San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA): Get Tickets Online To Visit
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Welcome to San Antonio Museum of Art, San Antonio – USA
Step into San Antonio Museum of Art, a world-spanning art adventure, where five millennia of creativity unfolds along the river, rooted in the historic Lone Star Brewery.
About San Antonio Museum of Art
Located in the heart of Downtown San Antonio, the San Antonio Museum of Art (SAMA) is a premier cultural destination that showcases more than 5,000 years of global artistic heritage. Housed within the historic Lone Star Brewery complex, the museum offers an extensive collection that spans ancient Mediterranean artifacts, Asian and Latin American art, contemporary works, and Oceanic pieces. Since its public opening in 1981, SAMA has established itself as a cornerstone of the San Antonio River Walk’s Museum Reach, providing visitors a rich, immersive experience through its thoughtfully curated exhibitions and educational programs.
Address
200 West Jones Avenue, San Antonio, TX 78215
Founded
1981 (original building constructed in 1886 as Lone Star Brewery)
Annual Visitors
Approximately 180,000
Why Visit the San Antonio Museum of Art?
Ancient Mediterranean Art Collection
Discover one of the most extensive collections of ancient Mediterranean artifacts in the southern United States. This collection spans from Pre-dynastic Egypt to Byzantine times and features Greek and Roman sculptures, funerary art, and mythological works. Visitors can explore thousands of years of history through these remarkable and well-preserved objects, offering deep insight into ancient civilizations.
Nelson A. Rockefeller Center for Latin American Art
This center features one of the world’s largest collections of Latin American folk art, alongside notable pieces from Mexico, Central and South America, and the Caribbean. With over 7,000 objects, the Latin American collection offers an encompassing look at indigenous, colonial, and contemporary art, reflecting the vibrant histories and cultures of the region.
Lenora and Walter F. Brown Asian Art Wing
Housing over 1,500 works from across Asia, this 15,000-square-foot wing presents an impressive range of art from countries including China, Japan, India, and Korea. The carefully curated collection highlights diverse cultures and artistic traditions, from delicate ceramics to intricate textiles and sculptures, providing a comprehensive view of Asia’s rich cultural heritage.
Contemporary Art and Regional Artists
The museum showcases post-World War II American paintings and sculptures, with an emphasis on modernist abstraction and works by contemporary Texas artists. The collection includes sculptures by San Antonio-born artist Bonnie MacLeary, making it a key destination for admirers of modern and local art expressions.
Historic Setting in Former Lone Star Brewery
The museum is uniquely housed within the renovated Lone Star Brewery complex, built in 1886. Beyond the art, visitors can appreciate the architectural and historical significance of this landmark. The blend of industrial heritage and cultural richness creates a distinctive atmosphere along the San Antonio River Walk’s Museum Reach.
Timings of San Antonio Museum of Art
Monday
Closed
Tuesdays and Fridays
10:00 AM to 7:00 PM
Wednesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays
10:00 AM to 5:00 PM
Holidays and Closures
Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, Easter Sunday, Battle of Flowers, Independence Day – Closed
Christmas Eve, New Year’s Eve, Fiesta Flambeau Parade – Open 10:00 AM to 3:00 PM
Best Times to Visit San Antonio Museum of Art
Early Mornings on Weekdays
Arrive soon after opening (10 AM) from Tuesday through Friday—crowds are lighter, giving you space and quiet to explore the galleries at your pace without rush or distraction.
Avoid Peak Tourist Seasons
The city sees its largest tourist influx November through April, with pleasant weather and many events—but that brings more people to popular venues, including the museum. Opt instead for spring (March–May) or autumn (September–November) when the weather is mild and lines are shorter.
Free Admission Hours (for Bexar County Residents)
If you’re a local, take advantage of the free-entry windows:
Tuesdays, 4 PM–7 PM
Sundays, 10 AM–12 PM
Though popular, these are great for budget-friendly visits—just expect more visitors during these periods.
Weekday Afternoons
Typically quieter than weekends, especially midweek afternoons let you move through exhibits with fewer interruptions and more focus.
Summer Midday (Low Season)
Summer in San Antonio is hot, and many tourists avoid outdoor attractions. This is especially good for indoor museum visits like SAMA – expect more air-conditioned serenity and fewer crowds.
Location of San Antonio Museum of Art
Nestled along the scenic Museum Reach of the San Antonio River Walk, the San Antonio Museum of Art is housed in the historic Lone Star Brewery complex. Its central location makes it easy to pair a museum visit with nearby downtown attractions and riverfront strolls.
Address
San Antonio Museum of Art
200 West Jones Avenue
San Antonio, TX 78215
How to Get to San Antonio Museum of Art
By Car
Located right on the scenic Museum Reach of the River Walk, reaching SAMA by car is easy via major downtown routes.
SAMA doesn’t offer on-site parking. Across the street, public parking is available; simply scan the QR code on signage or use the parking website to register your vehicle and pay, with license plate and credit card details ready.
Nearby options for street and garage parking include:
– 849 E. Commerce St. Garage (~16 ft away, ~$10)
– 300 E. Crockett St. Garage (~0.1 mi, ~$12)
– 903 E. Commerce St. (Lot 1725) (~0.1 mi, ~$25)
– Springhill Suites Alamo Plaza Lot (~0.2 mi, ~$8)
Great to note: on Tuesdays after 5 PM, downtown city-owned garages and meters offer free parking as part of the “Downtown Tuesday” program.
By Bus
Several VIA Metropolitan Transit routes stop within a short walk:
Nearest stops include N. St. Mary’s & Camden (1-minute walk) and Broadway & Jones (5-minute walk).
Bus lines: 8, 9, 10, 14, 209, 214 all serve these nearby stops.
If arriving from San Antonio International Airport, VIA Metro offers Line 7 bus service (approx. $2, ~19–36 min) to Martin & Navarro, from where the museum is easily accessible.
By Taxi / Rideshare
Taxis and app-based rides are readily available throughout the city.
From the airport, the trip is about 7.5 miles—roughly 10 minutes, costing $27–$35.
On Foot or by Bike
The museum is accessible on foot or by bike via the beautiful Museum Reach River Walk.
It’s about a 10-minute walk from The Pearl district and roughly 30 minutes from central downtown hotels, with public art along the way.
A San Antonio Bike Share (B-Cycle) station at Jones & Avenue B makes cycling in easy and fun.
By Train
Amtrak’s San Antonio Station (350 Hoefgen St.) is the main rail terminal for long-distance trains like the Texas Eagle and Sunset Limited.
While there isn’t a direct shuttle, you can easily take a short taxi or rideshare ride from the station to reach the museum
Things to Know Before Visiting San Antonio Museum of Art
- Facilities
- Accessibility
- Guidelines
- Rules
Onsite Facilities
Restrooms
Conveniently located throughout the galleries, ensuring easy access wherever you are in the museum.
Tre Trattoria (Restaurant)
Enjoy lunch or dinner with river views inside the historic Hops House. Members receive a 10% discount on food and non-alcoholic beverages.
Museum Store
Shop books, prints, jewelry, and more—members save 10% on purchases.
Self-Guided Group Visits
Adult groups of 10 or more can arrange a self-guided visit for $22 per person. Members and children under 12 are free; seniors (65+), students (13–17), and military receive reduced rates.
Guided Tours for All Ages
Docent-led tours are available, including themes like “Animals in Art,” “Stories in Art,” or “The Parts of Art.” These tours last 50 minutes, accommodate up to 60 participants, and require at least two weeks’ notice. Bilingual tours are also available on request.
Outdoor Lunch Areas
Groups can enjoy outdoor picnic space on a first-come basis, with Tre Trattoria serving as a backup when weather doesn’t cooperate.
Accessibility Information
Mobility Support
Ramps, elevators, and accessible restrooms are available. Lightweight folding stools (also usable as canes) are offered near the Great Hall. Wheelchairs can be requested from security at the front desk (first-come, first-served).
Free Tours
The museum also offers free and specially designed tours for people with memory loss and their caregivers. Free group tours are also available for people with mobility issues.
Service Animals
Trained service animals are welcome throughout the museum. Non-service pets are not permitted.
Multisensory Tours for Low-Vision Visitors
Special tours designed for visually impaired guests incorporate touch, sound, smell, and descriptive narration. Guide dogs and sighted companions are welcome. Reservations available via email.
Visitor Guidelines
Tickets & Admission
Guests are encouraged to purchase tickets online in advance to save time at entry. Members and children under 12 enjoy free admission.
Food & Drink
Outside food, beverages, and gum are not permitted in the galleries. Tre Trattoria and outdoor areas are available for dining.
Arrival Time
Visitors should plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before scheduled tours or programs to allow for check-in and orientation.
Family-Friendly Environment
Children are welcome, but those under 16 must be accompanied by an adult at all times.
Phone Use
Mobile devices should be silenced inside galleries. Calls should be taken outside to avoid disturbing other guests.
Photography Etiquette
Casual, personal photos are welcome, but please be mindful not to block walkways or disrupt the experience of others.
Rules and Regulations
Respect for Artworks
Touching or leaning on works of art and display cases is strictly prohibited.
Smoking/Vaping
Smoking and vaping are not permitted inside the museum or on museum grounds.
Prohibited Items
Pens, markers, food, drinks, weapons, large bags, and backpacks are not allowed in the galleries. Bags must be checked at the front desk.
Restricted Photography
Flash, tripods, stabilizers, drones, selfie sticks, and posed portrait sessions inside the museum are not permitted. Commercial and media photography requires prior approval from the Marketing Department.
Portrait Photography Passes (Outdoors Only)
Formal portrait sessions on the museum grounds require a pass ($30 individual, $50 for groups of 10+), valid for 48 hours. No outfit changes or restroom use for dressing is permitted.
Behavior Policy
Running, shouting, disruptive conduct, or climbing on sculptures and furniture is prohibited to maintain a respectful environment.
Interesting Facts About the San Antonio Museum of Art
A Brewery Turned Museum
The museum is housed in the former Lone Star Brewery complex, built between 1895–1904. After a $7.2 million renovation, it officially opened as a museum in March 1981.
Vibrant Programming & Education
SAMA offers more than 500 guided tours and 400+ educational programs annually—including workshops, lectures, films, and family art activities—fulfilling a dynamic cultural mission.
One of the Largest Ancient Mediterranean Collections in the South
SAMA boasts one of the most comprehensive collections of ancient Egyptian, Near Eastern, Greek, and Roman art in the southern United States.
Home to the Largest Asian Art Center in the Southern U.S.
Opened in 2005, the Lenora and Walter F. Brown Asian Art Wing spans 15,000 sq ft and holds over 1,500 works from across Asia, making it one of the largest in the nation.
Vast Latin American Art Treasures
The Nelson A. Rockefeller Center for Latin American Art, opened in 1998, spans 30,000 sq ft and includes more than 7,000 objects—one of the most important Latin American folk art collections in the world.
Oceanic Art Highlights
On its fourth floor, SAMA contains artworks from Papua New Guinea, French Polynesia, Maori culture, Aboriginal Australia, and more—a rare and richly diverse Oceanic collection.
The Heritage Live Oak
The majestic live oak in the Sculpture Garden dates back to around 1718, making it older than the U.S. itself—and a peaceful natural feature by the river.
Historic Streetcar ‘Old 300’
From 1982 to 1985, SAMA operated a restored 1913 streetcar behind the museum—nicknamed “Old 300.” Today, it serves as a historic attraction on a trolley line in Oregon.
A Shipwrecked Roman Bust from a Goodwill?
One stunning piece in the museum—a Roman marble bust from the 1st century BC—was purchased at a Goodwill store in Austin for $35. It’s on display for a limited time.
Strategic Riverfront Access
In 2009, the Museum Reach extension of the River Walk added the Gloria Galt River Landing—creating beautiful public access and a shaded esplanade right next to the museum.