Outdoor Fun and Family-Friendly Activities Near Randolph AFB
Who says your TDY with family can’t be fun? Randolph AFB is situated just outside of San Antonio, and it’s more than just a hub for military training—it’s a gateway to countless adventures that will have your family grinning from ear to ear. Prepare to be spoiled for choice, as we dive into the most exciting, educational, and all-around fantastic family-friendly activities around Randolph. Get ready to create unforgettable memories and stories that you’ll be sharing at every family gathering!
Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch
Embark on a Texas-sized safari at Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch! Located approximately 30 miles from Randolph AFB, this 450-acre ranch is home to over 500 animals from around the globe. Drive through the park and witness giraffes, zebras, and ostriches up close—just be prepared for some serious staring contests! After your drive, stretch your legs in the petting zoo and butterfly garden, where you can practice your butterfly-whispering skills. Don’t forget to take a guided tour, where knowledgeable staff share fascinating animal facts and stories. And if you’re feeling peckish, swing by the Safari Camp Grill for some tasty grub.
The San Antonio Zoo
The San Antonio Zoo is where you’ll come face-to-face with more than 750 species of animals across 56 acres, and you might even learn a thing or two about conservation. Just under a 30-minute drive from Randolph AFB, the zoo offers exhibits like Africa Live! and Big Cat Valley—perfect for practicing your lion roar. Enjoy interactive experiences like feeding the giraffes and lorikeets, but remember, no sharing your snacks! The zoo also hosts special events throughout the year, like Zoo Boo during Halloween and Zoo Lights during the holiday season. And don’t forget to hop aboard the San Antonio Zoo Eagle train for a scenic ride through Brackenridge Park.
The DoSeum
Just a 25-minute drive from Randolph AFB, The DoSeum awaits to unleash your inner child. San Antonio’s premier children’s museum is perfect for young children and the young at heart. With interactive exhibits like the Spy Academy and an outdoor adventure area, you might just find yourself more excited than the kids! Explore the Little Town exhibit to try on different careers—because it’s never too late to dream big. The DoSeum also offers special programs like summer camps, workshops, and family nights, making it a go-to destination for year-round entertainment. Plus, with rotating exhibits, there’s always something new to discover on your next visit.
Schlitterbahn Waterpark
Make a splash at Schlitterbahn Waterpark, located approximately 40 miles from Randolph AFB. This world-renowned water park boasts over 50 attractions, including water slides so fast they’ll make your head spin! Lazy rivers and wave pools provide a nice contrast for those seeking a more relaxing experience. Lodging and dining options are also available—perfect for that impromptu weekend escape from reality. Schlitterbahn offers a variety of events throughout the season, such as Dive-In Movies and live music performances, ensuring there’s never a dull moment. For the ultimate family bonding experience, challenge your clan to a friendly race down the park’s many water slides!
Brackenridge Park
Discover the hidden gem that is Brackenridge Park, nestled along the San Antonio River. This 343-acre park offers family-friendly amenities like picnic areas, playgrounds, walking trails, and a historic Japanese Tea Garden that’ll have you snapping selfies left and right. And with the San Antonio Zoo located within the park, you might just find yourself having a delightful conversation with a parrot while enjoying your lunch. Brackenridge Park also houses the Brackenridge Park Golf Course, an ideal spot for families to practice their swings or introduce the kids to the sport. The park hosts various community events throughout the year, from outdoor movie nights to seasonal festivals, ensuring there’s always something new to experience.
Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo
Get ready for a slithering good time at the Animal World & Snake Farm Zoo, just 40 miles from Randolph AFB. This unique zoo showcases a wide variety of snakes, as well as other exotic animals like lemurs, kangaroos, and hyenas. Attend the daily snake shows, and don’t be surprised if you find yourself cheering on your favorite serpent! Interactive experiences, such as feeding some of the animals, make this an exciting and educational outing for the whole family. The zoo also offers behind-the-scenes tours, allowing your family to get up close and personal with some of the animals while learning about their care and conservation efforts. Don’t miss the Reptile House, where you can marvel at an impressive collection of scaly creatures from around the world.
Life near Randolph is anything but dull, and these family-friendly activities are here to prove it! From wildlife encounters that will make you feel like you’ve stepped into an episode of Planet Earth, to adrenaline-pumping waterparks that might just make you question the laws of gravity, there’s something to tickle everyone’s fancy in the vibrant area surrounding Randolph AFB. So, gather your troop, gear up for adventure, and set out to explore these amazing attractions—you’ll be laughing, learning, and making memories that will last a lifetime!