Leave Donna around 5:30–6:00 a.m. and take US-281 north toward I-37 into San Antonio; allow about 4½–5 hours behind the wheel, plus a buffer for traffic, fuel, and a quick stretch stop. Head first to the Pearl District and use the Pearl’s public parking garages or lots; expect to pay for parking and allow extra time to find a space on a market morning.
Start at the Pearl Farmers Market, typically a Saturday-morning event, often running roughly 9 a.m.–1 p.m.; confirm the October schedule and hours before setting out. Give yourself about 1½ hours to browse local produce, food stalls, and makers. Then explore The Pearl’s restored brewery buildings and courtyards, and have lunch nearby—budget around $15–30 per person, depending on your choice. The market and many outdoor areas are free to browse, though food and shopping are extra.
From The Pearl, follow the river-level path south toward downtown for a relaxed San Antonio River Walk stroll. The walk is roughly a mile and a half, but allow about 1½ hours if you plan to pause for photos or take a break along the way. Wear comfortable shoes, and keep some water handy, especially if the afternoon is warm.
Finish at the Tower of the Americas in Hemisfair, a short walk from the downtown River Walk area. Allow about 1–1½ hours for the observation deck and views; check current hours, admission prices, and any special-event notices before you go, as entry is paid and schedules can vary. If you’re driving between the River Walk and the tower instead, use a nearby paid garage rather than trying to find street parking.
Start at North Star Mall when its Sunday hours begin—often around noon, but check the mall’s current hours before you go. Give yourself about 1½ hours to browse and see the giant cowboy boots; parking is free. Then drive north to Trader Joe’s at Vineyard Shopping Center, roughly 20–30 minutes depending on traffic. Allow 30–45 minutes to shop, and confirm the store’s Sunday closing time before setting out.
From Trader Joe’s, head south to the San Antonio Zoo in Brackenridge Park (about 25–35 minutes). The zoo commonly closes in the late afternoon, so check its hours and buy admission ahead if you can; allow 2½–3 hours, though this sequence may leave you less time than that. Continue to Oxford Pumpkin Patch, but verify its exact location, dates, and Sunday hours directly before driving there—seasonal patches can move or have limited hours. If it’s open, plan about an hour to wander and check any activity or entry fees in advance.
This is a very full day, and Sunday opening times—especially the mall’s—could make the stops difficult to fit comfortably. To keep every planned stop, expect a late arrival home; if the zoo or pumpkin patch closes before you can get there, you’ll need to shorten an earlier visit or leave one stop for another day. From San Antonio, take I-37 south toward US-281 and continue toward Donna, allowing roughly 4½–5 hours without stops, plus time for fuel and a meal.
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