The Best Time to Visit San Antonio? Right Now, Before Summer Rush Hits

ByCatherine Xu Hours
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Wondering about the best time to visit San Antonio, the capital of Texas and home to the famous Alamo and River Walk?

On my months-long Southwest vanlife trip, I crashed on my friend’s couch in Austin for weeks. So, of course, we had to go to San Antonio.

Even in the middle of winter, the weather was just Texas cold (so not very), but the coolest part was passing by the carolers on the river cruises and the fairy lights all around town. But come summer, ooh la la, heat, humidity, and crowds.

San Antonio’s weather swings from sizzling hot summers to comfortably cool winters, with a sprinkle of rain here and there. So, let’s break down the visitor seasons in San Antonio:

  • Best Season: November to April
  • Peak Season: May to October

Now, let’s dig a bit deeper into what each season looks like and some amazing annual events to go for. Whether you’re popping in for a quick San Antonio day trip or planning an extended exploration, from catching a Spurs game to biking through all the historic missions, these are the prime times to go to San Antonio.

San Antonio, Texas, USA Skyline at dusk from above.

Best Time to Visit San Antonio

Best Time of Year to Visit

Hands down, the best time to visit San Antonio is between November and April. During these months, the weather is just perfect, not too hot, not too cold, which means comfortable afternoons along the River Walk or dining outdoors at the Pearl District. I can attest that all the holiday lights really add to the city, without the heavy crowds or the summer heat.

Best Time for Good Weather

For the absolute best weather in San Antonio, aim to visit in the spring, especially from March to April. During these months, you’ll be treated to mild temperatures averaging between 70Ā°F to 80Ā°F, perfect for meandering through the city’s colorful streets and parks. The weather is just right, not too hot for outdoor adventures and not too chilly at night.

Best Time to Avoid Crowds

To dodge the crowds in San Antonio, late January to early March comes after the holiday rush and just before spring breakers descend on the city.

Cheapest Time to Visit

The cheapest time to go is definitely during mid to late September into October after the summer rush. This is the cheapest month for flights, the prices for hotels and attractions cool down along with the temperature.

cat xu walking along the riverwalk along light lit trees

Worst Time to Visit San Antonio

The worst time to visit San Antonio is smack dab in the middle of summer, from late June to August. The scorching Texas heat during these months is unbearable for someone who isn’t a huge fan of humidity. Plus, this is when tourist spots get packed with summer holidays and vacations.

The Alamo during one of the best time to visit San Antonio, Texas the sunset in the spring

Seasons of San Antonio

Spring (March-May)

Spring in San Antonio is one of the best times to go, with the temperatures hovering around a blissful 70Ā°F to 80Ā°F. The blooming wildflowers paint the Texas Hill Country in bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and evening primroses.

The city’s event calendar kicks into high gear, starting with the famous Fiesta San Antonio, a city-wide party of parades, food, music, and heritage.

Spring marks the ideal time for kayaking along the San Antonio River or hiking in Government Canyon State Natural Area. While not as crowded as summer, popular spots can get busy, especially around Fiesta. Just remember to pack a light jacket for those chillier evenings.

Key Events:

Theatre at the Entrance of La Villita Historic Arts Village

Summer (June-August)

Summer in San Antonio soars into the mid-90s, and with the humidity, it feels like you’re walking through a steam room when outdoors. While the heat might intimidate some, the city doesn’t slow down, it’s actually the busiest time of the year.

During these sweltering months, its famous River Walk is a main attraction, dining al fresco under the stars accompanying your moonlit strolls. And, even in summer, the trees are lit with twinkling lights.

With kids out of school, attractions like Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld San Antonio have extended hours and nighttime shows. Summer is also when the Tejano Conjunto Festival and Juneteenth celebrations turn up the heat with music, food, and cultural showcases.

Key Events:

  • San Antonio Film Festival (July): Independent films, documentaries, and shorts take center stage into diverse feature stories and perspectives.
  • CineFestival (July): This festival is the longest-running Latino film festival in the country with the best in Chicano, Latino, and Indigenous cinema.
Mission San Jose san antonio itinerary must

Fall (September-November)

Temperatures start to dip into the more comfortable 70s and 80s during Fall in San Antonio. Once can finally go outside without the risk of turning into a human popsicle.

Aside from basking in the glorious weather, it’s also packed with events, with everything from art to beer to DĆ­a de los Muertos. Hiking and cycling trails seeing more foot traffic as locals and visitors alike take advantage of the bearable weather. The city’s numerous parks, like Brackenridge Park, become hubs of recreation, full of families enjoying picnics, and friends gathering for BBQs.

And while the rest of the country might be pumpkin-spicing everything, local eateries and breweries roll out seasonal offerings that infuse traditional autumn tastes with a dash of Texas flair, like pumpkin empanadas and pecan-flavored beers.

Key Events:

  • Parktoberfest (September): Celebrate the start of Fall at Brackenridge Park with live music, food trucks, and a variety of beer from local and international breweries.
  • DĆ­a de los Muertos Festival (October): Recognized as one of the best fall festivals, DĆ­a de los Muertos at Hemisfair is a celebration of life and those who’ve passed. Expect altars, traditional music, and a procession that’s both solemn and celebratory.
  • Ford Holiday River Parade (November): The River Walk transforms into a twinkling wonderland during this festive parade with illuminated floats and performances.
  • Light the Way (November): The University of the Incarnate Word kicks off the holiday season with its annual Light the Way event, featuring a mile-long display of over 1 million Christmas lights.
San antonio riverwalk

Winter (December-February)

Winter in San Antonio brings temperatures comfortably between the 40s and 60s, so while you might see the occasional Texan rocking shorts in December, it’s also cool enough to feel like winter.

There’s no need to shovel snow off your driveway, but the city offers its own version of the season, characterized by festive lights, holiday events, and a palpable cheer in the air.

One of the most magical places to be in San Antonio during the winter months is the River Walk. Thousands of twinkling lights reflect off the river’s surface as you stroll along the banks, serenaded by the sounds of carolers and the sights of holiday markets.

A host of events keep the city lively and buzzing, like the Ford Holiday River Parade right after Thanksgiving and the city’s various Christmas markets and fairs,

Key Events:

the alamo in san antonio

San Antonio Weather By Month

This is a detailed month-to-month overview of the average high and low temperatures and rainfall in San Antonio:

MonthAverage HighAverage LowDays of Rain
Jan64Ā°F43Ā°F4.4d
Feb69Ā°F47Ā°F4.3d
Mar75Ā°F54Ā°F5.7d
Apr81Ā°F61Ā°F5.9d
May87Ā°F68Ā°F9.2d
Jun92Ā°F74Ā°F8.2d
Jul95Ā°F75Ā°F5.5d
Aug95Ā°F75Ā°F5.4d
Sep90Ā°F71Ā°F7.2d
Oct82Ā°F62Ā°F6.6d
Nov73Ā°F53Ā°F5.0d
Dec65Ā°F46Ā°F4.3d
(Source: weatherspark.com)

Before you Close That Tab…Where to Next in Texas?

I’ve stayed with friends and vanlifed around, about, and through much of Texas. If you’re looking for more information on the Lone Star State, check out these other destination itineraries.

MY FAVORITE TRAVEL RESOURCES

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Writer

Catherine, a seasoned travel writer, has lived in 4 different states and explored 36 states and 28 national parks. After spending two years embracing van life, she's now dedicated to sharing her vast knowledge of day trips across America. Catherine's other works has been referenced in major publications like MSN, Self, and TripSavvy.