Who runs Alicia Trevino Lopez Senior Center and what it offers
Alicia Trevino Lopez Senior Center is a public facility run by the City of San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department. It serves older adults in the south side of San Antonio and offers programs in fitness, arts, education, social activities, and meal services. The center is named after Alicia Trevino Lopez, a longtime San Antonio community advocate.
The center operates as a gathering place rather than a residential facility. Most programs run during daytime hours, and many are low-cost or free. You do not need to live in a particular neighborhood to use the center, though some programs may prioritize San Antonio residents.
Key Takeaways
- Alicia Trevino Lopez Senior Center is located on the south side of San Antonio and run by the city's Parks and Recreation Department.
- The center offers fitness classes, art programs, educational workshops, social events, and congregate meals at low or no cost.
- You can visit in person or call ahead to ask about specific programs, class schedules, and any fees that may explore.
- Many programs do not require advance registration, though some classes fill up and may have a waiting list.
- The center is open to all San Antonio older adults regardless of income or background.
Location, hours, and how to contact the center
Alicia Trevino Lopez Senior Center is located at 3203 Culebra Road in San Antonio, Texas. The center's hours vary by program and season, so calling ahead is the fastest way to confirm when a specific activity runs. You can reach the center through the San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department main line or by visiting in person during business hours.
If you need transportation to the center, ask staff about local senior transportation services. San Antonio offers several options for older adults who cannot drive, including VIA Senior Services and community shuttle programs. Staff at the center can point you toward the right service for your situation.
Types of programs and activities available
The center runs fitness and wellness programs including exercise classes, walking groups, and health screenings. These programs are designed for varying fitness levels, so you do not need prior experience to join. Classes often meet multiple times per week.
Arts and crafts programs include painting, pottery, jewelry making, and other hands-on activities. Educational workshops cover topics like technology, financial planning, and health management. Social activities include game days, movie screenings, dances, and holiday celebrations.
The center also serves congregate meals — hot lunches prepared on-site where you can eat with other participants. Meal programs typically run on weekdays and may be free or very low-cost depending on your income. Meals are often a way to meet other people in your community as much as to eat.
Costs and what to bring on your first visit
Most programs at Alicia Trevino Lopez Senior Center are free or cost between one and five dollars per class or activity. Congregate meals may be free or cost a few dollars, depending on your household income. Some programs may ask for a small donation rather than a set fee.
On your first visit, bring a photo ID and proof of age (a driver's license or birth certificate works). If you plan to use meal services, you may be asked about your income to determine if you may have access to for a free or reduced meal. This information is kept confidential and used only to set your meal cost.
Wear comfortable clothes and shoes for fitness classes. Bring water and any medications you take regularly. If you have a health condition that affects which activities you can do, mention it to staff when you arrive — they can suggest alternatives or modifications.
How to find out about new programs and register
The San Antonio Parks and Recreation Department posts program schedules on its website and updates them seasonally. You can also call the center directly to ask what is running this month. Staff can tell you which classes have openings and which have waiting lists.
Registration methods vary by program. Some activities are drop-in, meaning you just show up. Others require you to sign up in advance, either in person at the center or by phone. A few popular classes may fill up weeks ahead, so calling early gives you a better chance of getting a spot.
If a class you want is full, ask to be added to a waiting list. Spots often open up as people's schedules change, and the center will contact you when one becomes available.
Transportation and accessibility
Alicia Trevino Lopez Senior Center is accessible to people with mobility challenges. The building has wheelchair ramps, accessible restrooms, and elevators. Parking is available on-site.
If you cannot drive, VIA Senior Services offers reduced-fare bus passes and door-to-door transportation for older adults in San Antonio. You can also ask the center about community shuttle services that pick up from nearby neighborhoods. Some programs at the center may even arrange group transportation for field trips or special events.
What to do if you have questions about a specific program
Call the center directly and ask to speak with a staff member who runs the program you are interested in. They can tell you exactly what to expect, what to bring, whether you need to register ahead of time, and what the cost is. Staff are usually available during business hours and can answer questions over the phone or in person.
If you are new to senior centers and unsure where to start, tell staff what you enjoy doing — whether that is exercise, art, socializing, or learning something new. They can recommend programs that match your interests and help you get connected on your first day.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to be a San Antonio resident to use the center?
Most programs at the center are open to all older adults in the San Antonio area. Some programs may prioritize city residents, but staff can tell you which ones when you call. It never hurts to ask about a program you are interested in.
What if I cannot afford the program fees?
Most activities are very low-cost or free. If cost is a barrier, mention it to staff — they may know about scholarships, sliding-scale fees, or free programs that match what you want to do. The center's goal is to serve older adults regardless of income.
Can I drop in to a class without registering ahead of time?
Many classes are drop-in, but some require advance registration. Call the center or ask staff in person which programs accept walk-ins and which need you to sign up first. This information changes by season and by program.
Is there a meal program if I cannot cook at home?
Yes. The center serves congregate meals on weekdays, and you eat with other participants. Meals are low-cost or free depending on your income. You can also ask staff about Meals on Wheels or other home delivery programs if you prefer to eat at home.
What if I have a health condition that limits what I can do?
Tell staff about your condition when you arrive. Fitness instructors can suggest modifications to exercises, and program leaders can help you find activities that work for you. The center serves people at all ability levels.