Experience this free splash pad for the kids at the Historic Pearl this summer. | Photo via Historic Pearl
If you live in San Antonio, you get a lovely mix of scorching temps and thick humidity from May through September. That’s why we rounded up 16 water activities in and around the Alamo City — including some free options — to help you stay cool in the pool.
City pools
The Aquatics Division of the San Antonio Parks and Recreation manages 25 city pools — even sweeter, access is free. This department also offers swimming lessons for all ages. Six pre-season pools are open now, with the others to follow.
Splash pads
Parents, sit back + relax in the shade with your favorite book while your little ones play in one of these free splash pads.
Benavides Park, 500 Saltillo St.
Pack a lunch and spend the entire day at this city park, which features a shaded splash pad, playground, and pavilion.
Gustav’s Geysers, The Historic Pearl
Grab a scoop (or two) of ice cream after you’ve cooled off in the splash pad.
“Moulin Rouge!” The Musical | Tuesday, May 27-Sunday, June 1 | Times vary | Majestic Theatre | $58+ | This production is the winner of 10 Tony Awards, including “Best Musical.”
Wednesday, May 28
San Antonio FC vs. FC Tulsa | 7 p.m. | Toyota Field | $22+ | Root for the home team on Health and Wellness Night, plus save room for $2 hot dogs.
Thursday, May 29
The Art of Tequila: History, Heritage, and Tasting | 6-8 p.m. | The Briscoe Western Art Museum | $35+ | This 21+ event offers a spirited journey through the history of tequila by pairing a curated tasting of Mar Azul Tequila and small bites.
Friday, May 30
Candlelight: A Tribute to Coldplay | 6-7 p.m. | The Josephine Theatre | $50+ | Hear up to 11 of Coldplay’s hits, like “Yellow” and “Clocks,” played under candlelight by a string quartet.
Saturday, May 31
KidsFest | 11 a.m.-3 p.m. | Traders Village | Cost of purchase | The 8th annual gathering features interactive activities, arts and crafts + a community resource fair.
A local real estate firm is expected to break ground next month on an 18,067-sqft retail development on the Far West Side — 2807 Talley Rd. Confirmed tenants so far include Fatburger, Roundtable Pizza, and Mr. Liquor. (San Antonio Business Journal)
Plan Ahead
As UTSA Football enters its 15th season, the program is looking to break its all-time home attendance record — 56,743 fans in 2011 — against Texas State on Saturday, Sept. 6. For the next 30 days, single-game tickets for the opener will be 35% off.
Arts
Mark your calendar for Friday, June 6. That’s when “In the Shadows, Our Ghosts Lurk,” the Contemporary at Blue Star’s newest exhibition, opens to the public. Through Sunday, Oct. 5, you can explore how modern technology has contributed to broader surveillance.
Eat
Chicken strips are back at McDonald’s. The McCrispy Strips recently became the restaurant’s first permanent addition in four years. Prices can vary by location, but you can usually get a combo meal for around $10. If this isn’t your flavor, explore other local restaurants offering meals $15 and under.
Travel
Airbnb just launched a new in-app feature that allows you to book services and activities. Imagine a sushi chef in a shipping container apartment. But if you’re just looking for a cool place to stay,browse some of our favorite Airbnbs.
Sports
The Spurs’ path forward is largely dependent on what happens in the off-season. Get the latest news, analysis, and insider information for the San Antonio Spurs with Locked On’s daily, team-focused podcasts.
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The Buy
A great find in Nordstrom’s Half-Yearly Sale. Markdowns as high as 60% are on the table — here’s what we’re eyeing:
🛍️ This cozy, ultra-soft cardigan is 30% off and perfect for relaxing in.
🛍️ Get 30% off petite wide-leg linen pants that are breezy and light for summer.
🛍️ Take 60% off this blue wrap dress that can take you straight from the office to drinks out.
🛍️ These Nordstrom brand men’s chinos come in tan, grey, or navy — all are up to 40% off.
🛍️ This Tory Burch tote was recently marked down by 30% — we’re only a little obsessed with the print.
Speaking of ways to cool off — $0.75 beer for SeaWorld San Antonio pass members 21+ returns to Lone Star Lakeside Bar the entire month of June. You can order up to two discounted brews per visit.