Finding cheap parking in San Antonio can be a challenge, especially in busy areas like downtown, the River Walk, and near the Alamo. But with the right tips, you can avoid overpaying and park conveniently. This guide covers the best affordable parking in San Antonio, including garages, street parking, free spots, and insider tricks to save money.
Table of Contents
Why San Antonio Parking Costs Vary
Parking rates in San Antonio depend on:
- Location (Downtown is pricier than outskirts)
- Time of day (Early bird vs. peak hours)
- Events (Spurs games, Fiesta, conventions increase demand)
- Type of parking (Street meters vs. garages vs. surface lots)
Knowing where and when to park can help you cut costs significantly.
Cheapest Parking Options in San Antonio
1. Downtown San Antonio Parking Garages (Best for Convenience)
Several city-run garages offer flat rates and hourly discounts:
- St. Mary’s Garage ($2/hour, $15 daily max) – Close to River Walk & Alamo
- Riverbend Garage ($1.50/hour, $12 daily max) – Near Hemisfair Park
- Early Bird Specials: Some garages charge just $8/day if you enter before 9 AM.
✅ Best for: Visitors touring downtown attractions.
2. Metered Street Parking (Cheap for Short Stays)
- $1.50–$2/hour in most areas.
- Free on Sundays & city holidays.
- Use the ParkSA app to extend time remotely.
⚠️ Watch out: Time limits (2–4 hours max in busy zones).
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3. Park & Ride Lots (Best for Commuters & Budget Travelers)
- VIA Metropolitan Transit offers free parking at hubs like:
- Randolph Park & Ride (Northwest)
- Madla Transit Center (Southwest)
- Take a bus downtown for $1.30 per ride, avoiding high garage fees.
✅ Best for: Locals commuting to work or events.
4. Free Parking in San Antonio (Limited but Available)
While downtown free parking is rare, some areas offer it:
- Southtown (Near Blue Star Arts Complex)
- Pearl District (Limited free spots, arrive early)
- Residential areas outside downtown (Check signage for restrictions)
⚠️ Avoid tickets: Never park in permit-only zones without a pass.
5 Pro Tips to Save on San Antonio Parking
1. Use Parking Apps
- ParkSA (Official city app for meters & garages)
- ParkMobile (Works in private lots too)
- SpotHero (Reserve discounted spots in advance)
2. Take Advantage of Early Bird & Night Rates
- Some garages offer 50% off evening parking after 5 PM.
- Weekend specials may apply in less busy garages.
3. Walk a Few Blocks for Lower Rates
- Garages just outside downtown (e.g., near San Antonio College) often charge half the price.
4. Validate Parking at Nearby Businesses
- Some restaurants, hotels, and shops offer validation for nearby lots.
5. Consider Rideshare or Public Transit
- VIA buses cost just $1.30 per ride—cheaper than parking all day.
- Bike rentals (e.g., BCycle) are great for short trips.
Parking Near Popular San Antonio Attractions
1. Alamo & River Walk Parking
- Riverbend Garage ($12/day) – 5-minute walk to Alamo Plaza.
- Street parking on Commerce St. (Free Sundays).
2. Pearl District Parking
- Free for 2 hours in Pearl’s lot (with validation from shops).
- Paid garages nearby if staying longer.
3. AT&T Center (Spurs Games & Concerts)
- Official lots cost $20–$40, but nearby street parking is free (arrive early).
Park Smart in San Antonio
By using city garages, Park & Ride, and parking apps, you can avoid overpaying for parking in San Antonio. Always:
✔ Check for early bird rates
✔ Use free parking when possible
✔ Walk a little extra to save
For real-time updates, visit San Antonio Parking Operations.
Did we miss a great cheap parking spot? Let us know in the comments!
FAQ:
Where is the cheapest parking in downtown San Antonio?
The most affordable parking in downtown San Antonio is at:
City-operated garages (e.g., St. Mary’s Garage: $2/hour, $15/day max).
Street parking ($1.50–$2/hour, free on Sundays).
Early bird specials ($8/day if you enter before 9 AM).
Is there free parking near the River Walk?
Free parking is rare near the River Walk, but you can find:
Free street parking in Southtown (10–15 min walk).
2-hour free parking at Pearl District lots (with validation).
Free Park & Ride lots with VIA bus connections.
What’s the best app for parking in San Antonio?
ParkSA (official city app for meters/garages).
ParkMobile or SpotHero for private lot discounts.
How much does parking cost at the Alamo?
Parking near the Alamo averages:
$12–$20/day in garages (e.g., Riverbend Garage).
$2/hour for street meters (limited to 2–4 hours).
What time is street parking free in San Antonio?
Meters are free on Sundays and city holidays.
Some areas offer free evenings after 6 PM (check signs).
Where can I park for Spurs games or concerts?
AT&T Center lots: $20–$40 (official parking).
Cheaper option: Free street parking nearby (arrive early).
What’s the best way to avoid parking tickets?
Pay via ParkSA app (reminders before expiration).
Observe time limits (2–4 hours for meters).
Avoid permit-only zones (common in neighborhoods).
