Located on a lush 343 acres at the base of the San Antonio River headwaters, Brackenridge Park has shown evidence of human habitation dating as far back as 11,000 years, and it’s still just as popular! Yes, that was just in good humor, but in all seriousness, this present-day park in San Antonio is currently home to so many activities and things to see. The San Antonio Zoo, San Antonio Botanical Gardens, The Japanese Tea Garden, The Brackenridge Eagle (a kiddie train), Kiddie Park (the oldest children’s amusement theme park in the U.S.), the Sunken Garden Theater, and the Witte Museum all make their home at Brackenridge in the Texas Hill Country. And although it can’t be your home, it can certainly help in the creation of great memories for you and your family.
Things to Do
Why You Need to Visit San Antonio’s Brackenridge Park
The Japanese Tea Garden
Photo: Facebook/Mike Potter
Opened in an abandoned limestone rock quarry early in the 20th century, the Japanese Tea Garden (also referred to as the Sunken Gardens) is listed on the U.S. National Register of Historic Places. Circa 1917, City Parks Commissioner Ray Lambert foresaw an oriental-style garden in the pit of the quarry. After planning and fundraising, the work began to layout pathways and bridges, with all work being completed by prison labor. After a storied past, parts of the garden and its outbuildings underwent restoration in both 2007 and 2009, after which it was named a Texas Civil Engineering Landmark, and a Registered Texas Historic Landmark.
The Brackenridge Eagle
Photo: Facebook/Mike Potter
A good little ride for the kids, lasting approximately 20 minutes, the Brackenridge Eagle moves through the foliage of the park as well as a short tunnel, where the engineers encourage the kids to join in a cheer. The ride first opened in 1956 and it currently makes use of 3 Chance Rides C.P. Huntington locomotives. It also makes a stop at the Japanese Tea Garden and of course the San Antonio Zoo. It’s a quiet and fun ride for the kids, and relaxing opportunity to sit for the parents!
Playgrounds, Pavilions, and Walking Trails
Photo: Facebook/San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department
Aside from all of the exciting things to see and do at the park, it also lends itself nicely to regular park activities. The playgrounds are extensive and fun, the pavilions can host a number of family meals or gatherings, and the walking trails are well maintained and clean. Since you’ll most likely be at Brackenridge Park for time at the San Antonio Zoo or a visit to the San Antonio Botanical Gardens, why not also take advantage of some down time to experience one of the more expansive and diverse parks in the city.
