"What are we gonna do today?"

Locals and visitors to San Antonio, Texas that have kids cringe at the phrase, "What are we gonna do today?" Though it's easy to become frustrated, remember, they're only kids. Following are two ways that you can answer the question and find activities that you and the kids will enjoy.

San Antonio Zoo

Ranked among the best zoos in the United States, the San Antonio Zoo is home to more than 3,500 animals belonging to 600 species. Ideal for kids, the zoo can be found at the headwaters of the San Antonio River (map). The zoo is wonderfully landscaped and covers 35 acres. Although kids of all ages like zoo visits, the San Antonio zoo is especially friendly to visiting tots under 5. Kids in this age group will be tickled to visit Kronkosky's Tiny Tot Nature Spot, it is a mini-zoo that is especially designed for the enjoyment of small children. From March to November another great exhibit for kids is the Butterfly/Caterpillar School, this tropical setting has hundreds of butterflies flitting about. Another zoo attraction for everyone is the Fun Farm Petting Zoo, not only can visitors see a pygmy coat up-close but anyone can pet them too! If time allows, visit Lory Landing, an outdoor aviary filled with birds of many colors that are just beautiful. The birds can be fed and some are quite friendly and might just land on you for a brief rest. The zoo's Africa Live 2 exhibit has a huge aviary, okapi, wild hunting dogs and colobus monkeys; along with a termite mound that visitors can go through. The San Antonio Zoo is open every day, has a cafe and gift shop. A family must see!

Natural Bridge Caverns

The Natural Bridge Caverns is a geological cave system that is just 10 miles outside of San Antonio (map). It was discovered by four college students from St. Mary's University in San Antonio, in March of 1960.

Today, the Natural Bridge Caverns is one of the most visited spots in all Texas. There are all sorts of unique things to do at the site. However, if you have young kids you will likely choose the Discovery Tour or The Hidden Passages Tour. The discovery tour takes around one hour and ten minutes and covers a walking distance that cover ¾ of a mile. It is 180 feet belowground and absolutely spectacular. The Hidden Passages Tour takes the same amount of time, but it covers only 1/3 of a mile. So, the Hidden Passages Tour may be a better choice if you don't want a passenger on your shoulders.

For the truly adventurous and also fairly fit crowd, the Caverns have a guided tour that takes three hours, goes to a depth of 230 feet and requires walking, crawling and rappelling to complete. Gear is provided, and you will sights that are unimaginable.