Wikivoyage

city in Bexar, Comal, and Medina counties in Texas, United States, that is the county seat of Bexar County
North America > United States of America > Texas > South Texas Plains > San Antonio

For other places with the same name, see San Antonio (disambiguation).

San Antonio is the second largest city in the state of Texas and the 7th largest in the United States. It's the 24th largest metropolitan area in the country. Visited by more than 31 million annual visitors, San Antonio is a beautiful city at the axis of three different geological terrains: Hill Country, South Texas Plains and Prairie and Lakes. There's a lot to do in this city: fine art museums, historical missions and plenty of amusement parks in addition to great dining and lots of drinking. The culture and people are vibrant and interesting. San Antonio's downtown is one of the most lively in the nation.

Downtown San Antonio from the Tower of the Americas

Understand

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San Antonio is considered to be the cradle of Texan liberty. Its best-known landmark is the Alamo, the site of the famous battle (1836) where Davy Crockett and Jim Bowie were killed. When most visitors see the Alamo for the first time, their common reaction is "Hm, I thought it would be bigger."

No other city in Texas reflects the state's Spanish and Mexican heritage better than San Antonio. Hispanics make up a considerable fraction of the population and it shows in most places. The Hispanic atmosphere of San Antonio makes it a truly unique U.S. city. This becomes most evident during Fiesta week, a yearly celebration that attracts 3.5 million people to its over one hundred events including parades, music, festivals, fairs and food and drink in the charming downtown streets of the city. San Antonio also has a significant African-American population.

San Antonio, with a population of about 1.5 million (2020), and a metro population of nearly 2.5 million (2018), still enjoys a small-town feel despite the hustle and bustle. Its people are friendly, open and bicultural, and the concentration of population around its center makes it easy to get just about anywhere within a 30- to 40-minute drive.

Climate

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San Antonio
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See San Antonio's 7 day forecast    Data from NOAA (1981-2010)
Metric conversion
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During the summer it can get hot, and sometimes humid. Temperatures in the 90s and 100s °F (30s °C) are typical from May to September, though there are some days that stay cooler. April and October have also been known to get into the 90s and even 100s, and during the winter it typically is cool and rainy. Carry a light sweater; you never know when the weather may change in San Antonio.

Visitor information

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  • Visit San Antonio website
  • 1 San Antonio Visitor Information Center, 317 Alamo Plaza (across the street from Alamo), toll-free: +1 800-447-3372. The downtown Visitor Information Center and Official City Store is a wealth of information about San Antonio. Representatives there can assist you in getting a map of the city, help you get around, or anything else you may need in San Antonio. The San Antonio Convention & Visitor's Bureau has a savings website, the San Antonio Vacation Experience. (updated Jun 2021)

Get in

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By plane

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  • 1 San Antonio International Airport (SAT  IATA). Serves over 30 national and international destinations with non-stop service and many more with one-stop direct service. For destinations, check with individual airlines. Ground transportation from SAT to Downtown available by shuttle ($19 one way per person), by taxi ($25-35 one way, up to 4-6 persons depending on the size of the taxi), or by public bus (Number 5) which stops just outside Terminal B (brings you downtown in about half an hour for $1.30 exact change and runs approximately every 30 minutes).

By train

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San Antonio is served by two Amtrak long-distance trains. The Texas Eagle provides a direct connection with Chicago while the Sunset Limited calls in San Antonio on its way between Los Angeles and New Orleans.

By car

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Most visitors to San Antonio arrive by either I-35, I-10, I-37 or US 281. I-10 comes from El Paso to the west and Houston to the east. I-35 comes from Austin to the north and Laredo to the south. Driving times are about 1 hour from Austin, 4 hours 15 minutes from Dallas/Fort Worth and less than 3 hours from Houston.

By bus

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  • 3 Greyhound, 500 N St Marys St, Downtown (Across the street from Bill Miller's Parking Lot). (updated Jun 2021)
  • Megabus. Service from Dallas, Austin, and Houston. The bus stop is in the parking lot on the south corner of 4th St and Broadway St.
  • Autobus Americanos. Mexican trans-border bus line with services from various points in Mexico. Bus stop is at 301 Broadway in San Antonio.
  • Turimex Internacional[dead link]. Mexican trans-border bus line with services from various points in Mexico. Bus stop is at 518 N, Alamo in San Antonio.
  • Omnibus Mexicanos. Mexican trans-border bus line with services from various points in Mexico. Bus stop is at 930 Broadway in San Antonio.

By boat

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San Antonio is in the middle of Texas. Therefore, it is not accessible by boat, although there are many tubing opportunities around San Antonio, thanks to the huge abundance of rivers in the area.

Get around

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Public transit

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San Antonio's bus system, the VIA Metropolitan Transit, runs the downtown trolley service (actually a bus) for a small fare. Bus fares range from about $1.10 to $2.50 depending on the service with a one-day $2.75 pass (for purchase at some retail outlets see VIA's Website under Fare information) for all routes.

There are 4 types of routes: Express, Skip, Frequent, and Metro. The Express routes usually run from the sub-urban areas (mostly Park and Rides) to downtown. Most of them run about once every 30 minutes. Skip service usually runs along the streets with high traffic. They usually do not stop at bus stops that are served by the frequent routes. Skip routes also usually run about every 30 minutes. Frequent routes can also be found on high traffic roads and as the name implies, the stops are very frequent. Although Frequent routes come by about once every 15 minutes, it is usually faster to wait a little longer and take the Skip routes if you are going a long distance, for example on San Pedro ave, it is usually quicker to wait for the #3 (Skip) as opposed to the #4 (Frequent) if you wanted to get from downtown to North Star Mall. Metro service is usually found in neighborhoods around the city, frequency varies with each route, but they usually run about once an hour.

Discount fares are available to children between the ages of 5 and 11, senior citizens 62 and older, Medicare recipients, persons with disabilities and students. A reduced fee ID is required for reduced fares and can be acquired from VIA Information Centers (students may get the necessary forms from their campus administration). Bus schedules and route information can be found at VIA's website, by calling the VIA information line +1 210-362-2020 or for the hearing impaired at +1 210-362-2019, or at the San Antonio Visitor Information Center.

Taxi

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Cabs are available to be hailed downtown, at the airport, or at military bases. In other areas you should reserve a cab in advance.

The Alamo
  • 1 The Alamo, 300 Alamo Plaza (park at any of the pay lots in the area), ☏ +1 210 225-1391. Daily 9AM-5:30PM, closed Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Considered to be hallowed ground and the Shrine of Texas Liberty, the Alamo is a former mission which was also the site of the Battle of the Alamo (1836). Admission is free, although donations are appreciated. Revenues from an adjacent gift shop fund the historic preservation efforts. The Alamo site consists of not only the former mission itself but quite a lot of monuments, informational placards and outbuildings. Excavations and expansion of exhibition space is continuing as of 2023, to include another future museum, but as of January 2023, there is already more than enough to see and learn on-site that you could spend an entire day there if you so chose. Alamo Mission in San Antonio (Q2636724) on Wikidata Alamo Mission in San Antonio on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 2 Aztec on the River (aka Aztec Theatre), 104 N St Mary's St (on the River Walk, at the corner of E. Commerce and N. St. Mary's Streets), ☏ +1 210 812-4355, . The Aztec on the River was touted as the Riverwalk's most exciting entertainment attraction. This historic 1926 movie palace was meticulously restored in 2006, complete with a Mighty Wurlitzer theatre organ. (updated May 2016)
  • 3 Casa Navarro State Historical Park, 228 S. Laredo St., ☏ +1 210 226-4801, . Tu-Sa 10AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM (closed Thanksgiving, Christmas Eve, Christmas Day, New Year’s Eve, and New Year’s Day). Homesite of Jose Antonio Navarro, a 19th-century Texas legislator under Mexico, the Republic of Texas and the U.S. The park is the site of Navarro's furnished house, first residence, and store. $4, 6-18 $3, 5 and under: Free. Casa Navarro State Historic Site (Q5047854) on Wikidata Casa Navarro State Historic Site on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • King William Historic Area, Bounded by Durango, South St. Mary’s, Eagleland and the San Antonio River. A 25-block area south of downtown and east of the San Antonio River. In the late 1800s, prominent German merchants settled the King William area, making it the most elegant residential area in the city. It is Texas' first Historic District. Accessible from Alamo Plaza via the Blue VIA Streetcar. Highlights include the magnificent mansions along King William St. from Beauregard St. to Guenther St. Don't miss the Steves Homestead (1876) on King William St. or the Guenther House (1859) and Pioneer Flour Mills on Guenther St. If you happen to arrive in San Antonio early in the month, try to catch First Friday, like the name implies, it happens the first Friday of the month. On First Friday you can find all kinds of little booth selling things ranging from flowers to art to funnel cakes. There is usually live music. (updated May 2016)
River Walk Tour Boat
  • River Walk (Paseo del Rio). The River Walk area, one level below the street level of San Antonio, is an excellent place to explore by day and party by night. The River Walk has guided barge tours by Rio San Antonio Cruises departing regularly. Numerous restaurants, shops, and hotels line the River Walk on both sides of the most popular and developed downtown loop, which winds its way below the streets bounded by Houston to the north, Alamo to the east, Villita to the south, and St. Mary's to the west. The east end of the River Walk is extended to the Convention Center and to the Rivercenter Mall. Further development of the River Walk is proceeding north and south of downtown. No visit to San Antonio is complete without a stroll along the River Walk. Along many sections of the River Walk, there is nothing between the edge of the sidewalk and the river. Be very careful with young children, baby strollers, wheelchairs, intoxicated persons, etc. San Antonio River Walk on Wikipedia 
  • 4 San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (Missions are about 2.5 miles / 4 km apart), ☏ +1 210-932-1001. Four Spanish frontier missions, part of a colonization system that stretched across the Spanish southwest in the 17th, 18th and 19th centuries, are preserved here. They are missions San Jose, San Juan, Espada, and Concepcion. These, plus four other missions around San Antonio, have been listed as a UNESCO World Heritage site. The national park, containing many cultural sites along with some natural areas, was established in 1978 and covers about 819 acres (331 hectares). San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (Q6629903) on Wikidata San Antonio Missions National Historical Park on Wikipedia (updated May 2021)
  • 5 San Antonio Zoological Gardens and Aquarium, 3903 N. St. Mary’s Street, ☏ +1 210 734-7184, . Open 365 days a year: 9AM-5PM from Labor Day to Memorial Day; 9AM-6PM, Memorial Day to Labor Day. The zoo is home to over 3,500 animals representing 750 species of animals on 56 acres (23 hectares). Adults $14.25; seniors (62+) and children (3-11) $11.25; under 2 free, group rates available. San Antonio Zoo (Q8214801) on Wikidata San Antonio Zoo on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 6 San Antonio Botanical Gardens, 555 Funston Place, ☏ +1 210 536-1400. Daily 9AM-5PM; closed Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day and New Year’s Day. Another peaceful place to walk is in the San Antonio Botanical Gardens. In the spring they have the Spring Children's Vegetable Garden Program. Adults $10; 3-13 $7, under 3 free; Seniors, military and students $8. (updated May 2016)

Museums and galleries

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  • 7 Blue Star Contemporary Art Center, 116 Blue Star, ☏ +1 210 227-6960, . A part of the Blue Star Arts Complex, the art center is a non-profit, non-collecting contemporary art center that advances the growth and understanding of contemporary art, artists and the curatorial process. Blue Star Contemporary Art Center (Q4929912) on Wikidata Blue Star Contemporary on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 8 Buckhorn Saloon and Museum, 318 E. Houston Street, ☏ +1 210 247-4000. Daily 10AM, closing time varies with season. See website for deails. A short two blocks from the Alamo and 50 feet (15 m) from the River Walk. Adults $19.99; children (ages 3-11) $14.99. Buckhorn Saloon & Museum (Q4983163) on Wikidata Buckhorn Saloon & Museum (San Antonio) on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 9 Institute of Texan Cultures (aka ITC), 801 E. Cesar E. Chavez Blvd (HemisFair Park; main entrance is off Durango near Bowie), ☏ +1 210 458-2300, . Temporarily Closed. <<TEMPORARILY CLOSED WHILE BEING MOVED TO A NEW LOCATION IN DOWNTOWN SAN ANTONIO; ESTIMATED TO REOPEN IN SUMMER 2025>>

    A one-story 50,000 sq. ft. museum featuring Texan history, brought to life by docent-interpreters, and the cultures of over 20 national/ethnic groups of people who have made Texas their home. Admission fee. Snack machines. Accessible from downtown via the Purple VIA Streetcar.     $10; children, seniors, military, students $8. Institute of Texan Cultures (Q3380788) on Wikidata Institute of Texan Cultures on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 10 Instituto de México (Mexican Cultural Institute), 600 HemisFair Park, ☏ +1 210 227-0123. M-F 10AM-6PM, Sa 11AM-6PM, Su 11AM-5PM. (Website in Spanish.) Contemporary art from Mexico. Free. 
  • 11 McNay Art Museum (The McNay), 6000 N New Braunfels, ☏ +1 210 824-5368, . Su noon-5PM, Tu W F 10AM-4PM, Th 10AM-9PM, Sa 10AM-5PM. Free admission on Thursday evenings and the first Sunday of the month, except for select exhibitions and special events. Fine arts exhibits, library. museum store. $20; Senior, military, student $15. McNay Art Museum (Q286389) on Wikidata McNay Art Museum on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 12 The DoSeum, 2800 Broadway, ☏ +1 210 212-4453, . M-Th 10AM-5PM, F Sa 9AM-6PM, Sun noon-5PM. A vibrant museum for children, although with exhibits that might also appeal to adults. Groups, parties, events, hands-on learning play. $12. (updated May 2016)
  • 13 San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA), 200 W Jones (2 blocks west of Broadway), ☏ +1 210 978-8100, . Tu F 10AM-9PM, W Th Sa Su 10AM-5PM. Four floors of fabulous permanent collections, from Antiquities to Asian to Contemporary Art, as well as changing exhibits. Bring your sketchpad or camera (no flash, permanent collections only). Cafe SAMA serves only snacks. On the #7 Sightseer Special bus line, or via any of the buses along Broadway (#9,10,14) with several blocks walk. If you can do only one museum visit, this is the one to explore in San Antonio. $10; seniors $7; students and military $5; 12 & under free. Free Tuesdays 4PM-9PM. San Antonio Museum of Art (Q1647706) on Wikidata San Antonio Museum of Art on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 14 Southwest School of Art & Craft, 1201 Navarro and 300 Augusta, ☏ +1 210 224-1848, . Vary by gallery. See website for hours. Art/museum gift shop in the Ursuline Campus as well as student work in the hallways and cafe. On bus lines, and the Ursuline Campus backs up to an older, parklike section of the River Walk. Free. (updated May 2016)
  • 15 Texas Transportation Museum, 11731 Wetmore Rd, ☏ +1 210 490-3554. F 9AM-3PM, Sa Su 10AM-5PM. An outdoor museum which includes a private railroad, historic cars and trucks. F adult $6, child $4; Sa Su adult $8, child $6. Texas Transportation Museum (Q7708193) on Wikidata Texas Transportation Museum on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 16 Witte Museum, 3801 Broadway, ☏ +1 210 357-1900, . M 10AM-5PM, Tu 10AM-8PM, W-Sa 10AM-5PM, Su noon-5PM. Dinosaurs, textiles, natural history, science treehouse, and more. A museum complex with lots of different activities going on - fun with kids! Adult $10; seniors and military $9; 4-11 $7; free Tuesdays 3-8PM. Witte Museum (Q14711412) on Wikidata Witte Museum on Wikipedia 
  • Hopscotch Art Gallery, 711 Navarro St Suite 100, . W Th 3-9PM, F noon-10PM, Sa 10AM-11PM, Su 11AM-7PM. An interactive art museum where all artists come together to create unique and colorful art as a way to tell stories. (updated May 2022)
  • Ruby City Art Museum, 150 Camp St, ☏ +1 210-227-8400. Th 10AM–6PM, F 10AM–6PM, Sa 10AM–6PM, Su 10AM–6PM. A contemporary art museum that shows art pieces from international artists. Free. (updated May 2022)
  • 17 Villa Finale, 401 King William St. Tu - Sa, 10AM-4PM (last entry 3:30PM). Italianate mansion in the King William historic district with landscaped gardens. It houses Walter Mathis' diverse and eccentric collections. Gardens free. House $14 adult, $12 senior/military/student. Norton-Polk-Mathis House (Q16934173) on Wikidata Norton–Polk–Mathis House on Wikipedia (updated Nov 2024)

Events

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  • Fiesta!!!. Fiesta is a yearly event held in San Antonio in late April. Fiesta is a 10-day, city-wide, fun-filled, multi-cultural celebration. Many family-oriented events take place during this time, as well as many events geared towards adults. With over 100 different events, it's the biggest party and greatest community benefit in the state of Texas. One of the most fun events of all Fiesta, is Oysterbake on the St. Mary's University campus. It kicks Fiesta off with a bang, has plenty of food (chicken on a stick, oysters, fried oysters, corn, corn in a cup, meats on sticks, pizza, you name it. Friday of Oysterbake is usually more family-oriented with an 1980s or '90s band headlining the festivities. (Previous headliners: Eddie Money, Loverboy, Night Ranger, Smashmouth) Saturday is a jam-packed day of fun, food, music and booze. More modern acts will headline the main stage, there will be a country stage, and a tejano stage. Previous acts include: Three Days Grace, Chevelle, Puddle of Mudd, Hinder, Lit, 10 Years, Buckcherry (bad year), and The Veer Union. If you're single, Oysterbake on Saturday is your time to shine. Otherwise, you'll have an awesome time with friends or family. 
  • First Friday Art Walk. San Antonio First Friday is a free showcase of the art community in San Antonio. The event takes place on the 1st Friday of every month in the historic King Williams district. Many local restaurants feature live music, and there are vendors selling local goods along the walk.
  • San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo. The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo is an annual agricultural fair and entertainment event in early February. It provides world class rodeo action and entertainment to people of all ages. Everyone who's anyone in country music plays during rodeo time, simple as that. 
  • Texas Folklife Festival. The Texas Folklife Festival is an annual four-day celebration in the second week of June, of the diverse ethnic and cultural groups that settled our state. Some 45 groups bring their stories, crafts, music, dances, and foods to share with visitors in a vibrant blend of education and entertainment. 
  • Bat migration, River Walk. Texas is one of the best places in the world to observe bat migrations. Every night at dusk in the summer, thousands of bats emerge from their "hangouts", including under urban bridges, and many people come to watch. Local conservation organizations host weekly events to explain the migration. 
  • San Japan, 900 E. Market Street. San Japan is a three-day anime convention held every Labor Day weekend. Attendees are drawn to the event to purchase merchandise, appreciate cosplay, and visit panels featuring famous guests from the voice acting and animation industries. As one of the largest Anime Conventions in Texas, just over 20,000 registered attendees descended upon San Japan in 2019. You don't have to be a hardcore anime fan to appreciate this event; plenty of other nerdy subculture can be found in and around the Riverwalk over the course of these three days. Price varies according to badge type.. San Japan on Wikipedia (updated Mar 2022)

Amusement parks

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Parks

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  • 6 Eisenhower Park, 19399 NW Military Hwy. Daily, sunrise to sunset. Eisenhower Park is roughly 20 miles (30 km) from downtown, close to many good quality amenities for pre- or post-hike activities. The park has a good size parking lot, and parking is free. It also has onsite facilities you can rent if you'd like to have a social gathering on park grounds. The park offers 6.35 miles (10.22 km) of paved and natural trails through a preserved Texas Hill Country landscape, providing plenty of opportunity to observe local plants and wildlife as well. The park is dog- and kid-friendly (it has a playground and children's rock wall), but bikes and other recreational transport options are not allowed on the trails. Trail difficulty ranges from easy to moderately intense -- some trails might be challenging for those who find it hard to climb up and down rocky inclines. free. Dwight D. Eisenhower Park (Q5318135) on Wikidata Dwight D. Eisenhower Park (San Antonio) on Wikipedia (updated Jan 2022)
  • 7 Crownridge Canyon Natural Area, 7222 Luskey Road. Daily, sunrise to sunset. Crownridge Canyon Natural Area is an excellent spot for a quick hike or trail run, and nature lovers will appreciate the variety of native plants (including a wildflower field) and animals often seen in the park. It's roughly 20 miles (32 km) from downtown, close to many good quality amenities for pre- or post-hike activities. It offers 1.9 miles (3.1 km) of paved and natural trails through a preserved Texas Hill Country landscape. The main trail is a low level of difficulty, suitable for most ages. No dogs or bikes are allowed on the trails. The park has a free parking lot which usually has enough parking. free. (updated Nov 2019)
  • 8 Friedrich Wilderness Park, 21395 Milsa. Daily, sunrise to sunset. Friedrich Wilderness Park has a fairly extensive network of hiking trails with varying degrees of difficulty through a preserved Texas Hill Country landscape. Total trail length is approximately 10 miles (16 km). Some trails are paved and some are natural, with options for most skill or mobility levels. This is an excellent spot for bird watching or enjoying native plants (including a wildflower area). It's in northwest San Antonio, roughly 20 miles (32 km) from downtown, close to many good quality amenities for pre- or post-hike activities. Kid-friendly, but no dogs or bikes are allowed on the trails. The park also offers nature classes for children. The park has a free parking lot, but on busy days it fills up quickly and you might have to park on the street and walk to the trailhead. free. Friedrich Wilderness Park (Q5503931) on Wikidata Friedrich Wilderness Park on Wikipedia (updated Nov 2019)
  • Greenway Trails (Howard Peak Greenway) (Entrances to the Greenway Trails are throughout the city.). Sunrise-sunset daily. The Greenway Trails are growing collection of 82 miles (132 km) of hike/bike trails for the most part located in the floodplains of San Antonio's creeks and rivers. Some but not all the trails are interconnected. The trails themselves either asphalt or concrete and wide enough for cyclists to pass each other. Trails are open during daylight hours for walkers, runners, bikers, roller skaters bird watchers and others. There are more than 65 trailheads, most with parking and many with amenities such portable toilets and bike tools. For cyclists, the speed limit is 15 miles per hour (24 km/h) and e-bikes are allowed on trails. Dogs must be leashed. Free. (updated Jun 2023)

Sports

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  • 9 San Antonio Spurs. San Antonio is home to the five-time NBA Champion San Antonio Spurs who play at Frost Bank Center. After falling into a dry spell, the Spurs are now rebuilding behind young French mega-prospect Victor Wembanyama. 
  • 10 San Antonio Missions, 5757 US HWY 90 West, ☏ +1 210-675-7275. The Double-A Minor League Baseball affiliate of the San Diego Padres plays at Wolff Municipal Stadium. 
  • 11 San Antonio FC, 5106 David Edwards Dr. A USL Championship club, playing at Toyota Field. 
  • 12 San Antonio Gunslingers. The Gunslingers are San Antonio's Arena Football team. They play at the Alamodome in the NAL. (updated Jun 2023)
  • UTSA Roadrunners, ☏ +1 210 458-8872, fax: +1 210 458-4813, . The city's main college sports attractions are the teams of the University of Texas at San Antonio, whose main campus is off Loop 1604 just west of the northern interchange with I-10. UTSA has been in the American Athletic Conference since 2023. Most venues are on campus, but the football team plays at the Alamodome. Notably, the football team drew more than 35,000 fans per game for its first season in 2011. 
  • 13 Incarnate Word Cardinals (UIW Cardinals), ☏ +1 210 805-3000. The teams of the University of the Incarnate Word, whose campus is on Broadway near Breckenridge Park and the zoo, are a fairly new addition to Division I, having joined the Southland Conference in 2013. Unlike UTSA, the football team plays on campus and in the second-level FCS. 

Tours

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  • 14 Alamo Helicopter Tours (San Antonio Helicopter Tours), 8535 Mission Rd., Suite 104 (From Downtown head east on East Market St and merge onto I-37/US-281 South via ramp to I-10. Take exit 135 to merge onto SE Military Dr/TX-13-Loop W. Sharp left at Mission Road. It's at the Airport Main Terminal Building.), ☏ +1 210 287-5797. M–Sa 10AM–5PM. Offers exciting and breathtaking views of San Antonio and the Texas Hill Country, including sites such as the San Antonio River, Downtown, the Botanical Gardens and Historic Mission. $77.50-1795.00. (updated May 2016)
  • 15 San Antonio Walks, 317 Alamo Plaza (directly in front of the Alamo), ☏ +1-888-368-6874, . M-Sa 9:15AM, 12:15PM, 4PM; Su 9:15AM, 12:15PM. Professional guided tour. This is not a highlight reel, but real storytelling about the city's rich history. Captivating and educational. Voted: Best Tour in San Antonio. Member: Texas Travel Industry Association. $21; under 6 free (cash only). (updated May 2016)
  • 16 Segway Tours, 260 East Houston St, ☏ +1 210 441-1198, . San Antonio Segway Tours enables you to tour downtown San Antonio on a Segway. Learn to ride a Segway and tour beautiful and historic downtown San Antonio. Tours leave from and range from 1 hour to 2.5 hours. Tours depart 7 days a week, 6 times daily. $39-59. (updated May 2016)
  • 17 Mission Adventure Tours - Kayaking, Espada Park - 1750 SE Military Dr, ☏ +1 210-383-0872, . Guided and unguided kayak trips on the San Antonio River, as well as specialty guided kayak trips on the Median River, Comal River, San Marcos River and many other rivers throughout central and west Texas. Mission Kayak also offers beginner kayaking classes, large group and corporate tours, as well as team building events. $49-81 depending on trip length. (updated Mar 2018)

Theaters

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San Antonio is home to several historic vaudeville theatres; The Empire, Aztec, Alameda, and the Majestic. There are also many live music venues including, Sunset Station, Paper Tiger, Scout Bar, Blue Star Arts complex, Pearl Brewery, Cowboys, La Tuna's, Randy's Rock Bottom Tattoo Bar, and The Ten Eleven and many great local bands.

  • 18 Majestic Theatre, 224 E. Houston St, ☏ +1 210 226-5700, . Recognized as one of the most ornate facilities in the country, the Majestic has long held a special place in the archives of Texas theatrical and architectural history. In the heart of downtown San Antonio, the Majestic was designed and built in 1929 by John Eberson for Karl Hoblitzelle's Interstate Theatres, and stood proudly for many years as the largest theatre in Texas and the second largest motion picture theatre in the country. It was intended to be the most modern and ornate building in South Texas - complete with new sound and projection equipment - and was the first theatre in the state to be totally air-conditioned. (updated May 2016)

San Antonio is home to a variety of shopping venues with a wide selection of shops and stores. With ten major shopping malls within an hour drive of downtown as well as La Villita and Market Square in the heart of downtown San Antonio.

  • 1 Alamo Quarry Market, 255 E Basse Rd, ☏ +1 210 225-1000, fax: +1 210 271-3491, . M-Sa 10AM-9PM, Su noon-6PM. Alamo Quarry Market (Q4705974) on Wikidata Alamo Quarry Market on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 2 La Villita (La Villita Historic Arts Village), 418 Villita St, ☏ +1 210-207-8614, fax: +1 210-207-4390. M-F 10AM-6PM, Su 11AM-4PM. 30 shops and galleries offer distinct handcrafted items by artists from San Antonio and surrounding areas. La Villita (Q6465837) on Wikidata La Villita on Wikipedia (updated Oct 2021)
  • 3 Market Square - El Mercado, 514 W Commerce, ☏ +1 210 207-8600, fax: +1 210 207-4287, . Daily: summer 10AM-8PM; winter: 10AM-6PM; stores closed New Year's Day, Easter, Thanksgiving, and Christmas. Visitors can browse through the 32 shops at "El Mercado," and 80 specialty shops in Farmers' Market Plaza. Market Square is also the scene of many Hispanic festivals where food and beverage booths spring up alongside the Guadalajara lamps and the strains of mariachi music blend with the excitement of Mexican dances. (updated May 2016)
  • 4 Shops at Rivercenter, 849 E Commerce, ☏ +1 210 225-0000. M-Sa 10AM-9PM; Su noon-6PM. On the River Walk and connected to the Marriott Rivercenter and the Menger Hotel. It is also within walking distance of the Alamo. Houses over 100 retail shops including an IMAX theater. Shops at Rivercenter (Q7338102) on Wikidata Shops at Rivercenter on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 5 The Shops at La Cantera, 15900 La Cantera Pkwy, ☏ +1 210 582-6255, . M-Sa 10AM-9PM, Su noon-6PM. In northern San Antonio adjacent to Six Flags Fiesta Texas. The Shops at La Cantera is an open-air mall anchored by Macy's, Nordstrom, Dillard's, and Neiman-Marcus. La Cantera offers stores on the higher-end of shopping such as Juicy Couture, Hugo Boss, Lacoste, Vera Bradley, Lucky Brand, Anthropologie, the Apple store, Aveda, Burberry, Gilly Hicks, Sleep Number, Sephora, Urban Outfitters, and more. Most people, though, come to La Cantera to eat and enjoy happy hour at some of the best, upscale yet casual restaurants in the city. Kona Grill offers $3, $4, $5 appetizers such as sushi, pizza, and egg rolls, with discounted spirits and beer. Yardhouse has hundreds of beers on tap available in a 1.4 liter yard in a classic rock-inspired setting. There is a wide array of food, the general rule for chains is to skip the dishes you find everywhere and try the specialties. Here, try the seared ahi sandwich. Other eateries are Grimaldi's Brick-Oven Pizzeria, P.F. Chang's, Perry's Steakhouse and Z Tejas — a southwestern-themed restaurant with great non-Tex-Mex food and fantastic happy hour specials. The Shops at La Cantera (Q10858351) on Wikidata The Shops at La Cantera on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)
  • 6 North Star Mall, 7400 San Pedro, ☏ +1 210 342-2325, . M-Sa 10AM-9PM, Su noon-6PM. San Antonio's internationally-acclaimed shopping destination center boasts over 200 specialty stores and restaurants. Adjacent to the San Antonio International Airport, North Star is in the heart of the city. North Star is home to the largest cowboy boots in the world. They stand 40 feet (12 m) high and 20 feet (6 m) long! Stores include Saks Fifth Avenue, Pottery Barn Kids, Armani Exchange, Arden B., Montblanc, J.Crew, Oakley, The Cheesecake Factory, Talbots, Janie and Jack, Apple, bebe, Coach, Sephora, Guess, and Steve Madden. North Star Mall (Q14711178) on Wikidata North Star Mall on Wikipedia (updated May 2016)

Groceries and other basics

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The major supermarket chains in San Antonio are H-E-B and Walmart, with some locations open 24 hours. In addition many specialty and organic supermarkets such as Whole Foods Market, Central Market, Sprouts Farmers Market, and Trader Joe's can also be found in San Antonio.

Farmers Market

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The Pearl Brewery (now an urban re-development center) hosts a farmers market on Saturdays from 9AM to 1PM and Sundays from 10AM to 2PM. Local farmers, vendors, and artisans offer up fresh, seasonal products to the public. Excellent restaurants, boutique shops, condos and apartments have been incorporated in this yellow brick former brewery. The horse stables have been converted into a ball room/dance hall. The "Pearl" is right next to the San Antonio River which forms an excellent green area, you can walk or take the river shuttle up from your hotel downtown. Plenty of parking is available under Hwy 281 and along Grayson St.

This page uses the following price ranges for a typical meal for one, including soft drink:
BudgetUnder $10
Mid-range$10 - $20
SplurgeOver $20

Budget

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  • 1 Honchos - The House of Churros, 6421 Broadway St., Alamo Heights, ☏ +1 210-760-0377. W-M noon-10PM, closed Tu. Local dessert shop with churros, hot chocolate, and other dessert items from the region. $5-10 on average. (updated May 2024)
  • 2 Casa Rio, 430 E. Commerce St, ☏ +1 210 225-6718, . Su–Th 11AM–10PM; F Sa 11AM–11PM. A great Tex-Mex restaurant if you're on a budget. This is the oldest restaurant on the River Walk, opened in 1946. You can enjoy good local-style dining in a colorful and romantic setting. Mid-range. (updated May 2016)
  • 3 Ruthie's Mexican Restaurant, 11423 West Ave, ☏ +1 210 308-0253. Great Latin food. 
  • 4 Schilo's Deli, 424 E. Commerce St, ☏ +1 210 223-6692. M–Sa 7AM-8:30PM. If you're tired of Tex-Mex, Schilo's is a great place for good German food at budget prices, right above the River Walk (next to Casa Rio). Try their Evening Specialties, available after 5PM, excellent value. Split Pea Soup is a long-time favorite. (updated May 2016)
  • 5 Teka Molino, 7231 San Pedro Ave., ☏ +1 210 344-7281, . M-Sa 7AM - 9PM. Teka Molino is a famous Tex-Mex restaurant on San Pedro, two blocks from North Star Mall. Locals are familiar with their famous puffy tacos, carne guisada, guacamole cups, bean rolls, and home-made tortillas. (updated May 2016)
  • 6 Main Street Pizza, 1906 N. Main St, . Just east of San Antonio College, about 2 miles (3.2 km) north of downtown. Popular with students at San Antonio College (SAC) as well as Trinity University because of its affordable prices, good food, and proximity to the campuses. Offers fried calamari, calzones, pizzas of all sizes, manicotti, and an eclectic mix of other traditional Italian food. Daily specials are available. (updated May 2016)

Mid-range

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  • 7 Green, 200 E Grayson St, Suite 120 (Near Downtown at Pearl Brewery), ☏ +1 210 320-5865. Su 9AM-9PM; M–Th 8AM-9PM; F 8AM-8PM. San Antonio's only all-kosher, all-vegetarian eatery. Be sure to try the soups and specials. Dinner is $7-15. Second location at 10003 NW Military, Suite 2115, in Alon Center. (updated May 2016)
  • 8 Rosario's, 722 S. St Mary's St.. A Mexican restaurant that is somewhat lacking in character but serves good food in decent-sized portions. It's a popular place, but it occupies a large space and is far enough from the Riverwalk that there usually isn't much of a wait for a table. $7-15. (updated Aug 2015)
  • 9 Joe's Crab Shack, 212 College St #100 (River Walk). The local version of a national chain. A great good time, especially when the waiters all stop and line dance in the aisles. Good food, silly T-shirts, on the north side of the River Walk loop. A great place to host a birthday party or special occasion. The "fish bowl" drinks are fun for two to share. Dinner $9-21. (updated Aug 2015)
  • 10 Liberty Bar, 1111 S. Alamo St (on the second floor - take the elevator on the side of the building), ☏ +1 210-227-1187. A bohemian eatery in a building with character. The menu lists everything that they make from scratch, ranging from breads to sauces. The entree choices vary from pizzas to pot roast to lamb burgers to "Puntas Norteñas" (tough to describe, easy to eat). There is a full bar with very knowledgeable bartenders, and a really solid beer and wine list. The buttermilk pie is a house special dessert that numerous patrons swear is extraordinary, although if you aren't already pre-disposed towards buttermilk you might be just as happy with the other pie selections. $10-25. (updated Aug 2015)
  • 11 Mi Tierra Cafe & Bakery, 218 Produce Row (in the Mercado), ☏ +1 210-225-1262. Open 24 hours. Blow $5 on the Mariachis, they're among the best in town (they tune because they care). The interior looks like Christmas vomited on a flea market, yet somehow the result is a charming and unique decor. Tex-Mex, Mex-Mex and Nuevo Mexicano food that is reasonably priced and definitely above average in terms of taste and quality. Service is prompt. Splendid bakery in the front section.Rumored to have free WiFi Entrees $9-20. (updated Aug 2015)
  • 12 Sushi Zushi, 203 S. St. Mary's (at Market, in the International Center across the street from the Drury Plaza Hotel), ☏ +1 210 472-2900. M-W 11AM-10PM; Th F 11AM-11PM; Sa 11:30AM-11PM; Su 11:30AM-10PM. Three other locations in San Antonio area. Extensive Japanese sushi menu, including other Japanese dishes like soup, salad, udon, soba, etc. Japanese comfort foods are good value. Tasteful, modern setting. (updated May 2016)
  • 13 Paesanos River Walk, 111 W. Crockett Street #100, ☏ +1 210 227-2782. Su-Th 11AM–10PM; F Sa 11AM–11PM. Classic Mediterranean and contemporary Italian dining on the San Antonio River Walk. Modern Mediterranean specialties such as Shrimp Paesano or oven-baked pizzas piled high with grilled chicken and artichokes, Lemon Peppered Salmon, or daily specials. Choose from inside or terrace seating and enjoy views to the famed San Antonio River Walk. (updated May 2016)

Splurge

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  • 14 Boudros, 421 E. Commerce, ☏ +1 210 224-8484. Su-Th 11AM-11PM, F Sa 11AM-midnight. From Commerce St. entrance, take the elevator down to the River level and walk through the restaurant to the riverfront entrance. A very popular Texas bistro, with locals and tourists alike, right on the River Walk. Hearty portions. Blackened prime rib is its signature dish. Reservations are advisable, especially weekends. (updated Apr 2016)
  • 15 Azuca, 713 S Alamo St, ☏ +1 210-225-5550. Best tortas de jamon (ham sandwiches) north of Mexico City. (updated Apr 2016)
  • 16 Biga on the Banks, 203 S. St. Mary's (International Center), ☏ +1 210 225-0722. Biga on the Banks has a reputation for innovation. Owner and Chef Bruce Auden is known for his culinary creativity. Reservations recommended. $25-50. (updated May 2016)
  • 17 Savor The Culinary Institute of America, 200 E Grayson St. #117 (in the Historic Pearl Brewery Complex), ☏ +1 210-554-6484. Part of the Culinary Institute Of America. (updated May 2016)

Drink

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San Antonio's downtown is the hub of the city's nightlife, with hundreds of dining options, bars and clubs mostly on the Riveralk and throughout street level. Other major nightlife locales, include Southtown Arts District, home to First Friday Art Walk, a large art block party with crowds upward of 20,000 along Alamo St. Scores of dining, galleries, theatres and lodging options, that include more than 10 historic 19th century B&Bs adjacent to the Riverwalk.

Wander down through the River Walk and take your choice of bars and eateries. You can't go wrong. There are also several bars/restaurants in the Mercado block of tourist shops.

  • 1 Drink Texas, 200 Navarro St, Suite 100, ☏ +1 210 224-1031. 2PM-2AM daily. (updated May 2016)
  • 2 Mad Dogs British Pub, 123 Losoya St # 19. British-themed bar & grill on the Riverwalk. (updated Apr 2016)
  • 3 Howl at the Moon, 111 W. Crockett #201, ☏ +1 210 212-4770, . Su-Th 7PM-2AM; F Sa 6PM-2AM. Howl at the Moon is a singing, clapping, stomping, dance-on-the-piano, rock 'n' roll dueling piano show! It's part concert, part piano bar & all centered around audience interaction & 2 baby grand pianos. Howl at the Moon offers an experience beyond the average bar with live entertainment, comedy, & sing-a-longs throughout the night. Howl at the Moon is the perfect place for corporate parties & special events. Don't fret if you can't get there for your party or event–with their "Piano Shows To Go," they'll bring all the excitement & fun to you! On Thursday nights, bring your Texas college ID for free admission and drink specials -- usually $1 domestic, $2 Corona or Dos XX, and $3 UV Vodka $4 Bull Blasters. Great place to meet people on Thursdays. (updated May 2016)
  • 4 The Little Rhein Prost Haus, 231 S. Alamo St., ☏ +1 210-890-2225. 5-10PM. A friendly gathering place with rustic charm and its historically significant location on the San Antonio River. The building was erected in 1847 and is basically unaltered since its original construction. German comfort food dishes. (updated May 2016)
  • 5 Zinc, 207 N. Presa St., ☏ +1 210 224-2900. M-F 11AM-2AM; Sa Su 3PM-2AM. Zinc serves wines from all corners of the globe with an emphasis on champagne and domestic varietals. (updated May 2016)
  • 6 SoHo Wine and Martini Bar, 214 W. Crockett St, ☏ +1 210 444-1000. 4PM-2AM. Extensive drink menu, in addition to your usual favorites SoHo also provides an impressive array of fun specialty house martinis such as the Ginger Tini, The Espresso Tini and the Carmel Apple Tini. (updated May 2016)
  • 7 Retox bar, 1031 Patricia Dr (Blanco/West Ave), ☏ +1 210-775-2886. 2PM-2AM. Retox is local live music venue, Retox is classified as an upscale dive bar.. 

Sleep

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Budget

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Mid-range

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Splurge

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  • 17 Crockett Hotel, 320 Bonham, ☏ +1 210-225-6500, . This sister hotel to the Menger is across from both the Rivercenter and the Alamo. The Crockett Hotel (Q56426800) on Wikidata Crockett Hotel on Wikipedia (updated May 2021)
  • 18 The Emily Morgan San Antonio – a DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel, 705 East Houston St, ☏ +1-210-225-5100. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. The Emily Morgan Hotel in San Antonio Texas is the official hotel of the Alamo and is next to the Alamo and near San Antonio's Riverwalk. $159. The Emily Morgan Hotel (Q56427673) on Wikidata (updated Jan 2022)
  • 19 The Hotel Contessa, 306 W. Market St, ☏ +1 210-229-9222. A contemporary-style 12-story hotel offering 265 suites with over-sized bathrooms and a separate parlor with a sleeper sofa. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 20 Hotel Havana, 1015 Navarro St, ☏ +1 210-222-2008. Boutique hotel overlooking the Riverwalk. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 21 Hyatt Regency Hill Country, 9800 Hyatt Resort Dr, ☏ +1 210 647-1234, fax: +1 210 681-9681. 27 holes of championship golf, Windflower spa and four-acre (1.6-hectare) water park. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 22 Hyatt Regency San Antonio, 123 Losoya St. 632-room hotel directly overlooking the historic Alamo and on the Riverwalk. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 23 Marriott Plaza San Antonio, 555 S Alamo St (Take Hwy. 281 (I-37) South, take the Cesar Chavez exit. Go right on Cesar Chavez to Alamo, take a right on Alamo, an immediate left on Arciniega. Hotel is on corner of Alamo and Cesar Chavez Streets.), ☏ +1 210-229-1000. Check-in: 4PM, check-out: 11AM. The hotel sits on 6 acres (2 hectares) of lush landscape and is home to Asian pheasants and colorful peacocks. Guests can enjoy the outdoor pool and fire pit or grab dinner at the hotel's Anaqua Restaurant & Lounge, which serves breakfast, lunch and dinner. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 24 San Antonio Marriott Rivercenter, 101 Bowie St (adjacent to the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center and the Rivercenter Mall), ☏ +1 210-223-1000. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 25 Menger Hotel, 204 Alamo Plaza (connected to the Rivercenter, and next door to the Alamo). (updated Jul 2017)
  • 26 Noble Inns, 209 Washington St, ☏ +1 210-223-2353, toll-free: +1-800-242-2770, . Three distinctive bed and breakfast properties, all in the King Williams District. Amenities include free Wi-Fi, fireplaces, whirlpool tubs, heated pool and hot tub. $99-299. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 27 San Antonio Marriott Riverwalk, 889 East Market St, ☏ +1 210-224-4555. Balcony views of the city and River Walk below. Across the street from the San Antonio Convention Center. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 28 Omni La Mansion, 112 College St, ☏ +1 210-518-1000. At the River Walk on the banks of the Paseo del Rio in downtown. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 29 The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio, 420 W Market St, ☏ +1 210-224-6500. Check-in: 3PM, check-out: noon. (updated Jul 2017)
  • 30 La Cantera Resort & Spa, 16641 La Cantera Parkway, toll-free: +1-866-716-8137. In the Texas Hill Country just north of San Antonio; good views. Six pools, three hot tubs, 36 holes of golf, spa services, tennis courts and a kids club. La Cantera Resort & Spa (Q111394183) on Wikidata (updated Jul 2017)

Stay safe

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By American standards, San Antonio is safe for its size; despite a rather high poverty rate and the racial tensions that flared up around the country since 2017, the Alamo City has managed to avoid most of the crime waves that hit other American cities. As long as you take elementary precautions, you'll have a fantastic time. Even when there are crowds for such events like the Alamo Bowl, it is still relatively safe. The River Walk always has something going on, but if you're in one of the quieter spots at night, exercise some caution.

San Antonio has a high rate of cars break-ins. Do not leave any belongings in your car.

Some neighborhoods in the east (Eastwood Village, Wheatley Heights, Arena District) should be approached with caution at night, though they are of little interest to tourists unless you. In San Antonio, if a place looks iffy, don't go there at night.

Connect

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As of Dec 2021, San Antonio has 5G from AT&T Mobility and T-Mobile. Free WiFi is widely available.

Cope

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Consulates

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Go next

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To leave San Antonio, use US 281 south to get to Brownsville, I-10 east to get to Houston, I-10 west to get to El Paso, I-35 north to get to Austin, Waco, and Dallas/Fort Worth, I-37/US 181 south to get to Corpus Christi and Floresville, SH 16 north to get to Bandera, SH 16 south to get to Poteet, or US 281 north to get to Blanco and Johnson City. An alternate route to Austin is to use US 281 north and US 290 east. I-410 and SH 151 do not leave the city. However, Loop 1604 does go to small towns in the county.

  • New Braunfels - 30 miles (48 km) northeast of San Antonio, this town is best known for its German culture and heritage, not to mention the Schlitterbahn, persistent in being voted the world's best waterpark.
  • San Marcos - 50 miles (80 km) northeast of San Antonio, San Marcos is the home of Texas State University and its Aquarena Center, as well as two massive outlet malls that have more than 350 shops.
Routes through San Antonio
Tucson ← Del Rio ←  W  E  → Houston → New Orleans
Tucson ← Del Rio ←  W  NE  → San Marcos → Dallas
El Paso ← Boerne ←  W  E  → Seguin → Houston
Austin ← New Braunfels ←  NE  SW  → Laredo → END
END ←  N  S  → Pleasanton → Corpus Christi
Fredericksburg ← Boerne ←  N  S  → Cuero → Port Lavaca
Del Rio ← Castroville ←  W  E  → Seguin → Houston
Wichita Falls ← Blanco ←  N  S  → Pleasanton → McAllen
Kerrville ← Bandera ←  N  S  → Jourdanton → Jct N S


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