The San Antonio Riverwalk is a great place to take a break from the Texas heat and enjoy fine dining, your favorite beverage and fun time.
The San Antonio River
The San Antonio River runs right through the heart of the Texas City. Many years ago, the enlightened city leaders preserved the area along the river. By adding additional channels and branches the river now runs in a complete loop in the downtown area.
The main tourist area is in a section called Riverbend, or the South Bank, with dozens of restaurants flanking both sides of the river. The river is in a controlled channel, where the water is only three to four feet deep.
This is necessary, as the walkways lining both sides of the river have no guard rails in this area, and many people do end up in the river from unwise choices. It is best to sensible and dry.
The walkway that leads to the east and north is less crowded and is perfect for strolling or a morning jog amid the flowers, cactus and historic buildings of downtown.
The Riverbend area is fed by the main river through multiple floodgates. On the other side is the main river, which is up to 20 feet deep. The walkway continues for several miles, with less traffic and fewer hotels and restaurants.
The Riverboats on the San Antonio Riverwalk
One of the main tourist attractions are the boats powering around the tourist area. The narrated cruises bring alive the history of San Antonio, and provides a benchmark for finding the way around the Riverwalk.
Prices for the 30 minute trip are $7.75, with lower prices for matinee and seniors. The trip starts near Rivercenter, a major downtown mall, and passes by the major sites, ably explained by the driver. Waterfalls cascade along the path in several areas.
Shopping and Dining on the Riverwalk
Shopping is available at a few stores on the South Bank, but the Riverwalk also leads to Rivercenter, with a huge variety of stores, including Dillard’s. There are a number of restaurants and a food court in Rivercenter as well.
Almost every one of the dozens of restaurants lining the Riverwalk has an outdoor seating area amid the heavy foot traffic of the passersby. Strollers and diners peacefully coexist in the hustle-bustle of an evening in just about any time of year.
Though many of the restaurants highlight the local cuisine, heavily accented in Tex-Mex cooking, there are Scottish bars, Barbeque, Italian and Seafood favorites too.
Visiting the Riverwalk Area
The area is immaculately kept, with no graffiti or trash visible. Visitor information is on hand to answer questions, and police presence is obvious but low-key ensuring a good time and family friendly atmosphere.
