Pearsall Park

Pearsall Park is one of San Antonio's crown jewel city parks — a sprawling green space on the south side of the city that draws families from all over the metro area. With over 5,500 Google reviews and a 4.7-star rating, it's not a hidden gem but an established local favorite, and for good reason.

The park's main draws for families include a large playground complex with equipment for multiple age groups, a seasonal splash pad that becomes an absolute magnet on hot San Antonio days, and several fishing ponds that keep older kids and parents engaged. Walking and jogging trails wind through the park's hundreds of acres, connecting different activity zones and offering a genuine escape from the urban environment.

The splash pad is the star attraction during spring and summer. On hot weekdays before crowds arrive, the spray features keep toddlers through elementary-age kids entertained for well over an hour. The surrounding picnic areas mean parents can set up base camp with a cooler and lunch while kids rotate between wet and dry activities.

All of this is completely free. Pearsall Park charges no admission, making it one of the most family-friendly value destinations in San Antonio. The trade-off is that the park gets genuinely crowded on summer weekends, particularly around the splash pad area. Weekday mornings are the sweet spot — you get the full park experience without competing for space.

Restrooms are available throughout the park, and covered pavilions provide shade for larger gatherings. The park is open from 6AM to 11PM daily, offering flexibility for both morning and evening visits. For families with kids of different ages, it's one of the rare parks that truly serves everyone from toddlers to teens.