El Mercado

Visited this area while in town thinking it would the same layout as what Wayne and I found when we were young, but what came disappointment by the lack of «Mexican feel» to it. It was just any olé flea market with a few vendors. Most vendors were selling clothing, and games that had that sense of cheap material with a huge price tag on it. Also, most of the vendors seemed like the same ones you spot when you are at the county fair.

Awesome place to go to have a great time, with your family. The plaza has so many options to choose from on the weekends in comparison on the weekdays. Will be back for several things next time!

When in San Antonio, do as San Anton-​ians do!
When starting off your day, hit up «El Mercado». Essentially a Mexican Market square, you’ll find textiles, costumes, authentic souvenirs, food, drinks, snacks, music & entertainment, and everything else in between these festive street parties!!! There’ the Main Market strip and two major indoor Markets right along side the strip… and don’t forget to stop at the world renown restaurant «Mi Tierra»!!
This place is usually happening early on. Hit this market square party early on THEN make your way towards the River Walk where it gets happening later on in the day.

Went to the indoor el mercado and the outdoor part on the other side.
Super kitschy stuff. I’m sure some of it was authentic mixed in with the fake. All of it– overpriced.
Fun to eat at the food stalls outside but def over priced. Bring cash. Many don’t accept cards.
There’s a lot of dancing in the indoor part which is fun!
It’s fine to kill some time esp on Sunday when the meters are free. However, I wouldn’t go out of ur way to go.

Who wants to travel all the way to Mexico and maybe get kidnapped or shot full of holes? Not me so San Antonio’s El Mercado is the next best thing. TONS of stuff from «Hecho en Mexico» in the numerous booths located in this huge enclosure. I love to walk around with a tall margarita while we stroll the shops.
I especially love the shows by folklorico dancers and love listening to local mariachi groups. The «Market Place» has it all.

We went in the morning on a week day, so not a totally fair assessment. But, it felt like someone had put in cheesy CD about 10 years ago and just let it play. Most of the shops seemed to be selling all the same junky souvenirs. Many other more interesting places to visit in SA than here. Was also called «Historic Marketplace» which I cannot understand at all — seemed like nothing about the place was historic. Pretty paper flags hanging across the middle — might be a different experience when much busier.

Not sure this is a must-​see spot for visitors to San Antonio, but if you have a car, don’t mind paying $ 10 for parking, and are heading to Mi Tierra Bakery, then El Mercado at Market Square is a famous shopping experience to check off your bucket list.
It’s billed as the largest Mexican Market in the U.S. and is filled with vendors selling over-​priced gifts to tourists like leather belts and embroidered dresses. After about 5-​minutes, it feels like every space is selling basically the same things.
The people working at most of the booths and stores are friendly and have just one rule: Don’t Take Pictures With The Hats!
Put.
That Sombrero.
Down.
Sombrero’s for closers only.

In a word: touristy «artisan» junk. Overpriced goods hawked by street vendors to be used as souvenirs. Half of it is mass produced in the USA, the other half is legitimately from Mexico. I’d opt for the higher-​end imports while here, as the rest can be found in the airport. The jewelry (especially anything with turquoise) and decorative crosses in particular are beautiful.
It’s a pedestrian-​friendly area to kill some time, especially if it’s not in the dead heat of summer. You can browse and delude yourself that you’re getting some «local culture», if you want. Make the experience more enjoyable by grabbing a margarita at Mi Tierra around the corner.
Be careful in the smaller shops with pottery– you break, you buy. And don’t be that jerk that tries on all of the Mexican dresses, sombreros, and accessories to snap a photo for social media without making any purchases.

We were in San Antonio for just 1 full day and decided that El Mercado was the thing to do with the time we had, wow we made a good choice !!!
First of all, San Antonio is a real easy city to get around in if you have a car, you don’t have someone on your behind every second when your trying to find something like parking, which there is plenty of. I know there is a lot right there at the mercado but we parked like a block away and you get all day for $ 5. The Market is open from 10 am to 6 pm.
There are a few places to eat, the famous Mi Tierra which was surprisingly good, another big restaurant right next to it and a few snack places inside the markets buildings. But the main reason you come here is to shop !!! Most vendors sell the same things at about the same prices, but it seemed that the more vendors we checked out we would find a few things that we hadn’t seen before or in different styles. The prices seem a bit high for many of the things, and I think they do this so you can haggle then feel you stuck a deal when you really didn’t. In most stores the vendors let you shop, no high pressure sales pitches and they are more worried about you breaking something then stealing so they just let you shop… its really a chill place to browse.
The thing is for me and my mom is we don’t have any place like this were we live in Washington St. and we love how colorful the Latinos are which shows in the stuff they are selling here at the Market. Yeah most of the stuff probably is kitchy and touristy but if that is the kind of thing you like, man this place if for you !!! A word of warning, if you like this kind of stuff, make a budget and TRY to stick with it !
What a fun place to shop !!!

The owner of a little shop inside called Naturaleza (something) is racist against Mexicans. I was walking around his store and as clear as day over hear him talking on his phone about how «the problem is the Mexican border isn’t secure enough» «they need to monitor the wall better» and «we need to send them all back and only let a few come over» «you see how they are now starting to buy houses here»… I was seriously shocked and did an about face and out the door I went.

Awesome things to find and see. Bargaining is a little tough because it is so touristy. Grab a horchata, cup o’ corn, live music, and buy some hand blown glass and talavera.

When someone asks me if Market Square downtown is worth visiting I always indelible refer back, «Which one?» There is the one by Mi Tierra, which gets crazy packed with tourists and the one closer to the highway, which also gets crazy packed with tourists. Both spots are unique and different in the sense that they have the potential to highlight our city. However, in terms of fun and sheer enjoyment I prefer El Mercado.
El Mercado is basically a big souvenir shop, no doubt for tourists who have never trekked further south, and want to take a piece of Texas back east, west or north wherever their point of destination is. There are many shops that sell really cool but: pricey Mexican Curios, mirrors, jewelry, items of Texas lore, glassware and neat stuff with San Antonio-​isms. There is a spot that sells funny shirts for example where you can score the ones that say, «Drunk One-​Drunk Two» or «Chit Happens.»
But by and large my favorite part is the food court area.
The food court has small kiosks that sell mainly Tex-​Mex fare. There is an open area with tables where you can eat and drink. My personal routine is to grab a craft beer from Angie’s Café and sit at a table and just people watch. I like to observe all the colorful characters that seem to inhabit this space. You see couples with snuck in drinks. A table overflowing with friends, giant boot shaped glasses and nachos turns into an impromptu family reunion. A group of tourists (I can usually spot them a mile away) wander the place like a lost herd with a GPS tracker in tow; trying to figure out where exactly the Alamo is. It is a cross section of the city that segues before the higher brow fare downtown.
In addition there is a small stage in the middle of the place that has cool entertainment for the whole family. Typically on weekends they have Flamenco Dancers, musical acts and I have seen a Michael Jackson impersonator on their heavy rotation of entertainers. My only critique is that they would benefit from more tables, especially on weekends when this place is bumping. As far as parking is concerned you can situate yourself underneath the highway, for a nominal fee. If you go this route may I suggest you make a day of it and visit Market Square across the street as well.
Another thing that may dissuade people from coming here are their restroom facilities which are abominable. They seem like they haven’t seen any improvements or cleaning, for that matter since Jimmy Carter was president. I wish they would take their cues from the Marketplace across the street as those are more nicer and making the necessary aesthetic adjustments.
Still I really like El Mercado. You can do all your souvenir shopping, eat, drink and share good times with all your friends in one destination. Depending on the time of day or week it is as dead as a door knob and you feel like you have the whole place to yourself. But on the weekend it really picks up and is bustling with the sounds of music and people having fun. It offers a brief window into the vibe of our city and that vibe is all about «the party.» Plus the Mexican Elvis that comes here is well worth your time.
PS. I miss the marimba player.(rip)

This is a great place to go grab all the souvenirs to remind you of Texas and Mexico. There’s tons of shops in here, with everything from imported Mexican glassware and tableware to t-​shirts and weird little Mexican dolls. If you need a t-​shirt that tells everyone that you’re with ‘Texas Bootie Inspectors’ this is your place.
Plus, there’s cheap drinks and decent food in here. The interior is air conditioned, which is greatly appreciated when it gets hot out.
If you go during Fiesta, there’s all kinds of cool stuff going on– live music and tacos!
The place was renovated heavily in 1973 when the city came up with a scheme to gentrify a bunch of run down buildings into shops, and turn the produce row into a pedestrian friendly market with lots of little shops and restaurants.
If you’re looking to top off your San Antonio cultural experience, you need to check this place out– hitting up Mi Tierra is just an added bonus.

Does anyone know what times or dates this mercado is open?
Would love to go!

A must visit when you are in SA. The Mexican items you see for sale are from, well, Mexico. So many authentic and unique one of a kind items. Prices are reasonable. Girls must purchase a cute Mexican top or dress. Dulce de leche is for sale (a sweet Mexican Candy). Do NOT try on a sombrero. You will be charged $ 5. Just buy the darn thing.

El Mercado is a great spot to spend an afternoon immersed in San Antonio culture. It’s on my «must do» list for out-​of-​town guests, and is always a big hit. Whether you are a local or just in the city for a visit, I highly recommend you visit El Mercado *at least* once.
While in El Mercado, you will feel transported across the border to a traditional Mexican plaza. Throughout the square (both in the open-​air area and the indoor mall area), there are many shops selling Mexican art, jewelry, toys, pottery, clothing, and miscellaneous souvenirs. Inside the indoor «mall» portion, there are more shops and a food court. Along the way, there are vendors selling corn-​in-​a-​cup, fruit cups, tacos, aguas frescas and horchata, as well as adult beverages. Because this is an area mostly frequented by tourists, you will pay a premium for these items.
If you are looking for a proper sit-​down meal instead of just a snack, Mi Tierra Restaurant is adjoining El Mercado and is a favorite for many out-​of-​town visitors, offering good food and a fun atmosphere.
For art aficionados — check out The Educational & Cultural Arts Center Museum at El Mercado (free admission) while you’re exploring the square. It’s an excellent place to view the work of local artists and attend art-​related events and lectures.
I recommend planning your visit on the weekend, when you will more-​than-​likely find live music, folk dancers, and perhaps an appearance by the Locally Famous Mexican Elvis! Park across the street for easy access (parking is cash only!). Many shops and vendors prefer cash, also (and some give cash discounts) so definitely stop at an ATM before your visit.

Great place for shopping.
This is the first Mexican market I have been to and totally blown away by the shops and restaurants around.
Most stores sell the same stuff but walk around to see who sells cheap. Drink some drinks around, there are some small Horchata stalls. Drink some.
Must go place on Weekends in San Antonio

If you want a real taste of Mexico when in San Antone, El Mercado should definitely be of your list of places to visit! Huge variety of booths and stands offering items heche in Mexico, clothing, pottery, toys, jewelry… you name it — great variety — lots to look at! There are the outside vendors and also two large buildings that surround the market that are AC (very welcoming in the hotter months) and house several small shops. Most carry the same or similar items. Prices from one booth to the next can range from the difference of a few bucks to double the price — so beware. Shop around until you buy — just try to remember where you saw the item at the right price. As a general rule, outside vendors tend to be a little less expensive and are more likely to give you a cash discount.
There are also several various food stands that offer gorditas, chicharon tacos, and lots of other goodies! If you never have before, be sure to get a cup of roasted corn «Mexican style» with mayo, butter, Cotija cheese, and chili powder. Really really good! Trust me! Oh, and if you’d like, grab a cold beer from one of the outside stores and feel free to walk about and enjoy.
In addition to the food stands, there are a few restaurants at the market, including the very popular (always going to be a wait) Mi Tierra (open 24 hours a day. 365 days a year).
On weekends the outside market is often filled with live Tejano music, dancers, the occasional «Mexican Elvis» spotting, and always great people watching!
TIP: If you’re not walking from a hotel, there’s a $ 5 parking lot across the street or $ 7 in the garage.

I was on the Riverwalk for a conference and decided to go to the The Market to kill some time on Sunday morning. They opened at 10 and was much more impressed than I expected. I walked down Houston Street to get there, and then turned on Santa Rosa and I returned via Commerce street. It was a nice walk on a Sunny day (about 15 minutes at leisurely pace) and I was able to see some interesting things and parks along the way. I understand I could have done most of it on the riverwalk, but I enjoyed seeing the city above as well.
The other reviews are pretty on the money, its a tourist place and all,. but I have to be honest the prices were WAAAAAAAAY cheaper than on the Riverwalk and it was worth the walk for the little souvenirs I wanted. I got a shot glass for $ 4 (if I had wanted 3 I could have gotten them for $ 10). they also had mexican blankets for 12 dollars etc. so the prices were good. A woman was selling things she crocheted herself on a street vendor position, and her prices were crazy low. $ 15.00 for a handmade hat. So it was definitely worth my trip and the walk.
The other cool thing was that on the corner of Commerce near the opening, there was a nice clean big Goodwill. So I stopped there. I did not find any shot glasses or things, but if you are thrifter, there was some cool stuff there.
I went at 10 am on Sunday, and things were still being set up, but by the time I left a little after 11 (when goodwill opened), it was hopping.
Also, they did have an adequate public bathroom inside, and there were lots of families there, seemed very family friendly.

When visiting San Antonio, the Mercado (Market Square) is one of those must see areas, along with the Riverwalk and the Alamo.
Located on the west end of downtown San Antonio, the Mercado, or Market Square as it’s known in English, has been a gathering place for street vendors since the early 1800’s.
In modern times, the street vendors are still present and you also have a myriad of shops to choose from selling T-​shirts, hats, clothes and other tourist knickknacks.
There are, however, other shops that sell exquisite jewelry, Mexican art work, and beautifully decorated home furnishings.
There are also street vendors selling various foods. I love getting a couple of puffy tacos, a beer and ‘un vaso de elote’ — a cup of corn. They cut the corn off of the cob, put it in a cup and mix in butter, cream, paprika, lemon pepper and chili powder. It is DELICIOUS.
For those craving something sweet, head over to Mi Tierra. They serve some of the best Mexican pastries you will find anywhere. Wonderful Mexican sweet breads and sweet empanadas.
Next door is the haunted Milam Square.
I love San Antonio because there is always something going on here.