Best Times to Visit San Antonio, Texas
San Antonio – variously known as “Alamo City,” the “River City” and “Military City” – is home to some truly iconic destinations and a few hidden gems.
Some common attractions that are sure to show up on any to-do list include the Alamo, the River Walk, and perhaps a trip to the blossoming Pearl District.
However, once those boxes have been checked, what’s next? Moreover, when is the best time to see this city of many names at its best? Here’s when to go to San Antonio for festivals, food, the outdoors, and more.
Visit in May to August to Get Outdoors in San Antonio
If you associate heat with San Antonio, you are not alone. By the time May rolls around, daily highs typically average between 85-95°F, with humidity above 60%. Despite this extreme heat, many locals invite friends and family to visit each summer, as that is when San Antonio’s true colors can be seen.
The best way to experience those colors firsthand? Fireworks displays occurring all summer long.
Come Memorial Day, San Antonians celebrate that one out of every eight San Antonio residents is directly connected to the military in some way. This can be seen – and heard – in the sky throughout the summer.
Locals truly love their fireworks. On July 4, the most extravagant (legal) displays can be found at Woodlawn Lake; however, rest assured that explosions can be seen and heard from almost any location come sundown.
By day, you can escape the heat with a long river float on the Comal River in nearby New Braunfels, take a dip on the beaches of Medina Lake, or bring the whole family to San Pedro Springs.
January to April is Party Season, with Festivals and Events
Locals are partial to springtime in San Antonio: temperatures are at their most tolerable, and the city awakens as each flower blooms. The kickoff to the season is the San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo each February. Families can enjoy carnival rides and opportunities to pet livestock, returning later with friends for one of the many concerts that take place each night.
Visitors unable to make it in time for the rodeo can still take advantage of the lower seasonal hotel rates to check out the Alamo on the anniversary of its battle or set up a personal photo shoot in a field of bluebonnets, while also keeping an eye out for those rattlesnakes.
But the real gem of the season is the Fiesta. This annual multi-week celebration is one of San Antonio’s largest draws, hosting countless parades, festivals, and parties. The season kicks off with an Oyster Bake that draws 60,000–70,000 guests annually.
NIOSA (Night in Old San Antonio) is one of the most exciting Fiesta events. This four-night festival takes place in the heart of downtown, featuring food booths, dancing, local artwork, beverages, and vibrant colors. According to the festival organizers, locals consume a staggering variety of foods during this celebration.
Enjoy the Festivities from September to December
Once summer has come and gone, the tourist season begins to wane, resulting in great deals on lodging. Still, there is plenty to see throughout the fall without worrying about the summer sun.
Fright fans can visit area amusement parks for seasonal spookiness, and many find delight at haunted houses during Halloween.
Moreover, the prettiest way to see local icons like the Alamo and River Walk is when they twinkle with holiday lights. In December, visitors can take rides on riverboats beneath cascading colored lights from overhead trees. This festive atmosphere is complemented by carolers and local celebrations.
In true San Antonio tradition, the city rings in the new year with spectacular fireworks shows illuminating the downtown skyline.
