Exclusive Tour of the Alameda Theater
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
What sets this tour apart is the beautiful glimpse it offers of not only an iconic landmark of West Downtown, but also the vibrant history of San Antonio's Spanish-language community and all that was achieved. Along the way is fun, music, and even popcorn!
* Explore Streamline Moderne lobby and original design elements;
* See mural art illuminated with blacklight;
* Hear stories of notable performers and community leaders; and
* Support theater restoration — a portion of profits go to the Alameda Theater Conservancy.
Available options
Exclusive Tour of the Alameda Theater
What's included
Price covers the cost for the tour. No additional admission fees or costs are required.
Detailed itinerary
1
The tour kicks off with a brief discussion of West Downtown San Antonio's history, including the importance of San Pedro Creek. We also take in the theater's exterior and its design elements before heading inside.
2
Upon entering the theater, we will explore the main lobby, auditorium, backstage areas, stage, and balcony. All the while, we explore topics of who the owner and architect were, original design elements that can still be seen in an unrestored state, the significance of the blacklight murals, and world-famous performers who appeared on the stage.
3
We then head to the Casa de Mexico building, which surrounds the Alameda Theater, learning more about its significant role in maintaining relations between the US and Latin America. We also hear the story of a local politician who once officed there before rising in power and being friends with international stars of film and politics.
What's not included
Guests should use metered parking or nearby surface lots.
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Important information
Service animals allowed
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Due to building constraints, the route includes six staircases and there is no elevator access.
Tour is conducted in the theater’s pre-renovation state; route, access, and seating may be limited and subject to change.
Meeting point
The tour begins at Sojourn Trading Co. (244 W. Houston St.) and ends outside the theater’s front entrance.
About San Antonio
San Antonio is a vibrant city known for its rich history, diverse culture, and iconic landmarks. It offers a unique blend of historic charm and modern attractions, making it a must-visit destination in Texas.
Top Attractions
The Alamo
A historic Spanish mission and fortress, famous for the Battle of the Alamo in 1836.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
River Walk
A network of walkways along the San Antonio River, lined with restaurants, shops, and attractions.
Scenic
Half-day
Free to walk, boat tours cost around $12-$15
San Antonio Missions National Historical Park
A series of historic Spanish missions, including Mission San Jose, the largest and best-preserved.
Historical
Half-day
Free
Six Flags Fiesta Texas
A major theme park with thrilling rides, water attractions, and live entertainment.
Entertainment
Full-day
$50-$70 per person
The Pearl
A historic brewery turned into a vibrant district with shops, restaurants, and cultural events.
Cultural
Half-day
Free to explore, varies for dining and shopping
Must-Try Local Dishes
Tex-Mex
A fusion of Mexican and Texan cuisine, featuring dishes like enchiladas, tacos, and fajitas.
Lunch/Dinner
Vegetarian options available.
BBQ
Slow-smoked meats like brisket, ribs, and sausage, served with classic BBQ sides.
Lunch/Dinner
Not vegetarian-friendly.
Breakfast Tacos
A local favorite, featuring eggs, cheese, and various fillings wrapped in a tortilla.
Breakfast
Vegetarian options available.
Churro Ice Cream Sandwich
A popular dessert featuring ice cream sandwiched between two crispy churros.
Dessert
Vegetarian.
Popular Activities
Tubing on the Comal River
Hiking in the Hill Country
Kayaking on the San Antonio River
Spa treatments at luxury resorts
Boat tours on the River Walk
Shopping at The Pearl
Visiting the McNay Art Museum
Exploring the Briscoe Western Art Museum
Best Time to Visit
March to May, and October to November
These months offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds. It's ideal for outdoor activities and sightseeing.
15-30°C
60-85°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: Spanish
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
San Antonio is generally safe for tourists, but it's important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in less touristy areas.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Use reputable taxi services or rideshare apps
- • Be cautious of strangers offering unsolicited help
Getting there
By air
- San Antonio International Airport • 10 miles from city center
- Stinson Municipal Airport • 8 miles from city center
By train
San Antonio Amtrak Station
By bus
Greyhound Station, Megabus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
Affordable and reliable, with various routes covering major attractions.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Downtown
The Pearl
King William Historic District
Southtown
La Cantera
Day trips
Fredericksburg
60 miles from San Antonio • Full day
A charming German-inspired town known for its wineries, historic sites, and annual events like Oktoberfest.
Austin
80 miles from San Antonio • Full day
The vibrant capital of Texas, known for its live music scene, outdoor activities, and unique cultural attractions.
San Marcos
30 miles from San Antonio • Half-day
A scenic town known for its outdoor activities, including tubing on the San Marcos River and visiting the historic Texas State University campus.
Festivals
San Antonio River Walk Festival • March
San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo • February
Fiesta San Antonio • April
Pro tips
- Visit the Alamo early in the morning to avoid crowds and long lines.
- Take a boat tour of the River Walk for a unique perspective and a relaxing experience.
- Explore the historic missions on a bike for a fun and active day trip.
- Try local Tex-Mex and BBQ dishes for an authentic San Antonio culinary experience.
- Check for seasonal events and festivals, as they can enhance your visit and offer unique experiences.
Get Price
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
