One level down from the main streets, the San Antonio Riverwalk provides a peaceful and pleasing way to navigate the city. This functional attraction is connected to the history and culture of San Antonio, Texas, enabling residents and visitors to have unique and profound experiences with each.
From Flood Bypass Channel to Top Texas Attraction
A flood in 1921 began the process to better control the San Antonio river with the creation of a flood bypass channel. However, it wasn’t until the San Antonio River Beautification Project in 1938 that the transformation of the space into the Riverwalk truly began. In 1941, the walkways, stairways to street level, footbridge, rock walls lining banks, and Arneson River Theater were completed.
Since the early 1950’s, tourists and locals alike have strolled along the transformed river path to enjoy the combined urban and natural wonders. Over the following decades, various other segments of the Roverwalk were further developed and completed, with new sections seeing the installation of everything from Civic Center Plaza to the Rainforest Café. Much of the history of this transformation is documented along the Riverwalk path.
Featuring self-guided walking or bike tour of the riverside paths, the Riverwalk is lined with cypress trees, shops, museums, restaurants and various features, enabling audiences to experience the past and present of the city.
Features, Landmarks and Tours
Various maps detail the features and attractions located all along the Riverwalk. They range from monuments to restaurants, allowing audiences to connect with the culture of the city while also enabling incredible economic opportunities for stakeholders. There are countless things to do all along the Riverwalk.
Riverboats tours and sightseeing trips of downtown San Antonio are just a few of the means of engagement along the Riverwalk. Additionally, the popularity of the Riverwalk has enabled the creation of features like the River Walk Public Art Garden, which includes free-standing sculptures and wall-mounted art installations. It also provides access to cultural institutations like the San Antonio Zoo, the Buckhorn Saloon and Museum, the Tower of the Americas and many more.
Events ranging from concerts to festivals take place across the Riverwalk all year long, attracting crowds of various types and sizes. During Fiesta San Antonio, the River Parade features flowery floats that float down the river. Additionally, 100,000 Christmas lights are turned on each year the day after Thanksgiving to kick off the Ford Holiday River Parade. There are various engagement opportunities available along the Riverwalk all year long.
Mentioned as the number one attraction in Texas as well as one of the best things to do in San Antonio, countless maps and guides to the city feature and highlight happenings along the San Antonio Riverwalk, showcasing what kind of physical and economic impact a landmark can have across a city, region and beyond.
A Uniquely Texas Experience
Mentioned as a uniquely Texas experience as well as the crown jewel of the city, the San Antonio Riverwalk has inspired similar projects in other cities. A hub of activity for countless reasons at different times of the year, the landmark is set to further evolve as the community and city does, ensuring it will always be an attraction to residents and visitors.
