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San Antonio Travel Information

San Antonio Vacations & Travel Tips

Health and Safety

In 1995, Texas passed a state law granting a permit to carry a concealed weapon to any Texan who has never been convicted of a felony and who passes a course in handgun use and safety. It's likely you won't notice anything at all, since public offices and private businesses are permitted to ban the carrying of concealed weapons on their premises. But you should still avoid stepping into the line of fire. Never argue with or make rude gestures at other motorists. If pulled over by a police car, keep both your hands in plain sight at all times (preferably atop the steering wheel) so the officer doesn't mistake your movements for a 'reach' (as in reaching for a weapon).

Region: Texas

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Featured San Antonio Hotel

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

The Westin Riverwalk, San Antonio

  • AAA Four Diamond Hotel
Our 4-Star classification designates those properties with well-appointed, deluxe accommodations, extensive amenities and comprehensive guest services. Expect attention to detail and a warm and hospitable staff ready to cater to your needs. These superb properties offer a truly refined getaway.
River Walk

This San Antonio luxury landmark is nestled on a romantic bend of the city's famed River Walk.

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When to Go

San Antonio's climate is quite pleasant all year round, though spring (from April to early June) and autumn (from September to November) are the most salubrious times of year. Bluebonnets and other wildflowers blanket Hill Country in April, and twinkly Christmas lights illuminate the Riverwalk in December. In winter, temperatures may still dip below freezing at night, even though they stay rather moderate during the day. This is definitely the off-season for tourism, and some of the larger theme parks are closed. Peak summer season - late June through August - can be stiflingly hot, even though there's air-conditioning everywhere. It's also when the region is most crowded. 

Getting Around

San Antonio International Airport (SAT) 16km (10mi) north of downtown, has flights from within Texas and from many destinations across the rest of the US and Mexico.

Amtrak trains link San Antonio to Los Angeles, Tucson, Palm Springs, El Paso and New Orleans on the Sunset Limited and to Chicago via Austin, Dallas, Little Rock, St Louis and more on the Texas Eagle.

Greyhound Buses arrive just north of downtown, with regular daily services to and from Austin, Dallas, Galveston, Houston and New Orleans.

VIA is San Antonio's public bus and tourist-oriented streetcar network. There are also several coach tour operators, with itineraries ranging from basic city orientation to full day outings both in and out of town.

Downtown is a complex maze if you're driving. Taxis wait at most major downtown hotels, the Greyhound and Amtrak stations and the airport. Bikes are readily available to rent downtown.

Fast Facts

The Northstar Mall displays the largest pair of cowboy boots on the planet at an impressive 40 feet high. Those are some big shoes to fill.

The Briscoe Western Art Museum includes a miniature display of the Alamo.

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