If you’re stationed at Randolph AFB, Lackland AFB, or Fort Sam Houston for a Temporary Duty Assignment (TDY), you’ll find San Antonio offers incredible opportunities to explore when you’re off-duty. From historic landmarks to vibrant nightlife, here’s your ultimate guide to making the most of your TDY in Military City, USA.
Must See Attractions
1. The Alamo & San Antonio Missions
📍 Downtown San Antonio
📌 Why Go? No TDY in San Antonio is complete without visiting The Alamo, the iconic 18th-century mission. Explore the UNESCO World Heritage Site and learn about Texas history. The other four missions (Concepción, San José, San Juan, and Espada) are equally impressive and bike able via the Mission Trail.
2. The River Walk (Paseo del Río)
📍 Along the San Antonio River
📌 Why Go? Stroll along the famous River Walk, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops. Take a guided boat tour, enjoy Tex-Mex cuisine, or just relax by the water.
3. Tower of the Americas
📍 Hemisfair Park
📌 Why Go? For the best views of the city, head to this 750-foot observation tower. The rotating restaurant is perfect for a special night out.
Outdoor & Adventure Activities
4. Natural Bridge Caverns
📍 About 30 min from Randolph AFB
📌 Why Go? Explore stunning underground caves with guided tours. Great for a weekend adventure!
5. San Antonio Botanical Garden
📍 Near Fort Sam Houston
📌 Why Go? A peaceful escape with beautiful gardens, walking trails, and seasonal exhibits.
6. Government Canyon State Natural Area
📍 Northwest San Antonio
📌 Why Go? Hike or bike through scenic trails, including dinosaur tracks!
Military & Aviation Highlights
7. Lackland AFB’s Airman Heritage Museum
📍 Lackland AFB
📌 Why Go? A must-visit for military personnel, showcasing Air Force history and training heritage.
8. Texas Air Museum (Stinson Chapter)
📍 Near Stinson Municipal Airport
📌 Why Go? Features vintage aircraft and aviation history, including WWII-era planes.
Food & Nightlife
9. Historic Market Square
📍 Downtown
📌 Why Go? The largest Mexican market outside Mexico—perfect for souvenirs, live music, and authentic food.
10. The Pearl District
📍 North of Downtown
📌 Why Go? A trendy hotspot with top-rated restaurants, breweries, and a weekend farmers market.
11. Cowboys Dancehall
📍 Near Port San Antonio
📌 Why Go? If you love country music and dancing, this is the place to be!
Quick Day Trips
12. Fredericksburg (Texas Hill Country)
📍 1.5-hour drive
📌 Why Go? Visit wineries, the WWII Pacific War Museum, and charming German-inspired shops.
13. Schlitterbahn Waterpark (New Braunfels)
📍 45 min from San Antonio
📌 Why Go? A fun way to cool off in the Texas heat!
Tips for TDY Explorers
- Use Your Weekends Wisely – Many attractions are less crowded on Sundays.
- Military Discounts – Ask about ID-based discounts at museums and restaurants.
- Ride-Sharing – San Antonio is spread out, so Uber/Lyft can save time.
Need a Place to Stay?
Book a comfortable Crashpad near your base with Dream TDY for a hassle-free TDY experience!
