Tower Life Building
A historic Art Deco skyscraper in San Antonio, undergoing transformation into apartments, known for its striking facade and cinematic cameos.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Best for architectural appreciation
Tower Life Building
Best Time
Best for architectural appreciation
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A historic Art Deco skyscraper in San Antonio, undergoing transformation into apartments, known for its striking facade and cinematic cameos.
"San Antonio’s Tower Life Building is so lovely!! This landmark is iconic for the area."
📸 Admire from Afar
The building is currently under renovation, so exterior views are best.
👻 Ghostbusters Connection
This landmark's facade was featured in the original Ghostbusters film!
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Art Deco Facade
Admire the intricate details and imposing presence of this 1929 architectural gem.
Gargoyle Details
Spot the unique and sometimes eerie gargoyles adorning the building's exterior.
River Walk Views
Enjoy picturesque views of the building from the scenic San Antonio River Walk.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
A Landmark Reimagined
Exterior Views & History
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
📸 Admire from Afar
The building is currently under renovation, so exterior views are best.
👻 Ghostbusters Connection
This landmark's facade was featured in the original Ghostbusters film!
🚶♀️ River Walk Stroll
Enjoy great photo ops from the San Antonio River Walk.
🧐 Look for Gargoyles
The building's exterior features unique and creepy gargoyles.
Tips
from all over the internet
📸 Admire from Afar
The building is currently under renovation, so exterior views are best.
👻 Ghostbusters Connection
This landmark's facade was featured in the original Ghostbusters film!
🚶♀️ River Walk Stroll
Enjoy great photo ops from the San Antonio River Walk.
🧐 Look for Gargoyles
The building's exterior features unique and creepy gargoyles.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise the Tower Life Building's iconic Art Deco architecture and its prominent location on the San Antonio River Walk. Its historical significance and unique gargoyle details are frequently highlighted. Some reviews note disappointment with the building not being lit at night, especially given its landmark status.
"We always enjoy cycling through downtown San Antonio to Southtown and parts of the Riverwalk."
Legalese
"Who you gonna call???👻
Found out the gargoyles and facade of this Movie Landmark was used in the original Ghostbusters film. 🎞️ So much movie history in this town from the river to the sky."
Modern Revolution
"Great architecture. Haven’t been inside, but it’s really cool on the exterior"
Holly Russ
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Tower Life Building is located in downtown San Antonio, easily accessible by car, ride-sharing services, or public transport. It's a prominent landmark visible from many downtown streets and the River Walk.
Several parking garages and street parking options are available in the downtown San Antonio area near the Tower Life Building. Consider parking garages for longer stays.
Yes, if you are in the downtown San Antonio area or along the River Walk, the Tower Life Building is easily walkable and a great destination to include in your city exploration.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The Tower Life Building is currently undergoing a major renovation to convert it into apartment units. Public access to the interior is not available during this construction period.
Construction began in March 2025, with completion expected in late 2026. This includes planned retail and dining spaces on the ground floor and River Walk level.
As the building is under renovation, there are no public operating hours. Once reopened, the retail and dining spaces will have their own hours.
Currently, there is no admission fee as the building is not open to the public. Future access to retail and dining areas will likely not require an admission fee.
📸 📸 Photography
The San Antonio River Walk offers excellent vantage points for photographing the Tower Life Building's exterior. Street-level views from downtown streets also provide great perspectives.
While the building is under renovation, it may not be consistently lit at night. Once reopened, the exterior lighting is expected to enhance its nighttime appearance. [^Review]
Don't miss the intricate Art Deco design and the unique gargoyles that adorn the building's facade. These details make for striking close-up shots.
🎫 🏛️ History & Architecture
Built in 1929, the Tower Life Building is a 31-story Art Deco landmark that was once the headquarters for the Tower Life Insurance Company. It's a significant piece of San Antonio's architectural heritage. 
The building is a prime example of Art Deco architecture, characterized by its geometric patterns, decorative elements, and vertical emphasis.
Yes, the Tower Life Building's facade was used as a filming location in the original Ghostbusters movie, adding to its cinematic appeal.
The gargoyles are a distinctive architectural feature of the Tower Life Building, adding to its unique and somewhat imposing character. They are a popular detail for visitors to spot.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Combine a visit with a stroll along the San Antonio River Walk, which is easily accessible and offers plenty of space for kids to move around. The building's connection to the Ghostbusters movie can also be a fun talking point to engage younger visitors.
📸 Architecture Enthusiasts
Take time to examine the detailed gargoyles and facade ornamentation up close from street level or the River Walk. These elements showcase the craftsmanship of the era. Keep an eye out for its future reopening, as the planned retail and dining spaces on the lower levels will offer new ways to experience this landmark.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A New Chapter: Renovation and Future
Beyond the residential units, the renovation plans include revitalizing the ground floor and River Walk level to feature new retail and dining spaces. This will re-establish the building as a vibrant hub within downtown San Antonio, offering new amenities for both residents and visitors. The project is a testament to the city's commitment to preserving its historic architecture while fostering urban development.
While the building is currently inaccessible due to construction, its exterior remains a captivating sight. The ongoing work signifies an exciting future for this beloved San Antonio landmark, promising a blend of historic charm and contemporary functionality.
Architectural Marvel: Art Deco and Details
A particularly captivating feature of the Tower Life Building is its collection of gargoyles and decorative facade elements. These intricate carvings add a layer of unique character and a touch of the dramatic to the structure. Visitors often marvel at the craftsmanship and the slightly eerie charm these figures impart.
Even from the exterior, the architectural grandeur of the Tower Life Building is undeniable. Its historical significance is further cemented by its appearance in popular culture, notably as a filming location in the original Ghostbusters movie, adding a layer of cinematic nostalgia for many visitors.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit