If you’re wondering where to take pictures in San Antonio, as always, your internet big sister Gina Bear has got you covered. In this post, we’re going to find the most Instagram-worthy places in San Antonio Texas.
San Antonio is a seriously underrated city in Texas. I had the opportunity to visit for a week in 2021 and then I lived there for six weeks while I did my training for Southwest Airlines. I really got the chance to explore and have the best time.
Table of Contents
Blog Posts You Might Like
- The Most Instagram Worthy Places in Austin
- The Perfect Three Day Weekend Guide To Austin, Texas
- The Best Three Day Weekend Guide to San Antonio, Texas
Map of San Antonio Instagram Worthy Spots
1. The Alamo
Did you really go to San Antonio if you didn’t visit the Alamo? At the Alamo, you’ll learn about the soldiers who lost their lives after 13 days fighting. This is one of the most historic buildings in San Antonio and I feel like it really speaks for the love many Texans have for the Lone Star State.
After all, the went after Santa Ana and were like, “Remember the Alamo [bitch]?” Just kidding. I don’t think they said that, but it would have been funny if they did. The San Antonio de Valero Mission (aka the Alamo) was the first mission built. You can book a guided Alamo tour here.
2. San Fernando Cathedral
The San Fernando Cathedral is a historic church built in 1738. It was once occupied by General Santa Ana and is the site of hero Jim Bowie’s wedding.
The Cathedral is one of the best places to take pictures in San Antonio since the buiding is still so beautiful and well-maintained. It’s one of the best photo spots since it makes it look like you’re somewhere in Spain.
3. Mission Concepcion
These Spanish colonial missions are the only UNESCO World Heritage Site in Texas and part of the National Park Service. Dedicated in 1755, Mission Concepción is America’s oldest unrestored church and a landmark of Spanish colonial times. The missions are all located in southern San Antonio.
Recommended San Antonio Mission Tours
- San Antonio Mission Private Tour With Round Trip Transport
- San Antonio Group Missions Tour With Round Trip Transport
- Historic San Antonio Two Missions Bike Tour (North Route)
- Historic San Antonio Two Missions Bike Tour (South Route)
- Historic San Antonio Three Missions Bike Tour (4 Hour Tour)
4. Mission San Jose
Mission San Jose is Texas’ largest historic mission with a carved limestone facade and rose window. Since the grounds are vast, chances of getting people in your photo are slim. This is one of the most gorgeous spots of all the missions.
This is a great photoshoot location in San Antonio. It is also known as the Queen of the Missions.
5. Mission San Juan Capistrano
Mission San Juan Capistrano is the remains of a Spanish mission that housed indigenous converts and includes an unfinished 1780s church. I really love the construction of the three bells at the front of the church. The uniqueness of Mission San Juan Capistrano is what makes it one of the most Instagrammable places in San Antonio.
6. Mission Espada
Mission Espada is Texas’s oldest Spanish Colonial mission. They offer tours and mass in its 18th-century church.
7. The Artisan
The Artisan is a beautiful shop that brings the culture of Mexico to the USA. I absolutely love colorful murals and this one was the most beautiful.
On the outside is a stunning mural which makes it one of the most Instagrammable places in San Antonio. Don’t miss this super cute spot!
8. Essex Modern City
If you’re looking for cool and interesting places to take photos then you need to go to Essex Modern City. They have plenty of wall murals to choose from. Essex Modern City is easily one of the best San Antonio photography spots for how versatile your content can be on social media.
This is the perfect place to spend the afternoon. Local artists have contributed to making this space what it is.
9. Greetings From San Antonio Mural
Next up on our list of San Antonio Photography locations, we have the “Greetings From San Atonio Mural.” Honestly, every place I travel in the States, I’ve been collecting these photos.
10. Let’s Fiesta
Long live the party! Am I right? Or am I right? This super cute shop has a range of colorful souvenirs relating to San Antonio’s annual fiesta event. This area has many bars and restaurants so this mural is absolutely perfect.
11. Rainbow Wings
I guarantee if you post these wings on Instagram, they’re going to do really well. Let’s be real, anything with wings on it does super well on Instagram. These rainbow wings by the Culture Hair Studio along The Strip is one of the most Instagram worthy spots in San Antonio.
12. Rainbow Crosswalk
The Rainbow Crosswalk is repeated for several blocks so you can choose which backdrop, angle, and lighting strikes your fancy. This is one of my favorite San Antonio photo spots especially when creating content for Pride Month in June.
13. Optimism by Frost Bank Mural
This “Optimism Starts With You” mural sends a positive message. Remember to think about three things you’re grateful for every morning. This unique design reminds you that no matter how hard things get, it will turn out okay.
14. World’s Largest Cowboy Boots
This is the perfect spot to prove you’re in Texas, I don’t know what does. Cowboy boots are a staple of the south. The World’s Largest Cowboy boots is a super recognizable San Antonio photo spot. The best time to go is in the early afternoon during the weekday to avoid the traffic.
15. Japanese Tea Garden
If you’re looking for free places to take pictures in San Antonio, go to the Japanese Tea Garden. The property was super peaceful and welcoming. Of course I had to visit because you can take the girl out of Japan, but you can’t take the love for Japan out of the girl. There’s gorgeous waterfalls, koi fish ponds, and Asian inspired landscaping.
16. Wings of Mexico
Oh yes, there’s another set of wings on this list because these are absolutely stunning wings in the middle of Hemisfair Park. The Wings of Mexico is a favorite among tourists for picture places in San Antonio.
It has the perfect backdrop of the Tower of the Americas as well. It’s a great spot for your Instagram photos because anything with wings does well. If you’d like to go up the Tower of the Americas, book your ticket here.
17. Denman Estate Park
Denman Estate Park is a great place to take pictures in San Antonio. This park is super famous for their Korean pagoda that seems to seamlessly float on the scenic pond around it.
The pagoda was a gift from Gwangju which is a sister city of San Antonio. It was given as a symbol of friendship between the two cities.
18. San Antonio Botanical Garden
My mom absolutely loves botanical gardens so when I saw the beautiful garden inside a stunning glass dome and surrounded by palm trees and flowers, I knew I had to take her here. She absolutely loved it and so did I. You can easily book your tickets to the San Antonio Botanical Garden here.
19. San Antonio Riverwalk
When you think San Antonio, all locals will tell you the San Antonio Riverwalk is a tourist must see. Did you know you can also go to the Bier Garten, get a tasty drink and walk around with your alcohol open. Just note you cannot take it onto the street above. There’s also so many amazing restaurants and bars lining the San Antonio Riverwalk.
20. La Villita
The roots of La Villita go way back to the 18th century. During the Texas War for independence from Mexico, it became a site of revolutionary activity.
Now, it’s a super cute village with boutique shops and local restaurants and live music. It is characterized by the lovely stone bridges connecting opposite sides of the River Walk.
21. Sunset Station
Sunset Station is a historical building located near the downtown area and San Antonio Riverwalk. This historic train station is a popular venue for weddings and other large events. If you’re looking for San Antonio photoshoot locations for prom or a wedding, the inside is stunning.
22. Majestic Theatre
This is the best place to get your Broadway in San Antonio from The Lion King to Rent. Both the inside and outside are super photo worthy. Book your tickets to see a Broadway show to the Majestic Theatre here.
23. San Antonio Historic Market Square
The Square has so many aesthetic places in San Antonio. It is so vibrant and filled with color especially because of the papel picado. El Mercado is located in the heart of San Antonio.
I really felt like I was in Mexico. It is a three-block outdoor plaza lined with shops, and restaurants in downtown San Antonio, Texas.
Market Square is the largest Mexican market in the United States. Give yourself plenty of time to explore and eat the latest food at Mi Tierra Cafe y Panaderia for a delicious Mexican bakery and Tex-Mex dishes.
24. King William Historic District
In the mid-1800s German immigrants began buying property and building European style homes. There are really cool Victorian Era homes and it makes for an amazing historical backdrop. Because of my love for history, this is one of the most Instagram worthy places in San Antonio.
I highly recommend going to Walter’s house. It is a fully restored Victorian Italian home and for those who loved the literature during the period (myself included) you’re really going to geek out with all this. They also have many homes in the Greek Revival style.
My favorite part was the ceiling to floor library and the garden outside. The King William Historic District has my pick for the most Instagram worthy places in San Antonio.
25. Liberty Bar
Established in 1984, Liberty Bar is all about character, context and authenticity. I find this building to be very interesting because it was an old convent for nuns turned into a bar.
It’s located in the King William District and adds to the charm of this historical neighborhood. Also… The fact that its pink makes it one of the most instagram-worthy bars.
26. Paramour
If you’re looking for incredible rooftop views with a fun drink in hand, then you have to check out Paramour. The decor is inspired by everything Mexico and Catrinas making it a very eclectic rooftop bar in San Antonio.
This is also a great place to see a great drag show or two. I had to include the best rooftop bar in the most Instagrammable places in San Antonio!
27. NOLA Brunch & Beignets
NOLA Brunch and Beignets brings a little bit of that Louisana soul and comfort cooking to San Antonio. Therefore, I have definitely crowned NOLA Brunch and Beignets as one of the most Instagram worthy restaurants in San Antonio.
28. Smoke BBQ + Skybar
Another wonderful Instagram worthy restaurant in San Antonio is the Smoke BBQ + Skybar. You’ll get the super unique experience with stunning views, live Djs, Texas barbecue and drinks. Your furry friend is also welcome to come until 7pm.
29. Wonder Chamber
They have different seasons with really cool Instagrammable rooms. Instagram museums are always a great idea for a photoshoot in San Antonio.
It’s a space to get creative, take some amazingly cool photos, and interact with the immersive art. Since this space is all about the ‘gram, Wonder Chamber is one of the most Instagram worthy spots in San Antonio.
30. St. Anthony Hotel
The St. Anthony Hotel is a beautiful luxury collection hotel. Get a drink at their Rebelle Bar and take a photo in their stunning lobby. Or if you’re feeling bougie and would like to splurge, you can book your stay at the St. Anthony Hotel here.
31. Hotel Havana
Hotel Havan prides itself on bringing a youthful spirit with old world elegance. A great way to enjoy the hotel is via the Ocho Lounge which is situated in a glass observatory overlooking the River Walk.
It has an abundance of natural light which lends to the aesthetic of the restaurant. This is one of the most beautiful restaurants I’ve ever seen. Their chef-driven concept is to blend all the influences around them of Mexico, Cuba, and Texas. Book your stay at Hotel Havana here.
32. McNay Art Museum
This hidden gem of course has larger-than-life art installations. From painting and sculpture to works on paper and more, the McNay offers a unique art museum experience. Their most popular exhibit is Dreamland | Tim Burton’s The Nightmare Before Christmas.
33. Hays Street Bridge
Next on our list of photo ops, we’re going to check out the Hays Street Bridge. From a vehicular bridge in the 1900s to a pedestrian bridge in modern times, it is an important connector in the history of San Antonio and the City’s East Side.
33. Hugman’s Oasis
This adorable establishment has a tiki-tastic interior. Here they bring you the flavors of the South Pacific for your night out. This fun restaurant definitely earned its spot as one of the most instagrammable places in San Antonio!
34. Texas Hill Country
If you just want to get out of metropolitan areas and enjoy the country, you’ll find yourself on a scenic drive through the Texas Hill Country. Some of the best wines actually do come from Texas and I’m absolutely obsessed with their Tempranillo. I love dry red wine.
They have many great options for wine tasting and hanging out with friends. I recommend booking a winery tour here. Don’t drink and drive friends!
35. Hotel Emma
Located in the iconic Pearl area, you HAVE to check out Hotel Emma. It’s a five star boutique hotel that is a recently renovated brewery. Back in the day when German immigrates settled the San Antonio area, a guy named Koehler established Pearl Pearl. The beer got its name from the white bubbles that would form while the beer was being made. It has a triple X for quality.
Hotel Emma got its name from Koehler’s wife who was a brilliant CEO and marketer after she took over the company. At the Pearl you can walk around, drink, and eat at the delicious restaurants there. You can even book a food and history walking tour of the Pearl.
My mom and I took so many photos here because it is such a stunning property and one of the most Instagram worthy places in San Antonio. Honestly, I’d love to come back and stay. If you’d like to book a stay at Hotel Emma, click here.
36. The Buckhorn Museum
The Buckhorn Museum originally started off as a saloon in 1881. The owner began collecting horns and antlers to decorate his establishment. You can drink and even practice your sharp shooting skills in our Toepperwein Shooting Gallery. I usually stay far away from tourist traps, but this is one of the funniest ones I’ve ever been to. Thus, I truly believe the Buckhorn Museum definitely makes it onto the most Instagram worthy places in San Antonio. You really feel like you’re in Texas when you’re here. When in San Antonio, do as they do, right?
37. Six Flags Fiesta Texas
One thing I learned about Texas… No one loves Texas as much as Texas loves Texas. This love is displayed in their giant Texas shaped swimming pool. Six Flags is one of my favorite theme parks in the United States and I almost always visit whenever I get the chance. You can get discounted Six Flags Fiesta San Antonio tickets here with the Go Pass.
I found many of these cute places to take pictures on San Antonio instagram 365. I hope you visit these wonderful Instagram-worthy places in San Antonio. Drop me a comment below if you find any other cool spots and I’ll add it to the list.
This post contains affiliate links which means at no additional cost to you, I make a small commission to help keep Gina Bear’s Blog running. Thanks for your support!
Free Seoul E-Book
Do you love South Korea?
Enter your name and email address and click the button below to receive your Easy Seoul Travel Guide so you can travel like a local!
