it was definitely known. Great park experience!!! Just sad that customers can't follow the rules, and could ruin it for others.

This was an excellent experience for a family outing! It’s a unique place where you can explore the entire area by car, which is very convenient — especially for families with kids or older adults. They also offer a guided golf cart tour service, driven by the park staff, for those who wish to purchase that option and enjoy a more relaxed sightseeing experience. One of the most amazing aspects of the visit is that the animals roam freely. You get to see a wide variety of species up close, in a more natural and open environment, which makes the experience feel much more immersive and special than a traditional zoo. From curious giraffes to peaceful antelopes and exotic birds, every part of the journey has something new and exciting to see. It was a one-of-a-kind experience that gave us beautiful memories, and I would definitely go back. I highly recommend this place to anyone looking for a fun, educational, and unforgettable day with family or friends.

I loved the experience! It’s such a beautiful place and getting to see the animals up close was amazing. However, it made me a little sad to see some of them struggling with the intense heat. I’ll definitely come back in October when the weather is cooler — I’m sure they’ll be more comfortable then. Still, a wonderful place to visit and support!

We recently visited San Marcos Premium Outlets, located roughly midway between San Antonio & Austin. It’s a massive outdoor shopping complex, so large that at sometimes, we even drove from one store to another ! Despite the 32°C heat 😰I really enjoyed the experience. The outlets feature a wide variety of premium brands and products, ranging from luxury fashion and shoes to home goods. The product quality is excellent, and prices are quite competitive😀 For tourists, tax refunds are available, however, each bill must include at least $12 in taxes paid, and you can only receive 50% of the total tax amount back. The food court is decent, though it doesn’t include all the popular fast-food chains. We had Chinese food, which was okay. Overall, it’s a must visit if you’re in or around Austin or San Antonio 👍

I recently visited San Marcos Premium Outlets and was blown away by the sheer variety of brands and products available. From luxury fashion to home goods, there's something for everyone. The prices are incredibly competitive, and the quality of the products is exceptional. The outlet itself is well-designed, making it easy to find what you're looking for." _Recommendation_ If you're looking for a great shopping experience with amazing deals on top brands, San Marcos Premium Outlets is the place to go! With its vast selection, reasonable prices, and high-quality products, you won't be disappointed.

Big and spacious. Alot of good stores and deals. The weather in October was very hot but walking underneath the shade was nice

Visited the San Marcos Premium Outlets yesterday for the second time, and it’s still a great spot for shopping. The outlet has a wide range of brands and is well-maintained, making it enjoyable to walk around. While the variety isn’t the best for every category, it’s an excellent place to find daily wear and sportswear at good prices. The layout is convenient, parking is easy, and the overall experience is pleasant. A solid shopping destination for casual and brand-name finds. 🛍️

Been coming here for 30 years. A load of cats are living in the parking lot. Saw 5 all at once. Many area smell of cat piss. Dirtier than I ever remember it. And outlet store prices are just retail now. No deals to be had. In many cases exact same items at a better price can be found on Amazon. Sorry I tell it as I see it.

Here is huge. You can spend all day. In columbia stores, you don't pay label price. There are many sales %40-%70.. final price is lower than label price

I been coming here since I was a kid. But please talk to your younger kids employees don’t take advantage of elderly senior citizens with the tip. I guess he didn’t know my mom was with me. And he keep repeating himself 3x for tipping and he want to tap tip until I caught that young kid. I tap the skip and he gave me the look like he was upset he didn’t get away scamming an elderly senior citizen woman. What A coincidence he didn’t ask me to tip. I can imagine how many times he takes advantage of senior citizens. We need to protect our seniors citizens elderly’s. From young kids taking advantage I guess they weren’t brought up right with respect. Do better please next time.😔

One of my favorite state parks (coming from someone who has almost visited them all). The trails are well maintained and the facilities are top notch cleaned. Brand new bathrooms. Gorgeous white rock cliffs along the water and challenging hill county quiet trails. The best of all worlds. Site 63 is my favorite for hammock camping.

One of my favorite state parks. The river felt great to get in and cool off. Trails of all levels and you can spend as much time as you would like. Camping spots are nice and have plenty of room.

The campsites are super clean, I have never come across campsites that are that clean including rest areas. They also had activity with San antonio astronomical association that evening which was a very good learning experience for kids and adults. Water level was very low , I wish it was little deeper .

Guadalupe River State Park is one of our favorite places to get outdoors. We love hiking the trails — they’re well-marked, scenic, and offer a nice mix of easy and moderate routes through the Hill Country. The views are beautiful, especially along the river, and there’s plenty of shade in most areas. Spending time by the river is the best part. The water is clean, perfect for cooling off or just relaxing by the bank, and there are several good spots for swimming or picnicking. The park is always clean and well-maintained, and the staff is friendly and helpful. Overall, it’s a great place for hiking, relaxing, and soaking up a little Texas nature.

Went to Guadalupe River State Park for the first time with my family this weekend. We had a great time. Just the what we were looking for to cool off in the water. I did make a reservation online for our visit. When we arrived it was a breeze to get in. The restrooms are big and clean. The water is warm and clean. The river does have some shallow ends and deeper ends. There are picnic tables under some trees. Definitely a must visit.

First time camping was a great experience at this location! Everyone was nice and friendly. It was quiet and weather was perfect during mid November. The restrooms and showers were clean! The park has a cleaning schedule everyday for them also and that gives a peace of mind that the park is kept up with.

Beautiful park! The Guadalupe River State Park is an amazing place to visit. The river was clear, calm, and perfect for relaxing or floating. The scenery is beautiful with plenty of space to picnic and explore. Definitely worth the trip if you’re looking for a peaceful spot to enjoy nature.

A truly beautiful place with incredible nature. Unfortunately, we visited right after a period of flooding and heavy rain. The water was not its usual blue color but rather green, and swimming was not allowed at the time. Hopefully, next time we will get to experience its full beauty. That said, we still enjoyed the peacefulness and solitude of nature, especially since there were very few people around even though it was the weekend

Blue Hole is absolutely beautiful! Nature is so serene. The water feels amazing, especially on a hot summer day. The water is so clean and refreshing. The way the trees line the water allows for a lot of shade while in water. Such a nice place to visit!

An absolute must do! I walked from town taking the nature trail which added some beautiful views of the creek lined with cypress trees! When getting to the park, Heidi was so incredibly welcoming, informative and was a great introduction to the magic that the blue hole provides! There are multiple trails to enjoy but be sure to stop by the blue hole and take a swim if in season!

Best swimming hole I’ve ever been to. Had such a good time even though I sadly messed up and only got the half day pass rather than buying both for the full day, still such a good time. The water is the perfect temperature, cold at first but stays cold even when you get used to it. Everyone was nice and there was so much room to hang. Deff won’t forget the Canopy next time we come.

The water is crystal clear, refreshing, and perfect for swimming. The surrounding nature is well maintained, with plenty of shaded areas to relax. Everything is very well organized – from booking to entry, it all went smoothly. I especially loved the calm, peaceful atmosphere, far away from any hustle and bustle. A must-visit if you’re in the area!

Absolutely gorgeous place!! The water is beautiful and cold (really cold since it’s spring fed). The little yard they have is well kept and has umbrellas for some shade in the warm months. No alcohol or smoking allowed, no pets either. There is some shallower parts, but most of it is pretty deep. They have life jackets available, free of charge. They also have a some other items available for sale like towels, floaties, water proof phone cases, shirts and hats, a vending machine with drinks. Also, you have to have a reservation before you get in!! You pay online! There are some rope swings as well and ladders at multiple points to assist you getting out. I rank this place 10/10! Will definitely visit again and again!

This place is incredible. Wimberley TX is magical. Loved the experience. Hoping to come back next year again. Can’t wait.

⚠️ Research ahead of time if they are allowing swimming. This would be a phenomenal place if the water was higher. The water level has been low due to a 3 year long drought according to one of the park rangers. Unfortunately that means no swimming and a dry creek bed. The park had nice hiking trails and really interesting master gardeners' demo gardens to check out. The park rangers were kind and informative. I would have given a 5-star rating if we could have experienced swimming there, but this is absolutely no fault to the park itself. Cypress Falls Swimming Hole is nearby if you need to take a dip but it is only open Thursday-Sunday Visited on May 12, 2025 Reviewed on May 13, 2025

We were so sad that the water levels were such that no swimming was allowed, but still a beautiful place to visit. I definitely recommend hydrating well beforehand and taking some water with you as it doesn't take long on the trails to get overheated. If you're going to visit, know that no family pets are allowed on the trails or at the well. Even though you can't swim there's still some fun stuff for the family to do. They have a natural human sun dial, a meditation walk, an area for kids to build and use their imagination with various pipes etc, and then plenty of beautiful sites to see and take photos. I hope to visit again when water levels are restored one day and take the family swimming at Jacob's Well!

The creek around the well is dry at this point. Swimming is strictly prohibited. In addition to signs, the workers approached us with a verbal warning on the way to the well and then literally ran in fear that we would be swimming. I say the pictures on the web are highly exaggerated. The well itself is no more than 6 feet wide and maybe 8 feet long at the most. The sides are clearly overgrown with eel. Idk. It’s interesting if you are in the area but it’s not worth a special trip to it. Also, it is apparently in a chain of underwater caverns that are over a mile long.

Beautiful park. Do plan ahead and buy tickets to swim if you want to swim. Information is on the brochure posted. The garden and labyrinth were highlights also. Everyone was very friendly and helpful.

Less than 10-minute walk from parking lot … No swimming/wading in August 2025… shallow water tiday - blazing Texas sun 🥵 We’ll be back in spring … maybe better then 😊😄 but I enjoy hearing crickets and birds! 🦅

Very nice hiking trails and view of narrow hole in the ground full of water...interesting nature trails with good birdwatching. Lots of Painted Bunting, Carolina Chickadees, Black Crested Titmice, and even Woodhouse's Scrub Jay.

Nice little park. Closed for swimming right now, but I couldn't picture it being open for swimming! Very small area it seemed like, I feel like itd be difficult to swim around here with more thay 20 people. Sad to see how low our aquifers are! It said this spring used to shoot water up 6 ft high! That would've been incredible to see, but it's since gotten lower and lower due to the population increase in the area.

Literally a stone's throw from Blanco TX, this park offers areas for camping, hiking and enjoying the water, whether it be fishing, tubing, swimming or just sitting and reflecting--this place brought peace to this Momma's heart. Ample amount of shaded picnic tables, camp sites and nature trails Can't wait to go back when the fall leaves start their yearly transition to the hues of fall!

Sites in the middle of beautiful tall shade trees. Next to a cow pasture, nice to hearthe low mooing sounds while enjoying the shade as the soft breeze moves through the campsites. The beautiful Blanco River skirts the park. Swimming, paddle boarding and sunbathing encouraged.

A FETCHING FAMILY-FREINDLY STATE PARK RIGHT IN THE TOWN OF BLANCO. We enjoyed a two night's stay in the middle of the week. There were a number of available RV sites, although I encourage pre-booking your stay. Two nights with our annual State Park pass only cost us $30.00 that included the daily use fees and camping fees. We liked our campsite number 20. It has a 30 amp electric connection and water connection. A number of other RV sites have 50/30 amp service with water and sewer connections. The river was reasonably clean and fairly good flow. We enjoyed a swim. We also fished and hiked the park trails. They have screened shelters that look nice too. The town of Blanco offers quite the range of restaurants and bars.

We choose a last minute weekend camping trip as it seemed somebody canceled last minute. It was beautiful and fun. The water was perfect for swimming, kyacking, fishing. Looking forward to more trips there. It was the most heavily patrolled state park I've ever been to. It was also the one with the least amount of dogs and most kids. Mostly RV's. It was so refreshing to see camping like I grew up with, kids out riding bikes, swimming, enjoying nature and unplugging. You are directly off a main road and town. Heads up there is no firewood or live bait. You can get firewood at the tractor supply store not too far into town, but they said the closest live bait was at an academy 30 minutes away 🙂.

This park is magical! Our family of 5 and friends had a blast. Park staff were kind, friendly and made sure we knew about events like Fishing 101 where our kids all got to learn about handling fish, bait and how to cast. The swimming was fun and the shade of the oak trees over our campsite was stellar.

Nice nature trails to view flora & fauna. Swimming opportunities minimal and crowded. Whole park is very narrow with limited width on each side of river, with close housing and roads, so feel more like in a very public city park.

Cute little State Park, and yes it is little! Right in the center of Blanco, TX and close to everything. Good WiFi as well (can surf the web & stream SD programs).

Visited on a grey day with perfect temps, and it turned out to be a really pleasant experience. The garden isn’t huge, but it’s packed with beautiful native Texas flowers and well-maintained trails. It’s definitely a great spot if you’re looking for a peaceful stroll and want to soak in some natural beauty without needing to spend hours wandering. The facilities are nice—clean restrooms, shaded areas, and a solid little café. It’s very family-friendly too. That said, if you’re a hardcore botanical garden enthusiast, there are more expansive and diverse gardens in the area (like the one down in San Antonio), but Lady Bird is still worth a visit, especially for a laid-back day in Austin.

Visited on 8/3/2025 — Free parking was nice, but the $36 entry fee for two adults felt a bit steep for what’s offered. It’s a peaceful, nature-filled spot great for a one-time visit if you enjoy flowers, plants, and walking trails. The moving dinosaur statues were a fun surprise, especially for kids, but there’s no major “wow” factor overall. It’s a simple, calm place . There is lot of place inside wood you can side peacefully — not overly exciting, but worth seeing at least once. Hopefully they’ll add more interactive or engaging activities in the future.

BUT!… I was here 14mo ago and this place was alive with wildlife, families and great staff. I visited today and staff is still nice BUT they’ve turned into a daycare center with hundreds of kids playing kickball and off the trails. (It’s a school day?) There is far better available for free, I probably won’t be back. Kinda sad, Austin has great playgrounds.

This was a lovely visit to the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. There were many beautiful structures and plants. I loved the diverse cactus and succulent population. It was interesting that they mixed dinosaurs with flowers. The tower was my favorite part and the gift shop had a lot of cool stuff.

This place is extremely beautiful. The architecture and gardens are authentic to Texas. The entire property and its many trails are maintained. One issue was parking, and if you plan to come over on a break or weekend, you can spend 10 minutes parking. If you have kids, come on the weekend but if you don't like kids I would suggest coming during the week. This place has a cute cafe, a themed shop, and many activities to do. I loved hearing the windchimes throughout, which sounded wonderful and added to the atmosphere. Overall, it was a splendid experience and activity with the warm weather.

Lovely park. We went to the dinosaur event on an weekend. Awesome. Our son loved the dinosaur with life-like moving that made sounds. Especially the best time is to see the whole plants and flowers are flourishing.

Happening now at The Ladybird Wildflower Center: see life sized animatronic dinosaurs - designed by the expert who worked on Jurassic Park. The dinosaurs are located in the gorgeous grounds of the incredible wildflower center. I took a guest there Monday morning and we both enjoyed being there. Summer hours are 7am-3pm with no tickets sold after 2pm.

Very cute state park! I only did 2 hikes and they were easy and well paved. Seeing the limestone at the falls and knowing it's 300 million year old is incredible. The designated swim area is gorgeous with lots of pretty shaded spots for when the Texas sun is killing you. The walk to get there has quite a few steps but pretty easy for anyone in decent shape.

Had a blast there last weekend! My partner and I went camping there and during our stay, we visited many of the trails, saw some amazing views and even got to walk on the falls due to there not being a lot of rain lately. Which ultimately led to a burn ban being placed a couple of days prior to our arrival, so we couldn’t make a fire. But that was okay because we still had a fantastic time looking at the stars from our camp site. There’s quite a few trails in the park of all different lengths. There’s a swimming area that you can cool off in, after your hike too, which was refreshing. The bathrooms were really clean and maintained. The park staff were really welcoming and helpful explaining some things throughout the park. Would definitely recommend checking this state park out. We will be back

Such a fun and fairly easy hike! Some areas can be slippery, the water levels were low when we went but it was gorgeous and worth the hike! Bring some flashlights if you go near sundown as getting back to the trail head is difficult at night.

Camped here for 2 nights, explored the falls and swimming area, and had a great time. Facilities are well maintained and clean. Some campsites have a sunshade over the picnic table already, but not all do so be aware when booking your site (always check the pictures). Beautiful weather in November 🏕️

I went to spend a few days recharging in nature. This park checked all the boxes during my stay. Beautiful scenery with decently difficult hikes for someone who needs more exercise. Big clean sites with restrooms that were also clean and accessible. I felt safe. Saw rangers patrolling regularly. It was comfortable and peaceful and I hope to go again and also to bring friends.

Pedernales Falls is an absolute must-see destination if you are visiting the greater Austin area. This park delivers stunning, unique views and offers a fantastic full-day experience for families and kids. The primary attraction is the river's astonishing view of tiered limestone falls and sculpted rocks. It's truly a geological marvel that provides unforgettable photo opportunities. The park offers a designated swimming area (separate from the falls/flow area) and ample picnic spots, making it perfect for spending the entire day outdoors. You can also enjoy fishing in designated areas along the river. Tip: Be aware that the water level changes dramatically and quickly. Always check the park signs and conditions before venturing out to the falls area, as the area can be closed during flash flooding conditions.

Entrance fee to the park is $6. It's a very well maintained place, they even have bags for picking up after your dogs along the trail. I did the Wolf Mountain Trail which was about 5.6 miles, and did it in 1.5 hours, 400 feet ascension. So most of the hikes here feel pretty modest in difficulty. The views are descent, although you need to hike at least 3 miles before you start seeing the nicer views. It can get really hot during the summer (today it was over 100 degrees) so make sure to bring enough water. If you're looking for something to do on a weekend, this is definitely a place worth checking out.

We visited Hamilton Pool Preserve on a rare spring morning, arriving right as the gates opened for our reserved time slot. The forecast had called for rain, and it did briefly sprinkle just before our hike began, making the trail a bit slick. Thankfully, walking sticks were available at the entrance, which helped on the steeper, uneven sections of the trail. The hike down to the grotto is short but moderately challenging, with stone steps and natural obstacles. Once at the pool, we were struck by the unique beauty of the setting, a collapsed grotto, sheer limestone walls, and lush greenery clinging to the cliffs. Unfortunately, due to ongoing drought conditions in Texas, the waterfall was only a light seep through the rocks. Most of the grotto was also off-limits due to falling rock hazards, which was a bit of a letdown since much of the promotional imagery and videos highlight access that is no longer available. That said, the preserve still holds incredible value. We continued our hike to the Pedernales River and were rewarded with wildflowers, lizards, and the quiet beauty of the Texas Hill Country. For birders and nature lovers, this place remains a gem, even in drought. Hamilton Pool Preserve is a place of natural and historical significance, and it's clear that the staff and stewards are working hard to protect it. While the waterfall itself may not be flowing like it once did, the hike and surrounding environment still offer a rewarding and worthwhile visit. Come prepared, manage expectations, and let nature reveal her quieter forms of magic. Four stars for the stunning setting and the well-maintained trails, minus one for the limited access to the grotto and the ongoing effects of drought on the experience. Still very much worth a visit, especially for those who appreciate the subtle beauty of the land.

Stopped by Hamilton Pool while visiting Dripping Springs and the scenery was absolutely stunning. The natural beauty of the area is unreal—peaceful, lush, and a perfect escape into nature. Was a bit disappointed to find the overhanging cliff trail closed due to safety concerns, but still had a great time exploring the area and soaking in the views. Definitely worth the visit if you’re in the area!

Hamilton Pool was a nice short hike totaling 30 minutes round trip. We visited a day after they opened the pool back up for swimming but it so happened to rain really hard the day before, causing them to close some paths and prohibit swimming that day. Unfortunately the water was a bit brown due to the rain runoff but it was still a beautiful piece of nature and we are glad we got to visit! Make sure to make a reservation before you go.

The greatest , most refreshing , beautiful , spacious swimming hole in hill county. It’s best to go during april - august for the clearest and cleanest water. You can also swim in the pedernales river. YOU NEED TO RESERVE BEFORE YOU GO

Not like the pictures that we experienced in September. Water is very dirty and felt waste of the money spent for reservation(12$) and they are charging 8$ per person at the entrance again. The trail back the falls is closed at this time. I hope they maintain the place much cleaner

Worst. Waste of time and money. Trail is good but no waterfall. Pool is small and too many bookings for a small size. Felt like little dirty pond. Too many restrictions due to danger of rocks falling from above.

Beginner friendly hiking trail that leads up to a beautiful clear blue pool. Depending on the weather and the season you go on, sometimes you will see the waterfall, and other times it will be nonexistent. Plan accordingly if you’re going to see the waterfall specifically. The hike is about 0.25 miles and isn’t very hard. Great place for people who like, or are interested in, a beginner friendly hiking trial or river trails. Water was cold on my last visit, so didn’t get to go swimming, but again, depending on the weather, it’s a great spot to cool off if going during summer time (sometimes they do close it off for swimming too, such as during Covid or when algae gets too much). If you do get in to go swimming, be careful since there’s no lifeguards on duty here. They also don’t allow pets (even on a leash), no drones, no feeding fish or wildlife, no glass containers, no stoves or starting a campfire, and no camping!🏕️ Overall, Hamilton Pool Preserve is a must visit for anyone in or around ATX, nature lovers, and beginner hiking enthusiasts looking to be rewarded with a beautiful view of the blue pool at the end of a trail. Highly recommended! 🛶🏊‍♀️🌲