Absolutely! The Riverwalk in San Antonio is like the ultimate go-to for tourists – it’s THE spot. Why? Well, it’s got everything! The Alamo, old-school Tex-Mex joints, top-notch museums, the San Fernando Cathedral, cool outdoor art, and endless biking and hiking trails. It’s a tourist magnet, no doubt.
But here’s the real deal – amidst all the touristy stuff, there are some seriously cool things to dive into on the Riverwalk.
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Top 3 Things To Do On The Riverwalk
Continue reading for a more extensive list of all 27 incredible activities you can enjoy on and around the Riverwalk. If you’re short on time, check out the top 3 things to do:
- Take a GoRIO River Cruise: Hop on one of those floating river barges with a knowledgeable guide who’ll shower you with facts about Alamo city.
- Dine at a Riverwalk restaurant: Caution! Not all Riverwalk restaurants are winners. To avoid the tourist traps, discover the absolute best Riverwalk restaurants and the top-notch Tex-Mex options.
- Wander, shop, take it all in: You don’t have to splurge to soak in the vibe! But if you’re eager to explore more of the wonders along this picturesque stretch of San Antonio, keep reading.
Sections Of The San Antonio Riverwalk
People adore the Riverwalk because it’s got a touch of Venice canals, just with that extra Texas flair. Fun fact: the first parade on the Riverwalk in 1936 was called “A Venetian Night”! Yep, really!
Now, there are three main parts of the Riverwalk: the Downtown Reach, Museum Reach, and Mission Reach.
- Downtown Reach: Think of this as the downtown loop – the classic San Antonio Riverwalk. Loads to do here! But heads up, it’s the busiest and can be a bit pricey. If you’ve only stuck to Downtown Reach, you’re missing out. There’s a whole lot more to explore!
- Museum Reach: A must-visit for any San Antonio Riverwalk enthusiast! Personally, it’s my favorite. It popped up in 2009, stretching 1.3 miles from Lexington Ave to the Pearl Brewery district. And guess what? You don’t have to hit up any museums (though you totally can!). Museum Reach is sprinkled with outdoor art like Carlos Cortés’s “The Grotto” and Donald Lipski’s “F.I.S.H.”
- Mission Reach: Ideal if you’re up for kayaking or biking along the San Antonio River. Covering 8 miles from downtown southward, it’s a vast and serene section – the quietest way to relish the Riverwalk. The hiking trail gives you views of 4 out of the 5 missions (with The Alamo being the 5th) along the Riverwalk.
For starters, here are a few insider tips for visiting the Riverwalk.
- Pick the Right Time to Go: Timing is everything! I’ve had pals disappointed by the Riverwalk, but when I inquire, they visited on a Saturday night. No wonder it felt cramped! To dodge the crowds, skip the weekends. I love weekday mornings (especially in the cool spring months) and December weeknights when the Riverwalk sparkles with holiday cheer.
- Hunt Down Top-Notch Eateries: Don’t wing it! Randomly picking a restaurant might lead to overpriced “meh” food. Check out this map of the best local Riverwalk restaurants or this guide to the top Tex Mex spots to ensure you get the best bang for your buck!
- Embrace the Touristy Vibes: Let’s face it – the Riverwalk is lively, a bit loud, and sure, it can get crowded. But guess what? It’s stunning! Overflowing with history and culture, that’s why millions flock to it each year. Embrace the touristy feel, and you’ll have a smoother ride. Cool?
A Quick (Fun!) History Lesson Of The Riverwalk
Let’s take a quick trip down memory lane to the roots of the Riverwalk! Back in the 1500s, a Spanish explorer first mentioned the San Antonio River – pretty cool, right? Over the centuries, people recognized its beauty and relied on its power as a water source for San Antonio’s Missions. That’s why today, biking along the river trail lets you explore all 5 missions near the water!
In more recent times, the Riverwalk wasn’t just born for leisure – it started as a flood management system in the 1900s. Yep, it’s a lifesaver! Without it, downtown San Antonio would be swimming. In 1921, a tragic flood took about 50 lives. In the late 1920s, Robert H. H. Hugman pitched the idea of riverfront shops, the city loved it, and with some flood gates, dams, and years of construction – voilà, the Riverwalk we know today!
(This is a simplified take on the Riverwalk’s fascinating history. Dive deeper if you’re into history, culture, engineering, and city planning!)
27 Things To Do On The Riverwalk
| No. | Activity |
| 1 | GoRio Boat Cruises |
| 2 | Eat Tex Mex on the Riverwalk |
| 3 | Take A Picture At The “Selena Bridge” |
| 4 | Visit The Alamo |
| 5 | Go Shopping At The Shops At Rivercenter |
| 6 | Visit the Briscoe Western Art Museum |
| 7 | Get A Scoop at Mr. Ice Cream |
| 8 | Grab Drinks at Esquire, The Oldest Bar On The Riverwalk |
| 9 | Head North To The Pearl District |
| 10 | Amerson River Theatre |
| 11 | La Villita Historic Village |
| 12 | Get Photos Of The Famous Casa Rio Umbrellas |
| 13 | Visit The Riverwalk During The Holidays! |
| 14 | Check Out The Historic Aztec Theatre |
| 15 | See The Grotto |
| 16 | Bike The Mission Trail |
| 17 | Enjoy Cocktails at Ácenar |
| 18 | Visit Museum Reach On The Riverwalk |
| 19 | Watch the Texas Cavaliers River Parade In April During Fiesta! |
| 20 | Love Lock Bridge |
| 21 | Visit A Spa On The Riverwalk |
| 22 | Stay In A Beautiful Hotel |
| 23 | Admire The Natural Beauty |
| 24 | Blue Star Arts Complex |
| 25 | Espada Aqueduct |
| 26 | Kayak In The River |
| 27 | People Watch And Enjoy The Energy! |
1. GoRio Boat Cruises
Absolutely! GoRioBoat Cruises are a blast, in my opinion. They’re more of a one-time adventure (not a repeat kind of thing), but for newcomers to San Antonio or those exploring with a small crew, it’s a delightful way to grasp the city’s basics and take in the entire Riverwalk without elbowing through crowds.
The guides are like walking encyclopedias of San Antonio knowledge, so you’ll end the trip with a head full of SA trivia. The narrated cruises on these quiet electric boats are a quick 35 minutes – short, sweet, and to the point, so no chance of getting bored!
Then there are the river barges that serve as transport. Grab a 1-day or a 3-day pass for swift, comfy navigation around the Riverwalk. It’s a smart move, especially if you’re bunking in a Riverwalk hotel and want speedy access to various spots.
2. Eat Tex Mex on the Riverwalk
Absolutely! San Antonio culture practically revolves around Tex Mex, so savoring some fantastic Tex Mex while strolling the Riverwalk is a must!
Now, let me be honest: a good chunk of the Tex Mex on the Riverwalk is, well, not great. Hate to say it, but after trying several, I’ve encountered watery salsa, overcooked steak, and tortillas straight from the grocery store. But fear not! There are a handful of seriously fantastic Tex-Mex spots hiding along the Riverwalk if you know where to peek. I’ve got you covered with this guide and map, pointing you to the cream of the crop.
Here’s to indulging in top-shelf margaritas, tableside guacamole, and mouthwatering fajitas, all with a scenic water view. Trust me, eating (good) Tex-Mex is one of the absolute best things to do on the Riverwalk.
3. Take A Picture At The “Selena Bridge”
If you’re checking out the Riverwalk in San Antonio, you absolutely can’t miss the iconic Selena Bridge. Selena Quintanilla fans already know the scoop – it’s the bridge featured in the romantic scene from the “Selena” movie, starring J. Lo.
Finding it is a breeze; just follow the crowd of people snapping photos and selfies. But if you want an exact address, it sits between N St Mary’s Street and Navarro St. Alternatively, look out for the Iron Cactus restaurant on the Riverwalk – the bridge is right by it.
Better yet, grab a bite at Iron Cactus and soak in the view of the Selena Bridge while enjoying your Tex Mex feast. Iron Cactus stands out as one of the top choices for Tex Mex on the Riverwalk, and its front patio offers the perfect vantage point for the Selena Bridge.
Read Also: Bunz Handcrafted Burgers
4. Visit The Alamo
Right by the Riverwalk, you’ve got the historic gem – The Alamo mission. Slotting in a visit to The Alamo during your time on the Riverwalk is a breeze.
Constructed by Roman Catholic missionaries in the 18th century, The Alamo is best known for the infamous Battle at the Alamo. General Santa Anna’s army claimed victory, taking down nearly all the occupants. It’s a gripping tale, and a visit to The Alamo is a must for any San Antonio visitor. (Psst, there are 4 other missions in San Antonio that are worth checking out too!)
Quick tip: Touring The Alamo is entirely free, but you’ll need to snag a reservation for a timed entry.
5. Go Shopping At The Shops At Rivercenter
If you find yourself on the Riverwalk during a scorching August day and need a break from the heat, slip into Rivercenter Mall. It’s the perfect spot for some cool air and a bit of retail therapy!
Inside The Shops at Rivercenter, you’ll discover 100 retail stores, 14 restaurants, an IMAX theater, LegoLand Discovery Center, SeaLife, and did we mention – glorious AIR CONDITIONING! Trust me, when you’re dripping sweat on a 106-degree day, that mall AC feels like a slice of heaven.
6. Visit the Briscoe Western Art Museum
A mere street away from the Riverwalk sits the splendid Briscoe Museum in San Antonio! The Briscoe delves into the art and artifacts that played a pivotal role in shaping the West into what it is today.
General Admission won’t break the bank, and for locals, there are FREE days at certain times of the month. For more details, swing by their website.
7. Get A Scoop at Mr. Ice Cream
For a delightful escape from the crowds and a sugary pick-me-up, look no further than this retro ice cream parlor! They’ve got a plethora of flavors from the beloved Bluebell Ice Cream (a Texan favorite), along with tempting waffle cones, sundaes, and shakes.
8. Grab Drinks at Esquire, The Oldest Bar On The Riverwalk
Not only does Esquire boast the longest wooden bar top in the state of Texas (literally stretching the entire length of the bar!), but it also holds the title of the oldest bar on the Riverwalk. Opening its doors in 1933, it was a celebration of the end of prohibition.
Esquire exudes a dark, sultry, and moody ambiance. It’s perfect for an evening rendezvous, yet I find it oddly charming in the middle of the day – the dark, cool vibes make it stand out.
Their menu features a delightful array of classic cocktails such as the Moscow Mule, Old Fashioned, and a classic Pimm’s Cup. But the real gem is their happy hour! From 2-5 pm on Mon-Fri, indulge in $5 beers, $8 happy hour cocktails, and $9 glasses of wine.
9. Head North To The Pearl District
Did you know that the Pearl District is situated on the Riverwalk? It’s at the north of Museum Reach, away from the main stretch most people associate with the Riverwalk, offering a respite from the crowds.
The Pearl is a complete experience in itself. However, if you’re yearning to dine near the Riverwalk but away from the tourists, make sure to secure a reservation at Supper.
10. Amerson River Theatre
This historic theatre, nestled in the La Villita Arts Village, is a charming spot to catch a live performance on the Riverwalk.
Every weekend, the Fiesta Noche del Rio puts on an iconic cultural performance at the Amerson Theatre that’s an absolute must-see!
11. La Villita Historic Village
Listed on the National Registry of Historic Places, La Villita is an artisan village that initially served as San Antonio’s inaugural neighborhood! Yes, these quaint stone houses were home to European immigrants from Germany and France. Now, it’s transformed into a delightful art village near the Riverwalk.
Take a leisurely stroll through the plaza and courtyards, shop for artisan goods, and savor a meal at Little Rhein Prost Haus, paying homage to the German settlers, or at Guadalajara Grill.
A short walk from the water, La Villita is undeniably worth a visit! It’s one of my top recommendations for things to do on the Riverwalk in San Antonio.
12. Get Photos Of The Famous Casa Rio Umbrellas
Most online guides will nudge you towards eating at Casa Rio when exploring the Riverwalk. But, hey, I care about you, and I want you to get your money’s worth. Let me be straight with you: the food at Casa Rio is seriously underwhelming.
However, the iconic umbrellas outside Casa Rio are a different story. You’ve probably seen them in photos without realizing it! Practically every pamphlet or advertisement for San Antonio features a snapshot of these colorful umbrellas.
Swing by, snap a pic with the umbrellas, soak in the vibe, but my honest advice – give the food at Casa Rio a pass.
13. Visit The Riverwalk During The Holidays!
This is undeniably the most magical time of the year at the Riverwalk! It’s all aglow and twinkling, with holiday music filling the air over the water, and the river barges adorned in a sea of lights.
Keep your eyes peeled for special holiday events, parades, and performances. Honestly, it’s the one time of the year when I don’t mind the crowds on the Riverwalk because everyone is so holly-jolly and having a grand time.
If you’re yearning to embrace the holiday spirit, make a pit stop at the Riverwalk during December, sip on a special holiday cocktail, and bask in the festive vibes.
14. Check Out The Historic Aztec Theatre
Built in 1926, the Aztec Theatre was once THE movie theater destination in San Antonio. Today, it’s repurposed for a variety of concerts, shows, and entertainment. Conveniently, it’s situated right across the street from the Riverwalk.
15. See The Grotto
The Grotto, an art installation and artificial cave by Carlos Cortés, is a captivating attraction on the Riverwalk. Situated in the Museum Reach, the 1.3-mile stretch extending north of downtown, it’s a unique experience.
This 3-story sculpture is truly mesmerizing. Step inside and walk through the middle to immerse yourself in the waterfall experience, complete with sculpted stalactites and stalagmites!
While you might not spend more than about 10 minutes exploring it, The Grotto is a must-see on the San Antonio Riverwalk. It adds a delightful touch to your waterside stroll.
16. Bike The Mission Trail
If you’re on the lookout for active things to do on the Riverwalk and crave a bit of a challenge, biking the Mission Trail is a fantastic bucket-list item in San Antonio.
The Mission Reach of the trail spans about 8 miles south, offering hiking and biking trails along the water. Along this route, you’ll encounter 4 of the 5 San Antonio Missions (the 5th being the Alamo, situated at the Downtown Reach of the Riverwalk). While the missions aren’t precisely ON the water, they’re all within a very short walk from the water’s edge. After all, this river is what sustained these missions back in the day!
17. Enjoy Cocktails at Ácenar
If you want the best cocktails on the Riverwalk, check out Ácenar. They make awesome margaritas! This Mexican restaurant has a patio with river views. Plus, it’s a bit higher up, so you don’t have people walking super close to you.
And the good news? Ácenar has happy hour specials from 2-5 pm Sunday through Thursday!
18. Visit Museum Reach On The Riverwalk
Don’t miss out on the fun – explore beyond the downtown part of the Riverwalk and head to Museum Reach!
I took a while to discover this section because I thought it was just for people going to museums. But guess what? You don’t have to go inside any of the museums to enjoy Museum Reach! (Although, just so you know, there are some fantastic museums in San Antonio along this stretch that you might want to check out.)
19. Watch the Texas Cavaliers River Parade In April During Fiesta!
If you’re in San Antonio during Fiesta, don’t miss the Texas Cavaliers River Parade on the Riverwalk! It takes place every year in the third week of April.
This isn’t your usual parade down a street; it happens right on the San Antonio River! People gather along the edges of the Riverwalk and the bridges above, cheering for the bright colors, lively river barges, and exciting music during this two-hour extravaganza.
20. Love Lock Bridge
Like many cities, San Antonio has its own version of a lock bridge, and it’s a must-visit for those seeking memorable experiences on the Riverwalk – the Love Lock Bridge.
Situated near the Bexar County Marriage License Office, couples often head to the bridge right after officially tying the knot to “**lock in their love**” with a padlock on the bridge. It’s a beautiful spot to visit!
21. Visit A Spa On The Riverwalk
If you’re in need of some relaxation, there are a few excellent spas along the San Antonio Riverwalk. If tension has been creeping in, or you simply want to indulge in a facial or deluxe manicure, consider booking an appointment at Mokara Spa at the Omni, or the Spa at Hotel Contessa.
22. Stay In A Beautiful Hotel
If you’re keen on staying right on the Riverwalk in San Antonio, here are some great options:
- Thompson Hotel: A new luxury boutique hotel with cool restaurants, including a rooftop lounge and a poolside eatery.
- Hotel Havana: Originally opened in 1914 with a tropical feel, this Cuban-inspired hotel got a fresh start in 2010. It’s even listed in the National Register of Historic Places.
- Omni La Mansion Del Rio: Situated in the heart of the Riverwalk, this luxurious hotel from 1852 has a beautiful courtyard, exposed beams, and amazing river views.
23. Admire The Natural Beauty
It’s no surprise why they call the Riverwalk “The Venice of Texas.” With lovely arched bridges, flowing water, historic stonework, and native plants, this San Antonio gem is a natural beauty.
You can easily spend a couple of hours just strolling around the Riverwalk and taking in the sights.
24. Blue Star Arts Complex
This is the longest-standing art space in San Antonio, and it’s on the Riverwalk! It’s a bit of a 25-minute walk south from the Downtown Reach, right along the water to Blue Star.
When you get there, make sure to try some beers at Blue Star Brewing Co., one of the best craft breweries in San Antonio. Or, grab a bite of pizza at Stella Public House, a must-visit pizza place in San Antonio.
25. Espada Aqueduct
When was the last time you checked out an ancient irrigation system? This one dates back to 1731 and was constructed by the Spaniards at Mission Espada. It’s a remarkable engineering accomplishment! They skillfully directed the water to irrigate crops in the farmland.
The coolest part about this aqueduct? You can still see it today, 300 years later!
The Spanish settlers smartly realized that rainfall in what is now south Texas can be irregular, so they came up with this ingenious solution to manage water flow.
26. Kayak In The River
Kayaking on the water at the San Antonio Riverwalk is super fun, especially on a beautiful Texas day!
You can bring your non-motorized boats into designated areas (just remember, no kayaking in the downtown Reach – that’s for GoRio Cruises!).
Whether you’re up for a good workout or just want to relax on the water for a bit, kayaking on the river is one of the most unique and memorable things you can do at the Riverwalk.
27. People Watch And Enjoy The Energy!
Whether you really like it or not, the Riverwalk is always packed with people and energy. Where there’s a bunch of folks, you’re sure to find a few interesting characters.
If you’re in the mood to chill without spending a dime (there are lots of benches along the Riverwalk), or you feel like treating yourself to a margarita and some chips & queso at a Tex-Mex spot, just grab a seat and enjoy watching people for a few minutes. It’s surprisingly fun at the Riverwalk!
FAQs
What does the Riverwalk have?
The San Antonio Riverwalk offers a vibrant and scenic experience, featuring a network of walkways along the San Antonio River. It is adorned with a variety of restaurants, shops, and entertainment venues. Visitors can enjoy boat tours, explore historic sites, and appreciate the beautiful landscaping along the riverbanks.
Why do people visit the San Antonio Riverwalk?
People visit the San Antonio Riverwalk for its unique charm, cultural attractions, and lively atmosphere. The picturesque setting, coupled with a diverse range of dining options, shopping opportunities, and cultural events, make it a popular destination for tourists and locals alike. The Riverwalk provides a relaxed and enjoyable environment for leisurely strolls, boat rides, and social gatherings.
What is the most popular part of the San Antonio Riverwalk?
The most popular part of the San Antonio Riverwalk is often considered to be the section known as the “Paseo del Rio.” This area encompasses the central downtown stretch of the Riverwalk and is characterized by a bustling scene with numerous restaurants, bars, and shops. The iconic Rivercenter Mall, historic theaters, and landmarks like the Marriage Island also contribute to the popularity of this particular segment.
What city in Texas has the famous River Walk?
San Antonio, Texas, is renowned for its famous River Walk. The city’s River Walk is a major tourist attraction and a centerpiece of downtown San Antonio. The meandering paths along the San Antonio River showcase the city’s rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant hospitality, making it a must-visit destination in Texas.
I’m Nicholas Clark, the creative soul behind “San Antonio Vista.” I’ve been bringing the city to life with stories and insights, and I want you to be a part of it. At San Antonio Vista, we’re all about making your exploration a masterpiece. Join me in the journey at San Antonio Vista, where every visit tells a unique story!
