Transportation Guide to San Antonio

San Antonio has grown tremendously in the past few years, and while most tourist destinations are concentrated in and around the Downtown area and along the River Walk, there are many hidden gems worth visiting throughout the city.

Traveling between San Antonio’s diverse neighborhoods can be a worthwhile adventure. As a typical car-centric Texas destination, having a car might be necessary to reach some of the outlying attractions. Furthermore, the hot and humid summer weather enhances the appeal of an air-conditioned vehicle.

However, driving isn’t the only option for getting around San Antonio. There are sustainable, affordable, and accessible forms of transportation available, making it easier than ever to explore the city. Below is a comprehensive guide to help you navigate San Antonio’s transportation options.

Zip Around the Alamo City by Car

In San Antonio, most residents and visitors prefer using cars. The attractions are spread across different areas, so driving becomes the easiest and fastest method to visit all the must-see spots.

Parking is plentiful throughout the city, and EV charging stations can be found in popular neighborhoods and some suburbs. If you venture onto the highway, the HOV lane is an option if your car carries two or more passengers. Interestingly, motorcycles can access the HOV lane with just a single rider.

Moreover, taxis and rideshares, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available. ZTrip operates similarly to a taxi-rideshare hybrid, enabling users to hail rides, call for pickup, or arrange services via an app. This option also includes wheelchair-accessible vehicles.

Tips on Driving the Only Toll Road in San Antonio

San Antonio features one toll road; however, you might not need to use it unless planning a day trip outside the city. SH 130 allows you to bypass heavy I-35 traffic while driving up to 85 mph on the city’s eastern outskirts. Remember, if your rental car doesn’t have a TxTag, you will incur a fee for using the toll.

Hop on a San Antonio Bus and Save Money

The San Antonio public bus system, known as VIA Metropolitan Transit, operates seven days a week and offers more than 90 routes. The Downtown area has the most bus service and stops, providing an affordable way for travelers to explore this vibrant neighborhood.

In addition to regular bus routes, an express service offers nonstop routes from the suburbs to downtown San Antonio, featuring amenities such as reclining seats, overhead storage, free Wi-Fi, and personal reading lights.

The city’s premium public-bus service, Prímo, provides a more comfortable ride along three routes with natural gas-powered buses. These buses connect to stations equipped with coverings, free Wi-Fi, and real-time arrival signs, running from 4 am to 1 am every day.

Tips for Taking the Bus

The VIA goMobile+ app is essential for accessing bus stops, schedules, purchasing tickets, and customer service. You can also plan your bus route through Google Maps. All VIA buses feature bicycle racks and free Wi-Fi.

At each stop, digital signs display bus arrival times, and you can text a five-digit number from the bus stop sign for real-time information. Transfers between buses are free, though obtaining a transfer pass upon boarding is required, valid for 2½ hours.

Utilize VIA Link in Northeast, Northwest, and South San Antonio

While San Antonio lacks a public subway system, an intriguing option called VIA Link provides an on-demand rideshare service at a remarkably low cost of $1.30 per ride.

This service covers the Northeast, Northwest, and South Zones of San Antonio. You can order VIA Link through a dedicated app or by calling for a pickup within the same zone. The service operates daily from 5:30 am to 9:30 pm, accommodating up to three passengers per van.

Explore Certain Neighborhoods on Foot

While San Antonio isn’t the most walkable city in Texas, several neighborhoods such as the Pearl District, Southtown, and Downtown offer excellent opportunities for exploration on foot.

The renowned River Walk, a 15-mile-long path, connects various neighborhoods and attractions, enabling you to enjoy the city’s beauty while strolling along the riverside.

However, remember that San Antonio’s summer temperatures can reach into the mid-90°F range, so be sure to stay hydrated and find shaded areas to take breaks during your walks around the city.

Enjoy San Antonio’s River via Water Transportation

Instead of walking along the banks of the San Antonio River, consider taking a GO RIO river shuttle. Operating daily from noon to 8 pm, the boat service runs up and down the river from Downtown to Museum Reach. If you plan on using the shuttle more than once, consider purchasing a three-day pass for added convenience.

Biking: The Sustainable Way to See San Antonio

The San Antonio Bike Plan, initiated in 2011 and updated in 2022, focuses on making the city more bike-friendly. To access the city’s extensive biking trails and learn more about its bikeshare program, download the San Antonio BCycle app.

Numerous BCycle docking stations are available for bike rentals, running along a north-south line between Brackenridge Park and San Antonio Missions National Historic Park. Options include the Day Access Pass, allowing unlimited 60-minute rides, or a 30-day membership for even greater access and convenience.

Many bike routes exist, including portions of the River Walk and the Hike-and-Bike Trail, which connects all five missions in San Antonio, along with various Greenway Trails.

Parking in San Antonio

As a car-centric city, ample parking exists throughout San Antonio’s popular neighborhoods. Metered parking generally costs approximately $1.80 per hour, while city garages may charge between $2 and $10. Locations with EV charging stations can also be found in some garages.

Importantly, metered parking in Downtown San Antonio is free after 6 pm from Monday to Saturday and all day on Sunday, offering visitors economical options for exploring the city during peak hours.

Free parking is also available on certain holidays, further enhancing access for travelers.

Accessible Transportation Options

Many, though not all, public bus routes are accessible, with most buses equipped with ramps and audio announcements to assist passengers. VIA’s Prímo buses accommodate two wheelchairs and include dedicated seating for easier travel.

The VIAtrans paratransit fleet offers a customized ride service for passengers with more specific accessibility needs. This service provides door-to-door pickups without transfers, but an application process is required for approval.

For wheelchair users needing transportation, San Antonio Wheelchair Taxi provides an accessible option, accommodating additional passengers at no extra charge. Additionally, options like ZTrip offer wheelchair-accessible cars for flexible travel.

VIA Transport Passes

The VIA goMobile+ app is the easiest way to manage transportation passes, though reloadable goCards can be obtained from select retail outlets. Tickets vary based on the type of bus service, with options available for unlimited rides across various transportation services.

Discounts are offered for seniors, children, active-duty military, and individuals with disabilities, ensuring affordable travel options for all.