Deep in the heart of Texas is one of the U.S.’s more unique cities. A distinctive blend of Native Americans, Spanish, Mexican and other immigrant cultures make San Antonio a must-visit destination. But for many travelers booking flights to San Antonio, there’s one essential must-see spot: the Alamo.
San Antonio came about in the 1700s when the King of Spain sent Spaniard families to settle in the area. The area prospered, but not without suffering. Texas and Mexico fought fierce battles to claim the land and independence. During this time was the famous siege of the Alamo, which today remains one of the most visited sites in America.
In the 1920s, San Antonio hit a crossroads and was stuck between modernizing the city and preserving the authenticity of its ancestors. This dispute resulted in the draining of the San Antonio River, an effort commissioned by the city to make room for more high-rise buildings and new city spaces. This caused uproar with San Antonio locals and soon a union was formed to save the river. The fight was successful and today’s Paseo del Rio, or River Walk, is the pride of San Antonio. Today, San Antonio remains one of the biggest cultural conglomerates of the south. Flights to San Antonio continue to bring millions of travelers to the third largest city in Texas for a taste of the traditional Deep South.
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High temperatures and high humidity are the norm in San Antonio from late May through September. The fall and spring seasons, however, are the best times to book flights to San Antonio and explore the city. The days are warm and the nights are cool but soothing. Temperate weather during November and December make trips to San Antonio an pleasant experience.
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Peak Season
The peak travel season in San Antonio is the summer months during school vacations, although this is not the best weather. Summer is hot and steamy and restaurants and attractions are commonly crowded. However, if you book flights to San Antonio during the summer months rest assured there are plenty of places to cool down (museums, SeaWorld and Six Flags are among the top places to visit).
Off Season
Fall and spring bring the best temperatures and subsequently, the least amount of visitors.This is due mainly to schools being in session. However, this is also when conventions and business expos book San Antonio. It's easy to find cheap flights to San Antonio during the off season, but be careful about your accommodations. If there's a convention in town the hotels are likely to be pricier. If you're booking flights to San Antonio for pleasure, consider a bed-and-breakfast or a hotel not sponsoring an event for the best rates.
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The San Antonio public transportation system -- VIA Metropolitan Transit Service -- is visitor-friendly and inexpensive. Regular bus service is available for $1 and additional transfers will cost an extra 15 cents. You will need exact change to ride the bus so plan ahead. VIA also offers downtown streetcar routes that hit all the major tourist stops for $1 (exact change required). The trolleys have color-coded signs that display their routes and destinations.
Driving isn't recommended if you're staying in downtown San Antonio. The city is a conglomerate of one-way streets that is confusing and tourists can quickly get lost.
Cabs are available outside the airport and at most major downtown hotels, but you'll need to phone ahead if you need a cab from another departure point.
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- The San Antonio Museum of Art is located in the old Lone Star Beer Brewery and a must-see spot for any first time visitor. The museum is known for its recycling of old structures to create a modern look and feel. Check out the Rockefeller Center of Latin American Art and peruse the antiques in the Egyptian and Greek areas.
- San Antonio is one of the best festival-focused cities in the U.S., thus signifying the nickname "Fiesta City." Year round festivals include Fiestas Navideñas and Las Posadas around Christmastime; Fiesta San Antonio and Cinco de Mayo events in spring; the Texas Folklife Festival in summer; and Oktoberfest and the International Accordion Festival in autumn.
- If you visit San Antonio in early February, don't miss the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo. The two-week festival features events like calf roping, steer wrestling, and bull riding. Live country music performances take place every day during the rodeo.
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