Sunken Gardens, San Antonio: A Beautiful Japanese Tea Garden
If you’re ever in San Antonio and looking for a peaceful spot that feels like a secret escape, let me introduce you to one of my favorite places in the city: the Sunken Gardens San Antonio.
I’ve lived here for years, and this place still surprises me. Tucked inside Brackenridge Park, the Sunken Gardens, also known as the Japanese Tea Garden, is a dreamy little hideaway you probably wouldn’t stumble upon unless someone told you about it. Consider this your tip-off.
It’s free, it’s beautiful, and it’s just minutes from downtown. What more could you ask for?
With my insider tips and personal experiences, you’ll soon see why this beautiful and peaceful destination is an absolute must-see for anyone seeking an unforgettable yet affordable experience in San Antonio.
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A Morning Worth Slowing Down For
One Saturday morning, I grabbed my iced coffee and decided to beat the heat by getting an early start. The Sunken Gardens open around sunrise.
As you walk in, the first thing you’ll notice is the stone archway. It’s like stepping into another world. The path winds down into the garden, and every step takes you deeper into calm.
You’ll hear the soft sound of water trickling through koi ponds.
There are little waterfalls, shaded benches, and flowers blooming all around. It’s the kind of place where you find yourself taking deeper breaths without even trying.
If you’re into photography, you’ll love all the angles and textures here, from stone bridges to lily pads to bright bursts of bougainvillea.
Who Owns Sunken Gardens?
The land for Sunken Gardens initially belonged to the widow of The Pearl Brewery owner, who donated it to the city of San Antonio in 1915.
In 2008, after an extensive year-long million-dollar renovation project, the improved Sunken Gardens re-opened, revealing the majestic park you can visit today.
Eleven acres of serene waterfalls, rock bridges, staircase walkways, tranquil koi ponds, and a rock pagoda enchant visitors.
The scenery greets you as you walk up the path to the pagoda. Pictures cannot do the gardens justice.
The 60-foot waterfall’s relaxing sound exudes a calming feeling. The peaceful space invites you to sit and reflect while enjoying the serene atmosphere.
The Japanese Tea Gardens are one of many attractions the Brackenridge Park Conservancy operates.
The Sunken Gardens descend and are “sunk” into what was once an old rock quarry, with the layers of rock adding to the earthy elements.
The Japanese Tea Garden is registered as a Texas Historic Landmark and the U.S. National Register of Historic Places now recognizes these breathtaking gardens as well.
Along with organic features, the San Antonio Sunken Gardens has a .3-mile loop paved trail accessible to everyone, including those who might need a wheelchair.
Even your dog is allowed, as long as it is on a leash.
The Sunken Gardens Restaurant
If you’re like me and get hungry just from walking around pretty places, you’ll be happy to know there’s a restaurant right on site.
The Jingu House Café has tea, light bites, and shaded outdoor seating.
You don’t need a reservation, but it does get busy on weekends, so keep that in mind.
You’ll find boba tea, sake, cappuccinos, slushies, ice cream, and beer.
You can also grab a scrumptious bento box to take with you on your travels through the gardens.
The covered outdoor patio is a relaxing place to enjoy your snack and drink while taking in the beautiful scenery of the gardens.
Where is Sunken Gardens?
The Sunken Gardens are located in Brackenridge Park, just north of downtown San Antonio.
The official address is 3853 N St Mary’s St, San Antonio, TX 78212.
It’s in the same area as some of the city’s top attractions, but still feels like a quiet escape from the bustle of town.
San Antonians commonly refer to the park as The Sunken Gardens, which includes the outdoor theater in the same vicinity.
The venue hosts popular concerts and San Antonio Fiesta events, like Taste of New Orleans.
RELATED POST: If you are staying in downtown San Antonio, my post, The Best Restaurant on the Riverwalk in San Antonio, offers excellent dining suggestions.
How to Get to the Sunken Gardens
If you’re driving, it’s an easy ride to get to the Sunken Gardens from just about anywhere in San Antonio.
From downtown, you can head north on Broadway or US-281 and be there in less than 10 minutes. If you’re using a rideshare app or GPS, just plug in “Japanese Tea Garden San Antonio” or the address above.
There’s also a VIA Metropolitan Transit bus stop nearby if you’re taking public transportation. You can get off at Brackenridge Park and walk a short distance to the entrance.
For a unique way to visit, consider using a BCycle, a new and exciting way to explore San Antonio.
B-Cycles are electric bikes that you rent, ride, and return. They are convenient because you ride them to where you want to go and then drop them off at a charging site.
When you are ready to return, hop on a new bike.
Using the company’s app makes renting a snap. The rates are reasonable too.
Visitors staying in the downtown area can rent a bike and ride along a dedicated bike path that safely leads to Brackenridge Park.
Sunken Gardens Parking
Good news: parking at Sunken Gardens is free! There’s a decent-sized lot right outside the entrance to the gardens.
On weekends or nice weather days, it can fill up quickly, but I usually find a spot without much trouble if I go early.
There’s also overflow parking along the roads in Brackenridge Park if needed.
Look for more free parking near the San Antonio Zoo, including the covered parking garage.
RELATED POST: If you visit San Antonio during the holidays, check out the post, Make Plans Now to See These San Antonio Christmas Lights, for a guide to the best holiday decorations throughout the city, including San Antonio Zoo Lights.
Sunken Gardens Hours and Admission
My favorite part about visiting the San Antonio Sunken Gardens is that admission is totally free. Just walk right in and enjoy!
The Sunken Gardens are open daily from dawn to dusk and are open seven days a week, 365 days a year.
I recommend going in the morning when the temperature is cooler and the light is softer for photos. It’s also quieter earlier in the day, so you’ll feel like you have the place almost to yourself.
Shaded areas are available, but it is still warm.
San Antonio Attractions Nearby
One of the best things about the Sunken Gardens is how close they are to other fun things to do. If you’re planning a full day in the city of San Antonio, you’re in luck.
Just steps away, you’ll find the San Antonio Zoo, which is a fantastic zoo to visit with or without kids.
The Witte Museum, one of my favorite museums, is also nearby and has all kinds of exhibits about Texas nature, science, and history.
There’s also the San Antonio Botanical Garden a short drive away, and if you’re feeling adventurous, Brackenridge Park has over 343 acres and trails that are perfect for walking or biking.
If you want to stretch your legs a little more, the San Antonio River Walk’s Museum Reach section is nearby and makes for a scenic stroll or boat ride.
Do you have a zoo pass from your home city? The San Antonio Zoo participates in a reciprocity program, giving you discounted admission when you show a pass from another participating zoo.
I used it in Calgary when I went to Banff National Park, and it is a money saver.
For more fun near the Sunken Gardens, ride on The C.W.T Express. For less than $5, The San Antonio Zoo train whisks visitors through a two-mile-long journey through the park.
Hop on or off the train at the Sunken Garden entrance. This could be useful if you park in the zoo lots.
In Conclusion
In conclusion, if you’re in San Antonio, make time for a morning at the Sunken Gardens.
Exploring this San Antonio hidden gem provides a serene retreat, perfect for those seeking somewhere peaceful, pretty, and—let’s be honest—free.
Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a photography buff, or simply looking for a peaceful stroll, the Sunken Gardens promises a delightful experience.
After wandering through this botanical spot, don’t miss the opportunity to indulge in San Antonio’s culinary scene. Check out my post on the best restaurants in San Antonio for mouthwatering dining options along the San Antonio Riverwalk.
And if you’re planning a full day in the city, my guide on spending two days in San Antonio offers a comprehensive itinerary to make the most of your visit.
