Free Parking on the Riverwalk in San Antonio: Best Options

Are you planning a trip to the Riverwalk in San Antonio but dreading the headache of finding a parking spot? We’ve all been there. The excitement of exploring one of Texas’ most iconic destinations quickly fades as you circle around and around, desperately searching for an empty space.

But what if I told you that there’s a way to avoid this frustration altogether? In fact, not only can you find parking easily, but you can park for free. That’s right, FREE.

By the end of this article, you’ll know exactly where to park for free on the Riverwalk in San Antonio and be able to enjoy your visit without any stress or worries about parking fees. So grab a cup of coffee and get ready to take notes – it’s time to make your San Antonio Riverwalk parking experience unforgettable (in the best way possible).

Where to Find Free Parking – San Antonio Riverwalk

There are several city-owned parking lots near the Riverwalk area that offer free parking for visitors. Some examples include:

• Crofts Alley Lot – Located at 214 Crofts Alley, this lot offers free parking after 5 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
• Dolorosa Lot – Located at 200 Dolorosa, this lot offers free parking after 5 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.
• St. Mary’s Lot – Located at 400 St. Mary’s Street, this lot offers free parking after 5 pm on weekdays and all day on weekends.

Street Parking Near the Riverwalk

There are also several streets near the Riverwalk area where visitors can find free street parking. However, these spots are limited and often fill up quickly, especially during peak tourist season.

Tips for Finding Free Street Parking Near the Riverwalk:

• Arrive early in the morning or later in the evening when fewer people are looking for spots.
• Read signs carefully to avoid getting ticketed or towed.
• Be prepared to walk a few blocks to reach your destination if you park further away from the Riverwalk area.

Designated Parking Spots for Visitors on the Riverwalk

Riverbend Garage

The Riverbend Garage is located at 111 Soledad Street and provides easy access to the Riverwalk area. It has over 600 parking spaces available for visitors and is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week.

Parking Rates at Riverbend Garage:

• $15 per entry before 5 pm Monday through Friday
• $20 per entry after 5 pm Monday through Friday and all day on Saturdays and Sundays

Museum Reach Lot

The Museum Reach Lot is located at 850 N St Mary’s Street and offers convenient access to many of the attractions along the Museum Reach section of the Riverwalk. It has over 100 parking spaces available for visitors.

Parking Rates at Museum Reach Lot:

• $10 per entry before 5 pm Monday through Friday
• $15 per entry after 5 pm Monday through Friday and all day on Saturdays and Sundays

Alternative Parking Options Near the Riverwalk When Free Spots are Unavailable

Private Parking Lots Near the Riverwalk

There are several private parking lots near the Riverwalk area that offer paid parking options. These lots can be more expensive than city-owned lots, but they often have more availability during peak tourist season.

Parking Rates at Private Lots Near the Riverwalk:

• Prices vary depending on location and time of day.
• Expect to pay anywhere from $10-$30 for a full day of parking.

Ride-Sharing Services and Public Transportation Options

Visitors to the Riverwalk area can also consider using ride-sharing services like Uber or Lyft or taking public transportation options like buses or taxis. These options may be less convenient than driving and parking, but they can save time and hassle in busy areas.

Tips for Using Ride-Sharing Services or Public Transportation:

• Check schedules and routes in advance to avoid delays or confusion.
• Be prepared to walk a few blocks to reach your destination from public transportation stops.
• Use caution when using ride-sharing services and always confirm your driver’s identity before getting into their vehicle.

Parking for Free Near the Riverwalk: How Far is Too Far?

When it comes to finding free parking near the Riverwalk, visitors may wonder how far they can park and still be within a reasonable walking distance. While everyone’s definition of “reasonable walking distance” may differ, most people would agree that walking more than half a mile to reach the Riverwalk area is probably too far.

Factors to Consider When Deciding How Far to Park from the Riverwalk:

• Your level of mobility and ability to walk longer distances.
• The weather conditions – walking several blocks in extreme heat or cold may be uncomfortable or dangerous.
• The amount of time you have available – if you are on a tight schedule, parking further away from the Riverwalk area may not be practical.

Time Restrictions and Limitations on Riverwalk Parking San Antonio

While there are several options for free parking near the Riverwalk area, visitors should be aware that some spots may have time restrictions or limitations. For example, street parking in some areas may only allow free parking for two hours at a time before requiring drivers to move their vehicle.

Tips for Avoiding Time Restrictions on Free Parking Near the Riverwalk:

• Read signs carefully to ensure that you are parked legally and won’t receive a ticket or tow.
• If you need to park for longer than the allotted time limit, consider moving your car to another spot nearby or using paid parking options instead.
• Avoid parking in residential areas where there may be stricter enforcement of time limits and restrictions.

Parking Overnight for Free Near the Riverwalk: Is it Possible?

Visitors looking to park overnight near the Riverwalk area for free will likely face challenges. Most city-owned lots and street parking areas do not allow overnight parking, and those that do may have restrictions or time limits.

Options for Parking Overnight Near the Riverwalk:

• Use private paid parking lots that allow overnight parking.
• Consider staying in a hotel or other accommodations near the Riverwalk area that offer free or discounted parking options for guests.
• Use ride-sharing services or public transportation options to avoid the need for overnight parking altogether.

Safety Concerns to be Aware of When Parking for Free Near the Riverwalk

While there are several options for free parking near the Riverwalk area, visitors should also be aware of potential safety concerns when leaving their vehicle unattended.

Tips for Ensuring Safety When Parking Near the Riverwalk:

• Avoid leaving valuable items in your car where they can be seen by passersby.
• Lock your car doors and windows to prevent theft or vandalism.
• Park in well-lit areas that are visible to others and avoid secluded spots where you may be more vulnerable to crime.

In conclusion, visitors to the Riverwalk in San Antonio can find free parking options available at nearby locations, making it easier and more affordable to explore this iconic destination.

Discovering the Riverwalk in San Antonio: A Popular Destination

The Riverwalk is a popular and scenic destination located in San Antonio, Texas. It is a network of walkways along the banks of the San Antonio River, lined with restaurants, shops, and other attractions. The Riverwalk is a top tourist destination in the city and attracts thousands of visitors each year.

Why Visit the Riverwalk?

The Riverwalk offers something for everyone, whether you are looking to relax and enjoy a peaceful stroll or experience the vibrant atmosphere of bustling restaurants and bars. The area has a rich history dating back to Spanish colonization in the 1700s. Visitors can take guided tours to learn more about this fascinating history.

Top Attractions on the Riverwalk

• The Alamo – One of the most famous landmarks in Texas.
• Mission Trail – A series of historic missions that date back to the 1700s.
• Arneson River Theatre – An outdoor theatre that hosts live performances throughout the year.
• Paseo del Rio Cruise – A boat tour that takes visitors along the river to explore all that it has to offer.

Frequently Asked Questions – Where to Park for Free on the Riverwalk in San Antonio