San Antonio Nightlife Is the River Walk and St. Mary's Strip

The River Walk runs the tourist-grade bar scene — Howl at the Moon, Iron Cactus, and the dozen bars along the river with live music and waterside tables. It's busy, loud, and fine for what it is.

St. Mary's Strip northeast of downtown is where San Antonio's locals actually drink — The Mix, Hi-Tones, Candlelight Coffeehouse. Southtown / Blue Star Arts Complex has newer cocktail rooms and Paper Tiger books touring live music. The Pearl Brewery complex north has the upscale cocktail scene.

Texas 2 AM last call. San Antonio is driving-scale; the River Walk walks but outer districts don't. Uber.