San Antonio's 15 Best Bars to Walk to After the King William Parade

 ¡Viva Fiesta, san antonio!

Every spring, San Antonio transforms into a city-wide celebration of culture, heritage, and community during Fiesta — an iconic tradition dating back to 1891. And what began as a simple parade in 1968, The King William Parade has grown into one of the most iconic Fiesta events in town. With a 9am parade start time, there's plenty of time to enjoy the parade floats, then toast to Fiesta in the neighborhood’s vibrant bar and restaurant scene, with any combination of these 15 must-see destinations.

Bar 1919

Blue Star Arts Complex - 1420 South Alamo Street - @Bar1919_Official

Tucked inside the historic Blue Star Arts Complex just across the San Antonio River from the parade route, Bar 1919 is a speakeasy-style gem that takes its cocktails and beer, seriously. This intimate, dimly lit bar offers an extensive line up of great beer, rare whiskeys, and curated spirits. During Fiesta, it's the perfect escape from the lively chaos outside — a place to slow down, sip a cold HighWheel beer or a Kinsman cocktail, and soak in the speakeasy atmosphere.

HALCYON

Blue Star Arts Complex - 1414 South Alamo Street - @HalcyonSouthtownSA

With it’s proximity to the parade route, Halcyon is a one-of-a-kind spot that tends to all your legal vices under one roof. Halcyon brings a lively, eclectic energy to the Blue Star area that fits the King William parade scene like a glove… the patio becomes a prime people-watching spot as Southtown buzzes with revelers. The relaxed, come-as-you-are vibe makes it an ideal place to gather with friends, reenergize with a stellar cup of java, or chill with a cold HighWheel Betty, and stay in close proximity to all things King William.

LIBERTY BAR

1111 South Alamo Street - @LibertyBarSA

A San Antonio institution with deep roots, Liberty Bar has been a beloved gathering spot for decades. Housed in a beautifully restored historic convent, (after relocating from its famously tilted former home), Liberty Bar pairs a warm, rustic ambiance with a well-curated bar program and exceptional food. Their cocktail list has thoughtful twists, and their scratch kitchen always delivers a happy tummy. Top off your Saturday with either the HighWheel Betty, 56 IPA, or a Kinsman cocktail, and know you’ve supported local with every choice.

BAR LORETTA

320 Beauregard - @BarLoretta

Nestled in the heart of Southtown and the King William parade route, Bar Loretta is a chic neighborhood bar that effortlessly blends European café culture with San Antonio charm. The modern eatery and bar pairs Texas fare (the tots are a must try) with crisp cold HighWheel beer, and is easily a must stop on everyone’s trip to the neighborhood. Bar Loretta is perfectly located to unwind while the festive energy of Southtown swirls around you.

GIMME GIMME

803 South St. Mary's Street - @BarGimmeGimme

Bar Gimme Gimme opened in August of 2023 and quickly grew into a community staple. The team brings bold, playful energy to San Antonio's drinking scene, with the lively atmosphere, colorful décor, and upbeat soundtrack making it a natural fit for Fiesta season. Whether you're looking for a fun mid-Fiesta pit stop, or kicking off a night out, Gimme Gimme’s food, cocktail and beer lineup make it an easy choice for anyone looking to explore one of the oldest neighborhoods in the State.

Maverick Texas Brasserie

710 South St. Mary's Street - @Maverick.SanAntonio

From sizzling live-fire steaks, to French comfort dishes with bold Southern flair, Maverick is a place where locals and visitors alike can kick back and stay a while. This Southtown joint offers a sophisticated yet accessible dining and drinking experience providing a refined backdrop for Fiesta celebrations that call for something a little more upscale. They pride themselves on encouraging guests to order what they love, pair it how they want it, and dine on their terms… and we couldn’t agree more. The bar program here is polished, and their HighWheel beer line up is deep. The elegant interior — think rich textures, warm lighting, and timeless design — is an ideal spot for a post-parade cocktail or a dinner with friends who appreciate a finer Fiesta experience.

Kimpton SANTO HOTEL - TENFOLD ROOFTOP & DEAN’S

431 South Alamo Street - @TenFoldRooftop

The Kimpton delivers a one-two punch with TenFold, its stunning rooftop bar, and Dean's, its stylish ground-level bar. Up on the rooftop, Ten Fold offers panoramic views of the San Antonio skyline, and Hemisfair, making it one of the most spectacular perches in the city — especially during Fiesta with it’s proximity to the King William parade and the rest of the neighborhood’s eateries. The vibe is chic and social, regardless of the time of day or night. Downstairs, Dean's provides a more intimate setting with great beer and cocktails and a refined atmosphere. Together, they offer two distinct Fiesta experiences under one roof. And now that South Alamo Street is complete, getting there just got a whole lot easier.

PLAZA HOTEL - ANAQUA GARDEN BAR

555 South Alamo Street - @anaquagardenbar

Anaqua is a hidden treasure that feels like stepping into a secret garden in the middle of the city. With its lush greenery, twinkling string lights, and relaxed open-air poolside setting, this two-bar bar, is one of San Antonio's most enchanting outdoor drinking spots. The cocktail menu is fresh and approachable, with plenty of options that are perfect for warm Fiesta days and nights — think refreshing Kinsman spritzes, and cold HighWheel Betty poolside. It's the kind of place that just might give you some tranquility on a bustling Fiesta Saturday.

DOUGH

518 South Alamo Street - @DoughPizzeriaSA

Dough at Hemisfair Park is much more than just outstanding Neapolitan pizza — though the pizza alone is worth the visit. The Hemisfair location, situated in San Antonio's beautifully revitalized urban park, boasts a fantastic bar and patio area that makes it a prime Fiesta destination. Enjoy a Kinsman cocktail, or a wide range of HighWheel beers, while soaking in the incredible flavors of any dish you order. Dough is an especially great choice for groups with varied tastes, offering world-class pizza alongside drinks that satisfy everyone from beer lovers to cocktail enthusiasts. With the South Alamo Street construction complete, the stroll to and from the King William parade will be a breeze.

Fairmount Hotel - Rooftop Bar & NonNa Osteria

401 South Alamo Street - @thefairmountsa

The historic Fairmount Hotel — famously once moved six blocks in its entirety, earning a Guinness World Record — is home to a gorgeous rooftop bar and Nonna Osteria, its ground floor signature restaurant and bar. The rooftop offers sweeping views of Hemisfair Park, craft cocktails with a modern twist, and a sophisticated yet welcoming vibe that's perfect for Fiesta evenings. Downstairs, Nonna delivers a refined Italian-inspired menu complemented by an excellent cocktail and wine program. Whether you're sipping a HighWheel Betty or a Kinsman Negroni on the roof as the sun sets over the city, or enjoying it at Nonna's stylish bar, the Fairmount delivers an elevated Fiesta experience steeped in San Antonio history. First opened in 1906, this newly renovated hotel offers timeless yet contemporary accommodations in the heart of all things Fiesta.

Beethoven Männerchor

422 Pereida Street - @beethovensatx

Beethoven Männerchor, to use its full name, is one of San Antonio's most cherished cultural institutions — a German heritage hall and beer garden that has been a gathering place since 1867. The spacious outdoor Biergarten, shaded by towering trees along the King William Historic District, is one of the most iconic drinking spots in the city. During Fiesta, Beethoven comes alive with live music, hearty German fare, and an unbeatable selection of German and local beers on tap. There's something wonderfully fitting about celebrating Fiesta — a festival rooted in San Antonio's multicultural identity — in a place that represents one of the many cultures woven into the city's fabric. Oh, and we delivered half-a-van-full of HighWheel Betty kegs, so we sure hope they don’t run out.

Leche de Tigre

318 East Cevallos Street - @lechedetigretx

Leche de Tigre brings the bold, bright flavors of Latin America to San Antonio's bar and dining scene. Named after the citrus-forward ceviche marinade known as "tiger's milk" in Peruvian cuisine, this spot delivers a menu of inventive cocktails inspired by the diverse culinary traditions of Central and South America. Expect vibrant flavors — think pisco sours, and Kinsman-forward creations, tropical fruit infusions, and refreshing highballs that pair perfectly with the warm Fiesta weather. The atmosphere is colorful, energetic, and celebratory — a natural extension of the Fiesta spirit. It's a fantastic choice for adventurous drinkers looking to explore flavors beyond the traditional Fiesta grub. Never fear the leisurely stroll just past the river to this truest of neighborhood gems.

Il Forno

122 Nogalitos Street - @ilfornosa

Il Forno is one of those neighborhood gems worth the trek… over the river, past the tracks, across the street. But this beloved joint, with a loyal following for its wood-fired pizzas, house-made hummus, and a chocolate mousse to die for, is every bit worth the effort. The house-made meats and a great vibe, score Il Forno high on every Best of list for one obvious reason… the effort they put forth is incredible. So whether you’re settling in for an evening of eating and drinking after the parade, or simply recharging with great food and a cold beer before returning to the fair, the team behind Il Forno always delivers.

CAMP OUTPOST CO.

1811 South Alamo Street - @EatAtCamp

Camp Outpost is a unique bar and gathering space that brings the spirit of the great outdoors to San Antonio's urban landscape. With its camp-inspired aesthetic — think rustic wood, fire pits, outdoor seating, and a laid-back, adventurous vibe — Camp Outpost is a refreshingly different addition to the city's bar scene. During Fiesta, Camp Outpost's spacious outdoor setup and communal atmosphere make it an ideal spot for large groups looking to gather, celebrate, and enjoy the festive spirit in the neighborhood.

MCINTYRE’S - SOUTHTOWN

1035 South Presa Street - @mcintyressouthtown

McIntyre's is the Southtown sports bar. With it’s close proximity to the King William parade finish line, McIntyre's quickly becomes a hub for post-parade imbibing without the fuss. Weather permitting, expect a packed patio, plenty of TVs, and the kind of community-driven energy that makes the neighborhood special. If you're looking for an authentic, down-to-earth sports bar vibe in the heart of one of SA's most beloved neighborhoods, ya found it!

No matter how many of these bars you visit on Saturday, you're in for an unforgettable Fiesta experience. Southtown’s bar scene is as diverse and vibrant as the neighborhood itself, and there's no better time to explore it than during the biggest party of the year. So grab your friends, put on your Fiesta medal, and raise a glass: ¡Viva Fiesta!

Fritts: the new face at Dorćol

Eric Fritts (Dorćol Distilling + Brewing Co., Chavis Barron)

On the cusp of celebrating our fifth anniversary, Dorćol Distilling + Brewing Company has added a new face to the award-winning bar program. Starting today, Eric Fritts (just call him Fritts) is the team’s newest barman. Joining us from Paramour, he will run day-to-day operations at the South Flores tasting room and lead the creative direction for the spot’s robust cocktail menu. The Connecticut native has worked in the San Antonio bar scene for years. He got his start in scrappy dive bars and eventually worked his way into respected craft cocktails joints, learning the ins and outs of the craft. Aside from slinging cocktails and pouring beers, he’ll be helping to grow the Kinsman and HighWheel brands as a Brand Ambassador.

As a previous barkeep familiar with Dorćol from the start, I sat down with Fritts to chat about his new role at Dorćol, thoughts on the craft beer scene, and his take on using our award-winning apricot brandy. Let’s see what's in store:

Barmen usually have several base spirits to work with when slinging cocktails. What are your thoughts now that you only get to use one?

It’s exciting. I like that we feature just one spirit because I know the goal of every drink. Every cocktail that comes from behind this bar will feature Kinsman and feature it well.

How would you describe Kinsman’s versatility?

It’s only going to add to a cocktail and never take away anything from it. You can use it in a variety of cocktails and it’s going to compliment and accentuate the drink. As the main feature of a cocktail, you can’t go wrong. Kinsman is always going to make whatever you're concocting better. I like that it’s apricot based, which is something you don’t see everyday. I like that it’s unique and there’s nothing else out there like it. A spirit can be iconic because of the story it was inspired from. This spirit has a great family history and it’s part of what makes it special.

As the creative force behind the bar, what are your plans for the cocktail program?

I’m excited to come in and work to develop my own drinks and use such a great spirit while doing it. I want to develop different syrups, shrubs, and tinctures to compliment the brandy and not overwhelm it. I’ve worked with so many great mentors. I’m ready to take what I’ve learned and really create something special. But really, I want to help further establish and grow the identity of our brands.

What are your thoughts on HighWheel’s place in the craft beer scene?

There’s so much more to craft beer than hoppy IPAs and artificial flavorings. I think most breweries don’t get that. IPAs are great, I personally love the one we have, but you don’t need nine of them. I love that we take it back to the beginning, embracing the classic styles. It’s handcrafted beer, but it’s not pretentious, it’s not excessive flavors for the sake of excessive flavors. It’s just really good beer.

Aside from the gig behind the bar, what else excites you about this opportunity?

I’m excited to experience the entire process, both spirits and beer, getting out from behind the bar and help grow a brand beyond the tasting room. I’ve been behind the bar for six years and now it’s exciting to have the opportunity to sell beer and spirits in another way. It’s something I’ve always been passionate about, so I’m ready to learn everything from production, to sales, to consumption.

What can people expect with you behind the bar?

I always want to make sure you’re going to have a good time. That’s the whole point. You’re coming here to relax and enjoy yourself. Every time I get back here I’m ready to have fun. This is my passion. I enjoy this. I want to make drinks people will really enjoy and develop a relationship with them over time. I want to be their bartender.

Describe your approach to cocktail making?

It’s versatile and quick. I like to adapt to each guest and make sure I give them what they are looking for.

How would you describe Dorćol to someone who hasn’t visited?

You have to know it to find it. There’s relaxed identity here. The whole place has this cool industrial feel that’s refined, but not pretentious. It exemplifies the spirit it was inspired by. We are makers of the world's highest-rated brandy, that needs to be shared. 

Where does brandy fit into the craft cocktail scene?

Brandy is one of the oldest spirits and it's starting to re-emerge in its own niche. Not many people know brandy was America's original spirit, long before whiskey and vodka, so it’s going to take a little education, but that’s part of the fun. We’re bringing something different to the table and that changes things.

by Valentino Lucio