About BLVD Bar & Lounge
BLVD Bar & Lounge is a bar/lounge and nightclub located at 5138 UTSA Boulevard in Northwest San Antonio (www.sacurrent.com ). Opened in the mid-2010s by the team behind local venues Social House and Club Rio (www.sacurrent.com ), BLVD quickly became a fixture in the Northside/UTSA area nightlife scene. The venue was designed with two distinct moods: a laid-back cocktail lounge in the front and a high-energy dance club hidden beyond a secret door. In fact, its front room and patio are described as a “relaxed bricks-and-bookshelves setting” serving craft cocktails during happy hours and weekdays (www.sacurrent.com ). One of the bookcases even swings open speakeasy-style, revealing a back room drenched in black-and-gold décor. That nightclub space is packed with over-the-top flair – its back wall is studded with 1,000 glimmering gold skulls and a giant circular chandelier of 1,800 LED lights (www.sacurrent.com ). DJs perform atop a bar, backed by a 6-by-12-foot LED video display wall (www.sacurrent.com ). With this dramatic design, BLVD stands out as one of San Antonio’s more theatrical late-night spots, serving UTSA students and Northside residents alike. It operates as a long bar with multiple tap lines for beer and spirits, plus a handful of lounge seating and an outdoor patio for warmer evenings (www.sacurrent.com ).
Events and Programming
BLVD Bar & Lounge programs regular nightlife events and dance parties, especially on weekends. The venue typically hosts electronic DJ nights, club hits and specialty theme parties (themed throwbacks, disco nights, Latin dance nights, etc.), along with occasional live performances by local bands or DJs. Although no fixed concert schedule is posted by the venue, BLVD frequently appears in local event listings for special events and holiday parties. For example, past public events have included a Studio 54 disco-themed party and official “after-party” events supporting local festivals. Most Fridays and Saturdays feature cover charges and DJs spinning hits from top 40, hip-hop, Latin, and 80s/90s dance music. During the week and on Sunday evenings, the front lounge often offers a more chill vibe—think happy-hour specials on cocktails and beer, live acoustic music or sports on TV. Ticket prices and cover fees vary by event: typical cover charges range from around $5 up to $10–$15 for peak headlining nights. Smaller weekday events sometimes have no cover or a nominal fee. Advance tickets or RSVP links (via social media event pages) may be available for certain big events, but most evenings allow walk-in entry if you arrive early. Special nights (holiday weekends, big celebrations, etc.) may sell out, so popular shows can call for arriving before 10 PM. BLVD also hosts private parties and college group events by reservation. In general, expect a calendar of music and dance parties on weekends, with occasional student nights, karaoke or DJs on select weeknights, and themed club events announced a few weeks in advance.
Tickets and Booking
BLVD Bar & Lounge does not operate a traditional box office, so tickets and cover charges are usually handled at the door or through online event pages. For most events, visitors can simply buy tickets at the door upon arrival. However, for major or themed nights, the venue often lists tickets or RSVP on its social media or ticketing site. If you plan to attend a big event (like a holiday or guest DJ), look for the event announcement on local listings or inquire by phone. The front desk opens around showtime and usually sells tickets until capacity is reached. Phone inquiries can be made at the pub’s number (210-343-1552) shown on listings (www.sacurrent.com ). Prices vary by event: non-ticketed nights typically have a $5–$10 cover after 9 or 10 PM on weekends, while midweek shows might be free or only $5. Group packages or bottle service may be available for VIP areas on busiest nights, for which you’d contact the venue directly. If you’re unsure whether a particular night requires a ticket, check the venue’s social media feed. In summary: most events use door sales, with cover charges for bigger weekend parties. Arrive early for free or reduced cover, or book tickets online via event pages for guaranteed entry to sold-out shows.
Seating and Layout
The venue is roughly split into two main zones. The front portion is a lounge and bar area laid out with leather couches, high-top tables and bar seating overlooking the long drink rail. This area has a relaxed, exposed-brick-and-woodstacks décor and opens onto a covered patio with additional table seating for warmer weather (www.sacurrent.com ). The front lounge serves as a casual meeting spot and game-watching space, more subdued in volume. At the back of the building, behind a swinging bookshelf wall, lies the nightclub space. This inner room is mostly open floor – there are no fixed auditorium seats. Instead, the crowd stands or dances in front of the DJ booth (which sits atop the bar, under the LED chandelier) (www.sacurrent.com ). A small mezzanine or raised platform exists at one end for better views of the dance floor. Surrounding the central dance floor are bartops, bench seating, and a handful of reserved table areas for patrons with bottle service or VIP tickets. Acoustically, the front lounge has a calmer sound mix (suitable for conversation), while the rear dance room is loud and bass-heavy. The venue’s best views depend on your preference: for a front-row dance experience stand close to the DJ, or for a more social night grab a table on the patio or in the front lounge. Note that during busy nights, earlier arrivals get more choices of seating. There’s no formal seat numbering – most spaces are first-come general admission. A few higher-up booths near the bar can be reserved by calling ahead or purchasing VIP packages.
Getting There and Parking
BLVD Bar & Lounge is located in the UTSA Boulevard shopping plaza on the North Side of San Antonio, just off Interstate 10. Its exact address is 5138 UTSA Boulevard (planned off Exit 569A from I-10, or via Vance Jackson Road at Loop 1604) (www.sacurrent.com ) (myelisting.com ). If driving, follow I-10 West to the UTSA exit and head south on UTSA Boulevard, or use Loop 1604 to Vance Jackson Road and merge onto UTSA Boulevard southbound (myelisting.com ). Ample free parking is available in the large shared lot in front of The Plaza at UTSA (the small strip mall where BLVD resides). Parking is first-come; on busy weekend nights the lot can fill, but there’s usually overflow parking along UTSA Boulevard and side streets. There is no valet service. Rideshare drop-off areas are available at the building entrance, and taxis or ride-share vehicles can pull into the lot. Public transit riders can take VIA buses that stop nearby. Several VIA routes (including #501, #603, #604 and #93) serve the UTSA Boulevard corridor (moovitapp.com ), with stops within a few blocks of the venue. UTSA University campus shuttles do not run at night, so bus or car are the usual options. The club’s proximity to main roads means it’s easy to reach by car or rideshare; for example, it’s about a 20-minute drive ($15–$20 by taxi/Uber) from downtown San Antonio. Late-night public transit is limited, so plan your ride home or grab an Uber after 2 AM when the venue closes. For out-of-town guests, highway signs clearly mark the “UTSA Blvd” exit from I-10. (For reference, one leasing site notes it as “located at UTSA exit off I-10 or Vance Jackson off 1604]” ([myelisting.com ).)
Inside the Venue
Upon arrival you’ll enter through the main front doors into the lounge. Expect standard club security: staff will check IDs (21+ only, showing a valid photo ID is mandatory) and may pat down or inspect bags, so plan accordingly. The atmosphere inside is darkly lit but stylish – polished concrete floors, exposed brick walls and modern furnishings. The front bar serves a full range of craft cocktails, bottled beer, and local draft brews (www.sacurrent.com ). Bartenders are known for well-shaken drinks and fun drink specials on weeknights. Light bar snacks or appetizers may be offered (flatbreads, sliders or chips/salsa) but this is primarily a drinking menu. No outside food or drink is permitted. Tables and booths in the front area are shared on a first-come basis, though VIP reservations can secure a table or bottle service area in the back. Restrooms (men’s and women’s) are located on the main level; look for the signs near the rear lounge. There is no coat check (San Antonio’s mild winters make it unnecessary). Mobile phone use and photography are allowed for personal use, though professional cameras or tripods are not. Smoking is not permitted indoors (Texas law prohibits indoor smoking), but there are designated outdoor smoking areas. The energy builds as the night goes on – late-night DJs light up the dance floor with music and strobe/LED lighting, while the front lounge stays a bit more chill. The club typically turns into a party around 10 PM on weekends. Around midnight, expect peak crowds and volume; the party often continues until last call at 2:00 AM (the venue posts its hours as Tue–Fri 5 PM–2 AM, Sat 10 PM–2 AM and Sun 5 PM–Midnight (www.sacurrent.com )). Note that cell service is generally fine inside, and some patrons report free Wi-Fi (ask at the bar). Connectivity is mostly good, though large crowds can slow data. If you need help, the staff at the host stand can assist with directions inside or info on drink orders. Overall, the vibe inside is lively and inclusive – people come to socialize, dance, and drink in a modern, eye-catching setting.
Nearby Amenities
Since BLVD sits in a small shopping plaza, dining and hotel options right next door are limited. However, there are some quick-eats at the plaza itself: a Subway sandwich shop and a Sushi Seven roll restaurant share the strip, as does a “Bodega” Latin grocery/store-cafe and a bubble-tea shop (myelisting.com ). These are handy for takeout snacks or a casual bite before a night out. Just across the street or a block away you’ll also find a Donut shop and other small retailers in the strip. For more substantial dining, the north I-10/UTSA Blvd corridor has chain restaurants and fast-casual eateries. For example, an IHOP (pancakes/diner) and a gas station deli lie within a few minutes’ drive. About 0.3 miles north on UTSA Blvd is Chicken N Pickle (5215 UTSA Blvd) (www.sacurrent.com ) – a sports-themed bar/restaurant with ping-pong and pickleball courts that serves casual American fare. It’s a good spot for groups or late bites. In the greater area (a few miles north) are some larger shopping-and-dining centers: The Rim and La Cantera areas on Loop 1604 boast many restaurants (Tex-Mex, grill, upscale) and are roughly 10–15 minutes away. As for hotels, there aren’t any right above UTSA Blvd, but chain hotels are available a few miles out. The nearest hotels include mid-range chains along I-10 and Loop 1604: e.g. Holiday Inn or La Quinta near Loop 1604 west of UTSA, or the JW Marriott and Westin resorts at The Rim to the north. Downtown San Antonio hotels (about 20 minutes south) include big-name brands. If staying nearby, the area around Medical Center (near Loop 410) has economy and business-class hotels. In summary, plan to dine at quick-serve spots around campus or drive a couple of miles to bigger plazas. For pre-show dinner, many diners or Tex-Mex joints on the north side (e.g. Clay’s Cafe, Chinaberry or local BBQ spots) are also within a 5–10 minute drive. After hours, taxis or late-night buses can take you to the nearest 24-hour restaurants or back to a hotel if needed.
What Makes This Venue Special
BLVD Bar & Lounge has carved out a niche in San Antonio for its spectacular décor and dual personality. The most unique feature is the hidden club room: a bookshelf in the lounge literally swings open like a secret door to reveal a gilded nightspot (www.sacurrent.com ) (www.sacurrent.com ). No other local club boasts wall-to-wall gold skulls or a chandelier of LED lights as BLVD does. Patrons often rave that the club looks like something out of a movie – dramatic, lavish, and a little bit gothic. This dramatic design is one reason BLVD attracts younger crowds and college students; it’s an Instagrammable venue with weird eye-candy at every turn. Its cultural significance lies in bringing a high-energy dance atmosphere to the UTSA/Northside area – a part of town that previously had few late-night options beyond bars. BLVD answers that gap by offering a true nightclub experience (live DJs, dance floor, themed parties) in North San Antonio. Locals also note the attentive service and creative cocktails as highlights – the bartenders mix fun drinks with local craft ingredients, and the venue frequently stocks craft beers on tap. Over the years, many Austin and San Antonio DJs have played here, and the club has been an after-party destination for city festivals and student events. By combining a relaxed lounge vibe (for game-watching or casual hangouts) with an all-out dance club, BLVD appeals to both date-night groups and party crowds. In essence, what sets it apart is its theatrical concept and size: BLVD is a full-blown nightclub placed inside a suburban bar, complete with all the trappings of a city club (high-tech sound/light system, VIP areas, bottle service) despite being in a strip mall. This blend of luxury and local neighborhood feel makes BLVD a standout in San Antonio’s bar scene.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility: BLVD is wheelchair-accessible on the main level. The parking lot and entrance are flat, and the lounge area is spacious enough to navigate with a wheelchair. Restrooms have at least one handicap-access stall. (Note: the secret club room is on the same level and also accessible.) What to Bring: Always carry a photo ID (U.S. driver’s license, state ID or passport) – ID checks are strictly enforced at the door. Cash is handy: some smaller bars may prefer $ (though credit cards are accepted at the bar). Leave large purses or backpacks at home if possible; most clubs have a “no large bag” policy for security. Allowed Items: Personal cameras for casual photos are fine, but professional cameras and flashes are typically not. No outside food or drink, weapons, or illegal substances – disallowed items are confiscated. The club has a coat check only in winter months by request, otherwise no coat storage. Dress Code: The dress code is upscale-casual. Sharply casual attire – jeans and a nice shirt – is perfect. Women often wear dresses or tops and heels; men usually wear collared shirts or smart t-shirts. Avoid athletic wear (no sports jerseys or gym clothes after dark). Flip-flops or sandals are discouraged, though not strictly banned in the lounge. Essentially, people tend to dress to impress at the club side. Noise and Atmosphere: Expect loud music in the club section. If you prefer to talk, stay in the front lounge area or patio until late in the night. The club’s main room is usually at near-peak volume from 10 PM on. If loud environments are an issue, plan earplugs or stay in back. Age Restrictions: Regular nights are 21+. Occasionally the venue hosts special evenings that allow 18+ early entry (typically advertised), but as a rule assume 21+. Phone Coverage: Cell phone service is generally good inside. In addition, BLVD usually offers free guest Wi-Fi (ask the bartender for the password). Peak Times: The busiest nights are Friday and Saturday. The line often starts forming around 10 PM. Arriving before 10:30 can avoid a long wait. Common Mistakes: Don’t assume you can skip the line – there’s a cover even if online RSVPs sold out. ID/age checks are strict – underage or fake IDs will be turned away. Neighborhood Safety: The area is generally safe but be alert when leaving at 2 AM. Parking lots should be lit; stick with friends. Insider Tips: Call first if you have a large group or plan for bottle service. Sign up for email/sms or follow local event listings to catch special nights. Order at the bar early in the night to avoid the 11 PM rush. If you sit on the patio, it’s cooler and often features a small game table (like Connect Four) for fun. For those visiting during UTSA events, check if BLVD hosts a “Game Day party” or after-game specials. Finally, tipping bartenders generously and staying polite guarantees great service – staff here are known to reward friendly patrons.
What is the address and phone number of BLVD Bar & Lounge?
BLVD Bar & Lounge is located at 5138 UTSA Boulevard in San Antonio, TX 78249 (www.sacurrent.com ). This is just south of I-10 on the UTSA BLVD exit. Their listed phone number is (210) 343-1552 (www.sacurrent.com ). Use a GPS or mapping app for directions, or follow the UTSA Blvd exit signs as noted.
What kind of events does BLVD Bar & Lounge host?
BLVD hosts a variety of nightlife events. On weekends you’ll find dance parties and club nights with live DJs playing top 40, hip-hop, electronic and Latin music. Special themed events (retro parties, holiday events, college nights) are common. They also do occasional live band or karaoke nights on slower evenings. The lineup changes weekly – check their event listings or social media for current shows. Cover charges apply on most Friday/Saturday nights, but the music ranges so there’s something for both college crowds and casual mixers.
How do I buy tickets for an event at BLVD Bar & Lounge?
Most tickets or cover fees are handled at the door. For large or special events (guest DJs, theme nights) the venue may list advance tickets online. If available, you can purchase tickets via their official event pages (often posted on social media or a local ticket site) prior to the show. Otherwise, you can usually just pay at the door. Cover charges (typically $5–$15) start in the late evening. To be safe, arrive early or phone (210) 343-1552 to ask about reservation or pre-sales if you want to guarantee entry on a busy night (www.sacurrent.com ).
Where are the best places to sit or stand inside BLVD Bar & Lounge?
The “best” spot depends on your vibe. If you want to dance near the DJ, head toward the back dance floor (just behind the bar) where the music is loudest. For socializing or watching sports, the front lounge and patio have tables and TVs and a more relaxed atmosphere (www.sacurrent.com ). When the club side is hot, you can still chat in the front bar that overlooks the dance area. A raised platform at one end also gives a good view of the room. Tables along the perimeter are good for groups, but all seating is first-come general admission unless you reserve VIP. Simply put: front for hanging out, back for dancing.
Is there a seating plan or VIP section in BLVD Bar & Lounge?
BLVD does not have formally assigned seats – it’s mostly open floor. However, there are some elevated or roped-off areas for VIP guests and bottle service. You can call ahead to reserve a table or buy a VIP package if you arrive as a group on a busy night. Otherwise, seating is walk-in: lounge chairs and patio tables in front are open to all, and benches by the dance floor can be occupied first-come. In general, expect a nightclub style layout: general admission for most and a few reserved table areas by request.
What are the parking options and costs at BLVD Bar & Lounge?
Parking at BLVD is very convenient and free. The lounge shares a large parking lot with the shopping plaza at 5138 UTSA Blvd. There is no valet; just park in the lot and walk to the entrance. On busy nights the lot may get full, but there is street parking on UTSA Boulevard and nearby side streets if needed. In short: ample municipal-style parking with no charge (watch for any posted time limits, but generally overnight parking is fine when you’re inside the club). If you do valet or garages nearby from other businesses, those would be independent – otherwise the main lot suffices.
Which public transportation serves BLVD Bar & Lounge?
Several VIA bus routes run near BLVD. In particular, routes 501, 603, 604, and 93 stop along UTSA Blvd within a short walk (moovitapp.com ). For example, the #501 UTSA Shuttle/Loop 1604 run stops at the UTSA Blvd exit. Check the latest VIA schedules or a transit app for pick-up times. Note that evening service is less frequent, so plan ahead or have an alternate ride home after late events. There is no direct light rail; bus is the main public transit option.
Are there rideshare or taxi drop-offs near BLVD Bar & Lounge?
Yes, Lyft and Uber (and local taxis) can easily drop you off right at the venue’s entrance. The plaza has a lane by the front doors where cars can pull up briefly. For safety, it’s best to be dropped off in the lot right in front of the club. When leaving late at night, rideshare pickup lanes form in the same lot—just walk out to the parking area and look for pick-up zones or a line of cars. Rideshare apps work fine here; signal that your destination is BLVD and the driver will head toward UTSA Boulevard.
Is BLVD Bar & Lounge wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The main entrance to BLVD is on ground level with no steps, and there is adequate space for wheelchair access inside. The front lounge and club floor are on the same level. At least one handicapped-accessible restroom is available on the main floor. (Do note that the secret club room has slightly narrower spaces away from the bar, but overall the venue is ADA-compliant.) For any accessibility needs, patrons can ask staff to assist upon arrival.
What is the usual cover charge or ticket price at BLVD Bar & Lounge?
Cover charges vary by event. On big weekend nights (Fri/Sat), BLVD typically charges around $5–$10 at the door after 10 PM. Special shows or guest DJs may raise it to $15. Weekday events often have little to no cover (sometimes just $3–$5) if any. The cover is usually paid upon entry. If you’re attending a themed night or industry party, the event host may offer discounted early-entry or presale tickets via social media. In any case, it’s a small fee – often comparable to other local nightclubs.
What is the dress code at BLVD Bar & Lounge?
The dress code is upscale-casual. Patrons generally wear nice jeans, button-down shirts, casual dresses or stylish tops. Avoid gym wear, tank tops or flip-flops if you want to ensure entry to the club side. Many women wear heels or dressy boots, and men often wear sneakers or dress shoes with a collared shirt. There is no tie or formal requirement – think of it as a nicer-than-casual restaurant tone. If in doubt, err on the side of being more dressed up rather than too casual. During theme nights, some guests may dress specifically for the event (e.g. disco attire). Otherwise, just look sharp and you’ll fit right in.
Are there age restrictions or an ID policy for entry?
Yes – BLVD is an adult venue. The standard age limit is 21+, and you will need to present valid photo ID (driver’s license, state ID or passport) to enter. Staff check IDs at the door every night. Occasionally, BLVD hosts special events that allow 18+ entry (often advertised in advance if so), but unless otherwise noted assume 21+. Minors are generally not allowed simply because of the nightclub atmosphere and drink focus. If someone under 21 does enter illegally, they risk being immediately asked to leave.
Can I bring a guest or apply for VIP/bottle service in advance?
Yes – BLVD accommodates larger party reservations and VIP packages. If you have a group or want a table/service area, call ahead or message the club’s events desk before your night out. They’ll arrange a table and bottle service (which includes mixers and mixers). There is no formal guest list sign-up (the door staff cannot waive covers just on its own), so reservations are the best way to secure entry for a group on a sold-out night. Also, some weekends the club puts tables on hold after a deposit. In short: for VIP service, book early with management.
Does BLVD Bar & Lounge offer food or cater to diners?
BLVD is primarily a bar and club, so its food offerings are limited. It may serve bar snacks (like chips, pretzels or flatbreads) on busy nights, but it does not have a full kitchen menu. If you need dinner before your night out, plan to eat offsite. Several quick-eat spots are nearby (Subway, sushi, etc. (myelisting.com )), or use food delivery. The focus in-house is on drinks – choose your beer or cocktail at the bar. There is no formal restaurant dining area; all tables are casual lounge seating, not table service meals. For a proper meal, we recommend eating before arriving at BLVD.
What payment methods does BLVD Bar & Lounge accept?
BLVD accepts both cash and major credit/debit cards at the bar. Most customers pay by card nowadays. However, it’s a good idea to keep some cash on hand for tips and for cover charges (in case of tight card registers). ATMs can sometimes be found in the mall next door, but it’s best not to rely on unknown ATMs late at night. Tipping bartenders and servers in cash is common practice in San Antonio bars.
Is smoking allowed inside BLVD Bar & Lounge?
No, Texas law prohibits indoor smoking in bars and nightclubs. All smoking must take place outside. BLVD provides a designated smoking area just outside the main entrance (often under the patio cover). Expect people to gather in the adjacent outdoor patio or parking area to smoke. Vapor/e-cigarettes are also treated as smoking. If you do smoke, plan to step outside, but be mindful of neighbors. Personnel occasionally enforce distance from the entrance for smokers.
Are there any notable venue-specific rules at BLVD Bar & Lounge?
Aside from standard club rules, BLVD does not have unusual restrictions. No outside drinks or cameras with large lenses. They discourage wandering behind the bar or stage area. Also, many patrons note that there is no re-entry once you leave; if you exit, plan to buy cover again. They usually allow patrons to hold tickets for a short time if scion, but once you step out you’ll pay again. Do not sneak in alcohol. The staff are very clear you must show ID every time you enter. Items like selfie-sticks or large glass containers are likely banned – this is common club policy. If you have a question (e.g. about a coat or gift.), just ask the door staff. Overall, the rules are typical for a nightclub: ID check, bag check, and respectful behavior are expected.
