San Antonio's Immersive Art Experience Is A Top-Rated Attraction With Mind-Bending Installations

If you're heading to San Antonio, you're probably already familiar with the famous (yet disappointing) Texas landmark, the Alamo Mission, but just a couple of minutes away is another one of the city's top-rated — and most unique — attractions. Playing in a giant ball pit, soaking in light in the Color Therapy room, and exploring optical illusions are just some of the experiences awaiting you at Hopscotch, San Antonio's immersive 20,000-square-foot art gallery.

Hopscotch opened its space next to Travis Park back in 2020, after first launching as a pop-up in Austin. Since then, some would consider it one of the best attractions in Texas, amassing a 4.7 rating on Google, with over 6,000 reviews at the time of this writing. "Each installation felt like stepping into a new, distinct world—something completely different from the last," says one reviewer. "From light installations and optical illusions to hands-on kinetic exhibits, the variety was incredible ... It truly is a playground for the senses." If you can't make it to the Lone Star State, Hopscotch even opened a second location in Portland, which also has a "living museum of trees."

The gallery space highlights the work of dozens of artists hailing from Texas and around the world. The 14 installations aim to be interactive, thought-provoking, or even mind-bending. For example, in the introspective "Secrets" room, you can call a number to leave a message, and then listen to the deep secrets recorded by past guests. Visitors can also enjoy the Quantum Trampoline, where shapes and lights reflect your every jump. There's also a trippy, illuminated maze that, with visual distortion created by many neon lights and shapes, makes paths thrillingly confusing to navigate. 

You'll also find a full bar menu that's just as colorful and eclectic as the gallery space — options include the Adult Capri-Sun, a fruity concoction which can be served with or without alcohol; the gin-based Northern Lights, with popping boba; and the non-alcoholic Celestial Unicorn, made from butterfly pea syrup and "electric dust." Unlike most traditional museums, you can even enjoy your drink as you explore Hopscotch's numerous exhibits. Out on its patio, you'll also find a food truck, and sometimes, live music. Plus, there's a wall in the space dedicated to rotating works by local artists available for purchase. 

Hopscotch is open Thursdays through Mondays. At the time of this writing, tickets are $24 for adults and $15 for children between the ages of 4 and 15. Timed tickets can be purchased online in advance. If you're looking for a place to stay during your San Antonio trip, check out these River Walk hotels that guests rave about.