Central Library (Enchilada Red) - a large red building with a lot of windows
1 / 10

Central Library (Enchilada Red)

4.5
·495 reviews·San Antonio, United States

San Antonio's iconic 'Enchilada Red' library, a stunning architectural gem and cultural hub offering free resources and a cinematic backdrop.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter atmosphere for exploring

CrowdLow
Loading map...
Central Library (Enchilada Red) - a large red building with a lot of windows

Central Library (Enchilada Red)

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Quieter atmosphere for exploring

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

San Antonio's iconic 'Enchilada Red' library, a stunning architectural gem and cultural hub offering free resources and a cinematic backdrop.

4.5
(495 reviews)

"Wow! Breathtaking! First time actually walking through this beautiful library today. Very very nice facility."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 Free Parking Hack

Get up to 3 hours of FREE parking in the attached garage with validation. :parking:

🎬 Borrow Movies for Free

Use your library card to download movies for free via apps. No late fees! :movie_camera:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The 'Enchilada Red' Architecture

The 'Enchilada Red' Architecture

A striking, bold red building designed by Ricardo Legorreta, an icon of modern San Antonio.

Selena Movie Location

Selena Movie Location

Spot the library's exterior, which doubled as a Mexican setting in the iconic 1997 film 'Selena'.

Spacious & Art-Filled Interior

Spacious & Art-Filled Interior

Explore vast aisles of books, admire sculptures, and enjoy the calm, cool atmosphere.

Dedicated Teen & Kids Zones

Dedicated Teen & Kids Zones

Well-organized, teen-friendly spaces and a large, engaging children's area for all ages.

Your AI travel agent

Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you

Start Chatting

Planning Your Visit

Embrace the 'Enchilada Red'

This iconic building, nicknamed the 'Enchilada Red' for its vibrant hue, is a must-see. Designed by renowned architect Ricardo Legorreta, its unique architecture is a draw in itself. Don't miss its cameo in the movie 'Selena'!

Parking Perks & Freebies

Downtown parking can be pricey, but the Central Library offers free parking validation for up to 3 hours. Plus, library cardholders can access free movie downloads and digital subscriptions, saving you money.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Quieter atmosphere for exploring
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoons
Why
Kids' areas are lively
Crowd
Medium
When
Event days
Why
Family fun and activities
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

How to save $1,500 per year with your NYPL library card #movingtonyc #nyclife #nyctips
@ashleyyyynyc
104.6K likes • 847.9K views

🚗 Free Parking Hack

Get up to 3 hours of FREE parking in the attached garage with validation. :parking: Reddit

🎬 Borrow Movies for Free

Use your library card to download movies for free via apps. No late fees! :movie_camera: Reddit

Seoul like a local! 🚨 Skip the Starfield Library and overpriced tourist traps like Myeongdong. Visit Namdaemun Market for authentic eats and bundle tickets to save big! 🎟️✨ #koreatravel #seoulguide #koreatips #travelkorea #seoulbucketlist #korealocal
@klook_usa
66.5K likes • 1.1M views
📍THE BIG ENCHILADA SA CENTRAL LIBRARY -San Antonio’s Central Library—aka the “Enchilada Red” building—was featured in the Selena movie! Designed by legendary Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, the bold red building opened in 1995 and became a downtown icon. That colorful, modern look? It doubled as a spot in Mexico during scenes in the 1997 film starring Jennifer Lopez. Inside you’ll find th...
hibred_creative
29 likes • 705 views

📚 Digital Subscriptions

Access free online NYT, WSJ, and more with your library card. :newspaper: TikTok

🎨 Admire the Art

The building itself is a work of art, featuring sculptures and unique design. :art: Reddit

reddit.com

Have you been to the San Antonio (downtown) public library lately?

Tips

from all over the internet

🚗 Free Parking Hack

Get up to 3 hours of FREE parking in the attached garage with validation. :parking: Reddit

🎬 Borrow Movies for Free

Use your library card to download movies for free via apps. No late fees! :movie_camera: Reddit

📚 Digital Subscriptions

Access free online NYT, WSJ, and more with your library card. :newspaper: TikTok

🎨 Admire the Art

The building itself is a work of art, featuring sculptures and unique design. :art: Reddit

🧸 Kid-Friendly Fun

The 3rd-floor kids' section is fantastic for burning energy. :child: Reddit

What Travellers Say

4.5
(495 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors consistently praise the San Antonio Central Library for its stunning 'Enchilada Red' architecture and the wealth of free resources it offers. Many highlight the spacious, art-filled interior and the excellent, well-organized children's and teen sections. The convenience of free parking validation and access to digital media further enhances the positive experience.

"4/18/25~ I came to make library copies. I was able to make copies, get a badge Library for free, and alot more. Thank you to all the helpful workers there. Absolutely love the artwork, sculptures, scenery, calmness, and relaxation."

Mz. CBreezy

"Very nice library. The kids section on 3F is very good for children to burn off their extra energy."

Dorothy Low

"I walked through and looked at all of the art work first which was all very nice. I also liked how spacious the isles were for all of the books, music, and dvds. Seemed very quiet and had plenty of room to sit. Looks like most parking is paid parking in the area, but there seems to be a way to validate your parking. Added bonus the library was nice and cool inside as well."

Casey stanley

What People Like

Stunning architecture
Free parking validation
Vast digital resources

What People Dislike

Limited food options inside

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Central Library is located downtown at 600 Soledad Street. It's easily accessible by car, public transport, or even a pleasant walk if you're staying nearby. Many visitors find it convenient to drive and utilize the attached parking garage. Reddit

Yes, there is an attached parking garage. You can get up to 3 hours of free parking with validation, which is a great perk for downtown San Antonio. Reddit

Absolutely! San Antonio's VIA Metropolitan Transit bus routes serve the downtown area, with stops conveniently located near the Central Library. Check the VIA website for specific route information. :bus:

The library is designed to be accessible, with ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms to accommodate visitors with mobility needs. :wheelchair:

Library hours can vary, so it's always best to check the official San Antonio Public Library website for the most up-to-date information on opening and closing times. :clock:

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

No, entry to the Central Library is free for everyone. You don't need a ticket to explore the building and its public spaces. :ticket:

You can get a San Antonio Public Library card for free if you are a resident of Bexar County. Bring a valid ID and proof of address to any branch. :id_card:

A library card unlocks a world of benefits, including free access to digital resources like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, movie downloads, and much more. TikTokReddit

Yes, the library hosts a variety of events, workshops, and activities for all ages, from children's story times to author talks. Check their events calendar online. :calendar:

Yes, the library offers free computer access and Wi-Fi for visitors. You may need a library card to log in to the computers. :computer:

🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience

Beyond books, you can admire the striking 'Enchilada Red' architecture, explore art installations, find quiet reading nooks, and enjoy the spacious, cool interior. Reddit

Absolutely! The 3rd-floor children's section is large, well-organized, and a great place for kids to explore and have fun. Reddit

Yes, the library has a teen space designed to be teen-friendly, offering a comfortable area for them to read, study, or relax. Reddit

Certainly! Many visitors enjoy simply walking through the beautiful building, appreciating the art and the unique design. It's a great way to spend an hour or two. Reddit

Yes, the library offers plenty of space to find a quiet spot to read, study, or work, with a calm and relaxing atmosphere. Reddit

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

Currently, there are no cafes or restaurants directly within the Central Library. However, numerous dining options are available in the surrounding downtown area. :forkandknife:

Generally, it's best to consume food and drinks in designated areas, if available, or outside the library to maintain the cleanliness and preservation of library materials. Check with staff for specific policies. :water_wave:

The downtown San Antonio area surrounding the library is packed with diverse eateries, from casual cafes to upscale restaurants. You'll find plenty of choices within a short walking distance. :map:

📸 📸 Photography

Photography for personal use is generally permitted, especially to capture the unique architecture. However, flash photography might be restricted in certain areas, and commercial photography usually requires prior permission. Always be respectful of other patrons. :camerawithflash:

The exterior 'Enchilada Red' facade is a prime photo opportunity. Inside, the grand atrium, the colorful architectural elements, and the vast book stacks offer visually stunning backdrops. Instagram

Yes, you can typically photograph the art installations for personal enjoyment. If you plan to use them for commercial purposes, reach out to the library for guidelines. :art:

Drone photography is generally not permitted inside public buildings like libraries due to safety and privacy concerns. :drone:

Visitors often capture the vibrant red exterior, the modern interior design, and the impressive scale of the bookshelves. It's a popular spot for architectural and lifestyle photography. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Central Library is a fantastic destination for families. The 3rd-floor children's section is a highlight, described as large, well-organized, and perfect for kids to explore and burn off energy. Reddit Beyond the dedicated kids' area, the library often hosts family-friendly events and activities, making it a fun and engaging outing. Remember to check their event calendar for special programming. The availability of free parking validation also makes a downtown visit much more manageable for families. :family_amp:

💰 Budget Travelers

This library is a goldmine for budget-conscious travelers. Entry is completely free, and you can enjoy the architecture and atmosphere without spending a dime. The real savings come with your library card: free access to digital newspapers and magazines like The New York Times can save you hundreds annually. TikTok Plus, borrowing movies for free eliminates the need for costly streaming subscriptions or rentals. Don't forget the free parking validation for up to 3 hours, a significant perk in downtown San Antonio. :dollar:

📚 Book Lovers & Students

For bibliophiles and students, the Central Library offers a serene and expansive environment. You'll find spacious aisles filled with a diverse collection of books, music, and DVDs. Reddit The library provides ample quiet spaces for reading, studying, and research, making it an ideal spot to immerse yourself in literature or focus on academic work. The free Wi-Fi and computer access further enhance its utility for students and remote workers. :books:

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel: 'Enchilada Red'

The San Antonio Central Library is instantly recognizable by its bold, vibrant red exterior, earning it the affectionate nickname 'Enchilada Red.' This striking design is the work of renowned Mexican architect Ricardo Legorreta, known for his use of color and geometric forms. Opened in 1995, the building was conceived as a landmark that would serve as a cultural hub for the city. Its unique aesthetic, characterized by large planes of color and dramatic shadows, makes it a standout piece of modern architecture in downtown San Antonio. Instagram

Legorreta's design aimed to create a welcoming and inspiring space. The building's interior complements its exterior with spacious, light-filled areas and thoughtful integration of art. Visitors often remark on the calmness and relaxation the atmosphere provides, making it more than just a place for books, but a destination in itself. The library's design has been praised for its ability to be both monumental and inviting, a true testament to Legorreta's vision. Reddit

Beyond Books: Digital Resources and Savings

Your San Antonio Central Library card is a golden ticket to a wealth of digital resources that can save you money. Beyond borrowing physical books, music, and DVDs, cardholders gain access to a vast array of online content. This includes free digital subscriptions to major publications like The New York Times, The Wall Street Journal, and The New Yorker, which can easily cost over $100 per month if subscribed to individually. TikTok

Furthermore, the library offers services like free movie downloads through various apps. This means you can enjoy the latest blockbusters or classic films without the cost of streaming services or rentals, and without the worry of late fees. Reddit These digital perks transform the library from a quiet repository of books into a dynamic resource center for entertainment, education, and information, offering significant value to its members. :moneywithwings:

A Cinematic Cameo: The 'Selena' Connection

For fans of the iconic singer Selena Quintanilla-Pérez, the San Antonio Central Library holds a special significance. The building's distinctive 'Enchilada Red' exterior was featured in the critically acclaimed 1997 biopic, 'Selena.' In the film, the library's facade served as a stand-in for locations in Mexico, adding to its cinematic appeal. Instagram

This connection has made the library a point of interest for visitors and film buffs alike. While the movie scenes were filmed externally, the association with such a beloved film adds another layer of cultural importance to this already significant architectural landmark. It’s a subtle nod to San Antonio’s vibrant cultural landscape and its role in telling compelling stories. :movie_camera:

You may also like

1 of 2