Getting Around San Antonio
The best way to get around San Antonio is a car, especially to reach sites like Brackenridge Park and SeaWorld. Driving through the narrow downtown streets can be difficult, however, so park your car and explore on foot. And if you only have one weekend and are staying downtown, you should use the inexpensive bus system and your own two feet. Using taxis downtown is unnecessary, and you'll probably wait awhile for one to arrive. Many travelers arrive through San Antonio International Airport (SAT), which hosts a fleet of rental car agencies. There is an airport shuttle service ($18 per person) and a city bus that bring visitors to and from the airport.
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Car |
A car makes sense if you wish to sightsee beyond downtown, but the 18th-century city planners did not take that car into account when designing and constructing roads. Downtown streets are convoluted and confusing for visiting drivers. Twentieth-century architects did a much better job: The freeways effectively shuttle drivers around, and you'll want to hop on them as well. Six Flags Fiesta Texas, SeaWorld, the San Antonio Missions National Historic Park and the San Antonio Zoo and Aquarium are all easiest to reach with your own vehicle. |
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Taxi |
You'll first spot cabs at the airport. Running on the meter, your taxi ride into downtown should be about $20. Once you're there, however, you won't see many cabs patrolling the streets. Ask your hotel to call a cab if you require one. Overall, taxis are an expensive alternative to the bus. |
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Bus |
Although having a car can be helpful for exploring San Antonio's outer limits, some recommend using public transportation instead since streets are narrow and parking is limited. The VIA Metropolitan Transit offers bus routes that are both inexpensive (approximately $1.10 per ride or $4 for an unlimited day pass) and tourist-friendly, and buses make stops at many of the tourist attractions. |
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Streetcar |
VIA also operates a streetcar service that has four different routes through downtown and reaches top sites like the River Walk and the Alamo. This is a fun way to get from A to B, especially with the kids. Rides cost the same as the bus ($1.10 per ride). |
| On Foot | San Antonio's downtown core is very walkable, especially the areas surrounding the River Walk. However, if you're visiting during the summer, bring along plenty of water to help beat the heat. |
