San Antonio Museum of Art
Explore global art from ancient civilizations to contemporary masterpieces in a former brewery on the Riverwalk.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Free admission for Bexar residents
San Antonio Museum of Art
Best Time
Free admission for Bexar residents
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore global art from ancient civilizations to contemporary masterpieces in a former brewery on the Riverwalk.
"A beautiful place with well-curated pieces from thousands of years ago up to the present."
🎯 Free Admission Days
Check for free days, especially Tuesdays for Bexar residents. Arrive early! :ticket:
🚶♀️ Riverwalk Entrance
Use the Riverwalk entrance for a scenic approach. :walking:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Ancient World Collections
Multiple floors
Explore Egyptian, Greek, and Roman artifacts spanning millennia. A journey through history.
Latin American Art
Dedicated galleries
Discover vibrant art from Mesoamerica and beyond, showcasing rich cultural heritage.
Contemporary Art
Modern galleries
Engage with thought-provoking modern and contemporary pieces from diverse artists.
Amalia Mesa-Bains Retrospective
Special exhibition space
Experience the influential works of Chicana artist Amalia Mesa-Bains.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Free Admission Days
Parking & Riverwalk Access
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Free Admission Days
Check for free days, especially Tuesdays for Bexar residents. Arrive early! :ticket:
🚶♀️ Riverwalk Entrance
Use the Riverwalk entrance for a scenic approach. :walking:
🚗 Paid Parking Available
A paid lot is across the street ($8-10). Street parking also an option. :car:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 2.5-4 hours to explore all floors and collections. :clock:
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Free Admission Days
Check for free days, especially Tuesdays for Bexar residents. Arrive early! :ticket:
🚶♀️ Riverwalk Entrance
Use the Riverwalk entrance for a scenic approach. :walking:
🚗 Paid Parking Available
A paid lot is across the street ($8-10). Street parking also an option. :car:
⏳ Allow Ample Time
Plan for 2.5-4 hours to explore all floors and collections. :clock:
📸 Photo Opportunities
Capture stunning art and architecture. Some exhibits may have restrictions. :camerawithflash:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the San Antonio Museum of Art for its diverse and well-curated collections, spanning ancient to contemporary art from around the globe. The beautiful building and convenient Riverwalk access are frequently highlighted, making it a relaxing and enriching experience, especially on free admission days. Some note the paid parking and the potential for crowds on free days.
"The San Antonio Museum of Art is a wonderful place to spend a few hours (maybe half a day). The collection is diverse, with art from all over the world and different time periods. The layout makes it easy to explore and appreciate each section at a comfortable pace. I enjoyed seeing both the ancient pieces and the more modern works. The building itself is beautiful and adds to the experience. It is a great spot for anyone who enjoys art and culture."
Myles Joshua Tan
"A cool place to visit on a hot summer day. It houses collections from ancient Egypt to China, as well as some contemporary art. The place is not crowded, and you can come with a city pass. It’s close to the river walk, providing a quiet and relaxing experience."
Wei Yang
"What a beautiful place! My husband and I came here on a Tuesday afternoon. We got tickets for one of their two times for Bexar county residents to come free, which I would recommend if you are also a resident. I want to note here that the parking lot beside the museum is a paid lot. It was about $8 for a four-hour slot when we came, which was plenty of time to get through the whole building. It took us about two and a half hours to go through all of the sections, and we enjoyed every bit of it! It took us about two and a half hours to go through all of the sections, but we enjoyed every bit of it! The pieces at the museum are very well curated and displayed, and each section is distinct in its specific period and art style. I took a few photos of some of my favorite pieces. It was so fascinating to see art from thousands of years ago all the way up to the present! We talked about the art the entire ride home. If you’re looking for a beautiful way to spend part of your day, look no further than this spot!"
Calypso Carlile
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The museum is accessible by car, with paid parking available across the street. It also has an entrance directly on the Riverwalk, making it easy to reach if you're exploring downtown. Public transportation options are also available.
Yes, there is a paid parking lot directly across the street from the museum, typically costing around $8-10 for a few hours. Street parking may also be available nearby.
Absolutely! The San Antonio Museum of Art has a convenient entrance directly on the Riverwalk, making it a perfect addition to a scenic stroll.
Many visitors opt for a leisurely walk along the Riverwalk, while others use ride-sharing services or drive and utilize the nearby paid parking.
Yes, its prominent location near the Riverwalk and its distinctive architecture make it easy to spot. Look for signs directing you from the Riverwalk or main roads.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Museum hours typically vary, but it's generally open Tuesday through Sunday. It's always best to check their official website for the most up-to-date hours and any special holiday closures.
General admission fees apply, but the museum offers free admission days, particularly on Tuesdays for Bexar County residents. It's advisable to verify these free days and any residency requirements on their website.
Yes, the San Antonio Museum of Art often has free admission days, especially for Bexar County residents on Tuesdays. These can be popular, so plan accordingly.
It's highly recommended to purchase tickets online in advance, especially if you plan to visit during peak times or free admission days, to ensure entry and save time.
Some reviews mention that students may receive free admission. It's best to check the museum's official policy or bring your student ID to inquire upon arrival.
🎫 🏛️ Onsite Experience
The museum boasts a diverse collection, including ancient Egyptian, Greek, and Roman art, as well as extensive Latin American art, Asian art, European paintings, and contemporary works.
Most visitors spend around 2.5 to 4 hours to fully explore the museum's four floors and various collections.
Yes, the museum offers a wide range of exhibits that can appeal to all ages, from ancient artifacts to more modern installations.
The museum frequently hosts temporary exhibitions, such as the influential Chicana artist Amalia Mesa-Bains retrospective. Check their website for current special exhibitions.
Photography is generally allowed for personal use in most galleries, but it's always a good idea to check for any specific restrictions on certain artworks or exhibitions.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the museum features an Italian Trattoria, Tre Trattoria, which offers dining with views overlooking the Riverwalk.
Besides the onsite Trattoria, there are several restaurants and cafes nearby along the Riverwalk and in the surrounding downtown area, including sushi and burger joints.
Typically, outside food and drinks are not permitted inside the museum galleries. It's best to enjoy your meals at the onsite restaurant or in designated areas.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography for personal use is generally permitted in most galleries, but always look for signage indicating any restrictions on specific artworks or temporary exhibitions.
The museum's diverse collections, from ancient sculptures to modern installations, offer numerous visually appealing backdrops. The Riverwalk entrance also provides scenic photo opportunities.
While not explicitly mentioned, keep an eye on the museum's events calendar for potential photography-related workshops or special tours that might focus on artistic appreciation.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While there isn't a dedicated children's wing, the sheer breadth of the collection means there's likely something to capture every child's imagination. The museum's proximity to the Riverwalk also provides an opportunity for outdoor fun before or after your art exploration.
💰 Budget Travelers
Even when paying admission, consider it an investment in a half-day of cultural enrichment. The museum's location on the Riverwalk means you can combine your visit with a scenic, free stroll, and there are numerous affordable dining options nearby if you choose not to dine at the museum's trattoria.
+1❤️ Couples & Art Enthusiasts
Consider visiting during a special exhibition to experience something unique together. Afterwards, enjoy a romantic lunch or dinner at the onsite Italian Trattoria overlooking the Riverwalk, or explore the charming restaurants nearby.
+1 The museum's well-curated collections offer endless opportunities for discovery and discussion, making it a perfect date destination. Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Diverse Collections
Moving beyond antiquity, SAMA boasts one of the most comprehensive Latin American art collections in the United States. This includes pre-Columbian artifacts, colonial art, and modern and contemporary works that highlight the rich cultural tapestry of the region. The museum also features significant collections of Asian art, European paintings, and contemporary art, ensuring a broad spectrum of artistic expression for every visitor.
Beyond the permanent collections, SAMA frequently hosts temporary exhibitions that bring world-class art to San Antonio. These can range from retrospectives of influential artists, like the recent Amalia Mesa-Bains exhibition, to thematic explorations of art history. Checking the museum's schedule for current special exhibits is highly recommended to catch these unique displays.
Planning Your Visit: Tips from Travelers
For those driving, paid parking is available in a lot across the street, typically costing around $8-10 for a few hours. Alternatively, the museum's Riverwalk entrance offers a picturesque approach and is a great option if you're already exploring the famous San Antonio Riverwalk.
Allow ample time for your visit; most visitors find that 2.5 to 4 hours are needed to comfortably explore the museum's four floors and extensive collections. Don't forget to check for special exhibitions as they often feature unique and highly acclaimed artists. The museum's onsite Italian Trattoria, Tre Trattoria, provides a lovely dining option with Riverwalk views, perfect for a midday break.
+1
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