Things To Do
in Universal City
Universal City, Texas sits just northeast of San Antonio as a convenient gateway to the region’s attractions. It blends a quiet, walkable town vibe with easy access to big-city dining, culture, and outdoor spaces. Visitors can comfortably explore parks, local eateries, and nearby historic sites while using the city as a practical base for day trips.
Its location in the San Antonio metro area makes it ideal for families and travelers seeking a balanced mix of relaxation and activity.
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Arrive at Universal City and check into your hotel, where you can get settled and refreshed. Take a leisurely walk around CityWalk, absorbing the vibrant atmosphere filled with shops and eateries. Enjoy a delightful breakfast at a local café to kickstart your vacation.
Explore the various boutiques and entertainment options at CityWalk, including thrilling attractions like mini-golf or a visit to the aquarium. Indulge in lunch at one of the themed restaurants, where you can enjoy unique dishes inspired by popular films. Capture some photos at iconic spots to commemorate the start of your adventure.
As the sun sets, catch a live music performance or a special show at CityWalk that adds to the energetic vibe of the area. Enjoy dinner at a popular restaurant with an inviting ambiance, ideally sampling some local cuisines. Wind down your evening by enjoying a dessert or cocktail at a rooftop bar with stunning views.
Start your day early to beat the crowds at Universal Studios Hollywood, arriving right when the gates open. Head straight to popular attractions like the Wizarding World of Harry Potter and the thrilling rides like Jurassic World. Grab a quick breakfast at one of the park's eateries to fuel up for an exciting day.
Explore thrilling rides, and take a behind-the-scenes studio tour, gaining insight into the movie-making process. Enjoy lunch in the park, perhaps at the Three Broomsticks for a magical experience. Continue visiting attractions and shows, ensuring you don't miss the character meet-and-greets for fun photo ops.
As the park closes, enjoy a final ride or two before heading to one of the themed dining options in CityWalk for an expansive dinner menu. After dinner, consider visiting a nearby cinema to catch a new blockbuster film, extending the Universal experience. Conclude your day with a stroll around CityWalk, enjoying the lively nighttime atmosphere.
Prices
| Item | Price |
|---|---|
| 🍔Meal at inexpensive restaurant | $12-18 |
| 🏠One-bedroom apartment in city center | $1,400-2,100 |
| 🚗Gasoline per gallon | $3.50-4.50 |
| 📶Internet (monthly) | $55-75 |
| 🚖Taxi/ride-hailing (1 mile) | $2-4 |
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Close access to San Antonio attractions
- Family-friendly and safe environment
- Good value for a San Antonio metro location
- Strong local dining scene
- Smaller town feel with fewer nightlife options than downtown San Antonio
- Heat and humidity in summer
- Limited public transit within Universal City itself
- Occasional tourist crowds during events
Places to Visit in Universal City
Visit one of these nice places.
Waterways, arches, and lush landscaping glow under golden hour light—perfect for reflections and long-exposure shots.
Panoramic city views from the tower deck offer dramatic skyline photos, especially at twilight.
Historic architecture and bustling street life provide classic urban photography opportunities.
Scenic riverbank paths with riparian scenery and distant mission silhouettes for wide, expansive shots.
Green parkland and picturesque bridges create charming, nature-infused cityscapes.
Food in Universal City
Universal City Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Eggs, potatoes, and bacon or chorizo tucked into warm tortillas—an everyday staple you’ll spot at breakfast spots and taquerías.
Must-Try!
Slow-smoked beef brisket with tangy sauce or dry rub sessions at local BBQ joints.
Creamy melted cheese dip often served with tortilla chips; a Texas crowd-pleaser to pair with salsas.
Sizzling strips of beef or chicken with peppers and onions, served with warm tortillas and toppings.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
Vibrant market near San Antonio that features local produce, prepared foods, and craft vendors—great for sampling regional produce and snacks.
Historic downtown market with Mexican-inspired foods, vendors, and street food stalls—an iconic San Antonio experience accessible for a day trip.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
Common to exchange a courteous greeting in person; Texans value politeness and a friendly demeanor in public spaces.
Tipping for service is expected in restaurants and cafes; plan for 15-20% in line with national norms.
Respect personal space in lines and crowds; orderly queues are common in stores and eateries.
Safety
Tipping in Universal City
Ensure a smooth experience
In restaurants, 15-20% of the bill is standard; in more casual spots, rounding up is common. Bartenders and service staff typically expect tips, and it’s customary to tip in cash or add to a credit card payment.
Cash and card (credit/debit) are widely accepted; contactless payments are common at most venues. ATMs are readily available, and many establishments now accept mobile wallets.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Mild temperatures with blooming wildflowers; great for outdoor hiking and photography without intense heat.
Hot and humid; plan water breaks, sun protection, and early morning or late evening activities to avoid peak heat.
Pleasant weather and lighter crowds; ideal for riverfront strolls and outdoor dining.
Mild overall with cooler evenings; occasional cold fronts; layering is key for comfort while sightseeing.
Universal City at Night
Hiking in Universal City
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Extensive trails through diverse terrain with wildlife and scenic overlooks, a short drive from Universal City.
Riverside trails with quiet scenery and opportunities for easy day hikes near the Medina River.
Airports
How to reach Universal City by plane.
Major gateway to the region; about 15-20 miles from Universal City depending on route.
Smaller general-aviation airport closer to central San Antonio; not used for typical international travel.
Relatively farther away (about 80+ miles) but accessible for longer trips or connections when SAT is busy.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
Majority demographic in the region, reflecting the area's cultural heritage and culinary diversity.
Another sizable group contributing to the cultural mix and local services.
A component of the community with a broad range of cultural and social contributions.
Growing presence enriching cuisine, businesses, and community events.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Texas schools and teams have a strong football culture; local college and high school games draw community support.
Popular in local gyms and schools; San Antonio Spurs are the major professional team in the region.
Local and regional games, including minor league teams and spring training opportunities in the broader Texas area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Universal City.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Look for bean-based bowls, veggie fajitas, cheese dishes, and salads; many Tex-Mex places offer vegetarian fajitas or veggie enchiladas. In markets, choose fresh produce and prepared veggie options. When dining out, ask for dairy-free queso or salsa-based dips and verify broth or stock ingredients in soups.