How to Get Around San Antonio Without a Car

San Antonio, Texas, is a vibrant city rich in history, culture, and culinary delights. From the iconic River Walk to the Alamo, from vibrant neighborhoods like the Pearl District to world-class museums and outdoor parks, there’s no shortage of things to explore. Yet, many visitors and even some residents assume that owning a car is the only way to navigate the city. That’s a misconception. With thoughtful planning and an understanding of the city’s evolving transportation infrastructure, getting around San Antonio without a car is not only possible—it can be convenient, affordable, and even enjoyable.

This guide provides a comprehensive, step-by-step roadmap for navigating San Antonio using public transit, ride-sharing, biking, walking, and other sustainable mobility options. Whether you’re a tourist planning your first visit, a new resident relocating without a vehicle, or an eco-conscious local seeking to reduce your carbon footprint, this guide equips you with the knowledge and tools to move through the city confidently—no keys required.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Understand San Antonio’s Public Transit System: VIA Metropolitan Transit

The backbone of car-free travel in San Antonio is VIA Metropolitan Transit, the city’s public bus system. Operated since 1978, VIA serves over 100 routes across Bexar County, connecting downtown, major employment centers, universities, shopping districts, and residential neighborhoods.

To begin, download the VIA Mobile App (available on iOS and Android). This is your essential tool for real-time bus tracking, route planning, fare payment, and service alerts. The app integrates with Google Maps for seamless navigation, but VIA’s own system is often more accurate for local bus schedules.

Plan your route by entering your origin and destination into the app. VIA routes are color-coded and numbered, with key corridors like the 100, 102, 104, 105, and 106 serving the River Walk, downtown, and the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA). The 150 route connects the San Antonio International Airport to downtown in under 30 minutes.

Onboard, you’ll find free Wi-Fi on most buses, USB charging ports, and ADA-compliant accessibility features. Buses arrive every 15–30 minutes during peak hours and every 30–60 minutes during off-peak times. Always check the app for real-time updates—delays can occur due to traffic or events.

2. Purchase and Use Transit Passes Efficiently

VIA offers multiple fare options to suit different travel needs:

• Single Ride: $1.25 (cash or app payment)
• Day Pass: $3.50—unlimited rides for 24 hours
• 7-Day Pass: $15—ideal for tourists staying a week
• 30-Day Pass: $45—best for residents or long-term visitors

Children under 5 ride free. Seniors (65+), Medicare cardholders, and persons with disabilities receive discounted fares with proper ID. Students at participating institutions can often access reduced or free passes through their schools.

Use the VIA app to purchase and store digital passes. Tap your phone at the reader when boarding—no need to carry cash. Avoid the $0.50 fee for cash payments by pre-loading your pass. If you’re visiting for multiple days, buy a 7-day pass on day one. It pays for itself after just three rides.

3. Utilize the San Antonio River Walk as a Pedestrian Corridor

One of the most unique advantages of navigating San Antonio without a car is the River Walk—a 15-mile network of walkways along the San Antonio River, winding through the heart of downtown. It’s not just a scenic attraction; it’s a functional transportation corridor.

The River Walk connects key destinations: the Alamo, the San Antonio Museum of Art, the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center, the Shops at Rivercenter, and the Pearl District. Many hotels, restaurants, and cultural venues are within a 10–15 minute walk of each other along this path.

Use the River Walk as your primary walking route between downtown attractions. It’s safe, well-lit, and marked with clear signage. At night, the area is patrolled and bustling with activity, making it ideal for evening strolls. Avoid side streets with limited pedestrian infrastructure—stick to the River Walk and its connecting sidewalks.

Pro tip: The River Walk has multiple access points. Use the “River Walk Entrance” markers on Google Maps to find stairs, ramps, or elevators that lead down from street level. Many hotels, including the Marriott Rivercenter and the Westin, have direct access.

4. Leverage Ride-Sharing and Micro-Mobility Options

Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft operate extensively throughout San Antonio. They’re especially useful for late-night travel, trips to areas with limited bus service, or when carrying heavy luggage.

For short trips under 2 miles, consider micro-mobility options:

• Bike-Sharing: San Antonio has a public bike-share program called San Antonio B-cycle. Stations are located near the River Walk, downtown, and UTSA. A single ride costs $3.50, or you can purchase a day pass for $10. Helmets are available at stations, and the bikes have adjustable seats and front baskets.
• E-scooters: Companies like Lime, Bolt, and Spin operate electric scooters citywide. Download their apps, scan a QR code on the scooter, and ride. Speed limits are enforced via GPS, and designated parking zones prevent sidewalk clutter. Rides typically cost $1 to unlock plus $0.30–$0.40 per minute.

Always follow local rules: ride in bike lanes where available, avoid sidewalks, and park scooters upright in designated zones. Never ride under the influence or while using headphones.

5. Plan for the Airport and Long-Distance Travel

Getting to and from San Antonio International Airport (SAT) without a car is straightforward. VIA Route 150 runs every 20–30 minutes from 4:30 a.m. to midnight, connecting the airport to downtown and the Medical Center. The fare is $1.25 per ride. The trip takes about 25 minutes, and luggage racks are available.

For travelers arriving late at night, Uber and Lyft are available 24/7 at the airport’s designated pickup zones. Taxis are also an option but cost significantly more—expect $25–$40 to downtown.

If you’re traveling beyond San Antonio, Greyhound and FlixBus offer services from the San Antonio Bus Station (300 N. St. Mary’s St.). Both connect to Austin, Houston, Dallas, and other major cities. Tickets can be purchased online and printed or shown on your phone. The station is accessible via VIA Route 104 and 105.

6. Walk Smart: Know the Walkable Neighborhoods

San Antonio has several highly walkable neighborhoods where you can live, dine, and explore entirely on foot:

• Downtown: The core of the city, packed with attractions, restaurants, and hotels. Everything from the Alamo to the Tower of the Americas is within a 2-mile radius.
• The Pearl: A former brewery turned mixed-use district with boutique shops, farm-to-table restaurants, and the San Antonio Farmers Market. Walkable from downtown via the River Walk or Route 106.
• Southtown: An artsy neighborhood with galleries, vintage stores, and cozy cafes. Connected to downtown by Route 104 and a 15-minute bike ride.
• Alamo Heights: Upscale, tree-lined streets with independent boutiques and cafés. While slightly more spread out, it’s accessible via Route 108 and 109.
• La Villita: A historic arts village just steps from the Alamo. Ideal for evening strolls and cultural events.

Use the City of San Antonio’s Walk Score tool (walkscore.com) to evaluate any neighborhood’s walkability. Scores above 70 are considered “walker’s paradise.” Most of downtown and the River Walk area score above 90.

7. Navigate University Campuses Without a Car

San Antonio is home to several major educational institutions, including UTSA, Our Lady of the Lake University (OLLU), and the University of the Incarnate Word (UIW). All are well-connected by public transit.

UTSA’s Main Campus is served by VIA Routes 106, 114, and 117. The Campus Transit Center is a hub with shelters, seating, and real-time displays. Students can ride for free with a valid ID. The campus also offers a free internal shuttle system called “UTSA Shuttle” that connects parking lots, academic buildings, and dining halls.

OLLU and UIW are served by Route 108 and 109. Both universities are located in residential areas with sidewalks and crosswalks. Many students bike or walk to class—especially at OLLU, where the campus is compact and pedestrian-friendly.

8. Plan for Weather and Seasonal Challenges

San Antonio’s climate can impact travel. Summers are hot and humid, with temperatures frequently exceeding 95°F. Winters are mild, but occasional cold fronts bring chilly mornings.

Travel tips by season:

• Summer: Start your day early. Avoid midday walking between 11 a.m. and 3 p.m. Carry water, wear a hat, and use sunscreen. Take advantage of air-conditioned transit and indoor attractions. Use ride-sharing for longer trips.
• Winter: Mornings can be cool (40s–50s°F). Layer clothing. Buses and scooters are reliable, but sidewalks may be slick after rare freezes. Avoid biking in rain—roads become hazardous.
• Rainy Season (Spring/Summer): Thunderstorms are common. Check the weather app before heading out. VIA buses are equipped with rain covers and operate in light rain. Scooters and bikes are not recommended during heavy downpours.

Best Practices

1. Always Have a Backup Plan

Public transit schedules can change due to events, construction, or weather. Always have at least two options for getting from point A to point B. For example, if you’re relying on Route 104 to reach the Pearl, know that Uber is a reliable alternative if the bus is delayed. Keep the VIA app open and check for alerts before leaving your hotel or home.

2. Travel Light

Carrying heavy bags on buses, scooters, or while walking can be cumbersome. Pack only what you need. Use backpacks instead of suitcases. Many hotels offer luggage storage if you arrive early or depart late. The River Walk has numerous benches and shaded areas where you can rest your belongings.

3. Use Apps in Combination

Don’t rely on just one app. Use VIA for transit, Google Maps for walking directions, Uber/Lyft for on-demand rides, and B-cycle or Lime for short hops. Google Maps integrates VIA schedules and real-time bus locations, making it a powerful hybrid tool. For complex multi-modal trips (e.g., bus + bike), use Transit App, which is optimized for urban mobility.

4. Stay Aware of Your Surroundings

San Antonio is generally safe, but like any city, vigilance is key. Avoid walking alone late at night in unfamiliar areas. Stick to well-lit, populated routes like the River Walk. Keep valuables secure—don’t leave phones or wallets visible in pockets. If using a scooter, lock it properly and never leave it unattended.

5. Learn Basic Spanish Phrases

While English is widely spoken, many residents are bilingual. Learning simple phrases like “¿Dónde está el autobús?” (Where is the bus?) or “Gracias” (Thank you) can enhance your experience and foster goodwill with locals. VIA’s app and printed schedules are in English, but signage at bus stops often includes Spanish.

6. Time Your Trips to Avoid Rush Hour

Peak hours on VIA buses are 7–9 a.m. and 4–6 p.m. on weekdays. If you’re not in a hurry, travel mid-morning or early evening. Buses are less crowded, and you’re more likely to get a seat. Weekends offer more relaxed schedules, making them ideal for sightseeing.

7. Take Advantage of Free Attractions and Events

Many of San Antonio’s best experiences are free and located within walkable distances: the Alamo, San Antonio Missions National Historical Park (accessible via Route 117), the San Antonio Public Library Central Branch, and the San Antonio Botanical Garden (free on the first Sunday of the month). Plan your itinerary around these to minimize transit costs.

8. Engage with the Community

Join local Facebook groups like “San Antonio Transit Riders” or “No Car San Antonio” for real-time advice, route tips, and event updates. Locals often share hidden gems—like a shortcut through a park or a new bike lane—that aren’t on official maps.

Tools and Resources

Essential Apps

• VIA Metropolitan Transit App: Real-time tracking, digital passes, service alerts, and route planning.
• Google Maps: Integrates transit, walking, biking, and ride-share options. Best for multi-modal planning.
• Transit App: Clean interface for urban transit systems. Excellent for first-time users.
• Uber / Lyft: On-demand rides. Use for late-night travel or when buses are infrequent.
• Lime / Spin / Bolt: E-scooter rentals. Look for free ride credits during promotions.
• San Antonio B-cycle: Bike-share app with station maps and ride history.
• Weather Channel App: Critical for planning outdoor travel in extreme heat or rain.

Online Resources

• VIA’s Official Website (viatransit.org): Full route maps, schedules, fare details, and service advisories.
• City of San Antonio Mobility Plan (sanantonio.gov/mobility): Long-term strategy for pedestrian, bike, and transit improvements.
• San Antonio River Walk Map (sanantonio.gov/riverwalk): Interactive map with access points, restrooms, and attractions.
• Walk Score (walkscore.com): Evaluates walkability of any address in the city.
• San Antonio Convention & Visitors Bureau (visitSanantonio.com): Free downloadable guides for car-free visitors.

Physical Resources

Visit the VIA Customer Service Center at 123 S. Santa Rosa Ave. (open 8 a.m.–5 p.m., Mon–Fri) for printed maps, fare cards, and personalized trip planning. Many hotels and visitor centers also stock free transit maps. The San Antonio Public Library offers free public Wi-Fi and computer access to help you plan routes.

Accessibility Tools

VIA offers paratransit service for riders with disabilities through its VIA Access program. Eligible riders can schedule door-to-door trips 24 hours in advance. All buses are wheelchair accessible, with ramps and securement areas. Audio and visual stop announcements are standard.

Real Examples

Example 1: A Tourist’s 3-Day Itinerary Without a Car

Day 1 – Downtown & River Walk

Arrive at SAT Airport via VIA Route 150 ($1.25). Check into hotel near Rivercenter Mall. Walk to the Alamo (15 min). Lunch at La Fonda on Main. Afternoon: Explore the San Antonio Museum of Art (free admission on Thursdays). Evening: Dinner at Mi Tierra Café y Panadería, then stroll the River Walk lights.

Day 2 – Pearl District & Southtown

Take VIA Route 106 to the Pearl (15 min). Tour the historic brewery, shop at the farmers market, and grab coffee at Boudro’s. Walk or bike to Southtown (10 min). Visit art galleries and the Blue Star Contemporary Art Center. Dinner at The Esquire Tavern. Return via Route 104.

Day 3 – Missions & Botanical Garden

Take Route 117 to Mission San José (25 min). Explore the mission grounds and museum. Walk to Mission Concepción (next stop). Return to downtown via Route 105. Afternoon: Visit the San Antonio Botanical Garden (free on Sunday). Evening: Sunset drink at the Hotel Emma rooftop.

Example 2: A Student’s Daily Routine at UTSA

Maria, a sophomore at UTSA, lives in the Southside on Lamar neighborhood. She doesn’t own a car.

• 7:15 a.m.: Walks 10 minutes to the VIA stop on South Padre Island Drive.
• 7:40 a.m.: Takes Route 114 to UTSA Main Campus.
• 8:00 a.m.–3:00 p.m.: Classes and study in the library.
• 3:30 p.m.: Uses the UTSA Shuttle to reach the campus gym.
• 5:00 p.m.: Rides the B-cycle to a café near the campus.
• 6:30 p.m.: Takes Route 106 back home.

Her monthly transit cost: $45 (30-day pass). She saves over $300/month compared to owning a car.

Example 3: A Family Visit to the Zoo and Natural Bridge Caverns

The Garcia family visits San Antonio with two children. They stay downtown and want to visit the San Antonio Zoo and Natural Bridge Caverns.

The zoo is accessible via VIA Route 103 from downtown (30 min). Tickets are $18/adult, $12/child. They take the bus, enjoy the day, and return via the same route.

Natural Bridge Caverns is farther out (12 miles north). VIA doesn’t serve it directly. They book a round-trip Uber ($45 total) for a half-day excursion. The driver waits while they tour the caverns. They return before sunset.

By combining transit with one strategic ride-share, they avoid parking fees, gas, and rental costs—saving over $150.

FAQs

Is it safe to walk around San Antonio at night without a car?

Yes, in well-trafficked areas like the River Walk, downtown, the Pearl, and Southtown. These areas are well-lit, patrolled, and bustling with visitors and residents. Avoid isolated streets or industrial zones after dark. Use ride-sharing if you’re unsure of your route.

Can I use my phone to pay for the bus?

Yes. The VIA Mobile App allows you to purchase and activate digital passes. You can also use contactless payment (Apple Pay, Google Pay) at fare readers on newer buses. Cash is accepted but costs more due to a $0.50 surcharge.

Are bikes allowed on VIA buses?

Yes. All VIA buses have front-mounted bike racks that hold two bikes. Load your bike before boarding and secure it with the provided arms. Bikes are free to carry.

How reliable is public transit on weekends?

VIA operates on a reduced weekend schedule. Buses run every 30–60 minutes instead of every 15–30. Plan ahead using the app. Some routes, like the 100 and 106, maintain frequent service on Saturdays.

Can I bring a stroller or large suitcase on the bus?

Yes. VIA buses are designed for accessibility. Strollers and luggage can be stored in the aisle as long as they don’t block exits or seats. Drivers can assist with ramps and securement.

Is there a bike trail connecting downtown to the airport?

No direct trail exists, but you can bike via the San Antonio River Trail and the East Side Trail, which connect to the airport’s perimeter roads. It’s a 6-mile ride—recommended only for experienced cyclists. Use Uber for convenience.

Do any attractions offer free shuttles?

Yes. The San Antonio Missions National Historical Park offers a free shuttle between the four missions on weekends. The San Antonio Zoo runs a free tram inside the park. Many hotels offer free shuttles to the River Walk or downtown.

What if I need to travel to a suburb like New Braunfels or Kerrville?

Use FlixBus or Greyhound from the San Antonio Bus Station. Trips to New Braunfels take about 45 minutes and cost under $20. For Kerrville, plan a longer trip—about 1.5 hours. Consider booking a ride-share for the final leg if your destination isn’t near the station.

Are there any car-free events or festivals in San Antonio?

Yes. The San Antonio River Walk hosts the annual “No Car Day” festival in April, featuring live music, food trucks, and bike parades. The Pearl District holds monthly “No Car Nights” with extended hours and free shuttles. Check visitSanantonio.com for event calendars.

Can I use a mobility scooter on public transit?

Yes. VIA buses accommodate mobility scooters and wheelchairs. Call VIA Access in advance if you need assistance boarding or require a specific vehicle type. All stations have ramps and level boarding.

Conclusion

Getting around San Antonio without a car isn’t just feasible—it’s a rewarding way to experience the city’s soul. The River Walk, the walkable neighborhoods, the affordable transit system, and the growing network of bike and scooter options create a transportation ecosystem that rivals many larger cities. You don’t need a vehicle to discover the Alamo’s history, savor Tex-Mex on the River Walk, or bike through the lush greenery of the Pearl District.

By mastering the VIA app, planning your routes with Google Maps, and embracing the rhythm of pedestrian and public transit travel, you’ll not only save money and reduce your environmental impact—you’ll connect more deeply with the city and its people. San Antonio is designed for exploration on foot and by transit. All you need is curiosity, a charged phone, and the willingness to wander.

So leave the car behind. Lace up your shoes, grab your transit pass, and step into the heart of one of America’s most vibrant urban landscapes—no keys required.