San Antonio to spring breakers: Have a plan for parking, traffic
Spring break season has arrived, and San Antonio is preparing to welcome thousands of visitors as students set aside their textbooks for the annual break.
Most Texas schools are taking spring break March 11-15, and city officials say they expect the weekend of March 16-17 to be especially busy. Residents and visitors alike are encouraged to plan ahead and arrive early to downtown events to avoid disruptions related to traffic, construction projects and parking.
Visitors should consider ride-sharing, biking, walking or using public transportation or apps like Waze or Google Maps that provide updates on traffic, a news release from the city says.
Those who choose to drive should have a plan for where they’ll park, the city says. There are a variety of garages and lots downtown including the St. Mary’s Garage at 205 E. Travis St. and the City Tower Garage at 117 W. Commerce St. A map of city-owned garages and lots is available on the city’s Sapark website.
Parking event rates will be in effect at most parking facilities through March 17, but the city offers free downtown parking on Tuesdays.
The San Antonio Zoo also is anticipating floods of visitors to its Jungle Boogie Break event, which kicked off Saturday with extended hours of music, special treats and up close and personal visits with zoo animals.
To relieve backups created by zoo guests, a one-way traffic loop will be in place on North St. Mary’s Street from Hildebrand Avenue to Mulberry Avenue from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. through March 17. It will be accessible from Hildebrand Avenue, Stadium Drive, Devine Street and Mulberry Avenue.
If you’re willing to brave the crowds, there will be a wide range of family-friendly events and activities happening across the city. Seaworld San Antonio and Six Flags Fiesta Texas, for example, will both offer extended hours for the break.
Looking to escape the warm weather and make a splash? Aquatica San Antonio Waterpark has reopened and will stay open daily from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. until March 17. The city also has opened its seven splash pads for the season for youngsters to enjoy.