Where to Park Near San Antonio's Top Tourist Spots
San Antonio offers thousands of downtown parking spaces near major attractions. You'll find free parking through city programs like Downtown Tuesday (in participating city facilities) after 5 p.m., and Sunday free parking at the City Tower Garage. The San Antonio Zoo Parking Garage provides free parking during zoo business hours.
For River Walk access, the Shops at Rivercenter garage is a popular option. Near The Alamo, public garages and lots are available within a short walk. Discover more money-saving options and insider tips below.
River Walk Parking Options and Money-Saving Tips
Navigating San Antonio's parking scene doesn't have to consume your vacation budget when visiting the iconic River Walk. The city offers thousands of parking spaces, with options ranging from premium garages to affordable meters.
For budget-conscious visitors, take advantage of free parking on Downtown Tuesdays (5 p.m. to 2 a.m.) in participating city garages, lots, and meters, or Sunday free parking at City Tower Garage from 7 a.m. to midnight. The Shops at Rivercenter garage provides convenient access to river-level attractions and nearby pickup points for river tours, with elevators that help visitors who need step-free routes. Short-term street parking at meters can be one of the most affordable choices for quick stops, with enforcement typically ending at 6 p.m. in many areas.
Some garages offer competitive short-stay rates, and accessible parking accommodations are available throughout downtown with maps highlighting ADA-compliant routes to the River Walk. Arrive early during peak times to secure your preferred spot.
Easy Parking Access to San Antonio Zoo and Japanese Tea Gardens
Visiting the San Antonio Zoo and Japanese Tea Gardens becomes stress-free when you know where to park your vehicle. The multi-level Zoo Parking Garage offers secure parking and is free during zoo business hours, with a pedestrian route that leads toward the zoo area. The parking structure's colorful exterior design ties into the zoo's themes and makes it easy to spot as you arrive.
If you're headed to the Japanese Tea Gardens, use the surface lots throughout Brackenridge Park, as there's no dedicated garage exclusively for this attraction.
- Feel the relief knowing your parking can be FREE at the Zoo garage during zoo business hours
- Enjoy peace of mind with ADA-compliant spaces for all visitors
- Experience convenience with nearby rentals and visitor services offered through the zoo (availability can vary)
- Relish the colorful artwork decorating the garage exterior
- Appreciate the landscaping that enhances your approach to these attractions
Where to Park for Downtown Cultural and Entertainment Venues
When planning your downtown San Antonio adventure, navigating the parking situation can make or break your cultural experience. Downtown offers thousands of spaces across garages, lots, and metered spots, with many strategically located near the River Walk, Majestic Theatre, and other attractions.
Take advantage of Downtown Tuesday with free parking in participating city facilities from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m., which works well for evening shows. Park availability during peak hours can be challenging, but apps like Parking.com and other parking-reservation platforms can help you locate and compare nearby options. Visitors can also find convenient parking choices near popular destinations like San Fernando Cathedral and The Alamo.
For longer visits, consider that metered street parking is generally free outside posted enforcement hours, and many visitors plan evening outings around that window. City Tower Garage offers free Sunday parking from 7 a.m. to midnight, making weekend cultural excursions more affordable.
Best Parking Choices for Hemisfair Park and Tower of the Americas
Hemisfair Park and the iconic Tower of the Americas present unique parking needs distinct from other downtown attractions. You'll find the Hemisfair Garage with 238 spaces at 623 Hemisfair Blvd especially convenient, offering the first 30 minutes free with card-only payment.
Your parking fees support the district's ongoing operations and public-facing park experience.
Nearby options, including lots near S. Alamo and E. Nueva, can be helpful during busy event windows when the garage fills. The Riverbend Garage is also within a short walking distance, providing an alternative when demand is high.
Frequent visitors should watch for posted promotions or event-specific parking guidance at nearby facilities. The S. Alamo St. Lot is another option, though traffic patterns can shift due to ongoing construction in the Hemisfair area.
Consider VIA routes that serve downtown if you'd rather skip parking logistics during major events.
Convenient Parking Near The Alamo and Historic Missions
Looking for parking near The Alamo can feel overwhelming for first-time visitors to San Antonio's most iconic landmark. While there's no visitor parking on The Alamo grounds, several public garages and lots are within a short walk, including options near East Commerce and the Rivercenter area.
For convenience, try the Shops at Rivercenter Garage or nearby paid lots that post their rates at the entrance, which can be a simple choice when you want predictable access. Some parking facilities in the Alamo district operate with extended hours, but hours and pricing can change with events and seasons. Disability access is available at designated city lots and garages—check current signage and official maps for the most up-to-date locations. Consider advance booking options through platforms like ParkWhiz or SP+ Parking to secure your spot and potentially lock in better rates.
If you're visiting the other historic missions, you'll find ample complimentary parking at most sites with considerably less congestion than downtown.
Insider Tips for Finding Affordable Parking in Tourist Areas
Finding affordable parking in San Antonio's tourist areas requires strategic planning and insider knowledge. Take advantage of free parking windows outside posted meter enforcement hours, and use Downtown Tuesday and City Tower Sunday free parking at city-operated facilities when they apply. For longer visits, consider daily-rate garages or advance reservations through platforms like SpotHero, ParkWhiz, or Parking.com, which can reduce stress during high-demand weekends.
- Save money by booking parking in advance through mobile apps rather than paying the highest drive-up rates
- Avoid the frustration of driving in circles by using official parking maps and live availability tools when offered
- Experience the freedom of extended visits by choosing garages with clear day rates and easy in-and-out policies
- Enjoy peace of mind that comes with secure, well-lit garages when you're out late downtown
- Maximize your budget with park-and-ride options or transit connections during big festivals and event nights
