🏀 Beyond the Bracket: A Final Four Guide to Real San Antonio
If you’re heading to San Antonio for the Final Four, you're probably expecting River Walk strolls, a few tacos, and some college hoops. And while all of that’s great—you’d be missing out if you didn’t venture a little beyond downtown.
This guide is for visitors who want to experience the real San Antonio—local flavor, low-key adventures, and puro experiences that don’t come with a crowd.
🍽️ Where to Eat (Like a Local)
Skip the chain restaurants and overpriced spots near the arena. These are the neighborhood places locals go back to again and again:
DASHI Sichuan Kitchen + Bar (Thousand Oaks) A bold, buzzy spot serving real-deal Sichuan dishes. It’s a fun pick for foodies looking to try something different—spicy, flavorful, and full of energy.
Meadow Neighborhood Eatery & Bar (Artisan's Alley) Upscale but laid-back. Expect seasonal dishes, excellent service, and a patio perfect for a long lunch. Pro tip: shop the alley before or after your meal.
Two Bros. BBQ Market (West Ave) Texas BBQ in its most comforting form—picnic tables, smoky brisket, cherry-glazed ribs, and all the sides. Casual, family-friendly, and no reservations needed.
Pumpers (Broadway) A burger joint with old-school charm and serious flavor. No frills, just really good burgers and fries in a relaxed setting.
Pepe’s Tacos & Salsa (Various Locations) Quick, no-nonsense tacos with homemade salsas. Go for breakfast tacos if you’re up early or street-style tacos later in the day.
Pete’s Tako House (Near San Pedro Springs Park) A puro San Antonio classic. The fideo is a must, and it’s one of those spots where you’ll see three generations of locals eating at the same table.
🐾 Off-the-Court Adventures
Need a break from basketball? These easy day trips and activities get you out of the crowds without going off the grid.
Natural Bridge Caverns Just 30 minutes from downtown, you can explore underground cave systems, zipline, or try the ropes course.
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch Next door to the caverns, this drive-thru safari is unexpectedly awesome—zebras, ostriches, and other animals walk right up to your car.
Tejas Rodeo Company (Bulverde) If you’re in town Saturday night, this is a must. Small-town rodeo, live music, and dancing under the stars. Get there early for dinner and a margarita.
San Antonio Zoo & Japanese Tea Garden Tucked into Brackenridge Park, the zoo is charming and walkable, and the adjacent Tea Garden is a beautiful (and free!) place to slow down and reset.
Museum Reach (North River Walk) This quieter stretch of the River Walk runs from downtown through the Pearl District and up to the San Antonio Museum of Art. It’s scenic, walkable, and lined with public art, native landscaping, and peaceful energy.
Mission Reach (South River Walk) A beautiful 8-mile extension of the River Walk connecting four historic Spanish missions. Great for walking, biking, or just exploring a quieter, nature-rich side of the city.
H-E-B Grocery Store Yep, a grocery store. But if you’re not from Texas, trust us—it’s worth a stop. The bakery, fresh tortillas, and meal kits are top-tier. It's a crash course in Texas grocery culture.
🍹 Sips & Treats (Because You’re on Vacation)
Whether you’re pre-gaming or just need to cool off, these spots deliver something cold and satisfying:
Frutería Nieves (West Side or South Side) Mangonadas, paletas, raspas, fruit cups—you can’t go wrong. This is San Antonio street snack culture at its best.
La Gloria (Pearl or Dominion) Great for frozen margaritas, micheladas, and snacks like street corn and tacos. If you’re headed to or from the rodeo or caverns, the Dominion location is an easy stop.
Rosario’s Mexican Café y Cantina (Southtown) One of the city’s most beloved spots for margaritas, enchiladas, and people-watching. It’s got the energy of a celebration without the downtown chaos.
Buc-ee’s (New Braunfels) It’s a gas station, sure—but also a full-on Texas experience. Brisket sandwiches, jerky walls, souvenir overload, and yes… the cleanest bathrooms you’ve ever seen. And the most superior gummy bears in the world.
🏀 Don’t Just Visit—Experience San Antonio
The Final Four brings the crowds, but these local favorites let you explore San Antonio like you’ve been coming here for years. Whether you're here for the basketball or the snacks (no judgment), the city has plenty to offer just outside the downtown core.
For help designing unforgettable guest experiences, check out kellyhaynie.com. I'm always happy to share the good stuff.
