Downtown San Antonio parking changes you need to know before Fiesta

Downtown parking is a beast.

Camille Sauers

June 17, 2021Updated: June 17, 2021 12:01 p.m.

Jeff Talley, 61, pays the meter at the Commerce Street parking lot downtown. The city normally offers free parking downtown from 5 p.m. to 2 a.m. every Tuesday through its Downtown Tuesday program. But it’s suspending the program during Fiesta.

Staff file photo

Parking is nothing glamorous. It’s a necessary evil, a crucial step in in any car excursion. A parking situation can make or break your evening. When it’s good, it’s really good. When it’s bad, well, it feels like a nightmare.

Here are some crucial parking updates about town that you need to know to help things go smoothly, especially during Fiesta.

“Downtown Tuesdays” is taking a Fiesta hiatus

Don’t try to plan your Fiesta parking around this longstanding perk. Downtown Tuesdays, the city’s promotional free parking downtown after 5:30 p.m., is taking a self proclaimed “Fiesta siesta” on Tuesdays between June 22 and June 28. Event parking rates will apply at all city-operated parking lots and garages. Regular meter rates will be in effect, though may be limited due to street closures during various festivities. While free parking is always ideal, at least now you’re prepared to avoid disaster. The Downtown Tuesday program will resume on Tuesday, June 29.

Catch new premium parking at the Pearl

The Pearl is offering new parking options — for a price. For $3, Monday through Thursday, Pearl patrons can secure all day parking. Friday through Sunday during peak traffic, you can pay $8 for day-long parking. Paid premium parking will be located in the West Lot (closer to the river and La Gloria) and in the 281 North and South lots off McAllister Freeway and Pearl Parkway. Free parking is still available on the property, including at the Koehler garage.