20 of the Best Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids

20 of the Best Things to Do in San Antonio With Kids

Located in the Great State of Texas, San Antonio is a haven for adults and kids alike. If you’re looking for kid-friendly things to do in San Antonio, there’s no shortage of options.

You’re sure to find something for your little ones from fun-filled days at a zoo or educational science and art getaways. What’s more, everything on this list is also perfect for adults to enjoy too.

Here’s a selection of the best family things to do in San Antonio.

Top 20 Things to Do in San Antonio with Kids

Wondering what to do in San Antonio with kids? Wonder no more because this list will fill your weekends, whether you’re a local or just passing through as part of a grand tour of the Lone Star State.

Kids of all ages will have something to do, whether they’re just discovering the world for the first time or want to learn more about science and history.

  1. San Antonio Zoo

    No trip to the city would be complete without a visit to the San Antonio Zoo. The zoo covers a massive 35 acres of the city, with 3,500 animals and 750 species. It’s something that will tempt adults and kids alike.

    The zoo is not just about seeing the animals. You can even schedule some behind-the-scenes interactions with certain animals. Spot the best African wildlife with giraffes, hippos, and rhinos included in the itinerary.

    If the kiddos get tired, you can ride the zoo’s dedicated train to see your favorite animals or enjoy fun on the carousel. Ideal for all ages, so even dad won’t get bored.

  2. San Antonio Aquarium

    You’ve seen the best of what’s on land. Now it’s time to see the best of what’s hiding in the water. One of the best kids’ activities in San Antonio is a trip to the ocean in the middle of Texas.

    It’s the perfect indoor activity to escape the summer heat. Learn something about the creatures that inhabit the briny depths. Some of the highlights of the aquarium include the glowing jellyfish, seahorses playing with each other, and a giant octopus.

    What’s more, there are ample opportunities to interact with the animals. Your kids will be able to get up close and personal with mammals, reptiles, birds, and of course, fish. One of the best sessions is being able to feed the giant octopus by yourself!

  3. Spin Art Classes

    Are you ready to get messy with the kids? Schedule a spin art class if you’re looking for things to do in San Antonio with kids that’ll get those creative juices flowing.

    Spin art is painting with a difference. Add paint to the canvas while it spins, creating incredible, amazing pieces of unique artwork. Spin Art Nation is ideal for all ages, and there are sessions dedicated to each age group, including whole families that want to join in on all the fun.

    The best part about spin art is it doesn’t matter how artistically gifted your kids are. This is a nonjudgmental and inclusive environment where everyone is welcome to throw paint around for a few hours.

    Just make sure you bring a spare pair of clothes!

  4. LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio

    Set aside a whole day for the LEGOLAND Discovery Center San Antonio. Whether you’re spending the weekend in town or want to plan a birthday for your kids and all their friends, this is the place for an unforgettable experience.

    LEGOLAND gives you ten different LEGO zones for the kids to explore, with a play area, two rides, and a 4D cinema theater. Perhaps the biggest attraction of San Antonio’s LEGOLAND is that all of San Antonio’s well-known landmarks have been faithfully recreated with Lego bricks.

  5. SeaWorld San Antonio

    If your kids want to get up close and personal with big animals, SeaWorld San Antonio is the place to be. Dive right in with epic rides and memorable shows.

    Attend the Sesame Street Parade for a music highlight show featuring all the memorable characters from the show. With ten different themed boats and incredible performances, it’s an event that’s sure to enchant the kids.

    You can spot crashing whales, diving sharks, and you may even be lucky enough to witness a dolphin battle.

    If you’re ready for some adrenaline-filled action, sail to Discovery Point to see the dolphins or ride the Great White coaster to witness the ocean’s apex predators.

  6. The DoSeum

    Museums don’t have to be dry, dull affairs with lots of reading to do. Visit the museum where the kids will never get bored, The DoSeum.

    The DoSeum offers an interactive experience for adults and kids alike. It’s like the school that doesn’t feel like school because the principle of this experience is interactive play. Your kids will never even realize they’re learning something new.

    Even better, if you visit during the summer season, there are more than 40 camps to choose from. Kids can learn about the joy of creating their own fashion collections, the science behind cooking, and even digging for dinosaur bones.

  7. Morgan’s Wonderland

    Take a trip to the world’s only ultra-accessible family fun park covering over 25 acres. You’ll find rides, attractions, and great activities for children of all ages. Morgan’s Wonderland is all about inclusion for those with and without disabilities.

    The success of this park has also led to the adjacent Morgan’s Inspiration Island, an ultra-accessible splash park over three acres, consisting of boat rides and five splash pads.

    Bring along your swimsuit and cool off during the hot Texas summer.

  8. Natural Bridge Caverns

    Get into nature and show your kids some of the natural wonders of Texas. Natural Bridge Caverns is the oldest cave system in Texas, delving 180 feet below the Earth’s surface. Amaze them with the natural formations of the glittering underground chambers.

    Take a guided tour before heading onto the world’s largest zip rails and ropes facility. Twisted Trails is an excellent option for older kids who want to get active. For the little ones, there’s Twisted Tykes.

    Finally, your kids can even mine for precious gems and fossils at the Discovery Village Mining Company. They have a real working sluice your kids can enjoy. These are the San Antonio kids’ activities that’ll make any weekend.

  9. Science Mill

    Science can be fun, too, with the Science Mill located in nearby Johnson City. Get out of town and walk into a family destination that’s all about interactive learning. The Science Mill has built cutting-edge attractions and activities to keep the kids interested all day.

    You’ll see that the Science Mill is based in an authentic mill from the 1880s. It’s big enough to house more than 50 exhibits indoors and outdoors.

    Plan your visit and find out about some of the events on offer right now. If you’re looking for San Antonio things to do with kids that are also educational, this is the place to be.

  10. The Witte Museum

    If the temperatures are too high or the rain too much, head inside to the Witte Museum. The Witte Museum combines culture, nature, and science for an afternoon like no other.

    Located on the riverside, this is one of the most fun things to do in San Antonio for kids because there is everything from theater players to cattle kings and dinosaur fossils. With so many flavors housed under one roof, there’s sure to be something your kids will just love.

  11. San Antonio Botanical Garden

    Explore the city’s very own urban oasis with a visit to the San Antonio Botanical Garden. Within the 38-acre space, you’ll also come across the Family Adventure Garden, perfect for exploring nature in a safe and unstructured environment.

    The Family Adventure Garden comes with the concept of multigenerational design, so everyone can put down their smartphones and tablets and play like we used to do. 

    It is like stepping into another world, as you’ll discover babbling brooks, towering hills, sharp ridges, and soft sandy shores.

  12. Urban Air Trampoline

    Located in Northwest San Antonio, the Urban Air Adventure Park is the perfect place to enjoy one of the best things to do in San Antonio with kids. This is the ultimate adventure playground indoors, with trampolines, climbing walls, and countless other soft play areas.

    If you’ve got a birthday party coming up, or you just want a family-filled fun day, visit Urban Air Trampoline, and discover why it’s so much more than an ordinary trampoline park.

  13. Six Flags Fiesta Texas

    Run an entertainment gauntlet with snake rides and Fright Fests. Six Flags Fiesta Texas is home to eight of the world’s best rollercoasters. Splash around in the summer at the Water Bay Park, or play some casual games like ladder climb, ring toss, or balloon pop.

    Six Flags Fiesta gets busy during the holidays, so make sure you purchase your tickets online, and you’ll be able to skip the line and walk right in.

  14. Graff 7A Ranch

    Take a short ride out of the city to the Graff 7A Ranch and get a taste of classic country living. This ranch is fifth-generation owned and is renowned for its annual fall corn maze event, running from the middle of September to the end of November. The seven-acre corn maze is one of the top mazes in the world when it comes to challenges. It’s an excellent opportunity to let the kids run wild.

    For the younger kiddies, there are a hayride, pig races, and a corn slide mountain to while away the hours on the farm. Graff 7A Ranch is one of the most enjoyable things to do with kids in San Antonio for a reason.

  15. San Antonio Spurs

    Dallas might have the Cowboys, and Houston may have the Texans, but San Antonio has the Spurs. In recent years, the Spurs have been the most successful sports teams in Texas.

    The five-time NBA champions always have space available for families to enjoy an NBA basketball game. Check their schedule to see when they’re playing, and surprise your kids with a visit to the game.

    Try to book ahead as the biggest games of the year always have a long waiting list.

  16. San Antonio River Walk

    Check out some of the city’s most accessible San Antonio activities for families. The River Walk doesn’t need to take up a whole day like some other activities on this list. Go for a stroll, and you’ll pass festivals, museums, parades, and stores.

    When the walking gets too much for the kiddies, hop on a riverboat and take in San Antonio from the water.

    Events regularly occur throughout the year, so it’s worth checking the city’s schedule to see what’s going on. It’s a place of culture, nature, and fun all rolled into one.

    If you’re in the city for a few days, you could even take on different sections on varying days.

  17. The Alamo

    Did you know that Texas’s biggest historical site is located close to San Antonio? Get a slice of one of the most momentous events in the formation of the country we know and love today by taking the whole family to the Alamo.

    Your kids will learn about the Alamo with dressed-up characters roleplaying famous figures from the day. They’ll learn about the guns of the time and the heroic last stand against the advancing Mexican military.

    Make sure you plan your trip to the Alamo carefully. The spring season is the busiest time for a visit, with massively long lines in front of the church and crowded grounds. Try any other time of year, and you’ll have a much quieter experience.

    Don’t worry, there are plenty of amenities on-site to keep the kids busy.

  18. iFly San Antonio

    Take to the skies with a visit to iFly San Antonio. The kids may be too young to go skydiving, but they can feel what it’s like in a safe and controlled environment. This is an activity that’s sure to be part of any young person’s bucket list.

    Step into the wind tunnel and take off for one hour and fifteen minutes. An instructor will guide your kids every step of the way, and they’ll get two rides. Just make sure you’re comfortable with signing a waiver before letting the kids gear up.

  19. Rio San Antonio Cruises

    One of San Antonio’s newest attractions is brought to you by GO RIO. The company offers a fresh and enthralling way of exploring the city’s history with rides on colorful barges. These barges run up and down the river and include expert guides from the local area sharing their knowledge of the city.

    GO RIO runs tours regularly, but you can also book shuttle services, chartered tours, and private cruises. There are five brightly colored barges running on eco-friendly electric engines, so they’re practically silent as they move through the water.

  20. Kiddie Park

    It may not have the cutting-edge technology of some of the other attractions on the list, but it’s always worth visiting the Kiddie Park. It happens to be one of the city’s most treasured sites. It has been open since 1925 and was restored in 2009.

    Step back in time with the rides of old. There’s a Ferris wheel that is brought up to modern safety standards but still embraces the classic look. You’ll spot some of the most iconic rides for kids, including the Whip Ride, Flying Saucer, and a carousel crafted by hand.

    There’s more to the Kiddie Park than rides. There’s always something fun at the weekends, with classic carnival games, face painting, and arcade options.

    You can even book private events for social events and birthday parties if you notify them in advance.

Fun for the Whole Family 

Searching for things to do in San Antonio with kids doesn’t have to be a challenge. Whether you want to be outdoors, indoors, active or not, spend an epic weekend in one of Texas’s leading cities with a long list of San Antonio activities

Spin Art Nation specializes in providing sessions for kids and families to unleash their creative sides and get a little messy with the magic of color.

If you’re ready to jump into the most fun art class in town, plan your event with Spin Art Nation now.

8 Fun-Filled Carnival Birthday Party Games

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8 Fun-Filled Carnival Birthday Party Games

Carnivals are exciting, family-friendly events that combine the adventure of an amusement park with the wonder of a circus act. From the dizzying delight of spinning teacup rides, to intensely focused games of Bust-a-Balloon, and the soft, ultra-sweet clouds of cotton candy — there’s something for everyone at a carnival.

It’s these positive memories and experiences that make carnival-themed birthdays so popular. Children love the food, games, and activities a carnival celebration entails. And let’s be honest, parents love them too!

But if you’re going to plan this particular type of celebration for your little one, you’re going to need a list of carnival birthday party games to keep them (and all their friends) entertained. 

Keep scrolling for our list of awesome carnival party games your child will love.

8 Unique Carnival Birthday Party Games

1. Spin Art

Spinning, paint, bright colors, fun — does it get more carnival than that? Spin art is a fun and engaging activity for any birthday party. It’s a chance to get a little messy and enjoy a whole lot of laughter! All you need to do is show up, suit up, and get those creative juices flowing. Plus, your little one will walk away with their own personal masterpiece — a keepsake they’ll treasure for years to come.

2. Bucket Ball

This score-based throwing game is easy to set up and a blast to play. All you need are a few buckets, a small, soft ball, and a permanent marker. How’s that for easy DIY carnival birthday party ideas? Be warned, though — this game gets super competitive in a hurry! 

To play, set up four buckets in a vertical line. Write 5 on the first bucket in permanent marker, then 10 on the second, 15 on the third, and 25 on the fourth. Have kids line up and take turns throwing the ball into the buckets. Each child gets three tries. The highest score wins!

3. Plinko

There are few birthday party carnival games ideas more quintessential than plinko. It’s a simple game that first debuted on the popular television show The Price is Right in 1983. Essentially, several nails are hammered into a large rectangular board, which is then hung or placed standing up. The player gets a chip and gets one try to drop it down into the board, watching as the chip bounces between the nails. At the bottom, there are several slots — each of which is labeled with a prize. Whichever slot the chip lands in, is the prize the player wins.

4. Ring Toss

There are some carnival themed games you simply must include in your celebration — and ring toss is one of them. Every carnival has some variation of this game. Typically, it involves standing nine or more tall bottles (empty wine bottles work great for this) in close proximity to one another. The bottles in the middle provide the highest points, while those on the perimeter are lower. You give each child three rings to throw and the child who scores the highest wins a prize.

5. Lucky Duck

Anyone looking for cheap and entertaining carnival theme party games is sure to love this suggestion. It requires approximately 50 rubber ducks and some colored markers — that’s it! You’ll want to use the same color marker to place a dot on the bottom of two ducks, repeating the process until all of the ducks have been color-matched in pairs of two. Then place the ducks on a table so the dots can not be seen. Each player gets to flip over two ducks. If they choose two ducks with matching dots, they get a prize. If not, the ducks are turned over again and the next person gets to try.

6. Guess How Many

A tried-and-true classic for every carnival games birthday party. Place a large quantity of tiny items in a jar (bubble gum, marbles, jelly beans — whatever you’ve got!) and have players guess how many there are. Record guesses on a piece of paper. When everyone has had a turn, the person closest to the exact number (without going over) wins a prize.

7. Mini Basketball

In need of competitive carnival birthday games that won’t take up too much space? This is a fantastic choice! Tape a few red solo cups to a large, rectangular board. Assign each cup a point value. Give each player three ping pong balls and watch as they take their shots, trying to get the ball into the cups. The player with the highest score wins.

8. What’s in the Box?

There are certain carnival games for party celebrations that are sure to have guests giggling and lining up to play again. This is one of those games. You’ll need a large cardboard box. Cut a hole on each end of the box that’s big enough to put a hand through. Then remove the flaps at the opening of the box, so the top is completely uncovered. Place the box on its side so the top is facing forward. Have players stand behind the box, so they can’t see the opening or the inside of the box, with their eyes closed. Place an object inside the box. Other children can stand at the front so they can see what’s inside, but make sure they don’t give it away! The player then uses the arms holes on each side of the box to feel around inside and handle the object. Then they guess what it is based on touch alone!

Get Creative with Spin Art

As you can see, there are plenty of carnival games for birthday parties that are easy to set up and enjoy. It’s all about choosing the games you think your guests will enjoy most. And remember — if you book your birthday party with Spin Art Nation, you can still play carnival party games in our studio rental space. Ask us about planning your birthday party in San Antonio today.

How to Plan the Perfect Date Night in San Antonio

How to Plan the Perfect Date Night in San Antonio

San Antonio is known for its romance. We’re here to help you discover all the possibilities for a date night in San Antonio. This city offers all anyone needs to create a wonderful romantic weekend, from its glittering river to opulent spas and lavish restaurants.

When it comes to showing that special someone around the city, there’s always something unique to do in San Antonio for every imaginable type of date.

Your couple’s activity in San Antonio can be as energetic, relaced, quirky, or traditional. If you need some help coming up with date night plans, we have a whole list of fun things to do in San Antonio for couples!

14 Ideas for Date Night in San Antonio

The Alamo City has plenty of places to take a date if you’re searching for something a little different. The River Walk, the Pearl, and lovely districts with tree-lined streets wait to be experienced on your date night San Antonio adventure. This list of 15 fun date ideas San Antonio has available includes:

  1. Have a Messy, Fun Time at a Spin Art Class

    This unique painting experience in San Antonio is a great way to enjoy a night out with your significant other while you put your skills to the test. Spin Art Nation San Antonio offers a variety of options for generating stunning works of art. The environment encourages people of all ages to get in touch with their creative side while providing them an excellent opportunity to socialize.

    The newest fad in “spin art” is now available to everyone at this paint shop with a twist (and a spin.) For your convenience, a member of their faculty will provide guidance so you can artfully master this fun activity. 

    With the accommodating staff, you don’t need prior art skills to participate in this event. Each artist will be equipped with paint, canvas, and safety gear. The only thing you need to do is show up with your date and be imaginative.

  2. Enjoy the River Walk in San Antonio

    For those who have been to San Antonio, it should be no surprise that the Paseo del Rio (River Walk) is a top Texas tourist attraction and one of the top date ideas San Antonio has to offer. 

    The best way to get a feel for San Antonio is to stroll along the River Walk with your significant other. Eat at some of the best restaurants in Texas and shop at charming boutiques and stores. If you plan a romantic trip to San Antonio, don’t miss the River Walk.

  3. Stroll Around Historic Market Square

    Market Square in San Antonio is a great place to spend a day if you’re searching for something fun to do with your significant other. Couples can spend the entire day admiring and browsing at over a hundred locally-owned shops full of authentic handcrafted pottery and paintings. Take a stroll through the Farmer’s Market Food Court for a leisurely meal. It’s the perfect place to have a romantic dinner with your loved one, and La Margarita Restaurant & Oyster Bar is the place to go for the perfect margarita.

  4. Enjoy Date Night at the DoSeum

    As adults, we frequently need a break from being surrounded by kids. So you might think that a “Doseum” may seem like an odd choice for a San Antonio date night.
    However, think again! The Doseum isn’t just for kids. The new museum in San Antonio is an excellent place for adults to have fun and learn about the world.

    Plus, adult beverages can be consumed while seeing the exhibitions during the museum’s “ReDo Recess” nights. They have a full schedule of upcoming events, so be sure to check it out! We can guarantee that it will be a lot of fun, and you’ll get to sample delicious food from various local eateries.

  5. Pop the Question at Marriage Island

    Do you want to have the most memorable date night San Antonio can offer? Then take your date to the next level at Marriage Island. There’s no better place to ask someone to marry you than Marriage Island. Marriage Island, a small island amid the San Antonio River, has hosted several engagements and marriages. During a romantic vacation in San Antonio, this heart-shaped islet is the ideal location to pop the question. Marriage Island is said to bring good fortune to couples who tie the knot there. Whether or not the rumors are accurate, this romantic setting on the river is great for popping the question.

  6. Shop for Dinner at the Pearl District of San Antonio

    The Pearl Brewery District, commonly known as the Historic Pearl, was one of the major breweries in Texas from 1883 to 2001, making one of the state’s most famous beers, Pearl Beer. Many historic buildings have been preserved in a bustling micro-district repurposed from the brewery grounds. 

    The bottling facility has been converted into a food hall, and the old machinery has been incorporated into public areas. Rainwater harvesters and herb gardens have been installed in an old brewery and ammonia tanks. The Pearl has quickly become one of the city’s most sought-after destinations.

    The Pearl Farmers Market, open on weekends, is a great place to show your culinary prowess to your date. When it comes to making your date feel special, nothing beats cooking for them. Plus, you never know, detailing the myriad ways in which chard and kale differ from one another might be the secret to their hearts.

    Additionally, Wednesday nights in the summer, Sunset Sessions hosts a dance party in front of the Food Hall.

  7. Browse the McNay Art Museum

    An art museum is an excellent place for a day date. The McNay Art Museum, housed in a Spanish colonial renaissance mansion on 23 acres, will appeal to the couple’s creative side. Over 20,000 works of art from the Renaissance and Medieval eras to contemporary art from New Mexico are available for couples to peruse at their leisure. 

    A romantic picnic for two in the sculpture garden would be a lovely addition to this date day.

  8. Take Your Dance Partner to Gruene Hall

    Are you looking up San Antonio date ideas because you’re tired of the traditional dinner and a movie routine? Then switch it to a dance routine! Gruene Hall is the place to go if you’re looking for a nice old-fashioned Texas date. A renowned concert and country dancing venue that you can find just up the road in New Braunfels, Texas, Gruene Hall is the oldest dance hall in Texas. So for your San Antonio date night, grab your partner and two-step around the dance floor!

  9. Watch a show at the Majestic Theater

    Looking up romantic and unique date night ideas? San Antonio has just the venue for you. 

    Buy a pair of tickets to a performance at the most prestigious theater in Central Texas and use them to demonstrate your cultural sophistication to your date. The Majestic Theater in San Antonio, Texas, has long been regarded as one of the country’s most opulent venues for the performing arts. The Majestic, planned and erected in 1929 by John Eberson for Karl Hoblitzelle’s Interstate Theatres, was Texas’ largest and the country’s second-largest motion picture theater for many years. It was designed to be the most up-to-date and ornate structure in South Texas, complete with brand-new audio and video technology and the state’s first fully air-conditioned theater.

    This historic theater now hosts Broadway productions, music concerts, stand-up comedians, and other live performances worldwide. Be sure to get to the Majestic Theater at least half an hour before your show starts so you have time to get some refreshments for you and your date.

  10. Visit the Ocho Lounge

    The Ocho Lounge at the Hotel Havana is an ideal spot for fun dates in San Antonio, thanks to its old-world elegance and sumptuous, lush ambiance. The similarly exquisite menu and offerings are offset with velvety and deep textures, jewel tones, and vibrant accents. This restaurant is situated in the heart of San Antonio’s Riverwalk and features a glass conservatory overlooking the water. Take your date for a scenic walk and stop for some tapas and libations at this lux lounge.

  11. Grab Some Drinks High in the Sky

    Take your date for a sky-high experience in the Towers of the Americas.

    The tower, which stands at the height of 750 feet, was constructed for the HemisFair ’68 World Fair in 1968. Even today, it remains San Antonio’s tallest structure. Multiple guest-friendly features have been added to the property and the tower, including a restaurant, bar, observation deck, 4D movie theater, gift shops, and lovely gardens.

    Taking the elevator from the ground level to the observation deck takes about 1 minute and 15 seconds. The history of the area is depicted through a series of interactive exhibits. Signs on the observation deck point out various locations. Tourists can use a map to locate the Alamo and the Alamodome.

    In a matter of minutes, you’ll be able to see the entirety of the city. At night, it comes alive, so take your date’s hand and let the world revolve around the two of you!

    Keep in mind, that you’ll need to make a reservation in advance if you want to dine there.

  12. Have Mimosas in the Botanical Garden of San Antonio

    The San Antonio Botanical Garden is a must-see for anyone who appreciates the beauty of nature. Walking through the beautiful gardens, enjoying the wonderful flowers, and having a romantic picnic are all options open to couples.

    Visiting a botanical garden is a fantastic way to see a wide variety of plants up close and personal that might otherwise be difficult to see in a more open setting. There are botanical gardens whose sole raison d’être is the amassing and preserving extensive collections of locally endemic species. Others concentrate their knowledge on certain types of plants, such as those used for medical purposes, tropical plants, endangered species, or plants with significant historical backgrounds.

    This 38-acre oasis in the heart of San Antonio is a hidden gem. The Lucile Halsell Conservatory’s cutting-edge design and Japanese garden will take your breath away. Stop by Anne Marie’s Carriage House Bistro for a meal after taking in the sights. Taking a break from the daily grind will help you re-establish your sense of self and de-stress while enjoying the day with your date.

  13. First Friday or Second Saturday is for Art

    When it comes to local art, flavors, and shopping, all indicators lead south—Southtown Arts District, that is. It is just a few blocks away from the bustle of downtown.

    Southtown is home to a diverse community of artists, locally-owned taverns, coffee shops, boutiques, museums, art galleries, and a plethora of independent businesses. In addition, it encompasses King William’s Victorian-style district, which is rich in history and allure.

    Micro distilleries, parks, river exploration along the San Antonio River, public art, and other mixed-use spaces make this an ideal urban exploration destination.

    Southtown is at its finest on First Friday or Second Saturday, when galleries and artists throw up their doors to the public to promote the area’s burgeoning art scene, hip eateries and bars, and unique ambiance. Explore a large area and partake in San Antonio activities such as film screenings, live performances, music, and food.

  14. Identify the Scranton Strangler!

    The Office is coming to the Tobin Center for the Arts! A Parody of the Classic Murder Mystery: Is the Scranton Strangler out there?

    As guests, you can help Michael investigate the murder in Scranton. Up to 35 people can join Michael’s Murder Mystery Tour, a funny true crime walking tour that takes them through five walkable locales and introduces them to some of their favorite characters like Jim, Pam, and Dwight.

    Guests will use their sharp sleuthing abilities to search for clues, track down red herrings, plant evidence, and attempt to catch the Scranton Strangler.

    The Tobin Center serves as the starting point for this event. However, participants will only have to go a short distance between clues. The Scranton Strangler is an encounter that pulls you into its world.

Enjoy Date Night San Antonio

Date ideas in San Antonio are endless. There are plenty of experiences to enjoy as a couple in this south central Texas town. The only question is: which activity will you do first? (Hint: we recommend a Spin Art class!) 

11 First Birthday Party Games For Little Guests

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11 First Birthday Party Games For Little Guests

You’ve made it through months of no sleep and changed thousands of diapers (and counting!). Now it’s time to party! But first, you’ll need to do a little planning. After all, a first birthday party is a milestone event you’ll want to make special.

Having a party for your baby’s first birthday isn’t just a fete for them—it’s to celebrate one whole year of new parenthood. So, invite your friends and your baby’s playdate pals, and let the sippy cups flow!

Food, games, music, and decorations are all part of a successful celebration. Today’s article will focus on the perfect activities for a first birthday party. Having games and entertainment for your smallest partygoers will ensure that everyone—including the parents—has a good time. Luckily, there are plenty of 1st birthday party games to keep both parents and kiddos happy.

Tips for Hosting a Birthday Party for a Baby

Before we take a closer look at games for 1st birthdays, here are some quick tips for hosting the celebration.

Top 11 Party Games For 1 Year Olds

Parents know that you can entertain a baby with something as simple as a cardboard box, but for a birthday fiesta, let’s have some real fun! Check out our list of 1st birthday party entertainment ideas that will take your baby’s celebration to the next level.

First Birthday Party Games: Outdoor Activities

If you can utilize the outdoors for your baby’s shindig, all the better! Keeping your party mostly outdoors is ideal to control the cute chaos of a toddler’s birthday party.

1. Get Artsy With Spin Art

Add an art project like spin art to your party, and you’ve got an activity and a party favor all in one! Guests of all ages will love making spin art with baby-safe paints. It’s just the right amount of crafty and messy, and it’s definitely fun! (P.S. Once you try it at home, experience what a spin art session is like at Spin Art Nation.)

2. Crank Up The Bubbles

Get a bubble machine, make sure its batteries are charged, and let it work its magic. Babies love bubbles, so if you’re searching for fun first birthday games that will entertain them for much longer than you think, this is it! It’s a clean activity that any parent can appreciate.

3. Get Sensory With A Water Table

On warm days, a water table can be used to create games for a 1st birthday party. Babies love playing in the water, and using utensils, cups, and strainers in the water is a million times more fun! Throw in some friends and cake, and you’ve got a party.

4. Ring Toss

Add some super simple entertainment to the first birthday party games for girls with a fun game that anyone can play! Print out some pictures of favorite characters (e.g., Minnie Mouse or Paw Patrol), and paste them on the rings. Give each guest a ring and have them toss it on the picture. You can give guests the opportunity to get three tries, or you can let them play until they get it right.

First Birthday Party Games: Indoor Activities

You don’t need to have a lot of space in order to have a fun first birthday party indoors. Here are some first birthday game ideas that you can do inside.

5. Balloon Fest

This activity couldn’t be easier, but it has a huge impact! Blow up a lot of balloons using a pump, so you don’t make yourself dizzy. Get balloons in a variety of sizes and colors. Blow them up, and just let them bounce around your home during the party. What starts out as party decor will end up being one of the most entertaining activities of the day!

6. Ball Pit

Fill an inflatable pool or kiddie corral with lightweight plastic balls for a first birthday party game that will blow their minds. You can even add a little slide and watch the little ones have the time of their lives. If you’re worried about the balls going everywhere–that’s part of the fun!

7. Say Cheese With A Photo Booth

Make a cut-out for guests to pose with, or have fun props to use in photos! Either use an Instax camera or have a way to print or email the photos soon after the party. Party guests can get their photo taken with the birthday boy or girl and have a fun memento from the party. It’s also a good way to collect images to use for holiday gifts for friends and family.

8. DIY Obstacle Course for Babies

A DIY obstacle course for babies is so much fun! Just find some items in your house that can be used as obstacles (think throw pillows and playmats, Whatever you choose, have fun creating your own unique design. Babies who are just learning to crawl, or even those who are literally taking baby steps, will have fun with this activity.

Keeping Toddlers Busy And Entertained With Toys

These 1st birthday games will allow children to explore and learn while they have a great time!

9. Set Out Plenty of Walkers

If you’ve got a dance floor full of crawlers and cruisers, provide them with fun walkers and pushers during the party. Babies who are exploring their mobility will love this first birthday party game.

10. Let The Music Play

Set out a variety of kid-friendly musical instruments–xylophone, drums, and maracas, and let them make music! As far as games for first birthdays go, this one is definitely not the quietest—but it sure is fun. Just be sure to put a time limit on the activity and be prepared to transition to something else a little quieter.

11. Bring The Playground

Create a fun and safe play area with tunnels, slides, and play mats. Parents will be able to relax at the party, knowing that their babies are safe and having fun at the same time. Providing appropriate play equipment is a great way to entertain your guests.

First Birthday Fun for Everyone

The first birthday is a significant milestone, and it’s worth celebrating! With this list, you should find the inspiration to have a fun, festive party. Pick the activities you think your baby will enjoy the most, send your invites, and get ready for a memorable first birthday party. 

And don’t forget the cake!