< Streetsmart

Top 10Planning Your Trip

1Tourist Offices

Before arriving, contact the San Antonio and Austin Convention and Visitors Centers for an information pack. The Texas Department of Tourism also sends out valuable information, including a state map and the Texas State Travel Guide. Stop by the Visitor Information Center for maps, current events, and discount passes and discount coupons.

2Media

In San Antonio, the San Antonio Express-News is the only daily newspaper. There are also free publications – Rio, Fiesta for events; Current is the best guide for music and clubs. Austin has several newspapers: the Austin American-Statesman, Austin Chronicle, and Austin Daily Herald.

3Internet

Websites offer helpful information and tips about vacations, festivals, city services, transport, hotels, and restaurants.

4Maps

A free map that highlights all major freeways and attractions is available from the San Antonio Convention and Visitors Bureau. The San Antonio Illustrated Souvenir Map is excellent for navigating downtown and the River Walk. You can find detailed street maps in many stores.

5Visas and Entry Requirements

Regulations change frequently so check before you travel. All international travelers must register at https://esta.cbp.dhs.gov before departure; there is an application charge.

6Insurance

Obtain travel and medical insurance before arriving in the US as medical care is very expensive. When renting a car, make sure that adequate insurance coverage for accident and theft is included.

7When to Go

San Antonio is a year-round destination. Summer is the busiest season, when attractions such as SeaWorld and Six Flags Fiesta Texas are open with extended hours daily. Spring and fall are when most of the major festivals are scheduled. Christmas time is popular, when visitors come to see the brilliantly decorated River Walk. January, February, and early March are the slowest months.

8What to Take

Casual dress is the best option. Summers are hot and humid, while spring and fall have warm days and cool nights. January and February can turn cold, but are often pleasant during the day. Rain may be expected at any time of the year.

9How Long to Stay

San Antonio’s sights can be seen in four days or less. The River Walk is best enjoyed with several short visits, while outings to SeaWorld and the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park tend to take all day. Allow a few days to explore Hill Country, Austin, or the Gulf Coast.

10Traveling with Children

Most attractions in San Antonio are suitable for children. Some of the large resorts and sights offer special children’s programs. A San Antonio Kids Directory is available at the San Antonio Visitor Information Center.

Directory

Tourist Offices

  • San Antonio Visitor Information Center
  • 317 Alamo Plaza
  • 210 207 6700