San Antonio attractions find new ways to combat summer heat
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San Antonio attractions are gearing up for another scorching summer, as the National Weather Service's Climate Prediction Center forecasts hotter-than-average temperatures over the next few months.
Why it matters: With about 41 million annual tourists, San Antonio is a top Texas spot for travel.
By the numbers: The city has had seven days with temps of 100 degrees or higher this year, according to NWS records.
- However, San Antonio had at least 18 days with heat indices of 100 degrees or hotter since May 21, per Metro Health.
Here's how attractions are preparing to make their destinations safe and enjoyable.
Go Rio
The operator of barges that cruises guests through the famed San Antonio River is enacting a "Summer Siesta" for the first time, spokeswoman Desiree Lancharic tells Axios.
- Cruises start earlier (8am-1pm), take a midday break, then start again for the evening (6-11pm).
- The adjusted hours run July 8-Aug. 30.
Pearl
The mixed-use development has two new cooling stations near The Cellars by Pearl Park and two more at The Plaza, where the monthly mural series is installed.
- Event times will be adjusted to keep guests out of peak sun hours.
- The splash pad is open daily, 9am-10pm.
San Antonio Zoo
The zoo has four cool zones equipped with air conditioners, misters, benches and water throughout the park. The cooling areas debuted last year.
- Animals get access to air-conditioned shelters. They also receive ice baths and ice pop enrichment treats.
- The human-made riverbank, filled with chlorinated water and shaded by large cypress trees, is available for little ones to cool off.
Zoom out: Outdoor-focused bars and restaurants like El Camino and Casa Rio are adding cooling equipment or training staff ahead of the brunt of the blistering heat.
- Six Flags Fiesta Texas and SeaWorld San Antonio didn't respond to questions about their heat-related plans.
The bottom line: Stay weather-aware by checking heat-related resources like NWS' heat-risk tool while enjoying San Antonio's most popular attractions.